All-Inclusive or NOT?  

I am an independent traveler that likes budget end accommodation like beach huts, backpacker hostels and locally owned guest houses. I like to ensure that money that I spend in a location goes to local community and benefits them. I love unspoilt beaches and tiny tropical islands. I like to explore like go caving, snorkeling around a coral reef, see native wildlife and meet the local people. I typically but a flight then travel around five or so different places staying in rustic or small accommodation. I don't choose to stay in large hotels with huge swimming pools. I did this once to use as a cheap way to go off on my own safari. I hate the thought of going on an all inclusive deal and staying in a posh resort far removed from the reality of its location. Locked gates and a beach patrolled by a security guard would be my idea of a nightmare. Wearing a wrist band is not something I would want to do. I want to get around see amazing scenery and see the real country not a tourist brochure impression of a place.

Not! I like the timeshare system really. Since 1995 I've revelled in some wonderful villas and apartments in some of the best and most exclusive areas at prices that seem so low that friends often don't believe how I can manage the holiday costs I appear to have. All inclusive restricts your diet to on resort. What about the country outside? There is a world full of culture out there that needs to be tapped into and enjoyed. The food and the customs of our fellow neighbours is so much more interesting than the gluttony that is all inclusive.