Hotel Deals - $12 All Inclusive Resort Puerto Plata today only

The AI Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort in the Dominican Republic is available at $12 per day per person today only through a link to Cheap Caribbean at travelzoo.com. For the dates I am looking at, hotels.com is showing $173 per night. The resort is rated #16 out of 51 hotels in Puerto Plata on tripadvisor.com. Go to the travelzoo home page and hold cursor over the first circle on "Today's Top Deals"

it's often been $11 or $12.

Thanks for the heads up. It sure beats the $7,000.00 that an unhappy poster on tripadvisor paid for a stay around 2 weeks ago for 3 people. :eek:

Would the "$20 trick" work here? :D

Would the "$20 trick" work here? :D

Why not?

$20 goes a long way!!!

Everywhere!!!

Why not?

$20 goes a long way!!!

Everywhere!!!

Not Here;) www.yabyum.com

Would the "$20 trick" work here? :D

?

And it's not today only. I see "Book by Jan. 13. Top 20 deal – sells out quickly."

Thanks! Just booked a room for parents of AA_EXP09 for 1 month. (Whether or not they have enough clothes to last that long is another thing...)
After all, it's probably cheaper than paying for food, beer, utilities, gym membership, etc. in YVR for 1 month.
(And, no, this is a gift to them. I am already rich enough from AAMRQ trading this morning.)

Just booked 5 nights for my gf and I for this August. Thanks!

I hjave been to that property. It deteriorated badly but was bought last year by people who put money into it..

$20 probably will not work as the reservation check in people are pretty powerless to change anything without a supervisor input. If you can somehow get the supervisor involved then propino will work. The DR runs on bribes but you gotta find the right person to bribe otherwise you start involving more and more people to get what you want.

If you go make use of the VIP beach they have some pretty good food there, A line usually forms early for the beach and it is one of the best places to get drinks (premium) and has free wifi,

Reservations for the specialty dining must be made by 1 or 2 can not remember which THE Day before YOU WANT TO EAT AT THE RESTAURANT.

Take the transfer option as the resort has it's own fleet now; otherwise you are at the mercy of the cabbies who will charge you what the traffic will bear. If you do not negotiate in advance you are threaded rod shafted.
You will be asked to attend a short timeshare presentation. If you value your vacation time do not do it as they will keep you as long as they can. Also everywhere you go someone will ask you to attend the timeshare presentation. Your answer should be I have already gone. After you say this once or twice to the shills they will remember you and not bother you anymore. Any other answer and they may bug you forever
But it is nice; although not near the town there is a crappy (not Vegas quality) casino nearby' there is not real oversight by the government with no guaranty minimum per cent payoff on slots. Ocean world which is OK is also nearby/

I hjave been to that property. It deteriorated badly but was bought last year by people who put money into it..

$20 probably will not work as the reservation check in people are pretty powerless to change anything without a supervisor input. If you can somehow get the supervisor involved then propino will work. The DR runs on bribes but you gotta find the right person to bribe otherwise you start involving more and more people to get what you want.

If you go make use of the VIP beach they have some pretty good food there, A line usually forms early for the beach and it is one of the best places to get drinks (premium) and has free wifi,

Reservations for the specialty dining must be made by 1 or 2 can not remember which THE Day before YOU WANT TO EAT AT THE RESTAURANT.

Take the transfer option as the resort has it's own fleet now; otherwise you are at the mercy of the cabbies who will charge you what the traffic will bear. If you do not negotiate in advance you are threaded rod shafted.
You will be asked to attend a short timeshare presentation. If you value your vacation time do not do it as they will keep you as long as they can. Also everywhere you go someone will ask you to attend the timeshare presentation. Your answer should be I have already gone. After you say this once or twice to the shills they will remember you and not bother you anymore. Any other answer and they may bug you forever
But it is nice; although not near the town there is a crappy (not Vegas quality) casino nearby' there is not real oversight by the government with no guaranty minimum per cent payoff on slots. Ocean world which is OK is also nearby/

That's quite a bit to remember considering my parents are in their 60 s and don't read FT...

That's quite a bit to remember considering my parents are in their 60 s and don't read FT...

I am 62 and you probably have a printer

I am 62 and you probably have a printer

That's why I love flyertalk! K:Dnowledge and laughter!

Thanks for the heads up. Will definitely keep all those points in mind.

The AI Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort in the Dominican Republic is available at $12 per day per person today only through a link to Cheap Caribbean at travelzoo.com.

I couldn't find the cancellation policy. Anyone know?

I believe it's $50 per person.

I couldn't find the cancellation policy. Anyone know?

Yes, Cheap Cariibean will hang you out to dry. Happened to me last year when my wife couldn't go. Good thing I called them before flying out because they said any changes to the reservation would disqualify the special rate. Quoted me $100+ a day if I wanted to go solo.

Read the reviews on Trip Advisor. The resort herds people in to sell them timeshare, and solo travelers aren't their demographics. Simple. As to Cheap Carribean, google them and you'll see that this company is well known to nickel-and-dime their customers every chance they've got. You can be certain that cancelations or any changes to your reservations no matter how mundane will lead to additional charges.

Having said that, push comes to shove what exactly do you have to lose? $85per a week? I'd say worth the risk or just buy a travel insurance if it's cheaper.

I went last year, and I am trying to go back on this sale (there will be other sales if you miss this one) .....

Figure after taxes and fees $12 really equals about $20 per person.

Here is my quick take and more details for those who care.

It is an incredible deal at this price. There is nothing wrong with it. It may not sparkle and shine like the places that cost $100 per person, per day .... but you will have as good of a time as you allow yourself.

Now more details for those who want to know:

Airport transfer last year was $30 per person roundtrip ... a very good deal, do it!!! Book it from cheapcarribean.com ... you can add it later, don't need to book it when you book your room.

The rooms: sort of like a holiday inn, nothing special, nothing wrong with it. Mini fridge comes with bottled water, soda and beer, stocked every day, but never with enough. Nothing you can do will change how they stock the fridge. I tried tipping, asking, begging .... everyone gets the same list of drinks ... not a big deal, because there are plenty of places to get more drinks, but the 20 oz soda bottles are nice to have.

The bars - there are plenty ... if u drink beer ... only presidente on draft, no other choices ... its fine ... the other all incusives I have been too only offer 1 choice on draft, not a big deal. Plenty of awesome blender drinks to put you in a tropical mood .... the VIP beach bar pours better quality alcohol, if you aren't drinking beer.

Food - Buffet is perfectly fine, with good selections, not outstanding but totally ok.... The seafood place was awesome ... my top pick. Italian place was good for lunch .... and the owners party on Sunday night was incredible (think lots of lobsters and steaks) .... Asian place was below average. Didn't eat at the other place (mexican I think). Sushi bar is great for a snack ... no raw fish, all things like crab, but it did taste good. The beach bar has burgers and wings and other snack food, it was all fine, but I never made it a meal.

The pools and the beach are nice ... lots of waiters, swim up bar in main pool. Wifi works fine, but only on during the day.

They say no need to tip ... bring about 50 US $1 bills .... it will make u a hero and get great service .... at the airport, no need to change any money ... you will never need any local currency.

Let me know if anyone has any questions.

A few more things ... bring a sleeve of solo cups .... the bartenders won't mind giving you bigger drinks, but they only have small cups. Plus, as you use the cups, it will free up room in your bag for other things.

Entertainment is weak - (like every all inclusive I have been too) ... in particular at night. TV will only get a few stations ... bring some cards or reading material or something. ... the places gets quiet at night. On Thursdays they take you to a show at the casino/ocean world .. it is nothing special ... but it is something to do at night, and the drinks are free there too.... just be ready for a very cheesy vegas review type show ... I can't even remember what language it was in, it is forgettable.

I am 62 and you probably have a printer

Sure, but we'll assume it's a dot-matrix....

So what flights can be found cheap to get into there? Spirit, Jetblue?

JudyJFLA

nearest airport POP not a busy airport
AA nonstopfrom MIA closest to you in Florida also through SJU
CO/UA from EWr
Delta From ATL
JETLUE from Kennedy.
NO US SCARE service

SANTIAGO is served by many more airlines and places but it is hard to get to resort from STI

Santo Domingo has great bus service to Puerto Plata area but then you will be overcharged by taxi and end up spending more than if you flew to POP direct

nearest airport POP not a busy airport
AA nonstopfrom MIA closest to you in Florida also through SJU
CO/UA from EWr
Delta From ATL
JETLUE from Kennedy.
NO US SCARE service

SANTIAGO is served by many more airlines and places but it is hard to get to resort from STI

Santo Domingo has great bus service to Puerto Plata area but then you will be overcharged by taxi and end up spending more than if you flew to POP direct

Delta DOES NOT fly to Puerto Plata.....only Santiago (STI). The only airlines that fly to POP from the US with scheduled service are JetBlue (B6), CO/UA and AA. Santiago to Puerto Plata is not a bad ride....less convenient than POP but usually the fares are much lower.

As for the resort, I have not stayed at the resort but how could you go wrong with a $12 per night per person deal??? That includes the taxes and fees unless somehow the resort charges something extra upon arrival. My relatives just bought a week over the 4th of July and the total price was $168 (2 people for 7 nights including all taxes and fees). Cheap Caribbean asked if they wanted to buy travel insurance for $13.95 and it said cancel with no questions asked for a full refund minus $25 charge. Pretty amazing deal I'd say for a week at an all-inclusive resort. Even if it was less than perfect how could $24 a night total for 2 ppl be a bad deal to have a room, a beach and food and drink?

Delta DOES NOT fly to Puerto Plata.....only Santiago (STI). The only airlines that fly to POP from the US with scheduled service are JetBlue (B6), CO/UA and AA. Santiago to Puerto Plata is not a bad ride....less convenient than POP but usually the fares are much lower.

As for the resort, I have not stayed at the resort but how could you go wrong with a $12 per night per person deal??? That includes the taxes and fees unless somehow the resort charges something extra upon arrival. My relatives just bought a week over the 4th of July and the total price was $168 (2 people for 7 nights including all taxes and fees). Cheap Caribbean asked if they wanted to buy travel insurance for $13.95 and it said cancel with no questions asked for a full refund minus $25 charge. Pretty amazing deal I'd say for a week at an all-inclusive resort. Even if it was less than perfect how could $24 a night total for 2 ppl be a bad deal to have a room, a beach and food and drink?

Wow Delta use to be the Cheap Caribbean partner to POP

Would the "$20 trick" work here? :D

When I was last in Puerto Plata, I recall that most tricks cost ~$30-35

When I was last in Puerto Plata, I recall that most tricks cost ~$30-35

what tricks are u talking about, are there like girls or...... waiting by the roadside outside the resort?

Lets be frank, its Latin America and poor, what kinda extra's can you bribe yourself an upgrade to?

So they turn off the wifi at night? Are there alot of hanger on lookn for Visas and as Pitbull says I dont mean a cc?

I feel sorry for people from the midwest who end up in places like this... but for the rest of us what can we bribe ourselves an upgrade to?

I went to this deal with a few friends last year at $19 a night. 4 people, 2 married. We had a great time. You can't beat this deal! Is it a 5 star resort? Absolutely not, but you get 2 pools, 4 or 5 restaurants and a buffet, bars, "VIP" Beach beds, a hotel, several bars, and all you can eat/drink included in the $12 per person!
If you go into town and eat at a more touristy restaurant, you will spend $12 in ONE MEAL!

Last year I said that if they ran this deal again without a cap for how long you could stay, that I would move in!! $12 a day and you're living on the beach with all your food, drinks, and a maid! Doesn't get better.

If you don't require fancy spa service, and speak a little Spanish, you can negotiate rock bottom rates for a massage on the beach too from the local massage therapist in the shack. About 3-5x cheaper than the resort's massage prices.

I highly recommend for the thrill seekers to sign up for whitewater rafting, and/or canyoning with Iguana Mama over in Cabarete, and then of course the 27 charcos (waterfalls) trip. Don't book the 27 Charcos trip with any of the companies though, you will pay $60-$80 and only do 7 of the 27 falls. If you just catch a cab, rent a car, or take the public guagua busses for $3 round trip, you can hire a guide at 27 charcos for only $12 for all 27!
www.27charcos.com has all the info you need to get there via public transit and pay 5x less than the tours and get 5x more waterfalls!
www.iguanamama.com has other great adventure tours.

Booked a return trip for me and 9 friends in August. Spending 10 days all over the island doing adventure travel, and then 7 nights at the resort.

Like someone else said though - if you aren't planning on leaving the resort, there's no need to exchange money. You will get charged in USD for the cab to the resort and can exchange money at the resort if you want to do anything in town.

PS - if you do take a cab into town, don't take the cabs on site. You will obviously pay a LOT more. Walk all the way out to the street and flag a cab. $1 in a car with 1 headlight and no AC, or $10 in a car with 2 headlights and AC... no brainer on the $1, plus you get a little more... culture!


Thanks! Just booked a room for parents of AA_EXP09 for 1 month. How did you book them a room for 1 month? The rate is only valid for a 4-7 night stay. I tried searching beyond 7 nights and got $100+ a night for the rate. Please share!

it's often been $11 or $12.
Was on sale for $19 last year several times, and then $11 only if you could travel in the next 2 months for Cheap Caribbean's 11 year anniversary.

?

And it's not today only. I see "Book by Jan. 13. Top 20 deal – sells out quickly."
It was good all this week through Friday. Now they extended it. I was surprised it wasn't posted on here.


Take the transfer option as the resort has it's own fleet now; otherwise you are at the mercy of the cabbies who will charge you what the traffic will bear. If you do not negotiate in advance you are threaded rod shafted.
You will be asked to attend a short timeshare presentation. If you value your vacation time do not do it as they will keep you as long as they can. Also everywhere you go someone will ask you to attend the timeshare presentation.
Maybe it helps that I speak Spanish, but we negotiated cab fares for a lot less than the transfer rates both ways. Practice a little Spanish, and play hard ball. They don't take your price, you walk away - you always get your price!

We also only got asked to view their "welcome package" once at check in, and never again. This was October, 2011.


Read the reviews on Trip Advisor. The resort herds people in to sell them timeshare, and solo travelers aren't their demographics.
Having said that, push comes to shove what exactly do you have to lose? $85per a week? I'd say worth the risk or just buy a travel insurance if it's cheaper.
Neither me or my 3 friends got herded in, and 2 of them are a married couple... We had a blast!

I went last year, and I am trying to go back on this sale (there will be other sales if you miss this one) .....

Figure after taxes and fees $12 really equals about $20 per person.
I went last year too. The taxes come out to less than $1 per person, not $8. I booked 10 people for this year.

I went to this deal with a few friends last year at $19 a night. 4 people, 2 married. We had a great time. You can't beat this deal! Is it a 5 star resort? Absolutely not, but you get 2 pools, 4 or 5 restaurants and a buffet, bars, "VIP" Beach beds, a hotel, several bars, and all you can eat/drink included in the $12 per person!
If you go into town and eat at a more touristy restaurant, you will spend $12 in ONE MEAL!

Last year I said that if they ran this deal again without a cap for how long you could stay, that I would move in!! $12 a day and you're living on the beach with all your food, drinks, and a maid! Doesn't get better.

If you don't require fancy spa service, and speak a little Spanish, you can negotiate rock bottom rates for a massage on the beach too from the local massage therapist in the shack. About 3-5x cheaper than the resort's massage prices.

I highly recommend for the thrill seekers to sign up for whitewater rafting, and/or canyoning with Iguana Mama over in Cabarete, and then of course the 27 charcos (waterfalls) trip. Don't book the 27 Charcos trip with any of the companies though, you will pay $60-$80 and only do 7 of the 27 falls. If you just catch a cab, rent a car, or take the public guagua busses for $3 round trip, you can hire a guide at 27 charcos for only $12 for all 27!
www.27charcos.com has all the info you need to get there via public transit and pay 5x less than the tours and get 5x more waterfalls!
www.iguanamama.com has other great adventure tours.

Booked a return trip for me and 9 friends in August. Spending 10 days all over the island doing adventure travel, and then 7 nights at the resort.

Like someone else said though - if you aren't planning on leaving the resort, there's no need to exchange money. You will get charged in USD for the cab to the resort and can exchange money at the resort if you want to do anything in town.

PS - if you do take a cab into town, don't take the cabs on site. You will obviously pay a LOT more. Walk all the way out to the street and flag a cab. $1 in a car with 1 headlight and no AC, or $10 in a car with 2 headlights and AC... no brainer on the $1, plus you get a little more... culture!


How did you book them a room for 1 month? The rate is only valid for a 4-7 night stay. I tried searching beyond 7 nights and got $100+ a night for the rate. Please share!


Was on sale for $19 last year several times, and then $11 only if you could travel in the next 2 months for Cheap Caribbean's 11 year anniversary.


It was good all this week through Friday. Now they extended it. I was surprised it wasn't posted on here.


Maybe it helps that I speak Spanish, but we negotiated cab fares for a lot less than the transfer rates both ways. Practice a little Spanish, and play hard ball. They don't take your price, you walk away - you always get your price!

We also only got asked to view their "welcome package" once at check in, and never again. This was October, 2011.


Neither me or my 3 friends got herded in, and 2 of them are a married couple... We had a blast!


I went last year too. The taxes come out to less than $1 per person, not $8. I booked 10 people for this year.

Back to back stays.
5x6 nights.

Back to back stays.
5x6 nights.

Do you think it's going to work when they check out, and check back in the same morning?
That would be awesome if it did!

I went last year too. The taxes come out to less than $1 per person, not $8. I booked 10 people for this year.[/QUOTE]

My memory might be wrong ... even better. I am still trying to put this together for this year.

One more thing .... the power does seem to go out every now and then. The Dominican Republic is not a first world country, and sometimes issues like this can occur ..... but you just have to roll with it. It never became a bother.

And I don't speak much Spanish, so while it can be an advantage, don't fail to book this deal, because of the language. You can be just fine on English alone at the resort.

Thank you to everyone for your input. This is helping me a lot and I'm sure other people as well. I could likely find all this info in one of the 800+ reviews on CheapCaribbean.com but I value FT'ers' opinions a bit more. Thanks!

And I don't speak much Spanish, so while it can be an advantage, don't fail to book this deal, because of the language. You can be just fine on English alone at the resort.

Truth!! After going last year, I'm a full believer and will shout this deal from the rooftops. I wonder how many years the new management will run these crazy deals?
You can get hotels all over the DR for $10-$35 a night, but not all inclusive like this deal!

Mike1625 and x712xdamx, thanks for your detailed accounts. I also booked 5 days for May with a BA award flight to Santiago. I mean, for the money how bad can it be? Don't know yet if I'll be actually able to go, but for 61 bucks I'm willing to risk it.

Do you think it's going to work when they check out, and check back in the same morning?
That would be awesome if it did!

I've done that myself when mattress running.

I've done that myself when mattress running.

but matress running is different than getting a promotional price that's only good for 7 nights - for 30 nights. Let us know though, and if it works, I'll give it a shot next year! haha

Sale extended AGAIN! "Final Days" it says now... Goodness!
Maybe we should have a Flyertalk DO at the resort? $12 is easy

Sale extended AGAIN! "Final Days" it says now... Goodness!
Maybe we should have a Flyertalk DO at the resort? $12 is easy

So wait where do I go to book it? That website on the first post can't seem to find the deal. Also can it be booked for anytime or just a certain time?

So wait where do I go to book it? That website on the first post can't seem to find the deal. Also can it be booked for anytime or just a certain time?

http://www.cheapcaribbean.com/

Loook for final days on right side

Sale extended AGAIN! "Final Days" it says now... Goodness!
Maybe we should have a Flyertalk DO at the resort? $12 is easy

But all of us booked for different times....

Wanting to use AA miles flying into POP is a nightmare every connection is over night

Flying to Santiago eliminated that but how are you guys going to travel to puerto plata?


I would get in about 9pm not sure how late the buses run. Lots of stuff on google about links to companies that you can book with in advance for about $100 bucks, find a taxi on the ground, or do you rent a car anything neat to go do on your own once you check in or is a rental going to be more $$

But all of us booked for different times....
Yeah, not too realistic, nor do I have time to line up the details. :/

Wanting to use AA miles flying into POP is a nightmare every connection is over night

Flying to Santiago eliminated that but how are you guys going to travel to puerto plata?


I would get in about 9pm not sure how late the buses run. Lots of stuff on google about links to companies that you can book with in advance for about $100 bucks, find a taxi on the ground, or do you rent a car anything neat to go do on your own once you check in or is a rental going to be more $$

If you have your own car at the resort you can drive into town, drive up and down the coast for the other beaches (Sosua, Cabarete, etc.), drive to www.27charcos.com (canyon with waterfalls!), go hiking in the mountains, etc..

Other than that, yeah airline's flights into POP & STI from the states usually involve aweful connections unless you live in Miami!
You can take a public charter bus (similar to Greyhound in the states) to Puerto Plata for about $3 or $4 on Caribe Tours or Metro (their 2 big bus companies). They run on the hour from 6am-8pm. Sounds like you're getting in too late though unless you want to taxi and then campout at the bus station. Would be a long night!

But yeah, if you google around you can find email addresses in other travel forums of drivers to negotiate a price. $100 is steep actually. $50-$80 should be negotiable.

Yeah, not too realistic, nor do I have time to line up the details. :/



If you have your own car at the resort you can drive into town, drive up and down the coast for the other beaches (Sosua, Cabarete, etc.), drive to www.27charcos.com (canyon with waterfalls!), go hiking in the mountains, etc..

Other than that, yeah airline's flights into POP & STI from the states usually involve aweful connections unless you live in Miami!

Actually my flight from NYC arrives in STI in the morning.

You can take a public charter bus (similar to Greyhound in the states) to Puerto Plata for about $3 or $4 on Caribe Tours or Metro (their 2 big bus companies). They run on the hour from 6am-8pm. Sounds like you're getting in too late though unless you want to taxi and then campout at the bus station. Would be a long night!

From what I understood from reading other forums, there are no buses from the airport. One would have to take a cab into the city to catch a bus.

But yeah, if you google around you can find email addresses in other travel forums of drivers to negotiate a price. $100 is steep actually. $50-$80 should be negotiable.

Do you know if there is a parking fee at the resort?

Actually my flight from NYC arrives in STI in the morning.



From what I understood from reading other forums, there are no buses from the airport. One would have to take a cab into the city to catch a bus.



Do you know if there is a parking fee at the resort?

there is No parking fee. But I lived in the DR and would not recommend driving. Dominicans are maniacs. Rules say Gringo at fault always. You can be thrown in jail (horrid places)while accident is investigated. Your insurance from elsewhere is worthless and CC insurance will not help you quickly enough to be of value. If god forbid there is a problem you may not be permitted to leave the country.

No parking fee.

Thanks.

Took advantage of this offer last year and went for five days in Dec. 2011. The VIP bar at the beach which you are entitled to use and top shelf liquor. The food at the buffet restaurant was above average and we got one specialty restaurant reservation and the food was excellent.

Airfares into Santiago (about 35 miles away) are cheap, but the problem is getting upt to Confresi Beach. If you take a taxi its about $80 each way. The bus is about $4 but I would only take it in the daytime.

Nobody even APPROACHED us to buy a timeshare or condo.:cool:

http://www.cheapcaribbean.com/

Loook for final days on right side

Thank You. But weird still could not find it. The deal is probably over by now. Not sure why I could not find it though.

Actually my flight from NYC arrives in STI in the morning.

From what I understood from reading other forums, there are no buses from the airport. One would have to take a cab into the city to catch a bus.

There's not a bus specifically from the airport. Take a cab to the bus station in Santiago and hop on the hourly Caribe Tours bus to Puerto Plata. If you're traveling by yourself, this will save you a lot of money. If you're traveling in a group, taking a cab is worth the extra $10 each.

there is No parking fee. But I lived in the DR and would not recommend driving. Dominicans are maniacs. Rules say Gringo at fault always. You can be thrown in jail (horrid places)while accident is investigated. Your insurance from elsewhere is worthless and CC insurance will not help you quickly enough to be of value. If god forbid there is a problem you may not be permitted to leave the country.

... Welcome to the Caribbean & Latin America!

Thank You. But weird still could not find it. The deal is probably over by now. Not sure why I could not find it though.

Still live as of 5:09am EST! lol.
Super easy, this is the direct link. On the left click "hotel only" and punch in your dates. If you still can't figure it out, then I don't know how you figured out how to click "Reply" on the FT forums! :)
http://www.cheapcaribbean.com/core/resortAvailability/cc.2985.html

Found the deal for any night I wanted. However, finding cheap flights down is another story. Any suggestions? I'd like to fly out of ELP or ABQ but could cheaply reposition to PHX or DEN. Cheap I found was $695 from DEN on AA. Is this really a good deal into the Caribbean?

is price midweek or weekend?
During spring break?
Easter?
what month?
You did not give enough information

I'm looking at this summer. Anytime mid-June through Mid-Aug with the exception of July 14-22nd. Weekends are best but a Thursday-Monday/Tuesday would work.

I'm looking at this summer. Anytime mid-June through Mid-Aug with the exception of July 14-22nd. Weekends are best but a Thursday-Monday/Tuesday would work.

This far out your best bet is booking with JetBlue as if (and most likely when) the price drops they will credit you the difference.
The hotel deal ends tonight at midnight and is only for bookings through June 30, 2012

but there will probably be other opportunities at or near the 12.00 price

For those of you who have been there.

Any tips once your actually there?

As far as yes to printing the voucher and bring it to check it? Anyway around waiting a few hours for the check in process some reviews were 2hr wait to 16hr wait.....

Do the timeshare tour to get vouchers for some of the specialty restaurants which seem to be the Italian, Mexican, sushi, steakhouse? Otherwise what does the vip get us as there are a few vip colored bracelets just access to the beach beds and beach bar but otherwise only food you get is at 1 buffet?

Thanks for any other tips lots of good reviews cant wait to go!

Sale extended now through the end of year new T&C's
From $ 12 per person per night All Inclusive!


Final days

Free Access to VIP Beach Parties
Minimum 4 Night Stay
Maximum 7 Night Stay
Travel: May 1 - December 23, 2012
$24 per person per night for Travel Jan 3 - April 30

...I feel sorry for people from the midwest who end up in places like this... but for the rest of us what can we bribe ourselves an upgrade to?

Your statement implies this may be a substandard resort. If that's the case, I would not be much happier in an upgraded room.

Are you suggesting folks from the midwest can afford to fly to the Dominican Republic but not $20 or $50 for a room upgrade?

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1103.html

"Crime continues to be a problem throughout the Dominican Republic.

The embassy regularly receives reports of individuals and families who have become victims of crime while within the boundaries of their resort hotel. A growing number of these crimes involve the burglary of the room and even the removal of the room safe. In general, the criminals do not commit their crime in the presence of the guest, but it is not unheard of for guests to be victimized in their own room, caught off guard in their sleep. We strongly recommend vigilance. Hotels generally will not assume responsibility for valuables left in a room."

Cheap all inclusive resorts come at a price.

the rooms are adequate no upgrade is necessary I stayed there about a year ago on a whim because the price was so good. Second I lived in the Dr on the north coast near Puerto Plata for about 3 years
I do not believe you will be able to bribe the front desk person for an upgrade because.
1) in the Dominican Republic jobs are very scare and so the front desk people are reluctant to do anything out of the ordinary that might draw the ire of the superior. Realize most of the underlings actually paid someone to obtain the mediocre job and many people count on them for support. People paying the equivalent of one months salary to obtain jobs is not uncommon. These people cannot afford to lose the job.

2) The front desk clerk is powerless to do anything for you without approval of someone. As I stated previously bribes called propino is a common and accepted practice but the problem when checking in is to figure out who can do something for the propino. It would not be unusual for someone to take your propino and then hand you off to someone else who would accept your propino and hand you off to the third person who could actually do the upgrade for a third propino. Yes it is organized in some places to fleece the GRINGO

Examples of propino
For example when coming through customs at the airport a propino to the JEFE means your luggage will not be searched. This is done by getting a skycap and asking him who the JEFE of customs is. You palm propino shake hands with JEFE and introduce yourself he will palm your propino and you are on your way. My luggage has never been searched on the way in.

On the way out it is impossible to bribe effectively because the government is paid by the US Government to search your luggage after you check it. I have been escorted to customs on the way out more then once by a soldier with a machine gun to explain what was in my suitcase,

If a gringo is driving a rental car there are places were traffic willl be bottle necked by police department. If you are gringo odds are the cop will find some reason to detain you until you give up and pay him a propino.

So in short you can propino your way into anything in the DR just figure out who is the one that can do the job or else you get on the propino treadmill

For those of you who have been there.

Any tips once your actually there?

As far as yes to printing the voucher and bring it to check it? Anyway around waiting a few hours for the check in process some reviews were 2hr wait to 16hr wait.....
We were checked in immediately
Do the timeshare tour to get vouchers for some of the specialty restaurants which seem to be the Italian, Mexican, sushi, steakhouse?
You must reserve the restaurant by 1 PM THE DAY BEFORE you want to eat there. Unless something has changed you get very little for the timeshare tour and they will keep you forever; forget that they say 45 minutes figure at least 4 hours. Sushi is available on the VIP beach. You can watch it being made under very clean conditions.

Otherwise what does the vip get us as there are a few vip colored bracelets just access to the beach beds and beach bar but otherwise only food you get is at 1 buffet?
VIP beach has the sushi bar and great beach food (excellent chicken wings and nachos) Better waitress service than other places. Bring lots of dollar bills to use as tips while you are there.. it also has the free wifi and IMO the best place to spend the day. Champagne as you enter. People line up for the opening everyday to get a great spot there is also an evening VIP party that is nice
Thanks for any other tips lots of good reviews cant wait to go!

Am i the only one who can't select dates to check availability?

Am i the only one who can't select dates to check availability?

what dates?
everything appears to be working

I really appreciate the comments darben. Question on specific amount for tipping at customs and other activities in the DR. Is $5 appropriate? I'm assuming a $1 tip per drink gets you excellent service... I'm not new to the concept, my father lives in Zambia and for the right amount of money almost anything goes there.

Darn, only see $24/night cheapest now. But most are $48

I really appreciate the comments darben. Question on specific amount for tipping at customs and other activities in the DR. Is $5 appropriate? I'm assuming a $1 tip per drink gets you excellent service... I'm not new to the concept, my father lives in Zambia and for the right amount of money almost anything goes there.

one dollar per service
If they bring your party a round of drinks and food 1 buck for all in that service. the average Dominican makes about 35 - 40 dollars a week. Most people do not tip.

most likely they have to split with someone above them.

Darn, only see $24/night cheapest now. But most are $48

it has always been 12 per night per person = 24 per night and I still see availability.

48 per night = $24 per person per night for Travel Jan 3 - April 30

as in my previous post

I'll be there Aug 24-31 with 9 friends if anyone else has their dates locked down. We'll be the big group of 20 somethings, mostly guys, having a blast!

Yea I finally clicked the right thing. But prices seem to have gone up.

for those going who do not regularly travel to third world countries I recommend the following article

http://travel.usatoday.com/destinations/story/2012-01-27/Security-warning-Crime-at-Dominican-Republic-airports/52816750/1

for those going who do not regularly travel to third world countries I recommend the following article

http://travel.usatoday.com/destinations/story/2012-01-27/Security-warning-Crime-at-Dominican-Republic-airports/52816750/1

Pretty "scare tactic" style written article. If I was a Dominican and read an article someone wrote about NYC or LA that had just inserted all of the murders and crimes and safety tips of the cities, I would think the Dominican was pretty tame... Just saying.
Yes, exercise caution & common sense as in any big city, no, don't panic.

Pretty "scare tactic" style written article. If I was a Dominican and read an article someone wrote about NYC or LA that had just inserted all of the murders and crimes and safety tips of the cities, I would think the Dominican was pretty tame... Just saying.
Yes, exercise caution & common sense as in any big city, no, don't panic.

+1

My in-laws refuse to allow any cruise planning to include cozumel because of the "drug wars".

yea, I won't go to Las Vegas because of that crime show based there, plus there were some mob movies about the place. Its just safer at home in bed and driving to work.

My post was for those not familiar with travel to third world countries.
Those familiar understand the risk.
For instance using the facility supplied transfers. Not going walking at night in areas not 100% known to you.
People leave home and tend to get stupid.
While there are areas in most home towns that intelligent people avoid; these same people will go to a foreign country and get .... faced then walk around in undesirable neighborhoods or get involved with shady people.

IN DR you have no rights and have no police protection that is the point I am trying to make I guess. But you have money and there are certain people who want your money and will take it anyway they can get it.

For those who signed up for this deal who are weary about their safety in the DR ..... here are a couple of recomendations:

First - Call cheap carribean and add the airport transfers if you didn't book them before. Cabs are fine, best if you speak some Spanish, but the Cheap Carribean transfer is reasonably priced (assuming you are flying into POP) and it takes all the risk of a bad cab driver away.

Second - Be careful about leaving the resort. Daytime is better than night, and quite honestly ... you never really need to leave. Pre-purchased excursions are safe. If you aren't comfortable, don't take a cab into town for dinner or shopping. I know this will make your experience less authentic but you should not put yourself in a situation where you are not comfortable.

Do yourself a favor - look out the window on the drive to the resort, see how the locals live, where they shop, what their lives are like. On my trip in 75% on the bus never opened their window shades or looked out. Also, interact with the staff at the resort, they are good people and may be one of your best windows to Dominican culture.

I also won't bring an expensive camera, I won't bring a fancy watch. I will be aware of my surroundings.

Lets be honest, most who book this deal want the tropical drinks, the beach, the food ... they are looking for a relaxing time at a beautiful resort. Not many looked at this deal and thought, here is a chance to see the real DR. And there is nothing wrong with that.

And Bring your $1 bills!!!! Plan to spend 5-10 a day on tips for your party.

yea, I won't go to Las Vegas because of that crime show based there, plus there were some mob movies about the place. Its just safer at home in bed and driving to work.

True story, one of my friends who was only 20 years old at the time was in Vegas and got street hustled for $100 at 3 card monte on the streets of Vegas. $100 minimum bet just SCREAMS scam to me! haha. It's completely his own fault for believing it wasn't a scam. When he told me I was like "You are an idiot!"... Then he asked me to make a $100 Roulette bet for him on black, and he won.. so I guess Karma came back to him.

My post was for those not familiar with travel to third world countries.
Those familiar understand the risk.
For instance using the facility supplied transfers. Not going walking at night in areas not 100% known to you.
People leave home and tend to get stupid.
While there are areas in most home towns that intelligent people avoid; these same people will go to a foreign country and get .... faced then walk around in undesirable neighborhoods or get involved with shady people.

IN DR you have no rights and have no police protection that is the point I am trying to make I guess. But you have money and there are certain people who want your money and will take it anyway they can get it.

Definitely... Sorry, I didn't mean to sound like I was mocking your post. It definitely is smart for people to know about the country. While the article is a little ridiculous, the DR is not for the average cruise ship customer that's for sure.

For those who signed up for this deal who are weary about their safety in the DR ..... here are a couple of recomendations:

First - Call cheap carribean and add the airport transfers if you didn't book them before. Cabs are fine, best if you speak some Spanish, but the Cheap Carribean transfer is reasonably priced (assuming you are flying into POP) and it takes all the risk of a bad cab driver away.

Second - Be careful about leaving the resort. Daytime is better than night, and quite honestly ... you never really need to leave. Pre-purchased excursions are safe. If you aren't comfortable, don't take a cab into town for dinner or shopping. I know this will make your experience less authentic but you should not put yourself in a situation where you are not comfortable.

Do yourself a favor - look out the window on the drive to the resort, see how the locals live, where they shop, what their lives are like. On my trip in 75% on the bus never opened their window shades or looked out. Also, interact with the staff at the resort, they are good people and may be one of your best windows to Dominican culture.

I also won't bring an expensive camera, I won't bring a fancy watch. I will be aware of my surroundings.

Lets be honest, most who book this deal want the tropical drinks, the beach, the food ... they are looking for a relaxing time at a beautiful resort. Not many looked at this deal and thought, here is a chance to see the real DR. And there is nothing wrong with that.

And Bring your $1 bills!!!! Plan to spend 5-10 a day on tips for your party.

Solid advice.
If you DO feel comfortable though, I highly recommend using any local DR guy whistling at you for a moto-taxi :)

For those who signed up for this deal who are weary about their safety in the DR ..... here are a couple of recomendations:

First - Call cheap carribean and add the airport transfers if you didn't book them before. Cabs are fine, best if you speak some Spanish, but the Cheap Carribean transfer is reasonably priced (assuming you are flying into POP) and it takes all the risk of a bad cab driver away.

Second - Be careful about leaving the resort. Daytime is better than night, and quite honestly ... you never really need to leave. Pre-purchased excursions are safe. If you aren't comfortable, don't take a cab into town for dinner or shopping. I know this will make your experience less authentic but you should not put yourself in a situation where you are not comfortable.

Do yourself a favor - look out the window on the drive to the resort, see how the locals live, where they shop, what their lives are like. On my trip in 75% on the bus never opened their window shades or looked out. Also, interact with the staff at the resort, they are good people and may be one of your best windows to Dominican culture.

I also won't bring an expensive camera, I won't bring a fancy watch. I will be aware of my surroundings.

Lets be honest, most who book this deal want the tropical drinks, the beach, the food ... they are looking for a relaxing time at a beautiful resort. Not many looked at this deal and thought, here is a chance to see the real DR. And there is nothing wrong with that.

And Bring your $1 bills!!!! Plan to spend 5-10 a day on tips for your party.

I don't know. About 12 years ago I traveled the island on the bus from Santo Domingo to Boca Chica to Santiago to Sosua to Puerto Plata, walking anywhere any time of the day or night and never even felt being in danger at any point. You might say I was just stupid and lucked out, but how do you explain hordes of expats from the US and Europe living there and being just fine? Have the things really deteriorated that badly?

Oh, and when I said I never felt being in danger, that's not entirely true. Those motoconcho people are crazy, and I sure as hell felt I was gonna die every time I got on that thing with them.

I don't know. About 12 years ago I traveled the island on the bus from Santo Domingo to Boca Chica to Santiago to Sosua to Puerto Plata, walking anywhere any time of the day or night and never even felt being in danger at any point. You might say I was just stupid and lucked out, but how do you explain hordes of expats from the US and Europe living there and being just fine? Have the things really deteriorated that badly?

Oh, and when I said I never felt being in danger, that's not entirely true. Those motoconcho people are crazy, and I sure as hell felt I was gonna die every time I got on that thing with them.

Everyone has different comfort levels. Most travelers never face violent crime.

This is not based on any facts, but I do not think of the DR as a home for lots of US/Europe ex-pats. When I think of ex-pats I think Costa Rica and Panama first.

As an ex-pat you have to learn what is safe and when, and probably speak spanish ... my advice is more for someone who doesn't speak spanish, not adventourous and won't have the time to invest on where to go and where not to go.

+1

My in-laws refuse to allow any cruise planning to include cozumel because of the "drug wars".

I spend a great deal of time in Cozumel and feel safer there than I do in many parts of Orange County, California where I live. Many of the ports that are visited by the cruisers in the Caribbean are not as safe as Cozumel. You are doing the people of Cozumel a disservice by scaring tourists away. I have been traveling to Cozumel for 28 years and have never had a problem. You must be getting this mixed up with Cancun city.

I have lived in the DR. But I learned spanish blended into the daily scene and there were places I never went as I felt them unsafe. My relative who also lived there and still does is more adventuresome. He has been mugged twice in Puerto Plata.

As with my home in the states there are places I do not go as there is an increased risk. But it is really bad in the DR
As the economy in the DR has gone down the amount of crime against gringos has climbed (people still have to eat).
No work = increased crime.

With most police on the take the likelihood that anything will be done if a tourist is involved in crime is ZERO. You will be sympathized with and promised the world but more than likely the cop holding your hand was in on the crime(they gotta eat too) or is on the take from the criminals who robbed you. You will leave they will still be a community.

Crime against tourists and expat has skyrocketed but is under reported

THE DR IS NOT SAFE if you are not aware and do not take precautions.

People will open your car door and take your possessions while you are in the car. The necessity of locking your doors while in a city cannot be over stressed.
Shady Cab drivers will take you out of the way and demand large sums to return you to civilization.
If your car window is down and you are wearing gold chains someone may reach into the car when you are stopped, punch you in the face and steal the chain

If you show wealth someone will try to take it. Will they succeed and will you ever know? Who knows.
I have many Dominican friends in the DR but I realize they are not honest and will steal from me so I do not give them the opportunity. No valuables are worn and no expensive cell phones, tablets or other goodies are ever displayed. My clothes are inexpensive, all of these reduce the risk to me.

I take nothing to the DR that I will miss WHEN stolen.

That is just the way it is. Will you experience a problem? Probably not IF you keep your guard up and make sure you are not a target.

NB It is no different on any other Caribbean island or other poor country in the world. In fact some parts of the U.S. are the same.

Will I go back heck yes

BE sure to try the local beer Presidente

The water?

I spend a great deal of time in Cozumel and feel safer there than I do in many parts of Orange County, California where I live. Many of the ports that are visited by the cruisers in the Caribbean are not as safe as Cozumel. You are doing the people of Cozumel a disservice by scaring tourists away. I have been traveling to Cozumel for 28 years and have never had a problem. You must be getting this mixed up with Cancun city.

If you read what I had quoted, it was in reference to scare tactics writing. "The whole world is dangerous except for the US." I'm trying to get my family to go to cozumel, but they unknowingly think it is a death trap.

The water?

Don't drink it (or drink as little as possible.)

You have bottled water in your room, and they have bottled water in 5 gallon jubs in the hallway to refill your bottles with. Use bottled water to brush your teeth too.

Now with that being said ..... you may have ice in your drink, a frozen drink, and the veggies you eat may be washed in non-bottled water.

With so much bottled water around, you are wise to consume as little as possible. They say it is safe, but trip advisor is full of people complaining of stomach bugs.

I didn't have a problem on my first visit, thanks to 2 things, I tried to minimize my water/ice consumption (think beer!!!) and I always travel with immodium.

There is guy named Elias who lives near POP and provides transport. I used him last year and will again this year. You can find his number and reports on TripAdvisor in the DR forum. He also does tours.

People are strongly advising against going to the waterfalls on Tripadvisor. Thoughts?

People are strongly advising against going to the waterfalls on Tripadvisor. Thoughts?
I would only strongly advise against people going to the waterfalls if it's the same day that I'm going there and having an absolute blast with the place all to myself... :)

However, primarily all of my travels are outdoor adventure travel focused, so I'm biased. I absolutely love it! That said, you should definitely be in shape, ready to sweat, ready to get dirty, and ready to jump 5ft-35ft cliff jumps into crystal clear blue water if you want to do the full 27 waterfall trip!
A smart traveler will take a taxi or public bus there for 1/5th the price of the packaged tours.
www.27charcos.com is the website of the place with full instructions and pictures.

On TripAdvisor People recommend taking a cab or taxi to the waterfall place? Anyone do this how much?

Also anyone just hire a guide for $12 and see all of them supposedly compared to the website above that is $350 for all 27 waterfalls

Would this be per person or one guide for a group looking for suggestions and the best deal so we aren't takin advantage of. I also think we would want to do the Gondola to the top of the mountain anyone do that and have info?

On TripAdvisor People recommend taking a cab or taxi to the waterfall place? Anyone do this how much?

Also anyone just hire a guide for $12 and see all of them supposedly compared to the website above that is $350 for all 27 waterfalls

Would this be per person or one guide for a group looking for suggestions and the best deal so we aren't takin advantage of. I also think we would want to do the Gondola to the top of the mountain anyone do that and have info?

I've already mentioned the info about the 27 waterfalls in this thread at least twice, but the website is www.27charcos.com
The $350 price on the website is in DOMINICAN PESOS. That's only $9 USD, haha. That's for Dominicans though. You need to look at the "Extranjero" prices, and it's 500 pesos to do all 27 waterfalls which is only $13 USD. I did it in October, and it was fantastic.

You negotiate taxi prices on the spot, so your price can vary. For 3 of us we paid $40 TOTAL for a nice cab to take us there, wait 2 hours for us to do all 27 waterfalls, and take us back.

My post was for those not familiar with travel to third world countries.
Those familiar understand the risk.
For instance using the facility supplied transfers. Not going walking at night in areas not 100% known to you.
People leave home and tend to get stupid.
While there are areas in most home towns that intelligent people avoid; these same people will go to a foreign country and get .... faced then walk around in undesirable neighborhoods or get involved with shady people.

IN DR you have no rights and have no police protection that is the point I am trying to make I guess. But you have money and there are certain people who want your money and will take it anyway they can get it.

I agree, for some travelers it is best to advise caution, anywhere really. My in-laws who live in relaxed suburban neighborhood got pickpocked in a wealthy Paris neighborhood so u have to be careful and be aware.

That's quite a bit to remember considering my parents are in their 60 s and don't read FT...

Oy ! EXPO 09...I am also more than 64...I can read and remember...also as in we tried several times to meet during ORD LAX runs !

How is everyone planning on getting down there? Award flights seem to cost a lot considering it's only a 3+ hour flight. Any suggestions?

How is everyone planning on getting down there? Award flights seem to cost a lot considering it's only a 3+ hour flight. Any suggestions?

Depends where are you flying from. I booked an AA flight from JFK for BA Avios to Santiago for 20,000 miles. AA does fly direct to POP from here, but good luck finding a reward flight for it. Availability seems to be close to zero. From Santiago it's about an hour and a half drive to the resort, although I'm still on the fence about renting a car after reading all the warnings.

Depends where are you flying from. I booked an AA flight from JFK for BA Avios to Santiago for 20,000 miles. AA does fly direct to POP from here, but good luck finding a reward flight for it. Availability seems to be close to zero. From Santiago it's about an hour and a half drive to the resort, although I'm still on the fence about renting a car after reading all the warnings.

Consider taking a bus from Santiago to POP rather than renting a car. You can either take the Metro or Caribe bus. Take a cab from the airport to the bus station. The buses are very nice.

The VIP beach has call liquor which the other bars don't and also menu service.
Plan on getting to the VIP Beach early before it opens to snag one of the top beds.

Consider taking a bus from Santiago to POP rather than renting a car. You can either take the Metro or Caribe bus. Take a cab from the airport to the bus station. The buses are very nice.

The VIP beach has call liquor which the other bars don't and also menu service.
Plan on getting to the VIP Beach early before it opens to snag one of the top beds.

I know, but it's such a pain! Cab into town, then bus into POP, then another cab to the resort, and same headache for the return! Maybe it's worth it to get someone drive us down there. Thanks for the tips.

Found some interesting rules regarding driving in DR. I especially enjoyed rules 1-6.

http://www.hispaniola.com/dominican_republic/info/transportation_road-kill.php

"#1. Use your horn a lot, for any reason or no reason at all. Blast the guy in front of you for stopping for a red light. In a traffic jam, lean on that horn and add all the racket you can to the general confusion. It won’t help one little bit, but you’ll have the satisfaction of making yourself heard (maybe); something like a child throwing a tantrum.

#2 Always drive at top speed. Patience is a sign of weakness.

#3. If there is a vehicle in front of you, pass it. It doesn’t matter if you have to go around it, over it, under it, or through it; you must get in front of it. Even if you are a guagua driver and you are going to pull over and stop as soon as you have passed the other vehicle.

#4. If you are a male driver, never let a female driver pass you. A real man can’t put up with that kind of nonsense.

#5. Don’t make left turns. The driver behind you will try to pass on your left while you are doing it, because God forbid he should have to slow down or stop while you make your turn. Pull over to the right and wait until the road is clear for five miles in either direction before you turn; OR, get into the wrong lane half a mile before your turn and make your left from there.

#6. If the driver ahead of you is making a left turn, ram him."

More driving in the DR.
For those of you thinking of Santiago and then renting a car. DO NOT DO IT unless you are prepared for the worst.
A) The contract will probably be only in Spanish so hopefully you know the language
B) Your CC auto insurance is probably not valid
C) If you get in an accident it will be your fault
D) In the event of accident the police will probably haul you off to jail until the damages are paid for.
E) In the event you purchase insurance from the car rental company you will still wait in jail until the damages are paid in full. Whether 1 hour or days
F) Except for a few main roads most roads are unsafe to drive at night.
G) There is no stigma against drunk driving so at night most are.

H) Car rental companies have been known to give out unregistered cars to tourists. If you are stopped the car is confiscated until fine paid or bribe given.

I) Police will pull you over and expect a bribe or take you to jail. There really is no such thing as giving a ticket it is either bribe or jail your choice.

Flying into POP while more expense is actually a better buy. No hassle specially if you buy the resort transfer. I bet no more than $20 - 25 PP more once everything is considered

Flying into Santiago and getting a bus is not much better.
A) get a taxi to bus station at rates that would do well in NYC
B) take bus to POP area.
C) Take taxi to resort. Another opportunity to get ripped off.

Yes you are a target and your money is what everyone is after.

Safest and cheapest bet is POP and resort transfer stay away from the locals in a business transaction they NEED to rip you off.

I lived near the resort and I speak from experience of being taken on more than one occasion. I have also stayed at the resort

More driving in the DR.
For those of you thinking of Santiago and then renting a car. DO NOT DO IT unless you are prepared for the worst.
A) The contract will probably be only in Spanish so hopefully you know the language
B) Your CC auto insurance is probably not valid
C) If you get in an accident it will be your fault
D) In the event of accident the police will probably haul you off to jail until the damages are paid for.
E) In the event you purchase insurance from the car rental company you will still wait in jail until the damages are paid in full. Whether 1 hour or days
F) Except for a few main roads most roads are unsafe to drive at night.
G) There is no stigma against drunk driving so at night most are.

H) Car rental companies have been known to give out unregistered cars to tourists. If you are stopped the car is confiscated until fine paid or bribe given.

I) Police will pull you over and expect a bribe or take you to jail. There really is no such thing as giving a ticket it is either bribe or jail your choice.

Flying into POP while more expense is actually a better buy. No hassle specially if you buy the resort transfer. I bet no more than $20 - 25 PP more once everything is considered

Flying into Santiago and getting a bus is not much better.
A) get a taxi to bus station at rates that would do well in NYC
B) take bus to POP area.
C) Take taxi to resort. Another opportunity to get ripped off.

Yes you are a target and your money is what everyone is after.

Safest and cheapest bet is POP and resort transfer stay away from the locals in a business transaction they NEED to rip you off.

I lived near the resort and I speak from experience of being taken on more than one occasion. I have also stayed at the resort

:eek: Is the drunk driving/car rental ploy from personal experience also? Sounds like a terrible experience. :eek:

:eek: Is the drunk driving/car rental ploy from personal experience also? Sounds like a terrible experience. :eek:

Sort of personal. My cousin also lives in DR, his father in law was killed by a drunk driver. My cousin had to go pick up the body from the side of the road where the police had left it. He then had to take it to his mother in laws house. He then purchased a casket and family friends put body in it. Then he drove truck with body 3 hours to father in laws home town to be buried.

With the car rental I had my car confiscated for bad tail light and while waiting to pay the bribe (propino) I talked with a tourist girl at the police impound who had been waiting 6 hours for the car rental company to bring her another car as her rental car was impounded for no license (actually a little sticker on windshield) plates are no indication car is legally registered.
In addition cars are often repaired in a shoddy manner with parts left out (airbags primarily).

Sort of personal. My cousin also lives in DR, his father in law was killed by a drunk driver. My cousin had to go pick up the body from the side of the road where the police had left it. He then had to take it to his mother in laws house. He then purchased a casket and family friends put body in it. Then he drove truck with body 3 hours to father in laws home town to be buried.

With the car rental I had my car confiscated for bad tail light and while waiting to pay the bribe (propino) I talked with a tourist girl at the police impound who had been waiting 6 hours for the car rental company to bring her another car as her rental car was impounded for no license (actually a little sticker on windshield) plates are no indication car is legally registered.
In addition cars are often repaired in a shoddy manner with parts left out (airbags primarily).

I'm sorry about your cousin's father-in-law. That's very sad to hear.

The bribes and "back door" issues sound similar to the ones in Asia, actually.

It doesn't sound like NRT, ICN, or HKG.....
I'm sorry about your cousin's father-in-law. That's very sad to hear.

The bribes and "back door" issues sound similar to the ones in Asia, actually.

Surely, NRT, ICN, or HKG cannot represent all of Asia?

Sleazy dealings can happen anywhere. It reminded me of an incidence that occurred; that is not to say that one should not travel to Santiago/Asia or that all people from a place are not to be trusted.

Merely, being aware and staying safe is paramount, especially if there is a language/cultural barrier/one can easily be identified as a tourist.



Have fun and stay safe for those who were able to take advantage of this deal.

Surely, NRT, ICN, or HKG cannot represent all of Asia?

Sleazy dealings can happen anywhere. It reminded me of an incidence that occurred; that is not to say that one should not travel to Santiago/Asia or that all people from a place are not to be trusted.

Merely, being aware and staying safe is paramount, especially if there is a language/cultural barrier/one can easily be identified as a tourist.



Have fun and stay safe for those who were able to take advantage of this deal.

And above all remember Your not in Kansas anymore and your rights as a U.S. citizen stop at our border.

How's everyone's trips been lately?

More bad reviews it seems lately on TA.

We have an idea on the sites and tours we want to do but what are your recommendations for food if we don't want to eat the buffet etc at resort

Any local restaurants really worth walking or venturing out to ?

How's everyone's trips been lately?

More bad reviews it seems lately on TA.

We have an idea on the sites and tours we want to do but what are your recommendations for food if we don't want to eat the buffet etc at resort

Any local restaurants really worth walking or venturing out to ?

There aren't really any restaurants right outside. The food is not that bad at Lifestyles. What get's a lot of people sick is they overdo the coconut drinks.
Eat at the Chinese restaurant, the VIP beach and the breakfast at the main buffet. Not sure which tours you are going on. Avoid the 24 falls.
If you do want to go to POP on the cheap walk out to the main road and get a publico or guagua for about 25-40 pesos and go to the POP central square.
Or change at POP for a Rio San Juan car to go to the bay in Sosua for snorkeling and a nice bay for anther 40-45 pesos.

There aren't really any restaurants right outside. The food is not that bad at Lifestyles. What get's a lot of people sick is they overdo the coconut drinks.
Eat at the Chinese restaurant, the VIP beach and the breakfast at the main buffet. Not sure which tours you are going on. Avoid the 24 falls.
If you do want to go to POP on the cheap walk out to the main road and get a publico or guagua for about 25-40 pesos and go to the POP central square.
Or change at POP for a Rio San Juan car to go to the bay in Sosua for snorkeling and a nice bay for anther 40-45 pesos.

Judging by TA reviews it does seem things have gone downhill at the Lifestyle lately. And not only that, my family members have gotten back recently with one lady having severe abdominal problems, that persist even now two weeks after she returned. Everyone else in their party was OK, though, but so many "bad food" reviews could not possibly be a coincidence. After paying over $2,000 for a week (albeight in a presidential suite) it had to particuarly suck!

In regard to coconut milk, I'm sorry, but I don't buy it. Everyone overdoes umbrella drinks in the Caribbean, so I seriously doubt, Lifestyle patrons indulge on cocktails that much more than other vacationers elsewhere in the region.

Also, why not do the falls? I was kind of looking forward to going there.

Thanks for the info guys

Thinking the same things breakfast at buffet, lunch on vip beach, hopefully a few nights at their restaurants


The waterfalls from my reading people are strongly for it against it. What I can gather is it's dangerous to some degree you can choose how high you go etc 1-7 or 1-27 all the falls. It is for the adventure seeker, you will get dirty, sweaty, maybe cuts/ bruises? Be prepared to jump 5-35 feet maybe more. I will be there probably leave the two not so adventurist's women at the bottom and go with the other in our group of 4 does that sound reasonable or do we all need to be together at all time? I'm looking at water shoes as they recommend there is some jungle trail walking etc
www.27charcos.com

Have Fun everyone less than a month to go !

There aren't really any restaurants right outside. The food is not that bad at Lifestyles. What get's a lot of people sick is they overdo the coconut drinks.
Eat at the Chinese restaurant, the VIP beach and the breakfast at the main buffet. Not sure which tours you are going on. Avoid the 24 falls.
If you do want to go to POP on the cheap walk out to the main road and get a publico or guagua for about 25-40 pesos and go to the POP central square.
Or change at POP for a Rio San Juan car to go to the bay in Sosua for snorkeling and a nice bay for anther 40-45 pesos.

It's 27 waterfalls and I would highly recommend it for the outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. I did it last year and am stoked to do it this year. Granted, I am 23, fit, and generally only go to countries like this for these types of adventures.



Also, why not do the falls? I was kind of looking forward to going there.

If you're looking forward to them then go!! It's a blast. Make sure you just go there without a tour so you actually do all 27. Tour groups only do the first 7.





The waterfalls from my reading people are strongly for it against it. What I can gather is it's dangerous to some degree you can choose how high you go etc 1-7 or 1-27 all the falls. It is for the adventure seeker, you will get dirty, sweaty, maybe cuts/ bruises? Be prepared to jump 5-35 feet maybe more. I will be there probably leave the two not so adventurist's women at the bottom and go with the other in our group of 4 does that sound reasonable or do we all need to be together at all time? I'm looking at water shoes as they recommend there is some jungle trail walking etc
www.27charcos.com

Have Fun everyone less than a month to go !
Your non adventurours friends can wait for you. They have snacks at the bottom.
I went last year and did all 27. Water shoes are a good idea especially if you do all 27 bc you do have to hike to the top (30-40 min). The highest jump is 30-35 ft and then the 2nd highest is only 20. This trip is 10x more legit than some adventure caves and cliff jumping I did in Guatemala recently. Don't be scared, have fun!!

I'm returning in August. Going to knockout some of the Iguana Mama canyoning trips and more rafting, canyoning, & waterfalls through Rancho Baiguate before I hit the AI resort. Google those companies for the thrill seekers out there.

Don't believe me?
Here's my pictures from doing the 27 waterfalls and whitewater rafting last Oct. Did the falls with 2 friends who are a middle aged couple that have never done anything like this and I also took him rafting for his first time.
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150528530157425.431306.504372424&type=3&l=ae9301c24b

Do not do the waterfalls because;
The safety standards are not up to U.S. standards. In case of accident it can literally hours to the hospital, which is not up to U.S. standards and will demand payment before services rendered. The x-rays taken may not be diagnostic, the drugs you purchase at the drug store may be fake (hospital does not dispense), the instruments may not be sterile (no government oversight) and your broken bone may not be set correctly or your concussion missed.

If you are willing to take all these risks then by all means go. Let me know how it works out for you if you get hurt.

Eating disorders.

Eat at the VIP beach and eat HOT FOOD ONLY. For breakfast no fresh fruit(unless you can peel it safely) eat HOT FOOD ONLY preferably just made for you such as the omelet area. Drink bottled water and beverages only and be sure to Check the bottle caps on water and soda pop to make sure it has not been refilled. Refilling is a common occurrence in the DR. Not necessarily at the hotel but who knows. Street vendors and some stores will commonly refill both water and soda pop bottles to save money.

I thought I would post my experience at LifeStyles to help those who might stay here.

A family member of mine bought a time share here and in July I went down with most of my extended family. I was staying in one of the Villas and was a gold band VIP. I don't think I would ever return here even if my life depended on it. The vila its self was pretty nice although my bedroom was nothing better then a room you could find in a decent hotel like a Crowne Plaza. I'm in my mid twenties so I was hoping for a lot of night life, or even late night dining offerings. There are a lot of beaches that I had access to although since its on the Atlantic side the water is nothing special. The beach beds seem a little bit gross to me personally. I don't even remember the names of the beaches, but I spent a lot of my time at the one with the ice cream shop. There was only one bar with any kind of decent liquor by the check in building. That was the only place I ever found grey goose vodka. Part of my package included bottle service in the villa where we got Stoli as the top shelf liquor. I ordered Johnny Walker black and was given red. I never found black label anywhere there. Although you could get Jack Daniels. The rest of the "top shelf" liquor was pretty poor. The food was okay and just okay. By day 3 I was ready to leave. I got sick from day 2 on. It wasn't that bad but I did have runs basically the entire time. Luckily we had a golf cart so we could drive everywhere but I believe you only get one in the villas and without one you would be doing a lot of walking. I know this is kind of jumbled I'm just trying to recount what I can remember about it. The best food I had was CO when I flew first class to and from Porta Plata from EWR.

The night life there is non existent they have one night club which usually had about 10 people in it. The only food service was the Blue Lagoon late at night and those offerings were gross to say the least. The resort has dogs running around all over it, and the one that followed us around even didn't eat some of the food we gave it from the Blue Lagoon late night buffet. The best dining option I found after 11 at that place was the popcorn machine at the sports bar....that doesnt say very much.

I don't think I'd ever go here again is the bottom line.

Edit about the safety. Since that seems to be the concern in this thread, not the resort itself I can't say to much the surrounding area since I was such a "vip" (haha) I was flown to and from the airport aboard the lifestyles helicopter. That in itself was a safety concern. To that point I'd only been in 2 other helicopters both were bell helicopters this was more like a kit helicopter. The pilot was an American who had plenty of flight experience, but I still wasn't to thrilled about the helicopter. I never left the resort aside from one night to go the casino where I was taken on a bus and never felt unsafe. One night a buddy and I went out to one of the further beaches there was a security guard who seemed to appear out of nowhere and said he was going to be there all night, although he was only armed with a baton. I would say inside the resort you are pretty safe.

Canceling my gf and I's reservations. My friends already did, parents will probably be doing the same. Too many recent negative reviews to not cancel. Now I just gotta figure out where to go instead...

Wow... I suppose everyone has their own opinions with different expectations & experiences... Keep canceling your reservations so my 9 friends and I have that much more of the place to ourselves in August. Believe it or not this is our return trip bc we had so much fun and received so much value last time.

IMO - if you stay on a tropical island in a 3rd world country, diarrhea shouldn't be much of a surprise especially if you paid $12 a night.

[/QUOTE]Drink bottled water and beverages only and be sure to Check the bottle caps on water and soda pop to make sure it has not been refilled. Refilling is a common occurrence in the DR. Not necessarily at the hotel but who knows. Street vendors and some stores will commonly refill both water and soda pop bottles to save money.[/QUOTE]


Refilling is not a common occurence in the DR. Just not true. You can get bottled water and bottled sodas at all the bars and in the restaurant.
The ice at the hotel is from bottled water. There is call liquor at the
VIP beach bar.

The fruit smoothies they make fresh in the morning are really good.

Canceling my gf and I's reservations. My friends already did, parents will probably be doing the same. Too many recent negative reviews to not cancel. Now I just gotta figure out where to go instead...

Been to Mexico more than a few times in the past on the east coast even up thru Chetumal and over to Merida where we had the best Mexican food I ever had at a Sunday brunch at a high end hotel which has prob changed names it was more than 10 years ago. I got sick in Akumal with ceviche and she didnt with salad. Go figure. Tamarindo beach or Arenal Tabacon in Costa Rica might be nice. But we had a relative there at the time. A while ago.

Refilling is not a common occurence in the DR. Just not true. You can get bottled water and bottled sodas at all the bars and in the restaurant.
The ice at the hotel is from bottled water. There is call liquor at the
VIP beach bar.

The fruit smoothies they make fresh in the morning are really good.

Yeah, people are just getting ridiculous. More room for us at the resort I guess :)

For the 4-5 star, first/business class people - this place is not for you. For the Coach flying, Red Roof Inn, & Adventure seekers, you'll be in Heaven ;-)

Yeah, people are just getting ridiculous. More room for us at the resort I guess :)

For the 4-5 star, first/business class people - this place is not for you. For the Coach flying, Red Roof Inn, & Adventure seekers, you'll be in Heaven ;-)

Exactly. Hanging out on one of the top level beach beds there, priceless.

Wow... I suppose everyone has their own opinions with different expectations & experiences... Keep canceling your reservations so my 9 friends and I have that much more of the place to ourselves in August. Believe it or not this is our return trip bc we had so much fun and received so much value last time.

IMO - if you stay on a tropical island in a 3rd world country, diarrhea shouldn't be much of a surprise especially if you paid $12 a night.

If I were going with my buddies it'd be different. We're low maintenance and can have a solid time regardless of the service, food, quality, etc. Not to say that's not the same with my gf and I, but this will be my first vacation with her and even though she recently did volunteer work in DR and wouldn't be expecting the American standards for food, water, sewage, etc., I still want it to go as smoothly as possible.

I would love to go there eventually and hit the 27 charcos though.

Drink bottled water and beverages only and be sure to Check the bottle caps on water and soda pop to make sure it has not been refilled. Refilling is a common occurrence in the DR. Not necessarily at the hotel but who knows. Street vendors and some stores will commonly refill both water and soda pop bottles to save money.[/QUOTE]


Refilling is not a common occurence in the DR. Just not true. You can get bottled water and bottled sodas at all the bars and in the restaurant.
The ice at the hotel is from bottled water. There is call liquor at the
VIP beach bar.

The fruit smoothies they make fresh in the morning are really good.[/QUOTE]

Okay I bow to your knowledge but I lived in the DR and it is a common occurrence from street vendors and colmados. The smoothies may be good but the person making them may be sick or not sanitary. SO if you get the trots ----.
As far as the ice being from bottled water. HUH

REMEMBER YOU ARE NOT IN THE USA ANYMORE SO NO ONE HAS YOUR BACK. YOU MUST PROTECT YOURSELF.

Exactly. Hanging out on one of the top level beach beds there, priceless.

So good!!!

If I were going with my buddies it'd be different. We're low maintenance and can have a solid time regardless of the service, food, quality, etc. Not to say that's not the same with my gf and I, but this will be my first vacation with her and even though she recently did volunteer work in DR and wouldn't be expecting the American standards for food, water, sewage, etc., I still want it to go as smoothly as possible.

I would love to go there eventually and hit the 27 charcos though.

That makes sense I guess. At the same time, it sounds like she has plenty of experience in the DR so nothing would surprise her.

Drink bottled water and beverages only and be sure to Check the bottle caps on water and soda pop to make sure it has not been refilled. Refilling is a common occurrence in the DR. Not necessarily at the hotel but who knows. Street vendors and some stores will commonly refill both water and soda pop bottles to save money.


Refilling is not a common occurence in the DR. Just not true. You can get bottled water and bottled sodas at all the bars and in the restaurant.
The ice at the hotel is from bottled water. There is call liquor at the
VIP beach bar.

The fruit smoothies they make fresh in the morning are really good.[/QUOTE]

Okay I bow to your knowledge but I lived in the DR and it is a common occurrence from street vendors and colmados. The smoothies may be good but the person making them may be sick or not sanitary. SO if you get the trots ----.
As far as the ice being from bottled water. HUH

REMEMBER YOU ARE NOT IN THE USA ANYMORE SO NO ONE HAS YOUR BACK. YOU MUST PROTECT YOURSELF.[/QUOTE]

Well, I don't think they make it out of bottle water, but for what it's worth I spoke with a few American expats in DR and they insist that commercial ice is plentiful and cheap in DR so there is no reason for them to make it out of tap water.

Don't believe me?
Here's my pictures from doing the 27 waterfalls and whitewater rafting last Oct. Did the falls with 2 friends who are a middle aged couple that have never done anything like this and I also took him rafting for his first time.
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150528530157425.431306.504372424&type=3&l=ae9301c24b[/QUOTE]


Thank you very much for these!!

I was quite worried about this excursion but your pictures really show how awesome it looks and not as horrifying some may think ! So excited for this now looks like so much fun


Do you guys have any leads on a jet ski rental or a quad rental near the resort or by the aquarium and those beaches maybe ? Also any good golf courses would love to go to playa grande but worried the cab ride will be big $$ since its so far

thanks again everyone

Thank you very much for these!!

I was quite worried about this excursion but your pictures really show how awesome it looks and not as horrifying some may think ! So excited for this now looks like so much fun


Do you guys have any leads on a jet ski rental or a quad rental near the resort or by the aquarium and those beaches maybe ? Also any good golf courses would love to go to playa grande but worried the cab ride will be big $$ since its so far

thanks again everyone

Favorite 2 pics from the 27 charcos:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150528530597425&l=2fceb29574
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150528531277425&l=7713e95336

GO WILD! Don't miss out!

I live in the DR half the year. Today I had a bottled club soda which had not been opened previously. Ice Cubes come in bags just like in the states and are not made from tap water.

I personally wouldn't go to the 27 Falls because people have died there.
If you choose to go then just make sure when you go that it hasn't rained for several days prior.

I live in the DR half the year. Today I had a bottled club soda which had not been opened previously. Ice Cubes come in bags just like in the states and are not made from tap water.

I personally wouldn't go to the 27 Falls because people have died there.
If you choose to go then just make sure when you go that it hasn't rained for several days prior.

The point I was trying to make about refilling is in the DR you must check to make sure the seal is not broken. Specially if you shop in rural colmado's or buy from a street vendor. IN the states we take it for granted that the bottle has not been tampered with.
Ice is made from tap water at some places. I see ice machines in restaurants and bars in Cabarete and Sosua all the time. For anyone to think all restaurants use bagged ice from a source that is bacteria free is foolish. Since it cannot be assumed that all restaurants use bagged ice then it MUST be assumed the ice is not pure. Otherwise you set yourself up for turista.

The point of my cautionary tales is not to dissuade anyone from going (hell I live in Cabarete part of the year) and have stayed at the resort we are talking about (and loved it) but rather to make people THINK and not assume everything is up to US standards.

Most of the troubles I have seen tourists get into is when the tourists assume everything is the same as U.S.

That is the point of my warnings.

Just thought I'd reanimate this thread to see how others have done. I went with a friend, we had a great junior suite at Cofresi (second part of the resort) with a deep Jacuzzi and marble bath, the grounds were fantastic, the food was edible:) , the drinks were flowing freely, and we have not experienced any of the horrors of food poisoning described in some TA reviews. We flew into Santiago on BA miles, so it was almost a free vacation. All in all, I am still in disbelief that I got this quality vacation at $12 a day!

Sounds amazing. I just checked and rates are $29-39 a night. Do you think that is still good value based on your experience?

Any prediction if they will halve the price again? I really want to go in mid-late july now!

Sounds amazing. I just checked and rates are $29-39 a night. Do you think that is still good value based on your experience?

Any prediction if they will halve the price again? I really want to go in mid-late july now!
Where did you find those prices, and for what dates?

odd that they would raise the prices for the summer, usually the off season

Where did you find those prices, and for what dates?

usually cheapcaribbean.com (http://www.cheapcaribbean.com)

Where did you find those prices, and for what dates?

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/budget-travel/1346028-cheap-puerto-plata.html

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/budget-travel/1346028-cheap-puerto-plata.html

Why put the links in a new thread in a new forum?

Sounds amazing. I just checked and rates are $29-39 a night. Do you think that is still good value based on your experience?

Any prediction if they will halve the price again? I really want to go in mid-late july now!

Yes to both of your questions.

I think we got lucky getting a great room for that kind of money, but even if you get a lousy room, it would be still worth it. The grounds are absolutely top notch, and the VIP beach has covered beds and serves top shelf drinks. Other bars still make great drinks even with local liqueurs, and every bar serves Presidente which is a great beer. They also run two great parties on Thursday and Sunday nights.

There are two negatives: bland food and aggressive timeshare people. Neither was a problem to me. Just be prepared.

From what I've noticed CC runs similar promos about twice a year, but I don't remember anything as cheap as $12. You could sign up for their lists but get ready for a lot of spam.

July in DR is brutal, though. Think twice if you really want that kind of heat.

I just noticed on another forum you're considering using BA miles. I don't know where you're flying from, but I have never been able to find Avios from New York to POP. I had to fly into STI and take transfer from there. About 2hrs drive and $100 each way.

Yes to both of your questions.

I think we got lucky getting a great room for that kind of money, but even if you get a lousy room, it would be still worth it. The grounds are absolutely top notch, and the VIP beach has covered beds and serves top shelf drinks. Other bars still make great drinks even with local liqueurs, and every bar serves Presidente which is a great beer. They also run two great parties on Thursday and Sunday nights.

There are two negatives: bland food and aggressive timeshare people. Neither was a problem to me. Just be prepared.

From what I've noticed CC runs similar promos about twice a year, but I don't remember anything as cheap as $12. You could sign up for their lists but get ready for a lot of spam.

July in DR is brutal, though. Think twice if you really want that kind of heat.

I just noticed on another forum you're considering using BA miles. I don't know where you're flying from, but I have never been able to find Avios from New York to POP. I had to fly into STI and take transfer from there. About 2hrs drive and $100 each way.

Thanks for the tips! Much appreciated. I see availability in business JFK-SDQ for 20k avios, and read about a bus that travels to Punta Cana from Santo Domingo for U$10. Considering swinging that...

How brutal of a July are we talking? I was just in SE asia and it was pretty hot there. As long as there is AC in the room and a beach nearby I may be able to manage :)

Why put the links in a new thread in a new forum?

Because I was asking for help in the budget forum... but I guess people were too cheap to help :)

Thanks for the tips! Much appreciated. I see availability in business JFK-SDQ for 20k avios, and read about a bus that travels to Punta Cana from Santo Domingo for U$10. Considering swinging that...

How brutal of a July are we talking? I was just in SE asia and it was pretty hot there. As long as there is AC in the room and a beach nearby I may be able to manage :)

Because I was asking for help in the budget forum... but I guess people were too cheap to help :)

The average is 90+. I don't know how hard it is to withstand 'cause I've never been in the DR in summer, but Dominicans I spoke with did complain about July weather.

Also, I don't know if it was a typo, but if not, the resort is not in Punta Cana. It's in Puerto Plata, in the north, all the way across the country. Did you look into the flights into Santiago? That would cut your ground travel time roughly in half.

One more thing: the flight from NYC is just a tad over 3 hrs. The 20K Avios in business you saw is justfor one way, wouldn't be worth it to me.

solid advice. thanks a bunch. back to the drawing board :)

This is back on sale, but for $24/person/night. Still a great price. It says it will end Sunday at midnight, but often gets extended. Or it will come back later.

My review of the trip is here. (http://travelscrounger.com/2012/12/31/dominican-trip-report/)

Bookable here. (http://www.cheapcaribbean.com/landing-pages/1615.html?utm_source=SilverpopMailing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20130130_DEALLIST_2Day24ResortSale_On eBox_Banner_Wednesday%20(2)&utm_content=20100111_sherm_trav_shewpnlin_ntwk;+sh erm&cyEmail=playset32@yahoo.com&spMailingID=15118664&spUserID=NDg3OTE5MjUxOAS2&spJobID=210931700&spReportId=MjEwOTMxNzAwS0)

That's quite a bit to remember considering my parents are in their 60 s and don't read FT...

I am 62 and you probably have a printer

+1 (always havin' to teach the young ones in the modern ways)

This sounded interesting. The room prices sound good. But trying to find award tickets from Toronto, Aeropeso is not showing a lot of availability, especially coming back from POP to YYZ. It also requires 80k points for 2 persons, or 160k for family of 4.

It might just be as much as buying an AI package that includes airfare, from yyz.

This sounded interesting. The room prices sound good. But trying to find award tickets from Toronto, Aeropeso is not showing a lot of availability, especially coming back from POP to YYZ. It also requires 80k points for 2 persons, or 160k for family of 4.

It might just be as much as buying an AI package that includes airfare, from yyz.

Buf probably cheaper even if you factor in a stay aand fly package at a hotel near airport

Just use your Avios to fly to Santiago. From there, it's a 2-hr drive and $100. For your reference, yes, it's only 30 minutes from POP but the cab's still gonna cost you $50. I also noticed that their website promises to put you in a Junior Suite. If so, it's an awesome bargain; their JS-s are huge, with a great bath and a Jacuzzi, at least in Cofresi. They put us in JS back when it was $12, but we just got lucky back then.

Do NOT buy a timeshare!

Do NOT buy a timeshare!

Completely agree! While I haven't even gone to a presentation in my three stays, I can say that I talked to a lot of people who bought and were very unhappy.

Completely agree! While I haven't even gone to a presentation in my three stays, I can say that I talked to a lot of people who bought and were very unhappy.

Which time share was it and what were they un happy with...

we have several here in Australia

Which time share was it and what were they un happy with...

we have several here in Australia


The property in DR which is the subject of this thread.

Completely agree! While I haven't even gone to a presentation in my three stays, I can say that I talked to a lot of people who bought and were very unhappy.

Sure. After people sober up--literally--they usually are. I used to know a very sharp real estate guy who bought a TS in Mexico under the same circumstances. But he could actually afford it, so we had a lot of laugh about it. Unfortunately, most folks they are marketing them to, cannot. Just don't go to that presentation and stay safe.:D

is there any difference between Cofresi Palm Beach & Spa Resort and Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort & Spa?

Both are in Puerto Plata and $24 a night.

is there any difference between Cofresi Palm Beach & Spa Resort and Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort & Spa?

Both are in Puerto Plata and $24 a night.

Cofresi is about 200 yards west, but on the same beach. The rooms are nicer, but further away from the VIP Beach, volleyball, and the main pools/buffet.

I have a more detailed report here (http://travelscrounger.com/2012/12/31/dominican-trip-report/).

This deal is back on, as it has been in various incarnations for the last couple of years.

Question: plenty of dates for 2 people for a total daily of $48. But I'd be going by myself and one guest shows up at $90+ daily. Wondering if I could reserve for two and just tell them that the other person would be showing up a day or two later? Or maybe just check in while my significant is "outside".

I understand that they would rather have a couple there for purposes of peddling a timeshare.

Where did you find that deal popping up?

This deal is back on, as it has been in various incarnations for the last couple of years.

Question: plenty of dates for 2 people for a total daily of $48. But I'd be going by myself and one guest shows up at $90+ daily. Wondering if I could reserve for two and just tell them that the other person would be showing up a day or two later? Or maybe just check in while my significant is "outside".

I understand that they would rather have a couple there for purposes of peddling a timeshare.

OK, save yourself a lot of grief, and don't do that. They want COUPLES to sell timeshares. The moment you show up alone, you might see the ugly side of that beautiful resort. You might get away with this, but selling timeshares is the reason why they're offering this rate in the first place. You are worthless to them alone.

FYI: I was screwing around to see if I could save some $$$ by burning avios for this flight.

I found a MIA-POP in BIZ for 15k + $34 end of august

What struck me as strange is that the same ticket in economy is 15k + $78

Anyone aware of a Star Alliance carrier that flys from Miami to POP

Anyone aware of a Star Alliance carrier that flys from Miami to POP

The only airline that flies MIA to POP is American Airlines not star alliance

UA/CO flies EWR to POP

BA Avios also will get you from MIA to POP for relatively cheap award bookings