Thursday, 3 December 2015

Types Of Allinclusive Package Plans

The Caribbean is one place to find all-inclusive resorts.


The term "all-inclusive" doesn't have an exact definition. Depending on where you are staying, all-inclusive packages may or may not include all meals, drinks or activities. Always ask, when in doubt. Individual hotels within a chain can even vary in their plans, so just because you've been to one of the company's locations, that doesn't mean things will be the same at another one.


Without Drinks


Club Med was the originator of the all-inclusive resort, though they didn't include drinks with their accommodations. Some hotels, such as Skytop Lodge in the Poconos Resorts, include all of your meals and most activities, but not any of your drinks---except for maybe iced tea and coffee during meals. A similar policy has been adopted by most cruise lines, though some have added specialty restaurants that are not included in the meal plan.


Your Choice


A few places allow you to decide what you want "all-inclusive" to mean. Paradisus Resorts has a Royal service that includes personalized pillow menus and butler service. Celebrity Cruises has introduced a full selection of beverage plans so you can pick and pay before you sail, with packages that include various levels of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. They even have a plan that includes everything from top shelf liquors to cappuccinos and Vitamin Water, with no limit to how much you get.


Just About Everything


Certain resort chains have adopted "ultra" all-inclusive and "super" all-inclusive policies, so that you rarely have to reach into your wallet. Resorts such as Secret and Royal Plantation include extras with waiters on the beach and by the pool, as well as 24-hour room service, to bring you every premium wine and drink. Some luxury cruise lines, such as Silversea, are also adopting the policy of including it all, from drinks to shore excursions.


Considerations


Be sure to check on gratuities when you have an all-inclusive package. Some places include them and some do not. You may find that you want to give a little extra, even in places that include tips. Cruise ships often charge tips to your room everyday automatically. If you have an objection to the gratuity amount, be sure to inform the guest relations desk as soon as possible. On the other hand, some places, like Sandals Resorts and Silversea Cruises, do not even allow employees to take tips.

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