experts ASK THE Susan Greenhorn


product and commercial manager for Arabia and Indian Ocean, If Only “I would always choose all-inclusive when planning my own holiday, because it offers such great value for money. It makes it easier to plan your travels in advance and work out a clear budget as virtually everything is paid for before you arrive.”


Harry Kyrillou director, Planet Holidays


“All-inclusives have evolved over the years, especially in Greece, where the idea of endless


buffets has been replaced by a huge choice of restaurants and entertainment that are varied and exciting. We recommend the Lux Me all-inclusives in the Grecotel stable, which offer a


great range of additional extras including a 24-hour concierge service via an app.”


Karl Thompson director, Unique Caribbean Holidays, UK operator for Sandals “Many of our agent partners find couples and families are looking for more than the usual fly-and-flop holiday, where they spend seven or 14 nights in the same resort. We have seen twin-centre itineraries take off over the last few years as they


offer clients the chance to have the best of both worlds and


experience several destinations in one trip. I expect this trend will continue post-lockdown as clients look to use their time overseas more effectively.”


Mauritius has added vegan and vegetarian restaurant Natura to its roster, while local fare is a priority for Barbadian brand Elegant Hotels, which owns Tamarind, Crystal Cove and Waves. Alex Fiz, vice-president and managing director of all-inclusive at Elegant Hotels owner Marriott International, says: “We believe guests should experience local cuisine and, in this case, showcase the abundance of fresh produce Barbados has to offer. Elegant Hotels hosts a culinary event programme, including market tours, tasting dinners and beach barbecues to celebrate Bajan cuisine.”


WILL BARS BE STOCKED WITH INFERIOR LOCAL BRANDS? You might not always know whether a hotel will have your client’s preferred gin or whisky in every bar – although Sandals goes so far as to name the brands it offers, from Johnnie Walker Black Label and Absolut to Tanqueray and Bombay Sapphire – but you can reassure them that many higher-end resorts guarantee to serve premium- brand spirits and even free-flowing bubbly at breakfast, so clients won’t be disappointed with the quality. Susan Greenhorn, If Only product and commercial manager for Arabia and the Indian Ocean, says: “Staying all-inclusive is a more affordable way to ensure you’re getting VIP treatment throughout your trip, with personalised service and bespoke luxury touches


22 14 MAY 2020


typically included within the initial cost. “This is especially true when you’re visiting the Indian


Ocean. For example, at Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, guests can enjoy champagne by the glass, a daily- refreshed minibar and gourmet dining at all eateries via the deluxe all-inclusive plan. With all this up for grabs, it’s clear all-inclusive is by no means a low-quality option.”


WILL THERE BE ANYTHING TO DO EXCEPT EAT AND DRINK? While food and drink are an important part of what clients are paying for, the inclusions don’t stop there, with access to sports on land, on water and even under the surface – all worth highlighting for those who want to work off a few of those all-inclusive dinners. At Tui hotel Riu Tequila in Mexico, watersports include volleyball, kayaking and a Padi-certified diving school. Sandals also includes diving for Padi-qualified guests and free green fees on its golf courses. Where they are available, kids’ clubs often form part of the all-inclusive package too, with inventive activities such as the ‘how to be a popstar’ sessions and DJ mixing lessons at Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife. Of course, filling your day doesn’t have to mean being active. Aldemar Resorts’ Elements All In package – which has accounted for two-thirds of UK bookings since it was introduced at Aldemar Royal Mare in Crete


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