A gala dinner is a special festive dinner that some resorts require guests to pay for when they stay on certain nights, especially Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. It is charged per person, on top of the room rate. Whether it is compulsory should be stated in your quote.
A useful companion read is Christmas and New Year surcharge.
Why does gala dinner matter for us?
For two people, a compulsory gala dinner can add a sizeable amount to the trip, and it may be charged for children too if you travel as a family. Check also what the evening involves, as some feature alcohol, loud music or a late finish. Muslim couples may prefer to ask about halal food and a quieter option.
How does gala dinner show up in a quote?
A booking may include “Compulsory gala dinner, 24 December and 31 December, per person”. If your stay covers one of these nights, the dinner charge is added to your total. Ask whether the dinner is optional on any night, and what you receive for the price, such as a set menu, drinks or entertainment.
What should we ask about gala dinner?
Put these questions to the resort or agent, and ask for the answers in writing:
- Is the gala dinner compulsory for our dates, and how much for two?
- Can we skip it and eat at a normal restaurant instead?
- Is the menu halal-friendly, and is alcohol served at our table?
- Is the dinner included in our room rate or charged on top?
Where to go next
Two more pages help you check the rest: package blackout dates and extra honeymoon costs couples miss. Send us the quote and we will go through it with you.