United Kingdom Vaccine Requirements & What Vaccinations Are Recommended?

The third most popular international destination for American travelers (after Canada), and the first European destination on the list, the United Kingdom is made up of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and is known for its royal family, cultural contributions from Shakespeare to The Beatles, and iconic landmarks including Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Stonehenge, and modern feats like the London Eye. The country is also renowned for its elite education institutions, including Oxford and Cambridge, its stunning natural landscapes, and its passion for sports from soccer to rugby to cricket.

If you’re planning a trip to across the pond, it’s important to know what vaccinations are recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for travel to this destination. (Be sure to visit your doctor at least a month prior to your trip to get any vaccines or medicines you may need.)

Recommended vaccines for travel to the United Kingdom

As of November 2023, here are the current CDC guidelines:

Routine vaccinations

Vaccines the CDC recommends prior to every trip include those for chickenpox (varicella), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP), flu (influenza), Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), polio, and shingles.

COVID-19

COVID-19 is a highly contagious viral respiratory infection. It spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets or small particles containing the virus, which can then enter through the eyes, nose, or mouth of an uninfected person (or contaminate surfaces, in some cases).

For everyone who is eligible, the CDC also recommends being up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection that is caused by the hepatitis A virus. It is primarily spread when an uninfected person consumes food or water that has been contaminated by the feces of an infected person, or when an infected person uses dirty hands to prepare food.

This vaccine is recommended for most travelers and is particularly recommended for those who will be engaging in higher-risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas, or eating street food.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. It is spread when blood, semen, or another bodily fluid from someone who is infected enters the body of someone who is not infected, as can happen during sexual contact, sharing drug-injection equipment, or during birth from mother to baby.

The CDC recommends this vaccine for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 going to the United Kingdom, and notes that those 60 years old and up may get vaccinated prior to traveling to the United Kingdom.

Measles

Measles is a serious, highly contagious, airborne disease that can lead to a variety of complications, including death. It is spread when an uninfected person comes into contact with infected nasal or throat secretions (for example, from coughing or sneezing) or breathes the air that was breathed by someone with the condition.

The CDC recommends that infants 6 to 11 months old who are traveling internationally get one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before their trip. (The dose does not count as part of the routine childhood vaccination series.)

(Note that measles is also listed among the CDC’s “routine vaccinations” above.)

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease most often spread through the bite of an infected, or “rabid,” animal. It infects the central nervous system in mammals, causing disease in the brain and, ultimately, death.

The CDC notes that the United Kingdom is free of dog rabies but that the disease may still be present in wildlife species (especially bats). The organization recommends rabies vaccination prior to a trip to the United Kingdom only for those who will be working directly with wildlife on their trip, such as veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers who will be working with specimens from mammals.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)

Tick-borne encephalitis is a viral infectious disease that affects the central nervous system. It is transmitted to humans by the bite of infected ticks and is present in many parts of Europe and Asia. The sickness often occurs in two phases, with symptoms of the first phase including fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and nausea, and the second phase involving the neurological system with symptoms of meningitis (inflammation of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord) or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).

TBE has been found in specific areas in the United Kingdom, with three probable or confirmed human cases in England since 2019 and one in Scotland in 2022, plus infected ticks found in Thetford Forest, Hampshire/Dorset border, New Forest, and New Yorkshire Moors.

The CDC recommends the TBE vaccine for people who are “traveling to a TBE-endemic area and will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.”

Last-minute reminders

Prior to any travel to the United Kingdom, be sure to check the official CDC Traveler’s Health page, as vaccination recommendations may have been updated since the publication of this article.

As you prepare to delve into the UK’s rich history and culture, from the bustling streets of London to the serene landscapes of Scotland, ensure your health is well protected. With the right vaccinations, you can safely enjoy everything from exploring historic castles and museums to experiencing the vibrant local cuisine and sports events. Remember, staying informed and vaccinated is key to a worry-free and enriching travel experience.

Disclaimer of Medical Advice: This information does not constitute medical advice or recommendation of any kind, and you should not rely on any information contained in such posts or comments to replace consultations with your qualified healthcare professionals to meet your individual needs.

Southwest Airlines Raises Drink Prices to ‘Keep Fares Low’

Drinkers who fly Southwest Airlines might notice a $1 to $2 difference next time they’re on a flight.

The Dallas-based airline raised its prices for alcoholic drinks served during flights, the company told TravelAwaits in a statement on Friday.

Southwest spokeswoman Laura Swift explained in an email that the reason the airline raised the prices for the first time since 2018 was to “keep fares low.”

“Upon review, we made the decision to implement a modest change to the pricing of our alcoholic beverages which went into effect on Nov. 15,” Swift said.

According to Southwest’s menu, the only beer affected by the price adjustment was Miller Lite, which went from $6 to $7, but the price of a glass of wine, cocktail, and hard seltzer increased by $2.

Compared to other airlines, Southwest’s prices are either equal to or less than alcoholic beverages sold by United Airlines, Delta Airlines, and American Airlines.

Swift added that non-alcoholic beverages and snacks are still complimentary during flights.

Christmas In Boulder, Colorado: 8 Top Events to Check Out

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Christmas is quickly approaching, and with it, all the many holiday events that mark the occasion. Here I will highlight the eight best Christmas events in Boulder, Colorado. From Santa visits, craft fairs, and musical festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

1. Switch On The Holidays

Events like this are becoming more and more popular and with good reason. It doesn’t quite feel like Christmas until I’ve attended this traditional event, where all of the holiday lights downtown are turned on for the first time of the season. Gather near the Civic Area at the Pearl Street Mall on November 19 to take part in the joyous countdown to the “switching on of the holidays.” Stick around to see members of Boulder Ballet dance and hear members of the Boulder Chorale sing. Rumor has it that Mr. And Mrs. Claus, along with their friend Freezie, will be there too.

2. Homes For The Holidays Tour

Organized by Historic Boulder Preservation in Action, this 1-day event has been going on for nearly 40 years. For $40, you can tour the neighborhoods of Mapleton Hill and Whittier. On December 2, take a tour of transformed carriage houses and accessory dwelling units (ADU), both historic and contemporary. You are able to tour at your own pace and admire the festive décor at each home.

3. Freezie Fest

Perhaps the name says it all. This is a celebration of winter and all things snowmen! Freezie Fest is another 1-day event on December 9 from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. at the Pearl Street Mall. Come join the fun and enjoy free train rides, visits with Santa, and all sorts of arts, crafts, and reindeer games. There is also a find Freezie (a snowman) contest. Search for him at various downtown Boulder businesses and you could win a $25 or $50 gift card.

4. Winter Fest At Chautauqua Park

This annual weekend festival is held at beautiful Chautauqua Park. There are a variety of free and paid activities, including horse-drawn carriage rides, complete with cozy blankets and hot chocolate; a tree lighting ceremony; a festive market; and visits to Santa’s cottage. You can purchase day passes for the event. Get into the holiday season, do some gift shopping, and enjoy the beautiful grounds at Chautauqua Park.

5. Lights Of December Parade

Who doesn’t love a parade? Taking place on December 2 at 6 p.m., the Lights of December Parade will be full of floats decked out in their Christmas best. Floats are made by business owners, churches, and community members. Enjoy the music of marching bands as they play holiday favorites and stay for the grand finale — a visit from jolly St. Nick. The parade starts at 15th and Walnut Streets and will head west to Broadway.

6. University Of Colorado Holiday Festival

Next to the switching of the lights on Pearl Street, the next thing that makes me know it is Christmas in Colorado is music — lots and lots of Christmas music. This annual musical event takes place at Macky Auditorium on the CU campus. From December 8–10,you will have the opportunity to enjoy student choirs, bands, and orchestras playing in the festive setting of twinkling lights and seasonal greenery within the auditorium. Get into the holiday spirit with a winter concert of holiday favorites and maybe even some new delights.

7. Holiday Faire At Unity Of Boulder

It wouldn’t be the holidays if there weren’t some craft fairs to visit and seek out unique gifts for your loved ones. The Holiday Faire at Unity of Boulder is just the event. From December 3–10, this fair will have 50 vendors selling handmade and metaphysical gifts. As you browse, you may enjoy complimentary hot cocoa, cider, and holiday cookies. There will also be Christmas carolers to put you in the holiday spirit.

8. Holiday High Tea

Fancy some fancy tea? Boulder is known for its tea (hello Celestial Seasonings headquarters), and during the holidays, teahouses go all out. There are a few teahouses you can visit to have an extra special holiday high tea. The Hotel Boulderado offers a seasonal tea service complete with a three-tier tower of fresh pastries, a savory buffet of sandwiches, and of course, tea — or even prosecco. Enjoy your high tea while listening to live jazz music or Christmas carolers. Be sure to make reservations as spots are filling up quickly.

However you like to get into the holiday season, Boulder has an option for you. Along with these specific events, another favorite, easy, and free thing I love to do at Christmas time is drive around many of Boulder’s neighborhoods in the evenings. Every year, people go all out with their Christmas lights and decorations. It is a sheer delight to see each neighborhood all lit up!

Passenger Ordered to Pay American Airlines $39,000 for Threatening Flight Crew

An Arizona federal court ordered a Hawaiian woman to pay thousands of dollars in restitution to American Airlines for disrupting a flight. According to Tuesday’s announcement, Cayla Farris was ordered to pay the airline $38,952 for delay-related costs due to her actions on a flight last February.

In the announcement, the Justice Department explained that the 29-year-old Farris “Farris used profanity and threatened the flight crew and passengers onboard” during a flight from Phenix to Honolulu. As a result, the crew could not continue their duties, the captain ultimately had to turn the plane around, and several passengers had to be re-routed to Hawaii.

Farris, who pleaded guilty to Interference with a Flight Crew Member in September, was also sentenced to time served of 3.6 months in prison and three years of supervised release, during which she will not be permitted to travel by commercial air without prior approval.

According to the data, unruly behavior aboard planes peaked in 2021 with 5,973 reports filed and set a record for fine, but that number dropped 59% in 2022. The FAA linked the 2021 surge to COVID-19 policies and face mask enforcement.

According to data collected by the Federal Aviation Administration, there were 391 incidents of unruly passengers in February 2022 and an estimated 2,455 throughout the year.

14 Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Mexico And The Caribbean

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

There’s traveling, and then there’s vacationing. If you’re after a vacation, an all-inclusive resort in Mexico or the Caribbean belongs at the top of your list. Having been around the world, I can say without hesitation that my family’s vacations in Mexico (Cabo and Riviera Maya) and the Caribbean (Jamaica, St. Thomas, and the Bahamas) have delivered on all the things you’re after when you book an all-inclusive: sand, sun, gorgeous rooms and suites with air conditioning, delicious and abundant food, staff who go above and beyond, and onsite activities galore.

Dreaming of or actively planning your getaway? Become inspired by our readers’ picks for the best all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. Check out the eight best Mexican resorts for families and the best resorts in the Caribbean for snorkeling.

Looking for resorts with a family-friendly atmosphere? Read our top picks for family-friendly resorts in Cancun.

Top 14 All-Inclusive Resorts In Mexico And The Caribbean

Royal Uno All Inclusive Resort & Spa – Cancun, Mexico (Winner)
Hotel Xcaret Mexico – Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Villa Del Arco Beach Resort & Spa – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Sandals South Coast – White House, Jamaica
Moon Palace Jamaica – Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Excellence Playa Mujeres – Playa Mujeres, Mexico
Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Club Med Punta Cana – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
The Caves Hotel – Negril, Jamaica
Azul Beach Resort – Cancun, Mexico
Divi & Tamarijn Aruba – Oranjestad, Aruba
Barceló Maya Grand Resort – Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Hotel Xcaret Arte – Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Grand Velas Los Cabos – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Mexico And The Caribbean

If you prefer a quick summary then check out this slideshow or read on to learn about each of the resorts in more detail:

1. Royal Uno All Inclusive Resort & Spa (Winner)

Cancun, Mexico

Royal Uno exterior
Photo credit: Royal Uno All Inclusive Resort & Spa

The super family-friendly Royal Uno All Inclusive Resort & Spa in Cancun is the best all-inclusive resort for anyone looking for “endless fun” — and fast. The resort is just a 20-minute drive from Cancun International Airport. All the rooms and suites offer an ocean view, or you can upgrade to beachfront — with options for a private whirlpool, private plunge pools, and terraces, too. This resort reminds me of one oceanfront resort I visited not too long ago.

Amenities include the Alea Spa, a kid-friendly water park, and plenty of fitness and family-fun options between the fitness center and Cancool game room. There’s also a gift shop, a kids club, and seven dining options, including swanky Palotinte for Mexican, Miamare for Italian, and Aora for Asian, plus Kukul Cantina steakhouse; a casual snack shack; and the Star Bar.

Don’t Miss: The gorgeous and sprawling sun deck, a cocktail lounge with plunge pools overlooking the ocean, also known as “the coolest place to be at Royal Uno.”

2. Hotel Xcaret Mexico

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

The unique layout of the Hotel Xcaret Mexico
Photo credit: Leonard Zhukovsky / Shutterstock.com

Xcaret is a big name in Mexico, and for good reason. The company’s Riviera Maya adventure parks are known for their water slides, zip lines, rafting and floating, cenotes (limestone sinkholes with pool-like openings), and cultural programming. As of 2017, Grupo Xcaret is offering its finest at all-inclusive resorts, too.

Its flagship all-inclusive resort, Hotel Xcaret Mexico, is an all-suite, family-friendly option that includes access to its parks. Like at all Mexico all-inclusive resorts, the suites are situated so you can jump into the private pools directly from your terrace, or book in Casa Fuego, the resort’s dedicated adults-only resort area, which boasts its own restaurant, too.

Dining options are plentiful, with 11 restaurants, including ultra-modern Ha’ (led by Michelin-starred Mexican Chef Carlos Gaytán), romantic cave dining at Las Cuevas, and an entirely vegan menu at Bio. Note that some restaurant reservations are upgrades that come at an additional cost above and beyond Xcaret’s All-Fun Inclusive.

Don’t Miss: Xcaret Xailing — the resorts’ All-Fun Included sailings to Isla Mujeres on a Xcaret ferry or catamaran.

3. Villa Del Arco Beach Resort & Spa

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Villa Del Arco Beach Resort & Spa pool
Photo credit: Villa Del Arco Beach Resort & Spa

The five-star Villa del Arco Beach Resort & Spa is a family-friendly all-inclusive resort that emphasizes elegance in its suites, landscaping, and dining options. Make the most of included kayaking and paddle boarding, sand and water volleyball, and, if you check in with littles, the extensive lineup of kids’ programming. In addition, guests have access to theme night performances at neighboring Villa del Palmar.

Villa del Arco is probably foodies’ best all-inclusive resort as it has five restaurants included in their all-inclusive package, most of which offer open-air seating with ocean or pool views. Suites boast kitchens and terraces. There’s even a two-bedroom option with a counter-height bar and full-on dining room, perfect for the family vacationing together.

To conclude, people who have limited vacation time look forward to all-inclusive packages as a way to maximize their time off. They don’t want to plan and coordinate every aspect of their vacation. That’s why all-inclusive resorts in Mexico attract all kinds of travelers, from families and couples to groups of friends and solo travelers.

Don’t Miss: Treat yourself to a reservation at the award-winning (and dazzling — think marble everything) Desert Spa.

4. Sandals South Coast

White House, Jamaica

Love water? Then this is your all-inclusive resort. Sandals designed this entire resort, where you’ll be treated to 2 miles of white sand and three beachfront swimming pools, to “embrace the coastline.” Rooms and suites include overwater honeymoon bungalows with big South Pacific (think Fiji or Bora Bora) vibes as well as butler suites with private-pool “sanctuaries.”

At South Coast, PADI-certified scuba diving is included, as are kayaking, waterskiing, glass-bottom boat rides, and an array of leisure sports and fitness-center activities. Choose from nine restaurants that feature the flavors of Paris, Asia, and the Mediterranean as well as seafood and Caribbean specialties.

Don’t Miss: Your chance to try Appleton Estate Jamaican rum — distilled on the island since 1749 and served at South Coast’s swim-up and sit-down bars and restaurants.

5. Moon Palace Jamaica

Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Moon Palace resort on Jamaica's Turtle Beach — Moon Palace resort on Jamaica’s Turtle Beach
Photo credit: byvalet / Shutterstock.com

Moon Palace Jamaica is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean. It elevates the family-friendly, all-inclusive experience to new heights with its entertainment, activity, and culinary offerings. Think dedicated children’s programming in The Playroom and at The Dreamery (exclusive to Palace Resorts), an “ultra-modern” arcade and video game lounge, and non-motorized watersports like scuba diving included.

You’ll have five restaurants and six bars to choose from or treat yourself to room service, available 24/7. This all-inclusive resort even boasts a menu of baby purees “prepared with the healthiest ingredients” and delivered directly to your room or suite.

Don’t Miss: A trip outside the resort to climb Dunn’s River Falls (one of the most enjoyable things my family did in Jamaica!), a mere 10-minute drive from the property.

6. Excellence Playa Mujeres

Excellence Playa Mujeres main lobby
Photo credit: Excellence Resorts

Playa Mujeres, Mexico

This all-suite, “adult-only playground” just 35 minutes north of Cancun International Airport (and directly across from Isla Mujeres), promises “a sprawling and serene tropical escape.” Swing in a hammock hung over one of the property’s river-style pools, choose from over a dozen beautifully modern restaurants, and stay active in mind and body with a Spanish, cooking, or dance lesson, all included during your stay.

Note that The Excellence Collection prioritizes its Excellence Club members with exclusive pools, hot tubs, and bars as well as dedicated suites throughout the resort (and at its four other properties), so it’s worth considering an Excellence Club reservation when you book.

Don’t Miss: A round of golf at nearby and highly recommended Playa Mujeres Golf Club or Puerto Cancun Golf Course, known for its “quirky and unusual layout” and unique situation in a 180-acre eco-reserve.

7. Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Adult-only Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana is an architectural delight that also affords guests access to almost half a mile of “palm-studded white sand beach.” This Hyatt property in Punta Cana features six pools and ample lounging areas. Rooms and suites feature furnished balconies or terraces, 24/7 room and concierge services, and luxurious soaking tubs.

Choose from eight restaurants that range from the super-casual Barefoot Grill and open-air Olio to formal Bordeaux for French fare (and a wine cellar!), plus 11 bars (note that two are for Preferred Club members only, so book accordingly).

Don’t Miss: Drinking and/or dancing the night away at Eclipse Nightclub, which features an outdoor terrace, dance floor, and DJ-spinning tracks from 10:30 p.m.–2 a.m.

8. Club Med Punta Cana

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The expansive grounds of Club Med Punta Cana
Photo credit: David A Litman / Shutterstock.com

Club Med Punta Cana promises “unforgettable family escapes” — with the environment in mind. You’ll love your room or suite, dining, and experiences much more knowing over 20 percent of the resort’s electricity comes from solar panels integrated into the landscaping.

This summer, this all-inclusive resort in Dominican Republic is unveiling 80+ newly renovated, two-bedroom accommodations perfect for family and friend groups. Dine at three restaurants: Hispaniola, a beach bistro with wine cellar; Samana, world fusion with a raw bar; and Indigo, surf and turf plus vegetarian options with expansive ocean views.

Don’t Miss: The Circus School by Club Med experience — a totally unique playground where you can climb up silks, fly on a trapeze, learn to juggle, and even take part in a circus show. Alternatively, check into the L’Occitane spa for pampering inspired by the best of Marseille and the south of France.

9. The Caves Hotel

Negril, Jamaica

The Caves, one of Island Outpost’s four unique properties, is a “natural preserve turned traveler’s nirvana.” Built atop and into a striking limestone headland, the hotel has just 12 “rooms” (all suites, cottages, and villas defined by their boho beachy vibes) and accommodates a maximum of 24 guests, meaning a truly intimate experience for every vacationer.

While this is a waterfront hotel, note that it is not on a sandy beach, meaning you might want to venture off-property for your sand and sun. While at the resort, enjoy three restaurants, romantic private-dining offerings, an intimate saltwater pool and Jacuzzi, and watersports like scuba diving, cave diving and snorkeling orchestrated by The Caves’s dedicated water sports director. The Caves also has an AVEDA spa.

Don’t Miss: Drinks at Blackwell Rum Bar, which is built into the caves the hotel is named for.

10. Azul Beach Resort

Cancun, Mexico

Jacuzzi suite at Azul Beach Resort
Photo credit: Azul Beach Resort

This all-ages all-inclusive promises something for every member of the family, with offerings from toddler activities and a kids’ spa menu to fine dining at award-winning adult-only “dining concept” Le Chique (recognized by S.Pellegrino & Aqua Panna as one of the 50 best restaurants in Latin America 2022).

Expect sleek and modern design throughout with pops of blue (azul) that nod to the sea. The property features eight restaurants, eight bars, half a dozen pools, and a host of suite layouts (including some with soaking tubs and/or private hot tubs) to choose from. Spend a day at the beach catching rays on an ample “Bali bed,” enjoy live entertainment put on around the property, or try a signature Mexican tequila tasting.

Don’t Miss: An evening beach bonfire built just for you and yours.

11. Divi & Tamarijn Aruba

Oranjestad, Aruba

Divi oceanfront lanai
Photo credit: Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives

If you equate vacation with long walks on the beach, Divi & Tamarijn Aruba all-inclusive resort deserves your consideration. Wake to a mile and a half of powdery white sand awaiting you each morning. The resort also has four pools, a private golf course, 10 all-inclusive restaurants, two optional (upgraded) fine-dining experiences, and half a dozen bars.

Note that Divi and Tamarijn are technically distinct properties, though guests at either have access to both. Divi is the resort’s take on luxe accommodations, while Tamarijn is its family-friendly offering. Whichever you choose, you can enjoy your vacation knowing Divi & Tamarijn is recognized as one of “the most eco-friendly and community-friendly resorts in the hospitality industry.”

Don’t Miss: Drinks at the micro-mini open-air Bunker Bar, a former WWII bunker (circa 1941).

12. Barceló Maya Grand Resort

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

This six-hotel resort invites you to create your dream vacation by checking into the perfect room — whether it’s an adult-only suite or a family-friendly swim-up — then enjoying amenities galore. All told, the property has more than two dozen restaurants and 50 swimming pools, including the region’s largest infinity pool at adult-only hotel Barceló Maya Riviera.

Book at one of the Premium Level hotels for expedited check-in, access to a premium lounge, discounts at the spa, salon, and gift shop, and priority reservations at select restaurants.

Note that access to other hotels’ restaurants and amenities is based on your booking, so be sure to read the fine print!

Don’t Miss: Family-friendly escape rooms and bowling lanes (booked at an additional cost), perfect when any or everyone needs to get out of the Sun!

13. Hotel Xcaret Arte

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Hotel Xcaret Arte is Grupo Xcaret’s answer to the adult-only (16+) all-inclusive experience. Like Hotel Xcaret Mexico, it offers an “All-Fun Inclusive” experience (detailed above) but in a decidedly elegant atmosphere.

In addition to its eight pools and 10 restaurants, it’s also home to textile, painting, pottery, and Latin dance workshops that invite you to be inspired by your experience on the Yucatan. The all-suite accommodations feature stunning views and thoughtful details that pay homage to Mexico’s diverse artists.

Don’t Miss: Extra pampering at Muluk Spa, a “mystic sanctuary” of stone and water.

14. Grand Velas Los Cabos

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Miramar Bar at Grand Velas Los Cabos
Photo credit: C/O Velas Resorts

Grand Velas Los Cabos is all about luxury, from its seven gourmet restaurants to its suites, including the two-story adult-only Wellness Ocean View. Whichever accommodations you choose (some are family-friendly, and kids’ activities and programming are offered), caffeinate for your day with personal in-room Nespresso coffee makers.

Grand Velas helps its guests vacation sustainably. Enjoy the beauty of its white sand and lush grounds knowing the resort offers avocado seed straws, is proud of its composting program, and promises to keep its beaches safe for nesting turtles.

Don’t Miss: Sundowners at open-air Miramar Bar, where the reds and oranges of the bonfires and plush lounge furniture compliment the sky.

FAQs

When to Book Your All-Inclusive Resort Getaway To Mexico or the Caribbean?

As a general rule, destinations like Mexico and the Caribbean can really vary in price depending on the season. The least expensive time to travel is from September to December, excluding holidays. Christmas and New Year’s Eve are the most expensive time for booking all-inclusive resorts. When it comes to weather, most tropical destinations are warm to hot year-round though, but some places like the Bahamas can be chill in winter.

Do I Need to Tip at an All-Inclusive Resorts?

Yes, it is certainly encouraged at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the resorts in the Caribbean even though it is still an optional gesture. However, you don’t need to tip every time and the people you’ll tip are wait staff, bartenders, room attendants, tour guides, etc. Tipping encourages the resort’s staff to take your service to the next level. Just remember, before you tip anyone, double-check if your tips will be accepted.

What to Consider When Choosing an All-Inclusive Resort?

You should consider the price, the reviews, and additional costs above all. Price can vary from a couple of hundred dollars a day to well over $1000 depending on the level of luxury you want. For reviews, it is best to take a look on TripAdvisor to see detailed guest reviews. When it comes to add-ons, always look for extra costs for airport transfers, spas, water sports like scuba diving, premium drinks, and special event dining.

Why Are All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico So Affordable?

It is mainly because it’s a country with a lower cost of living. Food, supplies, and labor costs are typically lower in these countries, which helps to keep operating expenses down. Therefore, all-inclusive resorts can sell their services at a much lower price than resorts in other parts of the world. With that said, remember that the quality of the accommodations and amenities at all-inclusive resorts can vary greatly.

Is All-Inclusive Worth It in the Caribbean Islands?

Yes, it is worth it to go to resorts in the Caribbean, as long as you do your plan ahead. Do your homework, know what is included and what activities you want to enjoy in the Caribbean all-inclusive resort of your choice. All-inclusive doesn’t mean the same thing for everybody and, in that sense, some all-inclusive Caribbean resorts will be worth the money, while others will not. If you’re an experienced traveler, you would know by now that with some resorts, the truth is in the fine print.

8 Top Literary Destinations Around The World

Some served as settings for great written works, others hosted renowned authors while they worked on their masterpieces. They might house stunning libraries or celebrate written word traditions with special events. If you’re a true bibliophile, consider adding these eight literary destinations to your travel list!

1. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Die-hard book fans will find themselves right at home in Buenos Aires. The Argentinian capital boasts more bookshops — nearly 700 — than any other city on the planet. El Ateneo Grand Splendid, converted from an old theater, is routinely named one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. The city also organizes an enormous annual book fair, bringing in more than a million readers each year.

Trinity College Library in Dublin
Photo credit: Vincent Isore/IP3 / Getty Images

2. Dublin, Ireland

Ireland’s capital — with its long storytelling tradition and definite love of craic — produced a total of four literary Nobel laureates: W.B. Yeats, George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett, and Seamus Heane. You can get to know the men and their works over a few pints during a literary pub crawl. Pay homage to another favorite Dublin son in Merrion Square, where a colorful statue of playwright Oscar Wilde lounges across a large boulder. And make time for a stop at Trinity College to peek at the ancient Book of Kells, the incredible gospel books illustrated by Celtic monks.

3. Edinburgh, Scotland

Many famous authors have made Edinburgh their home, from Sir Walter Scott to J.K. Rowling — who dreamt up Harry Potter. You can learn more about them all at the city’s Writers’ Museum. Edinburgh also hosts festivals and celebrations throughout the year focused on the written word. Perhaps the most famous — Burns Night — is held January 25. Scots host traditional dinners and toast Scotland’s most beloved poet, Robert Burns.

4. Iowa City, Iowa

It might be a small Midwestern town, but Iowa City punches above its height when it comes to literary tradition, thanks to the University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Established in 1936, 17 Pulitzer Prize winners have completed the prestigious creative writing program. Star alums include Kurt Vonnegut and Flannery O’Connor. Even UNESCO took notice, naming Iowa City one of its “Cities of Literature” in 2008.

5. Istanbul, Turkey

In Istanbul, I was captivated by the history, the daily calls to prayer, and all the books! Used bookshops, or sahaflar, are all over the city. One of the oldest and most popular is Sahaflar Çarşısı, not too far from the iconic Grand Bazaar. Writers have gathered here since the 16th century, and today, it’s still a great place to pick up older tomes and rare finds. The sultans loved their books, too; make sure to wander through the Iznik-tile-laden library if you visit Topkapı Palace.

A man in police costume stands outside the Sherlock Holmes Museum
Photo credit: Dan Kitwood / Getty Images

6. London, England

London’s long been known as a star of the global literary scene. Shakespeare’s original Globe Theatre was built here in 1599 but destroyed by a fire 14 years later. Today, audiences from around the world visit the new Globe, a replica of the historic spot. The Sherlock Holmes Museum on Baker Street is dedicated to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective. You can step through the space where Dickens wrote Oliver Twist at the museum bearing his name on Doughty Street and also check out the Poet’s Corner in Westminster Abbey, where many of London’s most loved authors are buried or memorialized.

7. New York City, New York

Many critically acclaimed American authors lived and wrote in New York City — and still do! From James Baldwin and Jack Kerouac to Tennessee Williams and Truman Capote, there’s no shortage of literary glitterati associated with New York. You can still grab a drink at the White Horse Tavern, frequented by Hunter S. Thompson and where poet Dylan Thomas spent his last night alive. The Chelsea and Algonquin Hotels both played host to author meet-ups and still retain a funky feel. For the ultimate glam bookstore experience, head to Albertine. Housed inside the Payne Whitney mansion, here you’ll find books in both French and English.

8. Paris, France

Last but certainly not least, the City of Light has had its share of learned luminaries. A century ago, Paris enjoyed a writing heyday when expats, including Ernest Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, and F. Scott Fitzgerald, all flew to France for its creative and bohemian salon scene. Retrace their steps and pick up some of their work at Shakespeare & Co. — the Left Bank’s legendary bookshop.

Building a trip based on books — and the people who penned them — can be a terrific way to really get to know the culture, people, and traditions of a place. While they make a great take-home gift or souvenir, make sure to do your reading beforehand, too. Engaging in just a bit of research about a city is one of the best ways to build excitement and boost your confidence as you head to a new destination!