Resort holidays are becoming more popular, and there are resorts for just about every type of holiday in a variety of locations. From beach resorts and spa resorts to ski resorts and sports-related resorts, just about every climate and experience can be catered for. As a rule, resorts are self-contained holiday accommodation where a range of services and facilities are available. Special facilities will vary according to the resort, but there are some common facilities and services usually found in resorts.

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Your room

A resort by current definition is somewhere you can go to relax, to indulge yourself, and be looked after, and that means that your room, your cabin, your villa or holiday apartment will have a range of facilities. A mini-bar is usually available, as is room service for ordering meals and drinks. A television, often with cable reception and a stereo are standard, and some resorts will also include a DVD player. Increasingly, broadband Internet access or WiFi are provided as well as a telephone for outcalls. Fresh linen daily, housekeeping services, laundry services and a range of toiletries are included, as are tea and coffee-making facilities. Some resorts will have breakfast included, and some will also have a spa in the bathroom.

The resort itself

Depending on where the resort is, there will be a number of facilities you can use. These can include a swimming pool, either indoor or outdoor, depending on the climate, a spa and sauna or steam room, a gym, a restaurant and a bar, and sometimes a spa centre, or wellness centre, where massage, facial treatments, manicures and pedicures and other pampering treatments are provided. There may also be a childcare service during school holidays. If it’s a beach resort, daybeds with full waiter service can also be available. Many resorts will also have a business room, where computers, faxes and telephones are free for use. Breakfast rooms, where a buffet breakfast is served are also common.

Outside the resort

Resorts are often located near sporting or outdoor activities, such as water-skiing, golf, rock climbing, snow skiing, snorkelling or scuba diving. Resorts will have a booking service or kiosk available for guests. There may also be transport to the activity.

Some resorts may also have special day tours or trips to nearby towns or landmarks. If the resort does not have its own wedding facilities, as many do, they will have access to local wedding services and reception venues.

Other available services

Many resorts will have a pick-up service available. This means they can arrange for a driver to meet you at the airport and transport you and your luggage to the resort. Upon arrival, many resorts, especially tropical resorts, will present you with a refreshing drink as you check in. At the end of your stay, they can arrange for a driver to return you to the airport. In-room massages are often available as well. Some resorts can arrange for your breakfast to be delivered or prepared in your own room.