15 Mistakes to Avoid at an All-Inclusive Resort
All-inclusive resort mistakes can turn your dream vacation into a less-than-ideal experience. As experts in destination weddings and honeymoons at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean, we’ve seen how easy it is for couples to make these common errors.
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Avoiding these pitfalls will help you have the romantic getaway you deserve. From choosing the wrong resort to forgetting to plan special occasions, we’ve compiled the top 15 mistakes couples make and practical tips to help you steer clear of them. By addressing these issues, you’ll be well-prepared for a perfect, stress-free escape.
1. Choosing the Wrong Resort
All-inclusive resorts vary widely in terms of service, food, amenities, and activities. The biggest considerations are location, theme, and guest demographics. For example, if you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an adults-only resort like Sandals might be perfect, but it won’t be ideal for a family vacation. Do your research to ensure the resort aligns with your preferences. Reading reviews on sites like TripAdvisor and checking out travel blogs can give you a clear picture of what to expect.
2. Not Taking Advantage of the “Sister” Resort Options
Many resort chains offer access to their other nearby properties, often referred to as “sister” resorts. This can be a great way to explore different dining options, pools, and activities. For instance, staying at one of the Riu resorts in Cancun might grant you access to amenities at nearby Riu properties, giving you more variety without extra cost.
3. Overindulging
Just because you can eat three pounds of prime rib and a gallon of ice cream doesn’t mean you should. The same goes for trying every specialty drink on the menu. Use moderation in what you eat and drink so you can enjoy and remember your vacation. Pace yourself by balancing indulgent meals with lighter options, like fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Also, consider alternating alcoholic beverages with water to stay hydrated and avoid the dreaded vacation hangover.
4. Not Getting to Know the Staff
Learning the staff members’ names and offering a smile can go a long way toward making your vacation more enjoyable. Staff members who feel appreciated often go out of their way to help the people with whom they make a connection. For example, if you befriend the bartender, they might share insider tips on the best local drinks to try. If something goes wrong, having a friendly rapport can also mean quicker and more attentive service.
5. Not Asking for Room Upgrades
You never know unless you ask! Upon check-in, politely inquire about any available room upgrades. Whether it’s a better view, more space, or a quieter location, a simple request can sometimes land you an enhanced experience at no additional cost. For honeymooners, mentioning your special occasion might increase your chances of scoring an upgrade. Ask for their preferred club, diamond club or something similar. Even if its for an additional fee, there might be a deal there!
6. Staying at the Resort the Entire Time
Get out of your comfort zone! Most all-inclusive resorts are in a specific destination because of the beauty and culture, so plan an excursion to explore the area. For instance, if you’re in Riviera Maya, book a tour to visit the ancient Mayan ruins at Tulum or snorkel in the crystal-clear cenotes. If you’re in the Dominican Republic, take a day trip to Santo Domingo or visit Saona Island! In the Bahamas, you have to swim with the pigs and do a rum tour! Yes, you are on vacation and you should relax. But ask yourself this…what if you don’t ever make it back?
7. Not Asking the Staff for Personal Tour/Excursion Recommendations
While the resort may offer its own excursions, asking staff members for their personal recommendations can lead you to hidden gems and more authentic experiences. For example, a concierge might know of a local, lesser-known beach or a quaint family-owned restaurant that isn’t on the typical tourist radar. This is where we get all the tea! Our favorite was a beach that one of the locals recommended in Bermuda. It was absolutely perfect, and we almost had the entire beach to ourselves! Had we gone with a standard tour, we would have been in a crowded tourist location!
8. Expecting the Resort to Handle All Childcare Needs
While many resorts offer kids’ clubs and babysitting services, they aren’t a full-time daycare. Plan some family activities and ensure your kids have some downtime. Check the schedule for kids’ activities and balance it with family time to ensure everyone enjoys the vacation.
9. Booking the First “Deal” You Find
It’s tempting to jump on the first great deal you see, but patience pays off. Compare prices, check for additional perks, and consider booking through a travel agent who might have access to exclusive offers. Sometimes, waiting a bit or shopping around can result in significant savings or added benefits, like resort credits or free excursions.
10. Skipping the Fine Print
All-inclusive doesn’t always mean everything is included. Be sure to read the fine print of what your package covers. Some resorts charge extra for premium drinks, certain activities, or spa services. The biggest culprit is Margaritaville Resorts. Knowing these details ahead of time will help you budget properly and avoid surprise charges. For example, a resort may include a free scuba diving lesson but charge for additional dives, so plan accordingly.
11. Forgetting About Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a must, especially when heading to an all-inclusive resort. It covers unforeseen events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage. For example, suppose your flight gets canceled due to bad weather. In that case, travel insurance can cover your additional expenses, ensuring you still get to enjoy your vacation without a hefty financial setback.
Plus you are traveling to a tropical location, no one can predict the weather. Don’t get stuck!
12. Neglecting to Make Dinner Reservations
Many all-inclusive resorts have specialty restaurants that require reservations. These spots can fill up quickly, so it’s wise to book your dining experiences as soon as you arrive. Literally, before we go to our room to drop off our luggage, we make reservations. Imagine missing out on a romantic dinner at the resort’s best seafood restaurant because you didn’t plan ahead. Check the resort’s policy on reservations and make them early to ensure you get to enjoy the dining experiences you want. A lot of them now use their own apps that allow you to book ahead of time.
Bonus: if you are staying in a butler-level category, ask your butler to make reservations for you right away. They usually have some ways to get you everything you want!
13. Not Bringing Small Bills for Tips
While all-inclusive resorts often include gratuities, it’s still a good idea to bring small bills for additional tipping. Tipping a few dollars for excellent service can enhance your experience and encourage staff to go the extra mile. For instance, slipping a small tip to the bellhop, housekeeping, or the server who brought your drinks can lead to more personalized service throughout your stay.
14. Staying “Plugged In”
It’s time to put the phone down and turn the computer off. Remember your motivation for planning your vacation, and be fully present in the moment. Set specific times to check your devices, then spend the rest of your time soaking in the sun, enjoying activities, and connecting with your travel companions. Try starting your day with a tech-free breakfast or ending it with a device-free evening stroll on the beach. This digital detox will help you truly unwind and enjoy your surroundings.
15. Not Planning for Special Occasions
If you’re celebrating something special like a honeymoon, birthday, or anniversary, let the resort know ahead of time. Many all-inclusive resorts offer complimentary perks like room upgrades, special dinners, or even spa treatments for special occasions. For honeymooners, mentioning your newlywed status might score you some bubbly and chocolate-covered strawberries in your room upon arrival, adding an extra touch of romance to your stay.
Avoid All-Inclusive Resort Mistakes For a Seamless Vacation!
By avoiding these all-inclusive resort mistakes, you can make sure your vacation is everything you hoped for and more. Mistakes like overindulging, skipping the fine print, and not taking advantage of available amenities can easily be avoided with the right preparation.
Ready to plan your next all-inclusive vacation? Book a call with us today. Our expertise in destination weddings and honeymoons will guide you to the perfect resort in Mexico or the Caribbean, creating an unforgettable experience tailored just for you.