Are All-Inclusives Your Style?

The increase in competition for Caribbean vacationers have risen over time where it is becoming increasingly common to find all-inclusive packages in various price categories available throughout the year. What is meant by an all-inclusive? The package generally consists of accommodation, food and drinks included in one price. The various price categories will be an indication of the level options that may be available for example number of restaurants, pools, adults only, premium drinks etc. In shopping around you should note whether free airport transfers are provided, finding out too late can be an upsetting way to start your vacay!

 

Let's take a look at some common featured All-Inclusive resorts.

 

 

 

Which All-inclusive resort have you visited that you were impressed with all its offerings..food, rooms, amenities etc.?

Vacation on a Budget

The Caribbean as a destination is filled with many options for those wishing to do it on a budget. However, in making a selection there are many things to consider:
 

1. Flights
I believe choosing a destination that you can get there on low airfare is the first step in the process. It's very helpful to not just shop via a travel agency but also to explore deals that are available online using some resourceful websites listed below:
 

Expedia Travel Site  www.expedia.com

Caribbean Online www.col.com
Cheap Caribbean www.cheapcaribbean.com
 

2. Accommodation
Now that you may have narrowed down the destination, where will you be staying? For some islands such as Tobago and Barbados, there are many small reasonable hotels to consider that may be a short distance from beach access. I have seen a common trend lately of some of these hotels offering an all-inclusive option that caters for the budget-minded travellers, taking away the stress of where to dine.

3. Car rentals
I believe it's always a good idea to do this piece of research regarding car rentals. If you're anything like me, where you love to take advantage and explore the place you're visiting to get a true feel and experience, then renting a car should be part of your consideration. Driving to distant attraction sites, restaurants and beaches, this can all be planned in advance where you rent the car for part of your trip. When you consider the cost of some tours, I think grabbing a map and renting a vehicle may prove to be more economical and adventurous! In my trip to Barbados doing exactly this is what made my vacation one to remember!

4. Food
In planning a budget trip, the cost of food is certainly a consideration. Each island this budget may vary however, a good tip to remember is try to dine where the locals do! The food will be locally priced and if the locals flock there then it will be a great indication of how good the food is! In my visit to Tobago this could not be anymore True! I usually sample my crab and dumpling from the popular Store bay beach vendors however I was introduced to where the locals buy from, Barters! His little food place is located opposite the Royal Castle near Pigeon Point junction but I promise you this is definitely home cook styled! Value for your money too!

 

What factors aid in your decision when planning a budget vacation? I would love to hear your tips!

Jamaica...the North Coast!

When one imagine this beautiful isle...the beaches definitely comes to mind and the North coast offers extraordinary idyllic postcard worthy beaches! However, this region of Jamaica also offers many attractions for the nature and adventure seekers...a bit of everything! I will journey with you through the beaches and attractions of Negril, Montego Bay and Ochos Rios.

 

1. Negril Seven Mile Beach...the name says it all! Can you imagine vacationing on this gorgeous strip of Caribbean sea? Somebody pass me a drink while I unwind! The seven miles are dotted with many hotels where you can easily find one that fits your budget.

 

 

 

2. Negril Cliff...this beautiful geological formation juts out into the aqua blue waters of the Caribbean offering rewarding snorkelling experiences. However, the location is known for the world famous Rick's Cafe...renowned not for its drinks but rather for the thrill of cliff diving! Are you an adrenaline junkie? If yes....then a trip to the cliffs is a definite must!

 

 

 

3. Blue Hole Mineral Spring Ochos Rios...for those who wish to luxuriate in a natural underground mineral limestone bath, this will worth your while! Blue Hole is considered a hidden gem of the north coast offering beautiful caves and waterfalls to explore...if you have ever visited, will you recommend adding to one's itinerary?

 

 

 

4. Dunn's River Falls and Park Ochos Rios...this iconic attraction is a must! Explore Dunn's by trekking up the layered rocks that forms the river falls, a beautiful place to experience and you can relax afterwards in the refreshing pools at the top! I would suggest walking with aqua shoes to help your grip on the rocks as well as zip-lock bags to protect whatever you're carrying in your pockets!

 

 

 

5. Dolphin Cove Ochos Rios...ever wanted to swim or be up-close to these beautiful sea creatures? Dolphin Cove offers a truly magical experience offering various packages to suit your budget and desire; dolphin encounter, swim with the dolphins, dolphin trainer for a day? Have you ever visited? Share your experiences!  I am a dolphin lover and I am definitely putting this on my list for my next Jamaica trip!

 

 

 

6. Rose Hall Great House Montego Bay...for those who enjoy history and learning the past of a place, this great house offers a glimpse of the sugar plantation era of old Jamaica. In addition, the tale of the house is told renders Rose Hall as a mysterious site. The views offered from the great house is absolutely breath taking, so don't forget your camera guys! 

 

 

7. Doctor's Cave Beach...one of the most popular beaches in the Montego Bay area! The beach is public with a nominal entry fee of $6usd however it's worth it! A safe, beautiful beach to unwind in with gorgeous picturesque views of the Caribbean! It's definitely a spot to relax with a cold Red Stripe!