Make 2023 the year to experience the ease of an all-inclusive break
Getting meals and activities included is a smart way to keep a break to your budget – and you might be surprised what other benefits are often thrown in
Who hasn’t found that the bill for their holiday was more than they initially bargained for? Sure, you set a budget, but it would have seemed mean to deny the kids all those ice creams, and you couldn’t resist that expensive bottle of wine at dinner.
Besides, who really wants to put a price on the great time you’re having? But with the rising cost of living, plenty of travellers are finding that it makes sense to take financial shocks out of the equation by going all-inclusive.
If you have any preconceptions about package holidays, you can leave them at the check-in desk right now.
An all-inclusive British Airways Holidays break can take you everywhere from Turkey to the Caribbean to the exotic desert island-like paradise of the Maldives, with a huge range of accommodation, dining and entertainment options on offer, all included in the price you pay up front, offering you the reassurance that you won’t be finding lots of hidden extras have been charged when you check your bank balance on your return.
PEACE OF MIND ON HOLIDAY
Knowing exactly how much your sunshine break will cost in advance can only help you enjoy it more once you’re away. Among other things, you’ll be locking in a price for flights, accommodation, food and drinks that won’t shoot up unexpectedly if the economic picture changes.
Booking an all-inclusive package through British Airways Holidays also means the reassurance of ATOL protection to ensure your holiday is worry-free. You can also back this up with your own travel insurance, ensuring you are covered for any unforeseen issues and can fully relax and enjoy your time away.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
Every resort interprets the “allinclusive” part a little differently, so check exactly what is included in the bill.
For instance, some resorts include meals at a range of sleek resort restaurants, while at others you’ll find the choice is at a main buffet restaurant – which will still invariably offer a wide range of tempting options. Some include alcohol, some don’t. Some throw in kids’ clubs and activities, pictured above left, others may charge extra, so it’s advisable to check in advance. It’s also worth being aware of whether you
will be billed separately for any à la carte dining, premium alcohol brands, Wi-Fi and room service, or “resort fees”.
The more you’re clued up about before you travel, the better you can budget. Also, check which activities are included in the package: the gym, pools and nonmotorised water sports should be free, but tours, spa treatments and premium activities often cost extra.
Ask if you need to make restaurant reservations, even if the cost of the meal is part of your package – and check the
dress code for more upmarket on-site eateries in case you need smart shoes or a shirt with sleeves. It’s also worth keeping tabs on the opening times for restaurants, pools, activities and clubs so you can take full advantage of everything that is included in your holiday deal.
THE RIGHT RESORT FOR YOU
A family holiday is a chance to escape from screens, so why not seek out resorts with outdoor activities that kids can’t do at home? Somewhere with waterslides is always a plus. And if child-minding is included, take advantage – when is the next time you’ll have time to do something as a couple without a voice saying “Mum”?
If you don’t have tots or teens in tow, you might want to focus on all-adults resorts or resorts with dedicated adults-only zones, offering more peace and privacy. The included perks will also be targeted at grown-ups – look for little extras such as sunset cocktails or romantic dinners, and premium club packages, which come with more of these little details.
MAKING ALL-INCLUSIVE COUNT
Most packages include more than you will have time to take advantage of, so check out all the options. If you spot something you’ve never tried before on the “included” list – beach yoga, say, or archery for the kids – give it a try.
At the same time, remember to pace yourself. You don’t have to spend your whole trip at the buffet or the bar just because it’s free.
It’s worth blocking out at least one day for a trip outside the resort ecosystem, so you can plug into the local culture and enjoy the cuisine the way locals do. And since you’ll have saved on so many things by going all-inclusive, there may well be more funds left over to splash out away from the resort.
All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your all-inclusive holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/all-inclusive