Whether it’s a measure to save money during the credit crunch or to remove the stresses of having to organise and buy things on holiday, more and more people are choosing the all-inclusive option for their breaks. The lure of free food, drink and activities all day can be too hard to resist, whether it’s a romantic holiday, family summer break or all-action trip abroad. We’ve picked out ten of the best destinations for all-inclusive breaks around the world, ranging from the bargain basement to total luxury.
St Lucia, The Caribbean
St Lucia has a range of all-inclusives throughout the island, and they’re increasingly catering for the luxury end of the market. But that’s not to say that families and couples can’t find the right slot for them as well…
For example:
Windjammer Landing offers a great balance. It caters well for families – for example, the children’s club runs in the evenings as well as the daytime so parents can get some peace and quiet over dinner – but it is not overrun by them.
It also specialises in honeymoon couples and wedding parties – there’s a maximum of one wedding every day so that occasion feels special, and there’s the option of in-villa dining for those wanting the extra-romantic touch.
The vibe: It has a village-like feel. The bright white, Greek-style suites and villas are scattered over a hillside, meaning that everyone gets at least a partial sea view.
There are plenty of activities available, but it doesn’t feel like enforced fun. If you don’t want to join in the aquaerobics, it doesn’t matter. Also, because all-inclusive is just an option rather than a requirement, guests don’t have to walk around with those wristbands of shame for the entire duration of their holiday – you just sign off on what you’ve had and it’s not billed to your account.
There’s none of the usual cheapskatery on the drinks either – there’s a good selection of quality spirits available, not just the house bottles of rum and vodka which just so happen to be a brand no-one has ever heard of.
Facilities: There’s a large on-site spa plus five restaurants, numerous pools and a watersports centre that offers activities such as kayaking, snorkelling and banana boat rides. Many of the villas and suites are extremely well equipped as well, with nice touches such as full kitchens, flat screen TVs, washing machines and dryers on offer. There is also free high speed wireless throughout.
Antigua, The Caribbean
Antigua does a fine job in catering to the well-off but not super-rich market. It’s a lazy, lie-on-the-beach kind of destination, and is popular with older holidaymakers wanting peace, quiet and an untroubled lounge about in the sunshine
For example: Hawksbill by Rex Resorts (www.rexresorts.com) is at the end of a bulge of land in the west of the island, stretched along Hawksbill Bay. The location is spectacular – with hills in the background and the chance to watch cruise trundling past in the morning and away again in the evening.
The vibe: For peaceful seclusion, this is the place to head to. It feels like it’s a million miles away from anything vaguely resembling hustle and bustle. It’s not a party place, and is proud of the fact – it’s popular with the more mature crowd, many of whom are repeat visitors. It’s a great place to get away from it all, curl up on a sunbed with a good book and occasionally splash around in the sea to cool down.
Facilities: The pool is small, but who cares when you’ve got four beaches that, to all intents and purposes, are private. There are also tennis courts, golf buggies for hire and activities such as cooking demonstrations, volleyball and garden tours available. There are two bars and three restaurants, of which one offers an a la carte menu at extra charge. Hobie cats and kayaks are available for those feeling a bit more energetic.
Majorca, Spain
A perennial favourite, Majorca has seen a steady growth in all-inclusives over the last few years. Most have a family-friendly vibe.
For example: The Hi! Bouganvilla Park in Sa Coma has a children’s club, children’s pool and a packed activities programme.
Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
With the Euro strong, Egypt has become increasingly popular this year, and for all inclusive, Sharm El Sheikh is the hotspot. There tends to be an action focus, especially for those who fancy diving in the Red Sea. Beware though, diving lessons and outings are very rarely included in the price.
Turkey
Turkey is an increasingly popular Mediterranean sun destination, and all-inclusive resorts are mushrooming along the coast. Many have an emphasis on activities and sports.
Cancun, Mexico
It was built up from nothing as a tourist resort, and nowhere in the world has embraced the all-inclusive concept like Cancun. Most of the resorts in the Hotel Zone are all-inclusives, and many veer towards a party vibe.
Cyprus
For bargain all-inclusive deals that don’t require too long a flight, Cyprus is perfect. There’s a wide range of accommodation options – some family focused, some adult-oriented, some with an emphasis on activities. Prices can be remarkably low, however.
Mauritius, Indian Ocean
Undoubtedly at the luxury end of the scale, Mauritius caters for those that want more than just drinks all day, buffet food and a pool to swim in.
The Maldives
For those looking for a more romantic all-inclusive option, the Maldives is arguably the best bet. But be warned, those incredible over-water bungalows with thatched roofs don’t come cheap.
Jamaica
There are many all-inclusives around Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, and some of them are adults-only. This makes them perfect for those who want to avoid screaming children and have a bit of quiet couple time together.
For example: The lavish (and kid-free) Sandals Dunn’s River Villaggio Golf Resort and Spa near Ocho Rios includes free use of the 18 hole golf course, plus whirlpool baths and all manner of watersports.
This article was originally written for AOL UK.
Copyright David Whitley
