All-inclusive-style resorts are some of the most popular destinations for travelers seeking a relaxing, island-inspired vacation. Over the years, I’ve stayed at several great resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico, such as those in St. Lucia, Cancun, Barbados, the Bahamas, and the Dominican Republic. Despite their location in different countries, these resorts have many similarities that greatly differ from a stay at an all-inclusive resort in the U.S. But which is the better choice? Should you go to an all-inclusive in the U.S. or stick to the Caribbean? Here’s how to decide which destination is best for your travel needs.
Visiting all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean
“The Caribbean practically invented the all-inclusive model, and you feel it the moment you arrive. Resorts in the area focus on all-inclusive fare – where everything from food and drink to entertainment is on offer – plus you’ll find plenty of beachfront that’s hard to compete with elsewhere in the mainland U.S.,” says Chad S Lipka, President of North Shore Sauna. Most travel experts agree that if you want to understand what an all-inclusive is truly built for, you have to go to the Caribbean — the birthplace and benchmark of the concept.
Pros and cons
In the Caribbean, there’s a seemingly endless amount of competition forcing resorts to “overdeliver,” according to Georgia Fowkes, Travel Advisor, Altezza Travel.
“With multiple restaurants, bars, beach activities, and day and night entertainment, all baked into the price, all-inclusives are the one place where you stop reaching for your wallet – it’s all covered.”
This is one part I love about this type of travel, allowing me to totally destress and relax while away.
At the same time, some argue that resorts in the Caribbean can feel ‘cookie-cutter’ if you don’t choose carefully. If you’re looking for a different type of travel, you may find more diversity at various luxury-style ranches and spa retreats than you can find within the standard all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean.
Visiting all-inclusive resorts in the U.S.
Unlike in the Caribbean, all-inclusive resorts within the U.S. are a niche, with limited options compared to the endless options available internationally and a heavier focus on wellness lodges and ranch retreats. Some travel experts like Fowkes argue that all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. do not provide the true, full, all-inclusive experience that most travelers expect.
“In the U.S., all-inclusive packages are still somewhat rare, although there are a handful of options, like Florida and luxury ranch-style resorts out west. These products tend to emphasize curated experiences—whether a guided activity, spa time, or fine dining—in which the ‘value’ comes not from unlimited buffets but from being taken care of within an all-in-one, worry-free experience. On the flip side, these packages can be more expensive and feel too regimented for people just wanting to relax and switch off,” says Lipka.
Pros and cons
Having stayed at an all-inclusive resort in the U.S. myself, I acknowledge both the pros and cons of both types of vacations. For me, an all-inclusive resort in the U.S. doesn’t provide the same true “all-inclusive” feeling as I get from staying at a resort in the Caribbean. Often, many of these resorts can have hidden fees or many “add-ons”, leaving you wondering why it’s called an all-inclusive resort at all. I also feel that many of these resorts may lack the interesting and unique excursions found in specific landscapes, such as visiting caves in Barbados or the Pitons in St. Lucia.
On the other hand, this type of travel may be a better option for those who do not want to travel internationally and want to prioritize a quieter, more personalized experience. For foodies, the quality of food at resorts in the U.S. tends to be higher than at resorts in the Caribbean, though there are often far fewer choices for bars and restaurants at smaller resorts.
I’ve also found the quality of specialty cocktails and beverages to be much higher domestically. While it may not feel like as much of a tropical getaway while staying at ‘home’, you may get a more luxurious, upscale experience at an all-inclusive resort in the U.S.
Which should you choose?
Choosing between an all-inclusive in the U.S. and the Caribbean ultimately comes down to personal preferences for travel and what type of traveler you are.
“Either option can be great,” says Steve Schwab, CEO of Casago. Overall, experts agree that the Caribbean seems more upbeat and connected, as the U.S. is quieter, private, and more expensive.
Who should visit a U.S. all-inclusive resort?
An all-inclusive in the U.S. may be a better option for:
- Those who do not have a passport, who want to avoid plane rides, or who do not feel comfortable traveling internationally
- Individuals seeking shorter getaways and shorter flights
- Travelers who want a quieter, more luxurious stay at a smaller resort
- Foodies who want better quality food
- Those seeking fewer crowds
Who should visit a Caribbean all-inclusive resort?
An all-inclusive in the Caribbean may be a better option for:
- Travelers seeking to engage in adventure or outdoor activities, such as hiking or waterfall trips
- Those who want a more well-rounded, all-inclusive experience
- Travelers wanting a more cultural, islandy vibe from vacation
- Honeymooners or couples who want a more romantic atmosphere
- Beach-lovers who want white sand beaches and stunning blue waters
- Travelers who want more bars, restaurants, and entertainment options
