All-Inclusive Travel Agency: Top 12 Tips & 17 Top Picks
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Who has the BEST All-Inclusive Vacation Package?
There are literally dozens if not hundreds of All-Inclusive properties/resorts, mostly in the Caribbean and Mexico. For the record, there are no All-Inclusive resorts in the Hawaiian islands or Puerto Rico. A prominent new-comer, three year old, All-Inclusive property/resort is the Club Med Seychelles which is located in the Indian Ocean, just 100 miles north of the island of Madagascar.
The biggest two issues that most consumers face are:
1) Figuring out which All-inclusive resort offers them the best value for their money;
2) Determining which All-Inclusive resort best suits their taste and needs. Is the All-Inclusive resort an ADULTS ONLY resort? Is the All-Inclusive resort FAMILY FRIENDLY?
In this All-Inclusive guide, Seven Seas Travel explains:
1) The basics of All-Inclusive Resorts;
2) 17 All-Inclusive resorts that separate themselves from the crowd. Helpful videos & EXPERT TIPS;
3) The importance of honest and candid All-Inclusive resort reviews;
4) Is Cancun safe for tourists in 2024 or 2025;
5) Best known online travel agents (OTAs) for All-Inclusive vacations;
6) Using the travel agency near me vs. online travel companies;
7) Best places to vacation All-Inclusive;
8) How much should an All-Inclusive vacation cost;
9) What is the cheapest month to go on the All-Inclusive vacation;
10) Are Costco vacation packages a good deal;
11) Are All-Inclusive vacation packages worth it;
12) What are the safest All-Inclusive beach resorts.
The Basics of All-Inclusive Resorts:
Vacation planning can be a lot of work, which is why an all-inclusive beach vacation can be a good option for those times when all the travel prep just seems too overwhelming. Depending on the resort, most everything will be taken care of and paid ahead of time, and you won't need to keep reaching for cash or credit cards during your trip.
Comb through the info, read reviews about dining options to see if included food choices and restaurant styles (like buffet versus sit-down) will work for you, check out the beaches, look over the entertainment, check out the amentities and extras, OR and/or consult with the best travel agency near me such as Seven Seas Travel.
What's Usually Included at All-Inclusive Resorts:
Read the FINE PRINT to fully understand what's included at the resort of your choice and what isn't. Typically, All-Inclusive beach packages include food and drinks at your resort, so if you eat elsewhere, you'll be paying extra on top of what you've already paid for. At most All-Inclusive beach resorts, non motorized water sports are included. Motorized water sports are usually extra. Are resort fees going to be charged when you get to the resort? Read the fine print!
What's Usually Not Included At All-Inclusive Resorts:
At most All-Inclusive beach resorts or resorts which offer the all-inclusive beach option, things like spa services, butler service, "top shelf liquor" or "premium brand liquor" are an extra cost. The same goes for excursions, tours and activities outside your resort. At most all-inclusive beach resorts, motorized water sports are not included. At some All-Inclusive resorts, some premium restaurants are not included OR have a mandatory reservation that should/must be booked a day or two ahead of time.
Several All-Inclusive resort brands do offer "CLUBS" whereby the guest can upgrade to a room class which can cover such amenities such as spa services, special dining, special pools, premium liquor, and even "butler service". CLUB upgrades offer some of the best values in the All-Inclusive resort market.
PREMIUM All-Inclusive Beach Resorts and Clubs:
All-Inclusive beach resort brands that typically offer "top shelf liquor" or "premium brand liquor" and things like daily restocked in-room minibars include: Excellence, Sandals, Hyatt Zilara, Riu Palace Resorts, Hoteles Xcaret, Le Blanc, Royalton, Secrets, TRS Coral, Club Med, Hilton, Zoetry, Princess, Cayo Levantado Resort, Sandos Caracol ECO Resort, and Breathless.
Many of these same premium all-inclusive beach resorts offer CLUBS or premium/private areas of the resort which typically offer butler service, private beach areas/pools, private club restaurants, and private beach bars.
Some specialialized All-Inclusive resorts include:
1) All-Inclusive resorts such as the Armony Marival Resort & Spa Punta de Mita, located in Mexico's Riviera Nayarit, specialize in premium wellness programs.
2) Some resorts like the Princess Family Club Bávaro in the Dominican Republic have guestrooms that accommodate up to five guests.
3) Hoteles Xcaret, Armony Marival Resort & Spa Punta de Mita, RIu Palace Costa Rica, and Sandos Caracol ECO Resort are FAMILY FRIENDLY All-Inclusive resorts.
4) The Royalton CHIC Suites Cancun Resort & Spa - Adults Only, The Hideaway at Royalton Punta Cana Resort-Casino, the Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Adults Only, Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun, Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos, and Atelier Playa Mujeres are examples of ADULTS ONLY All-Inclusive resorts.
These are the BEST All-Inclusives which our clients often ask us about:
Top 16 Premium All-Inclusive Resorts and Clubs
1) The Excellence offers properties in El Carmen, Dominican Republic; Oyster Bay, Jamaica; Playa Mujeres, Mexico; Riviera Cancun, Mexico; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. At the Excellence, top shelf liquors are standard as well as complimentary lobster.
The Excellence offers its own EXCELLENCE CLUB that includes:
a) Excellence Club Beach Access. The friendly, hard-working staff delivers drinks and food right to your beach chair without you having to go in search of a bar or restaurant. With the Excellence Club, you have access to a private beach area;
b) The Private Pools: Excellence Club Private Pool Access. With the upgrade to the Excellence Club, you have access to private pools and hot tubs as well. This is a huge perk during the peak busy season if you are looking for a quieter, more tranquil atmosphere. The pools are located in more remote parts of the resort as well, farther away from the action. Another bonus is that these pools are heated in the winter whereas the main pools may not be;
c) Upgraded Amenities-Nespresso Excellence Club. From a Nespresso machine to Bvlgari toiletries, Excellence Club level rooms come with upgraded amenities. You’ll receive flowers and a bottle of sparkling wine in suite upon your arrival, a more extensive room service menu, upgraded liquors and wine choices, a complimentary beach bag to use and more;
d) Aqua Hydrotherapy Treatment.. As an Excellence Club member, each room guest will receive 1 complimentary aqua hydrotherapy treatment per stay. From different saunas, ice pools, massage fountains… well, it’s quite an experience! Lasting around 45 minutes, the aqua hydrotherapy treatment is like a mini spa session and is private from other guests.
2) The TRS Coral hotel, part of the Palladium Hotel Group, in Cancun, Mexico offers complimentary lobster dishes at one of the resort's restaurants. Several amenities at the TRS Coral hotel include:
a) A wide white-sand beach in Playa Mujeres, north of the more boisterous Hotel Zone;
b) Nespresso coffeemakers in each room;
c) All rooms have terraces with hydro-massage tubs or swim-out pool access;
d) Top-shelf liquor;
e) Zentropia wellness center with hydrotherapy circuit and modern fitness center;
f) 24-hour room service and minibar are included
g) Butler service in every room.
3) The Hoteles Xcaret offers 3 properties in Playa del Carmen, Mexico which include the Hotel Xcaret Mexico, Hotel Xcaret Arte, and The La Casa De La Playa. The Hoteles Xcaret resorts are the first of our family friendly All-Inclusive resorts. Each of the 3 properties offers:
a) Complimentary Unlimited entrance to 9 ECO-THEME PARKS;
b) The Hotel Xcaret Arte which opened in July 2021, offers complimentary instructor based classes in knitting, vegan cuisine, dancing, painting, and pottery. Guests are urged to bring back their artistic works when they return home.
4) Immerse yourself at the Sandos Caracol ECO Resort in nature and ancient Maya history at an All-Inclusive resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. When you have the best water park in Mexico, abundant wildlife, multiple swimming pools, non-stop fun and entertainment, you have the best resort for kids and families.
a) The grounds are amazing. The resort is set in a jungle, so if you’re after a beautiful beach resort, this might not be the place for you. If you’re willing to walk, you will see some absolutely spectacular sights. The wildlife is abundant, from coatis to monkeys
to raccoons etc. it’s just full of wildlife so be prepared for that;
b) Every morning, there are the cutest monkeys all over the balcony which kids love. They love bananas but if they see one they will become a little aggressive to grab it so be careful. There are a lot of trails showcasing natural cenotes, small ruins, abundant tree and plant life. The resort has a beautiful lagoon of water to snorkel in which was a lot of fun. The waterpark is a fun spot too with lots to do for all ages;
c) The beach is rugged and natural. THAT is the thing to keep in mind, this resort is an eco resort so it’s not groomed like many beach resorts are.The main pool is a blast! The entertainment team are so fun and engaging. They had lots of games for the kids and adults to play at all times. The main pool has a pool bar and bar on the other side as well. Be prepared with a beach bag and to bring all of your items with you everywhere;
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d) The rooms are fine, beds are pretty comfortable and housekeeping does a good job of keeping them clean.
They have bunk beds for the kids which was awesome;
e) Families will have a blast snorkeling the Rio Jade river. Guides are very friendly and highly educational. You will see lots of fish and a few turtles.They have bunk beds for the kids which was awesome;
f) Booking for A La Carte restaurants is done online and is not available in their system until 12am. Buffets are great with great service. They even have a candy bar for the kids;
g) The shows were AMAZING! They did not disappoint and kids will love them. Be prepared that they don`t start until 9PM
so if you are planning to have the kids partake, a nap may be a great idea to incorporate into your days.
5) The Royalton CHIC Suites Cancun Resort & Spa - Adults Only and The Hideaway at Royalton Punta Cana Resort-Casino - Adults Only property offer their own DIAMOND CLUB which for just a 10-20% increase in rates from its normal price offers such things as:
a) Personalized butler service for exceptional continuous assistance;
b) In suite complimentary aromatherapy from The Royal Spa;
c) One hour of therapeutic hydrotherapy access during the guest stay, featuring Jacuzzis and revitalizing circuits;
d) Priority reservations at specialty restaurants;
e) Exclusive private pool for Diamond Club™ guests;
f) Private and upscale breakfast experience at a designated exclusive restaurant venue;
g) In-suite selection of fine liquors;
h) Complimentary access to the Level 18 - Rooftop Cabana Lounge pool area and national drinks (including alcoholic beverages) menu included.
6) The Riu Palace Resorts offer the ELITE CLUB. Elite Club rooms are available in the Riviera Nayarit, Mexico area and are specially reserved rooms with the best views. Some other benefits include:
a) Upon your arrival you will find a separate priority check-in queue;
b) When you enter your room you will find a personalised letter signed by the hotel manager;
c) A bottle of wine to celebrate the start of your vacation with in style;
d) gift with the Elite Club logo printed on it;
e) Access to a wider selection of drinks in the “Sports bar”;
f) Aromatherapy in your room; g) Late checkout, 1PM.
7) The Breathless Resort (Breathless Cancun Soul Resort & Spa, Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort & Spa) offers the XHALE CLUB that includes::
a) Personalized check-in and check-out with concierge;
b) Ocean front views from every suite;
c) Hot tub on balcony;
d) Nespresso coffee machine in room;
e) Personal Martini bar: Complimentary Belvedere Vodka (200ml), one cranberry juice, martini glasses, and a shaker;
f) Top-shelf spirits;
g) Complimentary afternoon hot and cold hors d’oeuvres;
h) Complimentary access to spa’s hydrotherapy circuit (once per stay);
i) Personal concierge service, pool concierge and bar service always a person in the lounge if you needed something;
j) Exclusive infinity rooftop pool with ocean and Cancun skyline views;
k) Exclusive access to Purple Rooftop Bar serving premium spirits; Exclusive breakfast service at Silk City.
8) Starting in 2023, Sandals began the Sandals 2.0 era, infusing more modern design, a stronger sense of place and new food and beverage strategies into the Sandals experience.
The first Sandals resort that embodied the new Sandals 2.0 Concept was the Curacao Sandals property. The Curacao Sandals resort now offer their new, "Dine Out Credit" for local restaurants along with a stylish MINI Cooper! Specifically, guests staying in Sandals Royal Curacao‘s Kurason Island Suites and Awa Seaside Bungalows can explore the colorful island of Curacao in a stylish and sporty MINI Cooper as part of their vacation. In regards to dining, hotel guests can venture out to eight local Curacao restaurants, and four local Bahamian restaurants with a $250 dine out credit.
The second Sandals resort that embodied the new Sandals 2.0 Concept was the Sandals Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, Sandal's newest resort which opened up in April 2024. Some of the unique features of this outstanding resort include:
a) Overwater Villas: There’s no better place to feel a connection to the Caribbean than perched above its crystal-clear waters. These exceptional villas are where nature’s beauty meet life’s little luxuries—featuring a spacious bedroom with see-through glass floors, a Tranquility Soaking Tub, and hanging daybed. Or take your ocean gazing to the second-floor deck that’s truly dedicated to the spectacular sea views;
b) Swim-up Suites: The swim-up suites offer the perfect relaxing getaway—where you only need step outside onto your patio to be at water’s edge. Enjoy the comforts of your spacious suite with its king-size bed, full walk-in closet, and expansive bathroom. Then slip outside to lounge by the swim-up pool or take a dip in your Tranquility Soaking Tub.
c) Explore Diving in Saint Vincent & the Grenadines: The diving in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is some of the best in the Caribbean. Visibility is regularly 100 feet or more due to the island’s heavy lava-laced sand. Here you will find rugged cliffs, sheer drop offs and some of the world’s best forests of black coral. “Bat Cave” is perfect for underwater photographers. There wide range of marine life, including reef sharks, sea horses, tarpon, hawksbill turtles, harlequin pipefish, bat fish, basket stars and damsel fish.
d) BUCCAN, Sandal's First Communal-Style Restaurant: Learn the history of 'Three Stone' cooking. The centerpiece of Buccan is the hearth and its fire. We will guide you through local 'VINCY' ingredients, from the sea and the local farms. Sip as the locals do on different rums and mixes.
e) Pools. Yes, there are swim-up pools but there are many other options, such as an infinity pool overlooking the beach, or a quiet pool (shaped like a heart) around the villa area.
9) Set on a pristine, breathtaking beach and surrounded by lush, tropical jungle— the Hilton La Romana All-Inclusive Adults Only coastal resort coastal has earned the Blue Flag Beach Certification, a world-renowned eco-label for meeting strict environmental, educational and safety-related standards.
Say YES to a DESTINATION WEDDING on beautiful Playa Bayahibe, one of the Dominican Republic’s most intimate, secluded, and uncrowded beaches. This resort offers SPECIAL Premium areas and Butler Service. This resort is located in the La Romana area of the Dominican Republic, around 45 minutes away from the Punta Cana airport.
Featuring over-water pool cabanas, seaside massages, and swim-up bars, this exquisite palm-fringed Adults-Only resort is made for outdoor lounging. This freshly renovated resort features 356 new guest rooms and suites, a new lobby, new restaurantsand bars, and a wide range of activities on land and water. This resort is also minutes from four of the Dominican Republic’s premier championship golf courses including Casa de Campo.
The food is the best part of the stay. A La Carte Dining is superb. The restaurant, Sakura Teppanyaki is unreal and the Noor Restaurant offers an incredible Filet Mignon. For excursions, you can book a day trip to Catalina Island. You can see turtles, lobster, octopus, and angel fish. The premium and butler service are amazing. You will be surprised with coconuts, cocktails and gifts to take home, such as rare rum. There is also a Premium Area Pool and Premium Area Beach.
10) The Zoëtry blends the Greek words “Zoe” (life) and “Poetry” (artful creations), or art of life. At Zoëtry Montego Bay Jamaica, retreat to a boutique haven that envelops you in the luxury, privacy and freedom you deserve. Relish in life’s unhurried pleasures with the highest level of personal service. With Zoëtry Endless Privileges®, Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts are committed to re-imagining the all-inclusive experience to be intimate, personal, and centered around your well-being.
With Endless Privileges, all this and more is included with our compliments for your stay including:
a) Authentic, gourmet cuisine with organic ingredients and beverage selections;
b) Bottle of sparkling wine and fresh fruit daily;
c) 24-hour private in-suite dining;
d) Limitless international and domestic top-shelf liquors;
e) 24-hour concierge;
f) Maid service three times daily;
g) 24-hour laundry service;
h) 20-minute wellness experience and daily afternoon teatime with live plant infusions.
11) Situated in the heart of Mexico's Riviera Nayarit, the Armony Marival Resort & Spa Punta de Mita resort is a one stop shop for rest, relaxation, healing, fun and sun. This resort is a sanctuary of elegance, peace, and luxury. Beginning April 1, the resort has transitioned from an adults-only experience to a family-friendly paradise.
Special Promotion – Kids Stay Free! Valid for bookings with travel dates between April 1 and October 31, 2025 (Blackout Dates: July 18 to August 16, 2025.
a) Overview
Once settled in to your cozy room, wander down to the vast ocean, take in the mountains, walk the sandy beach and listen to the waves. The whales do not disappoint. They appear daily, slapping their tails against the water as if to say hello. Your building may share a semi-private outdoor pool called the Cañada pool. It overlooks the Sierra Madre so it is an oasis of tranquility.
b) Wellness Program
This resort is known for its bespoke Daily Wellness Program. Some of the highlights include:
- Yoga class every day and other modalities like Breathwork and Reiki, all led by Amy Rogers (NRG2GO). Amy is so passionate and intentional in every class she leads.
- Yoga class, meditation, and breathwork in front of a perfect tree or under the Vent pavilion with the Canadian professional instructor Rozelle (NRG2GO) every morning, which makes for a perfect start before indulging in the best breakfasts an All-Inclusive resort could offer.
- Yoga class and Forest Bathing classes with Tracey (NRG2GO) are an absolute delight.
- Morning yoga/stretching with Nicole (NRG2GO).
- Aqua class with Canadian instructor Cheryl (NRG2GO).
- Watsu and Singing Bowls class with Victor and Wendy (Gestación Emocional Armónica) is like nothing you will experience. Instructors are very gentle and kind in the process!
- Tai Chi with Andre (NRG2GO) plus Ice Bath Challenge, Hydrotherapy Circuit, and Massage-spa.
c) Entertainment
Evening entertainment with the fire show, live music, and dancing is awesome. DJ Willy gets the party started with great music at the pool. Highlight is Fashion Friday with the entertainment team Oliver, Brenda, Andre and Memo.
d) Restaurants and Food
There are 6 different bars and restaurants to choose from. Each has their own cuisine, decor, wonderful landscapes, national and international dishes, refreshing cocktails, and sweet desserts. The Floating Breakfast at Marival Armony was one of the most luxurious of any All-Inclusive resort. We had the floating breakfast at the Cañada pool. The Floating Breakfast was packed coffees, freshly squeezed sweet orange juice, a healthy green juice along with eggs, pancakes, chilaquiles, yogurt and fruit, pastries, toast and more.
e) Spa
Another wow factor about Marival Armony is Melange World Spa. There are nine different treatment rooms that you can enjoy including Bali, Turkey, Italy, America, India, Russia, Japan, Thailand and Mexico. Each treatment room is unique and each offers a unique treatment specific to the country. You can enjoy 15 minute spa “Clinics” as part of the activities offered by the resort.
12) The only unfortunate thing about Le Blanc All-Adults resorts is that there are only two locations. Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun, a AAA 5 Star Property, is in the Hotel Zone, is about 15 minutes from the airport, and the beaches are consistently beautiful. Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos is about 30 minutes from the SJD airport. It is directly between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. The Le Blanc resorts are part of the nine property Palace Resorts group.
Le Blanc is the place to go if you're looking to relax, be pampered, and not lift a finger while you're there! It is definitely not a party vibe/scene so don’t expect that. If you are a foodie looking for an all inclusive option this is by far the best we've had in the all-inclusive space.
Le Blanc specializes in destination weddings and offers large ceremony venues, outdoor venues, and indoor venues in addition to offering its in house "Palace Productions" service which handles everything from food, beverage, flowers, photos, and facilities.
Five Important things that Stand Out about Le Blanc:
a) Unlimited Golf: Escape to the ultimate golfing retreat with unlimited access to the prestigious Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses. You will enjoy unlimited rounds when you book a one-night say for up to two guests.
b) Complementary hydrotherapy: Take advantage of the complementary hydrotherapy circuit daily. Just book early with them.
c) Butler Service: Butlers will pack your suitcase. The Butler will set up all of your transportation. Butlers fill up your tub with warm water and rose pedals and make dinner reservations for you.
d) Top flight restaurants: The Habibi Lebanese restaurant is absolute perfection food wise and the Ocean restaurant is a stunning ambiance. Also, at most all-inclusive resorts, the wine list for included wines is non-existent. At Le Blanc, there is a respectable list of wines that are included, as well as a list of wines that would cost extra and they are all presented beautifully on an iPad.
e) Dinner Reservations: You must make dinner reservations and if you do not cancel prior to 24 hours you would be charged.
13) In the Dominican Republic, Princess Hotels & Resorts takes its All-Inclusive offerings to new levels with the recently renovated Grand Bávaro Princess, the new Platinum (Club) at Grand Bávaro Princess, and the also-new Princess Family Club Bávaro. The Grand Bávaro Princess is geared to guests that want to enjoy a tropical paradise in luxurious accommodations, and the Princess Family Club Bávaro is tailored more towards families with children that want to have a vacation where everyone is entertained.
Princess Family Club
Princess Family Club has guestrooms that accommodate up to five guests, which is great for those large families, and some have direct access to the pool. Families staying at the Princess Family Club Bávaro have exchange privileges with the Grand Bávaro Princess. This is a great option for multigenerational families and groups that want to vacation together, but not necessarily all stay at the Family Club.
Princess Family Club also includes pools with water games and slides, as well as a kids club. It has an exclusive buffet restaurant especially set up for families and all the amenities a family needs while traveling – cribs, bunk beds, microwaves, toys to keep the kids happy, stroller service, and a children’s bathroom kit with mini bathrobes and slippers, etc.
Princess Platinum (Club)
An even higher level of all-inclusive offering is the Platinum (Club) at Grand Bávaro Princess. The Platinum (Club) is an exclusive concept at the Grand Bávaro Princess for guests that book the Platinum (Club) Suites.
Extra amenities of the Platinum (Club) include:
a) An exclusive Platinum lounge;
b) Platinum Beach club;
c) Premium drinks and three exclusive restaurants. The Grand Bávaro Princess resort offers eleven general audience restaurants of which nine restaurants require reservations. In addition, there are three Platinum Club Restaurants which include: a) SOHO Restaurant (International Cuisine); b) PGB Restaurant (specializing in grilled dishes); c) Chopin Restaurant (Exclusive buffet selections);
d) Access to the Princess Family Club Bávaro;
e) 10% discount on all Spa treatments.
14) ATELIER Playa Mujeres is an All-Inclusive 5+ Star Resort for Adults offering a fantastic concept inspired by Mexican Art and Design. Its innovative atmosphere blends harmoniously with the mesmerizing natural landscape of Playa Mujeres, set between the crystalline waters of the Caribbean and a magnificent golf course.
The 593 suites feature a dazzling design with marble and wood accents, one-of-a-kind amenities, as well as avant-garde style furniture, complemented with jaw-dropping views of the golf course and the Caribbean Sea.
The ATELIER Playa Mujeres offers its own INSPIRA SUITES that offer:
a) Suites (Junior Suite Swim Out, Junior Suite Oceanfront, Romance Suite, Master Suite Ocean Front);
b) Butler Service;
c) Access to exclusive areas within the resort;
d) Priority on restaurant reservations;
e) Bar with Premium liquors;
f) Hydrotherapy included I per room;
g) Access to the VIP MERA Business Lounge;
h) Green Fee (7-night stay);
i) One dinner at Maria Dolores (7-night stay);
j) 20% discount at the hotel Boutique;
k) Ocean front property;
l) Premium location within the 18-hole Greg Norman Golf Course;
m) Wine cellars with diverse international options;
n) Art and design of contemporary Mexican art;
o) All-suite property with spacious terraces;
p) 70% ocean view suites.
15) Newly launched in March 2022, Club Med Seychelles is a five-star resort on its own island. Located 4 km off the east coast of Mahé, Sainte Anne is the largest of eight islands in Ste Anne Marine National Park in the Indian Ocean.
There are 291 guest rooms including deluxe suites with private pools surrounded by stunning beaches. Meandering trails lead you into dense forests and wild jungle terrain, where you can pick mangoes from the branches and swing from the vines of the giant banyan tree. Snow-white frangipani’s are dotted on the lush foliage and the palms are laden with bright orange coconuts.
Several amenities at the Club Med Seychelles include:
a) The ever-smiling Sanjai who is our personal host and man Friday, on hand to help with any request. He takes us on a private tour of the island, checks in on us daily, joins us for lunch and even ensuring we reach home safely at the end of our trip.
b) Deluxe suites where you have a choice of a garden view or your own private pool.
The junior suite has two large rain showers and a third external one, as well as a standalone tub replete with Cinq Mondes bath and body products. Just a short walk away from reception, the Zen pool and the spa, the suites are centrally located on the resort.
c) For those seeking next level luxury for the whole family, there’s also the palatial presidential suite, a decadent mansion styled home in a secluded spot of the island that comes with your own executive chef and personal aide and jacuzzies with stunning clifftop views.
d) There are two main all-inclusive restaurants for evening dining, Turtle Cove -the international buffet and The Reef, while the Reef Beach lounge serves up fresh salads and barbecues at lunch times.
You are spoilt for choice at the international buffet with a glorious array of gastronomic delights from the extensive choice of salad starters, cold cuts and freshly baked breads to the world food fare comprising slow roasted pork with all the trimmings, lamb rack, tomahawk steaks, tender Moroccan lamb, delicately sweetened with apricots, Mexican tacos, sweet and sour chicken, perfectly cooked pastas and pizza and traditional creole dishes such as kidney beans and rice, fried okra, jackfruit curry, and spiced lentils for a taste of the local cuisine, with no end of pickles and tangy sauces to accompany every dish.
For a more formal a la carte dining experience, book a table at The Reef on a secluded corner of the beach under the stars. The menu is refined, featuring fishcakes with giant prawns and vegetarian alternatives of beautifully prepared vegetable stacks, the desserts are artfully presented and delicious. With stunning sea views and the mainland illuminated and twinkling in the distance, the toes in the sand experience offers the perfect romantic setting for an intimate dinner by moonlight.
e) The Club Med team have a full entertainment schedule with nightly shows, theatrical performances, parties and performances. By evening, the main pool is transformed into a stunning setting for a magical night inspired by The Greatest Showman. A singer balances on a makeshift stage and floats on the water as she performs a beautiful rendition of a classic show tune. An aerial acrobat elegantly writhes in a large metal hoop overhead while a dancer twirls burning batons, the flames encircling him.
f) Guests can join the botanical tour which showcases the islands natural sights. Richard Jean, a local conservationist, leads the botanical tour, where you can discover the endemic trees such as the takamaka tree, and palms found only in the Seychelles, and the numerous fruits that grow in the natural habitat from mangoes, tamarind, the purple and yellow passionfruit, to cashews and almonds.
Meanwhile, the very authoritative archery instructor named Barracuda oversees proceedings with care and precision. And if you’re good enough you can participate in the archery tournament.
g) You can learn the intricacies of sailing in a class or simply set off with one of the team for a quick trip towards Mahe, where, if you’re lucky, you might spot the silver shark or just take in a full view of the island in all its splendor as you bob along soaked by the salty water spray.
16) Cayo Levantado Resort:
This All-inclusive resort paradise is located on a private island off in Samana Bay. This resort is the real deal. Run, swim, paddleboard to experience the best 5 Star experience in the Dominican Republic.
Several amenities at the Cayo Levantado Resort include:
a) Arrival at the Resort: The resort sits majestically on an enchanting island within an island paradise. After a brief and relaxing boat trip, a Victorian-inspired pier welcomes you and invites you to enter the leafy palm grove that sways to the beat of the breeze. As soon as you disembark, our personal "Ambassador" will guide you to connect with the island and its wonderful possibilities from the first moment.
b) The Lounge at the Pier:
Just beautiful and wonderful service. The quick boat ride over ( on safe and easily accessible catamaran) and golf cart ride to the lobby where your concierge greats you. Be on the beach by 11:30AM and stay until 4ish having the first of many great meals and some fine Cava in the pool.
c) Cocktails: Nothing off label. From Grey Goose to Don Julio, it is included.
d) The Spa: Enjoy a relaxing combo of water treatments and massage followed by workout in their start of art gym.
e) The Restaurants: Lobster tails/ Salmon/ Steaks/Sushi were outstanding and breakfast is expansive and basically customizable. Food allergies and custom diets are accommodated.
f) Concierges: Professional yet personal and most importantly genuine.
g) Yoga: Enjoy Yubarta yoga and sound bath offerings.
h) Resort Grounds: Waking up to the sound of birds all around is truly a moving experience.
17) RIU Palace Costa Rica Resort:
The Hotel Riu Palace Costa is located in Guanacaste, Costa Rica on the edge of the beach of Matapalo. This hotel has four swimming pools (one with a swim-up bar), jacuzzi, gym, sauna and a wellness center "Renova Spa" with different treatments and massages. onal thanks to our chefs, who prepare a variety of dishes, from classic to the most exotic.
The hotel offers a variety of activities on the beautiful beaches such as diving or fishing in the Pacific waters, ecotourism in
the volcanic areas, and during the day several programs of entertainment for all ages, whether in family or friends. If your favorite sport is golf, the Four Seasons Golf Club has fantastic views over the sea. Guanacaste is less tropical, humid and lush than the rest of the country.
Some of the highlights of the resort are:
a) Food - we all enjoyed the food here. The buffets were HUGE and there is no way you couldn't find something enjoyable to eat - lots of selection and it was all cooked properly. The Papagayo became the steak house in the evenings - wonderful, excellent steak and lobster, the Lanfora Italian restaurant was just as good, and was open at lunch time so you had somewhere to eat before leaving. Tokio Japanese restaurant was also good, but not as good as the Krystal Fusion.
b) Resort - clean and well maintained!! Not far from the airport (20 miles away) which was a huge bonus.
c) Room - no complaints! It was large, clean and the fridge was stocked daily. Coffee machine and liquor was supplied. Towels were always refreshed.
d) Beach - it's a public beach so yes, there are locals on it. All were friendly! Lots of chairs and shade as well. Bring down bananas and grapes to feed the monkeys that are to the left of the beach.
e) Excursions: Waterpark - we loved having this option! so much fun and its right on property. Diamante Eco Adventure Park - Don't miss it. Just3 minutes away by car, this was one of the highlights of our trip. All sorts of local wildlife can be seen.
Should I Consult with Online Reviews vs The Travel Agency Near Me?
If you decide to consult or read online travel advisory websites such as TripAdvisor, Travelocity, and Yelp, please take into consideration six major potential issues with these online reviews:
1) No one is verifying or validating these reviews as being written by ordinary customers who stayed at the hotel. Competitors can easily write fake negative reviews which discourages future guests from going to that hotel/resort. It is often a red flag when you read one highly negative review surrounded by dozens of great reviews.
2) Often times, a guest of the resort may take serious issue with something that may sound trivial to most guests. Some customers will vehemently complain about things like the color of the bath towels. Others will single out a server at a resort for not smiling at them every morning. Why just the other day, we were reading about how some guests at a popular amusement park had taken serious issue with a food item, roasted turkey legs, at a popular amusement park. It turns out these guests didn't like the taste of turkey legs at the amusement park or anywhere else. And they wanted to let everyone know.
3) Some guests will leave negative reviews if the hotel staff did not give them something which they did not pay for. Things like complimentary transport to/from the airport or entrance into a premium part of the resort or demanding free upgrades are often sources of conflict and resentment. Another source of conflict are classes of service such as Butler Service which is not part of any standard package at the vast majority of resorts. In several cases, some guests complained that their friends received Butler Service while they did not. In reality, the guests who did not pay for Butler Service did not receive Butler Service.
4) Old reviews. Keep in mind that resorts are always upgrading and modernizing so the review from 2 years ago that took issue with outdated rooms may be invalid today. That is why the travel agency near me such as Seven Seas Travel constantly stays in touch with its travel partners and recent guests to check on various resorts around the world. Several times a year, the best travel agency near me such as Seven Seas Travel will personally visit these same resorts.
5) A handful of mentions about poor service or poor facilites spread over thousands of reviews. Just the other day, we were working with a client who complained about the fact that she had read that the resort we had recommended had issues with "stained bedsheets". Upon detailed review, we found 3 complaints about this issue spread out over 14,500 reviews over several years. Half of those negative reviews were several years old. Is it likely that that future guests will have this issue? Not very likely from our viewpoint.
6) Deilberately Vague Reviews. We just saw this one the other day on Facebook where a guest of a very high end cruise line decried the level of service as being subpar. "We are paying top dollar and not getting the services that should give us. The organization is not respecting loyalty nor are they prepared to be flexible". No details of any kind were offered. (Buyer beware!)
Is Cancun safe for tourists in 2024 or 2025?
Answer #1: Covid Testing: There is no testing requirement to come to Cancun. If you are a resident of the United States you DON'T need a Covid test for returning home. Canada doesn't need Covid test for re-entry neither. There are no travel restrictions for air or sea travel to Mexico from the US or Canada, no quarantine is required. Cancun properties run routine temperature-checks, disinfect guest luggage, require resort staff to wear face masks, disinfect plastic luncheon menus, while some resorts utilize contactless QR codes for ordering.
Answer# 2: Criminal Activity and Personal Safety: The vast majority of Cancun resorts are roughly 60-65 miles away from the Cancun airport. There is a main highway going and from the airport with sizable traffic as with most cities. However once one gets close to the resort area, security gets rapidly beefed up and increased. Most resorts have their own separate private roads which lead to the resort. The private roads have several security checkpoints staffed by 24X7 security personnel. The average person is not getting anywhere near the resort unless they have legitimate business there.
Who are the best known online travel agents (OTAs)?
According to the publication, 'Familyvacationcritic.com', the top 7 online travel agents (OTAs) for All-Inclusive vacation beach packages are:
Apple Vacations
Cheap Caribbean
Tripadvisor
Travelzoo
Orbitz
Liberty Travel
BookIt.com
What are advantages of using travel agency near me vs. online travel companies?
Proprietary Information:
The travel agency near me believe it or not, has access to information unavailable to you to get better deals. Additionally, they receive daily deals via e-mails and faxes that cannot always be found on the Internet. The best travel agency near me also can make phone calls and have direct communication with resorts and hotels to bargain for better deals.
Safety When Things Go Wrong:
Travel agencies like Seven Seas Travel are YOUR ADVOCATE when things go wrong. Some of the things that can go wrong when traveling include missed flights, room issues at resorts, lost baggage, and emergency medical issues.
Travel agents will go to bat for you to fix those issues and save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars if problems occur. Travel agents can signficantly reduce flight rebooking fees if a flight is missed. Travel agents like Seven Seas Travel will actively pursue refunds at no cost to you on your behalf when dealing with resorts and cruise companies.
Payment Plans:
Keep in mind that the vast majority of online retail travel booking websites want all their money upfront via credit card or debit card. Deposits are not generally accepted. Travel agencies like Seven Seas Travel offer convenient payment plans which allow you to pay a small 5-25% deposit and then pay the final payment 30-90 days before the departure date.
Where is the BEST PLACE to vacation All-Inclusive?
Answer: Opinions vary on the best resort to vacation all-inclusive. Generally speaking, prices and the best values are going to be where there are many all-inclusive beach resorts in a specific area. Travel agencies like Seven Seas Travel have sent thousands to these locations over the years. We have written about these locations extensively. Specific popular all-Inclusive beach destination and islands that can provide the best values include:
CLICK LINKS BELOW:
Antiqua All-Inclusive
Aruba All-Inclusive
Bahamas All-Inclusive
Barbados All-Inclusive
Cancun All-Inclusive
Cabo San Lucas All-Inclusive
Costa Rica All-Inclusive
Dominican Republic
Jamaica All-Inclusive
Puerta Vallarta All-Inclusive
St. Kitts All-Inclusive
St. Martin All-Inclusive
Turks and Caicos All-Inclusive
What is the best website for vacation packages?
Answer: For the large online travel agencies, the publication, 'TripSavvy' has rated the 8 Best online travel agencies (OTAs) of 2021 as follows:
Best Overall: Booking.com
"Booking.com takes care of every aspect of your vacation, offering tours, activities, and even airport taxis."
Best Budget: Skyscanner
"Skyscanner routinely delivered cheaper prices (sometimes by over $100) than the major OTAs."
Best Package Deals: Expedia
"Expedia is a particularly good option for those wanting pay for flights, accommodation, and car rental in one go."
Best for Reviews: TripAdvisor
"Travel services offered by TripAdvisor include hotels and vacation rentals, tours and tickets, flights, and restaurant reservations."
Best in Asia: Agoda
"The company has the best price guarantee that offers to match any price on the web or refund the difference."
Best in Europe: Lastminute.com
"You can book several Europe-specific travel services as well, including Eurostar tickets, and even theater tickets."
Best Secret Deals: Hotwire
"Vacation packages are offered as well, giving you the opportunity to bundle two or more options for greater overall savings."
Most Innovative: Kiwi.com
The Nomad feature helps you to find the cheapest route for a multi-destination trip and also offers pre-planned itineraries."
Can you make payments on vacation through a travel agent?
Answer: Keep in mind that the vast majority of online retail travel booking websites want all their money upfront. This is not the case with travel agents. If your trip is at least 30-40 days out, you may only be required to put down a deposit of 10% to 25% of the trip and then pay the final balance 30-120 days before the flight or cruise.
This is especially helpful when booking in the fourth quarter for next summer's vacation. You can save hundreds if not thousands of dollars by depositing 3-11 months ahead of your trip and then paying the balance a month before trip departure. Travel agents do NOT charge interest on travel payment plans so this might be just what you are looking for if you want to book ahead for next summer or spring.
How much should an All-Inclusive beach vacation cost?
Answer: Vacation costs are one of the biggest gimmicks of the travel industry. Many secondary online travel agent sites offer almost miraculous bargain-based prices for all-inclusive beach vacations. Keep in mind many of these prices require you to travel in a very constrained time window and stay at 3 star or lower-star beach resorts. Sometimes these so called bargains do not even include airfares or leave out transportation to and from the airport.
That being said, a budget of $1,300/person is a good starting price for a 5-night all-inclusive beach vacation. Prices can move up to thousands of dollars per person from there. One last note of caution is to beware of beach resorts or properties that throw in a lot of 'resort credits' into the price. If you are not going to use a lot of those services or products covered by those 'resort credits', then you may wish to look elsewhere.
What is the cheapest month to go on vacation?
Answer: Most travel destinations have 2-3 pricing plans based upon what is called the High, Medium, and Low Season. Travelers looking to save money are advised to travel in the Medium and Low Season to avoid Peak or High Season prices and sometimes unwanted crowds. Hundreds if not thousands of dollars can be saved in just airline costs alone.
For Caribbean and Mexican all-inclusive beach travel, March is probably the HIGHEST COST month to travel. July is often the second highest cost month of the year. Spring Break is often the time when hotels and airlines charge the most.
Ask yourself, is there something going on in July or March that cannot be seen in mid-September (after Labor Day) or early October? If one does not have school-age children to plan around, this option is even more feasible and can provide even more significant benefits as the crowds are gone and one can experience more in less time at a much lower price.
Where is the cheapest tropical place to vacation?
Answer: Opinions vary on the cheapest tropical place to vacation. Generally speaking, prices are going to be where there are many resorts in a specific area. Specific popular all-inclusive beach destinations that fit this requirement include Punta Cana (The Dominican Republic), Jamaica, Cabo San Lucas, Puerta Vallarta, and Cancun. Doing a short web search on some of the popular online travel agents (OTAs) reveals hundreds of all-inclusive beach resorts in the following Caribbean and Mexican locations:
CLICK LINKS BELOW:
Antiqua All-Inclusive
Aruba All-Inclusive
Bahamas All-Inclusive
Barbados All-Inclusive
Cancun All-Inclusive
Cabo San Lucas All-Inclusive
Costa Rica All-Inclusive
Dominican Republic
Jamaica All-Inclusive
Puerta Vallarta All-Inclusive
St. Kitts All-Inclusive
St. Martin All-Inclusive
Turks and Caicos All-Inclusive
Are Costco vacation packages a good deal?
Answer: Over the last few years, Costco has become a haven for good deals for travelers. On the flip side, there is a long list of very unpleasant stories documented on various consumer websites that have resulted when booking with Costco. If everything goes right and you have accurate information on what resort to go to, Costco might be for you. Keep in mind if things do go wrong, you are on your own to deal with airlines, van services, hotel chains, cruise companies, and other service providers. Your leverage is limited as you represent one customer vs. the travel agent whose travel company supplier represents hundreds of thousands of travelers and thus has infinitely more leverage.
Are All-Inclusive beach vacation packages worth it?
Answer: Opinions vary on this subject. Many beach resorts offer all-inclusive rates which are far higher than their normal breakfast included-European Plan rates. Often times if you are not a serious drinker or don't think you will eat that much, you are better off not going with the all-inclusive beach rate. Vacation packages which include air, transfers, hotel, and resort fees are often far less expensive than buying all the components one by one.
One last area of caution is rental cars. Since mid 2021, rental car companies have raised prices substantially by 25-50% or more. If you don't think you will use that rental car every day, you may wish to stick with far cheaper public transportation or ride-sharing services. You can also save yourself daily parking fees at the resort of your choice if you forego a rental car.
How do I get the best deal on All-Inclusive beach vacation packages?
Answer: Opinions vary on this subject. The best travel agency near me, believe it or not, has access to information unavailable to you to get better deals. Additionally, they receive daily deals via e-mails and faxes from major travel suppliers that cannot always be found on the Internet. The best travel agency also can make phone calls and have direct communication with resorts and hotels to bargain for better deals. The best travel agency is going to contact you when these deals arise.
These same travel agencies have access to wholesale rates for international air travel. This can save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars if you are traveling with a group on an international trip or vacation.
What is the cheapest vacation package website?
Answer: Opinions vary. A full list of online travel agents (OTAs) is as follows:
Venere.com
Priceline.com
GetYourGuide.com
LastMinute.com
Kayak.com
Agoda.com
Booking.com
Trip.com
Skiplagged.com
Hotwire.com
Travelocity.com
Trip.com
HotelTonight.com
Expedia.com
EDreams.com
Are All-Inclusive beach resorts worth it?
Answer: Opinions vary on this subject. Vacation packages which include air, transfers, hotel, and resort fees are often far less expensive than buying all the components one by one. HOWEVER, many resorts offer all-inclusive beach rates which are far higher than their normal breakfast included-European Plan rates. Often times if you are not a serious drinker or don't think you will eat that much or dine at premium restuarants, you are better off not going with the all-inclusive rate.
One last note of caution is to beware of resorts or properties that throw in a lot of 'resort credits' into their all-inclusive price. If you are not going to use a lot of those services or products covered by those 'resort credits', another resort may be a better choice for you. You are going to pay for those 'resort credits' whether you use them or not as the daily room rate absorts those 'resort credits' into the total price.
What is the safest All-Inclusive beach resort?
Answer: Opinions vary on the subject. Generally speaking, the higher-rated the hotel beach property is, the safer it is. Top name brands like Secrets, Melia, Breezes, Hard Rock Cafe, Palace Resorts, Club Med, Zoetry, Beaches, and Sandals can add a certain degree of safety to your all-inclusive beach vacation.
Where are some of the TOP All-Inclusive beach resorts?
Answer: Mostly in the Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico. All-inclusive beach resorts in Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, and Turks-Caicos usually offer the best and top shelf all-inclusive resorts. Florida, Europe, Hawaii, Alaska, and Las Vegas are generally not known for all-inclusive resorts. Club Med is perhaps the one exception to that rule. Club Med offers all inclusive beach properties all over the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, the Indian Ocean/Asia, and Canada.
Top all-inclusive beach estinations that can provide the best values include:
CLICK LINKS BELOW:
Antiqua All-Inclusive
Aruba All-Inclusive
Bahamas All-Inclusive
Barbados All-Inclusive
Cancun All-Inclusive
Cabo San Lucas All-Inclusive
Costa Rica All-Inclusive
Dominican Republic
Jamaica All-Inclusive
Puerta Vallarta All-Inclusive
St. Kitts All-Inclusive
St. Martin All-Inclusive
Turks and Caicos All-Inclusive
Why choose an All-Inclusive beach resort?
Answer: It is a lot of work to research travel destinations and resorts, which is why an all-inclusive beach vacation can be a good option for those times when all the travel prep just seems too overwhelming. Everything will be taken care of and paid ahead of time, and you won't need to keep reaching for cash or credit cards during your trip.
All-inclusive beach packages include food and drinks at your resort, so if you eat elsewhere, you'll be paying extra on top of what you've already paid out. The same goes for tours, excursions, and activities OUTSIDE your resort. Read the fine print to fully understand what's included and what isn't. Sometimes things like spa services and "top shelf liquor" are an extra cost. In many all-inclusive beach resorts, non motorized water sports are included while motorized watersports are not.
One note on outside tours and excursions is that you may be able to save some money on them if you purchase them ahead of time when you purchase your entire travel beach package. Some of these same tours and excursions also may require reservations days and weeks ahead of time.
You may to comb through the info and read reviews about dining options to see if included food choices and restaurant styles (like buffet versus sit-down) will work for the whole family and if you need to make any dining reservations in advance. You can also ask our all-inclusive beach travel agency to work with you on dining options or have them reach out to the resort's concierge services or butler service departments.
For other travel agency articles of interest, please check out some of other articles:
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