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So if you're staying at an all-inclusive resort, the vast majority of your expenses—accommodations, food and drink (including alcohol), gratuities, and perhaps some activities—are all included in the price of your stay.

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In fact, in theory you shouldn't have to use your credit card or part with cash at any point throughout your stay.

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All-inclusive resorts are found all over the world, in holiday destination hotspots such as the Mediterranean and the Far East.

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Mexico and the Caribbean are also favorite all-inclusive resort locations, famed for their fabulous beaches and bright, tropical ambiance.

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This convenient one-price-for-everything approach often ends up being cheaper than a typical pay-as-you-go vacation.

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Once you've chosen your destination and before booking an all-inclusive package, check out the type of clientele the resort is geared towards. Many are family-friendly, with lots of activities, daycare facilities, entertainment, and kid-friendly pools to keep everyone occupied.

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Others are adults only, resorts with a grown-up, 18+ buzz that cater to couples, mature groups, and senior holidaymakers. Facilities reflect the need for peace and quiet coupled with plenty of hedonistic fun.

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For the most part, gratuities are included in the price of an all-inclusive package. There's no need to keep dipping into your pocket or figuring out how much to tip and when.

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Again, before you press enter, double-check exactly what's included. Or, perhaps more pertinently, what isn't.

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Are airport transfers included? Ending up stranded in the arrivals hall is the last thing you need, especially after a long-haul flight. And you'll pay a premium to flag down a taxi. Make sure transfers are round trip as well.

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How many restaurants are available? Does the resort offer an à la carte menu? Or will you be expected to join the buffet queue?

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Do you get fed three times a day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner? A trite question, perhaps, but don't take for granted that you'll receive three square meals a day.

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For example, are airfares included in the package? Is it a direct flight, or is there an onward connection that you'll be expected to pay for?

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Holidaying near a beach presents all sorts of watersport activity opportunities. Are these activities included in the package, or offered as optional extras?

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Indulging in a spa session may mean using the plastic. But many guests look forward to a spot of pampering during their break and regard an hour or so of well-being therapy an essential treat. If it is included then, hey, no sweat!

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Physically leaving the resort takes you out of the all-inclusive zone and, unless they are included in the package, activities like jeep excursions, for example, will likely cost extra.

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Similarly, visits to local archaeological sites or other culturally significant attractions will probably incur a fee.

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And therein lies a major disadvantage of staying at an all-inclusive resort. If you're looking to immerse yourself in a local culture, learn more about another country, or practice your language skills, an all-inclusive deal may not be for you.

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Indeed, if you're the more independent type with a spirit of adventure, an all-inclusive environment will feel routine and restrictive.

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Generally speaking, an all-inclusive resort provides a safe and familiar holiday haven, especially for those with young children. Most resorts of this type are gated off from public access for security reasons.

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Furthermore, an all-inclusive vacation is pretty much a worry-free vacation. The minute you check in, you can relax and swift off.

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Indeed, chilling out in an all-inclusive resort means you really don't have to think about anything. Forget about making meal reservations, or following a busy itinerary, because everything is taken care of for you.

Sources: (Responsible Travel) (ResearchGate)

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Another downside of booking a stay at an all-inclusive resort is the potentially negative impact doing so has on the local community and the environment.

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Guests rarely venture outside the resort's confines, so tourist revenue rarely benefits small businesses in the surrounding community. Counter this by occasionally patronizing local restaurants and buying souvenirs in town rather than onsite. And while gratuities are generally included in the package, why not tip staff anyway for the services they are providing?

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If you're about to go on vacation, you may have chosen a stay at an all-inclusive resort. A hugely popular holiday option, embarking on an all-inclusive experience means you've already met the majority of expenses upfront, including accommodation, food and drink, most entertainment, and probably even gratuities. But there can also be hidden costs involved, things like spa sessions and out-of-resort excursions. And while an all-inclusive resort offers a safe and practical family holiday environment, being held in the confines of one place may not appeal to the more independently-minded adventure tourist. So, is an all-inclusive vacation for you?

Click through and check out the pros and cons of a holiday that includes all.

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Is the Wi-Fi included, both in-room and the common areas?

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By reading the fine print, you should be able to determine the meal deal. Firstly, what kind of food do they serve? And will guests' dietary requirements be met?

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Is room service included, and can you eat and drink what you want 24 hours a day?

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There's no doubt that all-inclusive resorts can be a cost-effective way to vacation. The chances of you exceeding your holiday budget or encountering a surprise major expense are pretty slim. But watch out for any hidden extras.

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Does your room feature a minibar? If so, is it stocked and included in the price?

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An all-inclusive vacation is a holiday that includes all the essentials in the booking price

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While all-inclusive resorts usually include alcoholic beverages, guests are often disappointed to learn that only "cheap" or "bottom shelf" liquor is included. Find out if they serve premium brand spirits.