The four plans
These are the usual names, and what each one usually covers.
| Plan | Meals | Drinks |
|---|---|---|
| Bed and breakfast | Breakfast | Paid as you go |
| Half board | Breakfast and dinner | Usually paid as you go |
| Full board | Breakfast, lunch and dinner | Usually paid as you go |
| All inclusive | All meals | A set list, chosen by the resort |
Some resorts sell more than one all-inclusive plan, each with a longer list of drinks and extras than the one before.
What to check
Two plans with the same name can be quite different. Before you choose, it is worth knowing:
- Which drinks are included, and whether that means alcohol.
- Which restaurants you can eat in on your plan, and whether some charge extra.
- Whether the minibar, room service or a private dinner are covered.
- Whether any excursions or activities come with the plan.
- What children pay.
Drinks and alcohol
Alcohol is served at resorts and hotels, which import it under a special licence; it is not sold on local islands. You cannot bring your own without prior approval: alcohol bought on the plane or at duty-free shops on the way is confiscated when you land. So which drinks your plan covers matters more here than it might elsewhere.
Which plan suits you
There is no single right answer; it comes down to how you eat and drink on holiday. If you like a long lunch and a drink by the pool, all inclusive keeps things simple. If you eat lightly, or plan days out on the water, a smaller plan may cost less in the end.
Tell us how you like to eat, and we compare the plans at the resorts we suggest.