An extra is confirmed when the resort itself has written that it will provide it, on your dates, under your names. Anything less is a promise from the seller or a request. Collect that written line before you fly.
This guide is part of our trust and enquiries topic, on checking before you pay or travel.
What counts as proof?
Think of four steps on a ladder. Aim for the top one.
| Step | What you hold | How strong |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | A verbal promise or chat message from the seller | Weakest |
| 2 | The extra written on the quote or invoice | Better, still the seller’s word |
| 3 | The extra on a voucher from the seller | Better, still not the resort |
| 4 | A message or email from the resort naming the extra, date and your names | Strongest |
Our guide on request versus confirmed explains why step four matters.
Which extras need checking?
Check each one separately, because each can fail alone:
- Room decor or flowers.
- A private or special dinner.
- Late check-out or early check-in.
- A room upgrade or a specific view.
- Airport pick-up, a cake, a photographer.
Write each in your note with its date and time. A vague “romantic package” is not a list.
What should the resort’s message say?
It should name you and the extra in the same sentence. A useful line reads like this: “Room 204, Aisha and Daniel, 12 to 15 March, decor on arrival and a dinner on the 13th at 7 pm.”
If the resort only says “noted”, ask whether the extra is held or only recorded as a wish. Our email template for confirming perks gives wording you can copy.
What do we ask for, and when?
Use this countdown:
- At booking: ask for each extra to be listed in the confirmation.
- About two weeks before: ask the resort to reply with each extra and the date.
- About one week before: check for changes in staff, rooms or opening days.
- Two days before: save every message as screenshots, online and offline.
What if the resort cannot confirm?
Ask what would be offered instead, and who decides. If the substitute is weaker, tell the seller before you travel. You can then agree a fix or a refund in writing, rather than arguing at the front desk.
Some extras may have a price, so ask what each add-on should cost and check that your quote matches.
What should we do next?
- List every extra with its date and time.
- Mark which step of the ladder each one has reached.
- Ask the seller, with the resort copied, to reach step four.
- Keep the replies in one folder, and bring a screenshot to check-in.