Discussion of '3 Price Levels'

Typically Ocean Cruise packages are divided into 3 kinds: Inclusive (all inclusive) vs partially inclusive vs exclusive with the 1^st — all Inclusive (all inclusive) — being the most complete, rigid AND expensive.  Please read this earlier discussion again because these terms are confusing     [jlk:  ???

Usually, as in most purchases, the higher the cost, the greater the quality, but CAUTION, sometimes lower price merely disguises lower quality.  

Again, your ONLY guarantee of tour quality vs cost is the thoroughness of your understanding & evaluation of the Tour Factors I have offered you.

A. Quick Look: (Please read closely because terms are subtly confusing)
    1. Inclusive (all inclusive): Covers most or all expenses; offers simplicity & convenience, but little ‘free time’ flexibility. 
    2. Partial Inclusive: Some expenses, but not all covered so guest must control their budget AND do their own ‘free time’ planning
    3. All Exclusive (All-Inclusive): Everything is included for a completely worry-free trip, but with higher costs and less flexibility & choice.

B. A Deeper Look:
    1. “Inclusive (All-inclusive)” cruises: (means same)
          Definition: These cruises cover almost all expenses at a single price. 
          BEST deal: if eat, drink, & participate a lot. 

Generally, as in most purchases, the greater the quality & diversity of perks & experiences … the higher the cost.

PROs: 

1. Price: Single upfront price, but ‘good deal’ if you take full advantage of what's offered.  No ‘final surprise bill’ ….!
2. Price/Quality Options: Many deeply curated levels of quality & price. 
   a. Carol Walton’s Expedition’s private jet skips
        high-rollers between African safari sites.   ➡︎➡︎➡︎➢➢
   b. Some specialty tours (not Carol’s) can cost $100, 000.
3. Research, planning & logistics: done for you.
4. Transportation: included, maybe transfers to/from airports
5. Lodging: Included
6. Meals: often all meals, maybe snacks beverages & alcohol)
7. Activities: included a wide range of activities, excursions, or fun.
8. All planning: …. site, activity & logistics done for you.
9. Extras: may be included; tips, hotel & local taxes, service charges, to/from airport, transfers, food, snacks, alcohol (premium brands, 24/7); wifi & cell on bus, hotel taxes,
10. Non-tour expenses: maybe Local Entry & Departure Tax (Costa Rica, cash only), on-arrival visas, Currency exchange & ATM Fees.
11. Worry-free: because rigid & comprehensive.
12. Predictable cost budgeting: because all costs are known upfront & included …. reducing the need to spend more. 
13. Less cash to carry: supposedly because initial price covers all, but …..

TIP: Be wise. Always carry cash or cc/dc; you just never know.

CONs: 
    1. Near-zero flexibility: rigid site/activities/meal schedules, & little ‘free time’.
    2. Less value for $: if you don't use all the included services.

    2. “Partially Inclusive” Cruise: (middle ground between ‘inclusive (all inclusive)’ & ‘exclusive’ tours.
           Definition: Includes some, but not all, expenses in the package price.
PROs:

1. Price: less initial budget cost, but often budget-busting add-on optional costs. must carefully budget extras.
2. Better Value for Money: particularly if you highly value “Free Time” independent travel opportunities.
3. Flexibility: some “free time” options for independent travelers: local meals, local Excursions or self-guided walking tours.
4. Transportation: maybe to/from airport transfers. 
5. Lodging: for specified tour nights
6. Meals: Varies: some or none.  This can vary. Must ask.
7. Activities: maybe major attractions/specific activities, but not optional activities.
8. Guides: guided tours for the entire tour.
9. Entry fees: maybe for some attractions/activities
10. ’Free time’ options: within tour’s structure.

Rick Steves Tours seem to go out of their way to insure you have all the pre-booking info you need. https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/trip-planning/comparing-tours

CONs: 
    1. ‘Free time’ opportunities: require pre-trip research, planning, & booking.
    2. More ‘free-time’ budgeting: excursions, restaurants, Uber etc.
    3. Flights: often not included, unless specified: “air-inclusive"
    4. Meals: most not covered, but varies.  Please ask.
    5. Personal Expenses: Not covered: souvenirs, alcoholic, tips, bottled water.
    6. Optional Excursions: NOT covered, often over priced; may book locally.
    7. Contract & Promo’s Fine Print: Guest’s responsibility to avoid surprises & dissatisfaction.
    8. Travel Insurance: I always bought.

    3. “Exclusive” Cruise: (most basic & least expensive initial cost) 
                           (Not to be confused with ‘all-inclusive')
           Definition: usually ONLY includes basic published tour features.
                NOTE:” Generally “all-Exclusive” means
                      1) some amenities are always included,
                      2) some seldom included and
                      3) other amenities depend on the tour.

                CAUTION: Term "exclusive" is often duplicitously used to suggest
                          ‘exclusivity’ i.e. "high quality", but not necessarily so.

PROs: 
    1. BEST PRO: much ‘free time’ self-guided travel options: unique cafes,
        intimate neighborhood walkabouts.                                    ➤➤➤➾➾
    2. Cost: least costly, …. if you avoid costly add-on services, etc.
    3. Tour's Published Basics ONLY: lodging, meals, sites/activities
    4. Transportation: unlikely to/from airport transfers
    5. Food & Lodging: minimal basics
    6. Attraction Entry Fees: yes, for most package-specific attractions  
    7. Perks: limited, if any: snacks, beverages.
    8. Internet ‘free time’ research & planning:   “Believe it or not …”,
        can be exciting.
    9. Budget ‘free time’ additional costs, if any: local excursions, dinners. etc.
            NOTE: self-guided walking tours are free & worthwhile.

CONs: 
    1. Cost: may exceed budget, if you fall prey to add-on services. Must
            exercise restraint. �
    2. Free Time’s options: may add cost. Estimate & budget. 
    3. Attraction Entry Fees: for some package attractions.  
            Ask?  
    4. Hidden extra expenses: know what is not included in  
           price. Ask !!!
K16 hidden price
    5. Optional’ excursions: not covered, often overpriced 
    6. Food & Drink: usually NOT covered: alcohol,
    7. Lodging: not included: hotel services (usually very expensive:
        laundry, pressing, etc), if available
    8. Single supplement fee: single-person lodging extra fee
    9. Fine Print: ALWAYS check fine print, and reviews or ask about hidden costs.
    10. Guest perks: some included, but, others extra: tips, spa work,
          high-end activities & luxury services.
    11. Personal Expenses: Snacks, non-alcoholic & alcoholic beverages:
          limited, if at all.
    12. Flexibility: Less flexibility because highly structured with specific
          included optionals,
               ---- YET, often much & many ’free time’ options for
                      independent travelers.
    13. Free time is usually significant (Rick Steve's’ Tour : 36% of
          morning, afternoon, night segments.
    14. ‘free time’ expenses: Uber, food, souvenirs, excursions, tips