Why you should consider an all-inclusive resort for a stress-free vacation
PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic – Upon landing in Punta Cana, a private driver from Excellence El Carmen greeted me and took me straight from the airport. After an hour, I was welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine in one hand and a refreshing towel in the other. It was evident from the start that this trip was all about unwinding.
This luxurious way of unwinding is exactly what is attracting Gen Z travelers to all-inclusive resorts in significant numbers. Melanie Fish, the vice president of Global Public Relations for Expedia Group, the parent company of Hotels.com, shared with YSL News, “2025 marks the beginning of a new era in all-inclusives, largely influenced by Gen Z.” This younger generation is no longer satisfied with just hanging out by a buffet; they’re looking for immersive, upscale experiences that provide the comforts of home – without the complicated budgeting during their getaway.
“There’s no math involved,” Fish chuckled. “It’s a vacation that doesn’t require calculations.”
During my visit to the adults-only resort Excellence El Carmen, I quickly understood the truth behind Fish’s remark. Throughout my entire stay, I never had to think about how much anything cost. Everything from ten dining choices to poolside service and 24-hour room service was included. Fish explained that this aspect of convenience and value is particularly appealing to Gen Z travelers, although it resonates with all types of holidaymakers.
A survey conducted by Hotels.com found that 42% of Gen Z people declared an all-inclusive resort as their top choice for accommodations. Here’s what my experience was like at this luxurious all-inclusive resort:
All-inclusive resorts provide more than just a getaway
The all-inclusive resort experience has transformed beyond its once simplistic image. The old notion of “all-inclusive” is now far removed from the reality of long buffet lines and unlimited drink service by the pool. Instead, the dining at Excellence El Carmen involved dishes that were aromatic, flavorful, and meticulously prepared, whereas traditional buffet options felt somewhat bland in comparison.
Modern all-inclusive resorts cater to a wider range of guests, adapting to diverse preferences.
Fish pointed out that, “We’re now seeing more all-inclusives target specific markets – luxury travelers, vegetarians, health enthusiasts, and more.” Resorts like Excellence El Carmen and its associated establishments (the adults-only Excellence Punta Cana and family-friendly Finest Punta Cana) are nowadays offering unique experiences for various interests. Be it gourmet dining, fitness programs, or wellness activities, there’s an all-inclusive resort designed for every traveler.
Fish emphasized that the top three reasons Gen Z prefers this all-inclusive experience are low stress (41%), convenient booking (39%), and the perception that all-inclusive stays are inherently luxurious (38%). For many young adventurers, it means they can skip the exhaustive research for restaurants, hotels, or activities – they can simply book their getaway and let the resort manage the details.
I stayed in the Two-Story Rooftop Terrace Suite with Plunge Pool, located in what the resort calls the Excellence Club. This exclusive category features premium alcohol stocked in the room, access to special sections, and an additional restaurant open for breakfast and dinner. The five Excellence Resorts and two Finest Resorts provide the option to upgrade to The Excellence Club, while the couples-only Beloved in Playa Mujeres is entirely in one tier.
Throughout my visit, my wallet remained untouched until departure. I created a schedule to make the most of the resort’s amenities, yet whether I wanted to socialize with other visitors or relax beachside with a drink, there were always both options available to me.
In a conversation with Esperanza Alcántara, the lead concierge at Excellence El Carmen, she shared that many guests arrive with specific expectations, especially for special occasions like honeymoons or anniversaries.
“From the moment they step in, they inquire about available activities and the restaurants they can make reservations for,” Alcántara told YSL News. “Once they’re settled, it’s all about soaking up the sun, relaxing, and getting ready for an elegant dinner.”
Excellence El Carmen offers accessible rooms designed for those who need extra space and features such as assistance bars in the bathrooms. However, it’s important to check with a team member regarding the required heights and specifications when booking so adjustments can be made in advance. For instance, for guests requiring a wheelchair, accessible accommodations can be arranged.
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The Staff Enhance Your Stay
While your food, drinks, and accommodations are included at an all-inclusive resort, it’s crucial to remember to tip the staff.
In places like the Dominican Republic, resort workers typically earn wages below the U.S. minimum wage and depend on tips for a sustainable income. This is one reason that all-inclusive resorts haven’t gained the same popularity in the U.S. So, even if your getaway seems to be worry-free, be sure to express your gratitude by tipping the diligent staff.
A standout experience during my stay was the weekly Dominican Night at the Kitchen Table buffet. Every Tuesday, the resort showcases the rich Dominican culture with traditional food, lively music, and special festivities.
The warmth and friendliness of the staff at Excellence El Carmen was evident throughout my visit. I found that using Spanish with the employees helped build a stronger bond. Each staff member I interacted with, whether I revealed my journalist status or not, expressed genuine happiness in their work. Alcántara, a team member, shared her insights about what makes the resort special.
“It’s all about the service,” Alcántara mentioned. “Whenever we welcome new staff, I remind them that our success depends on how we treat each other and our guests. When our team is content, our visitors can sense it too.”
Experiencing the Local Culture at the Resort
Alcántara noted this event is particularly popular among returning visitors. “Many guests arrange their trips to arrive on a Tuesday and plan another Tuesday stay, so they don’t miss out on this experience,” she shared.
Events like this remind travelers that their experience is distinctively linked to the Dominican Republic, avoiding a generic resort atmosphere. “You can find a burger anywhere, but here we want you to genuinely taste, feel, and live the culture of our nation,” Alcántara added.
The Future of All-Inclusive Travel
The future of all-inclusive travel is looking bright and more diverse than ever. There has been a surge in options such as wellness retreats and eco-friendly resorts that give back to nature. As the industry grows, more resorts cater to specific preferences, offering both luxurious experiences and great value to travelers.
Ultimately, what draws people to all-inclusive vacations is simple: the peace of mind they offer.
As Fish highlighted, “When you know that everything’s already taken care of, you can easily relax and enjoy your time.” Whether you’re lounging on the beach, treating yourself to an exquisite meal, or partaking in a Dominican-themed evening, you can do so without worrying about the details.
For many travelers, this lack of worry is the ultimate luxury.
The writer of this article was granted access to the resort by Excellence El Carmen. YSL News retains editorial control over the content.
