All-Inclusives

When it comes to all-inclusive getaways, it pays to ask questions.

For many travelers, all-inclusive getaways are the only way to go. Everything is figured out in advance of departure -- accommodations, food, drink, entertainment, and most of all fees. Sometimes, though, the difference between "most or all" fees can take travelers by surprise. Below, we've outlined a few of the ways costs can add up on an all-inclusive and how you can avoid sticker shock.

Resorts

Resort packages typically include all food and beverages, but remember to check details carefully. Those "three meals a day" might mean bellying up to the buffet three times a day, which is fine for fans of casual dining but disheartening for gourmets. Free drinks may mean "your choice of whatever bands we happen to serve at the bar" (which could be very a limited selection), or free drinks during specified times only. Or it could mean any and all drinks are free, round-the-clock.

In the world of all-inclusives, sports and recreation activities tend to be loaded with hidden fees. Get the scoop on these activities and remember that what is included will most likely vary from property to property. Spa fee are largely, but not always, complimentary. That said, you'll definitely pay extra if you're planning on any treatments. Tennis and squash courts may be free, but bring your rackets as you'll probably have to pay to rent them. Most packages do no include golfing fees.

Cruises

On an all-inclusive cruise, much of what you'll need and want is included in the rate you pay for up front. But there are a few things hat are hardly ever included such as tips, spa services, and the cost of shore excursions. The latter can end up being surprisingly pricey if you didn't know you had to cover costs for kayak rentals, face masks, snorkels and lunch in the fancy on-shore restaurant. In general, many travelers find they spend about $1,000 to $1,500 for tips, excursions, equipment rentals, and other extras on a ten-day cruise.

Cruisers are often surprised to find that they all-inclusive cruise doesn't include the cost of drinks. For adult beverages, you can usually buy beer, wine and hard liquor on shore and b ring it aboard (some ships may not allow this) or buy a bottle at the duty-free shop and pay a small fee to have access to it. If you don't pay the fee, your purchase will be held until you disembark. For carbonated drinks it's a good idea to invest in a prepaid carbonated drinks card, which allows you to order as many sodas as you wish for a flat fee.

Insurance and Cancellation Coverage

You may want to consider purchasing trip cancellation insurance. Read the fine print carefully, however, so you know exactly what protection your policy offers.

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