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All-inclusive resorts

By Teresa Plowright, About.com

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"I want EVERYTHING all-included"

Turks & Caicos - beachphoto courtesy of Beaches Resorts.

Most "all-inclusive Caribbean vacations" include almost-but-not- quite-everything: that is, all meals and snacks, drinks, kids' programs, and certain watersports and other activities.

Note that:

  • Generally "non-motorized watersports" are included: kayaks, windsurfers, aquak-trikes, etc., while "motorized" ones cost.
  • Snorkeling gear is often free, but perhaps only for an hour of use. Snorkeling boat-trips generally cost extra.
  • Scuba is generally extra
  • spas are always extra
  • off-property outings are extra, though a shuttle bus to a nearby town may be free
  • some NON-all-inclusives offer plans that include meals and/or activities
The Beaches brand gets the nod for "ultra-all-inclusive": even scuba is included (except for an introductory course.) Snorkeling trips are included too. Sign up early, though!

Breezes Curacao is another place with free scuba: guests age 12 and up can first take instruction, and then do daily shore dives. Meanwhile Breezes charges a small fee for its premium restaurants.

At Club Med properties, a wide range of activities are free; note, however, that you'll pay a charge for Baby and Petit (toddler) kids' clubs. Guests also need to buy a Club Med membership (which includes travel insurance.)

Starfish Resort, in Jamaica, takes an interesting approach to "all-inclusive" by offering two price tiers.

Tipping, by the way, is generally an official no-no, but at some properties is common enough.

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