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All Inclusive (AI)
This means all your meals and locally produced drinks – both soft and alcoholic – are included in the holiday price. Usually there is a cut-off time in the evening, which will vary depending on the hotel, but it usually 11pm or midnight.
All Inclusive holidays are fantastic for families as there’s no need to worry about all those little extras in-between meal times adding up. Ice creams and snacks are sometimes included too.
As pretty much everything is included in the package price, this is the best type of board basis for those who do not plan to venture far from the hotel/resort they are staying in, or who don’t want to worry about carrying cash around while on holiday. But, you’ve always got the opportunity to eat out away from the resort if you choose to. You may also be entitled to watersports and other activities which you would usually expect to pay for.
Full Board (FB)
Full Board means that breakfast, lunch and evening meals are included in the price but any drinks or snacks will cost you extra.
This package is perfect for those who are happy spending the day lounging by the pool at the hotel but don’t want to be restricted to what the hotel has to offer in the evening – perfect if you prefer to experience the surrounding nightlife after dinner.
Half Board (HB)
Breakfast and dinner are both included in the price, meaning that any snacks or drinks will cost you extra.
HB suits those who plan on venturing out during the day. Perhaps you want to book lots of daytime excursions to explore the local area or further afield?
This means you can fill up on breakfast before you leave, grab lunch when you’re out, and come back knowing you won’t have to worry about cooking dinner or finding somewhere to eat when you return as the hotel will have it covered.
Bed and Breakfast (B&B)
For those who like to start the day with a good hearty breakfast but don’t want to be fixed to certain prearranged times for the rest of their meals, B&B is a great option.
Most hotels offer a buffet breakfast so you can pile your plate high to keep your energy up until lunch time – this is particularly good for couples and groups.
Self Catering (SC)
Want to eat breakfast at midday? Do the kids eat dinner at 5pm but you prefer to wait until they are in bed? Self catering holidays offer the flexibility to come and go as you please and to set your own holiday timetable.
No meals are included in the cost of a self catering holiday but you will be provided with basic kitchen facilities in your accommodation, such as a cooker, kettle and microwave.
This board basis is also perfect for those who have a pickier appetite or miss their home comforts while away. It also suits those with a small budget as you can buy food at supermarkets cheaply and cook for yourself.
Originally written by Lewis Spratt. Reviewed and republished by Adele Grant
About the author
Adele has worked in travel for a number of years now, which has taken her to some amazing places. When she’s not at home cuddling her dog, she loves to explore new places. From Mexico to Croatia and Iceland, she has some great insider tips.