Nothing screams “summer” quite like a getaway to some stunning Caribbean island.
But as some of us grow tired of going to the same ol’ places over and over again and others try to avoid the insane tourist crowds at some of those all-time favorite hubs, there’s one destination with surprisingly untouched beaches that emerges as the region’s trendiest hotspot.
Paradise Island in the Bahamas welcomed close to 1.9 million visitors in the first four months of 2024 alone, which not only marks a 13.2% increase from the same time last year but also lets us know that an even more successful summer season lies ahead.
But what is it about this place that sets it apart from so many other Caribbean gems of its kind?
Stick around to find out.
Some Of The Caribbean’s Most Incredible Beaches
I know, I know – all Caribbean beaches are postcard-worthy, but it’s about time we accepted that some are simply more impressive than others.
You’ll see what I’m talking about as soon as you set foot on Paradise Island and catch a glimpse of the pristine white sand and translucent-looking waters.
While you could argue that the entire island is one big beach you won’t be able to get enough of, there are actually a couple of places that might be worth a visit more than others.
My personal top picks would be Cabbage, Paradise, and Colonial Beach – all different enough so that you don’t feel bored, but similar in what really matters – to-die-for views and the best waters you’ve ever swam in.
Flying To This Actual Paradise Has Never Been Easier
When people named this place, they weren’t kidding – it’s an actual real-life paradise!
And now, you can just hop on just about any plane and take it all in, thanks to the many airlines that have come out these past couple of years with new exciting routes to the Bahamian gem – well, to Nassau, but Paradise Island is just an 18-minute drive away from the Bahamian capital, so all the same.
Even budget-friendly carriers like Southwest and Jetblue have thrown their hats in the ring, making the once mysterious island reachable only by a lucky few more accessible than ever.
Not only have these companies helped expand scheduling opportunities, but they’ve also had a noticeable impact in lowering airfare prices from competitor airlines, too – as we speak, some tickets are priced at a little over $200.
Here, You’ll Find Everything From Budget-Friendly Stays To Indulgent All-Inclusive Resorts
I want to preface this by saying that there aren’t any really cheap hotels in Paradise Island, at least not ones widely available to the public, so the use of “budget-friendly” here is a bit subjective.
For example, one of the best lower-cost stays on the island is Comfort Suites, whose rooms start at $370 per night.
Still, consider the fact that these are all big-ish resorts where you pay for more than just your stay, it all balances itself out; and when it comes to iconic places like the Atlantis Paradise you pay for the service and overall atmosphere, too.
The good news is that if your budget doesn’t allow for any of that, you can always book something cheaper ($80-$120 a night) near Nassau and drive back and forth whenever you want to take advantage of Paradise Island’s unreal beaches – I guarantee it’ll be worth it.
A Surprisingly Lively Hub With Lots To Explore
At just 1.1 sq mi (2.8 km2), you’d expect Paradise Island to be a tree-filled piece of land when nothing really happens.
Luckily, that couldn’t be further from the truth.
The island’s event calendar is jam-packed this summer, and depending on what you’re into, you can take your pick between culinary festivals, basketball matches, wine tastings, gallery openings, and monastery excursions.
However, if being among nature is your top priority this summer, Paradise Island is still a fantastic choice.
Go diving in the Blue Hole, take on kayaking, try a boat tour or fishing charter, or enjoy a scenic hike – the choice is yours.
Having explored over 20 countries in the last 3 years, Megi is committed to bringing the freshest, most up-to-date news and perspectives on the world’s most fascinating destinations.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
We all know one of the best ways to vacation is by booking a luxe all-inclusive resort on a pristine beach, but what’s not discussed enough are the hassles and expenses that come along with it.
For example, Los Cabos is one of Americans’ favorite beach destinations and is world-renowned for its incredibly luxurious resorts, but its nightly rates are off the charts!
While it’s tempting to book the most popular places and follow the crowd, ironically, that’s one of the hassles.
Over-tourism can be a real downer when you expect to lounge around in paradise only to find you’re jam-packed with fellow tourists who may lack Speedo etiquette.
Cancun, Los Cabos, and Punta Cana are all amazing, but there are some underrated gems scattered across the globe with affordable lavish all-inclusive resorts calling your name.
These are the 4 most underrated all-inclusive beach destinations in the world:
Varna, Bulgaria
Bulgaria isn’t talked about enough when searching for your next beach escape.
However, digital nomads have been in on the secret as this delightful country has become a hub for the remote worker lifestyle.
That is until Bulgaria officially becomes a Schengen member this month, ruining the loophole digital nomads have been using to remain in Europe long-term.
Regardless, Bulgaria is a phenomenal beach destination for any type of traveler as it’s beautiful, affordable, and lined with a plethora of all-inclusive resorts.
The Black Sea has become a trendy hotspot as of late, but more so in neighboring Turkiye. So, it’s time to give the pretty beach city of Varna it’s due.
Varna, along with nearby small beach towns lining the coast, such as Albena and Golden Sands, are stunning getaways for beach lovers.
There are many options to choose from for all-inclusive beach stays in the $100 range per night, such as the 5-starThe Palace Balneo & Spa Hotel.
Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Mexico
As most travelers in need of an easy-to-reach beach vacation flock to Cancun, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta, there is one resort city in Mexico still flying under the radar.
With so many vacationers flocking to the household names, it’s also much more likely to score a good deal.
Much like Los Cabos has Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, this resort hub of Guerrero has Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, although it’s commonly referred to as simply ‘Ixtapa’.
Ixtapa’s beautiful all-inclusive resorts can often be found for under $100 per night. And no, you won’t be sacrificing luxury at run-down hotels you’ve never heard of before.
Vacationers can expect to find respected brands such as Barcelo and Club Med. Heck, even Holiday Inn has an all-inclusive beach resort here!
Beyond the gorgeous shoreline is yet another stunner – beautiful Isla Ixtapa, an island that is a must-visit during your stay and just a few bucks to reach by water taxi.
Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt
Synonymous with world history, fascinating culture, and, of course, perhaps the world’s greatest mystery – Egypt’s pyramids – this country is often overlooked as a beach destination.
Especially when it comes to ritzy all-inclusive resorts.
The coastal resort town of Sharm el Sheikh lies along the stunning Red Sea which, ironically, has some of the bluest waters imaginable.
With warm temperatures year-round, Sharm el Sheikh is a great option for an all-inclusive beach getaway with the added bonus of discovering Egypt’s rich culture.
Rates are very affordable, such as Jaz Sharm Dreams, where travelers can find nightly all-inclusive rates of around $100.
Coclé Province of Panama
Away from the hustle and bustle of Panama City lies an underrated tranquil coastline of beautiful beaches and all-inclusive resorts.
No, not that Panama City for ‘Spring Breakers’ in Florida.
We’re talking about the thrilling country of Panama, filled with stunning scenery and cultural experiences.
Roughly 2 hours away from the Capital city, travelers seeking pure bliss should visit the coast of the Coclé Province between Playa Blanca and Playa Bijao.
Luxury resorts can be found through spring in the $100’s, such as the Gran Evenia Bijao and Hotel Riu Playa Blanca.
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
There are certain places that check all the boxes for the typical American traveler — and as an American myself, I can really tell when a place puts effort into making sure they set themselves apart to make us feel right at home.
Most recently, I had a fantastic stay at the Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana all-inclusive in the Dominican Republic, where I was blown away by how perfect it was, especially for Americans.
What Do Americans Look For On Vacation?
This question has an easy answer…
Easy
While not every American traveler wants to sit on the beach and sip on cocktails all day, many of us are looking for an escape from our day-to-day life. As such, we are looking for one thing above all else — we want everything to be easy.
The average American only gets 11 days of paid vacation per year. And while we could write a whole post on that fact alone, it is what it is.
As a result, most Americans don’t want to have to spend their days off worrying about where to eat, how much they are spending, how to find what they need, or anything else.
Easy, simple, fast, comfortable and convenient. That’s what most Americans are looking for on vacation, and the Live Aqua Beach Resort Punta Cana makes sure to provide it.
Here are 5 reasons why the Live Aqua Punta Cana all-inclusive is perfect for American travelers:
Everything Is Easy
This cannot be overstated. Staying at the Live Aqua Punta Cana made me realize just how much I want to live on a resort for the rest of my life ????. They made everything so incredibly easy I felt like I didn’t even have to think about doing anything for myself.
From the moment you check in until the moment you leave, your every need is catered to. In fact, you’ll may grow accustomed to their amazing service even before you land.
I had flight issues on the day I traveled down and ended up having to change my flight to land in Santo Domingo rather than Punta Cana. I could have pushed the flight back another day and stayed in Charlotte for the night, but I had plans I really did not want to miss the next day and was happy to pay the difference if needed.
99% of travelers will fly into the Punta Cana International Airport, and roundtrip airport transportation is included in their stay with Live Aqua.
As a result of my flight issues, I had to change my ground transport at the last minute, and the concierge was more than accommodating in making this happen. I never felt worried it wouldn’t be sorted out by the time I landed, and I was right not to.
Though my time on the road was much longer (and later) than I had anticipated, I landed in Santo Domingo and was quickly whisked away to the Live Aqua.
When I finally reached the resort, it was a bit after midnight. I wondered how check-in would go since it was so late, and it was a breeze! I was checked in within a minute or so, and the concierge took my bags, loaded them onto a golf cart, and drove me right to my room.
This level of service was already impressive and very welcomed after such a long travel day. When I got to my room, I scanned in with my new Live Aqua bracelet (another feature that makes staying there so easy) and got some much-needed rest in an ultra-comfy bed.
Here are some highlights of why everything is so easy at Live Aqua:
Resort Bracelet: No need to worry about forgetting your key while at the Live Aqua Punta Cana. When you check in, you’ll get a bracelet (don’t worry, it’s really comfy) that acts as your room key.
Personal Butler on WhatsApp: If you stay in a suite or book at club level, you’ll have constant access to your own butler via WhatsApp. This comes in handy when you have any requests at all, such as restocking the mini-fridge or bringing extra water bottles.
Food Is Always a Few Steps Away: There are so many food options, which are outlined more below, and you can always order room service too! In fact, when I arrived after midnight, the concierge made sure to ask if I was hungry after my long travel day. Anytime you are hungry, there will be food around.
Check-In/Out: I touched on this above, but checking into the Live Aqua Punta Cana was the easiest process ever, and checking out was exactly the same, which was great as I was rushing to make sure I made my flight out.
Endless Food Options With Good Portions
Americans are used to, quite frankly, portions that are more than necessary. For better or worse, most meals ordered out while in the States could easily be turned into 2, and this is what we are used to.
When traveling in certain areas of the world, I always have to remind myself not to expect the same thing abroad.
However, the Live Aqua Punta Cana makes you feel right at home with their portion sizes, and it doesn’t matter which restaurant you visit. And speaking of restaurants, you will never get bored of the variety. The Live Aqua boasts so many different places to eat and grab drinks it might even be hard to try them all!
Best of all, there is no need to make a reservation!
Many all-inclusives may have fine dining included as part of the stay, but you are often limited to certain nights, and you have to reserve your dinner in advance.
At Live Aqua, this is completely unnecessary. Want some fine-dining Italian food on a whim? Not a problem!
Places you can eat and drink include:
Liberi: This is the go-to spot when you want a bit of everything. A buffet-style restaurant that is great for breakfast or any other times you just want to stop in and eat right away.
Seishin: This is the perfect spot for people who love Asian fusion.
Cool Fever: This is the resort’s coffee shop, perfect for a quick pick me up after a morning walk on the beach.
Sospiro: This restaurant offers a feast of traditional Italian cuisine and was one of my favorites. I’m a sucker for Italian food, and this did not disappoint.
Compton St: This is a cool little sports bar offering quick bites and tasty drinks. It’s also a great place to play a round of pool.
Chez Rose: This is the perfect place for a more formal dinner and the French cuisine here is to die for. Highly recommend visiting at least once!
Miraflores: Get your Instagram ready, this casual spot is right on the beach and is the perfect place for a lunch with gorgeous views and a refreshing ocean breeze.
Miraflores at Live Aqua Punta Cana
ATL: Who doesn’t love Mexican food? Live Aqua is a Mexican-based brand, so they know what they are doing in ATL. Trust me, you’ll want to stop in.
Wonderpool: This is an outdoor casual area in the middle of all of the pools where you can take in the beautiful gardens a scenery with a tasty drink in hand.
Moonada: This rooftop bar overlooks the entire property as well as the beach and is a great spot to enjoy music and cocktails.
Huzur: A covered outdoor Mediterranean restaurant that overlooks one of the prettiest beaches in the Dominican Republic… what’s not to love?
The Strainer (aka the Lobby Bar): Don’t discount the lobby, it’s one of the prettiest parts of the resort! It’s also a great place to grab drinks and socialize while waiting for transportation before heading off on any day trips.
Constant Comfort
Are you sensing a theme here? Prepare for everything to be easy. Prepare to be constantly pampered. Prepare to have the most relaxing vacation you’ve ever had.
Live Aqua Punta Cana is one of the most relaxing places I have ever been, and I was beyond comfortable the entire time I was there.
The second you walk in, you are met with Live Aqua’s signature rubber duckies as well as their signature scent that immediately lets you know it is time to kick back and enjoy yourself.
I don’t know what the blend is, but if I had it at home, I don’t think I would ever get any work done ????.
My room was a den of comfort, and I still find myself daydreaming about the day bed right next to my own entrance to the swim-up pool just outside my room.
If you get the chance to book a swim-up suite or room, do it! It is so nice to be able to wake up and have a coffee in the inviting water just steps away from your bed while the sun comes up. After this trip, I’m totally sold on swim-up rooms and find myself looking for them whenever I travel.
But the comfort doesn’t stop in the room. All over the resort, you will find cozy spaces to dig into a bit of relaxation time. From the cabanas by the pool and beach to the inviting sofas in the lobby, you’ll not find an inch of the Live Aqua that doesn’t scream (or whisper, perhaps) relaaaxxx ????.
And if the constant comfort surrounding you isn’t enough to fill your cup, then head to the Feel Harmony Spa! Enjoy the different water rituals before heading to the sauna, or reverse order if you like. Just be sure to book the best massage you’ve had in ages before leaving!
I tried the deep tissue massage and felt like a new person when it was over. Seriously, the flight back to Punta Cana would be worth it just for another massage. Working entirely remotely means hours and hours on the computer, and I’m not the best at making sure I’m conscious of my posture.
As a result, my neck is pretty much always sore. After my deep tissue massage, I was able to move my head around pain-free for the first time in a long time!
Fast Service
I’ve lived in the Caribbean before for a time, and to spare specific islands any negativity, I’ll refrain from naming where. But one thing that can ring true in many areas is island time. And usually, this is a welcome experience after the constant go go go of the U.S.
However, waiting too long for food or drinks can get old for anyone if it takes too long, but most Americans (including myself) are used to very quick service.
Waiting more than a few minutes for a drink feels unnatural unless you live somewhere long enough to get used to it.
Luckily this was no issue at Live Aqua. Not only do they make sure to give the best service possible, but they also make sure it is quick. Whether it’s food, drinks, a request from your butler, or anything else, it’s unlikely that you’ll be waiting for long.
Constant Entertainment
America is known for constant entertainment, and as a result, we as Americans are always looking for the next thing to do, watch, or explore. I can only sit on the beach and read a book for so long before I feel like I need to move on to the next adventure.
I had no issue finding things to do at the Live Aqua, and I definitely plan to go back to explore some more. Not only does the resort itself have constant entertainment lined up for guests, but there are many fun day trips that are easy to set up right at the resort.
If you are headed to Punta Cana, I would highly recommend visiting the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Reserve with Tropical Incentives. On your way there, your guide will give you information about Punta Cana, and the history of the area is very interesting in and of itself.
Once on the reserve, you’ll be able to spot beautiful tropical birds, turtles, and more as you make your way through the reserve on your way to explore several cenotes. The water is clear as can be and super refreshing on a hot day.
Typically, I’d say the cenotes are a perfect way to get away from sargassum-covered beaches, but you don’t even have to worry about that at the Live Aqua, as they have sargassum barriers in place to keep their beaches pristine.
Live Aqua Punta Cana Sargassum Barriers
While at the resort, you can join in on the fun by checking out some of the shows they have at night or getting a workout in at one of the super-fun group fitness classes. There is always something going on, whether it be a fun group workout, bumping music, games, or a show.
The resort makes it easy to know what is going on as they give you the schedule when you check in, and they also post it on a giant board on your way to Liberi.
Summing Up
Punta Cana is an absolutely gorgeous slice of the Caribbean, and you would be doing yourself a disservice by staying in anything less than the best while there. Live Aqua is certainly among the best and is the perfect place for Americans (and everyone else) to unwind and enjoy all that Punta Cana has to offer.
If you decide to visit Punta Cana, definitely be sure to check out The Dominican Republic Sun for all the latest travel news for Punta Cana and more!
**Travel Off Path was a guest of Live Aqua Punta Cana, who helped with the creation of this itinerary by hosting some of our accommodations and attractions. Our opinions, recommendations, and suggestions remain our own.**
Where are the best all-inclusive resorts in Mexico?
With hundreds of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, it can be hard to choose where to stay. But new data from TripAdvisor just ranked the best luxury all-inclusive resorts in Mexico in 2023.
All-inclusive resorts have been getting more and more popular lately, offering a relaxing and hassle-free vacation for travelers who don’t want to worry about logistics or planning.
These are the best luxury all-inclusive resorts in Mexico that stand apart from the crowd:
1. Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun is the top-rated luxury all-inclusive resort in Mexico right now. Located in gorgeous Playa Maroma between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, this resort sets itself apart by being an adults-only and offering all suite-style rooms.
Some rooms are swim-out, meaning you have direct access to one of the resort’s 12 tropical swimming pools from your private terrace.
Another one of the best luxury all-inclusive resorts in Mexico is ATELIER Playa Mujeres. Just north of Cancun, this resort in Playa Mujeres is your own private slice of paradise.
Modern design meets tropical Mexican charm at this adults-only, all-suites resort where you can enjoy an 18-hole golf course, a private beach, multiple pools, a full-service spa, and more.
One of the most unique aspects of ATELIER Playa Mujeres is the included private butler service. Guests staying in select suites will have access to a private butler who can assist in making your vacation as relaxing and worry-free as possible.
This five-star all-inclusive resort takes all-inclusive dining to a whole new level, with seven distinctive and elevated restaurants where you can enjoy your meals each day. You can also have amazing experiences like a floating breakfast or a beach picnic when staying at this hotel.
@lafoodiegirl When they know food is your love language ????????????????????????????️????????☕️???? ———————— Los Cabos, Mexico ✨ @grandvelascabos ✨ Edition: ???????? Welcome Drinks ???????? Poolside options: Floating lunch, taco stand, swim-up bar cocktails. ???????? Restaurant Frida: Tortilla soup, Tomato Salad, barbacoa Sope. ???????? Cabrilla Cevichería: oriental style & shrimp/catch of the day ceviche Spicy Mango Margarita. ???????? Room Service breakfast ???????? Velas 10: Tomahawk Steak, Smoke Guava cocktail, baked potato, brownie & cheesecake. ???????? Azul: Octopus mixed grill, table side margaritas, blueberry mousse ???????? In room dining: full stocked fridge with Mexican liquors, tacos, nachos, guacamole+homemade tortilla chips ???????? Desserts: Paletas Cart (coco & hibiscus spiked paletas) Churros with ice cream & caramel, cacao mousse ???????? Frida Entrees: Red Snapper, Filet Mignon, Confit duck enmoladas. ???????? Coffee Options: Conchas sweet bread + cappuccino, flat white, iced coffee from Amat. The First and Only All-Inclusive in Mexico To Earn the Prestigious 5 star Rating by @forbes travel guide , Grand Velas Los Cabos features seven gourmet restaurants led by top chefs, including two-star Michelin chef Sidney Schutte. The Poolside & beach service were excellent…from their floating lunch trays, multiple swim up bars to the Tacos Stand & paleta cart. Of course 24/7 in room dining was the cherry on top, we had breakfast in our PJs everyday! Their is also the small walk up Amat cafe if you need your daily coffee fix. They even had Baby food/purées available for Kai from their baby concierge menu, it was amazing. I’ve never been to an all inclusive with such high quality cuisine & such diversity, absolutely recommend it. ????TELL ME: What’s your favorite all inclusive food experience? @velasresorts #myvelasexperience#LATGxMexico#allinclusive#mexico#mexicanfood#velasresorts#grandvelas#loscabos♬ La Bebe – Yng Lvcas
4. Hotel Xcaret Mexico
Hotel Xcaret Mexico in Playa del Carmen is one of the best luxury all-inclusive resorts for fun-loving travelers who want to do more than just lie on the beach all day.
The entertainment offerings at this hotel are top-notch, but it doesn’t stop there. Guests at this resort can take advantage of the “All-Fun Inclusive” offering.
This means that guests enjoy complimentary access to all of Xcaret’s properties along the Riviera Maya, including theme parks, water parks, and adventure parks.
Located in Puerto Morelos, a gorgeous beach town south of Cancun, Excellence Riviera Cancun is another one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Mexico.
This adults-only hotel is unique because of all the special touches they offer.
For example, if you’re staying here for longer than three days, you’ll receive a complimentary black car service to and from the Cancun Airport. You can also enjoy all meals and drinks from nine different restaurants and 12 different bars around the resort.
Finally, one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Mexico for 2023 is Beloved Playa Mujeres. This adults-only resort offers a tranquil escape just north of Cancun in Playa Mujeres.
What sets this resort apart is that it’s couples-only. This intimate boutique-style resort is the perfect place to go for a honeymoon, anniversary, or just a special vacation with your significant other. You can relax on the beach, enjoy a spa treatment for two, or indulge in the many dining options the resort has to offer.
Traveling with the family or a large group this summer can be costly. With rising gas prices and inflation, buying a plane ticket for more than four people can cost an arm and a leg. That’s why it’s best to look into all-inclusive hotels this summer.
If you’re unfamiliar with the all-inclusive concept, it’s a flat rate you pay at a hotel, and you get things like food and beverages all included in your stay.
Many all-inclusive hotels have almost theme-park-level amenities, so you’ll get most of your buck when there.
Occasional downsides of all-inclusives include heavy partying, which can get overwhelming if you’re not part of the post-college crowd.
That’s why it is important to select the right all-inclusive this summer. It varies on what kind of traveler you are, but getting the right one can make for a great vacation.
Europe is becoming one of the most visited destinations this season, and more all-inclusive are popping up. Take advantage of these offerings, but please remember to check out the rest of the country you’re visiting. People in all-inclusives often get stuck at the hotel and miss out on fun adventures.
These are the top seven destinations in Europe that offer all-inclusive resorts:
Marbella, Spain
This ritzy part of coastal Spain is known for having some of the best shopping and nightlife in the Iberian Peninsula.
Hotels like Club Med Magna Marbella are revisiting the idea of an all-inclusive and turning it into luxury. The hotel offers two restaurants and four bars focusing on local food from the region.
Spots like Meliá Marbella Banús offer possible rates for excellent amenities. If you’re visiting Spain this summer, check out this area.
Located on the island of Cyprus, which is a destination all on its own, Bafra is known as a vacation spot. This area has tons of luxury and regular hotels, and you’re bound to get a good one no matter where you go.
The Limak Cyprus Deluxe Hotel has reasonable rates for being such an incredible property.
Bourg-Saint-Maurice, France
Being in the French Alps is cool enough, but staying at one of the oldest all-inclusive hotels is even better.
The Arcs Extreme by Club Med offers all-inclusive ski packages, and if you’ve ever been skiing, you know how expensive it can get.
These packages range in capacity, but it’s definitely worth a gander.
Ibiza, Spain
The TRS Ibiza Hotel is a fantastic new island property with affordable options for many travelers. The hotel sits by a beach with many pools and bars where you can enjoy some time away.
It’s also a great place to meet people since most travelers there are indulging in the all-inclusive aspects of the property.
Other great affordable options include the beachside Hotel Vibra Algarb.
Limone Sul Garda, Italy
Located on Lago di Garda, Limone sul Garda is a majestic historic town in Italy’s Northern region.
The city was once known for producing lemons, which can still be found in many gastronomical options. This place has an excellent pool facing the lake.
Resorts like Hotel Leonardo Da Vinci offer all-inclusive options.
Rhodes, Greece
Rhodes is the largest Dodecanese Greek island, with tons of history behind it. It was captured by the knights of the Crusades at one point and then by the Ottomans.
No matter which hotel you select, you’ll get access to the blue waters Greece is known for having on its islands.
Málaga, Spain
Located in Andalucia, Málaga is a famous cruise port stop on Spain’s southern coast. It lies on the Costa del Sol, a renowned area in Andalucia for travelers.
Most of the options in this destination are tremendous and offer great amenities.
If you’re traveling to Europe this season, consider looking at an all-inclusive. Not only will you save money and time while traveling, but you’ll also stay at extraordinary properties built for every type of traveler.
The Dominican Republic is a hotspot for travelers to escape the winter weather and catch some rays at the beach. Even though Spring is quickly approaching, there are still some amazing affordable deals to check out this month! Right now, there are 5 all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic for under $150 per night!
Every hotel deal listed below was found here for February 23 through March 1, 2023, but similar deals can be found during other times of the year as well.
Gran Ventana Beach Resort
Welcome to Puerto Plata, a gorgeous beach town just an hour’s drive from the nearest major city of Santiago.
Here at the Gran Ventana, travelers have been enthralled with the hospitality they receive, where they feel welcomed like family. Especially the bartenders. One traveler, in particular, couldn’t get enough of their Miami Vice cocktails. Word of mouth has it there is a secret menu if you can find a bartender named Jackie. Ask for “the Jackie special,” and you won’t regret it!
The overall cleanliness and calmness of the resort are two other key elements that made this a “perfect vacation,” as one guest noted. Not to mention the close access to the D.R.’s world-famous beaches. This resort is set on Playa Dorada, where there are long stretches of sand and blue water, calm enough to enjoy a relaxing swim.
Located in the touristy beach town of Punta Cana is an all-inclusive resort with all the bells and whistles. Easily accessible from the Punta Cana airport, tourists can be in Vacation Mode in no time!
This stunning resort is located at one of D.R.’s most exclusive beaches, Bavaro Beach. Those looking for the ultimate relaxing getaway should strongly consider staying here, as recent guests have left raving reviews.
Those who stay here should expect a rooftop terrace with immaculate views of the ocean, along with a great selection of restaurants to choose from. There is also a rooftop pool with views of the beautiful white sandy beach.
Guests also felt comfortable in their spacious rooms with big-screen TVs and noted safety was visibly important to the hotel staff, who were jovial and welcoming.
At a low price of $92 per night, this place is an absolute steal!
PlayaBachata Spa & Resort
This lovely hotel is also in the quaint town of Puerto Plata. A large resort holding just under 1000 rooms has all the amenities vacationers could imagine.
Set on the beach and surrounded by lush greenery, those who come here can expect a relaxing getaway. Many guests have left glowing reviews mentioning how much they loved the entertainment. In particular, Frijolito put on a fun show and made everyone feel like they were part of the family.
The resort provides a ton of options to enjoy being outside for the day, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and bike rentals to explore the area in the cool breeze.
Guests can stay at PlayaBachata for as low as $116 per night!
Ocean Blue Sands Golf & Beach Resort
Also known as Ocean Blue and Sand, this picturesque resort is located in Punta Cana on Bavaro Beach. Besides the beach and wonderful hospitality, many golfers make this their go-to destination because of the nearby White Sands course.
There is also a casino and a pair of luxurious pools for guests to enjoy. With multiple restaurants to choose from, the Steakhouse is the main attraction, where multiple guests claim the steak was “cooked to perfection.”
Those who have stayed recently have bragged about the cleanliness of the entire hotel grounds, along with the easy access to the “best beach ever.”
The lowest price seen for this resort is just $125 per night!
Riu Republica
Riu is a hotel brand associated with the best of the best. According to recent travelers, this place meets the mark!
@rhetoreecal Riu Republica is an Adults Only All inclusive resort located in Punta Cana. The resort has WiFi, 8 swimming pools, mini bars in each room, water park, a gym, spa and much more. The resort has nightly entertainment and a club. Pros: Check In took about 20 mins but the overall process was simple because we checked in online. Staff is absolutely kind and accommodating and prioritizes cleanliness. Cons: Ran out of beach towels by noon so grab them early. Didn’t always have small face towels (but I always pack my own). Side notes: pack a light jacket for the cool evenings. Getting a taxi is super easy from the resort roughly $15-$20 to get to popular areas. #puntacana#dominicanrepublic#riurepublica#puntacanaDR#riuhotels♬ break my soul x just fine – amorphous
This adults-only hotel is also located in Punta Cana on the scenic Arena Gorda beach. Recommended for all types of travelers, it’s hard to imagine being disappointed with the natural beauty surrounding the resort and the endless food options in the all-inclusive package.
The hotel is open 24 hours per day, and guests have enjoyed late nights at the many bars to choose from. Apparently, the bartenders have a heavy hand since there are great reviews of the added tequila shots!
Given this resort is for adults, there is more of a party atmosphere. But guests claim the staff does everything in their power to ensure everyone has a positive experience.
This beautiful resort is as low as $138 per night!
Vacations are all about relaxing, escaping the routine, and truly enjoying a special moment at a beautiful place. All-inclusive resorts are the perfect solution to guarantee a seamless vacation experience.
While visiting a new city, exploring its museums, and getting around the nice neighborhoods is also an excellent vacation strategy, sometimes having busy schedules and checking all the boxes on a long bucket list can be stressful and daunting vacation.
Travelers who want to feel at ease during winter vacations are preferring resorts in warm and gorgeous destinations like the Caribbean. Here’s why all-inclusive resorts are getting so popular:
1. Stress-free Experience
Once a traveler books the flights and the stay at an all-inclusive resort there are very few decisions left to make and this can reduce stress significantly. Airports have been chaotic lately and just surviving the pandemic has been worrying enough for a very long time. There’s so much going on in the world already that staying at a place where guests can feel welcome, pampered, entertained, and relaxed seems like the perfect and deserving treat travelers need in 2023.
Another great advantage of all-inclusive resorts is that they provide a safe environment where guests don’t have to worry about personal safety or accidentally walking into a dangerous neighborhood in a foreign country. The language is not a barrier either as the staff and hosts usually have outstanding English skills.
2. Knowing Exactly How Much It’s Going To Cost
When it comes to budgeting a trip, all-inclusive resorts make it extra easy. Anyone can Google the average costs for a meal at a destination or check online menus for specific restaurants but there are always unexpected events and expenses that are impossible to predict while traveling.
Of course, the main attractions of all-inclusive resorts are the great amenities. Travelers will usually find pools, pristine beach access, different restaurants and bars, and there are so many options. According to Booking.com, there are 73 all-inclusive resorts currently available in Cancun and 83 in Punta Cana.
The resort experience is changing and now more hotel brands are interested in providing glamorous and exclusive services for guests. Daily massages at elegant spas and sit-downs a la carte restaurants included in the price? It’s already happening.
From amazing culinary experiences to special spa treatments and personalized services—including your own butler—, many resorts are offering royalty experiences to make their guests feel in heaven. Crowded pools and overwhelming buffets are staying in the past.
5. Unlimited Drinks
Buying multiple individual cocktails or specialty mocktails can be very expensive and worrying the day after having a great time at the beach and drinking multiple drinks. For those that love to overindulge in cocktails, the value of the all-inclusive is definitely worth it. Each resort has its own policies regarding the drinks, certain hotels charge extra fees for premium drinks, but even alcoholic drinks are usually included. Two more margaritas, please!
6. Endless Organized Activities
There’s so much to do at all-inclusive resorts! As if the private beach, the pools, spas, and fitness centers weren’t enough to stay entertained, there are usually amazing activities included. From fun parties at night to dancing lessons to morning yoga to diving courses, it’s impossible to get bored!
All kinds of travelers will encounter special and interesting activities to get the best of the resort and the destination. Many resorts offer off-property tours to safely explore places outside of the property like nature spots, museums, and buildings, and get more in touch with local culture and surroundings.
