THE all-inclusive market, particularly in the Caribbean, is becoming increasingly competitive as clients demand more value for money.
Although the price of all-inclusive packages has gone up in line with inflation for the winter ’99/2000 and summer 2000 seasons, operators are coming under pressure to offer more added-value products and services.
Today, thanks mainly to a fierce rivalry between the two giants of the industry, Sandals Resorts and SuperClubs, the focus is on how much a resort operator can cram into the all-inclusive package, regardless of the price tag (see story below).
Dominican Republic-based group Allegro Hotels has put together a number of value packages aimed at different target markets. ‘Essentials’ offers those staying at the Jack Tar Village in Playa Dorada the ultimate all-inclusive deal – not only food, drinks, sports and entertainment, but also certain clothes items, shoes, cosmetics and toiletries. The package is featured by First Choice, priced at £1,185 for 14 nights.
Allegro also offers packages aimed at golfers and, of all things, cigar lovers, at several Dominican Republic resorts.
Couples Resorts in Jamaica, part of the Issa Resort Collection, has improved its all-inclusive package at its two properties in Ocho Rios and Negril by adding a choice of five excursions, including a visit to famous Dunn’s River Falls and a plantation tour.
A free flights offer allows guests to split their holiday -Êflying between the two resorts.
Sister property Sweptaway in Negril has added a range of treatments to its all-inclusive package following the opening of its new Spa Centre. The programme encompasses 11 services including body massages, facials and haircare.
Value-added items have been given priority at FDR Pebbles, Franklyn D Resort’s second property on Jamaica, which opens this winter.
Offering a soft adventure theme, for teenagers in particular, Pebbles’ all-inclusive package features free outdoor camping in a specially created site, field trips the Martha Brae river and learn-to-sail lessons.
In Barbados, the Elegant Hotels group, which has five hotels on the island (three of which are all-inclusive) has enhanced its all-inclusive package by offering guests complimentary use of golf facilities at the exclusive Royal Westmoreland Golf Club.
Guests staying five nights or more at all-inclusive Crystal Cove, Coconut Creek and the Turtle Beach Club also receive a free champagne breakfast on their balcony or patio on the morning of their choice. To encourage longer stays, Elegant has followed Couples’ route and is offering two free excursions for visitors who book a holiday of more than 15 nights.
Odyssey Resorts’ newest project in Antigua, the adult-only Xanadu Resort Antigua that opens in November, is focusing its efforts on extra service. Check-in registration formalities are now taken over drinks in the lounge. All rooms will also have an Internet connection as well as a TV, video and music centre.