Only time that we've partaken of the luxury of an all-inclusive resort was at a resort in the Maldives. It is now near the top of my list of places to which I dream to return (coupled, once again, with a cultural trip to Sri Lanka).

We stayed at the Banyan Tree Resort on the island of Vabbinfaru (Kaffu atoll). The resort takes up the whole island but...it's a pretty tiny island. We spent the whole 4 days we were there in barefeet (heaven for me!) and just went off the island twice onto their own boats for night fishing and diving/snorkelling excursions. The food was fantastic and it was wonderful to not have to worry about paying for things separately (the only things that weren't included in the daily rates were wines and spirits and that was added onto the bill at the end).

My husband and I tend not to like "beach holidays" - tending more towards bopping from place to place to learn more about the culture and history of the area. But, despite my husband's concern that he would be bored - this was a wonderful way to totally unwind and I have NEVER seen a sea so blue, nor such an incredible array of colourful and interesting sealife. You could just sit on the dock and watch the water for hours!

Now - as for value for money - I have to say it was very good value for us because we 'purchased' the package at a silent auction in HK and it cost us a heck of a lot less than the rates published on their site now: http://www.banyantree.com/maldives/ I do think the rates have climbed a lot in the last few years. BUT....if I had that money now and/or a very special event to celebrate - that's where I'd go!!!

Cheers! Judy in HK