$22,000 per week? All-inclusive resorts go big to win over luxury travelers

All-inclusive hotels are making a big play for luxury travelers.

In the wake of the pandemic, demand for all-inclusive resorts skyrocketed, according to a report by JLL Research Hotels & Hospitality. Travelers — suddenly and en masse — wanted vacations that were stress-free and easy to plan, ideally with a wellness component, according to the report.  

It was then that travelers discovered that the all-inclusive resorts of the past — known for bottom-shelf booze and quantity-over-quality dining — had changed.

Much of the sector had gone luxe.

As of 2022, the percentage of "upper upscale" and luxury resorts in the Dominican Republic was 47% of total all-inclusive resort supply — up from 31% in 1990, according to JLL. The numbers are even higher in Mexico, where upper upscale and luxury all-inclusive resorts accounted for more than half (55%) of its all-inclusive resorts in 2022.

Rates at all-inclusive resorts— once known as a relatively inexpensive form of travel — are up too, rapidly surpassing 2019 levels, according to JLL.

Marriott and Hilton have also expanded into the sector, under brands travelers may not normally associate with all-inclusive resorts— from DoubleTree to Westin and The Luxury Collection.

Resort operators have upgraded the all-inclusive experience with everything from grander suites to special resort privileges.

Guests at the beachfront Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort Spa & Casino in the Dominican Republic can opt for a "Unique" room at the resort, which comes with an upgraded room, personal butler and access to a private beach. 

"We are seeing more and more guests traveling for a slow, unplugged experience with an upscale twist," said Karina Arguello, the resort's commercial director. "In addition to elements