A major aspect of the all inclusive is the social element. It's fun to be around other people. Even if you only want to have brief conversations, there's something to be said just for people watching. I'd also say I had more conversations with actual Mexicans, both locals and staff, staying in resorts, than I've had staying outside them. Outside the resort you see more people walking on the street?
Plus, the proximity to a beach is typically something you don't get outside of a resort. The ability to go from pool to beach immediately is great.
I also strongly disagree with the being stuck in the resort complaint. That's no more true than if you were staying at a non-resort place. You just have to put a bit of effort into booking an excursion outside of the hotel.
As for price, yes, a lot of the time you are paying more. You are also getting all of your meals prepared and the ability to just walk up to a bar in a club/bar/beach atmosphere and get as many pre-prepared drinks as you want, and with far more variety than you'd have at home. The food will get to you for its repetitiveness, but the quality of all inclusive food has gotten vastly better over the last 8 years or so.
Honestly, it's a question of what you want. If you want more privacy/seclusion then don't stay in a beach. If you want to lay on a beach and do nothing (for at least part of the trip) and/or socialize then stay in a resort.
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