When choosing a resort at any destination, there are several factors you’ll want to consider. Some of these may matter more to you and your traveling party than others, but they all are important to think about. These are my top four considerations!
1. Location, location location! Do you want to be right in the middle of the action, or do you prefer something quiet and a little removed? Location is an important consideration to all travelers, but especially those with children, accessibility requirements, and large groups with lots of people to wrangle. You might want to be walkable to restaurants and shops, or you might want to be right on the beach or the mountain (ski-in ski-out, anyone?) Proximity to the reason why you chose your destination is likely what you value.
2. Amenities matter! You may prefer a full kitchen, or you may prefer on-property dining options or room service. When considering amenities, you might also think about things like housekeeping service, fitness centers, tennis courts, pools, on-site waterslides, spas, concierge, planned activities, and kids’ clubs! Think about what your ideal property looks (and feels!) like! You may be surprised by how much variety there is.
3. Budget! You definitely want to find a resort that fits well within your budget, with the ultimate goal of maximizing what you get for your hard-earned dollar while still creating the vacation experience you are looking for.
4. Consider exclusivity. What does this property offer that others don’t? It may be things like early entry to theme parks or skip-the-line perks, but it also might be access to private beaches or golf courses. Some hotels in bigger cities have concierge that are invaluable – getting you tickets to big shows or to the best restaurants. Others have amenities or activities right on property that you can’t find anywhere else. This also applies to your room category! For example, having a suite on a cruise can sometimes get you access to suite-only restaurants or pools.
Google and Instagram aren’t going to be able to tell you what the perfect vacation is for you and your traveling party, because they don’t know where your values lie in each of these categories. As you were reading this, you likely saw some things that resonated with you while others didn’t, and that’s the whole point!
Working with a Travel Agent who has traveled extensively, networks with other Travel Agents daily, does trainings that cover the details, and who wants to take the time to get to know you well and learn where your values are is the best way to find a good fit!