All-inclusive packages are enjoying continued popularity in both short and long-haul destinations.
However, established resorts such as those in the Caribbean are now placing emphasis on the hotels themselves and their continual improvements, rather than what is included in the package. A meal and drinks package with the odd sport thrown in is no longer acceptable to customers.
But there are fresh destinations joining the fray, as holidaymakers to such diverse places as the Indian Ocean, Africa and the Middle East demand the choice of an all-inclusive option.
Operators report all-inclusive properties in the Maldives, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Goa and to a lesser extent Mauritius, are often their best sellers. It has almost become fashionable to book an all-inclusive in an expensive destination such as the Maldives or Mauritius.
Tradewinds deputy managing director Robbie Orr said: “An all-inclusive package is now perceived to be better value than a traditional hotel package.
“The all-inclusive concept is certainly here to stay.”