Mexico
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All-Inclusive resorts, you either love them or hate them. As seasoned travelers, we see both sides of this love-hate relationship. But all-inclusive resorts are popular for a reason with those who are short on vacation time or don’t like to plan extensive itineraries. So let’s discuss the pros and the cons of all-inclusive resorts.
Before we get into the pros and cons, let’s first talk about what an all-inclusive resort is. For those who are unfamiliar, an all-inclusive resort is one where the vast majority of your expenses are included in the price of your stay. Some of the included expenses are your accommodation, some activities, food and drink (including alcohol), and so much more. Having a vacation where everything is included sounds amazing right?
All-inclusive resorts have a lot of appeal to those who are short on PTO. But as seasoned travelers who have stayed at all-inclusives before, there is a time and place for this type of travel, and we feel this isn’t always the best option and let us explain why.
There are definitely a lot of benefits of an all-inclusive resort. One of the main benefits is the fact that almost everything is included in the price. Not only is the price of the accommodation included, but so is the food, drinks and activities. It’s a huge selling point for all-inclusive resorts. Having everything included in the price is a cost effective way for people to travel.
Another huge benefit is that all-inclusive resorts are the epitome of a vacation. They sell the idea of having a relaxing week in paradise. And let’s face it, most of these resorts are a slice paradise. They are beautifully constructed with palm trees and ocean views. How can you not return home relaxed after spending time in paradise?
All-inclusive resorts are also geared for all age groups. Whether you are traveling with little kids, as a group of friends for a bachelorette party or with your significant other, all-inclusives will have something for everyone. With that being said, there are also all-inclusives just for adults, family friendly and some with a more romantic or party vibe. It allows you to choose the type of vacation you want to have.
The last pro of all-inclusive resorts is that you can find these resorts all over the world. You can literally find them everywhere. So if you are looking for an affordable week long vacation in Mexico, Bahamas, Jamaica or St. Lucia, you will have no problem finding a resort to fit your needs.
All-inclusives have a lot of pros but they are not all sunshine and rainbows. Unfortunately, all-inclusive resorts do have some downfalls that you need to consider before booking.
One of the first negatives is also a positive in that everything is included. I am sure you are wondering how this can be a negative? It’s a con because you will never want to leave the resort and experience the true culture of the country you are in. Why is that you ask? Because you spent money for everything to be included. When your food and drink are included there is no reason to leave the resort property.
Not leaving the resort is another con in our book. How are you going to experience a culture if you never leave the resort. Let’s play out a hypothetical scenario for a second. Let’s choose Cancun Mexico as an example. Most people who are traveling to Cancun are probably going to stay in an all-inclusive resort in the hotel zone. There are hundreds of resorts to choose from with no actual Mexican culture to experience. This part of Mexico has been flooded with tourists for years and has lost a piece of its culture. Even if you were to leave the resort, good luck finding anything authentic. And unfortunately, a lot of all-inclusive resorts are located in overly touristy areas.
When you travel what is the one thing that is at the top of your list to do? I hope you said eat amazing food. Sadly, this can be a negative for all-inclusive resorts. Now don’t get me wrong, some resorts have some of the best food you have ever had and others are a little lacking. Most resorts have the same type of restaurants which usually include Italian, a steak house and an asian restaurant, just to name a few. There usually isn’t a whole lot of variety or food that is authentic to the location.
Lastly, all-inclusive resorts may not be for those who are adventurous. All-inclusives truly speak to those who want to relax and have everything that they could want or need for a week on the property. For those who love to experience culture, eat local cuisine and explore an area, you will not enjoy a week long stay at an all-inclusive.
There are a lot of decisions that you need to make when planning a vacation. And sometimes it’s just easy to go the all-inclusive route. Trust us, we enjoy an all-inclusive every now and then. In fact we believe there is a time and place for this type of vacation.
We hope that you were able to weigh some of the pros and cons of all-inclusive resorts to help you make the decision on whether or not they are for you. We would love to know what you thought about this podcast episode and how you feel about all-inclusive resorts. Have you ever stayed in one? Do you think they are worth the money and experience?
Hi travel besties! It's Kayla and Cheraya, your co-hosts of the Passports and Coffee Podcast. We are fellow corporate world millennials looking to escape the 9-5 and are encouraging you to do the same.
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