The resort comparison that includes the costs outside the room
Two resort room rates can hide very different holiday totals. Compare what you will need during the stay before choosing the lower nightly price.

Read the inclusions literally
List meals, drinks, transfers, activities and taxes shown in each offer. “Breakfast included” does not tell you about lunch, dinner or transport from the airport. Check which facilities are open during your dates and whether particular activities need advance booking or extra payment.
Consider the location
A remote property may be exactly what you want, but it can limit meal and transport choices. Estimate the cost and time of any trips you expect to take outside. If you have dietary or accessibility needs, ask the property specific questions and keep its replies.
Compare cancellation conditions
Put the payment schedule, refund deadline and any deposit beside the total. A flexible rate may be worth considering when plans are uncertain, but read the actual conditions. Do not assume a booking platform's general policy overrides the selected rate's terms. The best comparison is a small table for your own trip, with the same stay length and requirements used for each property.
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