May 2025 Travel & Cottage Guides – Ocean’s Reach Retreats

May was a busy month. We rolled out a mix of travel hacks, hotel deep‑dives, and eco‑living ideas to help you plan smarter getaways. Below is a quick tour of what we covered, so you can grab the tips that matter most.

All‑Inclusive Essentials

If you love the all‑inclusive vibe, we answered the big questions first. Wondering whether you need a passport to book a resort? Our guide breaks down when a passport is mandatory, when a driver’s licence will do, and what to expect at check‑in. We also cleared up the myth of “free food” – you’ll learn which meals truly come at no extra cost and which hidden fees can sneak onto the bill.

Drinks limits can be confusing, too. We explained what “6 drinks a day” really means, how resorts track your consumption, and which venues count toward the cap. Planning a longer stay? We explored the idea of living permanently at an all‑inclusive resort, covering costs, logistics, and who benefits most – families, digital nomads, or retirees.

Finally, we helped you decide how long to stay. Our sweet‑spot analysis matches trip length to activity variety, budget, and the risk of burnout. Whether you have a weekend or a two‑week break, the advice keeps you from over‑ or under‑planning.

Cottage & Eco Living Tips

National Trust members asked if their membership scores a discount on cottages. We laid out the exact perks, how to spot the deals, and tricks for snagging last‑minute bargains. The piece also compares the value of joining just for cottage savings.

Eco‑friendly dwellers got a double feature. First, we examined yurts – are they really green? You’ll learn about materials, insulation, and real‑world footprints, plus tips to make your yurt even greener. Next, we defined what an eco‑friendly house is called, highlighted the key features like solar panels and passive heating, and shared budget‑friendly upgrades for any home.

For those dreaming of a multi‑level country cottage, we answered how many floors are allowed and what building codes matter. Real examples show how designers balance charm with regulations.

Hotel spa lovers wondered if “complimentary” means truly free. Our rundown lists which hotel brands typically include spa access, where hidden costs hide, and how to read the fine print before you book.

Business travelers weren’t left out. We compared business hotels to standard stays, pointing out fast Wi‑Fi, in‑room workspaces, and early breakfast options that can turn a hectic trip into a smoother experience.

And for the budget‑conscious, we shared the average price of an all‑inclusive stay in 2025, breaking down what’s usually included and where extra charges pop up. The numbers help you set realistic expectations before you click ‘book now’.

That’s the May roundup. Use these bite‑size insights to fine‑tune your next holiday, whether you’re chasing seaside cottages in Croyde or a hassle‑free all‑inclusive resort abroad.

Theo Frayne May 29, 2025

Do You Need a Passport for All-Inclusive Hotels? What to Know Before You Book

Ever wondered if you need a passport to book an all-inclusive vacation? This article sorts out whether passports are a must for different types of all-inclusive resorts, including those in your own country. Learn why border rules matter, what resorts really check when you arrive, and useful tips for smooth check-in. Find out what happens if you show up without the right ID and how to avoid ruining your trip before it even starts.

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Theo Frayne May 28, 2025

Do You Eat for Free at All-Inclusive Resorts?

Ever wondered if all-inclusive resorts truly mean you can eat for free all day? This article breaks down exactly what you get with your stay and where the hidden costs might show up. Find out which food and drinks are included, what you need to watch for, and which extras could pop up on your bill. Plus, get straightforward tips for getting the most out of your trip. Don't get caught off guard when you hit the buffet or minibar—know before you go.

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Theo Frayne May 27, 2025

All-Inclusive: Does 6 Drinks a Day Actually Mean Unlimited?

Ever booked an all-inclusive hotel thinking you’d be sipping cocktails all day, only to discover there’s a limit? This article breaks down what '6 drinks a day' really means in the all-inclusive world. Find out why some resorts set daily drink caps, how they track your drinks, and what to expect at check-in. You’ll also get practical tips to make the most of your all-inclusive package, whatever the limits are. No fluff, just the facts you actually need.

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Theo Frayne May 22, 2025

Business Hotel: What Makes Them Different and Why Pick One?

Business hotels are designed for people who travel for work and need more than just a comfortable bed. They're all about speed, convenience, and getting stuff done, offering things like fast Wi-Fi, early breakfasts, and easy check-in. You'll find little details that make a big difference if you're always on the go, like printers in the lobby and desks in every room. Not just for suits either—plenty of regular travelers love the calm and order here. The right business hotel can turn work trips from a hassle into something smooth and even enjoyable.

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Theo Frayne May 21, 2025

Can I Live at an All-Inclusive? What You Need to Know

Ever wondered if you can actually live full-time at an all-inclusive resort? This article breaks down whether long-term stays are possible, what to expect, and how much it really costs. You’ll get the lowdown on what daily life looks like, from meals to laundry and the vibe of the place. Plus, there are tips for families, digital nomads, and anyone daydreaming of endless poolside snacks. It’s a practical guide to swapping your regular home for a hotel that does everything for you.

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Theo Frayne May 15, 2025

National Trust Members: Do You Get a Discount on Cottages?

Wondering if your National Trust membership gives you a deal on cottages? This article breaks down what perks you actually get, how the booking process works, and tips for grabbing last minute specials. Find out how to spot the best offers and whether it’s worth signing up just for cottage savings. Stay savvy and make the most out of your holiday budget.

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Theo Frayne May 14, 2025

How Long Should You Stay in an All-Inclusive Resort?

Not sure how many days you actually need at an all-inclusive resort? This article breaks down the sweet spot for planning your stay so you don’t get bored or blow your budget. Find out how to make the most of your trip, avoid hidden costs, and pick the best activities for your time frame. Get straight talk about what to expect day by day. Perfect for anyone booking their first or fifth all-inclusive escape.

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Theo Frayne May 12, 2025

Are Yurts Eco-Friendly? A Real Look at Green Living in Round Homes

Curious if yurts are as green as everyone says? This article digs into what makes yurts eco-friendly, from the materials to how they work in real life. You'll get straight facts about waste, insulation, and the true footprint of these round dwellings. We'll also look at how to make a yurt even greener, and if they're the right fit for your sustainable living goals. Perfect for anyone considering an alternative, earth-conscious home.

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Theo Frayne May 8, 2025

Eco-Friendly House: What Is It Called and What Makes It Unique?

Curious about what an eco-friendly house is called and what sets it apart? This article breaks down common names for these homes and explains their key features. You'll discover what to look for if you want a place that's kind to the environment and saves money in the long run. Get simple tips to make any home more sustainable, no matter your budget. Learn how real people are making green homes a reality.

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Theo Frayne May 7, 2025

Is Spa Complimentary in Hotels? What You Really Get

Ever wondered if hotel spas are actually free? This article breaks down what 'complimentary' means when it comes to spas in hotels, and where the hidden costs might appear. It shares facts, explains common packages, and offers practical advice for travelers who want to enjoy spa perks without surprise fees. You'll find out which types of hotels are more likely to include spa access for free, and how to spot extra charges. By the end, you'll feel way more confident booking your next hotel with a spa.

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Theo Frayne May 5, 2025

How Many Floors Can a Cottage Have? Real Answers for Rural Living

Wondering if your dream rural cottage can have more than one floor? This article uncovers what actually counts as a cottage, how many floors you can build, and what rules might get in your way. Learn practical tips about planning a multi-level cottage and get real-life examples from different countries. Understand how design and regulations shape your cottage choices so you know what works before you start building.

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Theo Frayne May 1, 2025

How Much is the Average All-Inclusive? Real Numbers & Need-to-Knows

This article breaks down the true average cost of all-inclusive hotels, giving real price ranges based on popular destinations and travel seasons. You'll learn what is (and isn't) actually included, sneaky extras to watch out for, and money-saving tricks that most travel agents won't spill. Packed with practical examples and fresh 2025 pricing info, this guide makes sure you book smarter. If you want straight answers without the marketing fluff, this is for you.

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