Request for more "all-inclusive" type auction packages

[claassenam]

I posted this in an Orient-Express specific post, but think it fits better on its own here:


What I loved the most about the Peru Orient Express package (and what's tempting about the O-E safari packages) is that almost everything is done for you. I love planning travel, but it's also nice to pay one price and have a basic itinerary through several locations, airport transfers, several meals, cars and guides where needed, etc. I've only ever seen something like this on Luxury Link as part of a cruise or group tour (and I'm rather averse to traveling in a group)- really any package like these where most of the elements are planned and included for a 7-15 day vacation are quite appealing to me.

[disneygal]

Hi claassenam,

Good point - I would like to see more inclusive packages also.
There are a few (granted very few) packages on LL that are more inclusive. Right now there are some to French Polynesia including two properties, air, as well as some meals.

[kboojd]

I think what makes LL special, compared to other travel research/purchase sites, is that the packages offer a little "extra" - such as the airport transfers, occasional spa treatments (Evason Hideaway) and meals. While few people on this site want something so "all-inclusive" that we don't have a chance to find our own way or do our own thing, some of the extras that I've found most valuable in the LL packages are, in order of preference:



1. Airport/transportation transfers (almost every package I've gotten) - this is an extra touch of luxury and personal service, and very much appreciated.



2. Daily (or almost daily breakfast) - you're not tied to the hotel/resort property and are now able to skip lunch, if necessary. It's also a great, relaxing way to start the day at the property



3. 1-2 dinners - a good way to showcase the hotel/resort restaurant, and we have often ended up dining at the restaurant again, on our own money.



4. Activities - if the property itself isn't an all-inclusive-type resort, having some flexible options would be good. I've seen a number of Hawaii properties on LL in the past offer a certain # of "credits" toward activities, such as dinner, spa, golf, jeep tours, snorkeling, etc., so the vacationer can choose to spend their credits on different things that matter to them.



I think this is different from offering packages at "all inclusive" properties, which tend to feel more like the cruises or group tours that claassenam mentioned (and which I agree, many LL-ers would probably be averse to).