All-inclusive image getting better
The bad image of “all-inclusive” resorts brings up watered-down drinks and bad buffets but the concept is being reinvented with fashionable rooms, sophisticated food menus and a new and long list of things to do.
In addition, some hotels and resorts are also following a trend of becoming more honest about real prices.
The Fairmont Mayakoba, an upscale resort just south of Cancún, recently introduced its first inclusive meal plan with the “appetite for luxury package.” It starts at $499 a night, per couple, and covers the room, two children five years or younger, bike rentals and unlimited food and beverages.
“In the last year, at least two Starwood resorts, the Westin Resort & Spa, Playa Conchal in Costa Rica and the Sheraton Bijao Beach Resort in Panama, have gone completely all-inclusive with meals, accommodations and children’s club all covered under one price — a first for the company,” says The New York Times.
The pricing direction was largely “a response to demand for more vacation packages from our customers,” said Trip Barrett, a vice-president for Starwood’s Latin America properties.
The new breed of all-inclusive resorts can be particularly attractive to travelers looking for one-sum vacations in these uncertain economic times, points out the Times.
The market for truly upscale all-inclusive also shows no signs of slowing. Neither are the bloated claims of advertising those resorts.
At Paradisus, the resorts offer all suites accommodations, all meals, premium brand drinks, a variety of land and water sports and Sushi making, wine tasting and other “Life-enriching” activities. Standard suites have whirlpool tubs, private balconies and 24-hour room service.
But there should be some “buyer beware” skepticism, the Times warns.
“While most all-inclusive resort offerings are covered in the price, expect to pay extra for special services and amenities like spa treatments, premium drinks and late-night baby-sitting,” says the newspaper.
By David Wilkening
David
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