Friday's Five

Okay, so it isn't quite Friday yet but it's close enough. Since so many people ask, we'll answer the question: "Why go all-inclusive? I've heard those resorts are a rip-off."

Top 5 Reasons to Go All-Inclusive

1. All inclusive vacations reduce hassles.

Whether it's a land vacation or a cruise, all-inclusives are designed to maximize your vacation time and minimize the hassle of trip planning. Resorts and cruise lines take the guesswork out of what you're going to do when you get there. Their aim is to give you everything you could possible want on a vacation, from excursions and activities for the children to meals and enterainment throughout the day.

2. All inclusive vacations help you stick to a budget.

With children it's easy to break a budget when you're traveling. Someone's always thirsty, hungry or just plain bored. All inclusives ensure that you don't have to keep pulling out your wallet for a five dollar fruit punch or a ten dollar hamburger. While every resort and cruise line is different, the one commonality is the peace you'll have in knowing that the basics are covered long before you get there -- your meals, activities, and the entertainment you choose.

3. All-inclusives are one-stop shopping.

Decide on where you want to go and it's all downhill from there. Trying to piece together an itinerary is a hassle beyond belief.

4. All-inclusives can be less expensive than you think.

Tour providers like Apple and Gogo have an endless stream of seasonal specials year round, often with non-stop charter flights direct to your location. Charter flights are invested in your satisfaction. Air Jamaica is well known throughout the Carribean for their customer service and those tasty glasses of in-flight champagne !

5. All-inclusives remember you long after you're gone.

Not only do cruise lines want you to enjoy yourself, they want you to come back. After your first cruise you'll have a hard time keeping up with the offers that will come your way. Discounts abound for repeat cruisers -- from free upgrades to on board ship credits to reduced airfare, these floating resorts value your business and reward your return.

Tune in next week for Friday's Five.