To go all-inclusive or not? That is the question. The travel community is split between the supporters and the nay-sayers on all-inclusive travel, and each camp has its own valid arguments. But after our most recent trip to the Hard Rock Cancun, part of Hard Rock's All-Inclusive Collection, we think that the resort's all-inclusive concept could give even the skeptics a run for their money.
I'm a believer in the all-inclusive strategy, but every now and again I have my own complaints. My first is about food and drink. At most all-inclusives, the cuisine is generally sub-par and alcohol is bottom shelf. At Hard Rock Cancun, however, they completely blow the lid off the F&B concept. Travel Agent had the pleasure of dining at Ipanema, the resort's Brazilian steakhouse; Frida, the Mexican restaurant; the buffet and the poolside cuisine and we can honestly say that the food went above and beyond our expectations for all-inclusive meals. What's better is in-room dining is also part of the plan. Guests are treated to top shelf liquor, as well (and yes, this includes some delicious Champagne, which we were sure to sample).
The hotel also includes all hotel taxes and gratuities, most on property sports, unlimited phone calls to the U.S. and Canada, Wi-Fi throughout the resort and up to $1,500 in resort credit.
Hard Rock Cancun (previously a Palace Resorts property) was recently rebranded and brought up to Hard Rock standards. The resort has 601 rooms, a spa, fitness center, amphitheater for concerts, pool, beach cabanas and more. True to Hard Rock form, the hotel has hosted some major names as of late, and the hotel is decked out from head-to-toe in impressive rocker memorabilia.
If you have yet to try an all-inclusive resort, we say Hard Rock Cancun is an excellent place to start. Be on the lookout for the opening of Hard Rock Riviera Maya (currently Hard Rock Aventura), which is going to be even bigger than the Cancun property and has some exciting surprises in store. (Preview: We hear the resort will be home to the world's first ocean swim-up bar. How rock star is that?)