All Inclusive Hotels

Getting the best for your buck

The name Gérard Blitz may not mean much to you, but if it wasn’t for this Belgian water polo champion you would most likely not be enjoying the freedom of an all inclusive holiday. Blitz opened the granddaddy of all inclusive hotels, Club Med, in 1950, a model which has become the success story of the modern holiday industry, especially in recent times when holidaymakers are focussing on budget breaks and value for money.

A world-wide phenomenon

The all inclusive phenomenon is world-wide. They became particularly popular in the resorts of the Caribbean such as Barbados, Aruba, Mexico, the Dominican Republic and remote regions where the local infrastructure is not geared to everyday tourist needs. This idea of offering holidays in far-flung corners of the globe while being careful of the comfort and security of their guests led to a proliferation of all inclusive hotels in Indian Ocean resorts, such as the tropical islands of the Maldives and the Seychelles. Many of Egypt and Israel’s Red Sea resorts also favour all inclusive hotels above traditional establishments, and if you are heading as far as South East Asia for sun and relaxation, you will find all inclusive hotels along the coast of Thailand and on the fabulous island of Bali. Closer to home, many hotels in the Balearics, the Canary Islands, Turkey, Portugal, Greece and Spain have seen the benefits of featuring all inclusive deals and, tied in with the blossoming of budget flights, these destinations offer great late deal bargains, particularly for short breaks or family holidays.

Pay before you play

The major benefit of this type of holiday is that your accommodation, food, drinks and certain facilities and entertainment are paid for before you leave home, so you don’t have to worry about an ever-diminishing wallet while you are away or the hassle of making sure that you have a few coins to tip a waiter every time you order a drink.

To make sure you have no uncomfortable surprises that will call on the help of your plastic friend, check exactly what is included in the all-inclusive offer at your hotel. At the very minimum, your accommodation, meals (sometimes only two) and drinks will be part of the deal, but don’t assume your evening rum and coke will be the brand you drink at home as you may only be offered locally produced alcoholic drinks and mixers. Excursions from the hotel and water sports are often charged as extras, and look into use of the Internet and spa treatments, and whether or not kids' clubs are included in the upfront price. Some hotels offer a selection of all inclusive deals that will vary with the price tag. For example, a basic level might include meals and locally produced drinks, whereas a higher level could offer you free entry into the spa, including treatments, branded drinks, gourmet food or 24-hour service. It is very, very important to know what level of service you are paying for and exactly what you will get for your money.