5 Hidden Secrets & 3 Exclusive "Modes" That Will Help You To Be Happy With Your All-Inclusive Vacation

Based on our 13+ years of experience in the Dominican Republic, where almost 98% of resorts and hotels are all-inclusive, we've decided to share our knowledge. This is to help our clients enjoy their vacation to the fullest at an all-inclusive resort and truly appreciate the wonderful Dominican Republic!

FIVE HIDDEN SECRETS

1. Recognize The Real Prices!All-inclusive resorts might seem expensive at first, but in the Dominican Republic, they are often a good deal. For example, in tourist areas, breakfast for two can cost around $50, lunch $80-$100, and dinner $100 or more. Non-alcoholic drinks average about $8 each, and alcoholic cocktails start at $15. A couple could spend around $230 just on meals in a day. Most all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic offer 24-hour dining and drinking options, making them more cost-effective, and ensuring you don't overpay.
2. Be Balanced!While it's natural to want to get your money's worth at an all-inclusive meal, overeating to the point of discomfort is not advisable. Listen to your body's limits and remember, you can always return for items you didn't try, like dessert. We regularly encounter medical cases due to overeating and excessive drinking.
3. Choose the Right Resort!In the Dominican Republic, we view each resort as a living organism with its own "personality". There's a wide range of resort concepts, and we generally categorize them by their unique characteristics: the liveliest party hotel, the sexiest hotel, the most relaxed hotel, the most elegant hotel, a laid-back Adults Only resort, an active Adults Only resort, an Adults Only resort for making new acquaintances, an Adults Only resort for couples, and the best family hotels with numerous amenities for kids, etc. Your travel advisor can assist you in selecting the perfect resort that ideally matches your preferences!
4. Set a Budget for Tipping!All-inclusive vacation packages in the Dominican Republic do not include tips, even if your tour operator or agent tells you they are. It's a good idea to prepare $1, $2, and $5 bills (USD, CAD or EUR) for tipping. In the Dominican Republic, the usual tipping practice is as follows: $2-$5 for a table of 2 or a family for each meal (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), $1-$2 for each drink at the bars, $5-10$ per day for housekeeping, $5-$10 for guest service, and $20 or more for concierges.
5. Don't Stay At The Resort All The Time!Don't make yourself a slave to All-inclusive! The free food and beverages are not worth missing out on experiencing the local flavour! Consider taking at least one excursion! Or take a taxi to explore and see how locals really live. However, we strongly recommend consulting with your local guide about safety before doing such a thing.

THREE EXCLUSIVE MODES

1. Turn on the "Ma?ana Mode"!What is "Ma?ana Mode"? It refers to a cultural concept particularly prevalent in the Dominican Republic and other tropical countries, characterized by a relaxed, unhurried approach to life and tasks. When Dominicans say "ok, ma?ana," which translates to "ok, I will do it tomorrow," it often implies that the request may not be fulfilled promptly. This expression, "ma?ana mode," is used to describe an atmosphere where there's no rush. In these tropical regions, it's typical for things to move at a slower pace. Waiting longer for your drink or meal is normal, as is the occasional delay in fulfilling orders. So, keep calm and be free from time!
2. Turn on "Mi Amor" Mode!"Mi Amor" literally translates to "my love," but for us Dominicans, it's a more endearing and warmer form of "Dear." So, when you address your waiter or any other hotel staff or guide with "Mi Amor," you'll immediately see them flash a wide smile at you! It's a magical word that opens many doors which remain closed to those who don't use these secret words!
3. Turn on "Tranquilo" Mode!What people usually answer when you ask "How are you?" Most people might respond with "good," "fine," "not bad," "awesome," and so on. But do you know how we Dominicans usually answer this question? We don't say "good" or "bad," we just say "Tranquilo," which means "calm" or "peaceful." So, let this spirit of tranquillity enter your heart. Forget about your business, your work, the political situation in your country, and all kinds of worries. Just embrace and repeat "Tranquilo!"

If you are a travel advisor, remember these points and encourage your clients to follow them!

If you are an individual planning a visit to the Dominican Republic, just keep these tips in mind, stay relaxed, and enjoy your time in the Dominican Republic!

? Artur Khachatryan