Another thing I like about AIs is how simple things get when no one has to track who is ordering what.

Sometimes the resort might set up a snack bar and just serve whoever is walking by or if you (or your kid) want to try an extra dessert or even entree (and yes portions are not huge so you don’t feel ridiculous doing this) or grab a drink for your partner even if you aren’t sure if they need one yet.

It’s sort of like the difference between being in your house or and being in a bar/restaurant/market.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Nah man. I'd rather have a nice hotel with a nice restaurant vs all inclusive crap food.

Gee, thanks for the opinion?
I'm watching this thread OP too see the actually recommendations.

What do you actually like about an AI? It makes no sense, as the vast majority of all resorts have multiple restaurants, water sports, etc. AI just means the cost of food included.

I'll bite. We did an AI for the first time last year, with 4 of us (incl adult kids). It was SO refreshing to not pull out cc several times/day or go through a 4 page list of charges on two rooms -- we actually got fleeced this way by one resort.

I didn't give DH the side eye after his 4rd ridiculously priced drink at dinner. We didn't pay for airport transfer, tax, anything aside from cash tips, as it was truly AI. Everyone loved the fact that when you were done with dinner, you literally got up and left. No waiting for wait staff, etc. It was also nice that it was paid 6 weeks in advance. We also got tons of little treats from the staff and our beach concierge also gave DH little gifts on his birthday.

The food wasn't spectacular, aside from breakfast, but I loved the concept and we had a great, worry-free time.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Nah man. I'd rather have a nice hotel with a nice restaurant vs all inclusive crap food.

Gee, thanks for the opinion?
I'm watching this thread OP too see the actually recommendations.

What do you actually like about an AI? It makes no sense, as the vast majority of all resorts have multiple restaurants, water sports, etc. AI just means the cost of food included.

DP...it's the peace of mind that comes with paying once beforehand and then everything is covered. Once the vacation begins you don't have as many decisions to make. No conversations along the lines of "I'd like to do ... but it will cost ..." Some trips are for exploration and some are for relaxation. AIs are terrible for the former but great for the latter.

If you set a budget ahead of time, you should not have any issue with eating at the places at the resort.

If you set a budget ahead of time, you can calculate exactly how many drinks you should purchase during a night out. Or you can go to an event that's open bar. Which is more fun?