All-inclusive holidays have reshaped the travel industry across the globe. While all-inclusive resorts in the past were known for their mediocre buffets, simple accommodations, and pool activities, now all-inclusive vacations attract not only people on a budget, but party-goers, yoga fans, and adventure seekers. In fact, just after the recession of 2008, demand rose from 8% to 14%... and keeps rising.
As a result, the number of all-inclusive resorts is also growing; beach resorts, exotic glamping destinations, ski holidays, wellness centers, and so on and on. All-inclusive businesses simply keep expanding their services. Tour agencies and hotels effectively target guest preferences to provide both authentic and premium experiences in order to increase profits.
From the US and Mexico to Thailand and Seychelles, here is everything all-inclusive resorts factor into the cost.
10 Premium Treatments Are Almost Always Additional Costs
All-inclusive packages include a wide variety of amenities. Nevertheless, guests should remember that some premium treatments, such as spa procedures, lounge, golf, motorized activities, and sailing lessons, are not included. And this is exactly how resorts boost their revenue! As expert Lissa Poirot says, "Although the term is all-inclusive, not everything is included - such as golf and the spa - which can sometimes catch guests off-guard."
9 All-Inclusive Resorts Gain Revenue By Offering Airport Transfers
Staying at an all-inclusive resort means you'll have access to guarded facilities, which is important if you are visiting a country with high crime rates. Some hotels offer airport transfers, so all you need to do is put on some sun cream and enjoy yourself without leaving the property gates. Yet, guests should always check if transfers are included in the price.
8 Upsell Options Are Highly Profitable
All-inclusive vacations have changed dramatically over the past decades. While people before were happy to enjoy standard menus and activities, now resorts offer services beyond the initial package purchase. With a variety of upsell options today, such as adults-only areas, kids' zones, and luxury menus, resorts can increase their profits significantly. Many properties have sophisticated systems to collect data and analyze on-property guest behavior to improve their services.
7 All-Inclusive Packages With Beverages Included (And Other Upgrades)
All-inclusive options do not always include what you want; sometimes small fees mean limited options. Many resorts charge extra for beverages, which can cost you an arm and a leg. On the other hand, some all-inclusive packages with alcohol included are also unreasonably expensive, especially on cruise ships. A guest said they had to pay more than $50 for every day of their holiday just for the drink package.
6 The Ease Of All-Inclusive Resorts Attracts Families On A Budget
From adventure seekers to party animals and vacationers on a budget, all-inclusive vacations are popular all over the globe. Families with children, in particular, admit they enjoy the ease of all-inclusive holidays as they do not have to worry about meals, safety, and money. Often parents do not hesitate to book different activities to keep the whole family entertained, which leads to high profitability.
5 Personalized Experiences Attract High-Value Guests
Because travel has changed significantly over the years, many providers target not only vacationers on a budget but adventure seekers, nature lovers, and Millennials. Interestingly, Millennials often choose all-inclusive destinations for weddings and honeymoons. All-inclusive hotels also provide different personalized options, including consultations with nutritionists, massages, diving, volunteer programs, and local activities. Such sophisticated activity offerings benefit hotel operators, off-property tour companies, and vacationers.
4 Long Stays Benefit A Hotel's Bottom Line
Length of stay is something all-inclusive resorts consider. The longer the stay, the higher the Total Guest Value and profitability, says Hospitality Net. Young guests or guests who stay longer may decide to book a trip and leave the resort, which brings more money. Any missed meal, on the other hand, also benefits a hotel’s bottom line.
3 Booking An All-Inclusive Vacation Comes With Hidden Fees And Downsides
Even though all-inclusive vacations are highly convenient, we should admit that some all-inclusive experiences come with certain downsides. Some resort fees can really high and not included in the advertised offer. Tipping is another factor vacationers should consider unless they are staying at a property with no-tipping rules. Additionally, all-inclusive hotels can be impersonal and with poor customer service.
2 Check Rate Inclusions (Because Some Hotels Do Not Include Wi-Fi)
All-inclusive hotels and tour agencies have different tricks to increase their revenue. Thus, always check your inclusion rates and contact the property to clarify what meals, drinks, and activities you can get. As mentioned above, access to premium treatment, art lessons, and daily trips can be limited. Believe it or not, some hotels do not include free Wi-Fi or parking, as per Oyster.
1 Terms And Conditions: Fine Print To Navigate
All-inclusive resorts are trying to bring in loyal and high-value guests. At the same time, some hidden fees and terms can be disappointing. There’s fine print to navigate that may impact the way refunds are handled, including hurricane guarantees. No surprise travel agents recommend getting insurance; such plans may cost from 4% to 12% of the prepaid cost.