Included Meals: What You Really Get at Resorts and Cottages

When you book a stay with included meals, meals provided as part of your lodging package, often bundled with accommodation and sometimes activities. Also known as meal packages, they promise convenience—but too often, they deliver disappointment. You’re told it’s all covered: breakfast, lunch, dinner, maybe even snacks and drinks. But what does that actually mean? Is it a buffet with lukewarm scrambled eggs and rubbery sausage? Or is it fresh local food, real portions, and real choices? The truth is, included meals vary wildly—from bare-bones hotel spreads to gourmet experiences that rival standalone restaurants.

Many resorts label themselves as "all-inclusive," but that doesn’t mean you’re getting what you expect. all-inclusive hotels, properties that bundle lodging, food, and drinks into one upfront price. Also known as all-inclusive resorts, they often limit you to a few dining options, restrict premium brands, or cap your drink count at six per day. Some even charge extra for seafood, steak, or meals at specialty restaurants—even though you paid upfront. And don’t assume "unlimited" means what you think. A 2024 survey of 1,200 travelers found that 68% were surprised by hidden meal restrictions they didn’t see in the fine print.

Then there’s the difference between resorts and cozy cottages, small, often rustic accommodations that may offer kitchen access or simple breakfasts. Also known as vacation cabins, they give you control—cook your own meals, shop local, eat outside the resort bubble. If you’re looking for real flavor, not just quantity, cottages with basic meal inclusions (like a continental breakfast) can outperform all-inclusive chains. You’re not tied to a schedule. You’re not stuck eating the same pasta night after night.

It’s not just about what’s on the plate—it’s about the experience. Some places include meals because they’re trying to keep you on-site. Others include them because they care about your comfort. The difference shows in the freshness of the produce, the variety of options, and whether staff actually care if you’re satisfied. Ask yourself: Are you paying for convenience, or are you paying for a real food experience?

What you’ll find in the posts below aren’t just lists of what’s included—they’re real stories from travelers who got burned, saved money, or discovered hidden gems. You’ll learn how to spot the difference between a genuine meal package and a marketing trick. You’ll see how much alcohol is really included (spoiler: it’s rarely unlimited). You’ll find out why some resorts charge extra for kids’ meals even when they claim "all-inclusive." And you’ll see why sometimes, skipping the included meals altogether is the smartest move you can make.