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Planning a pre-wedding bash or any kind of friend trip sounds like a great time until you’re the one in charge of splitting costs, managing everyone’s preferences, and trying to plan activities that everyone wants to do. Suddenly, that relaxing time to catch up with friends feels more like a strict to do list with lots of follow-ups. Here’s why an all-inclusive Caribbean getaway might be the answer.
One Price, No Awkward Money Conversations
You might settle on the cost of hotel rooms and excursions at home but things can get sticky when someone orders an extra bottle of wine at dinner while another is on a tight budget. All inclusive pricing at a resort or on a cruise let’s everyone agree on a total price up front without worrying about the bill at every meal. Even things like airport transportation, excursions, and spa visits can be agreed on ahead of time. So when the trip arrives, everyone has already paid and is ready to relax.
Finding the Right Vibe
Some people have a very specific idea of what an all inclusive looks like. However, resorts have very different vibes depending on what you are looking for. Both the type of resort and physical location will have a big impact on your experience so it’s important to sit down with your group and decide what you are looking for. Does the group want an active trip with hiking and snorkeling? Or are you looking for a wellness retreat with sunset boat rides and spa days? Maybe you want an high energy party vibe with pool DJs and night life. Or perhaps your group is full of foodies who want to try local cuisine and experience the culture. There is a resort for everyone!
Not everyone wants to go on that excursion? No problem.
If part of the group is a bunch of thrill seeking adventurers and a couple others would rather a slower paced vacation, a all-inclusive resort is a great choice. It’s easy to plan 2 excursion that the group can choose from. It’s also easy to stay at the resort, indulge in the food, enjoy resort entertainment, or lounge on the beach without feeling any FOMO. Even cruises offer multiple excursion options or you can choose to stay behind to enjoy the ship.
Things to Consider when Choosing a Resort
Time of year: December through April is usually the most expensive time of year because many travelers are escaping the cold or visiting for spring break. You might find deals from mid-July to November but the risk of hurricanes during this time is higher. It’s always important to make sure you have travel insurance but extra important this time of year. My favorite time to go is around May to early July for lower crowds and more reliable weather.
Flights: Check flights for everyone in your group before committing to an island. Some islands have much higher price tags on flights from the lower 48 so the cost of flights may help narrow down your options. If you are just traveling for a long weekend, consider narrowing your options to direct flights.
Sleeping arrangements: Most all inclusive resorts are priced by double occupancy so generally, you’ll want to plan for at least 2 people in a room. Just be mindful that if you choose a resort marketed toward couples (looking at you, Secrets), the resort may only offer king bed rooms and showers may be less private (ooh la la!). There’s nothing wrong with this, but make sure you know when you book! Family style or less romance focused resorts may offer more rooms with double beds or pull out sofas.
Room types: Many all inclusive resort have upgraded options including swim-out suites, private cabanas, or sweeping oceanfront rooms. It’s also important to consider the size of the resort and what location is important to you. Do you want to be near the quiet pool, close to the beach, or a short walk to the restaurants? Even if it’s a small resort, proximity to the ocean might matter.
Resort vs Island Vibes: Not all islands have a big all-inclusive market. You’ll find the most options in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamacia. Antigua, St. Lucia, Turks and Caicos, and Aruba have some options, but these islands are very focused on getting tourists to explore beyond the resort. And Mexico, Dominican Republic, and Jamacia have tons to offer off resort too! So depending on what type of trip you want, ask yourself how much time you want to spend off resort and what kind of activities you are looking for. This will help narrow down your choices.
All Inclusive Highlights in the Caribbean
Here are a few of my favorite places to recommend for adult friend groups looking for an all inclusive experience in the Caribbean but with so many inlands to explore plus Mexico, these are just a few highlights. Give me a shout if you would like help with your next group trip!
Zoetry (St. Lucia): Zoetry is a “relax and chill” brand. There are currently 5 Zoetry resorts but the one in St. Lucia is tucked away with beautiful views and quiet surroundings. Enjoy wellness focused amenities like a mediation garden, cooking demonstrations, peaceful nearby hikes, and more. This is a great options for friends who prefer peace and quiet over DJ pool parties.
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana (Dominican Republic): Zilara is Hyatt’s adult’s only brands and the Cap Cana location is one of the most talked about. With a stunning ocean front pool and wide beach, 6 restaurants, and 5 bars, this resort strikes a good balance of fun and relaxation. Splurge on a swim out pool room for an extra special getaway.
Breathless Riviera (Cancun): Breathless is a great brand for the friends who like to party. Think pool DJs and lots of social spaces. Breathless Riviera is nice compromise between being near the action of Cancun but set a little away from the main strip for some peace. It feels polished and elevated but still brings a solid nightlife vibe for a girls trip.
Secrets Akumal (Mexico): Secrets is targeted more toward couples but if you have a small group friend group (or a friend group made up of couples), Secrets Akumal in Mexico is one of the best for a fancy vibe. The sprawling pools, calm beach, and multiple restaurants will make you feel like a VIP celebrity for the weekend. Enjoy the resort the whole time or take an adventure to the Mayan Ruins and cenotes.
Virgin Voyages (From Miami and Puerto Rico): Virgin is an adults only cruise line with lots of great restaurants on entertainment on board. Set sail from Miami for more days at sea and a visit to Bimini Beach in the Bahamas. Many Miami sailings are 4 or 5 nights so it’s perfect for a long weekend. Or choose an adventure from Puerto Rico for more island hopping farther south. Virgin also offers a straight forward drink package where each sailor can choose to buy various dollar amounts for alcohol and pressed juices. Packages include bonus money if you buy in advance! Drink packages can also be shared so everyone in the group so each sailor can decide how much extra money is needed for drinks. There’s no pressure to over indulge. If budget allows, consider getting at least one Rockstar suite per group so you’ll have a private space to entertain.
I got you! I specialize in custom travel planning from international getaways to family adventures to bucket list escapes. Let me take care of the details so you can focus on the fun.
