All Inclusive or Breakfast Only: How to Choose the Best Hotel Meal Plan

All Inclusive or Breakfast Only: What Should You Choose?

Modern travelers are increasingly approaching their vacations thoughtfully: comparing hotels, analyzing infrastructure, and planning their trip scenarios in advance. While choosing accommodation is usually straightforward, the type of meal plan becomes one of the key factors directly affecting comfort and overall travel experience.

The “All Inclusive” system remains one of the most popular options, allowing guests to fully relax without worrying about additional expenses. At the same time, the breakfast-only format (BB) is gaining popularity as a more flexible solution for those who want to explore the destination, enjoy local cuisine, and avoid being limited to the hotel premises.

To make the right choice, it is important not only to understand the differences between these formats but also to consider how each one shapes your travel experience.

Breakfast Only (BB): What It Is and Key Features

BB (Bed and Breakfast) is a meal plan that includes only breakfast in the accommodation price. Despite its simplicity, this format remains one of the most versatile and востребованных among travelers.

In practice, breakfast is often the only meal most guests consistently attend, which is why hotels place special emphasis on its quality and variety.

Main Types of Hotel Breakfasts

Continental Breakfast

• A light European-style option including:
• fresh pastries
• butter and jams
• tea or coffee
• sometimes cheese and cold cuts, fruits

This format is typical for city hotels and ideal for a quick start to the day.

English or American Breakfast

• A more substantial and calorie-rich option:
• eggs (fried, omelet, scrambled)
• bacon, sausages, or beans
• toast, butter, jam
• hot drinks and juices
• Suitable for active days and long excursions.

Buffet Breakfast

• The most common format in resort and chain hotels:
• hot dishes (omelets, waffles, porridge)
• cold items (cheese, meats, vegetables)
• fruits, desserts, pastries
• drinks (tea, coffee, juices)

The main advantage is the freedom to choose and take any quantity of food.

Important Breakfast Details

• Serving time: usually from 7:00 AM to 10:00–11:00 AM
• Quality and variety depend on hotel category
• Early departures may include a takeaway lunch box
• Some hotels offer late breakfasts or brunch

Who Should Choose BB

• travelers planning active sightseeing
• those who prefer local restaurants and gastronomy
• guests who do not want to follow a fixed schedule
• people who value flexibility and mobility

What Is Included in All Inclusive and Its Advantages

All Inclusive (AI) is a comprehensive format where accommodation, meals, and a significant part of hotel infrastructure are included in the price.

This option is ideal for those who want maximum comfort within one location.

What Is Typically Included

• breakfast, lunch, and dinner (usually buffet)
• additional meals:
• late breakfast
• snacks
• afternoon tea
• late-night dishes
• soft and alcoholic drinks
• access to bars, pools, and leisure areas
• animation and basic entertainment

In most hotels, food and beverages are available from 6:00 AM to midnight.

Extended All Inclusive Formats

Ultra All Inclusive (UAI)

• imported alcoholic drinks
• wider food selection
• à la carte restaurants
• 24/7 dining

Soft All Inclusive

• meals and non-alcoholic drinks
• alcohol limited or not included

AI+ / Luxury All Inclusive

• premium service level
• personalized services
• access to exclusive areas

Hard All Inclusive (HAC)

• almost no restrictions
• round-the-clock access to services

Who Should Choose All Inclusive

• families with children
• beach holiday travelers
• those who want to control their budget in advance
• guests seeking a worry-free vacation

Other Meal Plans: Full Overview

No Meal Plan

• RO (Room Only) — accommodation only
• EP, BO, AO, RR, NO — similar options
• SC (Self Catering) — kitchen available
• Suitable for long stays and independent travelers.

Partial Meal Plan

HB (Half Board)

• breakfast + dinner (or lunch)
• drinks usually not included

HB+

includes limited drinks

Full Board

FB (Full Board)

• breakfast, lunch, dinner
• drinks usually not included
• Also known as:
• FP (Full Pension)
• AP (American Plan)

Dining Formats: How They Affect Your Experience

Buffet

• free choice of dishes
• unlimited servings
• time-saving
• ideal for families

À la carte

• ordering from menu
• personalized service
• possible dress code and reservations

Breakfast or All Inclusive: How to Decide

Choose BB if:

• your trip includes excursions and movement
• you want to explore local restaurants
• the hotel is located in an active area
• you value flexibility

Choose All Inclusive if:

• you plan a beach or resort holiday
• you travel with children
• you want fixed expenses
• you prefer convenience

Practical Tips

• check restaurant working hours
• clarify alcohol inclusion
• evaluate hotel location
• consider season and trip format

Example: Modern Hotel Approach

• Hotels like “Revyu” offer both options.
• Guests can choose:

BB:

• buffet breakfast
• wide selection
• convenient timing

All Inclusive:

• breakfast
• snacks
• lunch
• afternoon tea
• dinner
• drinks throughout the day

Final Recommendation

The choice depends on your travel style:

For flexibility and exploration — BB

For comfort and relaxation — All Inclusive

A well-chosen meal plan is not just convenience — it shapes your entire travel experience.