Do you go on all-inclusive holidays?

I am jobless, so no.

i wonder if dave cameron has been informed, he likes to travel economy class apparently

TBH i couldnt think of anything worse for a holiday. constraints of poor buffet style food with watered down spirits and walking about with a coloured wrist band on for 2 weeks. We tend not to visit areas that are saturated with football strip wearing neds with tacky clubs and worse food. But i suppose this may be an economical way of holidaying for families on a tight budget so i dont see the harm in them. Never really heard anyone give good reviews of their all inclusive holidays . Part of the charm is finding a back street cafe and eating with the locals immersing yourself in their culture not eating fish and chips or curry from a buffet

Our last two holidays which were to Cuba were all inclusive and it makes life so simple and relaxing, you could eat and drink what you wanted when you wanted and no one drank to excess or spoilt our time there.

The only thing to remember in some countries the staff live off their tips and they can be forgotten in all inclusive places so try and tip those that deserve it especially in the poorer countries where it will be gratefully received.

Can't afford a holiday - so couldn't care less!!!

I try to avoid drunken brits on all-inclusive holidays . I go abroad to get away from the drink as much as you can culture in this country all-inclusive drink until your sick holidays have no appeal to me.

We don't want a nanny state - but we do want a nanny holiday by the look of it.

All inclusive deals don't bring any benefits to the local economy in the resorts.
The resort on Lazarotte we go to has seen a 40% drop in business for the local bars and restaurants since the large hotels started all-inclusive deals.
The situation is worse in places like the Dominican Republic where the hotel complexes are completely self-contained and the local population aren't even employed in the hotels.
People on all-inclusive deals can find themselves experiencing a 'second-best' holiday too. I know people who have experienced restrictions such as dilute orange not freshly squeezed orange drinks at breakfast ,restrictions on which bars they can use, buffet and menu choices etc.

Cue the usual miserable souls who will come on here and complain that they can't afford to go on holiday because of the government.

It is always someone else's fault isn't it?

Sometimes OK to pay for one day all inclusive, but a whole holiday? No thanks, I like to explore and eat in different places, and, sadly, if it's "all you can eat" I tend to take that as a challenge and eat too much!

All inclusive was a god send when my children were between 7 and 16 years of age. The flexibility offered and the lack of worry in finding extra money is great.

AI is also uselful when you want to got to areas where life outside resorts poses risks.

Having said that if I wanted an adventurous holiday I'd be self catering all the way.

What a PR bonanza for First Choice! Who says there is no such thing as a free lunch?

It really depends what kind of holiday you want as to whether all inclusive is a good deal or not. For the last three years we have gone all inclusive with Thomson on their 'Gold' programme to the same hotel and it has been great. But it is only great because in the summer we go for a relaxing sunny break and are not interested in touring or sight seeing. And the hotel we stay at is perfect for everything we want from a relaxing holiday. it is good to go knowing that everything is there and you don't have to lift a finger.

For other holidays we take in the year we don't go all inclusive because they tend to be sight seeing type holidays and we would waste money booking all inclusive, and often they are in the UK anyway.

So you pays your money and takes your choice.

All-inclusive is OK, but you are restricted. I stayed AI last year in Tenerife. Whilst the food and drink were excellent, I missed going out to all the lovely restaurants that I know are there. We saved a bit of money, but I think next time I'll skimp on the accommodation and enjoy the food more!

We went to Cuba on an all inclusive holiday I overheard one English chap say to another - "This holiday has cost me £800 so i'm determined to drink £800 worth of beer while I'm here". He could have done the same down his local! Seriously though it does not encourage people to go outside a resort at all which is a shame.

What's the point of going to a far off place to spend it all (or most of it) sat around the Hotel pool or bar, just so you get your money's worth? Missing out on backstreet eating places and bars, as well as the culture and history of the country.

I'll leave All-Inclusives to the chavs who binge drink, eat like pigs and are happy to sit round the pool sunbathing, content that they're getting their money's worth out of the Hotel! I want more than a sun tan when I go abroad!

I prefer to go B&B or even just Bed, as I'm not normally up for Breakfast or take it on th eway to the beach. I'm not one to lol about around a hotel complex/resort and like to go out. Even though I go to the same place twice a year now having saved the money I uded to spend on fags, I like to sample the food in various tavernas and restaurants. I did get put in an all inclusive after a flight delay once and it seemed you just rolled from bed to breakfast to lounger to snacks to lunch to lounger to snacks to dinner and you had to get their early otherwise all there was left was the leftovers on plates that lardy-holidays makers had piled up so high that even they couldn't manage it!

There's nothing more pathetic than paying for a holiday where you spend all your time in the hotel.

"9. At 11:39am 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

Cue the usual miserable souls who will come on here and complain that they can't afford to go on holiday because of the government.

It is always someone else's fault isn't it?"

---

Yes god forbid you should read some comments from the other side of the street.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and as this is a public board, they are also entitled to air it. As are you, unfortunately.


As for holidays, I haven't had one for 15 years, due to being one of the low paid, but hard working, "working poor", so First Choice's bit of PR, courtesy of the BBC has no impact on my time off.

I have only been on one all-in hol. It was cr*p! The idea of the back street cafe thing and sucking up local culture is also a none starter. ALL THE BL*ODY FOREIGNERS COME HERE NOW SO EVEN THAT'S A BORE. I think I shall go on cruise next - a life on the Ocean Wave and all that.

Big trouble with all-in deals is that there are always loads of other people's kids running round tables knocking drinks over and the like. It's not really the kid's fault it's the blo*dy parents that need thrashin'. Ohhh I think I'll go and have a lie down.

It all depends on what sort of holiday you enjoy - it is not always down to the cost. It wouldn't do for everybody to like the same thing.

I would only go on an all inclusive holiday if I wanted to stay in the same resort, have a relaxing time and not have to worry about the cooking etc. If I wanted to be more adventurous I would organise it myself.

I saw one of of the posts referred to druken Brits runnin' riot. Well I take the point but if the watered down drinks that we sufferred on our all-in are anything to go by then you would need a long long and have to drink buckets full of the dodgy grog to get anything like merry.

Good for the kidneys but cr*p on the social side. I always have a giggle watching a professional drunk. Yes I know - before you say it I am a bad'un.

First Choice seems to be aiming for the sector of holidaying public who would rather not leave the hotel or walled resort to explore the local culture, restaurants and sights. It's a useful thing to know as I can now cross First Choice off my list when selecting a holiday.

20. At 12:55pm 8th Apr 2011, Chrisie wrote:
I have only been on one all-in hol. It was cr*p! The idea of the back street cafe thing and sucking up local culture is also a none starter. ALL THE BL*ODY FOREIGNERS COME HERE NOW SO EVEN THAT'S A BORE. I think I shall go on cruise next - a life on the Ocean Wave and all that.

Big trouble with all-in deals is that there are always loads of other people's kids running round tables knocking drinks over and the like. It's not really the kid's fault it's the blo*dy parents that need thrashin'. Ohhh I think I'll go and have a lie down.

-----------------

I think you had better, or you might need a holiday just thinking about it all that stress!

I am lucky still being able to afford to have a holiday in the current climate but we have both worked hard all our lives, and saved a bit, and we intend to enjoy our last few years having a bit of fun. I do have sympathy for those of more humble means and cant afford to take even an all-in hol but hey that's life.
When our young family members come running up to complain about..... de dar... "and it's not fair". I tell them that there are TWO rules of life from the time you are born. 1. Life is not fair. 2. When in doubt refer to rule 1. I also say to them that if you dont like your life then find a way to change it.

To MoFro No 24. You have got it all wrong old son... I am not stressed I am too busy having holidays...Heh Heh Heh

I can't afford a holiday

This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.

I have never been on one but I imagine that it depends on where you are. Afraid the idea of all-in-one a la Benidorm is not my idea of fun but if it were in a quieter, more remote place where the resort extended to the beach and surrounds as opposed to the pool and bar then I might consider it. The wristband idea is a bit off-putting but these kinds of holidays suit some people so fair play to them. I try to avoid the 'all day breakfast/chips with everything' type hotels anyway because I don't enjoy it. I don't eat that kind of food at home so I wouldn't start on holiday. That is my choice!

Depends. I like all inclusive if I'm going somewhere like the Maldives or Mauritius. Be daft not to as it's top quality stuff and local food and drink isn't always the best (if any at all). Saying that I'd still venture out occasionally if there's anything worth doing or trying. But when I'm doing, say, an American road trip or even a week in Cornwall, then I prefer to explore, get out and about and sample the local culture, food and people. Depends what type of holiday you want. I like to try everything.

No, they are not for me. They tend to be arranged by the lowest possible cost, I prefer the highest quality. I don't look for the lowest possible air fare, I want a reserved seat with adequate leg room and sensible flight times so I don't need to get up in the middle of the night to get to the airport on time. I want to drink what I chose rather than whats available at the lowest price. I want to eat the best local food, not the cheapest that can be found and, probably, imported. I want a king size bed and separate shower and bath, breakfast in my room and effective air conditioning.

Probably not one of their smartest ideas.
They obviously want to justify higher prices whilst streamlining the contract process and expenses with hotel complexes.
There are plenty more options out there for people who don't wish to be lazy and book with the first travel agent they can think of.

Best of luck to them - they will need it

I do not go on holidays, when I have time off from work I relax at home.
Holidfays are too expensive and too stressful.

When working in Gran Canaria I met 2 Irish families that spent all their time either at the free restaurant or the free bar when it opened and stayed there in the shade all week.

I asked them "why don't you go and see the sights?"
Their reply - "We dont want to get a tan and have awkward questions from the Jobcentre when we go back home"

I used to go on all inclusive holidays until I realised that the packages on offer were far too restrictive and my favourite hotel was quite prepared to give me "special favoured terms" and that I could also buy my airline tickets at a discount. So what is the point of all inclusive unless you happen to sieze on a real bargain and want to try a whole new experience/venue?

We are, but we are going to an island that the majority of people wouldn't be able to pinpoint on a map, the place is so small there are only a few hotels and every one is 5* AI.

Emzdad #28 would probably find it ideal. I have yet to read a bad report.

Despite this we intend on leaving the hotel and will use local restaurants.

3. At 11:18am 8th Apr 2011, surfingkenny wrote:

I bet you're the kind of person who puts on a local accent when you talk as well...

I would never go All Inc: part of the joy of holidays is dining out at different restaurants, I have heard how many families have been served up with the most disgusting food and have had to eat out because it was unpalatable. The other downside is that you are tied to three times of the day which is not ideal when you are on holiday, as for drinks they only give you their cheapest so all in all I think First Choice is on a massive loser here

Also First Choice has always been more expensive than most other companies, and I have found them very disappointing in the past, so I shall continue to have holidays where I can do as I please and not be governed by a timetable

For those who can afford them, All Inclusives will be tempting but in reality people will want o have the ability to eat, drink and do wha they want and will want to explore the area they are in. All Inclusives usually mean a complex that you never leave.
All Inclusives are good for families as it means that the costs are kept to a minimum, but in reality they are normally a way of the companies controlling costs and customers and driving up profits.
Having been on a couple, they were good especially as all I wanted to do was crash and do very little at the time but they were expensive then.

Not bothered by this that much, like many other posters i tend to avoid low cost all-in as the value is poor and choices limited. Much more fun to get out and explore for yourself..

If you are going to a non-English speaking country it is best, in my opinion, to go with a reputable tour company. Before you leave on your trip, you are sent a complete package of what to wear, vaccinations needed, right down to 'bring a flash light'. On safari in Africa, you will find this beneficial. When you land you are picked up and taken to your hotel, an itinerary for the next day is presented to you, and places you want to see are where you are taken. No line-ups for tickets to museums, etc., because they are inclusive and you enter first. All meals are included and so is gratuity. If anything untoward occurs and makes the tour unsafe, they will cancel taking you there. Certainly visiting a country for the first time, this is the best way to go. Expensive but worth every penny.

This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.

I have just booked one, I took several days to research prices, and finaly decided to go this route again, no need to look into exchange rates and commission charges with cards etc. we like our salad buffets, and do not eat fried greasy fast food. The price difference between SC was £70 PPPW HB WAS £50 PPPW, and FB was £10 PPPW. Call me sexist, but this way my wife has a holiday, and we do not have to think about planning for next meal, and where the children are or will they eat drink enough compared to health needs with temp changes.

In past We have found this method is a easier and better solution, the difference from SC and eating out daily, overall can soon mount up to a minimum of £600 per family of 4 per week.

How strange that people use articles like this to moan "I can't afford a holiday" or "I haven't got a job" well diddums. Hardly the place for it!

We have been to the Dominican Republic, Jamaica on honeymoon and this year will be going to Tunisia. All will have been all inclusive. It's a fantastic experience, eat and drink to your hearts content and providing you go 4 or 5 star yo avoid the beer swilling yobs and chavs.

Good move First Choice!

its 20-20

i was in egypt on an all inc holiday (we flew home the day the riots started) and we enjoyed the all inc package, if you where not going to be there for one of your 3 square meals they would give you a pack lunch.

and for the folk that say you cant take in the culture on an all inc holiday then your wrong, out of 7 days we only spent 3 days in the hotel grounds relaxing.. the rest was excursions, which where fantastic!

its also a peace of mind knowing that the price you pay to book your holiday is the only amount you pay, not hidden charges, not pacing your money for food at the end of the week. you only have to worry about spending money and you take very little because you dont need to buy anything!

you book, you pay and thats it relax thats what your there to do!

I love all the "I know best" comments on here.

This is surly all down to personal taste no? Some people believe if they organise their own holiday and eat out at 'Local' restaurants' (all close enough to resort mind you) you are sampling the 'local' culture, fair enough. Some may want to spend two weeks doing absolutely nothing but relaxing, so an AI is perfect, you pretty much don’t have to lift a finger.

Personally I don't mind both. I spend 5 months travelling around SE Asia and Australia a few years ago, but my last 5 summer holidays have been AI's to Egypt and Greece. I enjoyed the travelling as much as the doing nothing on my AI holidays, I have found both have positive and negative points.

All inclusive holidays are not a new thing at all, My late wife and I went on some in the late '70's and '80's, they are good if you are on a tight budget - which through Cameron and Klegg's actions, many probably won't even be able to afford even that!

Personally speaking, I prefer the out of the way places, it doesn't necessarily cost an arm and a leg, in 2004 I took my son to Canada, hired an AWD camper and set off into the Canadian Rockies and on up into Alaska, a breathtaking experience we still talk about a lot - wildlife, mountains and rivers absolutely amazing. True, you have to do your research properly and thoroughly before taking "The leap" - where ever your holiday destination is - which for us is has been part of the fun.

It is possible to "design" your own holidays through the internet - Flight, Hotel or Self Catering or Camper, we've done it many times and have never regretted it, self catering is ideal as you can be as active or as inactive as you want to be if you want to stay in one area - with or without a hire car or local public transport, without the risk of missing breakfast, lunch or dinner and not hailing to that "Good morning Campers" call on the tannoy! etc.

If your sensible and plan things well in advance and book well in advance through the 'net' - if it is within your budget - it is possible to get a fantastic holiday through designing your own holiday without having to go through a travel agent or holiday company - there are many flights that don't cost a fortune, to see the holiday destination country as it really is.
But here you do need to find out about any vaccinations you may or may not need, and take heed of any advice on areas to stay clear of.

I'm in my mid '60's now, 'designing our own holidays' has taken us to most of Europe, Canada, Alaska, Australia and America. Normally pre-booking the hire of a car/camper at the destination - though you do need nerves of steel if you intend driving in or near Rome, Nice and some parts of France - but there again driving in the UK is hardly a breeze in the park these days either, is it?
There is a 'French Eurotravel Centre' in Kings cross I seem to remember, where it is possible to purchase tickets for the Eurotunnel trains far cheaper than going through the net - though there is of course the cost of getting to Kings Cross, but worth looking into if your in that neck of the woods.

Plenty of people have very narrow horizons, go on holiday purely for the sun, don't want to eat 'foreign food' and so are delighted with AI deals. I would be wary of the 'local drink' though - locally brewed beer and wine, no branded spirits, nothing you've ever heard of. But the brands you know will be on sale - at a premium price.

It probably wouldn't make us book first choice as one of the rare holidays that went wrong was booked through them and they were useless so we swore we would not use them again. Also if the food is no good you might feel obliged to still eat there as the price you have paid includes the cost of this. It could also get a bit boring eating in the same holiday complex for 2 weeks so on balance, for us it would not be worthwhile. It also seems a shame to deprive the local economy from benefiting from tourism rather than just vast holiday complexes.

These days we tend to either do cruises or book separate travel and accommodation ourselves so have not done a package holiday for some years.

I am now in my 60s and have only recently (last 6 or 7 years) tried all-inclusive! I wish I had used them before, it really is much cheaper and easier in that you don't need to carry money with you all the time.
If you pick a 4* hotel or better, the food is usually excellent.
Looking forward to the next one!
The only downside is that it does tempt you to eat in at lunchtimes etc. when you could be exploring the resort or further afield.

I have never been on holiday, I have a day out every now and then thats it.

"It could also get a bit boring eating in the same holiday complex for 2 weeks"

"These days we tend to do cruises"

Errm.....
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Plenty of people have very narrow horizons, go on holiday purely for the sun, don't want to eat 'foreign food' and so are delighted with AI deals."

This is exactly what I'm talking about. Why does it make someone narrow minded if THEY choose to spend their holiday lying in the sun? Just because it's not your idea of a great time, who says it's not someone else’s?

For all you know their job could involve working with a rich diversity of cultures and nationalities, and the last thing they want to do is spend 2 weeks reliving their 9-5.

Too many people try to be so different they all end up being the same.....

All-inclusive is fine if you don't actually want to see the country you're in. If you want something approaching your momey's worth, you have to eat and drink until it's coming out of your ears, which means no chance to go out and explore - in which case it doesn't really matter what country you're in. The best thing is a bed-and-breakfast. Then you have plenty of opportunity to find out where you are! Hire a car and roam around. And who wants to be stuck with a crowd of tourists anyway? Go out and meet the locals.

19. At 12:46pm 8th Apr 2011, ravenmorpheus2k wrote:

"9. At 11:39am 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

Cue the usual miserable souls who will come on here and complain that they can't afford to go on holiday because of the government.

It is always someone else's fault isn't it?"

---

Yes god forbid you should read some comments from the other side of the street.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and as this is a public board, they are also entitled to air it. As are you, unfortunately.


As for holidays, I haven't had one for 15 years, due to being one of the low paid, but hard working, "working poor", so First Choice's bit of PR, courtesy of the BBC has no impact on my time off.

---------------

My point is proved in only 10 posts. Priceless!

All In Holidays abroad?

Would that not just mean Continental Butlins?

If so we may as well stay home..

Hi Di Hi

"54. At 15:45pm 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

19. At 12:46pm 8th Apr 2011, ravenmorpheus2k wrote:

"9. At 11:39am 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

Cue the usual miserable souls who will come on here and complain that they can't afford to go on holiday because of the government.

It is always someone else's fault isn't it?"

---

Yes god forbid you should read some comments from the other side of the street.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and as this is a public board, they are also entitled to air it. As are you, unfortunately.


As for holidays, I haven't had one for 15 years, due to being one of the low paid, but hard working, "working poor", so First Choice's bit of PR, courtesy of the BBC has no impact on my time off.

---------------

My point is proved in only 10 posts. Priceless!
"

You might want to read my comment again then.

Can you see where I blamed anyone, or indeed the government? Hmm. No? Oh shame. Guess your point hasn't been proven then.

44. At 14:52pm 8th Apr 2011, bhastings316 wrote:


We have been to the Dominican Republic, Jamaica on honeymoon and this year will be going to Tunisia. All will have been all inclusive. It's a fantastic experience, eat and drink to your hearts content and providing you go 4 or 5 star yo avoid the beer swilling yobs and chavs

.............................................................................................

A family I know went 5 star inclusive to the Jamaica and place was full of middle class teenage drunken american yobs on holiday paid for by their parents it was a nightmare .

We always go AI as we have a limited budget. We don't stay on site all the time & do take excursions and eat out but by going AI we know that if we do run out of spending money as can still eat & drink

Not everyone on AI likes to drink till they drop & there is no need to mix with the 'lager lout brigade'

I'm a very experienced traveller and depending on your location AI is a very good choice - in some areas of the Carribean or Maldives if you don't go AI they will charge around £40 per head for a meal.

Also years ago I would never have encouraged AI in Europe but things have got so expensive its worthwhile - including Turkey.

If people choose a hotel carefully and not as seen on the tv show 'Benidorm' AI can be very pleasant.

Also as First Choice is part of the Tui group and not independant anymore this really isn't much of a gamble.

I was very sceptical before my first all-inclusive but, since then, I have never been away on any other basis. Drinks whenever you want, as much as you want. Food at set times (with 2 or 3 hours so you can eat as it suits you) is great with some AI's doing 24 hr room service included (although you should tip when it's brought to the room).

@ #55.... it's definitely NOT Butlins abroad. I am very particular about my holidays as I have 1 a year that I save very hard for and if you pay for a 5* Hotel, particularly in the Caribbean or Mexico, you get excellent service, good food and although the drinks are 'local' and a bit weak you can drink as many as you like. Try tipping too... see how different the service is.

We went to Turkey and it was ruined by the Russian people who are simply rude to the staff, rude to other holidaymakers and have absolutely no concept of waiting for anything. The Turkish barman I spoke to wasn't too pleasant about them - what I've said is positive in comparison.

I have no credit cards or debt apart from my car (that I need to get to work) and mortgage so don't hate me for not being desperate enough for all those expensive gadgets to put them on plastic.

Most people enjoy two weeks holiday and then go back to looking forward to their next holiday.

I go to Blackpool and spend two weeks looking forward to going home.

If there is any danger of Meeting The Cameron's at the airport not on your nelly!

Are we back to HYS old format? If so, good.

Why not? The Royal Family have been doing it since time began

6. At 11:36am 8th Apr 2011, frankiecrisp wrote:

I try to avoid drunken brits on all-inclusive holidays . I go abroad to get away from the drink as much as you can culture in this country all-inclusive drink until your sick holidays have no appeal to me.

Your obviously going to the wrong places. I've been on seven all inclusive holidays without meeting drunkem Brits.

61. At 17:05pm 8th Apr 2011, angry_of_garston wrote:

Most people enjoy two weeks holiday and then go back to looking forward to their next holiday.

I go to Blackpool and spend two weeks looking forward to going home

_____________________________________________________________


If I went to Blackpool I too would look forward to going home.......very quickly!!

56. At 16:05pm 8th Apr 2011, ravenmorpheus2k wrote:

"54. At 15:45pm 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

19. At 12:46pm 8th Apr 2011, ravenmorpheus2k wrote:

"9. At 11:39am 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

Cue the usual miserable souls who will come on here and complain that they can't afford to go on holiday because of the government.

It is always someone else's fault isn't it?"

---

Yes god forbid you should read some comments from the other side of the street.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and as this is a public board, they are also entitled to air it. As are you, unfortunately.


As for holidays, I haven't had one for 15 years, due to being one of the low paid, but hard working, "working poor", so First Choice's bit of PR, courtesy of the BBC has no impact on my time off.

---------------

My point is proved in only 10 posts. Priceless!
"

You might want to read my comment again then.

Can you see where I blamed anyone, or indeed the government? Hmm. No? Oh shame. Guess your point hasn't been proven then.

------------------------

Why is that the term "low paid" is always followed with the words "hard working"?

I holiday as and when I like.

Tried all-inclusive holidays years ago, cant stand them, much prefer to be in full control and able to make non-restrictive choices/changes as and when I please.

Cant stand masses of people/crowds and long queues for everything when holidaying, hence prefer more remote destinations, less spoilt by numpty spoilers who have less manners and consideration for others than a wort-hog on steroids.

Why people want to holiday with a bunch of Meerkat lookalikes all popping their heads up checking out whos wearing what labels on their luggage & who's skin is a deeper colour of roasted red while sweating profusely as if a heart attack is imminent, is beyond me.

No, I prefer to travel outside of sardine/sheep herding and the maximising profits for as little effort as possible services. If I want to experience similar it's easier to just get on London Underground Monday or Friday rush hour, why people do it as part of their holiday experience is crazy.

When I go on holiday it's chilled from start to end, no rush, no overcrowding, no delays or overbooking, no nightmare losing luggage, no nightmare getting a surprise nasty holiday hotel.

Anyway, I couldnt afford to go on an all-inclusive holiday because I couldnt afford to pay the prices to meet my standards/requirements, I'd have to be on Fred Goodwin or Richard Branson salary.

It's bad enough government telling me what to do with my life and money, when I escape on holiday no-one tells me what to do or where to go or what time/when.

People moan so much about the "nanny state" restricting freedoms etc yet so many sheep type people are just endemically born into being herded and told what to do, giving an excuse of its easier.

It's factually just lazier.

Do you go on all-inclusive holidays?

No.

My last 2-week break from work was in 1982 since when I prefer just a few long weekends each year, all within the UK, no flying, no packages, no middlemen, just a low key relaxing time.

I do understand that packages can reduce money and effort for families but paying to be packaged and shipped abroad like some sardine to be roasted on a beach is my definition of hell not holiday!

It deprives one from doing things on the spur of the moment but it helps to control budgets. It's a serious alternative indeed.

"67. At 18:29pm 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

56. At 16:05pm 8th Apr 2011, ravenmorpheus2k wrote:

"54. At 15:45pm 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

19. At 12:46pm 8th Apr 2011, ravenmorpheus2k wrote:

"9. At 11:39am 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

Cue the usual miserable souls who will come on here and complain that they can't afford to go on holiday because of the government.

It is always someone else's fault isn't it?"

---

Yes god forbid you should read some comments from the other side of the street.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and as this is a public board, they are also entitled to air it. As are you, unfortunately.


As for holidays, I haven't had one for 15 years, due to being one of the low paid, but hard working, "working poor", so First Choice's bit of PR, courtesy of the BBC has no impact on my time off.

---------------

My point is proved in only 10 posts. Priceless!
"

You might want to read my comment again then.

Can you see where I blamed anyone, or indeed the government? Hmm. No? Oh shame. Guess your point hasn't been proven then.

------------------------

Why is that the term "low paid" is always followed with the words "hard working"?
"

---

Because hard working doesn't always mean well paid, it's a common misconception that people who work hard are always well paid, there are plenty of hard working people who are low paid. Take carers for example, they work their backsides off looking after people, but are relatively low paid.

Or do you think people take a low paid job and then sit back and let the others around them do the work?

Yours is a very narrow minded and prejudiced view.

But as I said you have the same right as everyone else does to air your views, unfortunately.

9. At 11:39am 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:
Cue the usual miserable souls who will come on here and complain that they can't afford to go on holiday because of the government.

It is always someone else's fault isn't it?

--------------------------------------------------

Wrong! I already spend enough time with fellow Brits at home. If you think I wish to go on holiday with them you are sadly misguided. Can't think of anything worse. Besides I like to put finance back into our economy, not anyone else's.

I never did and never will go on an allinclusive hollydays Trip.
It is probly like being Nannyed around. I always did my own Planing and
Booking and check for good prices myself.It can be done,takes alittle time
and practice,how to negotiate with the Natives.

It can evan be cheaper than an all inclusive Trip.how does one know
how they did set up this prices?

This ofcourse,had been only when i could afford a hollyday but its like for so
many now,not every year possible anymore,so i skip,but No all inclusive
evan it would really be somewhat cheaper,what i somehow doubt.

All inclusive is a good idea to keep the costs down. One can always forget the evening meal at the hotel on one night and go out for something special - it's likely to be cheaper overall than eating out every night.

Is it right to have a 'Have Your Say' topic that excludes all poor people from Sheffield?

The last time I had any money for a holiday was in 1980. One week self catering in the Lake District. But then I never worked for the state, banks or insurance in my working life.

Absolutely never.
A great shame I have used First Choice before and they were great, but that was when they offered a proper choice of hotel and level of catering (I opted for self catering and ate out locally to the small motel we chose to stay in as we hate crowds).
I wont use them again.
"All Inclusive" sounds a bit too much like fish and chips and Watneys red barrel for me! Not to mention the drunken greengrocers from Luton.
I will have to use Virgin again as Monty Python shares my view of package tours!

No, but I would encourage as many British holidaymakers as possible to take advantage of such deals and book their flights. A fortnight abroad, tootling between the beach and the restaurant during the day, then a good dose of head-banging at a deafening nightclub should go down well for anyone in need of a break and somewhere to spend their hard-earned benefits.

Me? I can't afford even that kind of luxury, but I will at least be able to relax somewhere in the British countryside, secure in the knowledge that the place is half-empty of the kind of people I would cross the street to avoid.

Personally, I would rather eat my own leg than go on an all-inclusive holiday. Sounds like they're planning to cater to the cheapest common denominator.

The thought of seeing the same awful people, and eating the same awful buffet food whilst they get steadily drunk on the 'all-inclusive' drinks is enough to make my blood run cold!

All inclusive is worthless you miss all lokal culture. I have not seen any all inclusive travel to London yet where you are supposed to stay whithin a confined area because it is dangerous outside the hotell area.

Firstly, congratulations BBC for having a proper have Your say, I had thought theses were a thing from the past. I don't like and will not contribute to your new format.

In terms of this thread, quality is far more important to me than quantity. Best of luck to all you drinkers who want to drown yourselves in "all included" booze and sub standard food. I value quality not quantity and personal choice, so I will find somewhere I like to eat and drink instead of being forced to accept the low quality provision of "all included".

Don't go on all inclusive holidays prefer to make my own arrangements regarding holidays.

Amazing what you can find if you go off the beaten track

Gosh there's some obnoxious people on here, obviously anyone who dares to have a different opinion to you should be flogged for their insolence !

So my boyfriend and I are narrowed minded, unimaginative, beer swilling chavs for going on an AI last month apparently ? Our week of relaxing in the sun at a 5* AI was exactly what both needed after a busy and draining winter, sitting in the sun with a few books and each other's company knowing we didn't have to worry about finding somewhere good to eat in the evening was wonderful. For our summer holiday we will be exploring the back street cafes, culture and sights of Greece...organised independently.

Don't tar everyone with the same brush - that makes *you* the narrow minded one. Not me.

Only done all inclusive once and it was great. An adult only resort in the Carribean, it was very civilized, no kids, no drunks, early to rise early to bed. So relaxing and comfortable after a very stressful year.

My wife and I do go all-inclusive when we can. It helps in the budgeting of the total holiday costs. As a mass market, vanilla-flavoured outfit, I can only think that First Choice have some profit-orientated motive for doing this. They will make more profit, whilst we will suffer from poor service and cheap and nasty food and drinks.

71. At 18:43pm 8th Apr 2011, ravenmorpheus2k wrote:

"67. At 18:29pm 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

56. At 16:05pm 8th Apr 2011, ravenmorpheus2k wrote:

"54. At 15:45pm 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

19. At 12:46pm 8th Apr 2011, ravenmorpheus2k wrote:

"9. At 11:39am 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

Cue the usual miserable souls who will come on here and complain that they can't afford to go on holiday because of the government.

It is always someone else's fault isn't it?"

---

Yes god forbid you should read some comments from the other side of the street.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and as this is a public board, they are also entitled to air it. As are you, unfortunately.


As for holidays, I haven't had one for 15 years, due to being one of the low paid, but hard working, "working poor", so First Choice's bit of PR, courtesy of the BBC has no impact on my time off.

---------------

My point is proved in only 10 posts. Priceless!
"

You might want to read my comment again then.

Can you see where I blamed anyone, or indeed the government? Hmm. No? Oh shame. Guess your point hasn't been proven then.

------------------------

Why is that the term "low paid" is always followed with the words "hard working"?
"

---

Because hard working doesn't always mean well paid, it's a common misconception that people who work hard are always well paid, there are plenty of hard working people who are low paid. Take carers for example, they work their backsides off looking after people, but are relatively low paid.

Or do you think people take a low paid job and then sit back and let the others around them do the work?

Yours is a very narrow minded and prejudiced view.

But as I said you have the same right as everyone else does to air your views, unfortunately.

------------------

The problem you have is that you equate "hard work" to how much money you think you should be paid. Only fools and donkeys work hard.

"86. At 01:14am 9th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

71. At 18:43pm 8th Apr 2011, ravenmorpheus2k wrote:

"67. At 18:29pm 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

56. At 16:05pm 8th Apr 2011, ravenmorpheus2k wrote:

"54. At 15:45pm 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

19. At 12:46pm 8th Apr 2011, ravenmorpheus2k wrote:

"9. At 11:39am 8th Apr 2011, Grim Attache wrote:

Cue the usual miserable souls who will come on here and complain that they can't afford to go on holiday because of the government.

It is always someone else's fault isn't it?"

---

Yes god forbid you should read some comments from the other side of the street.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and as this is a public board, they are also entitled to air it. As are you, unfortunately.


As for holidays, I haven't had one for 15 years, due to being one of the low paid, but hard working, "working poor", so First Choice's bit of PR, courtesy of the BBC has no impact on my time off.

---------------

My point is proved in only 10 posts. Priceless!
"

You might want to read my comment again then.

Can you see where I blamed anyone, or indeed the government? Hmm. No? Oh shame. Guess your point hasn't been proven then.

------------------------

Why is that the term "low paid" is always followed with the words "hard working"?
"

---

Because hard working doesn't always mean well paid, it's a common misconception that people who work hard are always well paid, there are plenty of hard working people who are low paid. Take carers for example, they work their backsides off looking after people, but are relatively low paid.

Or do you think people take a low paid job and then sit back and let the others around them do the work?

Yours is a very narrow minded and prejudiced view.

But as I said you have the same right as everyone else does to air your views, unfortunately.

------------------

The problem you have is that you equate "hard work" to how much money you think you should be paid. Only fools and donkeys work hard."
---

Well Mr I am so wealthy, care to explain exactly what "hard work" actually equates to?

Not that it's actually relevant to the topic at hand.

Kindly leave these boards to those who wish to have a rational discussion, all you've done so far is show your dislike of the less well off, in a number of topics here, and one could almost call you a troll, couldn't one? You're opening post indicates that all you wish to do is deride those who are less well off for having an opinion and daring to air it.

83!! good post!! I have come here to say nearly the same thing. Why are people here always SO opinionated and judgemental??

My husband and I went on an AI last year to Cancun, Mexico. It was a 5star resort, which included theaters with live shows each night, shuttle busses to the other three resorts, many pools, beaches, shopping, and amazing restaurants. yes there were buffets open 24hrs a day. You could go any time of the day.. you were not bound by ANY time constraints. And we did not have to go to the buffet.. we had an amazing top notch dinner every night at different restaurants. We did what we wanted to, when we wanted. but we chose not to. This was our first AI. We WANTED to just relax and enjoy the sun and beach and quiet of the resort. It was an terrific get away! If that is not what you are looking for, there is NO need to criticize others or name calling!

Never had to do one of these things, thank god. Do they really stop you from eating in nice restaurants or exploring local watering holes? And what's all this about having to wear wrist bands for 2 weeks? Ghastly idea; wild horses couldn't get me on an AI trip (or a Disney cruise for that matter)

Have people become such sheep that they can no longer act on their own free will?

The idea is good on paper. What remains to be seen is its implemention in real sense of the term. What I have experienced with such all-inclusive sop in India is that the food runs out, the soda is of cheaper variety and the management is least responsive. I would prefer meals to my liking and the drinks that I adore. And instead of being bound by the group itinerary and restrictions, a well-studied advance planning may prove a boon and a bonus.

When taking a family away for a holiday it must help a lot if you know your budget. All-in hols give peace of mind that your basic meals and drinks are all paid for - otherwise you could be broke before the end of the first week.

Unless you know the area well, you will have no idea of the cost of meals in local restaurants or the price of a glass of lemonade (often far more than that of an alcoholic drink) and with a couple of kids in tow costs can mount dramatically.

All-in is therefore a reasonable choice for families and not just the lazy chav's ticket for a sunny swimming pool. Many families will use All-in to "try out" a country or a resort and may return for a more adventurous holiday in subsequent years.

How snobby some HYS posters have been. I would also prefer to avoid drunken chavs when holidaying but as our tastes differ I rarely come across them. Live and let live. Families on a budget are entitled to an affordable break just as the more wealthy are. Not all All-in customers will be benefit scroungers - some may even read the Daily Mail just like you clearly do.

12. At 12:08pm 8th Apr 2011, Edwin Schrodinger wrote:
What a PR bonanza for First Choice! Who says there is no such thing as a free lunch?

================================================
Product placement anyone !

I like all inclusive, in some places. I'm not sure all-inclusive has to be an indicator of drunken brits around.

I went on an AI holiday to mexico with a few friends a couple of years ago. We did a lot of hanging around, which was brilliant. We also went out diving, saw some ruins, went to a lagoon...

Just a nice lazy holiday with a beer available whenever I wanted one. Would have been absolutely perfect if I hadn't got flu!


All that said, I'd never go to the AI resorts in spain or the canaries.

Yes,
the best holiday i ever had in a 4 star hotel in Cyprus
Had to return again and again
Recommend it for all working families just wanting to relax

Is there no end to the dumbing down debates forced on us by the BBC now ? Why do we have no debates on real, UK news anymore since the Tories got back into power ?

Only went all-inclusive once...a med cruise. Food was excellent and loads of it. Did manage to sneak ashore for a couple of evening to a couple of nice greek restaurants though.

All inc holidays are a great way of keeping in budget particularly if you have kids with you. These hotels do nothing however for the local economy and are often not even locally owned. They do make you less likely to venture out as much but then what you do on holiday when you work for it, is up to you. People who drink themselves stupid come from all classes and I have never seen anyone like that on an AI holiday. Drinking is not reserved for the British; try driving on Spanish or Greek roads during the evening! (or day for that matter) One thing though at least its a good way of keeping away from the snobs in their 'back street' cafes!!

5. At 11:28am 8th Apr 2011, drcarol wrote:
Can't afford a holiday - so couldn't care less!!!
----------------------------------------------------------------
Oh dear you poor thing. Get out and earn some money. Don't trot out the same old " There's no work about" There is if you look. Even in my darkest hours of unemployment I managed to find some work and take my kids on holiday. I was born in the war and my parents NEVER missed taking us on holiday despite the difficult post war times.

Not my sort of holiday full stop. I've always found going into the local culture a lot more interesting and cheaper anyway.

Reply to Icebloo at post 95.
Icebloo is upset by the 'dumbing down debates forced on us' by Auntie - this one in particular, I assume.
Two points:
1. who forced you or me to respond?
2. Auntie never offers us a debate - simply opportunities to have a whinge, parade our prejudices or offer anecdotes that are only of interest to the writer.
How excited would you be if I told you I prefer diy holidays to Clacton? Just a bit excited? Not at all excited? Bored rigid?