* Great family rates

* Mealtime convenience and drinks on tap

* Water and beach sports

* Water slides and deluxe swimming pools

* Grown-up pampering such as spas, dining, cocktail parties, etc.

* Babysitting and other services

* Activities for kids and family programs

However, there are times when there are just so many all-inclusive Caribbean family travel resorts out there that it's difficult to pick just one. Given the financial cost and emotional investment, the stakes are high. How do you know which one goes with you and your family best?

All-Inclusive vs. All-Included

When hotels advertise an all-inclusive package, it's logical to assume that "everything" is included in one price. Keep in mind, however, that an all-inclusive Caribbean family vacation package may not incorporate everything. You will receive meals and snacks, drinks, kids' programs, activities and certain water sports, but you won't have access to all of them.

Pay attention to the following:

* Snorkeling gear is usually supplied at no charge, but there may be a limit on how long you can use it. If you wish to join a snorkeling boat trip on your Caribbean family vacation, you may be required to pay an additional fee.

* Expect to pay extra for scuba gear.

* Spa services always cost extra, unless you have purchased a special package.

* Off-property outings are not included, though the resort may provide free shuttle bus service to nearby towns.

* Some resorts that are not all-inclusive will offer specialized plans with meals and/or activities.

* Non-motorized water sports, including kayaks, aqua trikes and wind surfing, are usually included. You may have to pay extra for water skiing, jet skis and other motorized water sports.

Kids Clubs and Activities

Your all-inclusive Caribbean family vacation package should offer some sort of "Kids Club" program. Many resorts have bright and cheery play rooms for children, with TV and video games for older kids. A warm and friendly staff is available to care for your kids while you enjoy some R&R.

If you want your children to enjoy multiple programs, most all-inclusive resorts have these as well. There are various places offering programs for kids of all ages. Club Med in Punta Cana, Beaches Resorts and Atlantis in the Bahamas offer these types of programs with their all-inclusive Caribbean family vacation packages.

Tiny Travelers

It's becoming more common for Caribbean resorts to provide nursery service and infant care for guests traveling with babies and toddlers. It's a welcoming break for parents, who can use those precious few hours of nap time in the nursery to become refreshed, invigorated and ready to enjoy a piece of Caribbean paradise. Ask you r travel agent to confirm that babysitting service will be readily available during your vacation.

If you're concerned about the availability of on-site doctors and nurses, consider booking with the larger and better-known Caribbean family vacation resorts. These will be your best choices for the complete services that you require.