All-inclusive and couples-only resorts

After months of wedding planning, the idea of a trip where you never have to reach for a wallet, choose a restaurant or organise a thing can be deeply appealing. That is the promise of the all-inclusive resort, and it is why so many honeymooners choose one. Done well, it gives you days of complete ease. Done badly, it can feel like a crowded buffet you cannot escape. Knowing what to look for makes all the difference.

What "all-inclusive" means

Wikipedia's article on the all-inclusive resort describes it as a holiday resort that generally includes, in the price of a stay, lodging, food and drinks, entertainment and other recreational activities, and notes that such resorts are often located in warmer regions such as the Mediterranean, Mexico and the Caribbean. It also notes that all-inclusive resorts geared towards couples are popular locations for weddings and honeymoons.

The phrase is used loosely, though, and two resorts that both call themselves all-inclusive can offer very different experiences.

What is usually included, and what often is not

Most all-inclusive resorts cover your room, meals at the main restaurants, most drinks, non-motorised water sports, some entertainment and use of the pools and beach. The details vary widely. Things that are often extra include:

• Speciality or à la carte restaurants, or a limit on how many times you may book them.
• Premium drinks and wines.
• Spa treatments.
• Motorised water sports, diving and fishing trips.
• Excursions off the resort.
• Room service, or room service at certain hours.
• Airport transfers.
• Tips, depending on the resort and local custom.

Before you book, read the list of inclusions carefully and ask about anything that matters to you. The best resort for you is the one whose inclusions match how you actually like to spend your days.

Adults-only and couples-only resorts

Some resorts do not admit children. According to Wikipedia, "adults only" in this category usually means that the resort does not admit children, with the minimum age varying from resort to resort. Couples-only resorts go a step further and are designed specifically around pairs. For honeymooners, both options offer a quieter atmosphere, with pools and restaurants shaped around adults rather than families.

How to compare resorts

Size and atmosphere. A large resort can feel lively and busy, with plenty to do. A small one feels calmer and more personal. Think about whether you want a buzz or a hush.

The beach and the water. Is the beach good for swimming? Is the water calm or rough? Is the sand shared with other properties? Read the guide to the Caribbean for two for more on choosing the right coast, and remember to swim only where it is safe.

Food. Look at how many restaurants there are, whether they need reservations, and whether there is enough variety for a week. On a longer stay, the same buffet every night can wear thin.

Rooms. Check the room category carefully. The resort's best photographs may show a suite very different from the entry-level room.

Location. How far is the resort from the airport? Is there anything outside the gates, a town, a market, a walk, that you might want to see?

Leaving the resort

One common criticism of all-inclusive holidays is that guests never see the country they have travelled to. You can have the best of both worlds by spending most of your time relaxing but planning one or two outings: a morning in a local town, a boat trip, a visit to a market or a cultural site. It supports local businesses, and the contrast makes returning to the resort even sweeter.

Weddings at all-inclusive resorts

Many resorts host weddings, which can be very convenient: the ceremony, reception and guests' rooms are all in one place. Ask what is included, how many other weddings will be taking place on the same day, and whether you can personalise the ceremony. The destination wedding planning guide explains the wider planning questions, including the paperwork.

Is it right for you?

An all-inclusive resort is a wonderful choice if you want rest, ease and predictability. If you love discovering local restaurants and wandering on your own, a small hotel, a country inn or a mix of both may suit you better. There is no wrong answer; the right one is the trip that leaves you both feeling rested and close.