Going on vacation to an all-inclusive beach resort is different from your typical trip to, say, Europe. When you travel there, you usually have a whole to-do list long enough to justify a vacation from your vacation – part of why the ALG Vacations® Cities & Seas itineraries and sales are so popular!

But when you visit a luxury all-inclusive, where money is no object, there are no limits, and no end of choices with few restrictions in sight, decision paralysis sets in and it’s a lot harder to nail down a vacation game plan.

Luckily, we were able to Ask a Pro – those most familiar with The Reserve at Paradisus La Perla in Riviera Maya – for some Hotel Confidential tips on how guests should spend a long weekend at their luxury resort. Here’s how they suggest visitors break down how they enjoy the long list of amenities to make the most of their vacation.

Day 1

Book a transfer from the airport ahead of time to ensure a seamless delivery right to the lobby of The Reserve at Paradisus La Perla. Travel Impressions and Apple Vacations automatically include this with their bookings for convenience; those booking with Funjet Vacations can add round-trip transfers with Amstar, ALGV’s top recommendation for ground transportation and tours in the Cancun region.

Should you get there early enough, get into vacation mode at La Palapa with breakfast. This venue is for guests of The Reserve portion of the resort only, which makes it a private place to unwind from your travels. Same goes for your next stop, The Reserve’s private pool, where refreshing drinks are made right in the water at the swim-up bar. For afternoon arrivals, start here and grab a snack with your drink.

Once feeling a bit more revived, sign up for one of the curated activities that take place at the property. This Destination Inclusive® bonus is an added value also just for The Reserve’s guests, and is a great way to get immersed in Riviera Maya’s culture right away. Experiences can include anything from a private experience in a cenote, complete with participation in a shaman-led Mayan ritual, or touring a cavern. Also, go ahead and book a spa treatment for Day 3.

Then cap off the day with a dinner at Fuego restaurant, which serves Latin fusion cuisine and features a dedicated ceviche bar. Move on to a vibrant evening at South Avenue Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails keep you refreshed as you take part in dynamic entertainment like the Silent Party silent disco.

Day 2

You should find yourself relatively refreshed after spending the night in The Reserve’s upgraded rooms. These spacious suites that feature whirlpool tubs, rainfall showers, feather pillows, and thick mattresses dressed in posh linens – perfect for sleeping off a day of travel and night of revelry. But if you require a jump-start, find it at Coffee Corner by Nespresso, which offers a variety of specialty coffees and to-go meals.

Alternatively, this is a great morning to visit Hadar, the buffet, if you want to start your day on a more robust note. They have coffee there, too, but a wide array of options will be more fortifying.

Next, make your way over to The Reserve’s exclusive beach for your post-breakfast rest. The soothing sounds of waves and warm sun will be enough to lull you into a sense of contentment that will keep you happily immobile until you’re ready to check out the Fahrenheit pool bar or have a snack served to you.

Well-recovered, the afternoon is a great time slot for your Destination Inclusive® experience you’d booked the day before. After that, refuel your adrenaline stores at the smoothie bar, where delicious and nutritious blends are designed to help you recharge.

Tonight, have dinner at Mole, a contemporary, family-friendly Mexican restaurant for a taste of local flavors. Get to know the country through its cuisine and watch kids’ faces light up with joy as they discover its vibrant flavors. Or, watch plenty of adults experience that same kind of childlike excitement at the adults-only Banna restaurant’s teppanyaki table. Dine here with them or at the sushi bar or dining room for Asian fusion.

Before going back to bed, it’s a good idea to unwind a little. Pop over to the Kicks Bar, where you can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and come back down from the day’s thrills with a favorite cocktail.

Day 3

Start this day off in leisure and luxury. Order room service for delivery right to your suite at The Reserve, and dine on your terrace in one of the plush robes supplied in your closet. Now that you’ve experienced both the beach and the pool of The Reserve, decide which one requires a second visit. Today might be a great one for trying some included water sports until La Palapa opens for lunch, where we recommend you order as sumptuously as the menu inspires you to. But keep an eye on the time – you want to make sure you give yourself enough time to really indulge in the guided water ritual of hydrotherapy at the Yhi Spa before your appointment.

Fully relaxed, time to dive into another set of senses at Sal Steak Cave, which showcases innovative roasting techniques and fine gastronomy. As a guest of The Reserve, you’re entitled to one complimentary dinner at this banner restaurant per stay, while all other guests of Paradisus La Perla must be a supplement.

End your night at Kanna Bar with handcrafted cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere to bring it back to those spa day vibes, or end with evening entertainment. There’s always something going on at the resort, whether it’s live music, a dance performance, or themed dinner event. Immerse yourself in the liveliness of the property to enjoy one last memorable evening before heading home.

Day 4

Make the last day unforgettable. Start by getting up early for maybe a yoga class, then savor the morning over a leisurely breakfast. This might be a good opportunity for some quiet time by the pool or beach, where you can think about getting into any last-minute activities that caught your eye. Tick snorkeling, paddleboarding, fitness classes, or exploring nearby attractions; see if you can squeeze in a cooking class before departure so that you can skip airport food with your belly full and satisfied.

If you’re lucky enough to catch an evening flight, head to a scenic spot to watch the sunset. Grab a cocktail or glass or wine to toast to the end of a wonderful vacation … and to planning your visit back.