Shawna LevetAll-inclusive vacation experiences are making a comeback. They were the original model for luxury travel. Then they kind of got pushed aside for the “curated experience.” Now they are back as a fresher, streamlined experience while still having that curated feel.
“This new wave of all-inclusives is all about luxury, offering a raft of enticements from gourmet à la carte dining to personal butler service to high-end experiences unique to their locales. Notably, many of these properties are being launched by luxury hospitality brands entering the all-inclusive arena for the first time.” –Forbes Magazine
5 Reasons Why All-Inclusive Experiences Are Making a Comeback
So why is it exactly that the all-inclusive idea is thriving yet again? Could it be yet again a post-COVID trend we never saw coming? There are many reasons, but a lot of them center around the idea that we’re simply overwhelmed with choices, planning, and scheduling. All inclusive meets a need for the traveler who just needs a little escape.
1. Wellness travel is front and center
The “wellness trend” is more than a trend. Our fast-paced, plugged-in lives are taking a toll and we know it! Wellness is affecting consumer choices in every arena – from dining, to leisure, to housekeeping and work life. Everyone is asking the question: Is what I’m doing contributing to my physical, mental, and emotional wellness? Travel is certainly no exception.
There was a time we wanted to cram as much as we could into a weeklong stay. See all the sights, do all the activities – go, go, go! The new mantra is “travel slowly.” An all-inclusive resort is the perfect setting for a slow, stress-free getaway. There is no stress about whether or not something fits in your schedule or budget because it has all been taken care of in advance.
All-inclusive locales lend themselves to wellness experiences easily: Sunrise pilates at the beach, afternoons at the spa, maybe an evening whole food cooking class? All-inclusive is hands-down the best option for the wellness traveler.
2. Less planning stress
Decision fatigue is a real thing. This is one key reason clients seek out travel advisors when planning a longer vacation. Choosing the perfect restaurants for three meals a day, organizing tours and excursions in a way that fits the schedule… It’s a lot! And even with a travel advisor’s wealth of experience to guide a client through the process, the maximalist itinerary is a lot to think through.
If your traveler isn’t really seeking an “off-roads” experience, all-inclusive could be the way to go.
3. Bigger travel budgets
No matter what the economy looks like, travel is one area where most people aren’t willing to skimp. In fact, statistics show that the average traveler’s budget increased by $753 – or 28% – over the past year. Even in hard times – or maybe especially during hard times – the need for travel never dissipates. The
4. Resorts are offering better packages
Travelers have long asked for a greater variety of entertainment and dining at their favorite all-inclusive destinations. And that request has been heard. Take Gran Velas Los Cabos, for instance, which boasts 7 distinctly-themed restaurants right on site. Resorts like this allow for that round-the-world experience travelers crave without ever having to leave the property.
How to Help Your All-Inclusive Clients
Clients only want to do all-inclusive if they are sure it’s worth the money. How do you make sure you are matching your clients with properties and resorts that are perfect for them? By going yourself! Get the full resort experience by taking a FAM trip and taking lots of notes. You can get great deals on your FAM trips by networking with suppliers and by being willing to travel during the off season.
