All inclusive resorts have always had a reputation of being a cheap booze filled party vacations. This farther from the truth in today’s all inclusive resorts. All-inclusive resorts have recently focused on the luxury segment, expanded to include more experiential activities and local culture, and integrated luxury brands and loyalty programs like Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection and Marriott Bonvoy. They also emphasize higher quality dining and unique experiences to cater to post-pandemic travelers seeking stress-free, memorable, and authentic vacations.
Luxury and Upscale Expansion
- Traditional mid-scale all-inclusive resorts have been joined by luxury and upper upscale options from major hotel brands like Hyatt and Marriott.
Focus on Experiences and Authenticity
- Resorts are moving beyond basic amenities to offer more immersive experiences, such as guided hikes, cultural outings, and local excursions, moving the focus to the destination itself.
- Some resorts provide “island inclusive” packages that include local tours and trips to areas outside the resort.
Enhanced Dining and Amenities
- The quality of food and drink has improved, with resorts employing executive chefs to offer healthy, fine-dining, and a number of the top resorts provide top shelf beverages.
Brand and Loyalty Integration
- Major hotel groups have entered the market through acquisitions and new brands, such as Hyatt’s acquisition of Apple Leisure Group (ALG) and the creation of its “Inclusive Collection”.
- Loyalty programs are being integrated, allowing members to use points earned from other properties for all-inclusive stays, like Marriott Bonvoy.
Industry and Market Trends
- The all-inclusive sector has rebounded strongly from the COVID-19 pandemic, with consumers increasingly seeking stress-free, experience-focused vacations.
- Traditional hotel brands see all-inclusive resorts as an opportunity to expand their offerings and increase market share.
Brands like The Ritz-Carlton and W Hotels have introduced their own all-inclusive offerings, signaling a significant shift in the sector.
The model is adapting to offer more personalized and sophisticated experiences to match changing consumer desires for meaningful travel.
