All inclusive or not? Which is more cost-effective?

[kimbos]

Very helpful info but most of my wedding guest like to drink we we are going all inclusive!

[CanadianLindsey]

As a side note; keep in mind that an All Inclusive resort doesn't have to mean "spring break" atmosphere or that they do tons of weddings a day.  There are lots of small or boutique feeling resorts that have AI plans or even big resorts that have a private feel. 

I know our AI resort was the perfect fit for us because it was a higher end "Gourmet All Inclusive" resort so the food was amazing and we were treated like royalty everyday, including our wedding day, without pulling out our wallet everytime we turned around!  It also kept our guests together all week since no one had to worry about sticking to a budget for meals or activities once we got there.

[shan0487]

us too!!!
 

Originally Posted by kimbos 

Very helpful info but most of my wedding guest like to drink we we are going all inclusive!

 

[traceysteve]

we decided against it also because we wanted to get married in Aruba, where the difference in price for all inclusive was much more than not. I have been told that the town is nearby though, so we plan to spend evenings out.

 

I think it all depends on where you are planning on getting married, and whether your guest will drink/eat that much over the week. we figured we would only drink, that way we can save money!!

[JayKay]

We chose an all inclusive resort for a few reasons.  Firstly, we have a decently sized group coming and most are coming from Western Canada.  Airfare to the caribbean is expensive from Western Canada.  It was cheaper for us to go all inclusive.  Secondly, FI and I didn't want to have to carry a lot of money with us for food and drinks.  Thirdly,we have friends coming who are big drinkers so it was more cost effective at an AI for them. 

 

[favorsmr]

We pretty much decided on an All-inclusive resort for the same reasons listed here...There are quite a few of us in the group that drink, especially in a vacation setting, and could have to put a 2nd mortgage on their home to pay for their bar tab.  Also, the options for resort activities, the convenience of not having to carry cash/credit cards everywhere, and some are staying more than just 2-3 days, so AI will benefit them nicely.

[belledame]

We decided on an all-inclusive resort because it's more cost effective for our guests. We're going for 1 week and paying for meals, drinks and excursions can really add up.

[Pierre Violle]

I think a big factor, at least down here in the Riviera Maya, is the accessibility and variety of food and drinks at the boutique hotels.  Some of the most beautiful smaller hotels can be quite isolated and if you are not planning on organizing transportation to the nearby town, the costs can add up fast for your guests (even though the room will be cheaper).  If you are planning a hotel that is more centrally located, let's say close to Playa del Carmen, for example, there are infinite options for eating and drinking at all budget levels. 

Another thought consideration would be the package deals you can arrange with a travel agent.  Including airfare and an AI hotel in a package (especially in off seasons) can lower the price dramatically.

Happy Planning!!

[boscobel]

 

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[meshagraves]

I just had my wedding and I would say hands down all-inclusive is the way to go