North Americans love the comforts of an all-inclusive vacation, and for most families, this generally means a getaway to a beach resort in the Caribbean or Mexico.
Below are several ways families can take a trip to Europe and also enjoy the benefits of an all-inclusive vacation.
Spas
Europe offers many beach opportunities, with the Mediterranean being the most popular area. The Mediterranean also offers a longer holiday season than the Atlantic coast.
Families can find all-inclusive beach resorts in countries like Greece, Spain, and Portugal, and if the property caters to British tourists, there should be no problem for those who only speak English. Check out popular British vacation packages like Thomson Holidays for all-inclusive vacations. Keep in mind that these all-inclusive hotels and resorts are unlikely to have the vast grounds and multiple amenities found at some properties in Mexico and the Caribbean.
All Inclusive Club Med Vacations
Families can also find Club Med all-inclusive resorts in France and several other European countries. The Club Med brand is known for its great programs for kids and its unique atmosphere thanks to GO’s. Travelers accustomed to large Club Med resorts in Mexico and the Dominican Republic should read visitor reviews and not expect all staff to speak English.
For an unusual winter getaway idea, how about an all-inclusive vacation at a Club Med resort in the Alps?
Mediterranean Cruises
Cruises are a type of “almost all-inclusive vacation.” Our About.com Cruise Guide notes that cruise lines today frequently charge for things that used to be free, like bottled water, but nonetheless: Traditional cruise services such as swimming pool and entertainment, so you can sail and only have to pay tips and drinks if you want.
Make an extra budget for refreshments and shore excursions, especially if you want to book shore excursions through your cruise ship.
(For those with an eye on the budget, feel free to explore a port of call on your own.)
For families taking one of Disney Cruise Line’s Mediterranean voyages: If you have a baby, you will have to pay more for Flounder’s Nursery. In the meantime, the other great Disney Cruise Line programs for kids and teens will be part of your all-inclusive vacation.
Family adventures
“ Family adventures” are an attractive niche in the world of family travel: Guided tours take parents and children on trips where all the details are handled, there are no hassles or lines, and the itinerary is the best. These trips are “almost all-inclusive vacations,” where the price covers most meals, all accommodations, all museum tickets, and so on. Several companies offer family adventures in Europe, including Adventures by Disney.
Winter ski breaks
As noted above, Club Med has several all-inclusive vacation destinations in the Alps, where one price includes accommodation, meals, ski and snowboard instruction, children’s programs, entertainment, etc.
