6 Important Things to Ask When Checking Into an All-Inclusive Resort
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1. Do we need to make reservations for the restaurants (and is there a dress code?)
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2. What’s the entertainment schedule?
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3. Which water sports and day trips are included?
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4. What’s the tipping policy?
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5. Are minibar items and room service free?
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6. Is there an upgrade option?
Seasoned travelers with more than a few all-inclusive stays under their belt know that quality can vary from resort to resort. Take Punta Cana, a gorgeous stretch of prime beaches and plenty of all-inclusive properties, for example. While many of the resorts here have similar concepts and designs, differences tend to sneak up that may not be communicated during the booking process. And the bigger the resort, the harder it may be to snag a staff member to chat with, especially with substantial lines at the front desk. That’s why the check-in process is the best opportunity to get things straight. Here are six things to ask for at the very onset of your vacation.
Nothing is more frustrating than being told you can't get a table at an all-inclusive resort's restaurant because you don't have a reservation. Many high-end resorts like Excellence Playa Mujeres
Getting a schedule of the resort's nightlife and entertainment options when checking in isn't always a guarantee. If this is a key part of your experience, ask the front desk for a rundown of what's happening that week. It also doesn't hurt to ask their opinion on what the best shows are. Most of the big family-friendly resorts have large theaters with several shows daily -- some are geared towards kids and others are for adults. Theaters often feature a bar where attendees can also order drinks. Shows can evolve into live music at the casino or an all-night disco blaring dance tunes. Entertainment might also fall into the romantic category. For example, at Sandals Royal Bahamian
Most mid-range tropical all-inclusive resorts will include non-motorized water sports (think kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling) with the rate. Some, however, still charge an obnoxious fee or require strict time limits to an hour per day, or worse, per week. Then there are upscale properties, like the five-villa Tadrai Island Resort
Not only is this a key area of difference between cultures, it's also an area of variance between resorts. Some all-inclusives automatically add a 10 percent (or more) service charge with the rate, so ask the front desk while checking in. Unfortunately, many of the folks who work at these resorts are paid a very low wage and depend on tips for income. When traveling internationally, exchange cash for the local currency beforehand (though admittedly, most will happily accept USD). If service is not included -- or if the resort doesn't have a tipping policy -- offer gratuity the same way you would anywhere else (15 to 20 percent). Even though tips are ostensibly covered at many all-inclusive resorts, it's usually a good idea to tip anyway -- the staff will appreciate it. Though note that at some resorts, such as the Sandals Ochi Beach Resort
It's worth asking. At the very least, many rooms have free bottled water. Some even offer full minibar access with free soda, beer, and snacks; coffeemakers are also provided. Spain-based Riu resorts offer trademark liquor dispensers and 24-hour room service (both free). At Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort
Depending on the resort, availability, and time of year, an upgrade can be obtained for a nominal fee. Find out from the front desk what the options and benefits are of moving up. For instance, at Paradisus Palma Real in Punta Cana
