All-inclusives are not for everyone, but they can be a terrific way to honeymoon, offering the best of all worlds for both the bride and groom. You can relax and / or have all the adventures you want, without having to worry about whether or not you can really “afford” it with the remaining cash in your wallet (often vastly depleted after a wedding!).
The nice thing about true All-inclusives is that there are no hidden costs. Do read the fine print though about what really is included as there could be some extra expenses such as some off property activities, spa treatments, or specialty activities such as scuba diving or golf. With many all-inclusives, watersports, tennis, kayaks, etc. are available at no extra cost. Some resorts, calling them ULTRA all-inclusives do include things like SCUBA, champagne parties, yoga classes, and even off property tours to local tourist attractions and popular activities.
Many All-inclusive resorts are destinations in and of themselves! You could theoretically spend an entire week at the right resort and never leave! However, you are free to go wherever you want and explore. And in my opinion, if you’re going to a fabulous destination, you should get out and explore! Why fork over the bucks to fly to St. Lucia if you only stay at the resort – but, that is a personal thing. Many resorts offer concierge services to help book off property excursions for you.
Contrary to what some may have heard about the old Club Med Days/Ways, honeymooners are not herded from one activity to another. You can choose to do as much or as little as you want. However, if you choose to participate in activities and tours, the resort makes it easy for you. You may also find that you meet other honeymooners and make new friends!
Do check out the food options available in the resort you are interested as food is one area that varies widely in all-inclusives. Many resorts have buffet only options but do offer special event options and menus throughout the week. Other resorts, like Sandals, offer several different restaurants within the resort, many with a la carte menu choices.
One important thing to consider…. If you want a resort that is couples only for your honeymoon, be sure to choose a couples only resort as some-all inclusives do allow children and families.
Remember when you are pricing all-inclusive resorts, the pricing might seem high but remember that is partly because you are paying for everything up front . A good exercise is to “break it down” to an a la carte approach and then add it all up. (i.e. if it wasn’t an all inclusive, what would I expect to pay for the hotel each night, 3 meals a day, alcohol, tips, etc.) Once you’ve totaled it all up, you will usually find that the all-inclusive is actually a great value.
And DO remember that even if you choose an all-inclusive resort, you can still use HoneyLuna’s honeymoon registry (www.honeyluna.com). You can “break down” the total package cost into manageable and tangible gifts on your registry such as $100 contribution to the night in your beachfront honeymoon suite, or dinner for two at one of the resort’s restaurants. You can also include the activities and spa treatments that will cost you extra. Honeymoon registries are a great way to help you have the honeymoon of your dreams at a wonderful all-inclusive resort.
This article discusses all-inclusives in general. However, it is important to check out the details of each resort to understand what it is you really are purchasing for your honeymoon and what really is included in your all-inclusive. Every resort is different. Also, another recommendation is to check out the resorts you are interested in on www.tripadvisor.com and read the reviews of the resort posted by other honeymooners and travelers who have actually been there. You’ll find some interesting feedback (hopefully all good) on the food, the activities, the beaches, etc..
