USD 
Considering splashing out on an uber-luxurious room or bonus dining package? The true value of an upgrade lies in what you look for from a holiday, whether you favour a flop-and-drop with added indulgence or a city break with seamless service.
Read on for the most popular upgrades that offer extra bang for your buck.
1. All-inclusive packages
If you’re dreaming of a flop-and-drop with little reason to venture far from your sunbed, you can make considerable savings by opting in for an all-inclusive package. With breakfast, lunch, dinners, snacks, free-flowing drinks and sometimes even experiences and activities included, you can indulge to your heart’s content without having to cover an itemised bill at the end. It’s especially convenient and valuable for families with several mouths to feed, with no need to even leave the resort. All-inclusive offers hold particular value in the Maldives, where the higher costs of imported foods and branded drinks can quickly add up – especially when one cocktail can cost $US15-20.
2. Private airport transfer upgrades
The convenience of having return resort transfers locked in before you even pack your case is a win not only for your to-do list, but your wallet. There’s no need for flagging taxis, negotiating rates on the spot or bundling onto busy buses; you’re safe in the knowledge that you’ll have your own air-conditioned, private car that will transfer you directly from the airport to the resort and back. Families can also pre-book baby seats and extra space, so everyone can travel in safety and comfort.
3. Club access upgrades
If you value your personal space and VIP treatment, an upgrade to a room with club access is a sound investment. So what is a club upgrade? It’s a certain room type (often on a higher floor of the hotel, with better views) that includes access to a luxurious club lounge space, which can offer a quiet breakfast away from the bustling buffets, all-day drinks, evening canapes and perks like private check-in and checkout. It’s also a great place to work, read and make the most of the Wi-Fi, or simply wait in comfort for your flight. If you’ve the time to relax with drinks before dinner each evening, it’s a very nice perk.
4. Room upgrades
This one really depends on the resort, the room and what you value most. Perhaps ocean views are a non-negotiable, you like added privacy, your own pool, or the luxury of butler service. Different room types are often located in different areas of the resort, with premium rooms located on higher floors or in corner positions with preferred views, or closer to club lounge and pool facilities. Upgraded room types can also offer bonus inclusions, which makes them even better value.
5. Overwater villas in the Maldives
When you picture this far-flung paradise, it’s likely the overwater villas that come to mind. If you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip, an upgrade to an overwater villa simply has to be done. Stepping directly from the stairs into the crystalline waters, admiring uninterrupted views of the sunset from your terrace, and even watching the marine life pass by through a glass-panelled floor: this one’s worth the splurge.
6. Interconnecting rooms or suites for families
While interconnecting rooms (two hotel rooms joined by an interior door) can add a considerable cost to your holiday, when it comes to the added comfort, space and improved sleep for the entire family, it’s priceless. For families with young kids sharing one room, it can mean lights out as early as 7pm, shared beds and luggage and belongings dominating the floor space. Interconnecting rooms offers the luxury of a separate space for the kids, individual beds and a more peaceful, spacious setup for the duration of the holiday. Likewise, individual villas or suites with multiple rooms and kitchen facilities will make a family getaway go much more smoothly.
7. Experience upgrades
Like your escape with a little more action? Select packages can include experiences specific to the destination, like Great Barrier Reef cruises in Queensland, or local village tours in Bali. As well as adding extra value, they’re a great way to immerse yourself in the destination you’re visiting and scratch beneath the surface.
Feature image: Hideaway Resort & Spa Maldives. Source: supplied.
