An Insiders Guide to All- Inclusive Resorts: Hidden Fees to Watch for
Written by Fontain
Planning your dream Caribbean getaway? Before you click “book now” on that tempting all-inclusive package, there’s something you should know: the definition of “all-inclusive” varies dramatically from resort to resort. I’ve spent years analyzing the fine print, interviewing industry insiders, and collecting real guest experiences to uncover what’s really included—and what’s not—at the Caribbean’s most popular all-inclusive resorts. What I’ve discovered might surprise you. Some resorts genuinely include everything in their upfront price, while others use the term “all-inclusive” loosely, hiding significant costs in the fine print. The difference can mean hundreds or even thousands of unplanned dollars over the course of your vacation. This comprehensive guide cuts through the marketing hype to give you the unfiltered truth about what you’re actually getting for your money. From hidden fees and unexpected charges to genuinely valuable inclusions you might overlook, I’m sharing everything you need to know before you book. Let’s pull back the curtain on the Caribbean all-inclusive industry together…
RIU Palace Jamaica
Base Package Inclusions
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Dining Options: 5 restaurants included. (Main buffet “Montego Bay”, “Steakhouse”, “Hakuchi” Japanese, “Krystal” Fusion, “L’Acquedotto” Italian)
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Bars: 4 bars with standard house-brand liquors. (Lobby bar, Poolside bar, Sports bar, Beach bar)
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Activities: Daily entertainment program, group fitness classes, beach volleyball, pool tables.
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Water Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, introductory scuba lesson in pool.
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Entertainment: Nightly shows, and live music 3 times weekly.
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Gym Access: Fully equipped fitness center. (6 am-8 pm)
Premium Add-ons and Costs
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Premium Alcohol Brands: $12-18 per drink for top-shelf liquors.
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Spa Services: Starting at $85 for a basic massage, packages from $160.
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Excursions: Range from $65 for basic snorkeling to $185 for premium tours.
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Private Dining: Romantic beach dinner setup. ($150 per couple)
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Motorized Water Sports: Jet skis ($85/30 minutes), parasailing ($95)
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Golf: Nearby courses with preferred rates ($95-150) plus mandatory cart fees.
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Private Cabanas: $75 daily rental fee.
Hidden Mandatory Fees
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No resort fees (truly included in base price)
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Airport Transfers: Included in bookings of 5+ nights only, otherwise $35 per person each way.
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Safe Usage: No additional charge. (included)
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Towel Cards: $20 deposit per towel card. (refundable)
Gratuity Policies
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Officially Included: All service charges and gratuities are officially included.
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Reality: Staff can accept additional tips but no pressure.
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Pooled Tips: Tips are pooled among staff in many departments.
Wi-Fi Access Details
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Coverage: Full property coverage including rooms, restaurants, and beach areas.
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Device Limit: Up to 2 devices per room simultaneously.
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Speed: Standard browsing speed included, premium high-speed available for $12.99/day.
Water Sports Equipment Policies
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Non-motorized Equipment: Included but limited to 1-hour usage per day.
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Equipment Availability: First-come, first-served basis. (no reservations)
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Certification Requirements: PADI certification is required for scuba. (beyond intro lesson)
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Weather Restrictions: All water activities subject to cancellation based on weather conditions.
Entertainment Access Restrictions
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Shows/Entertainment: No reservations required, open seating.
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Age Restrictions: Adult-only property. (18+)
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Theme Nights: All included with no additional cost.
Room Service Limitations
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Hours: Available 24 hours.
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Menu Restrictions: Limited overnight menu. (11pm-7am)
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Delivery Fee: No additional charge.
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Order Limits: No stated limitations on the number of orders.
Minibar Restocking Policies
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Frequency: Restocked daily.
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Included Items: Beer, soft drinks, bottled water, basic spirits. (rum, vodka, whiskey)
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Special Requests: Honored when possible with no additional charge.
Reservation Requirements for Facilities
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Specialty Restaurants: No reservations taken – first-come, first-served.
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Tennis Courts: Reservations are required 24 hours in advance. (no fee)
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Fitness Classes: Sign-up is required for yoga and pilates classes. (no fee)
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Spa: Appointments required, 24-hour cancellation policy.