All Inclusive or Pay as you Go?

Start your vacation planning by considering these two questions about your chosen resort and destination: Do you want to strap on your fanny pack and explore the sights and sounds of the nearby town? Or do you want to kick back on a pool chair, where your hardest decision is strawberry or lime margarita?

Depending on your answer, you are looking for either an Al (all-inclusive) or EP (European Plan) resort categorization.

All inclusive is just as it sounds; you can go ahead and leave your wallet in the room. Everything is paid for before you step on the plane, leaving you free to drink and eat to your stomach’s content. It’s the perfect choice for those looking to build a tan or burn through their beach book list.

The European Plan allows you to flexibly explore off resort, ideal for unearthing authentic food and culture spots. If you are looking to embrace and indulge in the local traditions of your destination, look for the EP designation when booking.

Adults Only or Family Friendly?

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a postcard-perfect family trip, we’ve got you covered. Adults only resorts – where guests must be at least 18 years old — work wonderfully for honeymoons, anniversaries or just leaving the kids with grandma and grandpa.

But if you are bringing along the whole family, the other option is called family friendly for a reason. The resorts will have activities available for kids — like arts and crafts or water activities — and will often have services that assist with watching your children, giving you some free time to indulge your vacation whims.

Activities or Quiet?

Now that you’ve chosen the type of resort, you can filter it further by which activities appeal to you. Want a spa day (or two or three or four)? Looking to get on the greens for 18 holes? Want a Kids Club for your children? Whatever you’re looking for, we will find it for you.

And before you book, consider a resort credit to maximize your leisure time. Most resort credit allows for free activities — the only thing better than a spa day, is a free spa day — while opening up a whole world of tours, luxury and adventure.

Must Have Indulgences?

Finally — look for your “wow” moment at each resort. Want to immerse in exotic food? The Hyatt Ziva Cancun has a phenomenal food selection for all ages with 16 restaurants and bars on site. Want to float away an afternoon on a lazy river? IBEROSTAR Paraiso and Royalton Blue Waters will have you drifting in leisure. Looking for a break from the beach for a day? The Palladium Vallarta has beautiful flora on-site with a winding walking trail through jungle-like gardens.