Okay, it’s official, you’re going to the beach! Next step: choose your resort. It’s not hard to figure out that resort options in the Caribbean feel endless, so we’re here to help with one crucial step of the process, figuring out the difference between an all-inclusive and a European plan.
Secrets, Los Cabos (Photo by: @technicallyrite)Food & Drink
First and foremost, one of the biggest differences between the two is the food and drink situation. All-inclusive resorts include all food and drinks (yes, you read that right) for one price. Forget having to worry about the tab you ran up at the beach bar all day! Typically, room service and minibars are also included in these packages. While there may be options to pay an additional cost for premium alcohol or a la carte food, depending on the resort, you can basically have all the food and drink your sweet lil’ heart desires.
Room service, Secrets Akumal (Photo by: @casa_de_mijares)European plans differ from all-inclusive in that food and drink aren’t incorporated into the price, so any meal or beverage bought on the property will come out of your pocket. If you are more adventurous and want to venture out to local eateries, then this option might fit your needs! Beware though, food costs along with any transportation outside of resorts can add up quickly.
Margaritas by the pool? Uh, yes please! (Photo by: @janelleconway)Convenience
When most people think of vacation, they think stress free, which is exactly what all-inclusives offer. Once you get to your resort, the only decision left to make is which restaurants to dine in–which, in some cases, can even be planned out before you even get there! Another positive to this is not having to worry about food/drink quality or cost adding up.
Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel, Riviera Maya (Photo by: @pica19)If you are someone who delights in searching for the most authentic cuisine and mapping out the different restaurants you want to go to, then maybe stick to the European plan! You are free to be adventurous with your taste buds, but we recommend doing some research and planning before you get to your resort. The Caribbean is filled with delicious local food options; it just might take extra planning on your part to find them.
Snorkel and swim on repeat! (Photo by: @scrappelittcom)Activities
Another way all-inclusive earns its name is by the inclusion of non-motorized water sports in the price paid upfront–something which is not offered by European plans. If you are looking for fun activities around your resort, staying at an all-inclusive gives you the option to try your luck at windsurfing, kayaking, snorkeling and more; some resorts even include motorized water sports, like jet skiing! These activities provide another exciting adventure to embark on during your vacay!
Hello beautiful! (Photo by: @hollywood_rozayy)Now that we have the differences between resorts cleared up, it’s time to book! See when the best times are to plan your next vacay and check out some of the amazing deals offered all the way from Cancun to Turks & Caicos!
