Resort Policies: What You Need to Know Before Booking Your Caribbean Trip

When you book an all-inclusive resort, a vacation package that covers lodging, meals, drinks, and often activities in one upfront price. Also known as full-board resorts, these places promise ease—but they also come with rules that can catch you off guard if you don’t know them. Many travelers assume "all-inclusive" means unlimited freedom, but that’s not always true. Resorts set limits on alcohol, enforce quiet hours, restrict access to certain areas, and even control how you tip staff. These aren’t just random restrictions—they’re built into how these resorts stay profitable and keep service smooth.

One of the biggest surprises? tipping at all-inclusive resorts, the custom of giving extra money to staff even when everything is supposedly covered. Also known as gratuity etiquette, it varies by country and even by resort. In some places, tipping is expected to show appreciation; in others, it’s discouraged because staff are paid a living wage. Then there’s alcohol policy, the rules around how much and when you can drink. Many resorts limit open-bar hours, ban bringing outside alcohol, or restrict premium liquor to certain bars. Why? To control costs and prevent overconsumption that leads to safety issues. And if you need to change your plans? cancellation policies, the terms that decide if you get your money back when you cancel. Also known as refund rules, these are often strict—especially during peak season. You might lose your deposit if you cancel too close to arrival, even for good reasons like illness.

These policies aren’t there to annoy you. They’re how resorts manage crowds, protect their staff, and keep prices low for everyone. Knowing them helps you avoid awkward moments—like being told you can’t order another rum punch after 10 p.m., or feeling guilty for not tipping someone who went out of their way to help you. The posts below cover real experiences: why some resorts limit your drinks, whether tipping actually matters, how to cancel without losing cash, and what hidden fees might still show up on your bill. You’ll find out what to pack, what to ask before booking, and which resorts are actually fair about their rules. No fluff. Just what works.