Whether you've decided to go gluten-free because you have Celiac disease, you have a gluten sensitivity, or you've made a lifestyle choice, there are some terrific all-inclusive vacations to be enjoyed in a variety of destinations around the world. All it takes is a little research beforehand to ensure the resorts offer gluten-free options for guests.
Beaches Turks & Caicos
At Beaches Turks & Caicos, you'll find five different villages that celebrate the ambiance and architecture of international destinations, as well as a 45,000 square foot water park and terrific dining options.
Gluten-Free Dining
Sandals Resorts International group manager Paul Bauer says that almost anything on the menu can be made gluten-free, including pastas, pizzas and breads. Sandals is the parent company of Beaches. You do have to fill out a request form at least one meal in advance (i.e., submit the form at lunch for dinner), but you can choose from a number of restaurants.
Typical Pricing
Beaches is a premium resort and the prices reflect that. Two guests staying for one week in November can expect to pay around $10,000.
Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay
Jamaica is one of the most colorful destinations in the Caribbean and Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay is very highly rated by guests. Activities include aerobics, snorkeling, windsurfing, yoga and live entertainment.
International Cuisine
Dining options at the adults only (18+) resort are plentiful, including Jamaican-Caribbean, Mexican, French, Pan-Asian and American cuisine. On TripAdvisor, Tina H. of Sarasota, Florida said this resort is "very accommodating to a gluten-free diet." The staff is very knowledgeable about gluten-free options and there are a good number of gluten-free options at each restaurant.
Standard Room Rates
Nightly room rates can start as low as $200 per adult.
Beach Palace Cancun
One of the five different resorts in Cancun run by Palace Resorts, Beach Palace is directly adjacent to a gorgeous white sand beach with incredible access to the brilliant blue ocean waters. Each guest room comes fully stocked with its own mini bar and the on-site spa will help you relax in the lap of luxury.
Variety of Gluten-Free Options
According to the FAQ for Palace Resorts, they offer "a variety of gluten-free options at all restaurants" and these options are "designated with a special symbol" on the menus. The restaurants include Mexican, Pan-Asian, Mediterranean, and international dishes.
Nightly Rates
Expect to pay around $500 a night for two guests, depending on season and availability.
Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica
Located "on the edge of the beach of Matapalo" in Guanacaste, Riu Palace Costa Rica boasts four swimming pools, 24-hour room service and plenty of ecotourism opportunities.
Riu Palace Restaurants
The property features four themed restaurants and one buffet restaurant. Jessica T. of Frankston, Texas said that she met with a representative upon check-in who asked about her food allergies. She was then given two copies of a typed-out letter, which she presented to the server at each meal. Jessica indicated that all the chefs ensured she had "plenty of options and went out of their way" to keep her safe. In the case of the buffet where cross-contamination is an obvious concern, the chefs prepared her a special plate.
Resort Pricing
Nightly rates for couples are typically around $300.
Breathless Punta Cana
At the adult-only Breathless Punta Cana, you can expect lively entertainment, including DJ parties by the pool, as well as rejuvenating spa treatments, water sports, and access to the Now Onyx Resort & Spa next door.
Culinary Delights Without Gluten
You'll find a total of eight a la carte restaurants, plus a beach grill, a cafe, and a buffet. You can also indulge in room service 24 hours a day. There are gluten-free options at nearly all the resort's restaurants, including grouper and shrimp, vegetable moussaka, seaweed salad, and chilled avocado soup.
Guest Room Rates
A one-week vacation for two guests in December will set you back about $2,000.
Eat, Drink and Be Merry
You can enjoy a variety of gluten-free food, even when lavishing in the luxury of an all-inclusive resort. Just be sure to let your servers know about your dietary preferences and ask for any clarification before ordering. My Heart Beets also suggests taking a translation card and packing your sauces if possible.
