Traveling Our Purdy World

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If you are looking to getaway from all the Hussle-and-bustle of everyday life – deciding between a cruise or an all-inclusive resort can be cumbersome because frankly, its hard to know which one provides the better deal! While the answer is not cut-and-dry and not an once-size-fits-all, I am going to try to explain them both so you can decide which works best for you!

Similarities:

While cruise ships and all-inclusive vacations are very different, they do have a few similarities to include:

• You choose the length. If you can only get away for 3 days, usually you can find a cruise or resort that can accommodate a short vacation.
• Food is included complimentary. Both options usually have many food options.
• Entertainment is included complimentary. While what each offers vary, both provide free entertainment.
• The general rule is if you are going out of the country, you will need a passport.

Differences:

As said earlier cruise ships and all-inclusive vacations are very different. While they have their faire-share of differences, understanding your wants and needs can greatly help you decide which option is best for your vacation.

1. Destinations. While this may seem self-explanatory, I will explain anyway! When you are cruising, you are usually getting to experience many cities and towns (Aruba, Bonaire, Jamaica, Bahamas, etc.) If you flight to an all-inclusive resort, you are only getting to experience one location. This is not always bad as if you know you love Aruba, you can just fly straight there and know that you will love your vacation. If you are on a cruise ship, you are at the mercy of where the cruise ship takes you.
2. Fly vs. Drive. Cruises are usually closer to home. You can usually drive or jump on a quick flight to your destination. Many all-inclusive resorts are located outside of the country, so it is mandatory that you take a long flight.
3. Weather. Bad weather (hurricanes, rain, wind, etc.) do not make for a great vacation. If you have a week-long stay at an all-inclusive resort, you can’t really get away from the bad weather. However; if you are booked on a cruise, the cruise ship can alter the itinerary and change the route to get out of the bad weather.
4. Amenities. While both cruise ships and all-inclusive vacations have great amenities. The cruise ships probably have more amenities then on land. New cruise ships have mini-golf, rope courses, water parks, bumper cars, movie theaters, and even roller coasters! Chances are, the all-inclusive resort will focus their amenities on water activities (paddle boarding, jet skiing, snorkeling, etc.).
5. Fees. All-inclusive resorts are generally all-inclusive, meaning everything is included (alcohol, entertainment, food, beverages, alcohol, etc.) Cruises are not all-inclusive as sodas, specialty restaurants, gratuities, excursions, spa days, fitness classes, etc. all have an additional cost.
6. Alcohol. With cruising, you can choose to pay for alcoholic beverages if you want to indulge. If you do not want to drink, you do not have to. Whereas, at all-inclusive resorts alcoholic beverages are included. You are paying for this even if you do not drink alcohol.
7. Space. Resorts and cruises are very different space-wise. Resorts are usually on several acres which means you have more space of your own. Guest rooms are also usually bigger at resorts. As cruise ships are set on size, each guest only has a small amount of space. The guest rooms are usually small, you may have to share a table for dinner, you will probably have to sit in a lounge chair around the pool right beside a stranger, etc.
8. Luggage. While both cruises and all-inclusive vacations allow you to bring luggage, the airlines will not! Airlines allow only a certain number of bags and only allow you to bring certain items with you. If you drive to a cruise port, you will not have this problem like you would flying to an all-inclusive resort. Check out Travel Gear for our top cruise necessities!
9. Motion-sickness. Again, another self-explanatory item! If you do not like feeling the motion of the ocean, maybe a cruise vacation is not best for you. If you go to an all-inclusive island, you will not feel a ship moving, be affected by rough seas, and/or experience motion-sickness.

What is the Verdict?

While I said earlier, deciding to go on a cruise or go to an all-inclusive resort is purely based on your own preferences, what you like to do, your priorities, and your spending habits. I can almost guarantee that either option you choose will be a great option! Whether going with your partner, friends, family, or by yourself – you will have a great time because remember; life is too short, and making memories and experiences are life’s greatest treasures!

Whatever you Choose, Happy Vacationing! xoxo Megan & Sean