You’ve seen their enticing adds on television and the Internet beckoning you to enjoy stylish accommodations, sumptuous buffets, endless activities and top-notch facilities.

The last decade or so has seen a proliferation of all-inclusive resorts catering to individuals, couples, families and a variety of lifestyles. Although they are more common across the Caribbean, in recent years Costa Rica has joined in the boom and now offers several all-inclusive resorts along its sun swept Pacific coast. What are the advantages and disadvantages of all-inclusive resorts? Are they really worth their cost? And, more importantly, are they a good choice for your Costa Rica vacation?

A resort will have a larger variety of options, increased activities and programming, over a hotel. Still, it’s not necessarily the cheaper option; it all depends on your lifestyle and whether or not you plan to take advantage of all the activities and facilities offered.

If you are going to a destination where the cost of meals, liquor and activities are expensive, an all-inclusive might end up saving you money. It is also a good choice if you are looking for a no-hassles vacation where you don't have to worry about finding restaurants, setting up activities or tipping. If you drink a lot, eat a lot and don't want to spend a lot of money doing so, then all-inclusive is the way to go.

If, on the other hand, you’re searching for a vacation filled with adventure, variety and don't mind looking for restaurants, meeting new people and discovering new places - then a traditional hotel might be the best choice.
The following is a list of some of the pros and cons of all-inclusive resorts.

Pros:

• You know up front how much money you're going to spend. All meals, entertainment, activities and sports, as well as accommodations, are generally included in one price. There are no hidden fees and you don't have to worry about tipping. You can leave the cash behind, just sit back and enjoy your vacation.
• No surprises. You pretty much know what to expect, no matter which one you choose.
• You can often find substantially reduced airfare by getting an all-inclusive package.

Cons:

• One of the main drawbacks of all-inclusives is the lack of variety. Some people get a bit weary of dining in the same restaurant night after night.
• You miss meeting all the local people and culture.
• All-inclusive resorts are sometimes accused of giving little back to the local economy. Many people who visit these resorts never leave to sample any local cuisine or culture or explore the country. This adversely affects local transportation, shops and activity providers.

The golden rule with all-inclusive resorts is to spend plenty of time doing your research to make sure you choose one that's right for you and your family. Resorts do vary - some are designed for couples, some for singles and some for families. Check to see what's included in the price, so you don't incur any additional costs that you're not prepared to pay for.

The following is a short list of Costa Rica’s premier all-inclusive resorts:

Fiesta Premier All inclusive Resort
www.fiestapremier.com

The hotel offers spectacular ocean views, friendly service, and luxurious facilities. The resort is just 20 minutes away from Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia with access to the area’s main tourist attractions and an ideal spot for world-class fishing.

Paradisus Melia Playa Conchal
www.paradisusplayaconchal.com

This majestic resort is perfectly situated for explorations of Costa Rica’s spectacular Northwest coast and natural attractions.

Hotel Barceló Tambor
www.barcelocostarica.com

The Resort is situated on Bahía Ballena, in the Puntarenas province on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Located on Tambor beach, surrounded by gardens with an enormous richness in flora and fauna, Barcelo Tambor is only 3.5 hours by road and ferry from San José, or 20 minutes by air.

Barcelo Playa Langosta Resort
www.barcelocostarica.com

Located right on the beach at the Pacific Coast next to the Tamarindo beach area.

Hotel and Casino Barceló Amapola, Jacó Beach
www.barcelocostarica.com

Located less than a mile from Jaco near quality restaurants and entertainment centers.

Hotel Fiesta Resort Puntarenas
Website not available

Located a one-hour scenic drive away from the San José International Airport and a two-hour drive away from the Liberia International Airport or 90 minutes from the Capital City of San José this resort is situated on one of Costa Rica's most stunning dark sand beaches.

Occidental Papagayo
www.occidentalhotels.com

The resort is situated directly on the blue waters of Papagayo Gulf’s Manzanillo Beach, just a 25-minute drive from Daniel Oduber International Airport.