All-Inclusive Resorts in Jamaica

All-inclusive resorts in Jamaica offer worry-free vacations for travelers

Far From A La Carte

 
 
 




Jamaica is the birthplace of the all-inclusive resort, a one-stop vacation spot travelers either love or hate.

All-inclusive resorts are extremely popular among Americans, and are appropriately equipped to satisfy American appetites and expectations for safety and consistency. No matter which way you come down on the all-inclusives debate, you will find the most options among the bevy of big-name resorts with meal, lodging and activity packages.

Why?

People like all-inclusive resorts for several reasons, but the most common is the billing procedure. Guests receive one simple bill up-front for nearly everything they could want to eat, drink or do during their stay. Most all-inclusives in Jamaica are priced with several restaurant options, top-shelf liquors, and sports already included. Although you may have to sign a check once or twice?say, after a massage or a dinner at an on-site upscale restaurant, in general you can spend your vacation not worrying about how much you're paying for everything. Another perk is being able to leave important documents, such as your bank and credit cards and IDs, hidden in the safety deposit box or safe in your room.

For some, this freedom from budgetary concerns helps coax relaxation. After all, tropical vacationers are often interested in leaving their cares and worries back home, and budgeting for a trip can be stressful. Another relaxing thought is that all-inclusives offer tight security, most often working 24-hours to keep the resort safe and worry-free.

Many resorts also offer other extras to keep their visitors happy. All-inclusives in Jamaica generally provide airport transfers as part of the package, which can save some travelers a hefty sum just in bus or cab fare. They also offer plenty of pre-planned activity and on-site nightlife. So, as a rule, all-inclusives can not only be safe but also more affordable than staying at"just" a hotel.

Why Not?

Travelers who savor independence more than airtight security and group activities may feel that all-inclusive resorts take some of the fun and flavor out of international travel. Visitors are not generally encouraged to leave the grounds and explore Jamaica or spend their travel budget on local foods, activities and merchandise when staying at an all-inclusive resort.

All-inclusives are notorious for not offering great examples of local Jamaican culture to their guests. Plain and simple, guests will need to venture out on their own to taste local flavor and experience what truly makes Jamaica unique, its people. This kind of exploring is especially appreciated by local restaurateurs, who often feel that all-inclusives inhibit their business. Many intrepid travelers believe that elaborate resort security makes too much of the dangers outside the complexes.

Several Jamaican all-inclusives favor couples over singles and adults over children, making family travel to all-inclusive resorts on the island less than ideal. Though family-oriented all-inclusives are gaining in popularity, they still haven't taken over the top spot from adults-only clubs. Check into a few of the popular chains, and you'll find much more in family-friendly programming.

Visitors traveling to all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica will need to book their trips ahead of time, especially in the winter high season. Many popular hotels and all-inclusives can run out of rooms during Christmas and New Year's because so many are booked up to a year in advance.

What Else?

Major resort chains began on Jamaica and have remained old-fashioned in some ways, such as preserving an intolerance for homosexual travelers. Jamaica in general is not particularly accepting of the gay and lesbian lifestyle. However, some resorts are more tolerant than others, and a little research can go a long way.

However, all-inclusive resorts are famous for incentives to straight couples. Many offer free honeymoons to the bride and groom if they hold the wedding at that resort. This can be helpful to couples looking to save a little money on their vows.

Tipping is usually not permitted. Most of the larger resorts consider tipping to be a part of the "all-included" price, leaving visitors with one less bill to pay.

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