travel tip #2 - the all inclusive resort

When you hear about an all inclusive resort, most people think of places like Sandals, which are geared towards honeymooners or couples looking to get away, if they think of anything at all. One of the best tips that I can offer anyone who is looking for a great vacation is to look at the all inclusive resorts that are located throughout Mexico and the Caribbean.

All inclusive resorts are large hotel properties that include food, beverages and activities with the price of each night's stay. Examples of great properties that offer these deals can be found with the companies RIU, Sandals and, my personal favorite, Paradisus, which has one of the best resorts that I have ever been to, the Paradisus Playa Conchal (http://www.paradisus-playa-conchal.com/) found in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

When you add up the costs of food and beverages at a nice hotel, and the added costs of activities such as guided hikes, small sunset cruises and more, a vacation budget can easily balloon out of control. At most all inclusive resorts, not only are you not charged for any of food and drinks but at many alcohol is included, as well as your minibar and more. Most also discourage tipping, requesting that should you desire to tip for exceptional service to simply write down the persons name and leave a small envelope with the tip as you are leaving from your stay.

With the current economic climate, rates for all inclusive resorts have plummeted. Whether you are trying to sneak away for a romantic weekend on the beach, or finally want to dive that beach you have been thinking of, an all inclusive resort is the smart, affordable and fun way to go.