How to come out ahead with all-inclusive resorts

All-inclusive resorts are very popular and most of them are located outside of the United States. Most people traveling to Mexico and destinations in the Caribbean find all-inclusive resorts to be exactly they are looking for to relax and enjoy.

Booking an all-inclusive takes a lot of the stress out of planning and budgeting for your trip. You can sit back and be assured that your transportation, lodging, meals, drinks, and on-site activities are taken of before you get on the plane! You have already paid a pre-determined price so if you stick to included activities and dining and drinking options, you don’t have to worry! The Family Vacation Survival Guide indicates that all-inclusive vacations can cut the cost of your trip by 25 percent versus pay-as-you-go! That’s some savings!

When vacationing in a foreign country, it is hard to know how to tip. All-inclusive vacations often include tips and gratuities alleviating uncomfortable interactions with staff at your resort and keeping you on budget. Beware, however, that tips are often expected by certain types of staff members even on a “tip included” all-inclusive. Always ask which tips are included and make sure you ask if the staff will be receiving the gratuities as many resorts take a portion of those monies. Don’t assume your highly regarded maid or wait person will be receiving the full tip so budget accordingly.

Dining and drinking packages also vary between resorts so do your homework before you book! At some resorts all meals are included at resort restaurants, others include snacks as well – some even have all you can eat options. Unlimited drinks are also generally included, but make sure you ask if that includes all alcoholic (usually domestic to the region) soft drinks and water.

Check into the activities that are included at your resort. Beachfront resorts usually have snorkeling gear and non-motorized watercraft. Some may even include fitness classes or yoga. If you want to go off the property on a tour, you may even receive a discount through your resort so be sure to ask.

Finally, a study published by the U.S. News and World Report stated that the pain center in your brain is activated every time you make a purchasing decision! I know mine is! That means that every time you pull out your wallet on vacation, you are struggling to relax, just the opposite of the reason you are traveling! When you pre-pay for an all-inclusive vacation, your mind and emotions respond as if the meals, drinks and activities are free, stimulating a relaxation response. What a great reason to consider your next vacation to be all-inclusive! #travelforless

Image by Kyle Bedell, used with permission.

Watching the news is scary – travel shouldn’t be!

The stunning Rio Celeste waterfall in Costa Rica is one of Marci's picks for safe travel.

No doubt there are places that are not safe to visit, but there are lots of beautiful, exciting travel destinations that are safe and offer opportunities to really experience the world. Let’s look at a few.

Japan – Tokyo is ranked one of the safest cities in the world. Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and offers a mix of attractions from ultra-modern to traditional historic temples. The Imperial Palace is surrounded by 17^th Century parks and is surrounded by walls and moats. The Imperial Royal family still live there, and it offers an amazing visual with its incredible gardens. These are some of the most famous gardens in the world, truly a site to see to believe!

Iceland – this small island country roughly the size of Alabama has experienced a tourist boom since 2010 due to its peaceful ambience and dramatic landscapes. You will see volcanoes, geysers and even lava fields! Tour operators like Hidden Iceland can set you up to enjoy amazing sites off the beaten path that are thrilling and certainly nothing you will see in this part of the world!

Chile is one of the safest countries in South America. Chile is geographically diverse being home to deserts, glaciers and of course, the Andes Mountains. The capital city of Santiago is an urban center that offers both urban and historical attractions. Seafood is abundant in Chile due to its location and don’t forget the famous Chilean wines!!

Costa Rica, no matter what you may have heard, possesses a very low crime rate and is widely regarded to be if not the safest place, one of the most safe places in Central America. It is also the happiest country in the world according to the Happy Planet Index!! Costa Rica is a lush paradise for nature lovers. More than 25% of the country consists of national parks and protected areas. Costa Rica is a peaceful and politically stable country. This is THE destination for eco-tourists because of its biodiversity. You can experience the plethora of tropical plant and animal species. Some of these include huge ficus trees as well as approximately 1,500 different species of orchids! Costa Rica is also home to animals such as jaguars and green and scarlet macaws! Wow! I sure makes sense that bird watching is one of the most popular tourist activities in Costa Rica being home to more than 800 species of birds.

These are just a few of the amazing safe world travel options for you to consider. Happy Traveling!! #travelforless

Image by William Berry, used with permission.