Most people picture beach resorts when they think of "all inclusive vacations", and undoubtedly these getaways are hugely popular with their beautiful beaches, lavish pools, kids programs and watersports -- see some top destinations, below. But there are also other types of resorts and other types of vacations that include lodgings, meals and activities for one price. Read on...
All Inclusive Vacations in the Caribbean
Photo courtesy of Franklyn D. Resort.
Families can find all inclusive resorts on many Caribbean islands Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, St. Lucia, and more. A number of Caribbean all inclusive resorts make major efforts with kids programs, providing creative programs for many different age groups and possibly also infant care. Check out top resorts for families, value-priced choices, major resort brands, and more.
All Inclusive Vacations in Mexico
Photo © Teresa Plowright.
Mexico too offers many opportunities for all inclusive vacations, in popular areas such as Cancun, the Mayan Riviera, Los Cabos, and the Riviera Nayarit north of Puerto Vallarta. Kids clubs at resorts in Mexico tend to be the "friendly little club" type for ages four to twelve, but there are exceptions with outstanding programs.
All Inclusive Vacations in Europe
The Club Med brand is based in Europe and has many resorts there; families can even take an all inclusive vacation at a ski resort. Club Med is known for excellent kids programs including baby care, and also for its unique ambiance.In recent years, other all inclusive choices have cropped up in destinations such as Greece. For instance, Thomson Holidays -- a major holiday packager in the UK-- offers all inclusive vacation packages in several countries. Be sure to check what's provided in the price.
All Inclusive Vacations in the US
Photos courtesy of Woodloch Resort.
A surprising example of an all inclusive vacation in the US is the Club Med Sandpiper Bay resort on the St. Lucie river in Florida. This resort offers trapeze, tennis, and golf lessons, Baby Club Med, and active kids programs. Or perhaps your family might like a ranch resort in New York state, where winter fun include snow tubing and skiing (and an indoor pool). Or a lakefront resort in Pennsylvania...
Hawaii: All Inclusive Vacations?
Photo courtesy of Kaanapali Beach Hotel.
Hawaii deserves a special mention, as visitors used to tropical all inclusive vacations in the Caribbean and Mexico may imagine they'll find similar getaways here. Hawaii, however, doesn't offer all inclusive resorts. Still, a few suggestions can be made -- click above.
Dude Ranches
Photo © Teresa Plowright.
Dude ranches typically provide guests with all meals and most beverages. Some dude ranches offer kids programs, which may be included in the price as well. Guests may need to pay extra for horseback-riding: be sure to check whether this is included or not. Styles of dude ranches range from rustic to resort-like; you may find that your dude ranch has a spa.
Nearly All Inclusive Vacations: Cruises
Photo courtesy of Disney Cruise Line.
Cruises offer a (nearly) all inclusive vacation, with meals and onboard activities provided. Families need to budget extra money for gratuities and shore excursions. On some ships, infant care is available at an extra charge. Also sodas are not typically free on cruises, though most offer a "soda plan". And grownups should expect to pay for any bar drinks ordered.
Nearly All Inclusive Vacations: Family Adventures
Photo © Teresa Plowright.
"Family adventures" are escorted tours to magnificent destinations such as the Grand Canyon or the Galapagos. Fun might include biking, horseback riding or whitewater rafting. Other trips are cultural/historical, and might head, for example, to Venice, with sightseeing led by an excellent local guide, and priority admission to busy museums. All details -- including hotel check-ins -- are handled by the guides who take care of you throughout the trip. Itineraries are top-notch, and all activities are included as are most meals.
