Hotel operators turn to all-inclusive offers

The number of hotel operators on the Black Sea coast offering all-inclusive packages (which include accommodation, three meals a day plus refreshments) is continuously growing, due to the increasingly big demand for such services, as well as to the reduced personnel costs involved. This year, around ten hotels are offering all-inclusive packages, compared with 3-4 last year, with their number expected to rise next year, according to representatives of the National Association of Travel Agencies in Romania (ANAT). “Many hotel operators have voiced their intention to switch to all-inclusive packages next year, because it is more advantageous, at least in terms of personnel-related costs,” Traian Badulescu, press officer with ANAT, told ZF. With this type of services, people help themselves to the food, so there is no need for waiting staff. Badulescu added that hotels which this year chose the all-inclusive system are located in Mamaia, Costinesti, Neptun, Jupiter and Saturn, with such services being offered in all types of hotels, from 2-star to 5-star ones. “The Romanian Black Sea coast will not be dominated by all-inclusive services, however, within the next 3-5 years, around 20-25% of hotels will have an all-inclusive offer,” added Badulescu. An all-inclusive 7-day stay at a 4-star hotel in Mamaia costs 423 euros per person in the peak season. A similar offer costs 446 euros on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, according to ANAT.