Imagine your perfect day in the Caribbean lying in a shaded cabana on a beautiful beach with white sand and azure blue waters. This dream probably includes an unlimited amount of your favorite gourmet delicacies and plenty of rum cocktails, all without thinking about the cost. This fantasy vacation is possible and is exactly what many all-inclusive resorts are selling.
"A stay at an all-inclusive resort gives guests the luxury of having everything they would want in a vacation rolled into one," Gordon "Butch" Stewart, Chairman of Sandals Resorts International, told the International Business Times. "Once guests arrive, there's nothing to worry about except enjoying their vacation, rather than worrying over all the dollars and cents adding up along the way."
With hundreds of all-inclusive choices in the Caribbean, it may be hard to figure out where to start. The key difference between all-inclusive resorts is the targeted clientele. Some are clearly for families and multi-generational groups while others are better for couples looking for romance. Top-rated family resorts like Beaches, a subsidiary of Sandals, are able to satisfy kids' needs for adventure and fun, while also allowing parents to have the vacation they want.
"Beaches Resorts not only caters to the whole family, but to each age group as well, with certified nannies, exclusive kids camps and teen and tween-friendly activities, allowing adults quality time during a family getaway," said Stewart.
Romance resorts, on the other hand, often have age limits and offer a completely different ambiance. These resorts are often smaller, more intimate, and are tailored to relaxation.
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It's important to note that all-inclusive usually means most -- but not all -- of the activities and services are included. Some resorts have additional fees for top-shelf alcohol, certain water activities, and spa services. Make sure to check the fine print and see what's really included in the package before booking.
Families
Club Med Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Club Med is the original all-inclusive resort, so it should come as no surprise they know how to do it right. Parents will love the Mini Club Med (4 to 11) and Club Med Passworld (11-17), included in the package. With this added perk, parents can enjoy a romantic dinner or time to relax at the beach, while kids can do exactly what they want like playing sports, having DJ lessons, or making new friends their own age. There are also plenty of activities for the whole family like circus school with a flying trapeze, windsurfing, and dance lessons.
What's not included: Top shelf alcohol, champagne, and supervision of children under the age of four (provided at an additional charge). Offsite activities such waterskiing, snorkeling, and scuba diving are also optional extras.
Rates: Start at $1,064 for a seven night stay in standard accommodations based on double occupancy
More information: http://www.clubmed.us/cm/resort-punta-cana-dominican-rep_p-115-l-US-v-PCAC-pe-12H-ac-vh.html
Beaches, Turks and Caicos
