I thought I hated everything about all-inclusive resorts until staying at one completely changed my mind
Jacqueline Dole
- I overplan every trip I go on, so I didn't think I'd enjoy vacationing at an all-inclusive resort.
- However, after staying at one in Aruba last year, it's become one of my favorite ways to travel.
- In my opinion, all-inclusives are great for traveling with friends and sticking to a budget.
When I go on vacation, I usually have every minute of the itinerary planned out. So, when I took my first trip to an all-inclusive resort last year, I wasn't expecting it to be for me.
After all, I couldn't imagine taking a trip to Aruba, one of my favorite places in the world, and never leaving the resort.
However, I was shocked when my stay at the Divi Aruba all-inclusive resort became one of the best vacations I'd ever been on.
The resort totally changed my perspective. Here's why I'm now a fan of all-inclusive vacations.
Jacqueline Dole
Traveling with a group can be challenging if everyone has a different vacation style.
Although some people like to wake up early, others prefer to sleep in. Likewise, some travelers feel best lounging by the pool with a book, while others want an action-packed day riding bikes or going snorkeling.
Luckily, a resort with a long list of activities ensures there's something for everyone.
For example, at the Divi Aruba, I could rest by the pool or participate in lots of activities throughout the day, including yoga, bingo, karaoke, and even salsa lessons.
Jacqueline Dole
Like many all-inclusives, the Divi Aruba has multiple dining options on property, including table-service restaurants, quick-service spots, and buffets.
Because of this, I never had to worry about researching where to eat or stress about trying to snag reservations. Every night, I could just walk up and be seated.
That being said, I did visit the restaurants during off-peak times of the evening, which definitely helped me be able to dine wherever I wanted.
Jacqueline Dole
In the past, I've gone on trips that have quickly and vastly exceeded my budget, as we ordered more than expected or switched up our daily plans. Worrying about what I'm spending doesn't exactly make for a relaxing vacation experience.
At all-inclusives like this one, the activities and food are wrapped into the cost of the stay. So, I can anticipate exactly how much my trip will cost me.
Plus, with meals and drinks included, I don't need to worry about feeling bad if a certain cocktail isn't for me or if my friends and I order multiple menu items to share.
Jacqueline Dole
As a food and travel writer, it's literally my job to explore destinations and learn more about their traditions, cultures, and cuisines.
However, opting for an all-inclusive forced me to stay put and focus my time on relaxing rather than running around.
I still love exploring the towns and countries I visit, but I've since learned to really embrace a vacation where everything I need is on one property and I don't need to lift a finger.
