Before leaving for your amazing vacation, there are 5 things you should know before you go! All inclusive’s are awesome and very relaxing, but there is always fine print some where, and most people miss this and it could be very important especially if you a on a budget!
1. Tipping Etiquette
There has been a little bit of talk from our clients, wanting to know how much they should tip when they vacation at an all inclusive resort. But, some may think, well this is an all inclusive resort, everything is included, even tips, which only sometimes this statement can be correct. Some resorts such as Club Med refuse to take tips from guests. Their “tips” are negotiated in their pay. At Sandals and Beaches resorts you are only allow to tip Butlers and Spa personnel. A customer relations person said the guests can tip as much as they want or as little as they feel. It’s really up to them. Other resorts have said they see tipping from time to time but it is not required. Some guests find themselves having a great time at an all inclusive and share a great bond with a butler or member of the staff they find it rewarding to tip the staff because of the wonderful job they have done.
2. Everything is NOT Included
Most all inclusive resorts seem like everything is included. But do your research or ask your travel agent if there are any other fees you need to worry about. Some places cover food, drinks, and non motorized sports. Other resorts, drinks and transportation to and from the airport are not included.
3. Pictures can be Deceiving
The photos you see on a resorts website or in a brochure can be very deceiving. Resorts want the customers to see images of luxury, comfort and beautiful views. It would be really disappointing to arrive on your honeymoon to a resort that is under construction. If you do not book directly with the resort or a travel agent, there is a possibility you could not know about renovations. Travel agents often get a heads up about renovations or new construction that is not announced publicly.
4. Refunds
Refunds can be very difficult to get back on your vacation. There are tons and tons of all inclusive resorts in the Caribbean. Caribbean and hurricanes go hand in hand there. A resort may say they will refund you if there is a hurricane, but once again there is fine print. Read that print closely, because it will only apply when hurricane force winds directly hit one of the resorts and interrupt activities. But getting rained on your entire stay will not get you a refund. Resorts like Sandals will relocate guests to another resort! So be careful when traveling from May to October, which in hurricane season! And, think about getting travelers insurance as well.
5. Low Prices are Sometimes Not the Best
In the world of travel, “last minute” deals are considered bookings within two months of the travel date, so when you see that on a resorts website, could seem like an amazing deal. But in reality it could be a bad idea. Travel agents warn their clients that deals can SOMETIMES be cheap for a reason. The best deals tend to be during hurricane season, rooms that do not have the best views, or traveling times that are not great for families to travel, such as in the fall when the children are back in school. Be sure to read into why they are offering such spectacular deals, or simply get a travel agent to help you book your vacation or honeymoon!
Since its in your best interest to use a travel agent for your special vacation or honeymoon please contact us at Simply Dream Travel.
