The Caribbean islands are a haven for individuals, couples, and families looking for a superlative luxury vacation at affordable pricing. While a plethora of resorts and hotels in the Caribbean offer irresistible package deals for families, it would be a good idea to consider what really is included in those deals and if they are truly worth your monies.
To simplify the process for you, here is a list of 5 indispensable features to look out for in an all-inclusive family vacation in the Caribbean.
5 Must-Have Inclusions in All-Inclusive Family Caribbean Resorts
Family-friendly luxury accommodation
While every vacationer knows that luxury comes at a price, an all-inclusive stay at a luxury resort makes the experience affordable for families.
Whether you’re planning a long-awaited couple’s getaway or a holiday with the kids, the accommodation at the resort must meet all of your needs. A separate bedroom for children, a built-in kitchen, and ample living space are some essentials you may want to look for if traveling with children. Prefer a beachfront cottage or a pool-view room? State your preferences and a good resort will try to accommodate most if not all of your special requests.
Children’s Club / Kids’ Camp
Before you pay up, do consider if the resort has facilities that would keep your children happy and engaged during your stay. Traveling with teens? Check if the resort offers tailor-made experiences for this age group. Taking along a toddler? It would be nice to stay at a resort that has a nursery and play areas staffed with certified professionals. A family vacation should have something special for each family member, including the little ones.
The most important part of this research, however, is to find out if there are any separate charges for accessing these services.
Watersports and beach amenities
Of course, you can book at a resort without opting for the all-inclusive deals on offer. But would that mean you’ll end up paying separately for each of the activities? And wouldn’t that defeat the purpose of an affordable family vacation that’s also fun for all involved? Keeping the preferences of your fellow travelers in mind, look for a deal that includes the experiences your family is most likely to enjoy.
Some of the inclusions to look for are scuba diving, safe water, and land sports for all ages, entertainment events, and amenities available at the beach.
Entertainment and excursions
Any all-inclusive beach resort will have some level of entertainment built into the package; the difference, however, lies in what exactly is on offer. Some travelers love the idea of exploring a new place through sightseeing and excursions, and some simply want to unwind at the property itself.
What do you like to do? Does the resort offer specials for you and your loved ones? While you may enjoy a beach party or a jazz gig that runs late into the night, your tween would probably prefer a talent show, a storytelling session, or a theme-based event. Again, it’s important to confirm if these activities are included in your package.
Exclusions
Any seasoned family vacation planner will tell you how important it is to find out what is not included in your Caribbean holiday deal. For instance, entry fee to a tourist attraction or a historical/cultural site will most likely not be included. The same applies to special services and amenities such as concierge, butler service, lounge access, gaming zone access, golf, photography, live music and cultural events, and so forth.
So, to avoid the shock of discovering exclusions that you presumed were included in the agreed price, read the information a few times over, and if still in doubt, write to the shortlisted property and get written confirmation over email. This way, neither party will have to deal with the unpleasantness of a holiday experience gone sour over a minor issue.
Lastly, do remember that the best all inclusive family Caribbean resorts offer custom-made packages for families with varying interests and expectations. A luxury vacation at a resort worth its reputation will cost more than the average, mediocre experience at a second-grade property, but it will be well worth the extra cost.
The Caribbean has many beautiful, globally acclaimed resort properties, and having so many choices can get unnerving. To start with, it might be a good idea to make a list of your holiday package must-haves keeping in mind each family member. Then, based on your budget, go for an all-inclusive deal that best fits the bill for your kind of holiday—a holiday that makes everyone happy and does not burn your pocket.
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