| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 28/08/00 |
| Author: | Page Number: 65 |
| Copyright: Other |
All-inclusives
Major players put more focus on all-inclusives
All-inclusives represent an increasingly important part of tour operators’ programmes.Not only is demand rising, particularly on the long-haul side, but the product itself is evolving. Many major players are expanding all-inclusive capacity year on year by adding new properties and increasing allocation in existing ones.
“The popularity of all-inclusives is increasing. People like to know they can budget down to the last penny and work out the cost of a holiday. All-inclusives traditionally have great facilities and this means more time can be spent enjoying the holiday,” said one operator to Cyprus.
Besides families, the couples market is also extremely well catered for by the all-inclusive product, and some resorts cater exclusively to couples, with wedding package tie-ins. Operators are specific about what exactly is included within the all-inclusive price at each hotel, making it easy for agents to sell the product to clients.
The leading short-haul destinations include Majorca, Minorca, Spain, the Greek Islands, the Canary Islands, Tunisia, Israel and Turkey.
The Caribbean remains the leading long-haul destination with islands such as St Lucia and Jamaica boasting some of the most exclusive and well established resorts.
Newer, more affordable destinations include the Dominican Republic, Cuba and Cancun.
Operators often sell all-inclusives according to the customers interests, such as sport, rather than price or destination. Many suggest that knowing exactly what the client is looking for from the holiday will greatly facilitate the booking process.
Empty-nesters are the prime target for winter all-inclusives. “In winter older couples are attracted to these holidays as they love a set routine and the knowledge that all meals, the majority of drinks and some entertainment is provided,” said a spokesperson.
Cuba: an affordable destination
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