The terms All-Inclusive (AI) and Ultra All-Inclusive (UAI), which refer to hotel dining packages, are well-known to many. However, the differences between them are not always clear. Here’s an explanation.

MAIN DIFFERENCE

Choosing a hotel with AI provides you with three buffet-style meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and complimentary drinks, including alcoholic ones. However, only local alcoholic beverages are free; imported ones are available for purchase.

The UAI package includes everything offered by AI plus complimentary imported alcoholic beverages.

It may seem simple, but in practice, there are nuances. Here’s what you should know.

WHAT ELSE TO KNOW?

*AI differs from Full Board (FB), where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included but not drinks, except for tea, coffee, water, and sometimes juice at breakfast.

*AI and UAI are especially popular in Turkey and Egypt, where these services are available not only in four- and five-star hotels but also in some three-star hotels. However, food options in three-star hotels may be less varied.

*In Europe, AI and UAI are less common than in Turkey and Egypt. If all-inclusive options are available, the selection is usually more modest compared to, for example, Turkey, where buffets are lavish and plentiful.

*When choosing an AI hotel in Europe, carefully consider whether you need it, as there are many tempting cafés and restaurants at resorts and in cities that might entice you to skip a pre-paid lunch or dinner.

*Remember that breakfast, lunch, and dinner for both AI and UAI packages are served at designated times, and latecomers may need to pay for missed meals.

*Many hotels with AI provide alcoholic drinks only during specific hours, typically from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

*UAI hotels often offer, in addition to the buffet, several other restaurants with various themes (such as different international cuisines). In these, guests order à la carte and pay separately, although the hotel may offer bonuses, such as a few free visits, discounts on specific dishes, or at certain times, etc.

THE GOLDEN RULE

When choosing AI or UAI, carefully research what your chosen hotel actually includes. Read traveler reviews, look at their photos, or, even better, consult the travel agency staff where you’re booking the trip. Many agents have personal experience with various hotels or have participated in familiarization tours, giving them an in-depth understanding of the specifics.