Don't Sleep On The 12 Best All-Inclusive Resorts!

Mallory Dana Levy
Apr 11, 2024
best all-inclusive resorts in 2024

There's nothing more enjoyable than a vacation planned with your specific interests in mind. As someone with an endless sense of wanderlust, I love a unique travel experience or an off-the-grid adventure. I've climbed Machu Picchu and slept beneath the stars in a Middle Eastern desert and ridden Icelandic ponies through lava fields, and I'd do it all again! However, more often than not I return from PTO more exhausted than when I first departed.

Any adventurer worth their salt is all too familiar with this dilemma. You take time off for a relaxing vacation, but there are just so many exciting things to see out there in this big, beautiful world, and you end up using your remaining energy to go experience all the things, instead of taking the much-needed rest you deserve.

Enter: the all-inclusive resort. Once upon a time, I scoffed at these destinations — why would I want to be at a big hotel when I could have an *authentic* experience elsewhere? But upon further research, I've discovered that the all-inclusive resorts of yesteryear have come a pretty long way. Gone are the big box hotels devoid of character (they still exist, of course, but not in quite the same way) and culture-infused, 360 degree experiences for travelers of all budgets and interests have arrived in their place.

Here are the best all-inclusive resorts you should add to your travel list this year.

Are all-inclusive resorts worth it?

Image via Bungalows Key Largo

Yes, all-inclusive resorts are worth it! Especially for travelers who want to relax and leave most of the logistical planning up to the resort. When staying at an all-inclusive resort, all food, drinks, and on-site activities are typically already paid for, so you can go about your day without worrying about the price tag.

Where do they have the best all-inclusive resorts?

Image via O2 Beach Club Resort & Spa

While all-inclusive resorts are traditionally found in the Caribbean, today there are incredible 5-star all-inclusive hotels all over the world! We've seen great all-inclusive resorts in South America, Africa, and Asia — as well as the classics in Mexico and the Caribbean islands.

Does US have all-inclusive resorts?

Image via Mohonk Mountain House

Yes! There are dozens of all-inclusive resorts across every US state. Some of the best all-inclusive resorts in the United States are in Florida, the Southwest (Arizona and Utah), and the Northwest (Montana and Wyoming).

All-Inclusive Resorts in the United States

Miraval in Tucson, Arizona

If your passport has expired or you would simply prefer to stay (relatively) local, consider a domestic all-inclusive experience. While Miraval operates two other resorts in Austin and the Berkshires, we love their original location, which is set in the majestic desert of the Santa Catalina Mountain. You have the option to keep busy with a variety of daily workshops, classes, lectures, and wellness activities, or simply enjoy the resort's 400+ acres of majestic desert and mountain views.

Bungalows in Key Largo, Florida

The Florida Keys are the closest you can get to the Carribean water without the hassle of going through customs. Of all the locales, Key Largo is the most convenient and best for snorkeling. Bungalows is our recommendation for a luxurious experience, with options for a private waterfront, soaking tub, or outdoor garden shower. Despite being only 90 minutes from Miami, being at this resort truly feels like another world.

Red Mountain Resort in Ivins, Utah

When it comes to Utah, nature girls™ already have a running list of bucket list places to see, like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon. Logistically, it makes sense to pick a hotel nearby, and nothing sounds better than a wellness-focused resort with luxe amenities after a long day of hiking. Red Mountain Resort is surrounded by the region's iconic red rock bluffs and offers kayaking, paddle boarding, guided morning hikes, meditation classes and a yoga studio.

Image via Mohonk Mountain House

Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, New York

Fans of The Marvelous Mrs Maisel know that long before the Hamptons, the Catskills in upstate New York were *the* place to "summer." And, while the region is still a total vibe in the warmer months, there's actually a whole host of fun activities to enjoy all year round, including hiking, horseback riding, and canoeing (and that's just on Mohonk Mountain House's property!). Come for the untouched wilderness (ahem, 40,000 square acre forest) and stay for the ultra-aesthetic Victorian castle vibes.

Carribean & Central America All-Inclusive Resorts

Jade Mountain Resort in St. Lucia

It's not possible to mention St. Lucia without instantly thinking of the iconic Jade Mountain Resort, so we figured this was a pretty great place to start. Nestled atop a lush tropical mountain, this stunning hotel features a full view of the beaches and rainforests that surround it -- thanks to the strategic absence of a fourth wall.

O2 Beach Club & Spa in Barbados

Barbados is home to Rihanna, Ross Geller's paleontology conference, and now a new hotel to watch: O2 Beach Club & Spa. It's a boutique hotel with all-inclusive perks (best of both worlds!) that's located on the dreamy south coast of Barbados. Come for the beach, but stay for the Hammam (aka Turkish bath) treatment - the only one of its kind in Barbados!

Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort in Dominica

Located on the oft-overlooked and underrated island of Dominica, Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort is a new breed of all-inclusives. Their mission is to encourage guests to get off the property so they can experience the island’s many highlights, from hiking and snorkeling to walking tours and visits to local eateries. It's also one of the region's top dive resorts!

Marquis Los Cabos in Baja California, Mexico

When it comes to Mexico, Cancun is to our 20s what Los Cabos is to our 30s. It's the luxe, tranquil escape where the desert mountains meet the Sea of Cortez. This elevated all-inclusive offers sushi and an extensive ceviche menu, as well as a holistic spa that includes one-of-a-kind treatments using crushed diamonds!

Coco Plum in Belize

Intrigued by the Great Barrier Reef, but less enthused about a 17+ hour journey to Australia? Belize is the answer. This picturesque island nation has all the beauty and convenience of the Caribbean, while giving travelers plenty of unique experiences. Coco Plum is our choice for a long weekend in Belize - this adult-only, private island resort will make you feel completely off-the-grid, while centrally located to fun activities and day trips to the country's own barrier reef.

International All-Inclusive Resorts

Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion in Peru

If you've ever dreamt of sleeping in a treehouse or visiting the Amazon rain forest, look no further. Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion is a true off-the-grid experience adjacent to the Amazon River. Canoe and make your own chocolate during the day, and take a night walk in the surrounding rain forest and unwind in the new full-service spa in the evening. The best part? Traditional Peruvian breakfast, lunch and dinner with locally-sourced ingredients. IYKYK.

Soneva Kiri in Thailand

Thailand may be an extremely long plane flight away, but once you arrive, the crystal clear water more than makes up for the journey. Award-winning hotel chain Soneva has multiple locations throughout Southeast Asia, but their Kiri location in Thailand is a standout. It's located on Koh Kood, widely regarded as the prettiest island in Thailand, and features 36 beachfront villas, each with their own infinity pool.

Mahali Mzuri in Kenya

For the traveler who wants to get Out There, there's nothing better than staying right in the center of the action. This action, of course, being Maasai Mara and the path of the Great Migration, one of Kenya’s most incredible safari sights. Travelers will have access to twice-daily game drives and a front row seat to the Big Five.

Sign up for our newsletter for more travel inspiration and let us know which all-inclusive resort you're eyeing in the comments 👀.

Header image via Jade Mountain Resort

This post has been updated.

How To Avoid Stomach Problems While Traveling (Yes, Really)

Stomach problems are never fun, but they seem to be even less so when you're in the middle of a travel day. Ironically, that's also when they tend to flare up! We're all swapping spring break for summer vacation soon, which is why I talked to digestive health dietitian Alyssa Simpson RDN, CGN, CLT and The Points Guy travel experts Ellie Nan Storckand Caroline Tanner for all the secrets, insights, and hacks that will make your travel smoother (and less painful) than ever.

Why do I always have stomach issues when traveling?

Image via Jason Toevs/Pexels

Routine can benefit our mental health, but it also benefits our physical health, too! "Stomach problems tend to flare up while traveling because our usual routines, like mealtimes and sleep patterns, get thrown off, which can disrupt digestion," Simpson says. "Plus, not drinking enough water and trying new foods or eating at odd hours can make matters worse by dehydrating us and upsetting our stomachs.

"Travel anxiety significantly affects our stomachs," she continues. "When we're anxious, our bodies release stress hormones that can disrupt digestion, potentially worsening existing gastrointestinal problems or causing new ones."

And it turns out, flying itself can also affect your gut physically. "Flying or changes in altitude can make your stomach uncomfortable by making the gas in your intestines expand, causing bloating," Simpson says. "Also, the difference in cabin pressure and oxygen levels can dehydrate you, which might worsen digestion and existing stomach problems."

How do you fix travelers stomach?

Image via RDNE Stock project/Pexels

While travel day stomach problems can take you by surprise, there are a few you can do in the moment to help ease discomfort. "As a traveler with a colon disease and dietary restrictions, I always have Tylenol and digestive enzymes on hand," Tanner says. "Whenever I arrive at my destination, I try to locate the nearest juice/smoothie place to maintain the daily habits that make me feel my best at home."

"I usually bring Dramamine with me just in case I experience a rare bout of nausea, and I've recently been taking 1 teaspoon of digestive bitters before meals to help with heartburn (cute, right?) — they come in really small bottles so they're generally fine to go through security," Storck says. "The day before a long flight, I try to eat whole non-processed foods — nothing that could upset my stomach — and lots of water. I try not to drink on the plane if my stomach feels sensitive (otherwise, a glass of red helps me sleep!)"

You'll also want to be aware of dehydration on your travel day (dehydration makes everything feel worse), and that includes what kind of water you're drinking. "For those with sensitive stomachs, it's a good idea to go for bottled or filtered water while traveling because tap water safety can differ from place to place," Simpson says. "Opting for bottled water helps lower the chance of drinking contaminated water and reduces the risk of health problems."

"It's smart to be careful when sampling new foods while traveling to prevent stomach issues," Simpson continues. "Stick to dishes you're familiar with and that are fully-cooked, and avoid street food in places where cleanliness might be a concern. Also, keep an eye out for any potential allergens or foods that might not agree with you."

How to make travel easier?

Image via Brit + Co

Your travel day should actually start before you wake up. Just like meal prepping can set you up for an easy week of eats, travel prepping can ensure your day-of journey goes as smooth as possible. While you can't control flight delays or traffic, there are a few things you can add into your routine.

"Include stress-relief techniques in your plan and feel reassured that you have strategies in place to prevent travel-related anxiety from causing stomach issues," Simpson says. Try our Best Breathing Techniques and Daily Journal Prompts when you have a moment to spare!

"I definitely pack the day before and try to make my carry-on bag really organized (for example, I put all my chargers in a small pouch so that there aren't wires getting tangled, I pack snacks so that I don't have to spend a ton of money at the airport, etc.)," Storck says. "I also download shows or movies on to my iPad beforehand (or pack a good book) — I like having something to look forward to if it's a long flight! Simple things, but they help the day go smoothly."

"I try to plan in advance as much as possible to alleviate travel prep and travel day stress [and] I make a list of items I want to pack on my phone," Tanner says. In addition to packing plenty of snacks that are easy on her stomach, she also figures out what to eat when she gets to her location. "Depending on my flight time, I will pick up a Sweetgreen salad to eat on the plane to keep me satiated and full of greens until I can find my next whole foods meal."

Should I pack anything specific to avoid stomach problems?

Image via Brit + Co

It's a good idea to have natural remedies or over the counter medicine in the event you need to ease bloating or discomfort (think antidiarrheals, laxatives, or antacids). "Bring along essentials like enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules or activated charcoal tablets for bloating and discomfort, antacids for heartburn and acid reflux, and magnesium citrate or magnesium oxide supplements if you're prone to constipation," Simpson says.

"You might also want to pack dandelion or fennel tea for digestive support and hydration tablets or powders to prevent dehydration, especially in hot climates," she continues. "Just remember to check in with a healthcare professional before trying any new remedies, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications."

And to make the travel in and of itself more enjoyable, Storck has a few travel must-haves: "Headphones, comfortable clothing (big fan of black leggings, sneakers and a sweater; I'll never be a fancy plane outfit girl) and my water bottle." Tanner's must-haves include a portable phone charger, headphones, eye patches, and sunscreen.

How to eat in moderation on vacation?

Image via Diana Titenko/Pexels

We're big fans of Little Treat Culture at Brit + Co, especially if you're somewhere you've never been before. I mean, how could you visit Paris and NOT buy pastries?! Even if you have a sensitive stomach, Simpson says it's okay to indulge — as long as it's in moderation.

"Indulge in local delicacies moderately, savoring each bite and paying attention to your body's hunger and fullness signals," Simpson recommends. "Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your meals to offset any extra calories from treats and to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Also, incorporate physical activities into your plans to burn off any additional calories consumed from indulgences."

"To avoid stomach issues while traveling, steer clear of spicy, fatty, and greasy foods," Simpson continues. "Additionally, limit alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks, and ensure fruits and vegetables are thoroughly washed to prevent food-related illnesses. Lastly, maintain regular meal times to prevent overeating and refrain from skipping meals."

If you do deal with the dreaded traveler's stomach (it happens to us all!) swap your fancy meals for a few tried-and-true foods. "If you're dealing with stomach issues while traveling, stick to gentle foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast to soothe discomfort, and steer clear of foods that might worsen your symptoms," Simpson says. "Keep yourself hydrated, take time to rest and recuperate, and try relaxation methods like deep breathing or meditation to ease stress-related digestive problems. If your symptoms persist or become severe, don't hesitate to seek medical help."

Make sure to check with your healthcare professionals before trying new medication or making a major lifestyle change. Let us know your best hack for stomach problems in the comments and check out our weekend newsletter for more health tips and expert advice!

Lead image viaDiana Titenko/Pexels

wellnesstravelhealth

Chad Michael Murray Says He Wants "A Cinderella Story 2" Too

A Cinderella Story isn't just a movie — it's honestly a cultural moment. The costume montage, the spastic colons and synchronized swimming, the rain in this drought... even Gavin Degraw singing over the One Tree Hilltrailer on the DVD stand out! Everything about this film is iconically ingrained in our collective conscious, making Hilary Duff and Chad Michael Murray the Y2k blueprint for many of the "It" pairings we know and love today.

We last left our Princeton royalty preparing for their freshman year of college, dreaming of happily-ever-after — or at least graduation — and that was that! But in this era of reboots, I've often wondered what happened to our OG tortured poets after the credits rolled. Luckily, I'm not the only one! Chad Michael Murray just tee'd up a sequel, and yes that's me you hear squealing right now. Here's everything we know about what's to come for everyone's fave modern fairytale!

Is there a part two to a Cinderella story?

Photo via Warner Bros Entertainment Inc

There's Another Cinderella Story, starring Selena Gomez and Drew Seeley, but that's more so a part of a series of "Cinderella stories" rather than an actual sequel. So far, we haven't gotten a follow-up on our Princeton-bound faves.

Has "A Cinderella Story 2" been announced?

There's been no formal announcement yet, but that doesn't mean all hope is lost. During his press tour for Mother of the Bride, Chad Michael Murray told ETthat he's definitely interested in bringing Austin Ames back. He said that even his daughter told him, "You need to make another one of these, Daddy," after she watched A Cinderella Story for the first time.

His response to the idea? "Here you go, Hil. From me to you, let's do it!" — referring to Hilary Duff, of course! The timing couldn't be better either, given that Hilary just gave birth to her fourth child and could hypothetically be available to film in the coming months...just saying!

Again, there's no official information about this project yet, but with a main piece of the puzzle on board, we're one step closer to my own personal happily-ever-after — a real sequel to A Cinderella Story once and for all.

Wanna stay in-the-know about all things pop culture? Follow us on Facebook for more!

Header image via Warner Bros Entertainment Inc.

entertainmentpop culturechad michael murrayhilary duffMovies

Step Into Bridgerton This Weekend (Literally) With A Brand New Event

The Bridgerton world tour might give you the chance to see your favorite stars like Nicola Coughlan, Luke Newton, and Luke Thompson IRL, but a brand new event for season 3 will give you the chance to actually step into the show! The Bridgerton season 3 promenade is popping up in New York City on May 11 and it's giving fans the chance to see Regency England like never before — and potentially score tickets to the world premiere on May 13 (which is also Bridgerton's first US premiere!). Grab your cottagecore corset tops, your farmer's market baskets, and comfy shoes because this is an experience you won't want to miss.

Image via Netflix

Indulge in the Bridgerton Promenade from 11 AM to 6 PM on May 11 at the Gansevoort Plaza, which is right near the Chelsea Market and Whitney Museum of Art. The best part is that you don't need to reserve tickets because it's open to the public! But that also means it's first-come, first-serve, so you'll want to take crowds and lines into consideration.

The activation itself will give fans the chance to disappear into the market the our favorite BFFs Penelope Featherington and Eloise Bridgerton love to explore. According to the official TUDUM announcement, the Bridgerton Promenade will feature "a gorgeous floral bouquet, take photos, sample various Bridgerton-inspired treats, and enjoy musical merriments." You'll also be able to sign up to potentially win tickets to the World Premiere!

Everything You'll See At The Bridgerton Promenade

Image via Netflix

  • Love Letters of the Ton: The Knot stationery gives you the chance to write your very own love letter (or scandalous gossip à la Lady Whistledown).
  • Featherington Flowers: Craft your own small bouquet to take home!
  • The Diamond Vanity: Kiko Milano lets you see the perfect spring 2024 beauty products.
  • Society Portraits: Get your portrait painted...then frame it for your wall ;)
  • Photo Opportunities: Turn your Instagram into a Regency Wonderland with a bunch of photo opps (including one from Bath and Body Works!)
  • Regency Patisserie: Ladurée offers macarons you won't be able to stop thinking about.
  • Mayfair Coffee Delights:International Delight gives you the chance to sip some delightful coffee.
  • Her Majesty’s Jewellers: Update your charm bracelet with a bauble from Queen Charlotte!
  • Bridgerton Boutique: Outfit your spring wardrobe with bags, fans, and other accessories you'll love.

Will you be headed to the Bridgerton Promenade this weekend? Tag us on Instagram with your best Regency pics and check out the latest news on Bridgerton season 4!

Lead image via Netflix

tventertainmenttravelpop culture

21 Memorial Day Sales You Need To Shop For Insane Savings

Memorial Day weekend is nigh, and in the midst of planning your epic BBQ spread and a slew of themed cocktails, it's also time to start noting the Memorial Day sales you'll be shopping for a much-needed summer refresh. We've got the scoop on savings in just about every category – from beauty to home decor to fashion – so you know exactly when and where to save big.

Scroll on for the Memorial Day sales we're most excited about for 2024, and make sure to come back here for additional sale info!

Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum

Target

What: Items up to 60% off

When: May 24-27

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer

Amazon

What: Deals on everything from home goods to decor

When: Now through Memorial Day

Mila Mirror

Anthropologie Home

What: Savings on home goods

When: May 21-27

Peony Vase Thank You Card Set

Papier

What: 15% off stationery & photo books

When: May 22-29

Sherpa Deluxe Black Guarenteed On Board Soft Sided Dog & Cat Carrier

Petco

What: BOGO 50% off select summer products and 20% off select sherpa carriersWhen: May 24-27

Dallas IV Hat

Hood

What: 25% off sitewide with code USA25

When: May 23-27

CZ Crescent with Stars Necklace

Sterling Forever

What: 20% off sitewide with code SUMMER20

When: May 24-28

Stemless Wine Chiller Pair

VoChill

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 17-27

The Coated Pan

Material Kitchen

What: 20% off (*promo excludes bundles and collaborations)

When: May 23-27

EOS Classic Organic Mattress

Naturepedic

What: 20% off sitewide with code MEMORIAL20

When: May 15-29

Pierrette Dress

SAYLOR

What: Extra 15% off sale styles with code MDAY24

When: May 27

Sea Green Pleated Tennis Skirt

Gold Hinge

What: 25% off sitewide with code MDAY25

When: May 23-27

Calista FAUXblo Thermal Blowout Brush

Calista

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 24

CAROL Bike

CAROL Bike

What: Take $200 off sitewide on all CAROL bikes

When: May 24-30

Cartolina Louise Cover-Up

Cartolina

What: 30% off sitewide

When: May 22-28

Carve Designs Zella Mesh Pullover

Carve Designs

What: BOGO red, white, and blue swim; buy 1 swimsuit, get one swimsuit 50% off

When: May 23-27

Essentia Stratami Organic Mattress

Essentia

What: 25% off sitewide, plus receive free GOTS Certified Organic Cotton Sheets with qualifying mattress purchases

When: May 13-31

Harper Wilde Bliss Scoop Bralette

Harper Wilde

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 24-27

MARLOWE. Soap Bar Discovery Gift Set

MARLOWE.

What: 20% off sitewide

When: May 27

Pura 4 Diffuser

Pura

What: 25% off sitewide through code only (subscriber early access: May 23-27), 25% off sitewide, plus subscribe to the Pura V4 and get a free car set

When: May 21-22

Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30

Vacation

What: 20% off sitewide, plus get a free boat keychain or pen on orders over $65 (while supplies last)

When: May 24-27

Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on these Memorial Day sales + all the best deals!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

salesmemorial daymemorial day salesshopping

Red, White, And Royal Blue Fans — We're Getting A Sequel!

Amazon's adaptation of Casey McQuiston’s famed Red, White & Royal Blueblew our minds with its perfectly extravagant and messy royal romance. Prince Henry and Alex Claremont-Diaz stole our hearts with their antics, proving that love isn't always as cookie cutter as we think it should be. Not only that, but it was the LGBT film we never knew we needed until it hit the big screen last year.

If you've been missing Prince Henry and Alex, you're in luck because a sequel to Red, White & Royal Blue is officially coming! Here's everything we know about the latest developments!

Is the main cast returning?

Image via Jonathan Prime/Prime Video

I'm happy to share that Nicholas Galitzine and Taylor Zakhar Perez are returning! I honestly don't think the Red, White & Royal Blue sequel would be the same if they weren't.

However, no other cast information has been released! Hopefully we'll see Uma Thurman and Clifton Collins, Jr. reprise their roles!

What's the sequel going to be about?

Image via Prime Video

As of yet, Variety reports that not much has been confirmed about the sequel's plot or release date. My guess is that there the two lovebirds will have to juggle new responsibilities and mishaps.

What the original plot of "Red, White & Royal Blue?"

Image via Prime Video

The novel centers around the character of Alex Claremont-Diaz, a first son of the United States, and his romantic relationship with Prince Henry, British royalty.

Take a walk down memory lane with these behind-the-scenes pictures 👀

www.instagram.com

Matthew López on Instagram: "“Yes, this is exactly how I always dreamed it would be. Locked in a cupboard with your elbow inside my rib cage.” #rwrbmovie"

www.instagram.com

Nicholas Galitzine on Instagram: "The bois 📸 @aneeshtheactress"

www.instagram.com

Matthew López on Instagram: "Spent the last two weeks rehearsing with @nicholasgalitzine and @taylorzakharperez It’s been a joy to watch Henry and Alex come to life in the room. Excited to make this movie with them. Here we go! #rwrbmovie @primevideo 📸: (the great Stephen Goldblatt)"

We cannot wait to see what new adventures are two lovebirds will cook up in Red, White & Royal Blue, but for now we’ll be rereading (and rereading) RWRB.

Stay updated on all the latest entertainment new with Brit + Co.

Header image courtesy of Amazon Prime Video.

This post has been updated.

booksfilmmoviesamazon primered white and royal blueentertainmentEntertainment