What is All-Inclusive Plus? Is it Worth It?

Planning a holiday for you and your partner or family quickly becomes overwhelming when you begin scouring through different flights, restaurants, accommodations, and car rental deals.

When booking hotels, you might’ve noticed that some options offer “All-Inclusive” or “All-Inclusive Plus” packages.

If you look closely, you might notice that basic travel necessities such as flights, hotel activities and facilities, and cuisine are already covered.

However, what do any of these terms mean, and how are they different from each other?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll explore:

• The difference between “All-Inclusive” and “All-Inclusive Plus”
• Examples of global “All-Inclusive Plus” resorts
• Benefits of “All-Inclusive Plus” specific to each location

Let’s get into it!

What is All-Inclusive?

“All-inclusive” refers to a pricing scheme where your three major meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are already included in your reservation. Aside from that, you also gain access to delicious snacks and drinks during your stay.

The main appeal of an all-inclusive reservation is that your consumables and lodging are already bundled together. You no longer need to pay for and arrange everything separately.

What is All-Inclusive Plus?

You might be more familiar with the many different names that “All-Inclusive Plus” (AIP) packages have, such as “Plus Ultra All Inclusive”, “Ultra All-Inclusive”, “Ultra-Inclusive”, or “Premium All-Inclusive”.

Regardless of what it’s called, AIP packages are simply hotel deals that offer special perks for those who avail of them.

On top of the things that you can expect from an all-inclusive plan, you also get more. However, note that these extras vary per hotel, so it’s best to check before booking.

What’s Included in All-Inclusive Plus?

If you opt for an all-inclusive plus package, you’ll also typically have access to 24-hour room service, various check-in and checkout privileges, international branded drinks, and unlimited dinners at the a la carte restaurants, among others.

Accommodation

Aside from having spacious, well-equipped living suites, daily housekeeping is also a common perk that’s typically provided with AIP rooms.

For most AIP arrangements, you can leave the bathrobe, hairdryer, and towels at home – giving you more room for gifts and souvenirs.

Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

When you opt for AIP, hotels will usually offer you gourmet dishes throughout your stay. Some AIP resorts also offer buffet-style dining and a la carte options at their various restaurants and bars.

Drinks

While an “All-Inclusive” plan can offer local alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, some AIP plans include unlimited international branded refreshments such as Pepsi, Guinness, or Peroni (during given hours).

Generally, your room might also come with a minibar that is replenished daily. When you have these kinds of privileges, why not lounge back and sip on a drink (or three?).

Activities & Amenities

If the AIP is family-friendly, you’ll likely have access to a club with a comprehensive activity schedule for your kids.

This way, you can drop your kids off to have a fun-filled day while you and your partner can go out and explore the museums and astonishing views.

If the AIP is adult-only, you can expect that the plan will include activities along the likes of yoga sessions, cycling, jogging trails, spas, air-conditioned fitness centres, tennis, cooking and mixology lessons, and nightclubs.

All of these are on top of basic amenities and extras such as smart TVs and designer toiletries.

Additional Features or Services

For some AIP hotels, receptions are also generally open for equipment hire, concierge service, storing suitcases, and currency exchange.

Aside from the fantastic benefits already listed, a unique component of the “Plus” plan is the possibility for cultural immersion through classes offered at some spots.

Are All All-Inclusive Resorts the Same?

Though many all-inclusive accommodations have similar features, no two locations are the same. Each plan is heavily influenced by the distinct, rich cultures of its surroundings, making for a refreshing experience each time!

Imagine the difference between yoghurt flavours—they’re all yoghurt, but could vanilla ever replicate the taste of gooseberry and cinnamon? We think not.

Examples of All-Inclusive Plus Hotels

Solo or Couples’ Luxury All Inclusive Plus Hotel & Resorts

Mayia Exclusive Resort & Spa (Kiotari, Greece)

The Mayia AIP resides on a private beach overlooking the Kiotari beach. As an adult-only location, you can indulge in sunrise yoga, delectable food, and even a hair salon.

Check Price at Booking.com

Grand Palladium White Island Resort & Spa (Ibiza, Spain)With a “UNESCO Sustainable Travel Pledge” guarantee, you can feel good about staying at Grand Palladium. The AIP here provides access to four outdoor pools, a splash park for children, and aerobics and weights areas.

Check Price at Booking.com

Royal Decameron Panama All-Inclusive Plus (Panama)

The Decameron AIP comes with exclusive pools, lounges, resort sectors, unlimited Wi-Fi, an introductory scuba diving class, and a neighbouring 18-hole golf course.

Check Price at Booking.com

Family-Friendly All Inclusive Plus Hotel & Resorts

Kiani Beach Resort (Crete, Greece)

Kiani’s AIP, an excellent choice for families, features an excellent range of facilities. The kids can also enjoy hopping between the resort’s playgrounds and pools.

Check Price at Booking.com

Eden Resort (Albufeira, Portugal)

The AIP at Eden comes with buffet options for every meal of the day, a splash park, two outdoor pools, daily arts and crafts, playgrounds, and pushchair or wheelchair hire.

Check Price at Booking.com

Zafiro Can Picafort (Majorca, Balearic Islands, Spain)

Zafiro is laden with adventurous activities for your children such as cycling and archery, minigolf and football, and a pool with a pirate ship. The hotel also has its own supermarket.

Check Price at Booking.com

Wallet-Friendly All Inclusive Plus Hotel & Resorts

Barut Hemera (Antalya Area, Turkey)

You can experience Mediterranean magic at Barut Hemera and enjoy the beachfront experience that also boasts bars, dining spots, seven pools, stunning woodlands and gardens, pilates, evening entertainment, and baby-specific equipment (like baby baths, wipes, bibs, highchairs).

Check Price at Booking.com

Korumar Ephesus Beach & Spa Resort (Kuşadası, Turkey)

Korumar Ephesus’ AIP features return flights, a 22-kg baggage allowance, coach transfers, Turkish baths, beautifully curated menus, and grand rooms and pools.

Check Price at Booking.com

Louis Paphos Breeze (Paphos Airport, Cyprus)

Overlooking the ocean, the Louis Paphos Breeze has an average five-star rating on TripAdvisor. Guests love to keep coming back for its well-maintained, lush suites by the sea, creative cocktails, and picturesque views from the sunbeds by the adult pool.

Check Price at Booking.com

The Bottom Line

Going on an “All-Inclusive Plus” experience in any of the destinations we’ve discussed is a great way to create memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

While there are adult-only accommodations, most resorts still expect children and cater to them through child-friendly areas and clubs that keep them occupied.

With an AIP plan, you won’t need to worry about saying goodbye to rich experiences in classy venues.

When everything is already provided—from flights and dining to extra facilities and entertainment throughout your holiday—going for an AIP package is sure to leave you relaxed and refreshed.

For a hassle free holiday, opting for AIP can be a great way to relieve the stress of planning and booking abroad holidays, especially for those with families.