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Disappointing photos show what all-inclusive resorts look like in real life
Disappointing photos show what all-inclusive resorts look like in real life
Marissa PerinoMar 12, 2019, 19:19 IST
Steve Bennett / flickr
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All-inclusive resorts started opening in the 1950s and promise accommodations and meals for a flat rate.
While some resorts do provide complimentary luxury services, others can include crowded buffets, long wait lines, and frustrating hidden fees.
Oftentimes, it is cheaper to pay as you go, though many vacationers find that the convenience of paying once is appealing enough to offset the higher costs.
The "all" in "all-inclusive" might have more exceptions than you expect.
Drinks, WiFi, and beach activities are just a few examples of the ways hidden fees can sneak into vacation packages.
Originating with the Club Med chain in 1950s, the all-inclusive model now applies to both mountain ski resorts and island destinations. In addition, cruise ships often drop passengers at these tropical locations, while offering all-inclusive packages themselves.
While some luxury locations offer packages that cater to their guests' individual interests, it is usually cheaper to book the lowest room rate and pay for your own dinners. An undercover test by NBC News TODAY proved that a pay-as-you-go practice actually saved guests close to $400.
Keep reading for a deeper look at all-inclusive resorts, which include long wait lines everywhere from Caribbean buffets to ski lifts in Colorado.
They usually include room fare and three meals per day, though details vary from place to place. They also tend to be flush with activities designed to keep the whole family entertained, whether you're seeking leisure ...
... some simple fun to keep the kids entertained ...
Others may be surprised to learn their all-inclusive drink package doesn’t feature alcoholic options at all, and only includes soft drinks and coffee. Additional drink packages can then cost upwards of $50 per day.
Some menus will also be subject to restrictions, which could come as an unpleasant surprise to diners. Menu items considered "premium entrees" — such as steak and lobster — can cost extra.
Then, of course, there's the question of what exactly you're looking for. If it's rest and relaxation, you'll want to do some research before you book ...
... since all-inclusive resorts can get crowded ...
... especially when high schools and colleges are on spring break.
While these packages may save you some money on lift tickets, the crowds at these popular resorts can be unbearable, especially during holiday weekends.
And then there's the matter of WiFi. Visitors who plan on getting some work done while on vacation may find themselves stuck without complimentary internet and having to pay a daily fee.
Even if you are prepared to pay, you may be disappointed to find that some activities aren't quite what you expected. Dolphin "rides," for example, are frequently housed in on-site pools.
Other resorts charge for spa services, which can run upwards of $100 per treatment or session.
While rare, weather emergencies can ruin a vacation at any of these tropical locations. All-inclusive packages tend not to offer full refunds, even under these extreme circumstances.
Travelers should also be wary of vacation scams when booking stays at all-inclusive resorts. In 2016, NBC News reported a total of 15 million scams costing a total of $1.3 billion, all of which promised unbeatable prices for packages on getaway islands.
Ultimately, though, if you feel better paying for the bulk of the trip upfront and know you're not looking to pay for any add-ons, a trip to an all-inclusive resort may be for you.
