All-Inclusive Resorts and Cottages in May 2025: What You Need to Know
When you think of a all-inclusive resort, a vacation package where meals, drinks, and activities are bundled into one price. Also known as full-board resort, it’s become a go-to for travelers who want to avoid surprise charges. But here’s the catch: "all-inclusive" doesn’t always mean what you think. Some resorts limit your alcohol, charge extra for premium brands, or sneak in resort fees you didn’t agree to. Meanwhile, if you’re drawn to quieter escapes, cottage, a small, often rustic home, typically in a rural or lakeside setting, used for short-term stays. Also known as holiday rental, it’s more than just a cozy cabin—it’s a whole lifestyle choice. Whether you’re booking a weekend getaway or planning a long-term rental, understanding the real differences between a cottage and a small house, or a farmhouse and a country house hotel, helps you pick the right spot.
What’s driving the conversation in May 2025? People are asking hard questions. Can you really drink as much as you want at an all-inclusive resort? Turns out, some places cap your cocktails or charge for premium liquor. And those resort fees? They’re not always optional. We’ve seen travelers successfully challenge them, but only if they know the rules. Then there’s the cottage boom. More folks are turning their cabins into last-minute rentals—and making real money. But it’s not just about listing on a site. Location, cleanliness, and even the shape of the building matter. A round or rectangular cottage can save you thousands in construction costs and energy bills. And if you’re going green? Materials, water systems, and how you position the structure on the land make a bigger difference than solar panels alone. Even the name "cottage" has history—once a worker’s home, now a luxury escape. Meanwhile, country house hotels are pulling in repeat guests not just for their charm, but because they offer something booking sites can’t: personality, local food, and dogs welcome signs.
By May 2025, the conversation isn’t about fancy amenities anymore. It’s about value, honesty, and real experiences. You don’t need a jacuzzi suite to relax—you need to know what’s actually included, what’s hidden, and where the money really goes. Whether you’re trying to avoid a surprise bill at checkout, figuring out how much to tip your server, or deciding if a glamping tent has a real toilet, the answers are here. Below, you’ll find clear, no-fluff guides on everything from meal counts at resorts to the cheapest way to build a cottage that’s kind to your wallet and the planet. No marketing hype. Just what works, what doesn’t, and what you need to know before you book.