10 Tips for Staying at an All-Inclusive Resort

In 2010, the hubs and I stayed at Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun, an all-inclusive resort, for our honeymoon. Since we left I have been wanting to stay at an all-inclusive resort again. It’s the easiest way to travel! It costs more, but everything is on-site and you don’t have to fool with restaurant reviews and scheduling activities. Plus you can schedule off-site excursions or trips to the spa at an additional cost.

Today I am sharing 10 tips for staying at an all-inclusive resort. Hope it’s helpful if you have been considering this form of travel. The hubs and I highly recommend it!

p.s. This post arrives just as we are taking off to Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica! Off to some relaxation. You won’t find me on social media, have to travel along via Snapchat (@r8d6g).

Pictures from our honeymoon

10 Tips for Staying at an All-Inclusive Resort

1. Airport transportation. Book transportation to and from the airport through the resort if possible and before you arrive. You will likely be traveling to a place you’re unfamiliar with and possibly with a different language. Be safe and use a reputable company.
2. Check dress codes. Before traveling, be sure to check the dress codes for the restaurants on-site and for any excursions you may be interested in booking. While you will likely be in a swimsuit for most of the trip, dinners require a more appropriate attire. (Example: Casual Elegance. Sneakers, tennis shoes or dress sandals (no flip-flops). Dress shirts with sleeves. Long pants required for men. No sleeveless shirts for men.
3. Lock up valuables. Many resorts provide a safe in the room, if not, talk with the front desk staff. When you arrive at your room lock up your valuables, including your passport and other travel documents. The last thing you want to deal with is lost items on your vacation.
4. Unplug. You are on vacation. Use this opportunity to unplug from the rest of the world. Shut off your email, social media, and Netflix. You are there to relax and to spend time with whoever you’re traveling with. Heck, read a book! When was the last time you did that?
5. Try free classes and enjoy the entertainment. Take advantage of the free classes/activities. You have already paid for them so why not try yoga for the first time or paddle boarding. Secrets resorts provided nightly entertainment. It’s a great chance to get out of your room and enjoy the company of others after dinner.
6. Try new food. Each of the restaurants on-site will serve a different cuisine. Why not explore new dishes or desserts. If you don’t like what you initially order there is always room service later!
7. Take an excursion. Although being at an all-inclusive resort has it’s perks, unless you sign up for an off-site excursion you won’t get to experience the culture of the area you are visiting or see the sites. Look over (and even book) the excursion options ahead of time so you know how to dress and what to bring.
8. Wake up early. I know this sounds odd for a vacation, but while everyone else is sleeping in you get to enjoy the sunrise, the quiet and tranquility of the resort, and even claim the best lounge chair or cabana! Always time for a nap later 😉
9. Medicine. In addition to packing any prescription medicine you may need, remember to take over the counter medicine. Yes, there will be some over the counter medicines sold on-site, but you will likely pay a lot for them. Come prepared! Itchy bug bites? Susceptible to stomach aches? Headaches? Sunburns?
10. Tip. Plan to take small bills with you. You don’t know how much a few extra dollars means to the bellhop, waitstaff, bartenders, and custodians. Keep in mind, some resorts include tips in the up front cost, but not all. So ask.

Some pictures of the resort we’re headed to! Source

 

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