To All Inclusive or Not to All Inclusive, That is the Question!

RAY BRIDGEMAN, BRIDGEMAN STRATEGIC CONCEPTS AND NETWORK MAGAZINE

So, over the last few years, the wife and I have constantly had the conversation about are all-inclusive resorts worth it? You know, those ones where you write the big check or hit the credit card for the large purchase months out, and you think, really, couldn't I have done the same thing for less at the Jersey shore or down in Florida?

Let me explain how this started for us. We discovered a great hotel (names have been changed to protect the innocent) down in the gulf. A great iconic pink place where the food, drinks, and service are excellent. We absolutely love it, and we actually got engaged there. On one of our regular trips there, I prepaid a week’s stay. Hanging out by the pool and the beach, whenever we wanted a drink, we just raised the flag, and here came your server with your favorite cocktail. Keep in mind that we didn't stay on property every night, matter of fact, most nights, we were out and about in the local spots. The morning of check out comes, and the $0 balance bill I was expecting since I prepaid was more than my week's stay cost. That's right, ladies and gentlemen, the bar bill and ok, the occasional lunch was more than the week's stay! With our love of relaxation and traveling, we immediately started to search for ways to continue this hobby while making this more affordable or start robbing banks!

Jump forward as we started to plan our destination wedding. We visited a couple of those all-inclusive resorts, the ones where even the tip is included. We were hooked from check-in, where we were greeted with cocktails, 5-star meals at every dinner, and great service. Matter of fact, just lock the passport and cash in the safe for the stay. The only time you need it is when you leave the property. And really, it is hard to leave the property. You want to see some of the local stuff, but when you take a vacation to relax, they make sure you do. It is hard