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Stop waiting for the perfect time of year for your ultimate island getaway. The
Dominican Republic's Lifestyle Tropical
...
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Stop waiting for the perfect time of year for your ultimate island getaway. The
Dominican Republic's Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort has seductive tropical
breezes and golden sunshine year round. This budget-friendly resort rests upon
the sands of beautiful Cofresi Beach in Puerta Plata, amidst Caribbean-style,
thatched roofs and cobblestone walkways, comfortably blending in with the
towering mountain ranges and the sparkling hues of the ocean.
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"My husband and I spent 5 wonderful nights at this resort in November. We were fortunate enough to get the $10.00 a night deal at the resort. I was a little apprehensive at first, but boy are we glad we..." – DealSeekers
1,895 out of 2,628 (72%) customers would recommend this product to a friend.Read All Reviews
Customer Rating
Value
4.1
Service
3.8
Beaches & Pools
4.0
Dining Options
3.2
Room Comfort
3.2
"My husband and I spent 5 wonderful nights at this resort in November. We were fortunate enough to get the $10.00 a night deal at the resort. I was a little apprehensive at first, but boy are we glad we..." – DealSeekers
1,895 out of 2,628 (72%) customers would recommend this product to a friend.
All Customer Reviews
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April 18, 2018
Good value with some drawbacks.
Beach and pool was great. Lots of choices for meals. Breakfast was especially good, coffee was excellant. Lunch and Dinner were good once you learned what to stay away from (anything with chunks of meat were not good). We went to 3 of the Restaurants you had to make reservations for, and the service and quality of food was good, although my wife got sick the day after we ate at the Brazilian restaurant. (We also had an excursion to Paradise Island that day where they served food; we did have a really good time, and the snorkling was really good.) They had carving stations that had pretty good quality meats, but the turkey was over cooked. Pasta station was very good. The beer was good, but the wine was of poor quality. Mixed drinks were made with low shelf liquors, but you could find something that is drinkable. Lots of planned activities, but the noise level on our room was too loud and uncomfortable. The room we had was a good size and centrally located, but dated. The air conditioner leaked, with water running down the wall and water pooling on the floor. The small refridgerator had a loud buzzing noise which came on frequently. Tub stopper did not work, so could not take a bath. The guys trying to get us to go on a tour of the various properties which was also a sales pitch for the time shares were annoying. We declined going on the tour, but were constantly hassled.
From:New Hope, PA Age:Over 65 Travel:3-6 trips/year
April 16, 2018
Very relaxing
I just returned from a week in the DR and am pleased with my experience with the resort. I traveled solo and have done so for years so my experience reflects one woman's view. The resort was very nicely kept and the beaches and pools were many. The sand in front of Confresi was quite nice and it was easy to pull a chaise down right onto the beach. I would have liked to have seen more trees or umbrellas to protect one from the sun. There are plenty of chaise lounges and beds with sun covers further back from the beach. The pools were clean and busy but not too crowded. The food was fine and the help was excellent.
Thought the room was dated (doesn't bother me a bit) it was nicely cleaned each day. I found several things challenging: the lack of hot water on a consistent basis, a VERY hard bed and not a single hook in the bathroom or any of the toilets around the resort.
The resort was clean, the employees were nice and very helpful. Plenty of Beach space, lots of seating, beautiful pools and views. I can't wait to go back! Thank you CheapCarribean for this amazing experience at a phenomenal price, couldn't be happier!
I was very pleased with practically all aspects of the Cheap Caribbean experience.
American Airlines had a weather related flight cancellation which wound up putting us in a different city than we were supposed to arrive at.
Cheap Caribbean sent a van and a driver to pick us up two hours away from our resort. I am not a huge fan of the road quality or Road construction safety practices in the Dominican Republic. But we arrived safely anyway.
I was pleasantly surprised by the food at Lifestyles Tropical Resorts. I had read several reviews before traveling and was a bit nervous about the food at the buffet.
Breakfast was anything anyone could ever ask for unless you just had to have a bagel or an english muffin in the morning. Fresh fruit and an omelette chef, in my opinion, are a great start to any breakfast experience.
I read several reviews before traveling in which vacationers were complaining about getting bored with burgers and pizza every day. I guess the folks weren’t interested in the myriad of local foods that were delicious. I actually tried a burger late in our stay and found it ok. Pizza under a heat lamp is as expected- you gotta get ‘em while they’re hot.
The excursions we chose were excellent as was our guide, Dan Marino.(Not the former quarterback)City tour and waterfall adventure.
There were a few drawbacks.
The beach was not the white sand-crystal blue water that I was expecting. But we managed.
The tap water doesn’t get chlorinated or get fluoride treatment and it’s easy to forget to only use bottled water for brushing. Also, I don’t expect to ever get used to putting soiled toilet paper in a trash can instead of flushing it. But we weren’t in America so we had to adapt.
Also the timeshare salesman were everywhere and were persistent. But we rolled with the punches and still had an enjoyable experience.
We met lots of great people!
From:Wear Virginia Age:45-54 Travel:1-2 trips/year
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267 questions, 1,363 answers.
Does this resort have safes in their rooms?12 answers
If so, how much do they cost and are they electronic or do they have a key?
7 years, 87 months ago
SunnyBeaches
All of the rooms at Lifestyle Tropical Beach have safes in the closet. They cost $3.00 a day to use. Most of the rooms have electronic safes that you set your own password for, however there are still some that have a key (these are mostly in section 1 of the resort).
KateCC
Yes 3dollars per day
catfish
$3 per day, they're electronic and can be reset by any of the staff who know the default code. Use with caution!!!
Jae0221
$3/day, key safe. we used and had no problems with the security of items placed in the safe
sandonmyfeet
Yes, with key at $3 per day. Well worth it.
abrunette70
Yes, the safe was small, but useable. The fee was $3.00 a day, but well worth it. It has a key lock.
Bunky
Yes, I think it's 3 dollars a day. You pay for key at lobby.
Violette4774
Yes they do have safes but I didn't ask the price because I didn't use one
Fatcat
YES. It is $3.00 per day and uses a key
islandman
Yes they do. They are $3 a day. Key not electronic. and they are a little small. my 13" laptop didn't fit, but a netbook probably would.
verdugo
Mix of both some have combinations and are free. The rooms needing keys for safes are $3 a nite.
Hyenergy
There is a safe in the closet that uses a key. However there is a $20 fee for the week.
smac
There are safes but they cost extra. I believe the price was $3/day or $20/week. I did not use it. Nothing was ever missing from my room.
atk0224
Is there wifi at this hotel? And do you have to pay for it?12 answers
7 years, 86 months ago
Colin
This resort does have internet access, but not in the rooms, and there is an addtional charge.
KateCC
yes
catfish
No. You have to pay to get a card to access their computers which are $5USD for 30 minutes.
Jae0221
Free wifi at VIP beach. You can take your lap tops to one of the beds and use it or go to the small bar area but usually its hard to get a seat there. You can use wifi in their lobby or their computers at $8 US an hour.
abrunette70
You can use their computers for a fee. We did not.
Bunky
Only at the VIP Beach - otherwise you pay 5 USD a half and hour for computer/internet in lobby.
Violette4774
Yes it is available but I don't know if it cost but I don't think so. I saw people by the pool with their laptops and I think the info I received said you could get it all over the resort and they also had computer available in the lobby but I never used one there so I didn't ask about the cost
Fatcat
There is WIFI in the main lobby for $5 per half hour or free WIFI on the VIP beach, you have to be pretty close to the sushi bar. They do have places to sit at the bar overlooking the beach and ocean if you didn't get a spot on the beach close enough to connect to wifi.
verdugo
Free Wifi only at VIP beach. Expensive otherwise in front lobby
Hyenergy
THERE IS WIFI IN THE LOBBY AND YOU HAVE TO PAY $8 FOR AN HOUR. IF YOU BECOME A MEMBER YOU CAN ACESS WIFI IN THE VIP AREAS FOR FREE.
RRfdc
you can get wi fi for $5/day up in the lobby area. If you go thru Cheap Carribbean and/or are a VIP member some other way, there is free WiFi down at the VIP beach
sixela
There is wifi near at the Sushi bar at the VIP beach. It was free but only available from 9am-5pm daily. They shut it down at night.
atk0224
How much is an average cab ride from the Santiago Airport?11 answers
We may be flying into Santiago, instead of Puerto Plata, and was curious to see how much a cab fare will cost per person, both roundtrip and one-way from the Santiago International Airport?
7 years, 86 months ago
Sean
Arranging your transportation in advance is highly recommended! This must be done no later than 48 hour prior to arrival. Taxis are available but may not be metered. If you were to add transfers to your package from Santiago airport instead it would be $45.50 per person each way. This would be a private vehicle for 2. The Turinter Tours representative will help you make the best of your holidays and will assist you by providing helpful information about the hotel, surrounding areas, local customs and more.
They can also reserve optional tours and return airport transfers.
KellyCC
Don"t the answer for the cab, we went through Turniter tours and it was $35.00 each way.
smd307
$100.00 total one way.
islandman
I would think that it would be very expensive.
A cab from the resort to the town less than 20 miles,they wanted $35US.I told them to forget about it.
Martino
Not sure, but would advise against it. That is a lot of driving time. Local cab fair in Puerto Plata is $30-$50 depending where you go in the area. From what I hear it may be cheaper to rent a car and drive. But driving in DR is a risk of life if you are not from there. Just my thought.
afrijewel
We went with turinter tours for 37.50 each round trip. We heard later that the taxi ride is $45.00 one way, so for $13.00 extra (round trip) we could have taken a taxi, which I would recommend, especially if you have more than 2 in your party because you will actually SAVE money.
JakeandNancy
Our friends took the car service I used and paid 100.00 1 way from resort to airport, Nice mini van, nice driver. I paid 45.00 eachway to the resort from Puerto Plata airport.
ChickBiker
A cab ride would be expensive. If you can have a cab take you to Caribe Express bus services it is like Greyhound for DR and hop on the bus that takes you to Puerto Plata. It is 5 American Dollars per person and the bus is really comfortable inside. Once the bus stop in Sosua Puerto Plata you can take a cab from there to the resort which will be about 10 dollars. Also consider flying directly into Puerto Plata. Nice airport.
WendyV
$100 per each way,, horrible ride.....
beachboatguy
$110 one way.
DJDJ
The Taxi fare will be around 50 to 75 dollars. I hear people take a taxi to the Santiago bus station or (Carib Tours) and the ride to Puerto Plata is about 5 or 6 dollars, then a taxi to the resort is 15 or 20 dollars.. Gas there is 5.50 to 6 dollars a gallon... not cheap.
Beachlover1482
$70 regular car, and van for 10 people $110 average... good taxi driver I use him in my 2 trips: Emilio 809-703-7035 or 829-452-3048 from Santiago or Pto Plata. Good luck.
MARCELA
Its a one hour drive. The road is in good shape and there is signs along the way to keep you on the right track, plus the hotel is next to the main road your coming in on.You should consider renting a car for about $30 a day which will give you the flexibulity to move around plus you can get one of the entertainers at the hotel to show you around.At the end it will be more convienent and cheaper than taking a cab. Call this taxi driver he have a nice mini van good rates and might be cheaper cel 809 499-4184 and see what rates he will work out with you.
jbrassingtong
If you are using CheapCaribbean.com to book, i believe one of their options are to chose transportation to and from. I would recommend using that. You are greeted at the airport (make sure its who you booked) and take it from there (plus alittle tip is always in good nature)
ReNzozNeR
Some reviews sound wonderful, but I'm concerned because the price is so low. Is this a well kept, clean resort? Is the staff accomodating?12 answers
7 years, 85 months ago
bostontraveler
Cheap Caribbean has a great relationship with this resort - that's what keeps the price so low. The staff is helpful, the rooms are clean, and the beach is nice.
JenCC
very clean and very nice, just say yea to the economy
2travel
Yes, very clean, very accomodating. The price is so low because you will be asked to take a tour and you will be pitched a vacation package. The package is not a time share and it is reasonably priced. We said "No" however and there was no high pressure to buy and we were treated exactly the same after refusing the offer. You will be asked several times to take the "tour" so get it over with at the beginning of the week and remember the name of your tour guide and then just tell any one else that asks you that you already toured.
JakeandNancy
Great resort, just don't get sucked into the "informational tour/timeshare" stuff if you don't want to see it and take the time.
ChickBiker
You should be happy for the price I found It one of the nicer and cleaner resorts I have been in in Dominican Republic
BiggSexy
price is low, because they want to get you there -- once there, you have to go to this presentation to sell you the vacation club........other than that minor inconvenience, everything else is great -- beautiful grounds, clean rooms, friendly staff.........language barrier can be frustrating, though, if you don't speak spanish & the food wasn't great, but everything else is absolutely beautiful!!!
cowriteme
We wondered the same thing....but it was GREAT.
SoulRevival
Yes, this is a very clean, well kept resort with outstanding staff. It was explained to us (after the fact) that the promotional price is justified by Lifestyles presenting you with a very agressive sales pitch to buy inot their Vacation Club.
MIA11
I was a little worried myself. The resort is amazing! My friend and I still can't figure out how in the world they can afford to keep doing it. We actually asked one of the timeshare tour guides and he said they recieved a huge grant from CheapCaribbean.
Beachbum31
This resort is amazingly clean. I was surprised by the price myself. You are literally buying a piece of paradise for a very small price. The food is excellent , not to mention the drinks, they also have shows almost every night of the week. Room service was excellent and many of the staff have been working there for 4 years or more and are extremely friendly. You will love it no doubt about it.
WendyV
Very well kept. Clean&gorgeous grounds! Smaller resort, but they have plans to add on soon, so go now! The food is just okay, but we all found plenty to eat! No one got ill and the staff in the restaurants was very busy. The buffets cooks are sooo slow, so you do wait for the" grill to order" foods, but they're probably the freshest. Didn't like the wine and the mixed drinks are done right if you request the better labels!
workoutgal
The resort is fine, the surrounding area is very poor, hence the low prices. Don't leave the resort on your own, especially if you are white.
dolphin
We had the same worries and got very happily surprised. Would go back again if we got the same deal, or even at double the price. Very clean resort, houskeeping staff does a good job, cleans the rooms every day the staff is very nice and accomodating.
Svenskarna
Who did you tip to get a bed?11 answers
Who can you tip to reserve a bed for you so you dont have to wait in line and how much? Who do you tip to get reservation without fighting for them and hoe much?
7 years, 85 months ago
EdHPU
You can't do that. Everyone has to wait in line and it's first come first serve. (we tried!) Lines are not bad and as long as you're there by 7:30/7:45am you get your pick of beds. There are beds in the direct sun that most people don't reserve which you can typically grab at various times during the day. You'll end up spending most of your day in the cold tubs anyway :)
cms228
I did not tip, there are enough beds and lines were short
2travel
Just tip one of the pool guys and I just got back and getting a dinner time was not too hard to get but buffet was great different every day
bobtpd541
The first day I needlessly waited in line because I was out walking around. There are a lot of beds and lots of different types. Queen size, King size, close to ground, higher off ground, bunk beds, shaded. Unless you are really particular, there are always plenty to chose from. One day I was on one with no shade and wanted shaded but I didn;t even get up to look around, I just moved to shaded when one nearby came open. Not nearly as chaotic as I imagined
ChickBiker
Why would you not want to get up at 6:30 to get your spot on the beach???
Not aware of being able to tip staff to get your spot.
Take your running shoes with you. All the reviews about VIP Bech are real. :-)
Jasnowidz
We didn't tip anybody. Doors opened at 8:00 and we went down there about 7:20 and waited. No problem
SoulRevival
The bed was not as comfortable as a US hotel bed but it was good enough and room service was there everyday which was great.
WendyV
I had no problem getting a bed - first day I went down early and got one, and after that I went later around lunch - however - resort not extremely crowded - they said the busiest time is Dec-Feb for President's Day - I imagine it's tough then.
NJSun
No tip we just waited in line like everyone else.
pepk
get up early and put something on the bed and no one will bother it
tomkathie
First come first serve Just pot some of your cloths on it then go to breakfast.
bball
First come first serve unless you belong to thier vacation club.
shygal4730
If you want to get a canopy bed, you have to go down there around 7:30 in the morning. They open at 8:00 a.m. If not, you'll just get a bed in the sun. Not too much shade at the VIP beach.
jetset317
Is this a good resort for families/are there kids' activities? We have 14, 12 and 8 y/o11 answers
Is there an age restriction on the VIP beach?
7 years, 85 months ago
mooshu
The Kids Club seems for those a little younger, though I heard they did some offsite activities with kids such as horseback riding and Ocean World. Ocean World is definitely appearling to kids but won't keep you busy for a solid full day. Kids should have plenty of fun in the ocean and pools though...
I have heard there is a teen program but didn't see any of it myself.
There are a lot of family tours outside the resort though. I heard "27 waterfalls" is a good one.
smfam
no
2travel
This is an excellent resort for familes. They have a kid's club, kid's pool, etc. Also, for the most part, it is a very nice atmosphere. The music is reasonable and the entertainment is acceptable. I did not see any children on the VIP beach, so I'm guessing that there probably is an age restriction for that area.
JakeandNancy
It is definitely a good family resort, I was there with my son (1 year old) and my wife and her parents. and the vip area did not restrict my son from being there and also other children.
WillyTCI
There were no age restrictions at the VIP beach. Most families wanted to be around the pools but families were at the VIP beach as well. It was great.
SoulRevival
I saw lots of families there having a blast! I felt a bit guilty for not bringing my kids along. The pool staff have competitions everyday at the pool and the kids love it, there are shallow pools for smaller kids, plenty of things to rent at the beach to play in the water, boat rides, one boat pulls a huge inflatable raft behind it while about 5-6 kids sit on it and they seem to love it. One downer is, I saw a few teenagers drunk off their keesters, I don't think the bartenders have restrictions on who they can serve.
Beachbum31
Hi Mooshu,
I actually took my 15 year old son with me. There is no restriction on the VIP beach area. If you are a member of the resort there is a separate VIP area as well. Also there are plenty of activities for kids several pools and much to do on the resort itself. Water sports, motor scooters. Ocean world, tours. Quite a bit to get involved in there are also poolside activities and games. They can also never complain of being hungry because you can obtain food up to 4am in at least one of the resort restaurants.
WendyV
Great, safe family resort! The activities team go all out to entertain the kids and get them involved. The cliff jump, and waterslide in the pool are a blast. Volleyball and catamaran, kayaks, boogey boards and even bocce on the beach. The shows at night are fun too!
workoutgal
Yes, the resort is family oriented, especially on the weekends, when the locals bring their families to the resort
theman4u
yes, good for kids; no, no restriction
dolphin
It's OK
there's ping pong, fuse ball machine, board games - no video games - & surprisingly there are very few english channels on the TV - although they had Disney channel - pool volleyball & basketball games - a banana boat on the beach $10/pp -- I went to Ocean World w/my 15 yr old daughter - it was much better than I expected. Also, signed up for ATV Funny bikes but didn't do it - no age restriction on the beach -
NJSun
do they have suites with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms?11 answers
Would like a 4 or 5 star resort for oct. 2011. Montego bay or cayman island preferable. (maybe bahamas)
7 years, 85 months ago
Andy
If you click on the "Hotels" tab on our homepage, then follow the link for "Resort Finder" you will be able to sort through the hotels based on numerous criteria like destination and room type.
KellyCC
Yes. They have single rooms, double rooms, suites, villas and on up from there!
JakeandNancy
They have suites and other accomodations up to 14 people. Find out all-inclusive options.
Jasnowidz
I do not know about the suites. I would select Montego Bay.
MaxAmillion
Yes they have beautiful villas and suites. You will love this place. Really amazing.
WendyV
write to me beachboatguy@yahoo.com,, lots of resorts to choose from 2 bedrooms carribean etc
beachboatguy
Andy, go to Grand Paladium Jamaica, they have it all , book through Cheap Caribbean.. Been there many times and it's a great resort
RedBaron
Go for the 6 bed villa with your own breakfast/lunch chef..awesome
drbenz
I don't think so. The rooms are just average... not 4 or 5 star.
jetset317
From what I saw, there were no 2 bedrooms suites through Cheapcaribbean.com. It looked as though only if you came through a timeshare program, you could get those. Also, I gave this resort 2 stars, so I am not sure it fits your criteria.
ImperfectPerfection
This is not a 4 or 5 star resort by any means, not sure if they have the suites you are looking for but I can tell you it is not a 4 or 5 star at all!
LovesTheWater
This resort have about five resort combined on one facility but separated based on the degree of luxury your looking for.Some people come on the shuttle service and leave by lemo or helicopter based on the upgrade they want.There is a time share area as well. YOu could take a $20. special with a vip pass if its available and attend a time share meeting if you like and work out a upgrade which is cheaper than most places.
jbrassingtong
What's the rate for a massage?11 answers
7 years, 85 months ago
SE
$50 for 25 mins beach side but they will give you a discount =)
Feriona
Comparable to what you would pay in the US.
I had a manicure, pedicure, facial and hair treatment at the spa for $139.00 US Dollars.
JakeandNancy
87 an hour
bobtpd541
$ 60 - $ 150
Solecito22
Did not take a massage, was too busy moving around the resort
WillyTCI
56.00 and I think that was for 35 minutes. Husband had a massage and loved.. The Spa rates were reasonalbe
ChickBiker
for 25 min 2 people 80 dollars. for 2 people coconut scrub with 10 min sauna 10 min jacuzzi and 40 min full massage 160 dollars
BiggSexy
It was about 30 for an hr
WendyV
$80 at the Hotel for 1hr. You could get it for $70 if you ordered from one of the hotel sales guys at the beach.
Right at the beach, not part of the hotel, $40 for 1 hr.
Svenskarna
don't know, they had 2 tables on the beach. --- Everything is negotiable here --- I got a "okay" facial for $61 (book price was $80)
NJSun
$45:00
bball
How is the snorkeling at the hotel?11 answers
6 years, 85 months ago
Lynn
If you use Turinter travel which is available through the hotel. we had a great trip and we were able to see sting rays and very safe nurse sharks as well as the coral reef.
rconn
Not good. We paid extra for the snorkel trip to the wildlife preservation and that was worth the trip! Book the trip with the tour reps. in the lobby and they are very helpful.
workoutgal
The snorkeling on the general (not VIP-only) beach is not so good - waves, sand, and rocks, very low visibility, though there is some small fish around the rocks if you manage to see it. Plenty of shells. They say that the VIP-only beach is better (calmer waters), did not get to try it.
The trip to Paradise Island offers great snorkeling, but it takes over two hours to get there by their third-world-bus and their thirld-world-hold-on-for-your-life motorboat (quite an experience), and you need to bring your own water (they don't tell you that and make you buy it!)
dolphin
water was warm but kind of murky - I would say snorkling's not great
NJSun
Sorry, I am scared to put my head under water, only standing level, lol!!!
Nutmeg1st
right on the beach, not great, on a tour it's good
tomkathie
Yes, not complimentary. Lots of info on hotel website
gidge
It is better on Serenety Beach area, and the resort bus is constantly back and for.
remb
Not great - some people borrowed gear from the resort, but there's not much to see. Would recommend going on a catamaran tour (I think it was around $80-90) if you want a better experience. There were a few people with boogey boards and inner tubes, but most people didn't stay in the water too long.
Vonatron
There are certainly fish just off the beach and there were people snorkeling, but there's not perfect snorkeling conditions like Seven Mile Beach in Cayman. The coral reef is only about 1/2 mile off-shore and the hotel staff will take you out for a 2-hr trip for $45 US. Well worth it.
RockyMtnSunseeker
Right down from the hotel, not so great, too big waves and stirred up water. We did go snorkeling at the eastern part of the beach, the reefs are closer, water calmer and clearer. Not the best snorkling, dead reefs, but plenty of fish.
Svenskarna
The reefs at paradise island was the best snorkeling from land in the caribbean..simply awesome!
drbenz
Hi Lynn, I didn't snorkle but the water looked very cloudy and green.
Thedogsoftravel
Do you still get all the VIP anemities if you refuse to go on the tour and take the sales pitch?13 answers
6 years, 85 months ago
mj
Customers booking this resort exclusively thru CheapCaribbean.com will receive the following VIP amenities (offer subject to change without notice):
- Access to VIP Beach Area - includes top shelf liquors, sushi bar, 2 jacuzzi's and wait-service for food and beverage from sun beds
- Access to the Thursday Ocean World Party - This special party takes place every Thursday at Ocean World and includes free transportation from and back to the hotel, dinner, live band, drinks, free admission to Bravissimo show and free admission to the Casino & Lighthouse disco (drinks are NOT included). Weather permitting. Day of week of party subject to change.
- Sunday Welcome Party - this is a very special party and takes place every Sunday in the Peninsula area with a nice ocean view. Includes, gala dinner buffet, International drinks (same variety as in the VIP Beach), live band, Carnival show, Dancer & Singer show (Berenice), spectacular fireworks show. Weather permitting. Day of week of party subject to change.
LauraCC
Maybe that is why our "butler" was so useless. He was not friendly and we were told his day off was Thur. so it was up to us to reserve our palapa. He did nothing for us but reserve the palapas on 3 days. I'm not sure if we missed out on any other "perks", but Platinum is a joke.
workoutgal
yes......only advantage of going on tour (to me) was immediately getting to book your restaurants (besides the buffet)
vacationlover2011
YES
keywestcougar
you are suppose to, but the staff will keep bugging you until you hear the sales pitch. if you are not interested say no,
theman4u
as far as I know you do; the bracelet is what gives you the VIP anemities, you wont however, get the easy a la cart reservations, making it necessary to stand on line daily to try and get one for the following night.
vacationado
We did the tour and got VIP access.
Svenskarna
no.
but you can still use the small VIP beach @ hotel (which is really rather beautiful)
NJSun
You will get the same amenities if you have a Cheap Caribbean bracelet. The sales people will approach you when they see the band but just say no.
If you buy in you do have better chances of rest. private pools etc..but what CC says you get.... that is exactly what you get.
Beach, pools, buffet etc.
pepk
yes
tomkathie
Yes They are separate
bball
Yes VIP is for everyone. Just tell them you already own a vacation club and don't need another so they don't harras you. That is what I did. And they call it vacation club not a time share but it is the same thing.
shygal4730
No. You must purchase the membership . You will only have the one VIP area that is at the hotel. Not bad , but the other areas are sooo much nicer and relaxing.
Greedy
Youn can participate in some amenities like Ocean World and Welcome Party if you accept or refuse the tour, and you can stay on VIP beach too.
Obviously there are three places (VIP pool, Harmony Beach, and Serenty Beach) that you can't visit if you are not VIP, but it is OK.
remb
What kind of excursions are offered and are the rates resonable?12 answers
6 years, 84 months ago
val
27 waterfall excursion can't be missed! The cost was 75.00 but it was a full day of fun (9-4) complete with lunch!
Toni
There are a lot of excursions available. There are tour reps at the hotel behind the sports bar. We checked out some online before we went so we had an idea what was available. We spent quite a bit extra on excursions but we were not disappointed with any of them (went on 3). Our rep was from Olympus tours-they will arrange everything for you. We did coba mayan encounter (alltournative tour), snorkeling (de ja vu), trainer for life (dolphin discovery). Enjoyed them all:)
gidge
Zafari
Tour on the City
Ocean World
Reasonable prices
remb
The City Tour was reasonable. 49.00 included a ride in a Cable Car that takes you to a Mountain top that overlooks the City, lunch at a local restaurant and a Museum.
The Horseback riding was well worth 40.00 per person for approximately two hours.
smiley212
reasonably priced and lots to do
beachboatguy
If you book with CheapCaribbean, you have to book excursions with the CheapCaribbean rep on site. They offer a variety of reasonable excursions. We did the Paradise Isle snorkel trip (highly recommended) which was a full day excursion with lunch included for under $100 per person. There are also horseback riding trips, catamaran trips, a waterfall trip (I think it was $75 for a few hours) and a few others. The trips are only offered on certain days so make sure you check with the rep when you get there so you don't miss the excursion you want to do.
JEJE
I did a lot of research before, which matched with what I saw offered when I was there. You can book them online in advance (I used viator.com and looked up some discount codes), or you can book at the resort. There were some city tours or more adventurous jungle tours for around $70-90. I feel that these were more family oriented, so my friend and I opted out. The only one I was considering was the catamaran tour for around $80-90 (but didn't end up going).
There are also packages at Ocean World - again, more family oriented, so we opted out. However, Fri & Saturday nights, they have a show called Bravissimo with dancing, singing, and crazy costumes for $30. The package included pickup from our hotel as well. The show was a little ridiculous, but it was entertaining. Afterwards we visited the nightclub (which was empty since it's not busy season) and the casino.
We also visited the 27 Waterfalls, HIGHLY recommended! You have to hike a little bit and be okay with water/swimming, and definitely buy the waterproof camera because it's beautiful. This is included on some city tours, but since on the tour you do other things you only visit the first 7. I did 12 waterfalls and definitely regret not doing them all! We did not go with a tour group and managed to find a ride with a local, but apparently taxis will charge you a ton so try and negotiate beforehand.
Also we went on the teleferico cable car up to the top of the city. Not much to do there but the view if beautiful.
Vonatron
Various excursions and prices ranges some are very expensive and not what they advertised as.
Ondago
the snorkeling excursion to paradise island was awsome but a very long bus ride ...
drbenz
The usual in terms of Jeep Safari, Horseback riding, all day snokeling, and Ocean World which is in site of the resort. A day pass to Ocean World is $55. The prices were similar to other resorts we have been to.
Travelshopper
There were many different excursions
ATV 1/2 day
horseback riding - 1/2 day
7 waterfalls - full day - But you should be in good physical condition
cable car & shopping - full day
Zip line - 1/2 day
swimming w/dolphins
swimming w/sharks
swimming w/sting rays
encounter with sea lions
encounter with dolphins
day at oceanworld
safari - full day
I thought the prices were reasonable
We did the cable car, shopping trip and the sealion encounter
Would highly recommend the sealion encounter - loved it.
Kane
Excursions are available to be booked @ Cheap Carribean.com ahead of time. However, upon arrival, onsite representatives Turinter Tours frowned upon the prebooking, making it a difficult process. Rates are average for cable car/town shopping tour and all-day catamaran boat trip.
DebbieGK
yes
sweetsmile
They have plenty of excursions. My advice, do a little research and know what your looking to do before you discuss it with the rep. Although they have plenty and some I didnt even think of, the rep I was dealing with kind of pushed some more than others. In my case I knew of 2 that I really wanted, 1 of which he never mentioned until I brought it up. But to answer your question, they offer everything form ziplining, city tours, private beach tours, waterfall tours and more. Some more expensive than others but reasonable priced.
EV30
Is the beach appropriate for small children?11 answers
Many people topless at the other resort and created a few issues!! (not for me but the family we travel with!!)
6 years, 84 months ago
staci
This resort does not encourage topless bathing, however, it is not prohibited in the Dominican Republic.
MariaCC
In the 5 days we were there, we only saw one topless sunbather and she was simply lying on a towel next to her family. I would not be concerned about taking small kids.
RockyMtnSunseeker
the beach is fine for families... there WERE 2 topless bathers, which were not an issue for me or my daughter... some parents may want to prepare for questions.
janie
Didn't see a single topless person the wole week we were there. Depending on the age of your children waves can be large right down from the hotel, walk 5 minutes east and reefs are closer to shore and waves smaller.
Svenskarna
Not really but the pool area is great.. beach is small and rough with dark sand.. not white.
drbenz
There were a couple girls topless at the beach, but not many.
jetset317
This beach is fine for families. I did not see anyone topless there at all.
ImperfectPerfection
Yes
hrachovo
beach was appropriate for children, saw no one topless at any beaches we were at, and we were at all beaches in resort throughout trip
rcflyer59
We saw one women laying out topless. But it wasn't the norm. However as I'm sure your aware bikinis are getting really small.
Thedogsoftravel
Only saw one topless bather and she was very discret.
Travelshopper
No topless beach, well I did not see any of that :-(
Beachlover1482
Rooms with Ocean World Included come with a one day pass or are you allowed extra days6 answers
6 years, 83 months ago
Pepito
The Ocean World Included room category has a one day pass for admission to Ocean World. Any additional days would have to purchased out of pocket.
ccsusan1
I will recommend for you to buy the dolphin excursion, great experience and it will include entrance to the park .
Yolandita
YES At I believe $55 per person per day. Believe me, one day will be more than enough. The snorkeling is in a fish tank with fish dung floating around the top. Also, if you want to return to the hotel early, forget about it, your white band adentifies you as a Cheap Caribbean guest and you will get no service. See my comments, if they print them.
bankerchas
it is pay as you go but i believe there is a package you can pre-purchase that is cheaper. When you get there ask for john Wayne he will hook you up
plantaginate31
No
Flaky
a one day pass to ocean world is about $65-$75 . Do not expect any extra ones.
teddybaer
They come with a one day pass. Extra day pass can be purchased for $55.00 p/day.
Dsanda
Dont't know - Ocean World was not a part of our special rate
CeCe1
Yes the do and also cabbanas:)
Gera
I was there and you chose the day that you want go to Ocean World, you would enjoy, Victor
Victor966
Are all vacations through this site connected with a sales tour?11 answers
This is the first Q&A section for a resort that I see there is a sales tour (timeshare/membership) involved. Are ALL of them connected to some sort of sales tour? How do you know the difference...NOT one vacation package I've looked at states it's related to a sales tour? Since I've never taken a vacation of this nature...I just don't want any surprises...
6 years, 83 months ago
msanders417
You don't have to attend a sales presentation, but you will be hounded until you do. See my comments. IF YOU WANT A CHEAP TRIP AND DON'T CARE ABOUT THE QUALITY, YOU MAY LIKE THIS SPOT, OTHERWISE KEEP LOOKING.
bankerchas
Most of the resorts we sell are not connected wtih a sales tour. Lifestyles however, is connected with a timeshare group. If you need furhter assistances please contact us at 1.800.915.2322.
DanielleCC
They ask you to take a tour but you don't have a tour and they give you a gift if you do. It was nice to see the whole resort as well.
dsramaker
We were able to get out of the sales tour by having plans both mornings we were there. It maybe harder to do on a longer trip, but you can always say no to their "VIP breakfast/lunch". They might pester you, but you're under no obligation to go.
Nurseshark
Tons of people we met said they had been solicited to. My wife and I were never asked any questions about wanting to join a time share or go on a tour but we are 21 and it was probably very obvious we could not afford the timeshare. If you go, have no reservations about telling people NO from the start. The people there are very much salesmen. They are pushy and if you do not want something do not try to argue with them or politely get out of it. Just say no from the start. In conclusion I would say that if you go, the probability of someone approaching you about a timeshare is pretty high.
gdaddy
Not all Cheap Caribbean vacations are 'sales' related. I know Lifestyle and Moon Palace are.
Rascal
Listen closely! Beware of the guys in the white polo shirts. These are the guys that direct you to the sales staff that waist your day trying to hard sell you a timeshare and will get rude if you say no. We did not expect this they didnt say this was a promotional vacation they just roped us in to a tour. Let me save you the time. book the presidential suite it is worth the money or when they say to you; meet me after breakfast to discuss your reservations for dining avoid this meeting go to concierge make your reservations there because making reservations for your dining is not thier job, it is the lie they tell you to rope you into a tour because after the tour when you say no they send you back to concierge because you dont have access to the finer restaurants on the resort unless you book the presidential suite or higher. understand? Go with God.
plantaginate31
Yes
Flaky
we told them that we were not interested and never went on a tour.
creegle
We went to the Sales Tour and after 10 -15 minutes, we stopped the salesman and told him that we were not interested and we got our gifts and left. They were not pushy at all.
gladadou
The sales tour is them trying to sell you a timeshare. All you do is keep saying "thats nice, I'm not buying" and once they're done they leave you alone for the rest of your vacation. Pretty much every Caribbean country you go to where you get any deal will have that same timeshare sales pitch. You're best bet is to arrive in the afternoon and tell them you've already heard the timeshare pitch.
Polymorph
Does the "Per Person" rate exclude minor children?6 answers
Hello, I have a12 year old child. Since she is a minor Is she covered under our per person rate or do we have to pay extra?
6 years, 82 months ago
Huggi
If you have a 12 year old child that is travelling with you, when pricing out your deisred vacation, you would just need to add them when entering the number of travelers and the ages of the travelers. Just make sure to choose them as a child, and enter their correct age. Once you do that, the website will price out the vacation package accordingly. The child will pay for their airline ticket (if you are including airfare in your package), and most times will also pay a price in the hotel room as well, although this varies depending on whether the hotel is all-inclusive, and the individual hotel itself.
KristinCC
i DO NOT KNOW THE ANSWER
HONEYBUN
Dont know but you can e-mail them from thier website
plantaginate31
Yes she is and indivitual person she must pay
Flaky
We did not travel with anyone other than ourselves (2 adults) but I think everyone needs to pay the per person rate (whether it is $19, $11 or whatever)
CeCe1
You have to pay for her as well. It will cost the same as an adult. However, at $11/per or even $21/per that's not very much. Because of the extremely low price they charge the same for everyone. I'm not sure about infants, but toddlers and older cost the same.
travelnut21
Don't see why not ,you might look into policy of the resort if child (not sure till what age it is consider) stays free,good luck
Gera
Rates are per person regardless of age
DQ27
Is there a casino on the property? If not is transportation made available to the Ocean World one?11 answers
6 years, 82 months ago
travelhound
There is no casino on the property. For an additional cost, you can take a taxi to the casino at Ocean World. Prices for the taxi fare can vary depending on each taxi service.
MariaCC
No casino on property. Have to take a cab to Ocean World except for the Thursday Night party there when there is a shuttle from the hotel.
UCFKnight
There is no casino on the property. We had vouchers for an excursion to Ocean World and that provided transportation. Ocean World is walking distance from the resort, tho I would take a taxi home at night.
VALover
No casino at Lifestyle..but they do bus you for a gambling/dinner event
Rascal
not on the property and yes there is a shuttle that runs there.
plantaginate31
Yes but there were to many female escorts hustling the customers
Flaky
The Casino is a Ocean World and if you stay in Puerto Plata Lifestyle's Tropical Resort & Spa - they do have transportation. Not a problem getting there.
logi65
We were given a free show, nice, at the ocean world casino and they shuttle you back and forth. The casino itself was tiny and not what I am used to.
teddybaer
There is no casino on the property. Transportation is available to ocean world each night.
Dsanda
There is a shuttle to the one at Ocean World. The Casino was VERY small!
VillagerGirl
yes the casino is at oceanworld. they either take you by shuttle or they will arrange to get you a taxi that the hotel pays for. when you leave the casino, you go to the cashier and tell them that you want a taxi, and they will arrange to get one for you.
creegle
no
rogue
Can I (a US Citizen) take my niece (14yrs. old) that is a resident of the US not a Citizen?6 answers
Would her father & mother be able to go as well? They are also residents not citizens of the US.
This would be for the Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort & Spa
Dominican Republic - Puerto Plata
6 years, 82 months ago
Kay
The information we have on file pertains to US Citizens. You would need to check directly with the embassy regarding the stipulations for non US Citizens.
MariaCC
Hi Kay,
If your niece own a "green card" then she can return without any problem if the travel is less than 5-6 months. If you go pass 6 months then you will need to have your niece apply for a re-entry permit. I know this because I just came back from Dominican Republic and I am also a non-US citizen. If you are traveling through US Airways, then make sure you give yourself an additional 30-45 minutes at the check-in booth and the gate in order for them to process the green card because US Airways doesn't understand that there are other travelers out there as well beside US citizens (sorry, this is my own rant with US Airways).
tdinh81
Yes they would be able to go. I also a resident of the US ( not a citizen) and I had a great time. Your niece would have a great time too as they have lots of activities for children so she to can enjoy the vacation and they have sitters to watch the children if you need some adult time.
nurse101
Passports or travel visas
plantaginate31
Only if she has a passport or permission to travel
Flaky
yes a residence can travel also but they need a passport, Dominican or American. A minor (14 years) will need permission from the parents to travel with you. If the parents are with her, that is no problem.
Princessa
Would not let her out of your sight, will be fine if you plan on staying at the resort, by the pool or beach alot. Everyone needs a passport.
Be safe, we were robbed, the very first night returning from the welcoming party.
teddybaer
Don't know the citizenship requirements of visiting Puerto Plata DR. You would have to research this.
CeCe1
By federal law any minor must have documentation from the legal guardians authorizing any international trips - you can't even take her on a cruise without doc's.
Also the hotels will generally authorize discounted rates for foreign passports only. So as long as she's not from whatever country you're going to you're good - but I would call to check ahead of time.
Polymorph
I have ms anddo they have elevarors And smoking11 answers
6 years, 82 months ago
judy
Lifestyle does not have elevators and they do not have smoking rooms. For guests with physical disabilities special considerations would be made to provide rooms on the ground floor. Feel free to call one of our experinced Destination Specialists to discuss any special needs you may have and they wil be happy to assist you in finding a suitable resort.
ccsusan1
No, they don't have elevators ..
caro
Personally I did not see any elevators. Smoking is allowed all over the resort.
Amie
I don't remember seeing any elevators but there is a ton of smoking there (at least compared to what I was used to)
gdaddy
No elevators at Lifestyle and yes they allow smoking.
Rascal
smoking yes elevators no, there are ground level rooms request them.
plantaginate31
No elevators and smoking is permitted
Flaky
No elevators that I saw, lots of smoking areas.
teddybaer
no to elevators and yes to smoking. i will tell you that there are alot of steps and inclines with no railings.
creegle
they don't have elevators ecause it is only a three story building.
You can basically smoke almost anywhere.
gladadou
no - they have ramps. Request a ground floor room as there are multiple buildings so there are a lot of rooms on ground floor levels. yes unfortunately theres smoking but it's all outdoor so it's easy to avoid stinky people as long as they're not breathing in your face.
Polymorph
How cold are the hot tubs?11 answers
What is the degrees Fahrenheit?
6 years, 81 months ago
Gutenberg
The hot tubs temperature varies as it is under the resorts control.
DanielleCC
Whatever the air temperature is. Its not really a 'hot' tub.
Rascal
Around 80 to 90 degrees
Gebaez
The hot tubs on the outside are room temperature because of the tropical climate. In the presidential suites where there are 2 whirpool tubs extra large you can have it your way.
plantaginate31
I was good tempature perfect for the heat
Flaky
It was probably about 85 degrees.
logi65
We were there last week and the days were in the 90's and humid, but not unbearable-nights were perfect-70's
Antiqaddict
They are NOT hot at all, basically a bubbly pool tub. The warmest was around 78 degrees I would say.
VillagerGirl
they're not hot. i would go so far as to say they were less than lukewarm. very nice to look out over the ocean. the pools on the other hand, were unbelievable. you could just walk into it and your body didn't even need to adjust. it was fantastic, pristene, and clean.
creegle
colder than your average swimming pool. They call it a hot tub but they are not hot tubs. they are cold water tubs with bubbles. very nice to be in because it gets pretty hot out there.
Travelbum
The "hot tubs" aren't heated. Because the regular pool temperature is about the same as ocean temperature or 81-87 degrees F depending on time of day. A hot tub isn't that much hotter. And when you're in the sun you already feel like you're frying - you don't want to be boiled and fried.
Polymorph
I'm not sure if the temp, but they were not "really cold". The weather was high 80's where we were there last week and we could easily get into the tubs and relax. The temp was very pleasant --- not too cold or hot!
WeLoveTheBeach
is there direct flight from Jamaica to DR and do u need a visa to go there and visi versa4 answers
6 years, 81 months ago
Jay
It does appear that there are no non-stop flights from Jamaica to the Dominican Republic, however, you would be best to check based uon your individual travel dates, and the specific airports in Jamaica and DR that you are interested in. Regarding documents needed to travel, CheapCaribbean.com is unable to advise as to exactly what you would need. If you are a US citizen, we suggest checking the following web site for the most up to date information: https://travel.state.gov/ . If you are not a US citizen, you would be best to check with the consulate for further information.
KristinCC
Don't know
CeCe1
yes jetblue goes there from jfk to puerta plata direct.. every day.... well u need a passport to go there.. if u dont have one then u need your green card and visa
stinky
You should take AA from Jamaica and stops in Miami to continue to Puerto Plata.
If you are an American Citizen, you don't need a Visa.
If not, you need to check with the Consulate of the DR.
gladadou
I doubt there's a direct flight from Jamaica, but just do a search on Jet Blue and American Airlines - you can also check a travel site like Kayak.com.
You don't need a visa for a stay less than 90 days. You will purchase a "travel visa" when you arrive. It's $10/person and you pay cash before going through customs.
travelnut21
Yes passport required both ways. I'm sure there must be a direct flight from Jamaica to DR.
DQ27
Is the parking at the resort free or is there a fee?8 answers
Does anyone know if the resort charges for parking? Or how much the available 'economy size' rental cars cost per day? & how easy/difficult it is to get to the resort from the POP airport & around the area? Gas prices??
6 years, 81 months ago
proudfalconmom
parking may be included, but would not advise a rental car in this area.
Nowhere to go that would be really safe, and many of the roads are terrible.
teddybaer
No fee for parking. Most guest had golf carts, only if you were a VIP member.
Ebony
The resorts amenities does have parking on-site listed without a money sign next to it. Please do keep in mind that any amenity is subject to change with or without prior notification.
MariaCC
There is no charge for parking, however, most guests get around via golf carts. It is a 40 minutes drive from the airport; we use a prepaid taxi service ($60 round trip) and there was no problems travelling to or from the resort. Lastly we asked the driver about gas prices and it appears that it is extremely expensive which is why most of the locals travel via motorcyle.
Dsanda
It took us about 40 minutes to get from the POP airport by bus to the resort. The gas prices are very high I believe they said around $6.00 a gallon. I know for sure that it was more than New York.
Mandi1108
very little parking. better of taking the free hotel transfer or a 45$ taxi
mattb
Don't know - we caught a shuttle
CeCe1
gas is $7 per gallon. driving through the cities is insane. You can't go fast, the roads go from smooth to massively messed up and back often, and the way dominican's drive - when they honk at you, pull over and maintain speed, because two lane roads become three for passing purposes normally. And the cities are far crazier. The resort offers taxi discounts - and Lifestyes is about 2 hours from Santiago airport so expect a taxi to cost you a minimun of 80 bucks each way. I think the resorts package (must be booked with the resort itself - look up main lobby phone number in yellow pages or something) is 140 round trip to santiago airport. Any excursion booked with the hotel includes transporation. And the hotel has an inner resort free shuttle from varying lobbies and locations.
Polymorph
Parking is free. Rentals are anywhere from 25 to 80 per day & it is really easy to get around the area from POP airport..gas is not cheap! It depends on the type of site seeing you want to do. You really are better off with the excursions to see everything.
beachbumct
At $11 per person per night a 5 night stay should be $110 for two people without air-where are these "book now" offers?8 answers
6 years, 80 months ago
donna
it ends up being like 580$ with flight from philly to DR just click on the link and fill it out
mattb
You have to go under book hotel only in the left hand corner of the resort page
Renee1969
I got an email about the $11 special but we had just gotten back from vacation there on $19 a nite/per person. Sure wish we could have gone back @ that rate. Maybe CC will run this offer in Dec or early next year. We will keep our fingers crossed. WE WOULD GO BACK IF $ & TIME AWAY FROM WORK WARRANTS IT!!
CeCe1
call them
LaGardenia
just book the hotel only
trini21
You need to pay $30.00 for Transportation from the airport to the Resort (round trip)
You need to pay taxes also....which is about $42.00 per person for four nights.
gladadou
The $11 PP/ night is not everyday of the year. We got that deal 2 weeks ago and then the next week was $22 so we believe it's off season when the hotel resorts need people to stay there. Then they'll try to get you to meet with them about joining their holiday club/timeshare but there is no pressure to do so. Great deals to be found!
RLVA
On the left side of the page where they show where you fly from there is an option for hotel only.
midmosie
Cost comparison7 answers
How does $15 per day per person translate into almost $900 from Atlanta? Our room for 5 days should be $150 - and it sure isn't a $750 plane flight from Atlanta?
6 years, 80 months ago
none
Hi,
Thank you for your question. The special rate quoted at $15 per day is for the resort only, not including airfare or taxes. Airfare from ATL to POP is currently pricing at about $730 per person for the dates Oct 15-Oct 20 and is subject to change.
ccsusan1
There are more taxes to fly internationally than in the US to US, The airlines also charges other "junk fees" and CC have other fees, I guess. But from Atl to fly to Puerto Plata now (Sept) is not cheap. For 2 people the $750 sounds right.
CeCe1
all i can tell you from new york for two people, it cost us $1,413.48 and that included flight, food, drinks, and transers to and from the airport. that was the $19/day deal. remember you should tip as well. we were there from 9/11/ll to 9/18/11. we met people who went there thru their timeshare and still had to pay $20/day for food and drinks.
creegle
It depends on when you go and which airline you choose. Travel from Atlanta can be quite costly. There are also taxes.
BerryBurns
A flight from Atlanta might actually be $750. There are only 2 US airlines that fly into Puerto Plata - Jet Blue and American. The flight costs are outrageous to get there. I tried to get some family and friends to travel with us but flight costs were crazy expensive ($650-$900). You might be able to get it a little cheaper depending on dates. I would recommend looking at flights separately on Kayak.com then if you find something worth it to you go back to cheapcaribbean to book "hotel only."
travelnut21
do hotel only and book your own flight. You'll find taxes and fees to go to some of these countries at 300 times the airlines actual flight cost (example - a flight might cost Jet Blue 55 bucks, however they charge you 174 plus american taxes and fees because 120 of that price is dominican taxes and fees. I kid u not - look at spirit airline prices to see for yourself.) Ever wonder why people in these countries never pay taxes? because you do when you visit them built into your cost in airline fees.
Polymorph
I booked separate used spirit with $9 club
garyana
You have to pay attention to some of the extras that are included automatically like airport transfers and trip insurance. You simply have to click on them to remove them from the price. There will be some taxes and fees added but they usually aren't too much. We booked our own flights (used miles) so we used the hotel only option while booking. We did pay for the airport transfers which I would suggest. The trip to Lifestyles truly was a bargain.
Slamdunc7
Yes taxes and fees are added and they are quite a bit.
I flew from MN to DR and the total cost I paid with taxi service to resort and back to Airport was $965.00 per person for 7 days.
DQ27
What is the cost for a single person?7 answers
All the deals are for double occupancy. I am a solo traveler. What is the average rate if I don't have a travel buddy? Do you offer a roommate matching service?
6 years, 80 months ago
msjoleegirl
We do not offer any roommate matching services. Our packages are advertised based on double occupancy. Of course Single occupancy rates are available at most hotels. If you see a hotel package you like, you can remove the second adult from the package and proceed to get the pricing for 1 adult. If you prefer, one of our agents can quickly provide you a price with not obligation.
KellyCC
I traveled with my husband/mate so I do not know the solo rate. But I met a lady while there that traveled solo & she said CC's rate for solo was like 3 times the rate for couples. She booked thru Expedia because she said that it was less than CC's solo rate & she still got the benefits of using the VIP Beach & all (but she stayed in either a studio or 1 bdrm, not a hotel room on Tropical side - where we were on the $19 a nite per person special at the time)
CeCe1
I booked 2 rooms (one for my son and his girlfriend) and one for me and a companion who was 'unable to join me' at the last minute. It was chaper booking a double room with a no-show than booking a single room.
CATH
If you are SOLO, it will cost you an average of $62.00 per night.
Matching is not done in order to avoid problems.
gladadou
if you find the deal as we deed $19 just go for $ 38 and be single:)
Gera
I originally booked for two people at the rate of 11 us dollars per day. I ended up traveling solo. So 22per day wasn't bad at all. I was afraid that there would be an extra charge but there wasn't.
Kwblackscholar
The price they show is devided in two, so if you travel alone you pay for it twice. Example if it's $50 per person, a single will pay $100. I hope this helps.
funseekingcouple
When traveling on this trip it is required that it is double occupancy.
DQ27
How much does the babysitting cost?6 answers
I have a 1 yr old and a 6 yr old. How much is childcare and is it through the resort or an outside agency?
6 years, 80 months ago
kerstar
The supervised Kid's club is included in the all inculsive package and should not be an additional charge. For further information regarding babysitting you may contact the resort directly. CheapCaribbean in not provided with additional cost for babysitting.
DanielleCC
Did not travel with kids so I don't know
CeCe1
we traveled with a 15 month old baby just last week. Ask for Crip and they will provide one in the room, it was very helpful for us.
Take regular medicines like tylenol, cough syrup, baby vicks, etc. Expensive to get them there. Also if you have to visit the clinic and require prescription medicine for the baby or someone it costs $137 for me to get antibiotic.
They have a kids corner but not much going on there. Well there weren't too many kids when we were there so maybe that is why. I was told we can get baby sitters but we did not get one. The kids will have a great time and all the staff are very friendly.
Mapa
it's $10 US per child it start at 8:30pm until they keep the kids for free from 8pm for the mini disco then they take the kids back to the room. I would get Veronica to do it she has been there the 3 times we went, tell her Emily and Aidan's mom recommended u. We love Alfredo also so your choice
trini21
DIDN'T USE SITTING SERVICE. WOULDN'T RECOMMEND TAKING YOUNG CHILDREN.
DISAPPOINTEDTRAVELER
They have a great "kids club" right on the resort that is included in your package. Not sure about the 1 yr old though....
marty12345
They have a great area that is designated to children with all sorts of games and jungle gyms!
amckeon3
If you need to watch drinking the water, what about coffee and frozen drinks like pina coladas?11 answers
6 years, 80 months ago
travelhound
Everything is made with purified water
Maria66
I take for granted that they use Purified Water like the one that give us (at the VIP bar and the bottles they put in your mini fridge) that is bottled in the DR. So I would not worry about that.
CeCe1
We had no problem with the drinks at all and we had the frozen ones plenty of times.
Erika12
very good question. the only water you cannot drink from is the water from the faucet in your room. there is even a sign at the sink not to drink the water. they provide water bottles, soda, and beer in the refrigerator in the room. we had water, coffee, soda, frozen drinks, etc. at the buffet and all of the other restaurants and NEVER got sick.
creegle
They use filtered water. No worries for the drinks. They also stock your fridge daily.
BerryBurns
We were there for five days; drank coffee, tea and had drinks at the bar. We brushed our teeth with bottled water which was provided in our rooms. Great place, enjoy.
Karmas
You don't have to worry about the water or the frozen drinks....
gladadou
Ive been there 4 times and ill drink over 50 pina coladas and have never had any problems...
Travelbum
In these countries even locals don't drink what they call "raw water" In fact bottled water is cheaper to buy there than in the states because they use it for cooking as well since it's cheaper to buy 5 gallon drums for $4 than to boil raw water for 30 min and waste all that gas to heat the water when gas is $7 per gallon. the biggest thing people forget - is don't brush your teeth with raw water! use mouthwash instead of toothpaste while on vacation, it's easier and you won't get sick.
Polymorph
All drinks are made from purified water and salads are washed in purified water. I've been 3 times to DR and nobody in our party has ever had any trouble.
Ovie
I drank the water they provided assuming that they were using filtered or clean water. I also had drinks that had ice cubes in it because, unless I wanted a warm soda or mixed drink, I wouldn't have had another choice. I actually didn't find to have troubles with doing this. My stomach really only had trouble if I had anything really greasy. My boyfriend also didn't have problems with the water and drinks with ice cubes. Some people did, some people didn't. I guess it is up to you.
Schleg
No one has mentioned the dress code for men for dinner, is it long pants for evening unless at the buffet?11 answers
6 years, 80 months ago
travelhound
To our knowledge, only the Azul Restaurant at the top of the VIP building requires long pants for men.
Pila
It depends on what you prefer. We've been to the resort a few times and I have seen some people very dressed up, and others very casual. But I would say overall, it's more casual than anything.
BettyBeaches
There is no dress code for Casablanca (the buffet restaurant open for breakfast, lunch & dinner) - other than everyone must wear shirts, shoes & no bathing suits allowed. So you can wear shorts, t-shirts, casual or dress - it is up to you. For the restaurants that you need reservations for the day before (Mexican, Chinese, Blue Lagoon & Italian), they say men must wear slacks & shirts & women a dress, slacks or casual or dressy but we saw both men & woman wear shorts & tops at the finer restaurants above & it was no problem.
CeCe1
My husband wore shorts sometimes- but nicer ones- not cargo shorts or anything- at the specialty restaurants. It's cool enough at night though if you'd prefer to wear long pants. I'm pretty sure I remember seeing jeans, cowboy hats, etc out there too haha.
Erika12
The dress code isn't cast in concrete, but most people wore resort casual to the restaurants in the evenings, although my husband chose to wear long pants only to the upscale La Gourmet restaurant and AZUL, both of which were available with an upcharge of $25pp.
The other restaurants are very nice, but shorts and a nice golf shirt or Aloha/Tommy Bahama shirt would be fine. The few we saw who were in old shorts and t-shirts kind of stuck out in the evenings, but that may be just us wishing they knew not to.
lynnr11
very casual. men wore shorts and long pants at every restaurant we ate in. we had the vip package which we still don't understand but we were not allowed to go into all of the restaurants. we were told the gourmet restaurant required good pants, not jeans or shorts.
creegle
most men were shorts but it is proper to were long pants. to dinner
limolady
Long Pants for men are required at Azul, Jazz, and Simply Gormet. Casual shorts are fine for all others. My boyfriend and our other friend had to buy pants down there.
BerryBurns
casual, our friend went in nice shorts with loafers and that was fine
shesha
Yes, I believe you need to wear long Pants for dining at a Restaurant.
I would never let my husband go to a nice restaurant for dinner with shorts.
gladadou
Mainly they don't want people in bathingsuits or anything wet for sanitary reasons. No one will ask you to wear long pants in the tropics, but ripped cut offs might be out of place in the fancier restaurants.
Polymorph
What entertainment and activities are there11 answers
Is this spot geared more for couples or is it also for singles. What sort of entertainment and activity is there
6 years, 80 months ago
Patty
There were mostly couples and families. Not a lot of singles. There are nightly shows and a Disco. We didn't attend either.
vino2533
We were there in September, so not many children, little ones under age 6 or so only, we met several singles, but it is not necessarily a singles swinging place. The VIBE disco opens around 11:30, so you know there have to be enough younger people to support that, lots of activities, sunfish sailboats, kayaks, tennis, water sports and games in the main pool, if you want Club Med style activities, this may be a little tame. The Sunday night party is great, pumping music, live entertainment, and excellent food prepared outside, along with fireworks. The main pool has several sections, swim up bar, and lots of places to just stand with a cocktail, or swim. Good luck, we will definitely recommend it to everyone we see. Lynn
lynnr11
We just returned, September 11th, and did not think that the resort was geared toward any particular demographic. We encountered mostly couples and families although there were very few if any young children. There are some typical adventures offered by the resort to see the local highlights but we just stayed and enjoyed the beach.
TCJC
on sunday night when we arrived, there was a huge party that they took you by shuttle. it was a fantastic feast. everything from lobster to roasted pig. the entertainment wasn't good but they did have a fantastic firework show. very professional. another night there was a show at the coliseum but that was awful. they lip sink and dance. not entertaining at all.
during the day there is water aerobics, volleyball, ping pong, and many tournaments to be played. they do keep you busy if you want it or you can read three books like i did :)
this is really for family or couples. we did meet a few singles who were looking for singles but there weren't any to be found.
creegle
Hi.. I am single and have gone to this spot for two years in a row... People are really warm and friendly... I had no problems as a single..
OhCarol
there is a the disco and you can also go into town.. but there no need
lots to do whether single or couples
limolady
- Daily activities program.
- Introductory scuba lesson in pool
- Non-motorized water sports
- Gym with new equipment installed in 2009
- Nightly entertainment
- Amphitheater with shows
- Admission to Disco (drinks not included)
- Supervised Kid's Club open 9 AM - 12 PM and then from 2 PM - 5 PM (Hours subject to change.)
- Daily activities program for children 4 to 12 years old.
- Children's pools and mini-disco
- Tennis (daytime)
- Use of bicycles on property
KellyCC
The week I went was a lot of couples, but there were a quite a few groups of singles. Entertainment is shows of dancing and a night club, where the show dancers do mingle with the crowd. Theres activities in the pool and a rental area for boogie boards and beach stuff. There's a casino, Ocean World, and they provide excursion packages as well which would include transportation. Guests are off doing their own thing so it's hard to make new friends or join a group so you def want to have a pal with you - but us 4 girls had a ball of a time on our own.
Polymorph
There is a party on Sunday and a show on Thursday. I have never gone to the Thursday show. In my opinion it is a spot more for couples. It is a quiet resort. There were no water activities there that I found besides being in the pool or lounging on the beach. There is a volleyball net. You can choose to do activities that you pay for which are not at the resort but with outside companies. (horseback riding on the beach, snorkeling at Paradise Island)
LivininQueens
Patty,
This spot is geared for the older crowd, who wants to stay at a resort, eat bland food, and lay at the pool. When we stayed, we used it as a cheap place to stay and use as a home base. Everything is cheaper and more fun if you book it yourself. Rather than go with a large party, you can go with a smaller, more intimate group and get have a better experience.
benjaminf
There are alot of couples but there are lots of single people with friends it really doesn't matter. I had a lot of fun I am married but went with a girl friend who is also marriied and we met tons of married and single people and we had fun with them all.
DQ27
Booking through CC.com what are my options.11 answers
Traveling to the resort at the end of Novemeber, after reading reviews im a little worried. It seems like we will only have acess to one bar(VIP beach), and the buffet? Have I read this wrong and have acess to all four bars, and all the restraunts(Reservations of course)?
6 years, 79 months ago
tnxm
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including local liquor, beer, cocktails, wine by the glass and soft drinks are available from four bars. You also have access to the buffet and speciality restaurants with a reservation as required.
MariaCC
there are plenty of bars and you have a four resturants plus the
buffet all are good
limolady
As a yip you have access to all things at the resort except for the members only areas. you will not be disappointed. Go have fun relax, and thing as much or as little as you want.
airmedic
I just came back and I had access to all the bars in the resort. Also to the restaurant of course you have to make reservations by 1pm the same d ay
yuya
The resort is excellent!!! Believe me ... I do about 5-7 vacations per year. You have acces to a couple of bars. The restaurants are a little bit difficult for reservations, but the buffet is excellent and you wont see the same food ... by the way ... VIP bar: mimosas, champaigne, sushi (till 230pm) and more till 5pm
LaGardenia
No...you only have access to one VIP bar & beach. You still have access to the other 3 or 4 bars and all the pools, etc. The buffet is maybe better than the restaurants depending on what type of food you are accustomed to. Don't be upset if you can't get into the Italian or Chinese...buffet is better. Plenty to do and you will be impressed at what you get for the money...I was and I dispise all-inclusives for the most part.
BiggieFL
I just returned from the resort and you will have access to atleast 3 or 4 bars. There is a lobby bar, swim up pool bar, VIP bar, and I'm thinking atleast another bar. There is the buffet but there are about 3 or 4 restaurants you should also be able to go to. There is a chinese and mexican restaurant and one called Blue Lagoon which has seafood etc. There may even be one more--I can't remember for sure. We upgraded our membership so we did not have to wait each day to make reservations for the restaurants but I have read that you have to go between 1 and 3pm each day. It is the off season now so hopefully you won't have trouble making reservations. Also, the night we arrived (Thursday night) there was a BBQ dinner outside by one of the pools which had a huge spread of food and it was very good. The Sunday welcome party was wonderful too. There was a massive spread of food---lobster, filet mignon, oysters, sushi, pork, other seafood etc. etc. etc. So for two nights there were alternative dinners offered beside the buffet.
triplover
There are 4 bars that I know of that u will have access to. VIP beach, the pool bar, lobby bar and the blue lagoon. All are very nice, pool bar is best (get to know David. Best bartender ever). That's open 10am-midnight. And the blue lagoon is open til 5am. As for restaurants, u do have access to 4 of those as well. Reservations need to b made a day in advance in the lobby. But when u check in, make sure u go through all ur paperwork. I didn't notice until checkout that there was a reservation for dinner already made tucked inside an envelope. Lol
Jillybean82
You will have access to all the bars including the VIP . However, the VIP Bar is the only one with Premiun Drinks and it is closed at 6:00 p.m.
You will have access to the Buffet and all the Restaurants(of course, on a space available basis)
There is a show every night and they are just great specially the party on Sunday nights. You can even have lobster on that day.
gladadou
There is a new VIP sports Bar that you can not use unless you are a member , but the VIP beach is all top of the line & there are two more beach bars and a swim up bar on the main pool area. there are four restraunts and the buffet they will try to pre book you for three of them, with the pool party and the sunday welcome party you will love to take a brake and go to the buffet at your time. every night is a different setting. you will be move then happy with the food & drink when at the VIP beachbar ask for Rahauol or Hector and tell them Richard said Hello and to take care of you. they will even if you don't let them know . Just back 10-7-11 to 10-14-11 you will have a great time this was our third time there. we can't wait till next oct. have fun hope this helped Richard
Bigbicster
YES YOU WILL HAVE ACCESS TO THE VIP AREA AT THE BEACH. WHICH IS NICE ESPECIALLY THE GUYS AT THE BAR. BUT BE THERE EARLY OR YOU WONT GET A BED. IN REGARDS TO THE RESTAURANT, I SUGGEST YOU MAKE THE RESERVATIONS BEFORE YOUR TRAVEL DATE AS THEY DO NOT TAKE ANY RESERVATIONS WHEN YOU GET THERE SINCE THEY WILL TELL YOU THEY ARE ALL BOOKED AND WILL PUT YOU ON A WAITING LIST.
longa
Are there any deals for the holiday week in December?5 answers
6 years, 79 months ago
Pattycake
Currently we are not running any specials at this resort for Christmas week in December. Feel free to contact one of our experienced destination specialists to discuss current specials being offered at one of our many Caribbean destinations.
ccsusan1
Always a great deal...........
wady
Wherever you decide to travel, stay away from Lifestyle Tropical Resort, Puerta Plata
busydeb7
More likely NOT, we are taking 3-5 trips a year December specialy becouse f hollidays the most expensive tim of the year, x 3. well would be great if you find one and share with the rest :)
Gera
If possible book as late as you can seems like the rates drops if you can go last minute.
DQ27
Rate For Non US/Canadian Passport Holder5 answers
Does the current rate of $49/person based on double occupancy apply to a local or is the $98 rate only for two people both with US/Canadian passports?
6 years, 78 months ago
DR Bob
Prices for non US/Canadian passport holders would need to call for pricing as the current specials on our website are not applicable. Rates are based on availability and subject to change.
MariaCC
98 rate for two people both with US/Canadian passports.
nickey24
I paid 49 per person on double occupancy with us passport
MaryMar
We had British passports and the rate still applied if this helps
Ovie
we are american and get a great deal for $19 for person , sighn p with Carribian they sent the deals some times you can't refuse but have to be flexible with vacation time.
Gera
$49 per person per day for anyone.
LeeLee7
Will both my husband and I have to go to "The Presentation"? or can just one of us go?11 answers
6 years, 78 months ago
Jane
No one from our group went to any presentation at all.
Gramma
Yes! You or him
Stashasmom
Both.
MaryMar
You don't have to go at all. We both went and found it interesting and not high pressure. We drank mimosas while they told us about the vacation club. If you don't want to go just say so. They only seem to bother you the morning after you arrive.
TomL
Just one of you can go to "The Presenttion", but neither have to go, Our friends just said no and they weren't put under any pressure, we went for a nosey and didn't get the hard sell.
Ovie
No you both have to go and it's a HARD sale!! Be prepared! Have bags for your clothes little bugs in all the rooms!
PSNOW
My husband went to the presentaion without me. Neither of you have to go at all. We knew we had no interest in buying a timeshare. And by the way...there is no "welcome gift".
LoriLori
just one can go
pam28z
both.
jbellemore
Just one of you can go.
LivininQueens
Well you both need to go but its pretty pain less. We got out and rode the golf cart and checked out the grounds I thought it was kind of fun and had lunch at a different beach. Got our free rum and tee shirt not all bad
DQ27
Do they have umbrellas and beach chairs at Lifestyle DR?11 answers
6 years, 78 months ago
Norm
Yes
Schleg
Yes
Traveljunkie720
Plenty of shade, but you can have a canopy ped on the VIP beach
wady
yes they do, and they have queen sized beds near the beach that have canopies that you can open or close.
MamaP
plenty of chairs and some umbrellas. Nothing sits right on the beach, but they will take the chairs down there for you, if you'd like.
WeLoveTheBeach
Nothing directly on the beach. You can bring a chair down from the upper area, not sure about umbrella's, but there is shade.
TJAA
You can go solo or not go at all, but I recomend to go together they ffer amaizing deals hard to refuse :)
Gera
They have Beds in the VIP Area which you are allowed to go into with the Cheap Caribbean brachlet you get when your at the resort. NONE OF the beds nor chairs are directly on the beach they are several stairs up higher and a wall seperates the beach from the bed area. I would recommend going to this VIP AREA however if you want a bed with a view be at the entrance by 7:30am to reserve it. This area also has top shelf liquor included unlike the rest of the resort
DiverDan36
yes they do -- chairs and umbrella's are by the pool. VIP Beach has covered beds.
jbellemore
yes they have both..
pam28zz
They do have rain umbrellas at the front desk but they are $10.00. It is wise just to add a small umbrella to your suitcase just in case it rains. As far as umbrellas for the beach...they have some private cabanas that have a cover. They also have beach chairs around the pool that have a small cover. Beach chairs are also available on the beach although I didn't see any umbrellas attached.
LivininQueens
Yes, umbrellas and beach chairs are available and free. If you go to other local beaches, the chairs and umbrellas are placed for a fee of approx. $6US. I would recommend the local beaches. They are a much better experience and more beautiful.
benjaminf
How do we put a deposit down?3 answers
6 years, 77 months ago
ART
Follow the payment procedures online or the easiest way is to call them direct. The online payment process will explain how much is due and when.
Slamdunc7
Have to use Credit Card and you pay full amount no deposits.
DQ27
I don't Know I paid in full
bball
You pay 100% up front with a credit card.
LittlestMacAgain
Are tips for the staff included in the total price of the package deal?8 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
joyfulnoyz
Tips are optional and we did not feel hounded for them by the resort staff. It is expected that you tip the maid. We did tip several of the staff a $1 here or there when we enjoyed their service but the buffet staff is constantly changing.
Joban
Most take a lot of US$1 bills or small gifts for tips.
cruisinlivin
No, tips for the staff are not included in the total price of the package deal.
bernarpw
They are included but a dollar tip goes along way!
beachbumct
I don't no. I no i had lots of singles to hand out. We were well taken care of. The people are very hard workers and do not make much money. They are there greatest asset. I handed out $150.00 in tips and bus fairs in 7days maybe a little more.
bball
I think they are, and I can tell you, go ahead and give them a dollar. They'll remember you over the cheapskate next to you.
B0091825
Yes they are but once you see how hard the staff work and how friendly they are you just may change your mind! I tipped a dollar a day and sometimes more . It is a poor country and they appreciate anything. Even if you decide not to tip the staff does not treat anyone any less
workinoutgirl
Yes but a little something extra goes a long way
zero
NO BRING LOT OF MONEY THEY ARE NOT SHY GIVE ME MONEY IS WHAT THEY SAY IF SOMEONE POINT YOU IN A DIRECTION THEY THEN SAY GIVE ME MONEY BEGGERS MOST OF THEM
sadlyDisappointed
Are there any specials for a single traveler?2 answers
Traveling to Puerta Plata or Puerto Rico. Week of January 1,2012. Are ther any single occupancy deals available?
6 years, 76 months ago
Charlie
All of our advertised specials are based on double occupancy, therefore 2 persons sharing a room are able to take advantage of the best pricing available on a per person basis. If there is a single occupant in the room that person pays more on a per person basis, however it is still a special, discounted rate than the contract rate.
ccsusan1
Your best deals would be double occupancy. For the price that cheap caribbean is offering it is the best here in Puerta Plata Lifestyles resort.. Wedid not like Puerto Rico for all-inclusive!
beachbumct
Does Anyone Offer two week vacations...?3 answers
We like to travel along the carribean and can never seem to find two week All Inclusive vacations.
6 years, 76 months ago
Chicago Jerry
CheapCaribbean is able to offer two week vacation packages with all resort except Lifestyles when they are running specific specials. The resort will not allow a reservation that are more than 7 nights back to back. You may stay one week at the resort, leave and go to another and come back for another week if you wish to do so. For more explanation you may contact us at 1.800.915.2322.
DanielleCC
You can get added days as long as you pay the nightly rate.
bball
You can book two consectutive weeks. A friend of mine checked out and then checked in again an hour later. Especially at lifestyles they say check-out is at 11 but after they cut off the bracelets you can stay in the main diningroom as long as you want and check in again after lunch.
ceas
VIP Member6 answers
I am booking a vacation to Puerto Plata with cheap caribbean andd want to stay at the Lifestyle Tropical, How do I become a vip member before my trip?
6 years, 76 months ago
caribbean fan
When booking a Lifestyles reservation with CheapCaribbean, all guest will have VIP status and be able to attend the VIP areas. To become a VIP member with the resort you may sign up directly with them upon you arrival. This would include being apart of their timeshare program.
DanielleCC
Why? I don't know how to do that. I"m sure it can be done. It would require a contract. I would check the place out first and take advantage of their hospitality and get the best price.
bball
I don't think you can. I think you have to join the vacation club at the resort. There will be plenty of salesmen who will gladly make an appointment for you to meet w/one of the representatives.
jetset317
Someone may correct me if I wrong, but its just words they use to make you feel special. Everyone is a VIP. There are some places you cannot go within the resort, but I dont think its worth what people said they paid. Also, there are other ways you get there (Timeshare swaps). They are the ones I talked to that were the extra special VIPS.
B0091825
You have to pay double the price, and Cheap Caribbean doesnt even offer it. You have to book directly thru the resort. It is worth it though, you get better food, better service, golf carts, better room, access to VIP areas that are off limits to Cheap Caribbean people.
BeachComber78
DON'T DO IT
Deetales
Buy into their Lifestyle ( Time Sharing)
lynns427
You are already booking as a VIP. Once you get there, the next day take the tour and get the gold bracelet!!!!!! Then you are truly a VIP member. It is soooo worth it. Otherwise, do you know someone that already is a VIP member? You can book using their membership and then get your own.
Fishlady
Any insight on whether the meals/buffet/restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly fare?6 answers
I imagine a buffet is a buffet, with plenty of options, but we don't eat meat or fish. Just checking before we pull the trigger.
6 years, 76 months ago
mrplasticidol
The resort does offer vegetarian meals as well as Kosher meals. They may be an additoinal cost to clients. You may view their accommodations directly on Lifestyles website as well.
DanielleCC
there are plenty of non-meat options at the buffet and the restaurants. Plus they are very accommodating. We ate more fruits and veggies while on holidays at Lifestyles than we normally do! It was a great selection!
rjl10
Lots of fruits and veggies, sometimes too much for us meat eaters.
bball
Yes they do and their food is just wonderful
workinoutgirl
Good assortment of veggie option dishes
zero
Be careful. If you book tru Cheap Caribbean, you will be forced to eat at the buffet for EVERY single meal while you are there. Except for 2 meals at assigned resturants. You are issued 2 meal vouchers at check in, and you must show up at said assigned restaurant with your paper voucher at the exact time listed, or you will be refused service. This is because you booked thru Cheap Caribbean. Pay more thru another website, and you can eat whereever you want. We wish we would have. I am not a vegetarian, and I found it hard to eat there. Get to the buffet when it first opens, otherwise the food is cold, and gross people grab food with their hands, etc. Here is a typical menu:
Tacos, omlette station, franch toast, bacon, sausages, rice, STEWED GOAT, pig on a spit, pork tenderlion, hamburgers, big salad bar, lots of fruit, lots of breads. Bring vitamins.
BeachComber78
there is a ton of fresh fruit & fresh veggies on ALL of the buffet's ...morning,noon & night. Also there is a pasta station and a TON of fish options
Pauline
What if I am alone....what is the room rate for only one person?3 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
beharwar
In order to see the pricing for one traveler, you just need to select "1" under the number of guests, and it will price out the package for you for just one traveler.
KristinCC
Im not sure. I would put it into the formula. Let them tell you
bball
rates are for double occupancy you would have to pay for 2 or find a friend to go along with you
tgobrick
Once we book a date can this date be changed?3 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
Lee
As per our terms and conditions, changes to or cancellation of your reservation will incur a $50 per person fee, $175 per person airline fee (if changing flights, as per the airline) and possible resort penalties and any increase in price resulting from the change. Upon cancellation, a credit towards future travel will be issued for the balance remaining. Please note, CheapCaribbean is a non refundable company.
DanielleCC
Yes I Added A dAy. Go for as long as you can afford. It takes a couple of days to get into the swing of things.
bball
I believe one has to pay $100 cancellation fee. Not very sure.
pianolady
it has been my misfortune to have had to switch vacation dates, and it cost me 500 usd. I was not happy
tgobrick
Has anyone ever rented a car to get to the resort from the airport and to go to various site seeing? What was your experience like?3 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
matron
Although you are able to rent a car to go sightseeing in Puerto Plata I would advise exercising extreme caution. The roads are not the safest-often narrow and windy and not very well marked. We highly recommend the local excursions that will take you into town for shopping or sightseeing.
ccsusan1
Absolutely not. Lot of public transportation. Buses Are less than$2 american
bball
Holy don't rent a car.. The driving is a nightmare there are no rules, laws etc. There are mini bikes with 3 to 4 ppl on them even little infants. It scared me to even watch. We did one excursion not from the resort but from the guys on the beach selling them . We went snorkling in Sousa about 45min. away the bus you and just outside the resort it was 35.00 each inside it was 90.00 each.
macy
What cities do you fly out of?6 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
lottegma
We fly out of all major airports. On our web site, when you are pricing out packages, there is a drop-down box to choose the departure city of your choice.
KristinCC
Fir me? I check Fairs at all airports. I drive three hours and leave my car at a hotel secured lot in Newark NJ. I Save $800.00 In air fairs. Ill drve three hours for that.
bball
Porto Plata is the closest airport.
rundhus
Just about any! You need to go onto Cheap Caribbean.com and select your city and then they wil give you options.
Fishlady
we flew out of SLC into JFK (5 hrs) and then to Santiago (4 hrs). Airfare was MUCH cheaper than flying into Puerta Plata. We hired a van driver for the 8 of us for $120 for the 1 hr 15 minute drive. The resort wanted $120 PER PERSON for this same feature.
beaz
Fly into Puerto plata, airport code POP. It will cost at least $35 for a taxi from there to the resort. Santiago airport code STI is about an hour and a half away, you can rent a car at airport or if you're feeling adventurous and frugal take a "PA" public transportation car that passes outside the airport gates 40 pesos per person into the city. Get out at 30 de marzo where there are minibuses that go to puerto plata about 200 pesos. 2 hours later watch for the giant ocean world sign, get off there, cross the street and walk into the right.
Santo Domingo, airport code SDQ. Five hours away. Rent a car or take a taxi to Caribe tours bus company and get a ticket for puerto plata. Ask the driver to drop you off at ocean world.
ceas
do you have to pay extra for all inclusive per person per day?6 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
maui2012
No, you would not be charged addionally. The price you are quoted with Cheap Caribbean includes the all inclusive amenities-all food, drinks and gratuities.
ccsusan1
I don't know. I'm sure you would. Makes since.
bball
No, the all-iclusive deal meaning food and drink is all included. If you book an excursion, use motorized sporting equipment, or take advantage of the spa, then you have to pay extra.
jetset317
No but they do offer different activities outside the resort. When we went we just stayed at the resort.
It was super fun and have been there twice. The staff there are really nice and very accommodating, Although if you are interested in working out go very early as the air wasn't working and it was stifling hot. The equipment does need work.
I/ we felt very safe there and I found out they have a great Dr. there as well. I have asthma so that is the only reason I would of needed one ! which i didn't
workinoutgirl
No extra charges but we found it helpful to hand the staff a tip in US cash every once in a while.
KmonBack
when you buy the trip off CheapCaribbean.com all of your food & drinks are included but once you are there you can upgrade to top shelf & upgrade your food where you can get lobster everynight. It is 50.00 per person per day
Pauline
These resorts are all inclusive. I dont think they offer for you to just use the hotel. The all inclusive is worth it. They have a lot of options for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Bars are open late with a wide variety. All included in what you pay.
Tara87654
Has anyone golfed near the resort? And if so it is hard to get to the course?5 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
LizS
The Playa Dorada Golf Course is approximately 20-30 minutes away by taxi cab.
MariaCC
The golf course looks well maintained, I didn't see very many golfers it shouldn't be very difficult to get a tee time, It's a little expensive I thought and you have to hire a caddy.
searay29
Great course, 10 minutes tops from the resort. They will get you tee times at the resort.
goingcamping2003
I didnt go but my friends did. They all said the course was sandy but beautiful. Do NOT try to get there on your own, it's too dangerous. There is a staffed golf person at the front desk that will arrange to take you.
BeachComber78
I didn't golf on my trip, but trust me from the moment you walk in the door they will try to get you to buy golf packages. So I'd imagine it's easy to get time.
jane12345
12x67 answers
How come when I multiply 6 x $12/day I don't even get close to $549. . .what am I missing here?
6 years, 76 months ago
cold northerner
The $549 price does include airfare. If you would like further assistance pricing out specific travel dates, please call #1.800.915.2322 to speak with one of our experienced Beach Experts. There is no additional fee for assistance through an agent.
MariaCC
$12 is the special rate for the room per person per night. Air and taxes are additional.
KellyCC
First of all, how many people are traveling? I made the same mistake but had not doubled to account for the two people traveling. Otherwise, make certain you are choosing the option for the resort only.. it sounds like the $549 may be the air included option. Make sure you're choosing the correct booking option. If you're not sure, call the phone number and talk to a rep. they're very helpful!
rjl10
These are all introduction rates with promise that you will do the 90 min presentation.Like a car sales man
bball
its $12 a day for the hotel,,, the rest is airfare and taxes
SteveandAmy
LOL. Did you forget your flights, taxes, insurance, etc.? It is a great deal PERIOD.
goingcamping2003
Are you counting airfare and transfers? Also, it is $12 per person per dayk.
MAHALO
Is there some place on the property of Lifestyles Tropical to purchase personal hygiene items?8 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
Gammy
Yes, there is a shop on property.
KellyCC
there are at least two stores that I saw where you can get pretty much anything you'd need in the hygiene department.
rjl10
Yes. Why not just bring them with you?
bball
Yes, there is a store on the property.
B0091825
yes, therer is a nice little shop right next to the buffet resyurant that sells almost anything u may need.
SteveandAmy
yes, there is a sundries shop at both confesi palm and tropical
BarbieGirl
Yes but bring the bank small bottle tums $9.00
sadlyDisappointed
Yes, but they are expensive...bring your own!
MAHALO
What is the drinking age at the resort?7 answers
My husband and I would like to bring my son after his 18th birthday. It is legal for him to drink at the resort?
6 years, 76 months ago
wst coast girl
The legal drinking age in the Dominican Republic is 18 years.
KellyCC
Its 18
bball
18 in DR legal age to drink
JoannaNewYork
We were never carded for ID's. Don't think there is a legal drinking age per say, but I don't know what would've happened had we looked younger than 18 yrs old.
Dancingprincess2012
21
workinoutgirl
Yes - I met a friend whose 15 year old son was allowed to drink
Legal age to drink in DR is 13
Faye
18
MAHALO
How do you make a reservation for the restaurants?8 answers
Do you need to make reservations for the restaurants before you leave or do you make them when you're at the resort?
6 years, 76 months ago
Ry Guy
You don't make your reservations until you get to the resort. You just go to guest services in the main lobby and ask them. They'll let you know which restaurants have openings and then put your name on the list. They'll drop-off your reservation "ticket" in your room in the afternoon. Everyone seems to be making a big deal about having to get in-line and how horrific it is to get a reservation, but we just went in to guest services in the afternoon [no line] and asked for the next day - not sure why everyone seems to have such issues. Also,we discovered that if you go to one of the restaurants "later" in the evening, say after 7:30pm sometimes they can fit you in without a reservation. Worst comes to worst you don't get in and you eat at the buffet.
rjl10
You are supposed to go down to the main lobby at 9am to schedule a reservation, however it is very difficult it you are not a VIP member. It seems everyone we spoke with who was not a VIP member was unable to get a reservation, including myself. However, at Ocean World there is a casino and they have a fabulous restaurant there that you do not need a reservation for and it is very reasonably priced ($18.00 for filet mignon!).
kristinabinaboo
They are usually maid at the front desk by a certain time the day before. We did in the morning. there is always one or two open all the time. No reservations.
bball
They will give you a couple of reservations when you check in. If you want to go to the other restaurants, it can be tricky. We got into two others by giving the dude a $20 bill. They were never crowed and we couldnt understand why.
B0091825
You have to stand on line in the morning and I mean stand in line! Then you go on a wait list. Whoever I spoke to did NOT get in.
Food sucks BIG time at Lifestyles. That was my biggest complaint. Good luck.
Wannago
good luck with getting them..we were told that we could not get any..they give you two when you arrive and they said the rest were booked
BarbieGirl
At 9 am at the quest relations office accross from front desk you make your reservations each day . the line starts about a half hour earlier
skeeteroni
You stand in line at 8 am put in 2 requests if your lucky you get a 9:30 italian . forget the steak house put in for it everyday never got it 5 out of 8 got sick from the food that laid them up for 2 to 3 days
sadlyDisappointed
YOu need to go to guest services on the first day and put in your request...it is not always what you want...be persistent.
MAHALO
Is it possible to put in a request for a specific building/room either with the resort of Cheap Carribbean before arriving?7 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
Liz V.
you can email a request with your reservation. [ there is a space for it at the end I believe]... we did and got what we requested. I'm sure you can email them and request specifics and they'll try to make it happen.
rjl10
I do not Know. I would call and find out.
bball
If you have already made reservations with Cheap Caribbean please give us a call or email us with your booking number. We can certainly send special requests down to the resort. Please note that we are unable to guarantee special requests as they are based on availability with the resort. Thank you!
MeganCC
Call hotel day before your arrival, talk nice voice (not demending) and ask nice.. When I arrived next day we had 3 rooms next to eachother with crib in it) I asked for guys name and next day I gave him tip. .I did that and we were put in bld 1 (close to ec=verething and last bld. Only people who got rooms there went there. I was with 3 kids and we were put on the floor leve (last three rooms) Quiet rooms.
JoannaNewYork
No, we couldn't but when we got there they gave us the building we wanted. It depends on availability, I suppose, but they were very willing to do it for us.
rundhus
I requested building 5 when booking. I recieved a room in building 6 which was nicer and half the size of the other buildings which means it is quieter. Walk right out to the quiet pool. Upon arrival the front desk easily moved a couple we were traveling with to our building in the room right next door.
ohiorealist
nothing you request will get you anywhere not even dinner reservations good luck
sadlyDisappointed
Yes.
MAHALO
Is there a Cheap Caribbean representative working at the front desk all 24hours?9 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
Liz V.
no, there is no Cheap Caribbean rep. there 24 hrs. To be quite hones, I didn't see the rep there the few times I went to the "activities" desk, but I can't see any major reason you would need him. He answered some questions I had via email prior to our trip, but had no need for a rep once there. It seemed that the other reps that were around although all working for different places seem to work together, so just ask anyone and they'll hopefully help or find someone who can - though sometimes it seems to take a while. We found we were better off not working through the reps and just doing things on our own. but, not everyone is comfortable with that.
rjl10
They are not there 24 hours a day. They are there from 8am to 5pm
kristinabinaboo
No They are only a travel agent. They do not have any affiliation.
bball
There is an Olympus tours rep available in the morning. They are available to reconfirm your return transfer and book any tours and excurstion. If you need to speak to us, they can make arrangements to have us speak to you.
KellyCC
NO - are you kidding me.
They are there from 9 to 5 and there is a line out the door!
Wannago
olympus tour operator helped us who was in relation with cheap carribean..his name is felix and he is at the tour desk
BarbieGirl
No
zero
No
Faye
NO! Olympus Tours is there and are very helpful with excursions and transportation.
MAHALO
what does upgrading a room get you?6 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
Paul
Depending upon the room that you upgrade to, you may have extra amenities, a larger room, or a room closer to the beach or pool. The amenities available depend on the room category that you upgrade to.
KristinCC
Beach front and a balcony.
bball
Nothing, unless you sign up for the vacation club.
Jgasson
I have no idea, because all the rooms I saw looked the same. The best rooms are in buildings 5 and 6. Stay away from buildings 1-4, they are old and run down, and have strange frosted glass bathroom windows that people can kind of see into when they walk by. Also buildings 5 and 6 are quiet. Building 1 is very loud due to drunk people at bar right outside the window.
BeachComber78
Doesn't give you anything really at all first come first serve You get only if you buy a Time Share DON'T BE SUCKERED NOT WORTH IT
Deetales
We were unable to upgrade anything. They front lobby is usually packed, especially around check-in (3:00pm).
If successful, an upgrade would get you a closer spot to the pool area or potentially a quieter room. Our room was nice, but right next to the cleaning staff's closet. It was also outside the pick-up spot for the "change in staff" bus, which was extremely loud.
SeasonedTraveler
It gets you a junior suite. If you upgrade and buy into the Vacation Club. You get put in a suite and you get a gold band which get's you access to all the VIP beaches, restaurant's and clubs.
Dwayne
Do Lifestyle guests have access to Cofresi Beach Resort's pools, dining options, and buffet?8 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
Liz V.
Yes, guests are free to enjoy all the facilities of the Cofresi Palm Beach hotel located adjacent on the beach.
KristinCC
Yes on your side of the resort. Nice cabanas with great service. lots of alcohol. The beer is not american. El presidenti beer. Or somthing like that. Have a Coca Loca.
bball
Yes, Lifestyle guest have access to all Cofressi Beach Resort amenities.
luvit
Yes, I beleive so.
Wannago
yes mostly-you can access the pool beach and buffet but not sure about other dining options there. I beleive some of the restaurants are at cofresi but you will be put on the waiting list. you must be at guest services by 8:15am to put your name in they open at 9
chocks
Yes. We went there one day.
Lazybone
All but the dining. I always went to the Confesi nightly entertainment.
MAHALO
Yes, but the food is the same at both buffets. All of the food comes from the same Lifestyle catering company, so going to the Cofresi is just a change in scenery.
jane12345
If you book the extravaganza promo do they put you in the least desireable rooms..ie furthest from the pools and beach, unrenovated rooms?8 answers
6 years, 76 months ago
Mrs Buddah
they give you a lousy room, showers need new shower heads, beds are not that comfortable neither the pillows. pool and beaches are not a far walk.
moeboogie
There isn't any real bad rooms. There is only hard beds. Who stays in rooms? The shows are good . The service is ok. The food and drinks for free. It an.t perfect.
bball
No, they are actually the closest to the beach and pool, but definitely the most undesirable. They are very outdated and need renovating.
jetset317
Superior Room - Extravaganza Sale indicates this is currently the advertized sale price.
KellyCC
My guess would be yes and then they hard sell you to buy and they will upgrade you. Be careful.
Wannago
they gave us a really bad room but people that booked the same promo we did had better rooms...we had MAJOR problems with our room and found a rep who switched us after three days!
BarbieGirl
YES, WORST ROOMS EVER
BEACHBOMB1
No, the room was nice and had ocean view
pat1
I did the extravaganza promo and was placed in a great building locagtion need the buffet and pools. It was builidng # 4.
MAHALO
Question about Pricing?6 answers
It says 'per person', but then says it is a double occupancy bed. So, is it the price per room, or just per person??
6 years, 76 months ago
Kelsey
The prices are quoted per person, assuming there are at least two people in the room. A third person in the room would also be charged but at a slightly different rate, and one person in the room is also priced at a higher rate. The resort does not charge per room, but per person.
ccsusan1
It is per day per room Make sure you ask for what bed you want. Most rooms are without ocean view. They want you to update at 15.00 per night . Ask for a Double or King bed. Its based on two per room. Because its all inclusive you get only two Rist bans.
bball
It's per person, but the price is cheaper based on double occupancy. Meaning two people sharing one room.
jetset317
Per person, based on double occupancy
Wannago
per person if one other person is staying in the room with you. If you book the room just for yourself - the price will be higher
Alexus
per person
rundhus
I am not a US. citizen but I am a resident of U.S. , is the vacation deal valid for me?6 answers
I am a resident of U.S. and I have a valid U.S. working visa and have been working in U.S. for three years now. Is the vacation offer valid for me ? Your website says "Offer valid only for USA, Canadian and European citizens that are resident in the USA, Canada and Europe." Please note that i have valid U.S. credit card.
6 years, 75 months ago
M
You did not mention which country issued your passport, but if you are traveling with a Dominican Republic or Haitian passport you will not be permitted to check in under the special promotion, regardless of whether you have a valid US working visa or credit card. You should also check with your country's consulate to determine what specific entry and exit documents are required for travel to your destination. I suggest calling one of our Beach Experts with any additional questions regarding your eligibility for the Lifestyle Tropical Beac promotion.
ccsusan1
You are valid for the special as long as you do not live in Dominican Republic and you are not a Dominican citizen.
DanielleCC
Depends where your passport is from. Ask Cheap Caribbean to call the hotel directly to find out before you book to clarify. The only reason the offer is selected to people from these countries is that this is a vacation club, and they will try to get you to buy into it. I guess they think people from these countries are the only ones with any money.
KmonBack
Our daughter in law has a green card but is from the Philippines with a Philippines passport. Deal is good for all but Domincans and Haitins I believe. We had no problems getting in and out of the country.
beaz
I am a US citizen and my wife is a US resident...No problem. Go for it and enjoy people and country.
jksda
When we checked it they simply asked for a foriegn picture ID. This could be a green card, residency card or driver's license. So if you have one of those you're good to go!
ceas
If you book through cheap caribbean do you get to use the facilities and the Cofresi Palm Beach Hotel free of charge?6 answers
6 years, 75 months ago
Kaylin
I'm not sure which one was the Cofresi Palm Beach Hotel, but was able to get into a VIP beach that was in Cofresi.
Dancingprincess2012
Yes, the entire resort is open to you.
goingcamping2003
Customers who book the Lifestyle Tropical Beach receive Privileged use of all restaurants, bars and facilities at Lifestyle Crown Residence Suites as well as some other VIP amenties offered at the resort. If you book the Lifestyle Resort they do not offer exchange privalages for Cofresi Resort, however guests staying at Cofresi Resort have access to the Lifestyle Resort.
MeganCC
Yes
zero
Yes if you want but it is no cleaner than the rest of the complex.
Misslead
Yes
Faye
Does thae all inclusive include all alcoholic beverages or just certain ones?8 answers
6 years, 75 months ago
Illinois
Pretty much all of them , when I say pretty much I mean I drink Bailey's and it was only free certain times
workinoutgirl
all drinks
Alexus
just certain ones , if you go to the VIP bar they have some top shelf liquer but not alot but they will give you as much to drink as you want
LeeG
Most bars have a drink menu that you can choose from. But you can also ask for your favorite even if it's not on the list.
somada
includes all drinks but not all top shelf
zero
Some of the upper shelf (Baileys, Amaretto de Sorrono) were only available at the VIP Beach bar.
rundhus
Just certin ones mostly dominican Sh-t Top self at VIP bar only a couple of top shelf for 4 days not on weekend we had to go to town to buy good liquor
sadlyDisappointed
If you book with Cheap Caribbean, you get all beverages, including alcohol with it. But Cheap Caribbean people can only get the generic liquors. Cheap Caribbean people can only get top shelf liquor at one bar in the whole resort, the VIP beach. Other than that, only VIP people can get top shelf.
BeachComber78
I got every drink that I wanted with no problems and at no extra cost. The only place that the drinks were not free was at the Disco and I didn't go there.
MAHALO
Has anyone BEEN to the Disco at this resort?6 answers
2 couples 40's going next week, we are wondering about the Disco. Has anyone been inside and danced? Is it nice or lame?
6 years, 75 months ago
MI
I went to both discos.
Pretty dead after the Sunday night party
Sat night dancers from the resort were present to dance with guests
Reminded me of Atlantic City disco clubs
Faye
Me and my friend are 42 and we went to the disco ICE. It was fun, different then America nightclubs but the people are friendly and the music is good.
beachgirlie
LAME and if you go to an all inclusive why should you have to buy ?? I have never spent so much additional money at an all inclusive
sadlyDisappointed
Its nice. Its just vactioner trying to have fun... it was clean fun . The only down side is the fact that you have to pay for the drinks there. And you do not want to do that because the resort offers free liquor ALL the time ALL day long.
Nessa768
The disco is called Vibe. It is very small, about the size of a standard tennis court. The building is kinda run down, and Cheap Caribbean people are only allowed in the front areas. The back areas are reserved for VIP guests only, much like the rest of the resort. We went there 2 times, and both nites it was empty - no people no music no bartender... like an unsed space.
BeachComber78
nice place...we were there during spring break a lot of college age kids...but some older couples... music was mixed of course a lot of salsa music mixed with contemporary dance music.
topa
Address??2 answers
What is the exact address for this resort? My husband is in the military and to request leave we need an exact address.
Thanks!
6 years, 74 months ago
ras
The address for Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort is:
Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata, Cofresi Beach #1, or for mail Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata PO Box 608
KellyCC
You'll find it here - https://www.cofresipalmresort.com/
ComradeHans
Call Cheap Carribbean by phone they should be able to give you the exact address. Either that or have your husband print out a copy of the resort info from Cheap Carribbean.com and attach it to his leave form. This should suffice. I am retired military so I understand the process he has to go through very well. Enjoy your vacation.
closr42
PO Box 608
57000Confresi Beach
Puerto Plata DR
Pauline
Yes
MaxDo
Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort & Spa,
Cofresi Beach, PO Box 608 Puerto Plata
Dominican Republic,
Caribbean
Phone +809 970 77 77
Bostonians
Playa Cofresi...that is the beach name and it's located in Puerta Plata in the Dominican. So if you were making reservations you would be flying into Puerta Plata, Dominican Republic!!! Check with Cheap Caribbean.com...they are the best!!!! The exact address is:
Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Club
P.O. Box 608
Columbus Plaza, Torre 1
Playa Cofressi
57000 Puerta Plata, Dominican Repiblic
Fishlady
Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort & Spa,
Cofresi Beach, Puerto Plata, P.O. Box 608,
Dominican Republic Puerto Plata Dominican
Republic,
Caribbean,
Phone 1-809-970-7777
beaz
Your husband is in the military and you are going to go to this place?
Oh Lord.. Just save your self the headache and go to another location.
Trust me. This is the worse RESORT by far!!!!!!
OlgaRod
Some reviews talk about a vacation membership. What is this?7 answers
6 years, 74 months ago
Clark, NJ
Every morning they wait for you and hound you to buy into the place and we were told it does not stop there after you buy they hound you to upgrade DON'T DO IT even the owner I spoke with are not thrilled
sadlyDisappointed
They try to sell you either a 40 yr plan or a block of weeks
marconarco00
They try to convince to you that you should become a member. But as long as you tell them that you can not afford it they stop bothering you about it.
Nessa768
they try to make you buy time share you just let them know your not going to buy and they go away and then you canenjoy your trip
ratdog
The Lifestyle Holiday Vacation Club is a timeshare. Guests are not required to participate in the presentations.
KellyCC
A vacation membership is nothing but a time share option that they push to the guests through what they call "your sponsor" or "assistant". They can be very aggressive with the sales pitch at times to the point of frustrating you, just give the person a ten dollar bill and tell them to leave you alone the rest of your vacation. Understand that the economy situation is pretty rough for the locals, they are very humble and trying to make a living.
closr42
Please read my review below, a "membership" is a timeshare. If you book thru Cheap Caribbean, you are NOT a VIP Member. The reason why the trip is so cheap is to get you to buy a timeshare there. ONce you do, you get to have better everything.
I could write a 100 page book about this resort. I read many reviews on trip advisor before we went, but the reviews are so mixed, it was hard to tell what to believe. I will tell you that this resort is not ran like other all-incusive resorts. Other resorts you just show up and have fun. Here we spent the first 2 days understanding the sytems they have in place.
We booked with Cheap Caribbean, and stayed for a week, and we were bored by day 4. Don't stay longer than 5 days, there is not that much to do and the resort is small. Yes, you can access the Confresi resort, but that is small too. Also, the water is NOT BLUE like in the photos. It looks like regular ocean water. You cannot snorkel unless you book an excursion. You can use a mask, but water is so cloudy you cant see anything. Also there are big huge rocks under the water, I saw several people cut their feet. Also, the beach is not cleaned or combed. There is seaweed and junk everywhere. Also the beach is public, so there are pushy local vendor huts on the actual beach that bug you constantly. The vendor huts also are not in the resorts photos, wonder why..
Definitely pay for the airport transfers with Olympus Tours, it's well worth it, otherwise who knows where you'd end up. Make sure to bring about $200 in singles, because you have to tip everyone to get service at bars, airport, etc., otherwise they ignore you. The drinks are very good, not watered down at all. The pools are beautiful. The grounds are well kept and clean. Make sure you get a room in building 5 or 6. The older the building, the lower the number - building 1 is terribly old and beat up, and very noisy by the pool. As the room numbers go up, the quality of the room goes up. Buildings 1-4 have creepy bathroom windows that people walking by can see into!! Also, the maids are very nice. They take your room towels away at 10 am and dont return them until 4 pm. So yu have no towels all day long. Bring your own towel from home to avoid this issue. Now about the food - it is misrepresentated by Cheap Caribbean. If you book thru Cheap Caribbean, you will be forced to eat every single meal at the buffets. You are only allowed 2 dinners per week stay at one of the restaurants, and you have to present your paper voucher at the given restaurant when you arrive. We were allowed to eat once at Bellini (Italian like Olive Garden) and once at Blue Lagoon (Like Red Lobster). Dont let the website trick you into thinking you can eat at all these places, it a lie. You can however go beg the guest services desk for an extra meal out at the restuants, any they put you on a waiting list, but slim chance you will get it. o I hope you like crowded buffets. Also, the only time the food is good in the buffets is when it first opens. After that it is all gross and cold and touched by people not using tongs.
Then there is the class system- Cheap Caribbean and other "poor people" guests wear a yellow wristband 24 hours a day. This wristband restricts your access to the restaurants, and VIP areas are off limits. The rich people get gold,red or blue wristbands, allowing them access to golf carts, special areas, better rooms, better food, VIP areas, and top shelf booze. Cheap Caribbean also "gives you a little taste" of the VIP life by letting you go to the VIP Beach area. This is the area with beds on the beach, and the only place we could get top shelf liquor. They give you a taste of this good life, then make you wonder how much better the good life is, then the Men In White Shirts start in on you. They hound you until you go on their "tour". We just got it over with the first day, and after that they just leave you alone. So just go get it over with, we told them we were broke and they let us leave after 40 minutes. Really the whole reason why the trip is so cheap is because this is a timeshare place. They want to sell you a timeshare.
Don' t leave the resort unless on a guided excursion - you will see why on the van ride from the airport. Also, do not lose your blue POOL only towel, as the resort will charge you $20 for a new one, they watch over towels by making yiou use a "towel card" to check your pool towels in and out. The entertainment was ok. A few good shows- like on a cruise ship. Also, DO NOT DRINK THE FRUIT JUICE USED IN mixed drinks like the Yellowbird, the Pina Colada, etc. It will make you very ill because it is UNPASTURIZED. The ice and fountain drinks are fine because it is purified water. But the juices make me very ill. I spent the last 2 days of the trip vomiting and severe pain and diarreea. I wouldve went to the ER if in America, but the hospital in Puerta Plata was so scary looking, I'd rather die in the hotel room then go there. I am now on antibiotics for the bacterial infection I got there. Also, it rains there every single day, bring a hat or poncho. Also, the Sunday party is AWESOME!! Great food and entertainment, don't miss it.
All in all you get what you pay for. If you just want to go sit on a beach/at a pool and get drunk and eat at buffets, then this is the trip for you. If you want good food, good service and relaxation then go somewhere else, or pay the upcharges to be a VIP. If we could do this trip over again, we'd have paid more for a better time - and I wouldnt have drank the fruit juice.
BeachComber78
Just another name for a timeshare.
MAHALO
whats the best building to stay in any floor better the another8 answers
looking or good view easy acess to beachand pool
6 years, 74 months ago
dory
4 rooms 4213 ---4223 great view
sadlyDisappointed
Building # 5 and # 6 are the closes to the beach. There is a pool outside # 5 and # 6. There are 3 floors in # 5. I would recommend the 3rd floor with the balcony. Please note, there are no elevators.
Tricks
if you cant walk alots of stairs this is not the place for you
ther lots of stairs and hill
ratdog
Buildings can be requested, however, they are unable to be guaranteed as they are based on availability upon check in at the resort.
MariaCC
Building 5 and 6 are the best if you prefer a more quiet building. We requested building 5 and they honored our request. We were quite happy.
Candito
We stayed in building 4 at the Tropical and I would not do that again. All of the buildings at the Tropical seemed to be roughly the same. Our bathroom was very small with low water pressure and inconsistent hot water. Get a room on an upper level floor to be able to take in the views from the balcony. Building 5 is closer to the water.
noyouare
Buildings 1,2,3 are the oldest and most run down. Building 4 is better. Buildings 5 and 6 are the newest and best. The higher the building number, the better the quality. Also, buildings 5 and 6 are the quiet ones, stay away from building 1 beacuse screaming drunk people all night long by the bar there. Also buildings 1-4 have strange frosted glass bathroom withdows that people can kind of see into when they walk by. Buildings 5 and 6 have no windows in the bathrooms, which is better.
BeachComber78
I think their standard rooms are the most convenient. The higher priced rooms are far from everything you need a golf cart to get to places. Save the money and get the standard room.
Tara87654
I was in building # 4 and loved the location. Other buildings that I heaerd were also good are buildings # 5 and # 6.
MAHALO
Is the Serenity Beach only for time share members7 answers
6 years, 74 months ago
traveler
VIP members and above (I think they are called Shareholders or something like that) can go to Serenity Beach. This is the best beach at the resort, but get there before 10am to find a spot.
noyouare
It is open to all guests, but dont expect too much, that beach is just a part of the whole beach that runs the length of the resort. It's no big deal.
BeachComber78
Yes only for time share and time share ONLY and not worth it.
Deetales
Yes it is ! For members only
bobkat214
members only, and not a timeshare but travel club
topa
Yes, I believe it is. We did not feel in any way like we were missing out by not having access to this beach. Access to the VIP and all the other beaches are beautiful also.
wdgs711
Yep. Sorry. :(
LittlestMacAgain
what is the cost for children under 15?3 answers
children
6 years, 74 months ago
dawnit11
The cost for children under age 15 varies depending on how many adults are staying in the room as well as your travel dates.
MeganCC
children under 3 are free. We had a 16 year old. Pricing is set up kinda wierd. You get the good deals if you have 2 or 4 per room. Just adding a 3rd made our room almost twice as much.
beaz
same cost
Dargis
Is bottled water included in the all inclusive? Where is the bottled water produced?9 answers
6 years, 73 months ago
New York, NY
Unlimited bottled water is not included in the all inclusive package. The bottled water does vary depending on their current water supplier.
MariaCC
yes bottled water is included, don't know where it was produced.
Pebbles0012
Yes bottled water is included, I didnt check where the water was bottled. Our room had a refrigerator that was refilled everyday with bottled water and Beer. I had my daughter with me and we did not have any issues with the food or water.
Tara87654
yes bottled water is included
chynablac139
Yes it is. It is bottled on the island using Osmosis. It is pure.
Bikeguy
All drinks are included.
Unlimited bottled water in the room.
I don't know where produced.
I think is local.
MaxDo
There is bottled water in your room. It is purified locally and is just fine: I have never had problems with it. The first day, take all of the bottled water out of the kitchen and refrig (if there is one) and hide them. This will give you a reserve of water that you can take with you.
LittlestMacAgain
I was just at the r esort and the bottled water is included and is given to you by housekeeping and placed in your refrigerator...four bottles. When you run out just let them know. It was bottled in the Domician Republic. I didn't get sickk at all.
MAHALO
The fridges in the rooms are given three bottles of water at a time. You can request more when they run out. It's free. Tap water is Dominican republic isn't safe to drink. So they provide bottle water at all times. I am not sure where it's produced.
TiaandErica
How much is taxi ride from Puerto Plata airport? Is there a shuttle from the resort?7 answers
6 years, 73 months ago
New York City
Taxi service is not 100% regulated in Puerto Plata, therefore there is not a specific pricing for the ride from the airport to Lifestyle Tropical, and the pricing can vary depending on the taxi service used. The resort does not provide a shuttle from the airport, however when booking your vacation package with CheapCaribbean.com you can add on round-trip transfer services for an additional cost.
KristinCC
Ask your travel agent at the resort...they can get a ride for you otherwise you can walk out to the road and dicker...not so safe tho...
shelzybell
i suggest to book a shuttle through the website because they have great deals. If you try to catch a cab outside they will charge a lot of $$
chynablac139
Taxi there is negotiable about $50 is OK.
No shuttle from resort.
MaxDo
$45-50.00 each way.
Sickboy
yes there are shuttles from the airport. But I believe you must pre book it. I would not take a taxi anywhere in Puerto Plata
lynns427
If I recall correctly, the taxi is $20.00 from the airport to the hotel. Olympus Tour Bus can take you there through Cheap Caribbean. Not sure what we paid for that.
lori13
What's the best option for transportation from airport to hotel?8 answers
6 years, 73 months ago
New York, NY
The cheapest option is a group bus. The taxis are too expensive.
MrsAlvarez
Make sure you get this included in your travel package. If not, the transportation is very expensive.
Bikeguy
Provided by CheapCaribbean
MaxDo
Told it was $50 for a taxi. Shuttle goes to several resorts if you want in/out pay the extra money otherwise go for a ride with a transfer.
Bostonians
I really appreciated the option Cheap Caribbean provides to add a shuttle to your package. It seemed like the safest option, and the service was prompt.
Melania
Thy provide a shuttle. I wouldn't travel any other way
shai1
Arranging your transportation in advance is highly recommended! A shared or private transfer is available. This must be done no later than 48 hour prior to arrival. Taxis are available but may not be metered. The Olympus representative will help you make the best of your vacation and will assist you by providing helpful information about the hotel, surrounding areas, local customs and more. They can also reserve optional tours and return airport transfers.
KellyCC
Do the rounnd-trip transfers with Alympus Tours through Cheap Caribbean.
MAHALO
Beaches10 answers
Is the Lifestyle beach and the Confresi Beach private?
5 years, 72 months ago
Long Island, New York
Some what private. They let the natves in on the weekend. I was a bit leary aout that but everyont was ther for a good time
shai1
No beach in the Dominican Republic is private.
MariaCC
No It is a public beach anyone can go to that beach
lynns427
All Dominican beachs are public, however, the resort built walls back from the water. The stairs are manned by resort security, so you don't need to worry when you are on the resorts' "beach".
wannabesomewherewarm
The resort covers most of the beach in the cove. People can walk down the beach from outside but the beaches are monitored by the resort security so pan handlers and people trying to sell you something are run off quickly. Everyone wears a colored wrist band that tells their level of access to various beach club areas and bars. They are checked by security for anyone coming off the public area of the beach.
PandDfromJersey
not at all, plus, locals are coming over from time to time and you have to be careful with your towels specially.
suntan777
The beach front is public. Access is made difficult, but not impossible, for non-guests. It's recommended that you don't go on the beach during the dark hours.
LittlestMacAgain
I was just at the resort and there were only the people who stayed at both resorts in the beach area. Most people stayed at the Cabana areas. Went in the water to swim or snorkle.
MAHALO
yes and no the beaches border public beach, but the resort has security to keep the nonemployed locals off the resort.
tgobrick
Neither beach is private. As soon as you step foot on the beach people (not from the hotel) will solicit you to buy various things. The beach is not nice and quite dirty.
jane12345
Can a guest staying at the resort have an overnight paying guests after check- in during their stay?2 answers
5 years, 71 months ago
Flyinglow
No, anyone staying in the room would be charged as a guest. Guest passes are available during the day at an additional cost so that guests my use the amenities, however they are not permitted to spend the night in the room.
ccsusan1
Only if you have purchased thr VIP membership and even then, it depends on what level of membership you have purchased. Some of the memberships have unlimited stays so you csan send as many guests as you want.
stevew99
Kids pay?2 answers
I HAVE A 12 MONTH OLD BABY AND A 4 YEAR OLD. What is the cost for them?
5 years, 71 months ago
leruso
Children from the ages of 4 through twelve are charged the children's rate. The amount of that charge is dependent upon the rate code which is in place for your dates of travel.Feel free to call one of our Beach Experts to price a trip for you.
ccsusan1
Personally I wouldn't bring them to this resort, unless they like to stay up late and eat food they are not used to.
LareBare
does it cost extra to fly from Portland or2 answers
5 years, 70 months ago
Portland or
Yes, flying from airports other than MIA or FLL would affect the cost of the trip, as well as your specific travel dates, as certain days of the week and times of the year are more expensive to fly.
ccsusan1
Yes, it does . There are no direct flight from Portland to Puerto Plata . You will need to connect from another city.
gladadou
What type of alcohol is served??6 answers
can you tell me is the alcohol of top shelf, mid shelf or cheap stuff??
5 years, 70 months ago
maria
The only beer is Presidente and only VIP areas and "Members Only" have top shelf liquor. Also, the wine is awful.
JAD114
Cheap stuff and not even good tasting cheap stuff.
Dargis
Mid shelf mostly. Dont expect any American brands. Mostly all Dominican
LizK
if you go vip it is top shelf johnny red, black, beefeaters, tangurie, stoli they will have what you would want to drink, but as far as beer I only seen President thier national brew.
tgobrick
cheap stuff unless you buy a timeshare then you get a VIP wristband and can get better alcohol
jane12345
Presidente is the local beer. It is the only beer we found to be served. The pool bars will serve cheaper liquor. More top shelf liquor is served on the VIP beach.
kdctennis77
What does ocean world mean4 answers
5 years, 70 months ago
Azapril2001
Ocean World is a very expensive Seaquarium next to the resort, the one day pass is $70
Dargis
Ocean World is an attraction where you can see dolphins, sea lions, tigers, tropical birds, sharks and stingrays. You can snorkel, swim with the dolphins or interact with the other animals.
LizK
it is their version of marine land, They have a party there every thurs. which you can go to and they provide the shuttle to there and back it also has a casino there. I dad not venture there this trip but may get there on the next one.
tgobrick
Ocean world is a sort of sea world. It has animals and swimming with dolphins and whatnot.
TiaandErica
Does this resort offer any wedding packages? IE: Ceremony/Reception services and group discounts.2 answers
5 years, 70 months ago
Ale
I wouldn't recommend having your wedding here. This resort is not nice and I'm sure you want your wedding to be something special to remember.
jane12345
I was in the bridal party for a June 2012 wedding at LifeStyle Resort. They did not offer group discounts nor did they make any special accommodations for us - and we had over 90 people at the resort for an entire week. The Bride had a very bad experience with them - the Wedding Planner was not responsive and refused to help set up a Rehearsal Dinner. They wanted to charge the Bride $4,000 for Rehearsal Dinner for 30 people at an all inclusive resort. I would not recommend having your wedding there.
vacababe
Is the lifestyle beach resort nude swimming3 answers
Hi, is there any nude beaches on resort
5 years, 70 months ago
frank
No, the beach is very tiny and dirty. I wouldn't even recommend going on it.
jane12345
No. It is mostly all Americans. Unlike in Mexico, we saw NO nudity! We even only saw 2 males wearing speedos and they were the only 2 Europeans there.
kdctennis77
No. It's a family resort.
TiaandErica
Do you need your passport to travel to the Dominican Republic-Puerto Plata?6 answers
5 years, 70 months ago
Texas
Yes, you need your passport to travel anywhere outside of the U.S
AnneG
yes you do
Benny3
yes
prin
Yes
Moore
Yes you do. And their very struck about seeing it!
TiaandErica
YES
lori13
Is the food really that bad? Are all of the rooms nice, or does it depend on the building? How does the restaurant reservation work?6 answers
5 years, 69 months ago
Dice
I thought the food was good. They try to have a little variety each night. You are given one reservation. You can change it but it involves waiting in a line and then you are just put on a waiting list. I was able to switch my reservation with another person while waiting in the line. The rooms are nice, just like a regular hotel room, nothing extra special. Unless you got some money.
ThriftyTravler
A la carte dining is offered at seven specialty restaurants, which all require reservations. During periods of high occupancy, it may not be possible to secure reservations for all nights of the stay. Some of the specialty restaurants my include Asian, Seafood, International, Italian, Tex-Mex, Dominican, Indian, Brazilian and Sushi Bar.
MariaCC
The rooms are the same unless you are a VIP member...much nicer. However, they keep the standard rooms clean.
They make a couple reservations for you when you first arrive, but some restaurants don't require reservations.
Moore
reservations are a joke they chose the day and time and restaurant for you... You can go on a waiting list if you get there by 8:15 am/// The buffet was good every night was a different theme.. Kids ate well and didn't complain
macy
All of the rooms are nice and include a balcony. Some come with couches and chairs while others do not. The food is generally the same everyday, which can get repetitive and annoying. When you check in they give you two pre-made reservations (or they did for us and I did not ask). If you want to make other reservations you have to visit Guest Services between 9 am and 10am.
TiaandErica
Yes food is really bad me my husband my daughter and my inlaws all got sick from it and ruined 1/2 of our vacation
MelFry
How is the night life?2 answers
5 years, 69 months ago
NY
Lifestyle offers a few different options for nightlife on their property, including the Beach Club Bar (located on the beach) which offers snacks along with exotic drinks and fruit juices all day and night - Open 24 hours. You also have access to the Thursday Night Ocean World Party and the Sunday Welcome Party.
KristinCC
There is a night club at a sister resort (which you can take a shuttle too). We didn't go in. So I can't speak on how it is inside.
TiaandErica
How is the beach?5 answers
5 years, 69 months ago
LI
Its ok, very strong waves and yellow sand
ivivaldez
The water was warm, there was a lot of seaweed and the water wasn't clear as we had hoped.
macy
Puerto Plata is on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic therefore it boarders the Atlantic Ocean rather than the Caribbean Sea. Although the beach is nice, the sand is dark and coarser than neighboring beaches. But, thanks to the Bali-beds scattered along the shore, your toes have a plush alternative.
MariaCC
They have security guards from the resort watch certain areas of the beach. Beware that there are people selling things on the beach that are not apart of the resort. Also note that the water is very harsh and forceful. So the waves can pull you in more easily. Besides that the beach is clean and fun.
TiaandErica
Not the best beach I have been at in the caribbean, but very nice. Sand is brown, not white, there are waves at this resort. slants a little near the VIP area but flattens out down the beach. Can go walking or jogging on this beach, no one bothers you
denise
How is the sailing?2 answers
5 years, 69 months ago
LI
The quality of the sailing on/around this resort can vastly depend on the water that day (rough/calm) and the wind conditions as well.
KristinCC
not good at all. The place is bad
BarbK
is there alot of topless sunbathing in november and ecember more than normal or other months6 answers
is there alot of topless sunbathing in november and ecember more than normal or other months
5 years, 69 months ago
ny
Occupancy in general at the hotel can increase during Novemeber and December due to the (US) Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Topless sunbathing is permitted on the beach, but it is not permitted around the pools or around the bar areas.
KateHCC
There was none in Aug.
USADiver
I didn't see any topless sunbathing the whole week I was there!
stevew99
No, I believe it is prohibited in there.
jnizzle
no topless sunbathing allowed on the property
denise
I did not see any topless bathing
Mamanewt
what is exactly included with the vip beach a d parties package. like were we can go on the resort the room type and what resturants we can eat at3 answers
5 years, 69 months ago
ny
Guests of Lifestyle Tropical have access privileges to facilities at Lifestyle Crown Residence Suites and Cofresi Palm Beach, but not to the facilities of Villas. By booking with Cheap Caribbean.com, you have the following amenities:
Access to the laid-back VIP Beach, including premium brand drinks, sushi bar, two Jacuzzis and wait-service for food and beverage from sun beds
Access to the Thursday Ocean World Party; this special party takes place every Thursday at Ocean World and includes free transportation from and to the hotel, snacks, live band, drinks, free admission to Bravissimo show and free admission to the Casino & Lighthouse Disco (drinks are NOT included). Weather permitting. Day of week of party subject to change.
Sunday Welcome Party; this special party takes place every Sunday in the Peninsula area with a nice ocean view. Includes, gala dinner buffet, international drinks, live band, Carnival show, dancer & singer show, spectacular fireworks show. Weather permitting. Day of week of the party is subject to change.
You also have access to the following restaurants and bars, Indochine (Asian), reservations required, The Blue Lagoon (Seafood) Reservations required, Casablanca Buffet Restaurant (International), Bellini Pizza and Pasra at Crown Residences and Suites (Italian) Dinner reservations required, Trapiche Paradise at Royal Suites (Tex-Mex) Dinner reservations required, El Piln at Cofresi Palm Beach (Dominican) reservations required, Moomtaz at Cofresi Palm Beach (Indian) reservations required, The Pearl at Cofresi Palm Beach (International Buffet), Rodizio at Cofresi Palm Beach (Braxilian reservations required, Zun at VIP Beach (Sushi Bar)
Bars
The resort has four bars, but guests are allowed and encouraged to visit the bars and restaurants at the neighboring sister resorts, Residence Suites and Crown Suites. Bars are open until late and hours are subject to change.
Las Canas-Swim up Pool Bar
Tortuga-ocean-side bar.
La Cayena-late night lobby bar.
Beach Club Bar
KateHCC
We had the VIP beach which includes ONE VIP beach and one beach party that is buffet style food. You can get into the clubs but for VIBE, drinks are extra. Our room was fine. We had a Queen bed. It was roomy and comfortable with a fridge.
lori13
You get 2 reservations at the specialty restaraunts ( they pick which restaraunts) if you are staying a minimum of 7 days, other nights you have to eat at the buffet which in my opinion was not that good at all. There is 1 VIP beach you are allowed to enter that is very nice. The room type for the cheap caribbean deal was not that nice at all. It was OK for the price but comparable to a 2 star motel.
stevew99
where can we converting U.S. dollars to Mexican pesos at the resort?6 answers
Does this hotel have any way where we can converting U.S. dollars to Mexican pesos? i know we can do this at the POP airport but what if we need more pesos to spend?
5 years, 68 months ago
DR
The Dominican Republic utilizes Dominican Pesos as their country's currency. Most, if not all areas of the resort will take US dollars and also credit cards. You can exchange US dollars for Dominican Pesos at the airport. The resort may exchange currency as well, but you would need to check directly with them for confirmation, and for further information on their exchange rate, hours of operation, etc.
KristinCC
There is an exchange desk in the lobby of Livestyles Tropical Resort. Better rate thn airport.
USADiver
Don't exchange at the airport or the resort! Neither will give you fair market exchange (they use the DR peso, not the mexican peso), and they all have different rates. Use your US dollars; everyone takes them, and your money will go a LOT farther that way.
They do have a currency exchange at the hotel, but, when we were there, the rate was around 41. The hotel exchanged at a rate of 35, meaning you automatically lose out, right from the door.
newmama
There is a desk in the lobby to convert American dollars to pesos.
lori13
Yes you can convert at the resort in the lobby. The value at the resort is a little lower. Its 35 pesos to $1 US dollar
MissInternational
The resort has a currency exchange but they don't give you good rates. You're better off going into Puerta Plata city and exchanging. It is safe. The resort gives you 35 pesos for 1 US dollar. In the city, you get 41 pesos for 1 US dollar. Everyone takes dollars though, I didn't need to exchange any money while I was there.
stevew99
beach pass6 answers
if you only have the simple vip beach pass ( the prmo thats going on now for 639) exactly how many places are there to eat at and what are the rooms like (do they have tub and shower combos for those rooms) and how many pools are there
5 years, 68 months ago
ny
The resort offers 10 restaurants between Lifestyle Tropical and Cofresi Beach, which you will have access to. You will be guaranteed at least 1 specialty restaurant during your stay. There are 2 pools at the resort for you to enjoy. The rooms have 2 Queen size beds or one King size bed, air conditioning, ceiling fan, direct dial telephone, cable TV, balcony or terrace, coffee maker, iron and ironing board, radio-alarm clock, private bathroom, hair dryer, mini-fridge.
KristenCC
They try to keep you in the buffet for food, or you can order snacks down at the VIP beach. But, you'll get 2 dinner reservations, and you can go to guest services and get in the lottery for extra reservations. They won't tell you, but you can go to any of the restaurants for lunch, without reservations, and one of the bartenders told us just to go where we wanted to eat, and they would seat us. We did do this one night, at the Mexican restaurant, and they seated us without any problems.
The rooms did NOT have a combo shower/tub; just a shower. And it doesn't have a door, so you need to be careful because water can get everywhere.
They had an adult pool with swim-up bar, and then a big pool below that, with 2 sides. There are also cold tubs down on the VIP beach (I think there were 4 of those down there)
newmama
Depends on the length of your stay. We stayed 6 days and we got 2 restaurants. They pick the place and times which suck. I had the mexican one night and I was stuck in my room sick all night. The rooms are okay. I guess it depends on the building. I stayed in buiding 5 and I only had a standup shower. My aunt stayed in 1100 and they had a tub. There is a pool right by building 5 that is always free not a lot of being in that one. Then there is the main pool where the swim up bar is. I stayed at the vip one most of the time in there cold tub.
MissInternational
Our room had shower only. There are 3 pools. There is one restuarant you can eat at without a reservation, The Casablanca, otherwise you must go to the lobby every a.m. and be put on a waiting list for the restarant of choice. We never got a reservation before 9 so we didn't eat at any other resturant.
Bodie
There are a few restaurants to chose but some are only open on certain days and when you arrive, you get two reservations and have to go to guest services in the a.m. th get resevations for the night. Our room only had a shower. The VIP beach that's included is awesome and have beds and that's the only free wifi on that resort.
jnizzle
My husband and I had the simple VIP pass and while getting reservations at some of the specialty restaurants was impossible we were able to go to other specialty restaurants 4 of the 6 nights we were there. There were parties the other 2 nights. Our room was very nice. We had 2 queen size beds and a very nice bathroom with a large shower (no tub). I am mostly a beach person and did not use the swimming pools but they never looked crowded. There were plenty of lounge chairs at the pool areas and plenty of beach beds on the beach. Do use the VIP beach the service is much better there.
Mamanewt
I just did the VIP Beach pass at tropical resort - probably the same promo you are looking at. The rooms were older in style but very comfortable and had what you need for the amount of time you spend in there - which is truly to sleep. There is a safe in the room that is an additional cost for the week but well worth it for your passport/phone and extra money. You have access to several beaches or beach areas with cabanas/beds/drinks - it is great! There are also other resorts - also owned by Lifestyle that you have access to their pools with this pass - I recommend Cofresi - their pools are awesome with lots of space.
travelsaavy
If we booked without Ocean World what is the cost do to that for a day?3 answers
And what all does it include?
5 years, 68 months ago
SLC UT
Ocean World Day Passes are $55.00per person (pricing subject to change)
Admission includes :
--Round trip bus transfers (surcharges apply for some hotels)
--Snorkeling in Tropical Reef Aquarium (equipment included)
--Swimming in Tiger Grotto (separated from tigers by a glass wall.)
--Rain forest and Bird Exhibits
--Observation of Sea Lion Show, Dolphin Show, Shark Show and Tropical Bird Show
--Usage of Dolphin Beach (beach lounge chairs included)
--Free use of the Aquaglide located on the Dolphin Beach and free educational program for all children
The information contained in this voucher is subject to change at any time, without prior notice.
Ocean World is CLOSED On Mondays
KristenCC
On Thursday its free, $69 entry fee otherwise. If you book a tour such as swimming with the dolphins that includes entry fee.
naphill44
Ocean world day pass is about $68 per person. You get to see the shows and see the animals. If you want to swim with the dolphins or sharks or do extras, it is anywhere from $100-$200 extra per person. We went and only stayed half a day. It was OK, but we didn't feel like spending the extra $200 per person to swim with the dolphins.
stevew99
I know that they have Royal Dolphin Swim for 1 hour + Sea Lions for 30 minutes and one day pass, COST: 199$ (This is the most expensive option that they have, the rest is cheaper, it is depends what you need.)
ACNYC
WHat time does the VIP Welcome Party begin on Sunday?6 answers
I will not arrive to the hotel until 4:30pm on Sunday. WHat time does the VIP Welcome party begin and do you need reservations?
5 years, 68 months ago
Donna
I believe the dinner started at 6:30. You should have plenty of time to get down there, and it is, by far, the best meal you'll get while there.
newmama
You would be best to check with the resort directly as to the start time of the VIP party on the date of your arrival as it can vary from time to time due to other events, weather, and other variables.
KristinCC
The party started around 6:30. You do not need reservations. It's on the beach with an outdoor buffet. You can take a shuttle or walk.
lori13
The VIP welcome party starts at 8. Get there early so you get a good seat by the stage. Its outside along with the HUGE buffet they serve.
MissInternational
You don't need reservations. The VIP party started at 8PM but we had a music group at the resort that day so there was a free concert instead. They only serveed alcohol, no food!
stevew99
no reservations needed its for every guest. Starts at 7:00pm. Its fabulous. Get there a little early if you can to get good seats.
kiannasnana
Is this an all inclusive package for two people?3 answers
Is this an all inclusive package for two people, or is it 39$ per night per person? Depending on the room we chose, will it be more per night? Is there transportation from the closest airport to the hotel? How old do you need to be to drink?
5 years, 67 months ago
Des
The price is based on double occupancy per person per night. It would be additional to upgrade your room category and the roundtrip airport transfer service can be added for an additional charge during the booking process. Any guest under the age of 23 traveling must have their legal parent/guardian, however, the legal age to drink in the Dominican Republic is 18 years old.
MariaCC
I believe the price is per person, per night. You have to inquire about the rooms. If you book with Cheap Caribbean, they use Olympus Tours, which takes you to the hotel. We were told they allow you to drink at 14. I would say 18 is safe, though there was a 15 year old drinking at the resort.
lori13
We booked transportation through cheap Caribbean and it was about 20 minutes away. You can opt to take a taxi from the airport but honestly its more expensive because they try to get over on you cause your american and its a little shady (you might not get to your desired location). In DR, you are an adult at age 16...so marriage, drink, etc.
Nina85
Do u have accommodations for the handicapped?6 answers
Do u have accommodations for the handicapped in a wheel chair? Such as elevators, accessible rooms and bathrooms? Please list what accommodations u
have?
Thanks
5 years, 67 months ago
Mike
As CheapCaribbean.com does not include any wheelchair accessible rooms, it would be best to contact the resort directly. For your convenience, the link directly to the resort's website to contact them is https://www.lhvcresorts.com/contact.html.
MariaCC
Yes, there are ramps and the rooms and bathrooms are handicap accessible.
Nel25
Hi- they do have wheel chair ramps around the resort and first floor rooms. I do know know if the there are bathrooms that are accessible.
SpecialK
No elevators but they do have ramps and you would have to ask for a 1st floor room. Very hilly so might be hard to get around easy, but I did see people in wheelchairs.
jnizzle
Not handicapped friendly lots of steps and rough sidewalks, no elevators
MikeS
NO!!! Not even for people who need little assistance.
PMMal
What is ocean world? How much is it?6 answers
5 years, 67 months ago
Drew
Ocean World is similar to Sea World with water slides and shows. Right next to the resort which offers a shuttle to the Thursday night show. I'm not sure of the individual price because it was included in our package.
Bodie
Ocean World is a marine animal park, similar in nature to Sea World. You can purchase a day pass for $55 per adult or $40 per child. If you wish to add this optional excusrion to your existing reservation, please call 1-800-915-2322.
KateHCC
We didn't go this time but we did look into it.
Ocean World is a a short shuttle trip away from the resort - you can actually see it from the beach front of the resort.
They offer my shows such as - shark show (never seen one of these), dolphin show, sea lion show. I don't know the scheduling of the shows - how many a day.
My daughter was told to wear bathing suits since there was swimming with the fish.
The cost was $69 for adult & our grandson, age 4, was going to be $59.
We will be going back to the resort again & will budget to include Ocean World.
Hope you have a great time!
cherylem2003
equivalent to sea world and it is $55 us dollars per person
dawnies27
Ocean Worl is like Sea World it was the best part of our trip my 5 yr old daughter loved it and so did we;) it is pricey but worth it.
MelFry
Ocean World is like the Dominican Republic's version of Sea World, with a casino. Some rooms at the hotel include admission into Ocean World, but if you book through Cheap Caribbean your hotel room does not include admission. I think it was about $120 per adult for admission, but I am not 100% sure of that.
kban11
Do the rooms included in the extravaganza sale have an ocean view?6 answers
5 years, 67 months ago
NJ
The extravaganza sale room category does not come with an oceanview. In order to receive an oceanview room, you would need to book 'Superior Ocean View' room.
KristinCC
No
Jppat1
A partial ocean view as the buildings run perpendicular to the ocean
DaveB123598
Most of the rooms have a partial ocen view. Try to get the third floor for the best views. You have mountains on one side and the beach and ocen in front of you. We stayed in the last set of rooms at the end of the Tropical property, much quieter and the closest to the VIP area
denise
some have a partial oceanview
dawnies27
Yes but the ocean view involves being near the pool and it is very loud at all hours of the night and loud in morning.
MelFry
VIP membership2 answers
We are already a VIP member for this location, do you offera flight only to the POP airport?
5 years, 66 months ago
queenofshoppers
Unfortunately CheapCaribbean.com does not do 'flight-only' bookings. CheapCaribbean.com books land only and land/air packages.
ChrisCC
Unfortunately CheapCaribbean.com does not do 'flight-only' bookings. CheapCaribbean.com books land only and land/air packages.
MariaCC
Why would you go back?
PMMal
What's the drinking age3 answers
5 years, 65 months ago
New York
The legal drinking age in the Dominican Republic is 18 years old.
KellyCC
They will not ask
pendos
They dont ask you for ID at all. Only at check in. They give you bands for your stay
TheTates
18
jsmith
Does this special apply for Dominicans also2 answers
5 years, 65 months ago
Dominican Republic
Offer valid only for USA, Canadian and European citizens that are resident in the USA, Canada and Europe.
Payment will only be accepted with a credit card that is registered in USA, Canada or Europe. Reservations will
not be accepted from the local market. CheapCaribbean.com reserves the right to cancel bookings that do not
meet this criteria. Upon arrival clients will be requested to present their passport as part of the regular check in
process. Clients not able to provide their passport will not be allowed to check in, or will be will be required to
pay a higher rate.
KellyCC
The reason it is so cheap is because you're obligated to go on a time share presentation. If you aren't a US citizen (or Canada), it won't work.
HappyinNY
What dates are 24.00 a night?2 answers
What nights are 24.00 a night? I keep getting different prices. Example: I was looking at June but it says 44.00 a night.
5 years, 65 months ago
Jill
The rate is per person per night, based on double occupancy. Additional guest restrictions may apply. You must select the Extravaganza Sale.
•Superior Room - Extravaganza Sale
•Ocean World Not Included
•4 Night Minimum Stay, 7 Night Maximum Stay
•Travel: April 3 - October 31, 2013
KellyCC
out of season rates usually october thru february
yotimbo1967
Age requirement2 answers
I am not 23 years old can I still book if I go out of spring break time
5 years, 65 months ago
Suzy124
Student/Youth Travelers are defined by the resort as any guest under the age of 23 traveling without their legal parent/guardian. Please be advised that Spring Breakers and Student/Youth GROUPS under the age of 23 are not accepted at this resort. This policy applies year round. If you do not adhere to the Student/Youth Policy upon booking, your reservation will be canceled and you will be notified accordingly. Resort may require legal documentation to verify age prior to check-in; if the minimum age is not met and student/youth is not traveling with parent or legal guardian, check-in will be denied and a credit will not be issued.
MariaCC
Yes, if you pay ahead of time you can. That's what the other spring breakers at the resort did.
Malvagia
My wife and I have three children - 6, 9 & 10. Looks like this hotel can't accommodate us? Is that right?2 answers
5 years, 65 months ago
Maryland
Many families were there with their children. The resort has a kid care club and a teen club. He had an eight year old in our group who loved the kid club. The kids were taken to Ocean World and horse back riding. The kids also put on a poolside performance
SunSeeker1956
Maximum Occupancy in most rooms is: 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children. Your family would need to book 2 rooms at this hotel.
KellyCC
Is this an all inclusive hotel??2 answers
Where can I find the differences from one room to another?
5 years, 65 months ago
ecualady81
The resort is all inclusive and features all meals (buffet breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks), alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, privileged use of all restaurants, bars and facilities at Lifestyle Crown Residence Suites and Cofresi Palm, shuttle service around the resort and 24-hour on site Medical Services. The room categories are displayed directly on our website under the 'Room Details' section and each room category contains a 'details' link which can be clicked to view each room category.
MariaCC
Yes, it is all-inclusive. We upgraded and got a room in an area which was U-Shaped of 2-story units (maybe a total of 80). In the center was a private pool. The room had a separate bedroom, a great room, and bath. It was nice, but remote and we walked a lot. The 2nd time we went, we stayed within the complex which was 2-stories like a motel and only had a bedroom....we liked it better....had frig and balcony.
Wookie
Does the special rate apply if my spouse has an European permanent recidency but Dominican passport?2 answers
My spose is a permanent European resident. So far my spose has Dominican passport. Would that affect the price we need to pay upon arrival???
5 years, 65 months ago
Matthew
The resort does check passports upon arrival and may charge additional for any guests with a Dominican Republic passport.
MariaCC
You have to pay a 10$ (US) fee per person if you are a tourist. If she has a valid R.D. passport, then probably not. Even so, it's just 10 bucks.
Skyhook
How is the body surfing in this area?3 answers
5 years, 65 months ago
Wisconsin
The surf is better in Puerto Plata as compared to Punta Cana. Many guests do enjoy the body surfing.
KellyCC
Not bad at the hotel, but excellent at nearby beaches.
billb
The beach at the resort is poor for body surfing. The waves are breaking hard much further out so by the time they get to the beach they are significantly diminished. It looks like much of the coastline in this area is that way.
milr
Is it handicapped accessible?2 answers
5 years, 64 months ago
fast
I would assume they have handicapped accessible rooms on their ground floors, but none of the buildings housing the guest rooms had any elevators or ramps to the upper floors. However the rest of the resort seemed seemed accessible: there were ramps near every stair case or step and all of the restaurants. The only elevator I saw on the whole site was at VIP World, the building that houses their VIP Service staff and several of the top tier restaurants. I would recommend calling the resort to find out what kind of accommodations are available to handicapped guests before booking.
Klcar974
Some resorts do have handicapped accessible rooms, however, it would be best checking directly with the resort for the most accurate information. The link from the resort's website to contact them directly is https://www.lhvcresorts.com/contact-us/.
MariaCC
Not all resorts in the Dominican Republic are handicapped accessible. For the most accurate information on the inquiry, it would be best checking with the resort. The link directly from the resort's website to contact them is https://www.lhvcresorts.com/contact-us/.
MariaCC
YES for the Most Part
yotimbo1967
what are the taxes and other fees2 answers
What are the taxes and any other fees
5 years, 64 months ago
canada
The price you see advertised does not include any taxes/fees, however, they are added to the total price of the vacation package once a booking is finalized. Those fees are for the airline flights and do vary depending upon the flights you book.
MariaCC
taxes are not to bad----fees included a welcome to the Dominican $10 fee to arrive must be cash at the airport when you arrive....
yotimbo1967
vip beach and parties2 answers
if my travel dates are 1/2-3/31 for the six nights and seven days for 869 using cheap caribbean what is exactly included in my package? what areas can i visit and where can i not go ? and explain the wrist band?
5 years, 64 months ago
ar
All of the inclusions for the resort and the all-inclusive package are listed on the resort's page on our web site. You would have access to most areas of the resort, however for the most up to date and accurate information you would be best to contact the resort directly.
KristinCC
basic package allows to basic areas main pool and buffet and a couple of the restaurants....have to make reservations every day and most times you wont get in......the beach is also included and well as liquer....thats about it...unless you they get you to buy a Membership....starting at $3000 Minimum
yotimbo1967
How much is it to upgrade your room from the standard room booked through CC?2 answers
if you wanted to stay at the suites or confresi
5 years, 64 months ago
long island
To price out any changes to your reservation, including upgrading your room category, you would need to contact CheapCaribbean.com's existing reservations department at 800.915.2322.
KristinCC
We weren't offered upgrade, but we stayed at Cofresi even though we booked for Tropical. I wouldn't recommend unless you want to be away from everything
Tinas7801
Even though we're buying the CC VIP Package, we're not allowed in the VIP Restaurants and Bars?3 answers
It seems that if we're going to spend the money to buy into the cheap caribbean VIP vacation package, we should be allowed to use all of the VIP amenities including all the restaurants and bars? Has anyone had a hard time getting into the VIP areas?
5 years, 64 months ago
New York
Guests of Lifestyle Tropical have access privileges to restaurants, bars and facilities at Cofresi Palm Beach, but not to the facilities of Villas or Timeshare Members areas. CheapCaribbean customers have access to “ VIP Beach”, including premium brand drinks, sushi bar, two Jacuzzis and wait-service for food and beverage from sun beds. Lifestyle guests have access to “Lifestyle Beach”, “Cofresi Beach” and “VIP Beach” but not timeshare/member VIP areas. You may be offered to participate in their timeshare presentation but it is not obligatory for you to participate.
KellyCC
yes you are getting the VIP Package----it is Different than the "MEMBERS" Vip Package---Basic Starts at $3000. I got suckered into one....
yotimbo1967
Not true. If your given a VIP bracelet u have access to all the area and the surrounding resorts. The restaurants tho do require reservation n have a dress code. We had no problems w this. Good luck
Jennygirl
How much is the gold bracelet?4 answers
5 years, 64 months ago
ny
We do not have this information and can not confirm if it is possible to purchase this. Please speak to the Front Desk directly.
KellyCC
minimum $3000 up to $50000 +
yotimbo1967
150 extra a person. All VIP access. But we did it. It's nothing special trust me.
Jennygirl
You have to buy-in to the membership program to be upgraded. Cost varies depending on your ability to negotiate.
LikeToTravel2
Are there workers who stop you from going into the "real VIP" areas?6 answers
I know it's not very honest, but if there's noone like watching to see if I'm a real VIP, since CC VIP is fake, is anyone there who will stop me. Like if I want to go to Serenity beach, is someone really going to tell me no? Or at a VIP bar?
5 years, 64 months ago
NY
yeah we were asked to leave a sports bar cause we had the wrong wrsit band on
jzel32again
LOL Honestly, I tried this when I traveled through Cheap Carribean. The Serenity beach area (black VIP sign) was empty, and I wasn't possitive I COULDN'T go in, so I gave it a try. Laid down on a plush cabana, had someone checking my bracelet and nicely letting me know it wasn't for me within 3 minutes of arriving. Haha Kinda embarassing but they weren't rude like I thought they might be. There is also security at the entrance to the VIP beach area as well, but if you walk up there from the ocean walkway, it may take them a while to kick you outif you head straight for a cabana or cold tub. Good luck!
AESWillowGrove
The staff will check the wrist bands and may direct you to other available amenities based on your wristband.
KellyCC
They sure will. they may not if you dont try to get a drink or food. but if you want to just sit take the chance... this will be my 3rd trip back in a few weeks. I have tried!
INDIANAMM
YES, the staff is checking the ID bands. You have enough off places to visit even without the VIP privilege.
Eurovacationer
YES, there are security people around which is okay because it does make you feel safer when it's dark and outsiders could try and sneak in the resort. There are also security/staff people near the entrances to the vip areas at all times, even when some areas are closed for the night. We were turned away from the vip nightclub near the coliseum.
abcb88
What kind of bracelet do we get?6 answers
What are the types of bracelets and what do they mean?
5 years, 64 months ago
PA
Customers booking this resort through CheapCaribbean.com will receive and white wristband and the following benefits (offer subject to change without notice):
•Access to the laid-back VIP Beach, including premium brand drinks, sushi bar, two Jacuzzis and wait-service for food and beverage from sun beds
•Access to the Thursday Ocean World Party; this special party takes place every Thursday at Ocean World and includes free transportation from and to the hotel, snacks, live band, drinks, free admission to Bravissimo show and free admission to the Casino & Lighthouse Disco (drinks are NOT included). Weather permitting. Day of week of party subject to change.
•Sunday Welcome Party; this special party takes place every Sunday in the Peninsula area with a nice ocean view. Includes, gala dinner buffet, international drinks, live band, Carnival show, dancer & singer show, spectacular fireworks show. Weather permitting. Day of week of the party is subject to change.
KellyCC
There is different color bracelets which represent the different levels. There are the bottom of the bottom bracelets (not sure what color), then the Cheap Carribean Yellow bracelets, then Black and Gold for timeshare holders.
The Yellow Cheap Carribean bracelet gets you access into the VIP beach area on the Tropical side, which has cold jacuzzi tubs, sushi, wait service to you cabana, and top shelf alcohol. The only place you can't get into with this bracelet is a pool area that has a black VIP sign on it, which is just for timeshare members. Not a big loss. Yes, black and gold bracelets mean you get a better chance of getting the dinner reservation of your choice, but since you can tip your way into the restaurants on a typical night, it's no big deal.
AESWillowGrove
you get White Bracelet---Limits where you can go.
Pay the $3000 to upgrade to MEMBER and you get GOLD and go anywhere
yotimbo1967
you get yellow.and you are at the way bottom of the totem pole and they are NOT accomodating. !
Tinas7801
Ours were blue but it did mean ALL inclusive but no super special treatment. Others had shinny Blue VIP which said they were RCI members also there are gold VIP which mean you are a member
forgetmenot
Lifestyle Tropical bracelet is somewhat limited. There are several restaurants and stores and other places where their bracelet will not allow you to go. I strongly suggest another hotel.
BooBerry
Would you recommend this resort for college students?3 answers
How is the night life?
5 years, 64 months ago
Gab
The Tropical Beach Resort and Spa does have a vibrant atmosphere and it is a 24 hour all inclusive; however, the resort applies a policy defining youth and Spring Break travel.
Student/Youth Travelers are defined by the resort as any guest under the age of 23 traveling without their legal parent/guardian. Please be advised that Spring Breakers and Student/Youth GROUPS under the age of 23 are not accepted at this resort. This policy applies year round. If you do not adhere to the Student/Youth Policy upon booking, your reservation will be canceled and you will be notified accordingly. Resort may require legal documentation to verify age prior to check-in; if the minimum age is not met and student/youth is not traveling with parent or legal guardian, check-in will be denied and a credit will not be issued.
KellyCC
The nightlife has a lot of younger ppl. The resort itself was mixed with families, older retired ppl, younger ppl, there were a lot of couples, and there were singles like the group I went with. Once u hit a club or 2, u will find a lot more ppl of your crowd. Lighthouse Disco was a good time. That's nearby at Ocean World. And Pure Nightclub is about 20 mins away was a nice local club with a nice balance of locals and tourists. Music was GREAT.
mizzizz911
Nightlife is good. They have clubs on the property like Lighthouse but there's also clubs in the city like Pure and Cocobongo.
LuluValentine
Night life sucks. Don't waste ur time. 2 clubs one closes at 1. The other at 3. And the music is horrible. Not a good mix at. The space is small too
Jennygirl
Wich is the best building to stay in4 answers
Young single guys want to be near the action near the best swimm up bar
5 years, 64 months ago
New York
Building 6 would be nearest to LAS CANAS (Tequila Sports Bar) -Tropical Pool
KellyCC
I was in building 3 and it was a few steps away from my building.
mizzizz911
It's all good! and dont forget to check the swim up bar at the other resort its all included too, Confresi just take the free shuttle. its all included and so are the drinks and food too. its like 2 for one!
INDIANAMM
Don't go here for a "Night Life."
ChristinaE
are the alcoholic drinks featured with the all inclusive package?6 answers
5 years, 63 months ago
ash
Yes, this resort includes alcoholic drinks.
LaurenCC
Yes
SunseekingNYer
Yes all alcohol and non alcholic beverages are included. Only money you would need to bring out with you is a couple dollars to tip.
mizzizz911
Yes. You can have as many as you want, as strong as you want.
LuluValentine
It sure is!! all you can drink!!! this is going to be my 3rd trip back!
INDIANAMM
Always. But far warning they water down everything so u drink more
Jennygirl
How is the nightlife at this resort?2 answers
5 years, 63 months ago
long island, ny
There are 4 bars and lounges, including the discotheque. Cheap Caribbean clients will also have access to the Thursday night Bravissimo Show at Ocean World and there is scheduled entertainment throughout the week.
LaurenCC
Great----there are shows of some sort every evening- and activities through out the day- a lot of bars- and calmer resturant-like clubs. there is dancing pool-side, and party-like get-togethers
DaniFS
Is there decent snorkeling at Lifestyle Tropical Beach resort?4 answers
5 years, 63 months ago
fishy
The resort may offer some snorkeling off the shore, however, snorkeling is also available for purchase at Ocean World. You may also check with the Olympus Representative on-site at the resort for snorkeling options.
MariaCC
Serenity beach. I think you may have to join the VIP to use though.
Jiminican
No, there is no snorkeling at the resort. You have to go somewhere else to snorkel. I have been there 2x and have never seen anyone try to snorkel in the water there.
Durnkie
No. No fish to be seen. When you go out by the rocky area in the distance, there are sharp, pointy rocks if you try to stand. Beware of sea urchins on the rocks. You do not need to worry about the urchins if you are a typical swimmer. My hubby just likes to swim out far. Only one other guy was out that far while we were there. No problems where you can stand closer to shore.
abcb88
What was the "unbelievable price" everyone got?5 answers
I'm looking at a price of $800 per person for a week.
5 years, 63 months ago
USA
Pricing is based on the travel dates, availability, etc. For pricing inquiries, we do suggest contacting one of our experienced Beach Experts at #1.800.915.2322 for further assistance. Our office is open daily from 5am - 3am EST and there is no additional charge for agent assistance via telephone.
MariaCC
$800 includes airfare and all inclusive, plus you can get rides from the airport.
Durnkie
$900 including air fare
TrixieSousa
I paid 605.00 for 7 days 6 nights. U gotta play w the dates n airport locations a bit. Your paying for flight n hotels and all inclusive drinks n food. It u break it down you should see what your paying for tho Remember if your flying around a holiday or around spring break it's going to costly Good luck
Jennygirl
It was the "Thanksgiving Push" $19 per night all inclusive. That however did not include the airfare or the round trip transfer. You should however book the airfare through them because it's much less expensive than booking it on your own and the round trip shuttle is well worth the $50.
Gibbtrott
When does the thursday Ocean World Party start?2 answers
5 years, 63 months ago
St.Louis
The Ocean World Party starts at 8:00pm. Weather conditions permitting
KristenCC
8:30
Durnkie
Youth/student policy2 answers
It says they do not allow anyone under 23 without a parent, but my fiancé and I (both almost 22) would love to go here for our honeymoon. We will call directly, but I was wondering if anyone has had any sucesss with them bending that policy in similar situations.
5 years, 63 months ago
Katie
The resort will check your passports for verification and they reserve the right to turn away guests. Our best recommendation is to book a resort which does not have a youth travel policy.
LaurenCC
My boyfriend and I just came from there. We are both 21, so you'll be fine.
carribeanme
I have food allergies, how accomidating is this resort to that condition?4 answers
5 years, 63 months ago
ryan
The resort will be able to accommodate your food allergies to an extend. You will need to contact the resort directly to arrange any special dining needs.
KristenCC
I would say forget it. They do not speak English and will not understand what you are saying.
Durnkie
I wouldn't trust them. Being lactose intolerant I ordered a sandwich with no cheese at the VIP beach and was given a sandwich with cheese.
Malvagia
They are NOT very accommodating since everything is pre-made, including the restaurants on site. I had to take a benadryll daily and have my epi-pen on standby. I was allergic to pineapple and it was in everything! even when you asked for no pineapple.
dine121
How do you prove legal guardianship of someone who is over 18?2 answers
The rules state you must be 23 years old or have legal guardianship with you. What can be used to show legal guardianship if the person at hand is 20 years old?
5 years, 63 months ago
Jeff
You would need to contact the resort directly to verify what type of document the resort will accept.
CaitlinCC
Call the resort for the answer to your question. There is staff working that can speak English and they are happy to help you.
ChristinaE
Is there good snorkeling close by?5 answers
I"m planning a trip to DR in late April and want to stay at a smaller all inclusive property. North coast or east? Best snorkeling ?
5 years, 63 months ago
Debbi
There is snorkeling excursions you can purchase at the resort. The closest snorkeling reef is about a 30-45 minute drive from the resort.
CaitlinCC
can't see anything in the waters at this resort, too many waves, good for body surfing
lasttimewithcheapcaribbea
Sousa is the best for snorkeling. Enjoy
Jennygirl
We stayed at the Lifestyle Resort (North) and took an excursion for snorkeling through the dive center there. The trip was for 1/2 the day. We first drove to Sosua (a 20 minute drive) and we launched from a small beautiful resort there. It was my first time snorkeling, but I thought it was amazing. Another woman there said it was much better than her excursion in Mexico. There were at least 30 different types of fish that swarmed to us the minute they saw we carried bread. We were nibbled on too!
btw: We heard great things about the Paradise Island Trip for snorkeling! You might want to look that up!
Take2
I would go on the paradise island trip, try to go on the beach and find a guy named Gus, he'll give you a great deal oppose to the resort. Paradise Island is a tiny island but it is BEAUTIFUL and they'll take you out there on a small yacht and they will provide drinks both alcoholic and non, and snacks such as fruits on the island. They will also provide goggles, and flippers to swim out and snorkel. The reefs are so beautiful and you'll see schools of colorful fish, thousands different species, after which they will take you to get authentic dominican food and take you back to the resort. Worth the trip, do it! Also try the 27 waterfalls! Take a taxi out and pay the falls directly instead of going through people, learn from my mistakes. Have fun and be safe!
My trip was in May 2013
VanC
Does the hotel have a kids pool with a slide (any size slide)?6 answers
5 years, 63 months ago
New Jersey
This resort does have a kids pool, however it does not have a slide. There are no water slides in any of the pools.
CaitlinCC
Yes, they have a sister hotel on the property (Cofresi) that has a kiddie pool with a slide.
Engaged
We stayed at the Tropical Resort and they do NOT have a kids pool with a slide. But, they do have a kids pool, I just didn't see any extra activities there. However, the Confresi Palm Resort, which is adjacent the the Tropical, did have a kids pool with a small slide and a waterfall. It just may not be convenient to haul the kiddies to the next resort if you are staying at the Tropical! Hope this helps!
JustSayin
no slides
CMS1
The hotel has a kids pool but no slide.
CrazyWoman
There is a kids pool but there is no slide at the Lifestyle resort.
adzafic
Airports3 answers
Is pickup service available from Santiago Municipal Airport - Santiago, Dominican Republic (STI).
5 years, 63 months ago
Excited
We do offer private round trip airport transfers from STI to POP. For pricing please call us at 1-800-915-2322.
CaitlinCC
Yes
Dean29
No pick up service. It's a 45 dollar cab ride Only VIP members have free n available shuttle service
Jennygirl
what are the dates available for the 24 dollars per day rate and how may i reserve them3 answers
5 years, 63 months ago
timbr549
This is a per person rate and you should be able to find it with the dates of June/July. The sale is always subject to change based upon availability or end of promotion.
LaurenCC
don't go to this resort, it isn't worth it, even if it was free
lasttimewithcheapcaribbea
Right now it’s April - Dec 23, 2013
You go to the website and book Hotel stay only pick the dates but the max number of nights are 7. If you want to book 14 you will need to book 2 Back to back. If this is the case then book airfare separate and you may have to check out and check back in. You will love this place. Within 2 weeks will be my 3rd trip back to this resort.
INDIANAMM
Is there a round trip shuttle available to and from the airport to the hotel?6 answers
5 years, 62 months ago
Kitty
There are round trip airport transfers available. We offer the transfers through Olympus tours and they are approx $28.00 per person. The resort is about a 30 minute drive from the airport.
KristenCC
Yes, Olympus Tours offers a shuttle to and from the airport. make sure you sign up for it before you get there. that way you dont have to stress about finding a shuttle and paying for it.
Kimberla
Yes, there is a shuttle that picks you up from the airport and takes you to the resort. It's a large bus, comfortable, etc. Run by olympus but purchased through Cheap Carribean.
Ando
Yes, there are several different options. We always go through the travel agent, such as CheapCaribbean or Expedia which adds the cost in. We find it easier than hailing a taxi.
Kentucky5555
Yes, we booked it thru CheapCaribbean. I recommend it as it made the transfers pretty effortless and you wont feel like your being "taken" by a local.
JustSayin
Yes, there is a shuttle that was booked ahead of time through Cheap Carribean. Very simple and they bring you right to the resort that you have booked.
CrazyWoman
What is the drinking age?6 answers
5 years, 62 months ago
D
I didn't see anyone being carded so it probably doesn't matter your age.
lorijo
Drinking age in the Dominican Republic is 18; however, the Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort and Spa has a Youth Travel Policy which states:
Student/Youth Travelers are defined by the resort as any guest under the age of 23 traveling without their legal parent/guardian. Please be advised that Spring Breakers and Student/Youth GROUPS under the age of 23 are not accepted at this resort. This policy applies year round. If you do not adhere to the Student/Youth Policy upon booking, your reservation will be canceled and you will be notified accordingly. Resort may require legal documentation to verify age prior to check-in; if the minimum age is not met and student/youth is not traveling with parent or legal guardian, check-in will be denied and a credit will not be issued.
LaurenCC
they served my 14 and 15 year old daughters rum in there pina colada
even after bartenders were told that they are too young to drink. They still try serving them booze when parents weren't around. Bartenders told the girls that they could drink since Mommy wasn't around
lasttimewithcheapcaribbea
They really don't ID people at all inclusive. Especially at this one I noticed and the liquor here is all watered down anyways .... But typically it's 21 n over
Jennygirl
The legal age for drinking in the Dominican Republic is 18 years old.
forgetmenot
18
jsmith
18
BeigeDre
does this hotel have a shuttle service for the airport? If yes, what is the price?6 answers
5 years, 62 months ago
Illinois
This resort does not offer shuttle service to and from the airport; however, we work with a transfer company and would be able to add this onto you vacation. Prices vary depending on the number of travelers and if you prefer shared versus private transfers.
LaurenCC
28.00 per to & from read my review under the facts
nronm
No you have to book your own. Unless you are a member then they do for free. If you have 3/4 in your party its less expensive to book a r/t privet transfer.
https://dominicanairporttransfers.com/default.aspx
INDIANAMM
Shuttle is only available for VIP members only and it's free. Everyone else they have a taxi service for and it's one flate rate no matter how many people go in the car it's 30.00 from puerto plata airport 45 from Santiago airport
Jennygirl
Shuttle service is provided by Olympus Travel at a cost of @ 28 per person round-trip.
LikeToTravel2
Yes the hotel has a shuttle service to and from the airport. It depends on the package that you want. You will also book your excursions through this company as well. It's called Olympus. I'm very happy that we did the shuttle, it saved us a headache and the company was very organized! =)
Traveler3840
We used the Olympus Shuttle and arranged it through Cheap Caribbean when we made our reservations. It was $28 pp round trip.
Take2
Does this hotel have joint rooms?4 answers
Requesting joint rooms with access, does the hotel provide this?
5 years, 62 months ago
lindsay2344
This resort does not have connecting rooms, however you can request that 2 rooms are next to eachother.
CaitlinCC
no!!! we requested adjoining or at least adjacent rooms and they did not accommodate us. we were in the same buildings, but different floors. they didn't care about us having to be apart from the kids. they said they would definitely be able to move us, but they never did. if you haven't booked it yet, go someplace else. The food is HORRIBLE
Taye
don't know about Tropical, but we were in Cofresi and our rooms were adjoined.
Tinas7801
No they did not have joint rooms where we stayed in Building 4.
ChristinaE
Shuttle4 answers
Will the shuttles take us from the Airport in Santiago to Puerto Plata?
5 years, 62 months ago
Dallas
The resort shuttles will not provide transportation between the airports to the resort. We are able to include transfers in your package and what is available online is from the Puerto Plata Airport. If you are flying into Santiago please call one of our Beach Experts, they can be reached at 1 800 915 2322 and will be able to include this in your reservation.
LaurenCC
You will need a taxi, there are no shuttles from sti airport to puerto plata, the cost is about 120.00 US dollars each way
Simonesmom
It's a 45 dollar cab ride to and from regardless of how many people and only have free shuttle service to VIP members only
Jennygirl
Yes they will, your Cheap Caribbean rep will include the transfers for you in the cost. Very easy pick up and drop off!
ChristinaE
The Thursday night getaway to ocean world?6 answers
Can someone tell me more about the Ocean World getaway on Thursday with Cheap Caribbean? What is the approximate time you go there and come back? What all is included? Thanks!
5 years, 62 months ago
USA
Access to the Thursday Ocean World Party; this special party takes place every Thursday at Ocean World and includes free transportation from and to the hotel, snacks, live band, drinks, free admission to Bravissimo show and free admission to the Casino & Lighthouse Disco (drinks are NOT included). Weather permitting. Day of week of party subject to change.
Arrangements can be made with the front desk upon arrival and they will be able to provide you with more details.
LaurenCC
It was cancelled last week. boo,
HeatherC
If you have booked via CC then this is included. Dinner (buffet) is around 6-7 and then after that is a show. You get food, drinks and show. If you want to stay later hit the casino. All transfer is free. These cost you nothing extra... but do try to attend the Welcome party on Sunday! It runs from 6:30/7:00 till late also.
INDIANAMM
I thought there was suppose to be something at Ocean World also. But on Thursday it was just a show in the VIP section that had food, beverages & a show or 2 from Ocean World. Disappointed me, I thought I was gonna get to go to Ocean World.
cyndiu
Just got back on 5/11 and they told us that the party on Thursday night at Ocean World was moved to their resort. I don't know if this is permanent or not but they don't even pay for a shuttle to go to the casino at Ocean World so maybe there is a problem between the two resorts. However, the party on Thursday that was at the resort itself was outstanding! Music, bubbles, dancing, entertainers, stilt walkers, free casino games, and waiters and waitresses all over the place. Great time!
BONDER
I have been there 2 times first time it was at ocean world and was awesome buffet and show. I just returned from my second visit and it is no longer at ocean world it is at the resort itself it was more like a disco party. but you must go to the Sunday welcome party it is wonderful.
wannabonbeach
were is fishing including in my package3 answers
5 years, 62 months ago
lisa
Fishing is not included as part of the all-inclusive package at this resort. If you had purchased an excursion, then the information should be in your voucher. Please call our Reservations Center at 1 800 915 2322 if you cannot locate this information; one of our Concierge Agents will be able to assist you.
LaurenCC
No, fishing is not included in your package.
NickA
You can purchase this excursion if you like, it's not included.
ChristinaE
email contact??4 answers
Does anyone have a current email for Lifestyle Tropical beach resort? We are going with 14 people and would like to make a few room requests and dinner requests before we get there. Thanks so much!
5 years, 61 months ago
Pittsburgh
The resort's e-mail is accessible via their website (https://www.lhvcresorts.com/). Just click on the 'Contact Us' tab.
LaurenCC
Just got back, had a great time it's best to call for room request, make sure you specify king or double beds. They will make reservations for u for dinner but they can be changed even when they say their booked full.Enjoy!
Simonesmom
For the dinning request they will provide you with two nights reservations at random per room. You have to go to Guest Services to make the arrangements, they are very helpful. You can Google for their email address.
idolopr
Lifestyle had supper reservations already arranged when we got there. We attempted to changed them and our request was denied. We were unable to change restaurant or supper time. We were told they were booked so we just cancelled.
HeatherF
Just call the 1-800 number and anyone can help you. ask for the person's direct extension that you speak with and their email address.
Gibbtrott
Can american electronic devices be charged in the hotel rooms6 answers
Can I caharge my cell phone and laptop computer 120 volts required
5 years, 61 months ago
Frank
Yes, we had 1 plug that was set up for US.
TrixieSousa
Yes you can, they run on 120 with standard plug ins
Nursact
They have ths same voltage as the USA. Same plug outlets!
INDIANAMM
You do not need to bring a converter with you. The same wattage is used and you will be able to charge your electronics in the hotel rooms.
LaurenCC
The outlets looked the same, however we did not tried to recharge anything. Please leave the electronics HOME and enjoy the vacation!!!
Eurovacationer
Not a problem. Charged camera batteries.
abcb88
Why is it $933 each instead of $24 each a night?6 answers
5 years, 61 months ago
Alberta
It may be one of two things.
1. This rate of 24.00 per night each is up to 7 nights max stay.
2. This rate is for Hotel stay only.
If you check airfare and room by them selves you can sometimes save. other wise I have found it just a few bucks less to book together but the rate is only good for max 7 nights.
I love this place and my next trip in a few weeks will be my 3rd time back.
INDIANAMM
If you are searching with airfare, then the rates will appear higher because your flights are included.
LaurenCC
Either the $24/night deal wasn't available for the days you selected, or you possibly didn't select the correct amount of days for the deal (remember to get the deal you have to choose a minimum of four nights and a maximum of seven nights). It's also possible your price included the airfare.
Islandchic
Your packages include flight and hotel with the taxes n fees already added
Jennygirl
That's a deal that is offered for a limited time and you have to make reservations quick, like I did.
idolopr
Flights.
Get your own, it will be cheaper.
Gregc
Are there coffee makers and coffee supplies in the rooms?6 answers
5 years, 61 months ago
jeaningeorgia
yes
Taye
yes both
bowhunter
Coffee makers and supplies are in the room, however we did not used them, because there is fresh coffee all day long in front of the buffet. We used the room only for sleeping at night time. You do not wont to spend any additional time in the room. The nature is beautiful.
Eurovacationer
We were in a regular room and there was none. Not sure if you upgrade to a suite.
abcb88
Yes there are, the coffee is great!
AjlaK
yes there is a coffee maker & supplies, just use the bottled water!
cyndiu
Can I bring my dog?6 answers
I have a small puppy that my husband and I would like to bring with us. He is completely house trained, and we are diligent in cleaning up after him.
5 years, 61 months ago
Sosua
This resort does not allow pets.
CaitlinCC
no dogs.
CatNY727
No pets are allowed at the resorts.
Skyhook
No animals were allowed on premises
Jennygirl
I did not see any animals during our stay...
golfwench
No, I wouldn't. This is not the place for a pet. (... And I love my dog as well and would love to travel with her, but there is no place for a pet.)
ChristinaE
No pets allowed
MarriedAtJollyBeach
How to upgrade wristband color?6 answers
I am a CC customers and coming for my first time in a week, If we get white wristband when we get there, do we get another color wristband once we do the 'time share sales' lecture?
5 years, 61 months ago
California
The time share presentation is not required. Guests who choose to attend this presentation do not receive a wristband for doing so.
BILLCC
When you book through CheapCaribbean.com you get a yellow bracelet. We did not get a different color for talking with them about the time share deal. We did not even take the tour, just sat down and told them no thanks and left. We talked with others who took the tour and they still did not get a different color bracelet, unless you buy the VIP deal which is thousands of dollars. None of our group upgraded.
Ilovemydaddy
The only way I know of changing your wristband color and upgrading your VIP status is to purchase a Lifestyles Holidays Vacation Club Membership. The prices vary and it's a pretty interesting program, not like your typical time share lecture. The minimum down payment is however at least 1500. You'll have a great time even if you don't become a "super gold band VIP"
Hope this helps!
Kydneybean
You only get another wrist band if you buy at the time share lecture. You get a bottle of rum for going and expect it to last 3 hours not 45 minutes like they say, because you get a long tour of all the area and get to see units, beaches, restaurants ect. Then you get the sales pitch. But we just said no and it was not too bad.
piedra
no you have to join the time share and pay to upgrade then you get different wrist band
BLH27
No, you only get one wristband for your stay (currently the color is yellow). After the time share offer, they normally give you a bottle of rum.
Islandchic
Power Outlets6 answers
Are the power outlets North American friendly, including the 3rd prong?
5 years, 61 months ago
Lynn
Plenty of friendly outlets.
Bang
yes they are.
CatNY727
Yes they are!!
Bazz
The outlets at the resort are compatible for U.S. electronics.
MariaCC
The power outlets are North American Friendly including the third prong.
Nicholereo333
the resort has multiple hotels but at the tropical, not an upgraded room, they had 3 prong outlets which are standard in the u.s.a.
jeffz
How do I make dinner reservations?6 answers
4 years, 60 months ago
Jo
Dinner reservations can be made directly with the resort during your stay.
MariaCC
They assign them for you. One of our two was a 9:00pm reservation! You are allowed to attempt to change your reservation only the morning of, between 9 - 10am. We had an early excursion the morning of one of our assigned resv's so we had to give that one up (we left before 9am so couldn't attempt to change and it was an early dinner reservation, we didn't even get back in time to make it). The next night we tried to change the reservation but were denied. Good luck.
EpiK
It is very difficult to get dinner reservations. If you stay over 4 nights you are given 2 on arrival. We did not want to use our Indian Restaurant, but were unable to ever change them. Even though we were at the office at 8am or 8;30 we were never able to get any other reservation.
We used the Indian restaurant and it was surprisingly good.
jeaningeorgia
In my case I was given a ONE dinner reservation to a restaurant that they chose for me at the time of check in. We inquired on how to get an extra reservation or change the one that was given to us and we were told we had to go to guest services between 9 and 10am to be added to a waiting list and we'd be notified if anything became available, another guest mentioned that they had previously tried that and nothing had become available so we just dined at the buffet the other 3 nights that we were there.
rockingrox
You are given 2 reservations when you arrive. Basically show up to the restaurant of your choice at the time of your choice with a few dollars and you will be seated!
Spopeye
Upon arrival the front desk will notify you that they've already scheduled 2 dinner reservations for you. If you want to change the location/time, or go to any other places you have to go back to the hotel services office & request that they change it or see if there's any other reservations available on the day of.
RHEA
Are the rooms the same ones as advertised in the photos?6 answers
We booked a superior room. Does it actually look like the picture with the 4 poster bed?
4 years, 60 months ago
Vermont
It absolutely does. Rooms are spotless, grounds are spotless, service is awesome. Bring lots of $1 bills. Staff will stock your room fridge with beer, soda and water. Tip $1 at the bar every 2-3 rounds. The nightclub says cash bar but that is incorrect, drinks are all inclusive. Take advantage of the Thursday night FOAM party and the Sunday night Welcome party. We just booked our 3rd trip back.
lriz
Yes, there is actually a 4 poster bed. We just got back from Lifestyles and it was pretty close to the picture shown. The smaller furniture varies, but we had the same bed shown in the picture.
Islandchic
CheapCaribbean.com cannot guarantee the accuracy of room photos posted on the site, as these images are supplied by the resorts.
BILLCC
yes, that is exactly what our room looked like.
Allie2013
The room I got didn't look anything like the photos I saw, however you did book a superior room so you might get lucky.
Geovanna
Yes, it is the same room, But be advised the air conditing does not work.
NicoleLJ
During check in, it says the hotel requires a credit card or deposit for incidental charges, will a debit/bank card do?6 answers
I often use my debit card/bank card as a credit card in all cases that I charge. There is even a $500 credit loan on it. IF the bank card cannot be used, how much would a deposit be?
4 years, 60 months ago
New York
We booked through Cheap Caribbean and we were not required to leave a credit card at check in. My friend did try to get money from the ATM with her bank card and it did not work, so maybe some debit cards do not work there.
Allie2013
Please contact the hotel directly for the most up-to-date information. You may reach them via their online contact form found here: https://www.lhvcresorts.com/contact-us/
BILLCC
we were never asked for any credit card upon check in.
thanks
They didn't ask me for a card at all, but visa and master card is used everywhere over there so I am sure you will be fine.
Geovanna
We just left this resort on May 11th and they never asked us for a credit card or deposit. The trip was paid in full ahead of time to Cheap Caribbean and I even asked at check in about the credit card and they said "No--its not required".
BONDER
They did not require me to give one. I am not sure if the used the one i used. To book the trip without my knowledge. They did take copies of all of our passports upon check in.
TriciaBoston
any parking fees?6 answers
4 years, 60 months ago
milton
Because we don't do car rentals, it is hard for us to say whether or not they have a parking fee. They do have the ability to rent cars at the resort, but there is no information as far as parking fees go. If you would like to send an email directly to the resort, their email is lifestylehvc@bellsouth.net They may be able to answer that question better than we can. Thank you!
RobinCC
We didn't have a car so don't know the answer.
pinkey12
If i am not mistaken there are no Parking Fees if you are a guest.
EdwinD
Free parking
Jennygirl
No parking fees although there is not extensive parking space available they will find you a space. I think they expect most travelers to come in taxi or bus or get VIP pickup.
forgetmenot
NO
idolopr
I didn't rent a vehicle, didn't hear of anyone say a thing about car rentals or fees, I'd check with the hotel.
ChristinaE
Is there a dress code for the restaurants?6 answers
4 years, 60 months ago
Michelle/PA
They ask that the men where long pants but I saw many people getting by without doing so.
worley
Below is a list of restaurants at Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort and Spa. Many of the dress code requirements say "smart casual". That can vary in meaning from resort to resort. If you would like to go to the following link,
https://www.lhvcresorts.com/contact-us/ and fill in the contact information and ask that question, you will be able to get a better idea about what should be worn. Thank you!
DINING
This hotel includes unlimited food and drinks, but some dining restrictions may apply. Please check with the front desk for details.
Indochine
Type: Asian
Hours: Dinner - daily, 6pm-10pm; Snacks - daily, 11pm-5am
Description: Asian fusion restaurant. Reservations are required.
Dress code: Smart casual.
The Blue Lagoon
Type: Seafood
Hours: Daily, 6pm-10pm
Description: Serving seafood and grill specialties on the beach. Reservations are required.
Dress code: Smart casual.
Casablanca Buffet Restaurant
Type: International
Hours: Breakfast - daily, 7am-10am; Lunch - daily, 12:30pm-3pm; Dinner - daily, 6:30pm-10pm
Description: Buffet restaurant, serving international cuisine and open for full American buffet breakfasts, a lunch buffet and theme-night buffet dinners.
Bellini Pizza and Pasta at Crown Residences and Suites
Type: Italian
Hours: Lunch, daily, 12:30pm-3pm; Dinner - daily, 6pm-10pm
Description:Large selection of pastas and Italian specialties, as well as light lunches and snacks. Dinner reservations are required.
Dress code: Smart casual.
Trapiche Paradise at Royal Suites
Type: Tex-Mex
Hours: Dinner, daily, 7pm-10pm
Description: Serving Mexican cuisine at Royal Suites. Reservations are required for dinner.
Dress code: Smart casual.
El Piln at Cofresi Palm Beach
Type: Dominican
Hours: Breakfast - daily, 7am-10am; Lunch - daily, 12:30pm-3pm; Dinner - daily, 6:30pm-10pm
Description: Serving authentic Dominican specialties near the beach. Reservations are required.
Moomtaz at Cofresi Palm Beach
Type: Indian
Hours: Daily, 6pm-10pm
Description: Offering delicious Indian cuisine. Reservations are required.
The Pearl at Cofresi Palm Beach
Type: International
Hours: Breakfast - daily, 7am-10am; Lunch - daily, 12:30pm-3pm; Dinner - daily, 6:30pm-10pm
Description: International buffet.
Rodizio at Cofresi Palm Beach
Type: Brazilian
Hours: Daily, 6pm-10pm
Description: Brazilian churrascaria. Reservations are required.
Zun at VIP Beach
Type: Sushi Bar
Hours: Daily, 10am-10pm
Description: Serving fresh, delicious sushi, Zen is located on the VIP Beach and is open to clients of CheapCaribbean.com.
A La Carte Dining
A la carte dining is offered at seven specialty restaurants, which all require reservations. During periods of high occupancy, it may not be possible to secure reservations for all nights of the stay. Certain dishes may require an additional supplement. NOTE: Not all restaurants and bars are located on-site; some restaurants are located in other parts of the Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Club complex and are accessible on foot or by complimentary shuttle.
A La Carte Reservation Guarantee
Guests staying a minimum of 4 nights will receive 2 guaranteed a la carte restaurant reservations in their check-in envelope, good for future nights. Guests should check with guest services daily to see if additional restaurant reservations have opened up in the evening.
All hours are subject to change.
RobinCC
It does state a dress code, no shorts or sandals. Men in pants and shoes. But it depends on the restaurant. For instance the Mexican and Dominican restaurants that we went to seem to allow more casual attire but the Brazillian definitely requires proper attire.
NicoleLJ
The reservation slips state that Men must wear pants and dress shirts. We went to the Mexican, Asian, and Brazilian and only the Brazilian enforced the dress code. There were people with shorts and Hockey Jerseys at the Mexican and Asian, but watched the manager kick out a guy that was wearing shorts when we were at the Brazilian.
Skyhook
The only code for the buffet was no bathing suits and you had to have some sort of shoes on.
For dinner reservations it stated that pants were required but they did not enforce that rule as I only brought shorts with me on vacation.
Spike6
For the a la cart restaurants they ask that men wear pants but I didn't see them refuse entrance as some men were wearing shorts
TriciaBoston
I want to know if this hotel offer Internet Services6 answers
I am planning my vacation for July 2013 but I want to know if this hotel has Internet Services.
4 years, 58 months ago
North Carolina
Internet access is included as an amenity at the resort for an additional charge.
MariaCC
WIFI is free in the Tropical foyer and the vip beach.
Other places you pay.
Gregc
You can purchase internet usage by the minute, hours, days, or a week
LadyJJ
Yes. If you sit on a bench by the VIP beach you have access to through cheap Caribbean, you can hop on the free VIP beach Wi-fi. Otherwise you have to go to the computer/business lab, which is small and has expensive plans. No internet in the rooms.
GMac
Wifi is available on the beach area. Not in the room
Dave138
You have to purchase wifi. There is a wifi store near the gift shops. The prices vary, but I think we paid $25-30 for 25 hours of wifi. We didn't even need that much, but it was useful during the stay.
Woowoo
How much is the whole package flying out of San Francisco?2 answers
4 years, 58 months ago
Angel
Please contact one of our beach experts at 1-800-915-2322 for information regarding pricing.
BILLCC
please don't book this vacation the resort is unsanitary and a huge time share scam! Please just read the review I wrote it lists everything you need to know and its titled "scam". Safe your money and go to a sandals! There are bed bugs everywhere and the light in our room was blinking and maintenance wouldn't help! We literally felt helpless and stuck. From dirty diapers in the pool to the nasty bug ridden food and people getting deathly ill...don't come here!
scammed
Angel, just call your Cheap Caribbean representative and ask! They are very knowledgeable and can answer your questions!
ChristinaE
Can anyone tell me the weather here in July.4 answers
4 years, 58 months ago
Nikki519
The average temperatures during July are usually 80s during the day and 70s at night.
CoryCC
Perfect weather for vacation.
Bardino
80-90's, Always windy and warm! Hot sands and nice pool with 3 nice jacuzzi's! Nice beach, some rocks but sea urchin's to watch out for! Wear water shoes for sure!
ChristinaE
In July, the weather in Puerto Plata is Super HOT and it is also the rainy season.
gladadou
If I book just hotel accommodations through Cheap Caribbean is the price still all inclusive?6 answers
4 years, 58 months ago
PA
Yes, purchasing a land-only reservation at an all-inclusive resort would still offer all of the resort amenities as a vacation package.
CoryCC
yes.
Bardino
I don't see why not....but I'd call, they might be able to get a better deal for you when you do the entire package through Cheap Caribbean!
ChristinaE
YES it is.
gladadou
Yes it is but I would advise that you book your airfare and round trip hotel and airport transfers. It's more expensive to book your own airfare.
Gibbtrott
Yes. All of your food and alcohol are included. They will pitch you for timeshare, but if your polite and tell them no, you still are treated very well. The food is not the best, but check with the front office daily for reservations. You get two reservations upon arrival.
MarkAce
How is the night life?6 answers
4 years, 58 months ago
NY
There are 4 bars and lounges, including the discotheque. Cheap Caribbean clients will also have access to the Thursday night Bravissimo Show at Ocean World and there is scheduled entertainment throughout the week.
CoryCC
There is a show every night, then the night club is always there. If you like to dance, the club is always open at night.
Bardino
At Lifestyle or Confressi beach there are multiple bars and events to keep you busy everynight, some are a little tacky but then it's what you make of it. They have a VIP party which is great, food, music, light and video show with dancing and fireworks. They do stage shows almost nightly with different themes and some small local music at some of the bars in different areas of the resort.
Funtraveler
Not alot to do...there is one restaurant that serves meals from 11pm-3am. other than that, there are a few shows available to see on certain nights, the schedules are posted. It's not Vegas though!
ChristinaE
Dead
Zgirl
Resort is fairly quiet after 11pm. There is a disco on the Cofresi side, but we never made it there. I asked someone who worked there if it was any good, and he seemed less than enthusiastic.
Frances102
Define Resort Casual attire for men please. Specifically.6 answers
4 years, 58 months ago
Pittsburgh PA
beach attire is good for the pools, beach and bar areas. the buffet does not want anyone wearing bathing suits to attend. the restaurants: states casual attire but must be long pants for men. my boyfriend wore his business clothes, but we saw many people wearing jean pants and nice dressy shirts, or collared shirts. no flip flops in the restaurant
FunInTheSun13
Casual with short and polo shirt is the best attire. That is because the restaurants that I attended did not have air conditions. There were only fans.
Bardino
You can wear whatever you want, unless you are dining in one of the restaurants you need a reservation for (not the buffets). Men must wear long pants in those, no exceptions. They will make you go buy a pair at the gift shop.
jsmith
Dry and clean board or walking shorts with a golf shirt or Polo with a collar, try to avoid cutoffs and tee's.
Funtraveler
Resort casual for men would be long pants and a collared shirt (no t-shirts).
CoryCC
Only restrictions that were noted for men at the resort were:
- Long pants (could be jeans, linen, khakis and my travel partner wore sweats one night) are required in the restaurants that required a reservation. The wait staff even gave my travel partner some long pants to wear while in the restaurant one night. So it was not a huge inconvenience.
- One restaurant mentioned that the men needed a sleeve on the shirt (like a short sleeved shirt) as opposed to a tank top or cut off shirt. But once again, they still accommodated us and we were not inconvenienced or disallowed entry.
MissB716
Is there anyway to rent scooters or any other vehicles in order to drive ourselved to the 27 waterfalls or anywhere else like that?6 answers
4 years, 58 months ago
PA
The best way is to walk to the waterfalls. There is a lot of hills and rocky-slippery hill. However, it is beautiful and nice experience. I don't recommend renting scooters for it. The resort is the best way to get there.
Bardino
We met some people who got a taxi ride there and got in for only $10 each. Not sure what they paid for a taxi but you can barter with them on the price. We would have done this is we had known because we only bartered them down to $60 each. Ask around about the water level, however, because it was so low when we went that we only got to jump twice. Total rip off.
jsmith
don't think you are going outside of the resort - you will see from the airport to the resort that no one is safe out side of resort - even the taxie will lock doors and not stop at red lights to try and keep you safe going through town to and from the resort - do your home work - look up the city and look at the pics not safe
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
I just returned 7/8/2013 because i went again this year and rented a car for the week from Thrifty through travelocity with their insurance. Note driving in the D.R. is an adventure so may not be for everyone but if you are experienced in foreign travel and can read a map it can be done. The cost is cheaper than cab fare to places like Sosoua beach, or Caberette where you can see a lot of kite surfers and have a nice beachside lunch.
Funtraveler
These services may be available, but unfortunately, are not offered through any of our partner vendors.
CoryCC
Yes! You can book a scooter or a vehicle to go off the Resort. Would I want to?...Ummm, NO! You think driving in PA or NYC is difficult? Wait until you see how they drive in the Caribbean!!
ChristinaE
how much they charge for a kids 3 years and 5 years old?2 answers
4 years, 58 months ago
lashula
For pricing inquires, please call our office at #800-915-2322 to speak with an agent in our New Reservations Department. Our office is open daily from 5am-3am EST and there is no additional charge for agent assistance via telephone.
MariaCC
Free
LifeneedsaVacation
What does the All-INCLUSIVE include? How many restaurants/meals included? Alcoholic beverages included?6 answers
4 years, 58 months ago
Ellie
The following is from our website. Dining restrictions may apply and the resort may change the hours for restaurants at their discretion.
This hotel is All-Inclusive.
Features include:
•Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks
•Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
•Privileged use of all restaurants, bars and facilities at Lifestyle Crown Residence Suites and Cofresi Palm
•Shuttle service around the resort
•24-hour on site Medical Services
DINING
This hotel includes unlimited food and drinks, but some dining restrictions may apply. Please check with the front desk for details.
Indochine
Type: Asian
Hours: Dinner - daily, 6pm-10pm; Snacks - daily, 11pm-5am
Description: Asian fusion restaurant. Reservations are required.
Dress code: Smart casual.
The Blue Lagoon
Type: Seafood
Hours: Daily, 6pm-10pm
Description: Serving seafood and grill specialties on the beach. Reservations are required.
Dress code: Smart casual.
Casablanca Buffet Restaurant
Type: International
Hours: Breakfast - daily, 7am-10am; Lunch - daily, 12:30pm-3pm; Dinner - daily, 6:30pm-10pm
Description: Buffet restaurant, serving international cuisine and open for full American buffet breakfasts, a lunch buffet and theme-night buffet dinners.
Bellini Pizza and Pasta at Crown Residences and Suites
Type: Italian
Hours: Lunch, daily, 12:30pm-3pm; Dinner - daily, 6pm-10pm
Description: Large selection of pastas and Italian specialties, as well as light lunches and snacks. Dinner reservations are required.
Dress code: Smart casual.
Trapiche Paradise at Royal Suites
Type: Tex-Mex
Hours: Dinner, daily, 7pm-10pm
Description: Serving Mexican cuisine at Royal Suites. Reservations are required for dinner.
Dress code: Smart casual.
El Piln at Cofresi Palm Beach
Type: Dominican
Hours: Breakfast - daily, 7am-10am; Lunch - daily, 12:30pm-3pm; Dinner - daily, 6:30pm-10pm
Description: Serving authentic Dominican specialties near the beach. Reservations are required.
Moomtaz at Cofresi Palm Beach
Type: Indian
Hours: Daily, 6pm-10pm
Description: Offering delicious Indian cuisine. Reservations are required.
The Pearl at Cofresi Palm Beach
Type: International
Hours: Breakfast - daily, 7am-10am; Lunch - daily, 12:30pm-3pm; Dinner - daily, 6:30pm-10pm
Description: International buffet.
Rodizio at Cofresi Palm Beach
Type: Brazilian
Hours: Daily, 6pm-10pm
Description: Brazilian churrascaria. Reservations are required.
Zun at VIP Beach
Type: Sushi Bar
Hours: Daily, 10am-10pm
Description: Serving fresh, delicious sushi, Zen is located on the VIP Beach and is open to clients of CheapCaribbean.com.
A La Carte Dining
A la carte dining is offered at seven specialty restaurants, which all require reservations. During periods of high occupancy, it may not be possible to secure reservations for all nights of the stay. Certain dishes may require an additional supplement. NOTE: Not all restaurants and bars are located on-site; some restaurants are located in other parts of the Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Club complex and are accessible on foot or by complimentary shuttle.
A La Carte Reservation Guarantee
Guests staying a minimum of 4 nights will receive 2 guaranteed a la carte restaurant reservations in their check-in envelope, good for future nights. Guests should check with guest services daily to see if additional restaurant reservations have opened up in the evening.
All hours are subject to change.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BARS/NIGHTLIFE
Las Canas
Las Canas is the hotel's swim-up pool bar.
Tortuga
Tortuga is an ocean-side bar.
La Cayena
La Cayena is the hotel's lobby bar, and it's open late.
Beach Club Bar
On the beach and offers snacks along with exotic drinks and fruit juices all day and night. Open 24 hours.
RobinCC
ALL Inclusive includes all your meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
There's multiple restaurants including the main buffet. With dinner, you would have to make reservations to dine in the restaurants. They are only open for dinner. Buffets are open all day. Unlimited alcohol, usually they're not top shelf but the cheap generic brands. If you have children, there's non alcohol beverages, unlimited.
Lovable800
All alcoholic drinks are included. There are several restaurants that are open to all guests. Some restaurants require a reservation in the evening but there is always a buffet option that does not require reservations.
MissB716
Each resort will have a description of the number of restaurants it has. All-Inclusive means your meals and alcohol is included, there is no extra hidden fees, unless you book an excursion and it will tell you the cost of meals off the Resort.
ChristinaE
Only one restaurant is guaranteed, causing you to request if there are cancellations in order to eat at the others (there weren't on any of the other days I was there). The alcohol was included but it was mostly bottom shelf stuff, and the mixed drinks had an after-taste that upset my stomach (a common complaint among the other guests I spoke to) so I mostly requested top-shelf rum with coffee or cola.
BooBerry
We booked via CheapCaribbean and all meals, and drinks were included. Alcoholic beverages all day and all night :-)
TeeZay
Can I get a deal to lifestyle resort from JFK to puerto plata but staying and traveling alone?4 answers
4 years, 58 months ago
United States
Resorts base their prices on double occupancy. You can call our sales department to ask them if a deal can be done for this resort, single occupancy, but it will not be as good as the deal for two people. You can reach our sales department at 800-915-2322. Thank you.
RobinCC
yes you can, pricing for one occupant in an all inclusive room is much more expensive than if you room with 2 ppl
Lovable800
As I recall, the vacation pricing is based on double occupancy. We flew out of Indianapolis to Miami, then on to Puerto Plata, nice flight (not many turbulents), through American/American Eagle. Cramped seating tho.
ChristinaE
yes
hillhous
Is the beach shallow or deep for swimming?6 answers
4 years, 57 months ago
nyc elena
For more specific information, you can contact the resort at:
www.lifestylehaciendaresorts.com
RobinCC
It's fine just like any other beach, depends how far you go in.
Hotprofessor
None of the swimming pools are deeper than 6ft. There are several shallow pools for children. The beach is beautiful and we swam there several times. It slopes off pretty quickly and about 15 ft. from shore you will be in water up to your neck. There are large rocks which makes walking difficult sometimes-but just be careful or wear water shoes so you don't scrape your feet.
atrantham
The beach is the Atlantic Ocean so it starts out shallow and can get very deep.
MissB716
The beach has an incline so be careful as you enter the water. What I found dangerous was the rocks inside the water that if you are not careful you could hurt your toes or trip over. This is the regular beach not the VIP beach at the resort.
pickaboo
The beach is deep!
TeeZay
how is the shoreline6 answers
How is the beach and swimming? Is it rocky?
4 years, 57 months ago
beachlover
There is a beach at the resort.
CoryCC
No, it is not rocky. Very white sand.
Gesbaez
The shoreline is kept very clean. My son did step on a sea urchin and required the spikes be pulled out. We recommend that you wear water shoes to avoid ruining your vacation as this happened on our first day in the water. The water was warm and lovely and you could walk out pretty far, the water was very clear as well!
ChristinaE
it is rocky but if you go to the Confresi side it is better not as rocky
wannabonbeach
great beach and water and not rocky. been going to the beach at cofresi since 1990.
trickster
Great shore line not a lot of sand though.
TeeZay
IF I travel alone can a Dominican republic resident visit me? If so, what is the fee per day for them visiting me on an all inclusive package.6 answers
4 years, 57 months ago
tamtam
Please contact one of our Beach Experts, and we will be able to price out the different options for you.
KristenCC
I dont believe so. There are guards at the entrance to the Resort and if you do not have the wristband that identifies you as a guest, you cannot enter. We came and went by transportation arranged by the resort, so we were never stopped.
ChristinaE
I paid $38 dollars per night with a 4 night minimum stay. I would have your Dominican friend pay the $155, and have them stay with you. All the food and liquor is included. I'm sure if you were eating out 3 times a day it would be way more than $40. They will not be allowed in the resort at all unless they are booked there. A bracelet is required
eppam
Im sure he can visit but they will make you pay. Every person MUST wear a bracelet. Im not sure of the fee tho
down2u
From my last experience, a Dominican will cost you an extra $40/night. i fould out the hard way when i got to the resort and Dominicans can not be a part of any special deal.
Eman06
I traveled with a Dominican and was charged $4600.00 pesos for the both of us for one extra day. It was worth it because that includes 3 meals a day, drinks and snacks.
Pincho
Is this resort handicapped accessible6 answers
4 years, 56 months ago
lin
For the most up to date information regarding handicapped accessibility please contact the resort directly. They may recommend a building or floor that would best accomodate you.
AlixCC
Yes
Vikkie
YES I seen ramps all over the resort
down2u
yes!
TeeZay
Yes
Zgirl
No. There were only 2 wheelchairs in the whole resort. Transportation was readily available. We were traveling with a handicapped friend and it was very difficult for her. There were so many steps and few ramps. You definitely need to bring your own accessories.
Ybriteaz
What exactly is ocean world?6 answers
4 years, 56 months ago
MD
For further information regarding Ocean World in Puerto Plata, please visit their direct website - https://www.oceanworld.net/.
MariaCC
Right to the far left....
Vikkie
It's like Seaworld. If you get free tickets, its definitely worth going.
Janine
We didn't go there, but it is very nearby. It looks like a huge water park, but I don't know if it's more than that.
Hoco
It's a water park where you can swim with dolphins and other sea creatures. There is a casino onsite also. If you ask me it's a waste of money they wanted like $200.00 per person for the day..
down2u
Ocean world is a part of the resort where you can see various shows, go snorkeling etc.
TeeZay
This is a small water park near the Lifestyle Resort. There are interactions with dolphins and sharks as well as a small bird sanctuary. A couple of shows are available as well. The water slide was not operating when we were there. We visited, but did not pay to o any of the extra activities.
Ybriteaz
What is Ocean World?4 answers
4 years, 55 months ago
jack
Ocean World is frequently compared to Sea World- It's one of the coolest adventures in the Caribbean: Ocean World Park, where the sea is at your fingertips. Spend priceless hours of family time interacting with playful dolphins, clowning around with sea lions or swimming face to face with tigers. Hold hands with your sweetheart and let your flippers do the work, as you snorkel through a brilliant underwater world or take a swim on the wild side with stingrays.
AlixCC
Ocean World is a very small sea park. You can swim with dolphins, but have been told by other guests the experience is a bit of a joke. They were very disappointed in their trip to Ocean World.
Corvette
It's like a low-budget Sea World. Too expensive it seems.
ChadR
It's a poor man's Sea World. Some shows and you can swim with dolphins, for a price.
Colorado2013
I dont know
hillhous
How much is the Wireless Internet Service???7 answers
4 years, 55 months ago
Brooke Lee
Upon calling the resort, we were advised that the Wireless Internet service is $25 for 25 hours and $60 for 7 days per device. Please keep in mind that pricing is always subject to change.
MariaCC
Free
kathyra00
$25 for 6 days
or it's free down at the beach
Anhonestopinion
It's $4 for 15 minutes and $7 for 30 minutes, if you use their computer.
Steffie16
I think it was $60 for 5 days. I didn't get it. There is free wifi available only at the VIP beach.
ChadR
$60 for the week for wireless anywhere on the grounds. There is free wireless available only at the VIP beach
Colorado2013
$25 for about 8 hours (which is plenty). It doesn't work overly well in the room but it works great out by the pool bar. The free wifi at the VIP beach works amazing and is free.
Gibbtrott
Is there a separate beach for NON VIP guests? If so, is it nice?6 answers
4 years, 55 months ago
wisconsin
There is a public beach just off the resort's property from the VIP beaches.
MariaCC
The beach is the same for VIP and NON VIP, the only diference is that VIP have to make reservations for chairs and beds. I was VIP and I only used the NON VIP beach. I did not like the color of the water of the beach.
kathyra00
No, there is not a NON VIP beach. Everyone is given a VIP bracelet when they check-in. There is no beach access if you are not wearing a VIP bracelet. You are given respect according to what color bracelet you wear.
Corvette
The beach is WONDERFUL! It slopes out very gradually, is roped off for safety, and the water is unusually salty, so carries your weight very well. The staff keep the beach pristine--every morning, seaweed and other refuse is raked together and removed.
For snorkeling, we highly recommend finding the dive center and taking their snorkel trip to Sosua beach--the fish and coral there were wonderful.
Introvert
There is a beach called "VIP Beach" that everyone who books through CheapCaribbean.com has access to. It's beautiful! There are other beaches (such as Serenity) that are truly VIP only. So...yes, there is a beach that everyone has access to, and it's nice. I've attached a few pictures!
Steffie16
Yes, there is a separate beach and yes it was very nice. Staff brought drinks to you or you could go to the bar and get your own.
Lorda97838
how much is scuba diving extra ?4 answers
4 years, 54 months ago
rudi
It can depend what kind of scuba excursion you take there are several you can book with CheapCaribbean.com ahead of time and then you can also book at the resort when you get there but prices can vary.
LizCC
I just returned. 3 of us went diving and it was the worst dive any of us every had and we are all seasoned divers. Cost was $140 and I wouldn't do it again. It was a waste of $140 and a waste of most of a day. Cloudy water, little vegetation, lots of junk fish if you chum them with bread, very rough water.
Colorado2013
I did not scuba diving
hillhous
I paid $100 for a two tank dive. December is pretty ruff with strong currents. The PADI shop at the resort is who I booked through using John Wayne from the lobby. Its about an hour and 15 min ride from the resort.
MarkAce
certified diver - two 40 min dives dives = $120
non-certified resort diver - two 40 min dives = $150
lilrubberducky
LGBT6 answers
Is your resort gay friendly?
4 years, 54 months ago
California
This resort is not on our LGBT vacations list. Please contact the resort for more information or to see the list go the quick search area on the homepage and search by interests.
LizCC
I am not LGBT, but I met some couples that were. In my opinion there were not issues with gay couples on the resort. Go and have a great time!!
AWatson
I would say yes
Anhonestopinion
We did see quite a few Male and Female gay couples and looked as if they were enjoying themselves.
PeLaNYC
We were there as a gay couple--(2 women in our 50s). No one gave us any problems or attitude--the staff was outstanding. Of course, we are not "flamingly" out, but then we just aren't into public necking--LOL!
Introvert
I dont know about the gay friendly, but i meet some nice poeple who were gay at the resort
hillhous
Fishing from Kayak3 answers
Is fishing from a Kayak permitted if bring travel rod? Would it even be worthwhile?
4 years, 54 months ago
Bobalou13
We do suggest contacting the resort directly as they may be a time limit on the Kayak use. There are fishing excursions which can be purchased at a reasonable price.
MariaCC
my boyfriend always brings his, just in case.
MARIALUCI
no
hillhous
Yes, very much yes
MarkAce
Do you have to purchase the transportation package or is other free transportation provided?6 answers
4 years, 54 months ago
Puerta Plata
The resort does not offer complimentary airport transfers as it would be an additional cost. You are able to purchase the roundtrip airport transfer service with your CheapCaribbean.com vacation package or take a taxi upon arrival in Puerto Plata.
MariaCC
it is cheaaper to get the round trip tranportation thru cheap carr. when booking
MARIALUCI
You should purchase your round trip transportation when you book your trip there is no free transportation
sandinmyshoes
There is no free transportation available from the airport to the resort. You can choose to get your own taxi or bus service when you arrive at the airport, but it would probably be no less expensive and really more of a hassle.
GAtrekker
There is no free transportation so do it before or hire a taxi to bring you to the resort
FunNsun
I purchase the transportation package
hillhous
hotel2 answers
where is the $30 per night you advertize?
4 years, 53 months ago
gerald
For pricing and availability, please call #1-800-915-2322 to speak with one of our Beach Experts. Our offices are open daily from 5am-3am EST and there is no additional charge for agent assistance via telephone.
MariaCC
You have to catch this deal, it is usually something like "24 hour sale" and it happens every couple of months.
Btw, $30/night - is for TWO people, which is kind of cool.
Kipelli
Does the Student/Youth Policy mean that everybody in your party must be over 23 or just whoever is booking the room?2 answers
For booking in March
4 years, 53 months ago
khum
This resort does have a Student/Youth Policy. Student/Youth Travelers are defined by the resort as any guest under the age of 18 traveling without their legal parent/guardian. During the months of March and April, the minimum age to check in will be 23. Please be advised that Spring Breakers and Student/Youth GROUPS under the age of 18 (and age 23 during the months of March and April) are not accepted at this resort. This policy applies year round. If you do not adhere to the Student/Youth Policy upon booking, your reservation will be canceled and you will be notified accordingly. Resort may require legal documentation to verify age prior to check-in; if the minimum age is not met and student/youth is not traveling with parent or legal guardian, check-in will be denied and a credit will not be issued.
MariaCC
Just booking. There are babies to adults
Roblaw
This is NOT a Spring Break (highschool/college) type of resort. The Security is on top of their game. They consider this a Family Friendly resort. This is the minimum age for check in/reservation holders. For legal drinking agecheck icap.org
MarriedAtJollyBeach
Do children under 2 stay free?2 answers
We
4 years, 53 months ago
caribbean2014
The resort has special offers which vary. For information on current pricing please contact the beach experts at 1-800-915-2322.
LisaCC
yes, our 2 year old was free
3nanos
What is the cost for a transfer from the airport to the hotel and then back to the airport?5 answers
4 years, 52 months ago
Pat
There are private round trip transfers offered on our site for $56.25 per person and shared round trip transfers for $28.00 however prices are subject to change.
LizCC
$28 per person for round trip on Amstar. There may be a discount for booking the whole mini-van.
girafa
$28.00 per person arranged through Cheap Caribbean
Timateo
The cheapcaribbean package included roundtrip transportation to and from the airport. I would make sure to have tip money though. Also make sure you print out your vouchers before you leave for your trip. You will need those for the transportation and hotel check-in.
BeigeDre
We paid $56 from Puerto Plata to the hotel with AmGen/Cheap Caribbean.
If you fly into Santiago it's an hour and a half ride (even though they will tell you its 24 miles). You would need to book through Olympus Tours. Cost was $230 for up to 5 people from STI to resort. Beautiful drive though up and over the mountain. Quite nice.
Bordumsetzin
If we rent a car, is there free parking at the hotel?3 answers
4 years, 52 months ago
Christy D
Parking is available at this resort, however the price is always subject to change. Please contact Lifestyles for the most up to date rates.
BethCC
DO NOT rent a car. Driving in the DR is insane - highest vehicle mortality rate in the entire world. Not a good place to test your driving skills.
deeroq
We rented our car. Actually drove from Punta Cana. DON'T DRIVE THROUGH SANTA DOMINGO AND SANTIAGO!!! It was a traffic nightmare that even Freedie Krugar wouldn't enjoy. If you are coming from the southeast side of the island, come up hwy 7 (toll road) to hwy 5. It is a little farther, but faster and much, much safer.
Once we got to Lifestyle Tropical Resort, the parking was free and only a short walking distance from our room.
Duckbill912
2 Bedroom Suites?3 answers
Some other travel sites advertise two bedroom suites for this resort, but says the max is 3 adults. We're going with another couple, and it would be nice to have a suite together with two separate bedrooms and two baths. Do they really have these available, and if so, is there a way to pay for 4 adults in one room?
4 years, 52 months ago
Cincinnati OH US
CheapCaribbean.com does not offer 2 bedroom suites at this resort.
For more information please contact the beach experts at 800-915-2322.
LisaCC
They have 2 bedroom suites and villias.
Timateo
We tried this. Specialty "suits" such as Presidentials/Timeshares have to be made directly with the hotel.
MarriedAtJollyBeach
go to homeaway.com, or VRBO.com, and you can book this resort. members of the vacation club advertise their properties on these sites. you can get a two bedroom suite, or a villa
daddysbunky
Resort5 answers
My husband and I will be traveling to this resort at the end of this month. At that point, I will be 6 months pregnant. Does anyone know if the salad and fruit is safe to eat at the resort? Any concerns for a pregnant girl? And, does anyone know if they offer prenatal massage and how I would go about making an appointment if they do?
4 years, 52 months ago
Christy D
Please contact your personal doctor for information on traveling while pregnant.
LisaCC
Fruits should be fine to eat, they are peeled. I would steer clear of the lettuce and raw veggies just to be safe, you can make up for loss of salads when you get back home. You may know this already but make sure to not drink the tap water or brush your teeth with it. Use bottled water. There is a spa on site, but I'm not sure if they offer prenatal massage. You can go to the spa to ask- it's close to the ping pong tables (you will get a map of the resort when you check in). The spa staff also does come around in the afternoons offering massages with a list of what they offer. Hope this helps!
IslandGrl
I'm not pregnant or under 34, but my wife and I have lived on fruit and vegetables for a week. The food is amazing, fresh and sometimes organic.
I see you trip type is "Romance". This is the place for you. Every where you see couples holding hands. It certainly has sent a spark to my 45 year old marriage!
Duckbill912
I didn't personally have any salad, but the fruit didn't give any of us any problems. We did a couples massage and that was nice. Not sure if they offer any prenatal package, but to schedule just walk over to the Spa which is located just to the left of the main pool.
BeigeDre
The restaurants on the resort use/serve "clean" water for " " food production" ". The water in the Rooms and Suits is NOT safe to drink! There are signs in each suit/room directing you to NOT drink the water from the sinks/showers/tubs. Bottled water is provided in each room. Keep on top of your Maid Staff for stocking bottles of water in your mini fridge. Check with your OB/GYN about HepA inoculation before going to the DR!
MarriedAtJollyBeach
What is Ocean World?3 answers
What is Ocean World that comes with higher level rooms?
4 years, 52 months ago
nicole
Ocean World is a park which is similar to SeaWorld, located near the resort. Please contact the beach experts at 800-915-2322 for more information.
LisaCC
Ocean World is equivalent to a place like Sea World. In addition, it has a water slide, a pool and a beach. There are optional add-ons to swim with sharks and dolphins.
Timateo
Ocean World is a separate company from the resort. Although it is located just outside the gates of the resort property. It's part water park and swim with dolphins, stingrays etc.
HHHH
A little Confused about this VIP Bracelet6 answers
So if i am booking through Cheap Caribean, what WILL i have access too and what will i nOT have access to? Can i upgrade my bracelet to get full access everywhere? How much does that cost?
4 years, 51 months ago
Steph
All guests that book through CheapCaribbean will have access to the VIP Beach, along with the other amenities that are listed on our website. Please call one of our Beach Experts at 800 915 2322 for the most up to date information on what is being offered at this resort.
BethCC
We were told that the only way to receive a VIP bracelet was to buy membership into the resort. We only had access to the main beach and our dining options were very limited.
Funtobehad
Just returned from one week vacation. IF you are not a member of Lifestyle Resorts your access is limited to beach areas and room upgrades. They will try to sell you a membership. Pretty high pressure.
dvince
Don't know about the upgrade. We have been here for two weeks with just the basic bracelet and have had an amazing time. Don't feel like we've missed much.
Duckbill912
only access to VIP beach- you are shut out from the ajoining VIP beach for "Members" cannot upgrade unless you but into becoming a member. Some restaurants are NOT included in your C.C. package. I offered to pay, and was turned down
BOATERGIRL
With the VIP band you have access to everything. Without the VIP band you have limited access. You can upgrade but I don't know the cost.
HHHH
What resorts do we have access to?4 answers
4 years, 51 months ago
Bobby
Your all inclusive package at Lifestyles does not include entry to any other resort. However, if you book at nearby Cofresi, you will stay have access to Lifestyles.
BethCC
You can access the entire resort with the exception of the VIP beach areas.
Timateo
Lifestyle Tropical and Confresi
Duckbill912
You have access to Tropical Lifestyles and Confresi Palms
BeigeDre
If i get there before 11am on check-in day, what is the price they charge for another night?2 answers
4 years, 51 months ago
bobby
For inquiries pertaining to adding a night to your reservation, please call our Existing Reservations Department at #1-800-915-2322 for assistance with availability and pricing. Our offices are open daily from 5am-3am EST.
MariaCC
The front desk should give you a "Check In Ticket" to keep with you while you are using the facilities on the resort.
MarriedAtJollyBeach
do the rooms have air conditioning6 answers
A/c in all rooms /yes or no
4 years, 51 months ago
Paris Illinois
All rooms at this resort do come equipped with air conditioning.
BethCC
yes all rooms have AC
JessEmmy
Yes
SarahP42
yes
Duckbill912
Yes all rooms are air-conditioned
Roblaw
yes!
BOATERGIRL
VIP options6 answers
When booking through CheapCaribbean in order to get the package with VIP beach and parties do I have to select the pre-selected dates or can I choose my own dates and still get the VIP beach and Parties?
4 years, 51 months ago
NY
Most deals are available for a wide variety of dates, please call a sales agent at CheapCaribbean.com at 800 915 2322 and we would be happy to tell you what is included in your package for the dates that you choose. Thanks!
BethCC
You can still go to the VIP beach parties! Everyone at the resort is welcome to the Thursday & Sunday parties and you MUST GO!!! ;)
SarahP42
My wife and I got our trip canceled by vacations to go 12 hours before we were to leave.. cheap Caribbean booked us and we were on our vacation 9 hours latter.
happydrink
the party is every Sunday and all are invited- Pig roast, huge buffet, show, fireworks, foam party.
BOATERGIRL
You can pick your own dates. There is a big Welcome Party on Thursdays and another on Sundays. All are weather dependant.
MarriedAtJollyBeach
There are beaches called VIP beaches. You don't need a VIP wrist band to go to some awesome parties and some VIP beaches. Keep in mind there are beaches and parties reserved for VIP wrist bands only. Dates are preset by the resort staff so you can select what you want to do according to the resort schedule.
HHHH
What is in the fitness centre ?2 answers
4 years, 50 months ago
guest
The fitness center includes 2 Gyms with Exercise Equipment. For specific information regarding what equipment is included, please call us at 1.800.915.2322 to speak to one of our beach experts.
SamCC
They had a squat rack, a couple treadmills, flat barbell bench, plenty of dumbells and some other old machine type upper body stuff. Something just to give you that pump you want. The actual Spa area is nice, and we did a couples massage that was nice.
BeigeDre
can i have a third guest stay in my room?3 answers
4 years, 50 months ago
Randee
Please call our customer service department at 1-800-915-2322 for further assistance.
CaitlinCC
Absolutely!
BriBri
Yes, but you will have to pay extra if they were not registered during your initial reservation.
HHHH
Can this be purchased without air?4 answers
4 years, 50 months ago
Dominican Republic
This resort can be purchased as hotel only, as well as air and hotel package.
CaitlinCC
Yes it can, but you may find that cheapcaribbean has a better package than buying them separately. I would look at the airfare of the proposed dates of your travel and add that to room reservation and see what the difference is.
BeigeDre
Yes
HHHH
yes, you can book your airfare yourself.
daddysbunky
Are there shopping areas where we can buy souvenirs or villages that we can walk around in outside the resort?6 answers
4 years, 50 months ago
ny
There are excursions that you can take to go on shopping trips such as Puerto Plata City Tour & Cable Car that you can book ahead of time with CheapCaribbean.com. Other excursions may be available at the resort.
LizCC
No problem with souvenirs but would not advise walking off grounds.
BriBri
There were some shops right on the beach. They even had a "Wallmart". If you go on excursions there are always usually places that love to sell people goods, so I'm sure you won't have a problem with that. I wouldn't recommend just trying to walk off the resort and look for souvenirs. Plus there was nothing in walking distance.
BeigeDre
There is nothing within walking distance for souvenir shopping other than the beach. We took a taxi and went into the city of Puerto Plata for this
CinR81
Take the City Tour! :-) and yes, there are a few shops on the resort to purchase souvenirs. Also, they have merchants outside the Pearl and the Casablanca that will hound you to no end to buy from them as well. To the point of driving you insane.
MarriedAtJollyBeach
None in walking distance. You will have to rent a driver to take you into town. They will wait for you and return you to the resort safely.
HHHH
What are some tips/things I need to know that will make my stay more enjoyable?6 answers
For example:
Easiest way to make dinner reservations.
How to get a good spot on the beach?
Best restaurants/pools/bars?
Best building to stay in?
4 years, 50 months ago
Luda
SIGN UP WITH GUEST SERVICES FROM DAY ONE WITH YOUR DINNER RESERVATIONS, OR YOULL BE EATING THE SAME BUFFET ALL WEEK. WE TRIED TO GET INTO THE BLUE LAGOON SEAFOOD, THEY WERE BOOKED ALL WEEK. THE BEST PLACE T STAY IN THE RESORT IS THE CROWN VILLAS....ITS V.I.P. AND GETS YOU INTO SPECIAL SPOTS.
WARNER
The easiest way to make dinner reservations is to go to guest services every morning between 9am-12pm. Take your current reservation slip with you because you will basically be trading what you have with something you may want. Like a better time or a different restaurant. I would suggest going to go El Pilon (at Confresi Palms). It was authentic Dominican food. If you don't have reservations for that night you can also request them at guest services. I would try to get as many dinner reservations as possible. For the beach, you have to get up early and line up at abput 10-15 min before 8am. Once they let people go in to select their cabanas, just put your stuff on the one of your choice and it was fine. We would then leave and go have breakfast and come back with no issues. As far as the buildings go, I don't really know which are the best but I was in building 5, on the 3rd floor and it wasn't bad.
BeigeDre
Visiting websites such as Trip Advisor is also a good resource for feedback of specific resorts.
MariaCC
I do not recommend the Tropical resort, I actually changed from there to the Cofresi resort next door. This resort, though is part of Lifestyle, seemed more like a resort and less business like, compared to the Tropical.
Do make dinner reservations everyday otherwise you'd be stuck at the buffet everyday.
CinR81
Pick up the room phone and make reservations or stop in Resort Services.
In my opinion there is no bad spot on the beach but if you want a specific location then you have to go early.
I ate at many restaurants on the property and all were great. The pools were awesome - some quiet - some party - some romantic.
You should look at a diagram of the property before booking your room. Some buildings are further away from the noise other buildings are close to all the partying. But all rooms are great!
HHHH
You have to go to the lobby at a certain time of day to see if there were any cancellations and you must go to the restaurant where there was a cancellation. They made us two reservations at two restaurants but it's not very easy to change. You can go to guest services and try though. It's easier to change reservations than to make a new one.
Get to the beach with the cabanas early for a good spot. The beach that isn't part of the resort is always open and not a lot of people go down there to hang out since it's technically not part of the resort.
The pool bar at Lifestyle was pretty awesome. There's 3 pools in that area and it's right near where the main buffet is.
Urbans
What should I bring with me?6 answers
Is there anything I absolutely should bring or anything you wish you had brought with you? I am going in June. Or anything that I do not need to bring? Not looking for answers like "sunblock" or "bathing suit".
4 years, 50 months ago
Luda
Here is a link to the "what to pack article on our blog. We hope this helps! https://blog.cheapcaribbean.com/page/2?s=what+to+pack
LizCC
I would make sure sure you bring a lot of $1 bills for tipping. At some resorts it is strongly advised not to tip, but I think it has gotten to the point where the staff actually expects it. I took about $70 in ones and I stayed from Monday-Saturday morning. Whenever someone assist you with something or if you go on an excursion they expect a tip. Oh and to enter the country you will need to pay $10 per person as soon as you get off the plane, before you get to customs. Some excursions require/suggest tennis shoes, you might want to bring a pair just in case. They do have a gym if you're into that.
BeigeDre
You won't need a hair dryer-the bathrooms have them. If you plan on spending any time in your room, and don't want to pay for the Wi-Fi, maybe a dvd player-TV is very limited. try to bring sunscreen, since it's VERY expensive there! Maybe a refillable water bottle for the beach-they supply bottled water in the rooms, but it would have been easier if we'd had those.
Cindygee
I wish I didn't bring as many dresses and fancier sandals or shoes. This place is more for shorts and tank tops or sun dresses. No place really required formal or informal clothes for the women... men needed long pants and shoes in some restaurants
CinR81
definitely bring lots of singles and fives for tipping
CAMP120
Water shoes for the horrible rocky beach they have there.
prp449
Is the Ocean World pass a single day?2 answers
Is the Ocean World pass for a single day or for the duration of the trip? What's included in the pass?
4 years, 49 months ago
Ginny
yes. Only 1 day .
Hardly worth it
GeorgeIvanov
I chose not go for Ocean World, Overly priced. You still have access to the casino if you just want shuttle ride over there
Halfmpa