The quoted room rate isn't always the full story — a handful of additional charges commonly get added on top, particularly at larger resorts.
Common add-on charges
- Service charge — typically 10%, often already built into the displayed rate but sometimes added at checkout — check which
- VAT — 7% government tax, usually included in quoted rates on booking platforms but worth confirming for direct bookings
- Resort fee — a flat daily charge some larger resorts add to cover facilities (pool, gym, Wi-Fi), separate from the room rate itself
- Airport transfer — sometimes included, sometimes a separate paid add-on even when a resort's marketing implies otherwise
How to avoid surprises
Read the fine print on "taxes and fees excluded" pricing before comparing rates across properties — a lower headline rate with fees excluded can end up costing more than a higher all-inclusive rate once everything is added.
What's usually genuinely optional
Spa treatments, additional excursions booked through the hotel, and minibar items are the more clearly optional extras — resort fees and service charges are the ones worth checking for before you book, since they're less obviously flagged upfront.