Why we don't prefer Frontier Airlines.
Frontier operates most of the non-stop exclusive vacation flights to Mexico, Jamaica, and the D.R. 15 years ago the flights left early, bags and seats were free, and the planes were comfortable. Today is a completely different experience. This page is to make our clients aware of all the extra charges and possible issues with flying Frontier. As a disclaimer this is being written as our experiences flying out of St. Louis. Flight times and fees will vary by departure city.
- Bags - While most airlines charge baggage fees, Frontier is definitely more expensive and comes with a 40lb weight limit. Most airlines do allow a free carry-on, not Frontier. While bag fees vary by flight, they are typically $60-$70 per bag (carry-on or checked). Compare that to average of $30-$40 on other airlines. Add another $25 if you want to check in your bag with an agent at the airport.
- Seats - The upfront cost of a Frontier flight does not include seat selection. Want to pick your seat, add another $15 or more each person, each way. While this may not be a necessity for some, most people traveling with a family want to be able to sit together.
- Flight times - The Frontier exclusive vacation flights used to leave early in the morning getting you to your destination in time for a quick lunch before hitting the beach. While they still sometimes have early departures, the trend is an afternoon departure with a late afternoon or evening arrival. Yes, you flew non-stop, but you also wasted a half day of your vacation. The other issue that comes with a later departure is that you are depending on your plane arriving to your city on-time. If you're flight is delayed or cancelled, it's almost impossible to get on another flight. We personally would rather stop in Dallas or Charlotte and avoid these issues.
- In-flight - After years of flying Frontier we tried an American flight. Even sitting in coach felt like first class compared to Frontier. Frontier does not offer wifi, power outlets, in-flight entertainment, or complimentary beverages and snacks. Again, this may not be a big deal to most, we just prefer a higher level of service.
We don't completely discourage people from flying Frontier, we just want to make you aware of these details. All airlines and flights can experience issues and delays. Typically, Frontier is cheaper than other airlines, but this may not be the case when you add all the extras. Be prepared to add at least $300 a couple and $600 for a family of four to your total vacation price. As always, we will work with you to get the best flight option for your needs.
All resorts differ in options, but most have a common lineup. Also, most brands post their menus online so you can research them prior to booking and departure. Remember it's all-inclusive so get whatever you want and no need to wait for the check! *Premium options are the only exception to the all-inclusive package. You may see certain restaurants have an upcharge for foods like Wagyu steak or lobster. They may also have premium wines or spirits. Dining options Breakfast - Main buffet, coffee shop, or a specific restaurant for sit-down meal service. Lunch - Main buffet, specified restaurant, pool/beach service, and snack bars. Dinner - The typical resort has five or more restaurants for dinner. Mexican, French, Italian, Asian, Mediterranean, steak house, and seafood are the usual themes. While the buffet is an option at family resorts, it's usually closed at adult only resorts. Room service - Don't feel like going out? Order room service and eat a meal in the comfort of your room or balcony. Bars - Lobby, sports bar, beach, pool swim-up, and a nightclub. Dress codes are strictly enforced by restaurant staff. During the day your fine to wear your beach wear for lunch. However, at night somewhat formal wear is required at most restaurants. Long pants/closed toe shoes for the men and dresses for the ladies. Tips Reservations - Most resorts don't require dinner reservations other than the Hibachi tables. It's first come first serve. The busiest times are 7-9 so plan to wait if going during those times. Some resorts offer food trucks, ice cream and churro carts, pizza ovens, and special theme night dinners. Keep your eye out.
Room categories vary by name at each resort but typically fall into the following categories. Keep in mind you will not be spending the majority of your time in the room. Standard rooms have a sitting area, TV, mini fridge, safe, closet, hair dryer, balcony/patio, and coffee/expresso maker. Room categories Tropical/Garden View - Usually ground or second floor and not really a view of anything. Cheapest, but consider its less steps to get to. Swim-up - Not all resorts have these, but your room will have direct access to a private pool. Ocean View - In most cases this means you are able to see the ocean in some way. It might be just a glimpse through the trees or an adjacent building. Very deceptive and usually not worth it. Ocean Front - If an ocean view from your room is important, then this is the best option. They are located in the buildings closest to the beach. Family suites - These include two bedrooms and it's a good option for those traveling with children. Not all resorts have these, contact us and we can give you some recommendations. Master and Presidential Suites - These are suites with a living room and separate bedroom. They can get pretty extravagant depending on the resort but so does the price tag. VIP service - Most brands offer some type of VIP package. This could mean better room categories or locations, access to special lounges and restaurants, and other amenities. We will give you our honest opinion if we think it's worth it at your resort. Tips Let the staff know what beverages you would like to have stocked in your mini fridge. Housekeeping will clean your room while you are out for the day.
Most resorts state that gratuities are not required. While this is true, we always recommend tipping. The average resort employee makes less than $10 a day so you can see what a few dollars here and there can mean to them. Below is a general guide for when we tip and the general amounts. Transfer driver - $20-40 depending on the total distance of the drive and driver courtesy. (each way) Bellman - $5-10 Breakfast - $2-3 Lunch - $3-5 Dinner - $10-20 depending on the type of dinner and service. Bartenders/Servers - While we don't tip on every drink, a dollar here and there is appreciated. Consider laying down a five or ten if you plan on being at a bar for a couple hours or more. Pool attendant/concierge - Not all resorts have these but tipping them can be crucial if you want prime real estate at the pool. $10-20 on the first day may secure your chairs for the week! Housekeeping - $2-3 per day. Be sure to leave this on the bed. Butler/Concierge - If a resort provides this service, then tip on the service provided. If they only introduce themselves and you never see them again, don't tip at all. If they have gone all out, leave a hefty one on departure. I've never done more than $100 though. Airport baggage porters - $5-10. Upon arrival at the airport for flight home you will be approached by porters wanting to take your bags. We used to think this was a scam but have recently realized it's well worth the tip. They will help you navigate your way through the chaos of the departure area and to check-in. Here's some other pointers regarding tipping For a seven night trip we recommend bringing $500 in cash broken up by denomination. $150 in ones, $150 in fives, $100 in tens and $100 in twenties. We always come back with spare money but it's best to have more than not enough. ATM's come with hefty fees abroad. Not all tips have to be money. Consider leaving items for staff if you think they would like or need them. For example, the people in the Dominican Republic are huge baseball fans. Leaving them a cup with an MLB logo on it can mean a lot to them or their children. Also mentioning by them by name in a review can get them rewarded by the resort. Carry a cheap wallet for cash in your beach bag, leave the real one in your safe. Slipping a few dollars in your waterproof phone case is also helpful while at the swim up bar.