“All inclusive” sounds like a promise that you'll never reach for your wallet again — but in practice every hotel draws its own line between “free” and “extra”. Let's map out what AI and UAI almost always include, and what is traditionally billed separately.
AI means a buffet, local drinks and some activities. UAI adds a wider range and premium drinks. Spa, à la carte dining, imported alcohol, excursions and the in-room safe usually stay paid. The exact set is always in the hotel description, which opens from your booking.
01 / AIWhat “all inclusive” usually covers
The basic AI (All Inclusive) package is built around buffet dining: breakfast, lunch and dinner in the main restaurant, plus snacks and drinks during set hours. The bars typically pour local drinks — water, juices, soft drinks, draught beer and wine, and local spirits.
- Meals — buffet (breakfast/lunch/dinner), often with a daytime snack bar.
- Local drinks — soft drinks and locally produced alcohol during bar hours.
- Some activities — pool, sunbeds, daytime entertainment, sometimes non-motorised beach sports.
02 / UAIHow “ultra all inclusive” goes further
UAI (Ultra All Inclusive) means a wider range and premium drinks. It usually adds longer (sometimes round-the-clock) bar hours, branded imported alcohol, more dining outlets, and often complimentary access to some à la carte restaurants. But “ultra” differs from operator to operator, so trust the specific description rather than the label.
03 / ExtrasWhat usually stays paid
Even on UAI there are items the hotel almost always bills separately. That's normal: “all inclusive” covers the basics, while individual and premium services are charged on top. Keep a short mental list so nothing surprises you at the front desk.
- Spa & salon — massage, treatments, sometimes a hammam beyond the pool area.
- À la carte restaurants — themed dinners from a menu, often by reservation.
- Imported alcohol and certain premium cocktails.
- Excursions & transfers off-site, car rental, motorised sports.
- In-room safe, late check-out, premium Wi-Fi — frequently a separate fee.
04 / CheckHow to confirm the exact set before booking
Open the hotel description
On the hotel card, find the board & service block — that's where the real AI/UAI contents are listed, not just the generic label.
Check bars & restaurants
Note the opening hours, the list of included drinks, and which à la carte venues are complimentary.
Clarify the grey areas
Spa, the safe, imported alcohol and excursions — if they aren't listed, treat them as paid and ask your manager.
Ask support
Still unsure — message @sales_travel_bot or call 8 800 1000-646, and we'll check with the operator.
05 / FAQFrequently asked
Is alcohol included in all inclusive?
Usually yes, but it's locally produced and served during bar hours. Imported brands are often extra, though on UAI they're frequently included. Check the hotel description for the exact list.
How does UAI differ from AI?
UAI is an expanded package: more dining outlets, premium and imported drinks, longer bar hours, sometimes complimentary à la carte. The exact contents vary by operator.
Why is à la carte extra on all inclusive?
Themed à la carte venues are usually a premium service on top of the buffet. Sometimes one visit is included and further ones are paid — confirm in the description or with us.
Where do I see the exact set for my hotel?
In the hotel description on its card and in your booking. If something's missing, message @sales_travel_bot or call 8 800 1000-646.