These are some of the most common questions about All-Inclusive Resorts. Every resort or company is a little bit different, and our goal at Outward Travel is to help match you to the resort destination that best fits your desires and needs. Schedule a free chat with a travel advisor to start finding your perfect resort.
I don't drink alcohol, why would I want to pay for an All-Inclusive Resort?
It's important to focus on the total value and experience offered at All-Inclusive Resorts. The economics of the booze is such a tiny part of the whole experience, removing the costs of alcohol wouldn't affect the total cost to the resort or the price you pay in any meaningful way. Just like you may not be into SCUBA-diving or paddle-boarding, you may not enjoy cocktails, and that's okay! All-Inclusive Resorts have something for everyone and the price is not wildly affected by any one feature or offering. Instead, you're getting a great deal on the total package, because trying to piece together a similar vacation would likely cost more.
If you aren't a drinker, be sure to let your travel advisor know. At some resorts, different classes of rooms include in-room alcohol. If a lower-priced room—without in-room alcohol—will do you just fine, we'll help you make the most of your money even at a resort that is already giving you the best value for your money.
I like to explore local areas and meet local people - will I be trapped at the All-Inclusive Resort?
You are certainly not trapped! In fact, most resorts offer off-resort tours, excurions, and even guided shopping trips into the local towns. In our travels, we've experienced the best local cuisine at a little mom-and-pop cafe two islands over from our resort (and we bought her cookbook). Even if you don't want to take an organized tour, you can always get a taxi to pick you up from the resort and take you anywhere you want to go. So don't worry, while you never have to leave the resort for anything, you certainly can if you want.
Is everything actually included?
The specifics depend on the resort, but at our favorite places just about everything is, in fact, included. That means the accommodations, gourmet dining, non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, pools, lawn games, non-motorized water toys (kayaks, paddleboards, etc), snorkeling and diving, fitness classes, and entertainment are all part of the core price. Generally, spa services are not included, and off-site adventures like tours or golfing cost extra as well; but again, it all depends on the resort. When you work with Outward Travel we get to know you and what you love to do, so we'll find you the All-Inclusive Resort that gives you the most value for your unique interests.
What about tipping at All-Inclusive Resorts?
We generally recommend resorts that pay their staff so well that they ban tipping altogether. It's actually kind of a weird experience, because the hospitality is so great you want to tip the staff, but they're not allowed to accept it. There are some exceptions—if you have a butler for your room, tipping is often allowed but not expected, and you can tip the spa staff.
Are All-Inclusive Resorts safe?
All-Inclusive Resorts are enclaves of safety and security. They usually are surrounded by walls or fencing that is obscured by beautiful plants and trees from the inside, but highly secure from the outside. While the beaches are usually technically public, the resorts always have security at the beach entrances and main gates to ensure only people who are supposed to be on property are allowed in. You can feel comfortable knowing that your family can run around at will and not get lost or encounter dangerous situations.
How young can kids be?
In most cases, the kids programs at All-Inclusive Resorts are geared for kids aged 3 and older. But many of the resorts in our collection also have nursery options and babysitting available for infants so that parents can spend some time by themselves.
Are Caribbean resorts LGBTQ+ friendly?
The resorts we work with are all welcoming of LGBTQ+ people, couples, and families. Many Caribbean societies are influenced by religions that don't condone same-sex relationships, which does lead to social stigma or prejudice; while you won't find any gay bars and local LGBTQ+ people tend to stay in the closet, on resort you will be accepted and welcomed.
As far as LGBTQ+ weddings go, the answer depends on the resort. Generally speaking, no Caribbean country other than Puerto Rico (which is part of the United States) allow same-sex marriage, though some have civil unions and recognize foreign same-sex marriages. Some All-Inclusive Resorts only perform locally legal weddings, while others do offer symbolic ceremonies in addition. If you would like to have an LGBTQ+ destination wedding, Outward Travel can help you find the right place where you will be welcomed and celebrated.
Are weddings held at Caribbean All-Inclusive Resorts legally valid in the United States?
Yes, your marriage in another country will be legally binding at home. Our resort partners are excellent at helping you with the right paperwork to ensure your marriage is properly registered back home.
