(NAPSA)—“All-inclusive” vaca- tions are gaining favor as families try to stretch their budget while enjoying a memorable trip together. To avoid disappointment, it’s a good idea to ask some simple questions before booking anallinclusive family vacation. “When you consider an allinclusive vacation, remember that they are not all created equal,” says Julia Ryan, vice president, Travelers Advantage. “All-inclusive vacations gener- ally fall into one of three groups ranging from luxury to mid- range to economical travel. If you know what to ask up-front, you'll know which kind of trip you’re paying for and understand what’s included.” Six questions to ask before booking an all-inclusive family vacation: 1. Is your destination equipped to serve children? If so, is a Kids Club or similar daycare program provided as part of your package? Spending time in a Kids Club with children from all over the world can add a real international flavor to your child’s vacation. 2. Ask what water sports and activities are included. Are motorized water sports, like jet or water skiing, included? Find out how extensive the equipment is—it’s frustrating to look forward to an activity only to discover the equipment is always in use. Also ask if guided tours/excursions to interesting places near the resort are available, and whether there is an additional charge. 3. Is there a refrigerator in the room and, if so, is there a charge for using food and drink stored in All-inclusive packages can add up to big savingsfor families traveling together. it? Some resorts stock the fridge at no charge to the consumer—a nice touch. 4. Is the menu kid-friendly? Are meals served buffet style (so everyone can choose what they want while they go through the line) or a la carte and served by a waiter (which maybe better for parents with small children). 5. Ask if there are any charges that have to be paid once you are on the trip. For example: Do you have to buy a bracelet for unlimited drinks from the bar or do you have to pay for each drink? Are drinks only free at meals? Is babysitting included or offered at a minimal cost? Remember, on an all-inclusive vacation, you are not expected to tip. 6. How big is the room? Does it have a balcony? Can you get a suite or connecting rooms? To learn more, visit www.travel ersadvantage.com or call 1-800458-1028. Programslike Travelers Advantage (www.travelersadvantage.com or 1-800-458-1028) pass special savings onto its members so they can save money on air travel, cruises, car rental and hotel accommodations, as well as earn 5 percent cash back on reservations booked with preferred providers. A three-month trial Travelers Advantage membership can be enjoyed for only $1. The trial membership can be canceled at any time during the three-month trial period by calling toll free, and owing nothing further. Unless the membercalls to cancel, the membership will be extended automatically for an entire year at the $79.99 annual fee and automatically renewed annually upon expiration at the thencurrent annualfee, billed to a credit card account, without the member having to do anything further. Additionally, members maycall toll free to cancel at any time and receive a pro-rata refund of their current membershipfee.
