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Although all-inclusive resorts are one of the Caribbean's own inventions, they are more popular in some regions than others. The Virgin Islands follow this same trend, and the availability of all-inclusive resorts varies from island to island.
Nearly all of the Virgin Islands' all-inclusive resorts are concentrated on the island of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. There are a few on St. John, and there may be some within the British Virgin Islands, but none of these other islands specialize in all-inclusives.
All-inclusive resorts offer guests just about everything they could want, from food and drink to activities. However, be aware of what exactly is covered in your all-inclusive plan, as some resorts do not offer everything one might expect. Higher-end amenities such as spa services often incur an additional charge. Ask the personnel at the front desk to find out exactly what is included in the flat rate.
One of the most popular aspects of an all-inclusive stay is the fact that most, if not all, of your expenses are included in one bill that you get to see upfront. This makes travel budgeting a breeze. Plus, paying a flat rate for accommodations and incidentals can often save you money as well.
Another popular aspect of all-inclusive resorts are the activities, from snorkeling and diving to exciting nightlife. Some travelers never have to leave the resort to experience everything they wanted to see in the Virgin Islands.
On the other hand, not everyone loves these resorts. There is some debate about the all-inclusive experience. While for some it seems like the perfect vacation - affordable and relaxing with everything you need right at your fingertips - others have a different opinion.
All-inclusives may be affordable and relaxing, but they do require guests to give up certain things. Some travelers bemoan the loss of freedom when staying at these resorts, not because guests are locked inside, but because staying there is so easy that travelers do not feel the need to explore the island on their own. To some, a vacation in the Caribbean just wouldn't be complete without exploration and cultural experiences.
Of course, this lack of freedom and exploration also leads to some complaints from local business owners, especially restaurateurs. They feel as though they lose out on important business from clientèle who do not leave the resorts.
The Resorts
Bolongo Bay Beach Resort
Bolongo Bay Beach Resort is one of the few resorts in St. Thomas that is located right on the beach. The all-inclusive package, with prices ranging from $175 to $350(USD) per night, includes food, beverages, and activities; and those who book for seven nights or more also get a cocktail cruise aboard the resort's catamaran, and a snorkeling trip. Bolongo Bay Beach offers a European dining plan, as well as wedding and honeymoon packages.
Caneel Bay Resort
The Caneel Bay Resort is surrounded by the Virgin Island's National Park on St. John. The environment is important to the resort, and takes care to make choices that will not affect its surroundings. The resort features 166 rooms decorated to reflect the natural surroundings, with court, garden, and ocean views. Guests have an option of three meal plans, and enjoy such complimentary services as non-motorized water sports, use of fitness center and pool, movie presentations, and garden walks. Prices begin at $475 and continue up to $1000(USD).
Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort and Casino
Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort and Casino was named one of the "Best Large Hotels" in the Caribbean in 2007 by Caribbean Travel & Life Magazine. The resort is located on a private stretch of beach in St. Croix, and offers 180 rooms. Amenities include a miniature golf course, three pools, three restaurants, two bars, non-motorized water sports, tennis courts, and fitness center. A casino and spa are available at additonal costs. Children under the age of 12 stay free.
Marriott Frenchmens Reef
Overlooking Amalie Harbor in St. Thomas, the Marriott Frenchmens Reef costs between $264 and $400(USD) a night. There are a wide variety of chieffectldren's activities available, including a tour of a butterfly garden, as well as tennis, volleyball, spa services, kayaking, and more. There are nine restaurants and bars on site, ensuring that guests never grow tired of the menu offerings.
Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort and Spa
The Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort and Spa is all about providing its guests with the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate. Along with a private stretch of beach, guests can enjoy three on-site pools, tennis and basketball courts, three restaurants, and spa services. Non-motorized water sports are also available. Rooms cost between $180 and $290(USD) per night.
As always, the choices you make on this vacation are entirely your own. If staying at an all-inclusive sounds like the perfect vacation for you and your wallet, then look closely at the resort options available in the Virgin Islands.
Hotels and resorts are some of the most popular accommodation options on the Virgin Islands.
Villas and other rental properties offer vacationers more flexibility and privacy than other accommodation options.
It's never a bad idea to learn more about fascinating customs and beautiful landscape of the Virgin Islands.
