American Plan
The American Plan (AP), also known as the full-board plan, is a pricing arrangement provided by hotels and similar hospitality establishments, where the cost of accommodation includes the room, three meals, and sometimes additional services. This plan is especially favored by business travelers and tourists who prefer an all-inclusive package to simplify budgeting and ensure a seamless travel experience.
Examples
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Business Conference: A business hotel offers attendees an American Plan package that includes a room, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and access to the hotel’s conference facilities.
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Vacation Resort: A family vacation resort provides an American Plan that incorporates room accommodations, three daily meals at different on-site restaurants, access to swimming pools, and entertainment activities.
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Mountain Lodge: A mountain lodge attracts hikers with an American Plan, covering the cost of a room, hearty meals cooked with local ingredients, and guided tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the American Plan differ from the European Plan?
A: The American Plan includes the room and three meals, whereas the European Plan generally covers only the room, with meals charged separately.
Q: Are beverages included in the American Plan?
A: Typically, non-alcoholic beverages are included with meals, but alcoholic drinks may be charged separately, depending on the hotel’s policies.
Q: Can special dietary requirements be accommodated under the American Plan?
A: Many hotels offering the American Plan can accommodate special dietary needs; it is advisable to inform the hotel in advance of your requirements.
- Modified American Plan (MAP): A hotel pricing arrangement that includes the room, breakfast, and either lunch or dinner.
- European Plan (EP): A hotel pricing arrangement that includes only the room, with meals and other services obtained separately.
- All-Inclusive Plan: A plan that includes the room, all meals, beverages, and most on-site activities within the price.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Hospitality Management: A Complete Introduction” by Jordi Quan - Offers a broad overview of different pricing plans and their applications in the hospitality industry.
- “The Business of Hospitality: A Guide to Total Quality Management in the Service Sector” by Jaime Denovo - Discusses the broader context of hospitality management, including different accommodation plans.
- “Hotel Planning and Design” by Walter A. Rutes - Provides insights into how different pricing arrangements can impact hotel design and guest experience.
Fundamentals of the American Plan: Hospitality Industry Basics Quiz
### What is included in the American Plan offered by hotels?
- [ ] Only the room
- [ ] Just breakfast and the room
- [x] Room, three meals, and services
- [ ] Room and additional amenities only
> **Explanation:** The American Plan includes the room, three meals, and sometimes additional services, providing a comprehensive package for travelers.
### How does the American Plan compare to the European Plan?
- [x] American Plan includes meals; European Plan does not.
- [ ] Both plans include meals.
- [ ] Neither plan includes meals.
- [ ] European Plan includes all meals; American Plan does not.
> **Explanation:** The American Plan includes the cost of meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) along with the room accommodation, whereas the European Plan includes only the room.
### Which meal arrangements are typically provided under the American Plan?
- [ ] Breakfast only
- [ ] Breakfast and dinner
- [x] Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- [ ] Lunch and dinner
> **Explanation:** The American Plan typically provides three meals daily—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—along with the room.
### Is the American Plan beneficial for business travelers?
- [x] Yes, it offers convenience and simplicity in budgeting.
- [ ] No, business travelers usually prefer à la carte dining.
- [ ] Yes, but only for short stays.
- [ ] No, it is more beneficial for leisure travelers.
> **Explanation:** The American Plan offers convenience and simplifies budgeting for business travelers by including meals and room costs in one package.
### Which of the following is NOT a feature of the American Plan?
- [x] Meals at off-site locations
- [ ] Three daily meals included
- [ ] Room accommodation
- [ ] On-site services
> **Explanation:** The American Plan includes meals and accommodation within the hotel premises, not at off-site locations.
### Can guests expect beverages to be included in the American Plan?
- [ ] All beverages including alcohol
- [ ] Only alcoholic beverages
- [ ] No beverages
- [x] Typically, non-alcoholic beverages with meals
> **Explanation:** Generally, non-alcoholic beverages are included with meals under the American Plan, while alcoholic drinks might incur additional charges.
### Why might a family choose an American Plan for their vacation stay?
- [x] For the simplicity and convenience of having all meals included.
- [ ] To avoid any meal costs.
- [ ] To dine out at local restaurants.
- [ ] For a room-only option.
> **Explanation:** Families might choose the American Plan for the convenience of having all meals included, making the vacation easier to manage.
### What type of hotel guest benefits the most from an American Plan?
- [x] Guests who prefer all-inclusive meals and services.
- [ ] Guests who plan to eat all meals outside.
- [ ] Guests with no specific meal preferences.
- [ ] Guests on a strictly room-only budget.
> **Explanation:** Guests who prefer an all-inclusive package that covers room and all meals benefit the most from the American Plan.
### How is accommodation priced under the American Plan in a typical mountain lodge?
- [ ] It varies by season.
- [x] It includes meals and possibly guided tours.
- [ ] It depends on the length of stay.
- [ ] Only room costs are included.
> **Explanation:** In a typical mountain lodge under the American Plan, the accommodation price includes meals, and possibly additional services such as guided tours.
### Which term relates most closely to the American Plan in terms of meal inclusion?
- [ ] Bed and Breakfast Plan
- [ ] Continental Plan
- [x] Full-Board Plan
- [ ] Half-Board Plan
> **Explanation:** The term "Full-Board Plan" is closely related to the American Plan, both of which include the room and three meals.
Thank you for exploring the details and comprehensive understanding of the American Plan. Challenge your knowledge with our quiz to ensure a deep grasp of hospitality arrangements!
