And Insiders Guide to All-Inclusive Resorts: Hidden Fees to Watch for

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

• Dining Options: 5 restaurants included. (Main buffet "Montego Bay", "Steakhouse", "Hakuchi" Japanese, "Krystal" Fusion, "L'Acquedotto" Italian)

• Bars: 4 bars with standard house-brand liquors. (Lobby bar, Poolside bar, Sports bar, Beach bar)

• Activities: Daily entertainment program, group fitness classes, beach volleyball, pool tables.

• Water Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, introductory scuba lesson in pool.

• Entertainment: Nightly shows, and live music 3 times weekly.

• Gym Access: Fully equipped fitness center. (6 am-8 pm)

Premium Add-ons and Costs

• Premium Alcohol Brands: $12-18 per drink for top-shelf liquors.

• Spa Services: Starting at $85 for a basic massage, packages from $160.

• Excursions: Range from $65 for basic snorkeling to $185 for premium tours.

• Private Dining: Romantic beach dinner setup. ($150 per couple)

• Motorized Water Sports: Jet skis ($85/30 minutes), parasailing ($95)

• Golf: Nearby courses with preferred rates ($95-150) plus mandatory cart fees.

• Private Cabanas: $75 daily rental fee.

Hidden Mandatory Fees

• No resort fees (truly included in base price)

• Airport Transfers: Included in bookings of 5+ nights only, otherwise $35 per person each way.

• Safe Usage: No additional charge. (included)

• Towel Cards: $20 deposit per towel card. (refundable)

Gratuity Policies

• Officially Included: All service charges and gratuities are officially included.

• Reality: Staff can accept additional tips but no pressure.

• Pooled Tips: Tips are pooled among staff in many departments.

Wi-Fi Access Details

• Coverage: Full property coverage including rooms, restaurants, and beach areas.

• Device Limit: Up to 2 devices per room simultaneously.

• Speed: Standard browsing speed included, premium high-speed available for $12.99/day.

Water Sports Equipment Policies

• Non-motorized Equipment: Included but limited to 1-hour usage per day.

• Equipment Availability: First-come, first-served basis. (no reservations)

• Certification Requirements: PADI certification is required for scuba. (beyond intro lesson)

• Weather Restrictions: All water activities subject to cancellation based on weather conditions.

Entertainment Access Restrictions

• Shows/Entertainment: No reservations required, open seating.

• Age Restrictions: Adult-only property. (18+)

• Theme Nights: All included with no additional cost.

Room Service Limitations

• Hours: Available 24 hours.

• Menu Restrictions: Limited overnight menu. (11pm-7am)

• Delivery Fee: No additional charge.

• Order Limits: No stated limitations on the number of orders.

Minibar Restocking Policies

• Frequency: Restocked daily.

• Included Items: Beer, soft drinks, bottled water, basic spirits. (rum, vodka, whiskey)

• Special Requests: Honored when possible with no additional charge.

Reservation Requirements for Facilities

• Specialty Restaurants: No reservations taken - first-come, first-served.

• Tennis Courts: Reservations are required 24 hours in advance. (no fee)

• Fitness Classes: Sign-up is required for yoga and pilates classes. (no fee)

• Spa: Appointments required, 24-hour cancellation policy.

Bahia Principe Grand Jamaica

Base Package Inclusions

• Dining Options: 3 buffet restaurants, 3 à la carte specialty restaurants (Italian, Japanese, Steakhouse) with 3 à la carte visits per week allowed.

• Bars: 7 bars with standard house-brand liquors.

• Activities: Daily entertainment program, tennis courts, group classes. (salsa, aerobics)

• Water Activities: Snorkeling equipment (1 hour/day), kayaks, paddleboards.

• Entertainment: Nightly shows, daytime poolside activities.

• Gym Access: Fitness center (7am-7pm)

Premium Add-ons and Costs

• Premium Alcohol Brands: $8-15 per drink for premium liquors.

• Spa Services: Starting at $75 for basic treatments, packages from $150.

• Excursions: Range from $55 for basic tours to $175 for premium experiences.

• Extra Restaurant Visits: Additional à la carte visits beyond allotment. ($35 per person)

• Motorized Water Sports: Available through a third-party vendor on the beach. (jet skis $75/30 min)

• Butler Service: $75/day for premium room categories only.

• Late Check-out: $10 per hour after 12 pm up to 6 pm maximum.

Hidden Mandatory Fees

• No explicit resort fees

• Airport Transfers: Not included, $30 per person each way.

• Safe Usage: Included in room rate.

• Environmental Fee: $1.50 per room per night collected at check-in.

Gratuity Policies

• Technically Included: All service charges are included in the rate.

• Cultural Expectation: Tipping is expected and widely practiced despite the "no tipping" policy.

• Staff Categories: Housekeeping and bartenders most commonly tipped.

Wi-Fi Access Details

• Basic Wi-Fi: Free in the lobby and public areas only.

• Room Wi-Fi: Basic package included, premium package $12.99/day.

• Device Limit: 2 devices per room on basic package, 4 on premium.

• Speed Limitations: The basic package is adequate for email and basic browsing only.

Water Sports Equipment Policies

• Time Restrictions: Non-motorized equipment is limited to 1 hour per day.

• Deposit Required: $20 deposit for snorkel equipment. (refundable)

• Availability Hours: The water sports center is open 9 am-5 pm only.

• Instructor Fees: Basic instruction included, extensive guidance $25/hour.

Entertainment Access Restrictions

• Show Seating: First-come, first-served basis.

• Adults-Only Events: Some evening entertainment is restricted to 18+ after 9vpm.

• Casino Access: On-site casino entrance free, but all games and slots require payment.

Room Service Limitations

• Hours: Available 7am-11pm only.

• Delivery Fee: $7.50 per order service charge.

• Menu Restrictions: Limited selection compared to restaurants.

• Order Frequency: No stated limitations.

Minibar Restocking Policies

• Frequency: Restocked every other day.

• Included Items: 2 beers, 4 soft drinks, 2 bottles of water daily.

• Premium Additions: Special requests incur charges.

• Initial Stocking: First stocking guaranteed, subsequent restocks subject to availability.

Reservation Requirements for Facilities

• Specialty Restaurants: Reservations required, must be made 24-48 hours in advance.

• Tennis Courts: Reservation required, maximum 1 hour per day.

• Spa Services: 24-hour advance booking required, 50% charge for cancellations under 4 hours.

• Beach Loungers: No formal reservation system, but staff often holds spots for tipping guests.

Key Differences Worth Noting:

Restaurant Access:

• RIU offers unlimited access to all restaurants without reservations.

• Bahia Principe limits specialty restaurant visits to 3 per week and requires reservations.

Hidden Costs:

• RIU includes airport transfers for longer stays.

• Bahia Principe charges an environmental fee and a room service delivery fee.

Wi-Fi Coverage:

• RIU provides property-wide Wi-Fi.

• Bahia Principe only includes basic Wi-Fi in public areas.

Room Service:

• RIU offers 24-hour room service at no additional charge.

• Bahia Principe has limited hours and charges a delivery fee.

Minibar Policy:

• RIU restocks daily with basic spirits included.

• Bahia Principe restocks every other day with more limited offerings.

All-Inclusive Transparency Breakdown: Mid-Range Properties

Sandals Montego Bay

Base Package Inclusions

Dining Options: 12 restaurants included (Bayside, Cucina Romana, Butch's Chophouse, Tokyo Jo's, Jerk Shack, Soy Sushi Bar, Café de Paris, Dino's Pizzeria, The Mariner, Stew Fish, Cricketer's Pub, Schooner's.

• Bars: 7 bars with premium spirits included (Swim-up Pool Bar, Palms Bar, Bayside Bar, Cricketer's Pub, Dino's Bar, Over-the-Water Bar, Loyalty & Travel Desk Bar.

• Activities: Beach volleyball, basketball, table tennis, lawn chess, day/night tennis, fitness center.

• Water Activities: Unlimited scuba diving for certified divers, snorkeling, Hobie cats, paddleboards, kayaks, water trikes, and glass-bottom boats.

• Entertainment: Live shows, talent nights, beach parties, Caribbean nights, piano bars, and themed events.

• Gym Access: 24-hour fitness center with modern equipment.

Premium Add-ons and Costs

• Spa Services: Red Lane® Spa treatments start at $130 for a 50-minute massage.

• Private Candlelight Dinner: $250 per couple.

• Photography Services: Various packages from $150-800.

• Private Cabanas: $150-250 per day depending on location.

• PADI Certification: $450 for the resort certification course.

• Island Routes Tours: Various excursions ranging from $90-300.

• Wine by the Bottle: Premium wine selection beyond house wines, $40-250.

Hidden Mandatory Fees

• No resort fees  Truly all-inclusive.

• Airport Transfers: Included in all bookings.

• Tips: Strictly no tipping policy. (genuinely enforced)

• Wedding Packages: Advertised as "free" but require a minimum 3-room booking for 3 nights.

Gratuity Policies

• No Tipping Allowed: Staff are not permitted to accept tips.

• Service Charges: Completely included in the booking rate.

• Butler Service: Available in top-tier rooms with no tipping expected.

Wi-Fi Access Details

• Coverage: Property-wide high-speed Wi-Fi.

• Device Limit: Unlimited devices.

• Speed: High speed in all areas including beaches.

• Premium Option: None needed as standard is high quality.

Water Sports Equipment Policies

• Equipment Usage: Unlimited use with no time restrictions.

• Instruction: Basic instruction is included for all non-motorized water sports.

• Scuba Limits: Up to two tanks per day for certified divers.

• Certification Requirements: Must be certified for scuba diving or pay for a resort course.

• Equipment Quality: Professional-grade equipment provided.

Entertainment Access Restrictions

• Shows/Entertainment: No reservations required.

• Age Restrictions: Adults-only resort 18+.

• Special Events: Returning guest dinner requires Sandals Select membership.

• Cross-Property Access: Full exchange privileges at Sandals Royal Caribbean with included transfers.

Room Service Limitations

• Hours: 24-hour room service is included in all room categories.

• Menu Restrictions: Full menu during the day, limited overnight menu.

• Delivery Fee: No charge.

• Butler Rooms: Enhanced room service presentation and options.

Minibar Restocking Policies

• Frequency: Restocked daily.

• Included Items: Beer, wine, premium spirits, soft drinks, bottled water.

• Special Requests: Accommodated through pre-arrival concierge.

• Room Categories: Higher categories get expanded selections.

Reservation Requirements for Facilities

• Specialty Restaurants: No reservations are needed except for Butch's Chophouse 24 hours in advance.

• Tennis Courts: Reservations are recommended for night tennis.

• Fitness Classes: Sign-up is required for specialized classes.

• Scuba Diving: Must be booked 24 hours in advance.

Barceló Bávaro Beach (Dominican Republic)

Base Package Inclusions

• Dining Options: 4 restaurants included Caribe Buffet, La Brisa Mediterranean, Chez Gourmet French, La Fuente Spanish Tapas, plus access to El Coral Snack Bar.

• Bars: 3 bars with standard house-brand liquors. Lobby Bar, Beach Bar, Swim-up Pool Bar)

• Activities: Daily entertainment program, tennis, beach volleyball, table tennis, and aerobics classes.

• Water Activities: One hour daily of kayaks, windsurfing, and catamaran sailing.

• Entertainment: Nightly shows at the theater, access to the casino. (games not included)

• Gym Access: Fitness center. 7 am-8 pm

• Golf: One complimentary green fee per person per stay (mandatory cart fee $45 applies)

Premium Add-ons and Costs

• Premium Alcohol Brands: $5-15 surcharge per premium drink.

• Spa Services: U-Spa treatments start at $80, and packages from $180.

• Excursions: Range from $65 for half-day to $189 for full-day experiences.

• Premium Club Upgrade: $40-80 per person per day depending on season.

• Late Check-out: $10 per hour until 6 pm if available.

• Golf Cart Fees: Mandatory $45 per round even with "free" green fees.

• Wi-Fi Premium: $12.99 per day for high-speed option.

Hidden Mandatory Fees

• Hotel Service Charge: 10% of room rate collected at check-in.

• Tourism Fee: $10 per room per night collected at check-in.

• Safe Usage: $3 per day charged automatically.

• Airport Transfers: Not included, $35 per person each way.

Gratuity Policies

• Officially Included: Base gratuities are included in the rate.

• Actual Practice: Staff expect additional tips.

• Premium Club Rooms: Dedicated service staff with higher expectations for gratuities.

• Suggested Amounts: The hotel provides suggested gratuity guidelines in the room.

Wi-Fi Access Details

• Basic Wi-Fi: Free in the lobby only. (limited to 1 hour per day)

• Room Wi-Fi: Basic package $9.99/day, premium $12.99/day.

• Device Limit: 2 devices on basic, 4 on premium.

• Premium Club Rooms: Complimentary premium Wi-Fi included.

Water Sports Equipment Policies

• Time Restrictions: Non-motorized equipment is limited to 1 hour per day.

• Reservation System: Must reserve equipment 24 hours in advance.

• Weather Restrictions: No credits/refunds for weather cancellations.

• Instruction: Basic instruction included, advanced lessons $25/hour.

• Motorized Options: Available at additional cost. ($65-120 per hour)

Entertainment Access Restrictions

• Shows/Entertainment: Open access to shows.

• Casino: Entrance free, games require payment.

• Adults-Only Areas: Some bars are adults-only after 10 pm.

• Premium Club: Exclusive access to certain events for Premium Club guests.

Room Service Limitations

• Hours: Available 7 am-11 pm.

• Room Categories: Standard in Premium Club rooms, $15 delivery fee for other rooms.

• Menu Restrictions: Limited menu compared to restaurants.

• Order Limitations: Maximum 4 items per order.

Minibar Restocking Policies

• Frequency: Standard rooms restocked every other day, Premium Club daily.

• Included Items: 2 beers, 4 soft drinks, 2 bottles of water.

• Premium Club Upgrade: Includes spirits and expanded selection.

• Special Requests: $5 service fee for special requests.

Reservation Requirements for Facilities

• Specialty Restaurants: Reservations are required one day in advance, and restricted to 3 visits per week.

• Golf: Tee times must be reserved 48 hours in advance.

• Spa Services: 24-hour advance booking is recommended.

• Tennis Courts: Same-day reservations are available.

Club Med Punta Cana

Base Package Inclusions

• Dining Options: 3 restaurants included (Samana main buffet, Indigo Beach Lounge, Hispaniola Specialty)

• Bars: 3 bars with standard and some premium liquors included

• Activities: Daily fitness classes, tennis, basketball, soccer, archery, pickleball

• Water Activities: Sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing with group lessons

• Entertainment: Nightly shows, themed parties, CREACTIVE by Cirque du Soleil (circus activities)

• Gym Access: Fitness center with scheduled classes

• Kids Programs: Mini Club Med (4-10), Junior Club Med (11-17) with dedicated activities

• Circus School: CREACTIVE by Cirque du Soleil program included

Premium Add-ons and Costs

• Spa Services: Club Med Spa by L'OCCITANE treatments from $90

• Excursions: Range from $45 for half-day to $120 for full-day tours

• Baby Club Med: Childcare for ages 4-23 months at $95 per day

• Private Lessons: Tennis, golf, sailing private instruction $60-90 per hour

• Golf: Green fees not included - $75-150 per round at nearby courses

• Premium Wines/Champagnes: $40-200 per bottle

• Photography Services: Photo packages from $99

Hidden Mandatory Fees

• Membership Fee: $60 annual Club Med membership fee per adult

• Airport Transfers: Included only with air-inclusive packages

• Tourist Card: $10 Dominican Republic entry card not included

• Holiday Supplements: Surcharges of $20-50 per night during peak holidays

Gratuity Policies

• No Tipping Culture: Officially no tipping is required or expected

• Resort Staff: Known as "GOs" (Gentil Organisateurs) - truly do not expect tips

• Special Services: Spa treatments customarily tipped at 15-20%

• Holiday Fund: Optional contribution to staff holiday fund at departure

Wi-Fi Access Details

• Coverage: Full property coverage

• Device Limit: Unlimited devices

• Speed: Standard speed throughout

• Premium Option: No premium upgrade is needed or offered

Water Sports Equipment Policies

• Equipment Usage: Unlimited use with no time restrictions

• Group Lessons: Included daily for beginners and intermediate levels

• Certification Requirements: None for non-motorized activities

• Weather Contingencies: Indoor activities substituted during bad weather

• Motorized Options: Not available at this property

Entertainment Access Restrictions

• Shows/Entertainment: Open to all guests

• CREACTIVE Program: Limited spots for some circus activities - sign-up required

• Age Restrictions: Some evening entertainment oriented toward adults but not restricted

• Special Events: All included regardless of room category

Room Service Limitations

• Availability: No traditional room service

• Deluxe Rooms: Continental breakfast delivery only

• Suites: Full breakfast service included

• Meal Delivery: Not available for lunch or dinner in any room category

Minibar Restocking Policies

• Standard Rooms: No minibar, water stations throughout the property

• Deluxe Rooms: Small refrigerator with daily water

• Suites: Daily restocked with soft drinks and water

• Alcohol: Not included in any room minibar

Reservation Requirements for Facilities

• Restaurants: No reservations required or accepted

• CREACTIVE Activities: Sign-up is required each morning for daily circus activities

• Sports Lessons: Sign-up required for group lessons

• Excursions: 24-hour advance booking required

Key Differences Worth Noting:

• Sandals offers the most comprehensive "no nickel-and-diming" approach

• Barceló uses a tiered system with significant benefits restricted to Premium Club guests

• Club Med includes unique activities (Cirque du Soleil program) but has membership fees

Hidden Fee Variations:

• Only Sandals truly includes airport transfers for all bookings

• Barceló has the most separate fees (service charge, safe usage, tourism fee)

• Club Med's annual membership fee is often overlooked by first-time bookers

Wi-Fi Policies:

• Dramatic differences from Sandals' unlimited high-speed to Barceló's limited lobby-only basic access

• Perfect example of "all-inclusive" meaning different things at different properties

Room Service Disparities:

• Ranges from Sandals' 24-hour service to Club Med's virtual non-existence

• An important consideration for guests who value in-room dining

Reservation Requirements:

• Sandals' mostly reservation-free approach versus Barceló's strict booking system

• Club Med's unique daily sign-up system for activities

Luxury Tier Resorts

Excellence Playa Mujeres (Mexico)

Base Package Inclusions

• Dining Options: 10 restaurants included (Agave Mexican, Barcelona Mediterranean, Basmati Indian, Flavor Market tapas, Lobster House seafood, Chez Isabelle French, Spice Asian, The Grill steakhouse, Las Olas beach restaurant, The Kitchen Table buffet)

• Bars: 11 bars with premium brand spirits included (Martini Bar, Cigar Bar, Coffee House, X-Lounge, Revive Bar, Pool Bars x3, Swim-up Bars x2, Theater Bar)

• Activities: Daily entertainment, yoga, dance classes, Spanish lessons, cooking classes, beach volleyball, tennis, basketball

• Water Activities: Non-motorized watersports including kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, snorkeling

• Entertainment: Live music, shows, theme nights, beach parties

• Gym Access: 24-hour fitness center with modern equipment, scheduled classes

• Hydrotherapy Circuit: Daily access to Excellence Club guests, once per stay for standard guests

Premium Add-ons and Costs

• Spa Services: Miilé Spa treatments from $150 for basic 50-minute massage

• Excellence Club Upgrade: $60-100 per person per day (private lounge, beach, restaurant access)

• Private Yacht Excursions: $950-1,800 depending on duration

• Wine Upgrades: Premium wine list beyond house selections ($45-300)

• Private Beachfront Dinner: $250 per couple

• Golf: Greg Norman course nearby, $180-230 per round including cart

• Private Airport Transfers: $120 one-way for private SUV vs. standard shared shuttle

Hidden Mandatory Fees

• No resort fees

• Airport Transfers: Shared shuttle included

• Environmental Tax: $1.50 per room per night collected at check-in

• Gratuities: Included but additional tipping common

• Wedding Packages: "Free" package requires minimum 7-night stay in specific room categories

Gratuity Policies

• Officially Included: All service charges included in rate

• Actual Practice: Additional tipping customary and staff clearly appreciate it

• Suggested Amounts: $1-5 for bartenders, $10-20 daily for housekeeping

• Butler Service: Available in higher suite categories, customary to tip $20-25 per day

Wi-Fi Access Details

• Coverage: Property-wide high-speed Wi-Fi

• Device Limit: Unlimited devices

• Speed: High-speed in all areas including beach

• Excellence Club: Priority bandwidth for club guests

Water Sports Equipment Policies

• Equipment Usage: Unlimited use of non-motorized equipment

• Instruction: Basic instruction included, certified instruction extra

• Availability: 9am-5pm, weather permitting

• Deposit: No deposit required

• Motorized: Available at additional cost ($80-150)

Entertainment Access Restrictions

• Shows/Entertainment: No reservations required

• Adults-Only: Property is adults-only (18+)

• Excellence Club: Some events exclusive to club guests

• Maximum Capacities: Theater shows may reach capacity during high season

Room Service Limitations

• Hours: 24-hour room service included

• Menu Restrictions: Full menu all day, slightly reduced overnight

• Delivery Fee: No charge

• Order Frequency: Unlimited orders permitted

Minibar Restocking Policies

• Frequency: Restocked daily

• Included Items: Premium spirits, wine, beer, soft drinks, snacks

• Excellence Club: Enhanced premium selection plus wine cooler

• Special Requests: Accommodated through concierge at no extra charge

Reservation Requirements for Facilities

• Specialty Restaurants: No reservations required or accepted

• Spa Services: Recommend booking 24 hours in advance

• Tennis Courts: Reservation required, complimentary equipment

• Hydrotherapy Circuit: Reservations required for non-Excellence Club guests

Jade Mountain (St. Lucia)

Base Package Inclusions

• Dining Options: 2 dedicated restaurants included (Jade Mountain Club, Celestial Terrace) plus access to Anse Chastanet's 4 additional restaurants

• Bars: Jade Mountain Club bar and in-sanctuary service with premium spirits

• Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, jungle biking, yoga, meditation classes

• Water Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, Sunfish sailing

• Entertainment: Weekly rum tastings, chocolate lab tastings from estate-grown cacao

• Gym Access: Fitness studio with scheduled yoga and fitness classes

• Beach Access: Two beaches (Anse Chastanet and Anse Mamin) with full service

• Chocolate Lab: Interactive chocolate-making workshops from estate-grown cacao

Premium Add-ons and Costs

• Spa Services: Kai en Ciel spa treatments from $175

• Private Dining: In-sanctuary dining service setup fee $90

• Scuba Diving: $80 per dive for certified divers (package rates available)

• Private Boat Charters: $800-1,500 depending on duration

• Wine Collection: Extensive collector's wine list beyond included house wines ($75-1,000+)

• Private Guided Tours: Personalized island excursions $250-500

• Airport Helicopter Transfer: $350 per person vs. included ground transfer

Hidden Mandatory Fees

• No resort fees

• Service Charge: 10% included in rate

• Airport Transfers: Ground transfers included

• Wedding Packages: "Free" wedding requires 7-night minimum stay

• Christmas/New Year: Mandatory gala dinner supplement ($195-250 per person)

Gratuity Policies

• Service Charge: 10% service charge included

• Major Domos (Butlers): Individual service staff assigned to each sanctuary, customary to tip $100-150 per week

• Additional Tipping: At guest discretion, not required but appreciated

Wi-Fi Access Details

• Coverage: Available in sanctuaries and public areas

• Intentional Limitation: Deliberately no TVs, telephones or strong Wi-Fi in some areas to promote "sanctuary" concept

• Device Limit: No limit

• Technology Philosophy: Resort promotes "technology disconnection" as a feature

Water Sports Equipment Policies

• Equipment Usage: Unlimited use with no time restrictions

• Instruction: Basic orientation included, PADI certification courses extra

• Reservations: Not required for non-motorized equipment

• Dedicated Beach Team: Staff assistance with all equipment

• Special Equipment: Underwater cameras available for rental ($45 per day)

Entertainment Access Restrictions

• Activities Schedule: Weekly schedule of activities with sign-up

• Chocolate Lab: Limited to 8 participants, reservation required

• Jazz Events: Seasonal jazz performances, limited seating

• Spa Treatments: Advance booking strongly recommended (72+ hours)

Room Service Limitations

• In-Sanctuary Dining: 24-hour with full restaurant menu

• Service Style: Major Domo sets up complete dining experience in sanctuary

• Delivery Fee: $90 setup fee for private dining experiences

• Special Requests: Customized dining experiences accommodated

Minibar Restocking Policies

• Frequency: Twice-daily refresh

• Included Items: Premium spirits, wine, champagne, craft beer, artisanal snacks

• Special Requests: Personalized according to guest preferences

• Welcome Setup: Personalized welcome amenities based on guest preferences

Reservation Requirements for Facilities

• Jade Mountain Club: Dinner reservations recommended during peak season

• Spa Services: Advance booking essential (72+ hours recommended)

• Chocolate Lab: Reservations required 24 hours in advance

• Private Beach Dinners: 24-hour notice required

• Excursions: 48-hour notice for custom private tours

Spice Island Beach Resort (Grenada)

Base Package Inclusions

• Dining Options: 2 restaurants included (Oliver's gourmet restaurant, Sea and Surf Terrace & Bar)

• Bars: Main bar and beach bar with premium spirits

• Activities: Yoga, tennis, cycling, golf green fees at nearby 9-hole course

• Water Activities: Hobie cats, kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling, floating mats

• Entertainment: Low-key live music several nights weekly

• Gym Access: Air-conditioned fitness center with modern equipment

• Kids Program: Nutmeg Pod children's activity center (3-12 years)

• Airport Transfers: Private luxury transfers included

Premium Add-ons and Costs

• Spa Services: Janissa's Spa treatments from $130

• Private Dining: Customized in-suite dining experiences from $150

• Excursions: Island tours from $85-250 per person

• Premium Wine Selection: Beyond included premium house wines ($60-400)

• Private Yoga/Tennis Sessions: $75 per hour

• Special Occasion Setups: Anniversary/birthday experiences from $150

• Full-Course Golf: Transfers to 18-hole course ($120 plus greens fees)

Hidden Mandatory Fees

• No resort fees

• Airport Transfers: Included private transfers

• Service Charge: All gratuities included

• Holiday Supplements: Christmas/New Year's dinner supplement ($150 per person)

• High Season Premium: Higher rates during prime season, but no additional fees

Gratuity Policies

• No Tipping Policy: Strictly enforced no-tipping policy

• Staff Training: Staff trained to politely decline tips if offered

• Service Philosophy: Genuine all-inclusive service without expectation of additional payment

• Holiday Fund: Optional contribution to staff holiday fund at checkout

Wi-Fi Access Details

• Coverage: Property-wide high-speed Wi-Fi

• Device Limit: Unlimited

• In-Room Technology: iPad in each suite with resort information

• Business Center: Complimentary printing and computer services

Water Sports Equipment Policies

• Equipment Usage: Unlimited use with no time restrictions

• Instruction: Basic instruction included for all non-motorized equipment

• Certification Requirements: None for non-motorized sports

• Hours of Operation: 8am-5pm

• Special Equipment: UV shirts and extra sun protection provided complimentary

Entertainment Access Restrictions

• Shows/Entertainment: Open seating, no reservations required

• Family Focus: Programming appropriate for all ages

• Seasonal Activities: Additional options during holiday periods

• Private Events: Can be arranged with advance notice (fees apply)

Room Service Limitations

• Hours: 7am-10:30pm

• Menu Scope: Complete restaurant menus available

• Delivery Fee: No additional charge

• Special Dietary Needs: Fully accommodated with advance notice

• Private Chefs: Available for in-suite cooking for special occasions (fee applies)

Minibar Restocking Policies

• Frequency: Restocked twice daily

• Included Items: Premium spirits, wines, champagne, craft beers, soft drinks, snacks

• Personalization: Pre-arrival preference form allows customized stocking

• Special Requests: Accommodated within 24 hours at no extra charge

Reservation Requirements for Facilities

• Restaurants: No reservations required

• Tennis Courts: Reservations recommended

• Spa Services: 24-hour advance booking recommended

• Golf: 48-hour notice for tee times

• Water Sports Equipment: No reservations needed

Key Differences Worth Noting

• Excellence Playa Mujeres offers luxury through abundance (many restaurants, bars, and activities.

• Jade Mountain emphasizes exclusivity and privacy (limited rooms, dedicated staff)

• Spice Island focuses on refinement with fewer but higher-quality offerings

Gratuity Policies Vary Dramatically:

• Excellence: Tips technically included but practically expected

• Jade Mountain: Service charge plus additional tipping customary

• Spice Island: Strictly enforced no-tipping policy (rare in Caribbean)

True All-Inclusive Comprehensiveness:

• Spice Island stands out with virtually no exclusions

• Excellence creates a two-tier experience with Excellence Club

• Jade Mountain includes surprising premium elements (chocolate lab, sailing)

Wi-Fi and Technology Approaches:

• Excellence: Full connectivity everywhere

• Jade Mountain: Intentional "digital detox" philosophy

• Spice Island: Balance of connectivity with dedicated in-room tech

Transparency Around "Hidden" Costs:

• All three have holiday supplements or gala dinner charges

• Airport transfer inclusion varies in quality (shared vs. private)

• Wine and premium alcohol policies differ significantly

The difference between an exceptional Caribbean vacation and a disappointing one often comes down to expectations. When you know exactly what you're paying for—and what you're not—you can make informed choices that align with your priorities and budget.

Remember: the resort with the lowest advertised rate isn't always the best value. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront for a truly comprehensive package saves both money and frustration in the long run.

Before you book your next all-inclusive getaway, take a moment to look beyond the glossy photos and marketing promises. Ask specific questions, read the fine print, and use the information we've provided to ensure you're getting the experience you deserve.

Your Caribbean vacation is too important—and too expensive—to leave to chance. Arm yourself with transparency, and you'll be sipping that beachside cocktail with the peace of mind that comes from knowing exactly what it costs.