Types of Resorts

• Decide what type of Caribbean vacation you're looking for and the type of atmosphere you'd enjoy the most. Some resorts, such as Sandals, cater to couples and honeymooners looking for a quiet, relaxing time, while Hedonism Resorts have more of a wild, adults-only party scene. Beaches Resorts are geared toward kids and offers family-friendly activities. Frommer's recommends working with a travel agent when planning an all-inclusive vacation; he or she will have inside knowledge of resorts, their atmospheres and policies.
  
  

Food and Drinks

• One of the benefits of staying at an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean is that your meals and drinks are included in the package cost. Some resorts, such as Sandals and Breezes, have a no-tipping policy as well. If you enjoy searching for the best local spots, you might not be thrilled about eating every meal at your resort, but most Caribbean all-inclusives have multiple restaurants featuring a variety of cuisines. Beaches Turks & Caicos, for example, offers 16 on-property restaurants ranging from hibachi to seafood to an Irish pub.
  
  

Activities

• Whether you're planning to lie poolside or be adventurous on the water, chances are you can find a Caribbean resort to suit your needs. Most all-inclusives include water sports and other activities in your package, but check the resort's policies when doing your research. Breezes Bahamas, for example, includes water skiing, a flying trapeze, rock climbing, sailing, beach volleyball and dance classes, but golf is an additional fee. Beaches Negril includes activities such as kayaking, hydrobiking, tennis, shuffleboard, billiards, croquet and scuba diving, but scuba instruction/certification is an additional cost.
  
  

Before You Book

• Get the details in writing when booking your trip and read the fine print; some resorts charge extra to eat at specific restaurants or only offer free alcohol during certain hours, Fodor's warns. Check to see if there are additional fees for renting sports equipment or using resort facilities such as spas. Also check about airport transfers, as some resorts include these in your package as well. If you are traveling to the Caribbean during hurricane season (June through November), purchasing travel insurance is a sound idea.