I lived in an all-inclusive resort for a month to find out if it’s cheaper than paying rent and buying groceries – here’s what I found out
A Seattle man fed up with the rising costs of rent and groceries has decided to find out whether it would be cheaper to live at an all-inclusive resort.
Ben Keenan managed to put the theory to the test after Expedia saw his post about it on TikTok and reimbursed his costs.
The vlogger documented his month-long stay at the Ocean Riviera Paradise resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
Over 27 days, he uploaded videos showing his daily routine and estimated costs, following a Monday to Friday routine, to try to keep it similar to his normal life.
Costs include lodging, food, drinks, events and amenities such as gym memberships.
A Seattle man fed up with the rising costs of rent and groceries decided to see if it would be cheaper to live at an all-inclusive resort
The content creator noted that his room had the same square footage as his regular apartment in Seattle.
Keenan estimated that in normal life he would spend about $4,100 per month. This included $2,300 in rent, $200 in utilities and $270 in car payment.
At the end of his trip, Keenan’s total cost at the resort, excluding airfare, was $4,900.
However, he suggested there were savings to be made if you booked in advance.
“If you look directly on paper, what I paid for was $800 more expensive to live in Mexico,” he said.
‘Mine was quite last minute though, if I had booked earlier I would have saved another $400.
‘The whole idea is that you want to be flexible in what you do. You can book whenever you want, the price will change.’
Ben Keenan managed to put the theory to the test at the Ocean Riviera Paradise resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Costs include lodging, food, drinks, events and amenities such as gym memberships
He also pointed out that the resort offers benefits such as events, a swimming pool, room service and housekeeping.
“It wasn’t cheaper for me, but I can’t say if it would be cheaper for you or not,” he added.
Inflation in the US fell slightly last month to 3.3 percent, but continues to put pressure on household budgets.
According to Zillow, the average rent in the US is currently $2,129, down $6 from a year ago.