The phrase "all-inclusive resort" can conjure images of tacky beach parties fueled by watered-down margaritas, periodically interrupted by meals foraged from a desiccated buffet. Needless to say, the all-inclusive experience for guests staying at Harper-recommended properties is a far cry from the typical. In fact, Andrew Harper recommends numerous all-inclusive resorts around the world, ranging from family-friendly ranches and floating wilderness lodges to chic desert outposts and luxurious safari camps (and even a tranquil beach resort or two).
Because meals and often even all beverages are prepaid, all-inclusive properties may prove the perfect solution when traveling with a sizeable group of friends, or for an easy family getaway. No one has to try to figure out who ate what when dividing up the bill at the end of the stay, and if you're the one paying for your entire family, there are no surprises when you check out. Everyone can feel free to completely relax and enjoy themselves. That said, when choosing an all-inclusive resort, it's important to look at the list of inclusions and exclusions. Some properties don't include gratuities, for example, and others include meals and house alcohol but not activities or spa treatments. Especially if you are bringing a group, it's important that everyone understand what's included in the rate and what costs extra.
The Travel Office routinely receives raves about all-inclusive resorts. Here is some of the most recent feedback.
About Blackberry Farm in Tennessee's Great Smokey Mountains: "You will not believe the treatment we got. There is no word to describe the way they babied us! We have coined the phrase 'To be Blackberried.' And we loved being recognized as AH members. I didn't even have to flaunt it! They flaunted it for us." -AF
About King Pacific Lodge on British Columbia's Princess Royal Island: "Awesome place! Couldn't be better for our family! Highly recommend if looking for a luxury fishing and adventure resort." -MB
About Miraval, a spa in Arizona's Santa Catalina foothills: "It always amazes me how they make things taste so good for so few calories. The people are very service-oriented and most friendly. The place has a great energy and it comes a lot from the people." -IR
About explora Atacama in Chile's Atacama Desert: "explora Atacama was AMAZING!!! Really incredible in every way. Unexpectedly great scenery for starters—amazingly dramatic and unlike anything we've ever experienced. The hotel is very sophisticated architecturally, and makes imaginative use of things from the area. Incidentally, the explora website doesn't begin to do justice to the place or the experience." -LT
All-inclusive experiences aren't limited to resorts. A number of all-inclusive luxury cruise lines, such as Silversea, Seabourn and Crystal (which just became all-inclusive), also are part of the Andrew Harper Alliance group of partners. Canal cruise charters in France, such as those operated by Frontiers and Orient-Express, also include absolutely everything except gratuities.
Even certain land-based tours are all-inclusive. When traveling on a small-group tour with Andrew Harper travel partner Travcoa, all meals and even the gratuities for guides and drivers are included. With its "Dine-Around" program, guests may visit any restaurant in the city in which they stop, order whatever food they want, and Travcoa will reimburse for the expense! Now that is all-inclusive!
Traveling in all-inclusive style can be incredibly rewarding and relaxing. Wherever you're off to next, it's worth checking to see if there's an all-inclusive experience available.
About Twin Farms near Woodstock, Vermont: "Twin Farms was FABULOUS. It exceeded our expectations. The food was unbelievably delicious. The staff's attention to detail impressed both of us." -GB
About Cap Juluca in the Caribbean: "Perhaps it is the culture on Anguilla, but I have never experienced a friendlier and [more] courteous staff with the sole purpose of making certain the clientele was happy. This is perhaps the best place we have stayed in the Caribbean—and we have visited not all, but most of the islands." -VM
About Singita Lebombo and Singita Boulders near South Africa's Kruger National Park: "The most amazing part of the trip, aside from just sheer location, was the staff. At both lodges, we had an assigned guide, tracker and butler. I loved them all—knowledgeable and truly delightful people. There are just not enough words to describe how wonderful they all were." -CB
About The Resort at Paws Up on Montana's Blackfoot River: "Our stay at Paws Up was sensational. It is a beautiful, first-class facility. It is very well appointed and immaculately maintained. We stayed in tents that certainly redefined "camping." Our three-generation family of 12 left Paws Up relaxed and filled with many good memories of our special time together and with hopes of returning." -LS
Andrew Harper members have access to full travel-planning services through Andrew Harper Travel.
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