Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I verify your membership?

Yes.  You may contact LHVC Chairman's Circle Club customer service at (809) 970-7777 (international calling rates apply), Monday-Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. EST or email: csoffice1@chairmanscircleclub.com.  Our affiliate number is 0446.

2. Why are you able to pass along savings of up to 75% off resort booking prices?

We are Chairman’s Circle Club Affiliates at Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Club. Therefore, we are able to extend member privileges to vacationers whom we designate as our Special VIP Guests.  

3. In addition to savings, how are you able to offer privileged and exclusive access?

The Lifestyle Resorts are vacation club properties. As Chairman’s Circle Club Affiliates, we receive the highest priority regarding accommodations and restaurant reservations when we book with the Club.  We extend Special VIP Guest privileges to you, giving you access to designated VIP areas, beaches, restaurants and FREE round-trip airport transfers and more… things that the average guest visiting the resort will not have access to.

4. What are the All-Inclusive fees and are they mandatory?

The all-inclusive fees charged by the resort are mandatory and are paid directly to the Resort when you check in.  Please view our RATES page to view All-Inclusive per person pricing as they differ by accommodation type. 

5. Can you explain the reservation process?

After you have submitted your request to us via our "RESERVATIONS" page, we will check availability of your request with the resort.  This action typically takes 1-3 business days depending on time of year.  We'll then contact you with availability confirmation and pricing and/or with additional options.  If you would like to book the reservation, we’ll forward a contract to be signed and returned along with payment via PayPal or Venmo. Once payment is confirmed, we'll validate the booking with the resort and email you the final confirmation number along with information that you’ll need to know for your trip.   The entire process can take 5-7 days depending on how soon we receive payment.  

6. Do you take care of the entire booking process?

Yes, we take care of the entire resort booking process for the accommodation type that you are requesting. Again, the All-Inclusive fee is due and paid directly to the resort upon check in. Also, remember that you arrange your travel and all flights are at your own expense. Our goal is to facilitate a vacation that exceeds your expectations and we are available to answer all your questions throughout your trip.

7. When will I receive a reservation confirmation from the resort?

Please allow 3-5 days after receipt of your payment to receive your final confirmation number.

8. How long does the entire reservation process take, from initiation?

The entire process should take no more than one week depending on how soon we receive payment.

9. Are there any restrictions on check-in or check-out days and/or length of stay?

The Chairman’s Circle Club status allows us to offer year round vacation stays.  We do require a 4-night minimum length of stay and the lead guest on the reservation is required to be on resort in order for all guests to check in. Beyond that, there are no restrictions on the check in or check out day of the week.  As long as accommodations are available, we can obtain reservations for you.

10. How far in advance should I book?

The luxurious villas are always in high demand so we recommend that you book as soon as possible.  A good rule of thumb to apply is at least 3-6 months in advance for all accommodations and if interested in a holiday period, maybe up to a year in advance.  We suggest that you book well in advance to ensure that you receive the accommodation that you want, however, we are always happy to check availability for you, even at the last minute.

11. What documentation is required to enter the Dominican Republic?

All Americans traveling by air outside the United States are required to present a U.S. passport or other valid travel documents to enter or re-enter the United States.  We strongly encourage all American citizen travelers to apply for a U.S. passport well in advance of travel.  Visit travel.state.gov or call 1-877-4USA-PPT (1-877-487-2778) for current information on how to apply for a passport.   

**Disclaimer**:  Live The Lifestyle Vacations makes no express or implied guarantees with respect to documentation required for travel from your home country.  Please consult with the U.S. State Department or the appropriate Embassy based on your Nationality for the exact required documentation.

12. Do you have a refund or cancellation policy?

There is no refund for cancellations, no-shows or early departures.  However, if you find that you cannot make your original dates, we will allow you to make one date change to take place within the calendar year of your original arrival date.  We will make every effort to book the new dates for you based on resort availability.

14. Which airport should I fly into?

For Puerto Plata, the arrival airport and code is San Felipe de Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic - La Union airport code POP.  For Punta Cana, the arrival airport and code is Punta Cana, Dominican Republic airport code PUJ.  For Cancun, the arrival airport is Cancun Mexico airport code CUN.  You will ONLY receive complimentary transportation to/from the associated resort when arriving/departing the listed airports.

15. Should I make my flight arrangements after sending you my reservation request?

No.  Please wait until after you have received a resort confirmation number from us to book your travel.

16. What is the Check-In and Check-Out time for the Villas and Suites?

The check-in time is 3:00 p.m. and the Check-out time is 11:30 a.m.  Please remember that your unit may not always be available at the listed check-in time, so make yourself comfortable and have a drink or two while the resort prepares your room.  Please note that your bracelets must be returned during check-out; there is an additional charge for lost or damaged bracelets. 

17. Check-in is not until 3:00 pm, but what if I arrive at the resort earlier?

Although check-in is at 3:00 pm, in some cases, your accommodation may be ready prior to that time.  If not, you can still check into the resort, get your Gold VIP Bracelet and start your vacation.  With your Gold VIP Bracelet, you have access to all of the bars, restaurants and beaches immediately and can start soaking up the sun, sand and fun.  VIP Services will take care of your luggage until your accommodation is ready, so go and explore the resort.  

18. Can I stay in my accommodation later than check-out time?

Yes, however additional charges will apply.  Late check-out is requested during the check in process.  Late check out will be granted based upon availability and is only allowed until 3:00 p.m. when granted.  Rates vary per accommodation type and are charged by the hour.

19. My flight does not leave until late afternoon.  Can I enjoy the resort until I need to depart for my flight?

If you choose to remain at the resort past 3:00 p.m., you will incur a charge of $10.00 per hour, per person.  The final check out time is 6:00 p.m.

20. What are the fees for airport transportation?

As our Special VIP Guests, we arrange FREE airport transportation to/from the resort for flights arriving at POP, PUJ or CUN airports. However, should you fly into a different airport (e.g. Santiago - STI), you will be responsible for the arrangement and cost of your airport transfers.  Recently the cost for airport pick up from Santiago 6 people with luggage was approximately $175.00 US per van.

21. Do I need to arrange transportation to the resort?

No.  That is a FREE service that we provide to you as our Special VIP Guests.  We will require itineraries for all guests no later than 60 days before the first departure date.  We will then make all of the complimentary transportation arrangements to the resort.  If you do not provide complete itineraries in a timely manner, we cannot guarantee your transportation.

22. How will I know who is picking up my party up at the airport?

You will designate a Lead Guest.  Upon arrival at the airport and exit of the baggage claim area, you will look for a resort driver with Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Club identification.  This person should be readily identifiable because he/she will be holding a sign with the Lead Guest’s last name.  They will load your luggage and transport you to the resort.  Once there, ask to be directed to VIP Check-In.

23. Do you also take care of transportation back to the airport?

Yes,  as our Special VIP Guests, you will be afforded FREE transportation back to the airport and we take care of providing the resort with your departure details. However, it will be YOUR responsibility to confirm return airport transport with your concierge.  An extension to call will be provided to you upon arrival and you must confirm all arrangements no later than two days before scheduled departure.  If arrangements are not made within the timeframe, your complimentary transportation may not be guaranteed. 

24. Does the resort accept Credit Cards, MasterCard, Visa, American Express?

Yes.  The Excursion Center, Duty Free Shop, and other vendors on the resort accept all major credit cards but a surcharge may be assessed.  All credit cards are charged in Dominican Pesos.  Debit and credit cards may be used however, please contact your financial institution in advance to inform them of your travel and to notify them of foreign charges that may be applied to your debit card.  Please be aware that credit card usage may incur a Foreign Transaction Fee charge typically 3% of your total charges.  U.S. currency is also accepted.

25. Does Live The Lifestyle Vacations accept credit cards for accommodation payment?

No.  We don't take credit card payments directly.  We utilize PayPal for payment, where you can utilize your credit card or many different payment options.  We do charge a 5% service fee for PayPal services which is added to your rental rate.  As an alternative, we will accept payment via the Venmo app.  

26. Are there any hidden fees?

Nope!  Aside from the All-Inclusive fee and resort operational fee that you pay upon check in and the airfare that you will book on your own, the entire cost of your vacation is outlined in the contract that you sign with us.  That's it... there are no additional service fees or taxes added to our rates. Please note that all costs for Excursions outside of the resort are at your expense.

27. Are the Villa or Room rates per person?

No, our rates are based on accommodation type and length of stay only.  This cost can easily be shared among the number of people in your party to minimize individual costs.  However, keep in mind that the All-Inclusive fee is based on a per person, per night cost.  

28. How are the Villas assigned?

As Chairman Circle Club Affiliates of the Vacation Club, our requests have priority for the newest and best accommodations!! All villas are assigned based on the number of people in your vacationing party.  For example, if you have 12 people in your party, we will request for you and you will be assigned a 6-bedroom villa.  If for some reason a 6-bedroom villa is not available for your party when you arrive, the resort reserves the right to put your party in two 3-bedroom villas at no extra charge to you.  This is an excellent example of why it's important to book with Live The Lifestyle Vacations.  

30. Can I request a specific villa?

Villas are assigned just prior to your arrival at the resort and are based on current availability.  As Chairman Circle Club Affiliates, our requests are given top priority.  We can request a certain villa on your behalf; however, we can make no guarantee that you will receive that particular villa upon arrival.

31. Can I get a Villa on the Beach?

The beachfront villas are in high demand and short supply.  We cannot guarantee you a villa on the beach, as the resort will not guarantee us one.  However, we can request a villa on the beach for you.  As Chairman Circle Club Affiliates with the Club, our requests take priority.  Also, please remember that if you are assigned a villa that is not directly on the beach, you will still have your own private pool, as well as a golf cart to get to the beach easily.

32. Do all the villas have ocean views?

Not all but a few do. However, they are in high demand throughout the seasons.  Again, we cannot guarantee an ocean view villa or any accommodation with an ocean view but we can always request one for you.

33. If I book a villa and my party is only two people, will I have to share my villa?

Absolutely not! You will have your own private villa and it will likely have 3 bedrooms.

34. Are the pools of the villas truly private?

Yes, the pool is a private pool and it is exclusively for you.

35. Will I receive a golf cart with my rental?

Yes.  All of our guests staying in a VILLA will receive a golf cart at no additional charge.  For all other guests, door-to-door FREE VIP shuttle service is available to take you virtually anywhere within the resort.  And with nearly perfect weather all year long, walking is always a great option for those who are able and want to enjoy the beauty of the resort.

36. I have heard that when I stay in the villas breakfast can be prepared for me daily, is that true?

It IS true.  As our Special VIP Guests, you will automatically have breakfast prepared for you at your villa daily - at no additional charge.  Included in your daily breakfast are eggs, meats, cheeses, breads, fruits, and fresh juice. Just let the cook know what you want and they’ll try to accommodate the request.

37. If I do not stay in a villa, is the VIP service different?

Slightly.  The difference is that by staying in a non-villa accommodation, you will not receive a deliciously prepared breakfast each day.  In addition, you will not have a private pool or a golf cart for your stay.  However, even when you don't stay in a villa, you will still be our Special VIP Guests and have several restaurant options for breakfast.  You will still have access to all guest VIP areas of the resort and will be visited by a concierge to assist you and to ensure that your stay is enjoyable.

38. Is there Internet access on the property?

Free Wi-Fi is provided on various VIP beaches/locations throughout the resort. There are also two computers available to use in the Villa Reception lobby. You do have the option of purchasing daily Wi-Fi access for your accommodation. Inquire about cost during the check-in process or contact VIP Customer Service at any time during your stay.

39. Is Internet service available in the Villas/Rooms?

Wi-Fi is available at an additional cost and your VIP Customer Service Representative can provide cost details to you upon check in.  Remember, Wi-Fi access is located in various VIP areas throughout the resort.

40. Are laundry services available?

There are NO free laundry services available in any of the accommodations.  The resort does offer laundry services for a fee. There are laundry forms located in the closets in every accommodation and pricing/instructions will be displayed on these forms.

41. Does the resort offer child care services?

Yes, the resort does offer childcare for an additional cost.  This can be arranged at any time while at the resort.

42. Is there a safe available in the room?

Yes, safes are available for rental in each accommodation.  Keys are available upon request when you check-in at a nominal cost.  It's always wise to rent a safe to store your passports and valuables while you're off having the time of your life.

43. Does the resort have security?

Yes.  Security is stationed at the main entrance to the resort, as well as multiple locations throughout the resort. Your safety is a priority at the resort.

44. Do I need to bring a Power Adapter to the resort?

No, the resort uses the same power receptacles types as found in the United States.

45. Does the resort supply hair dryers and irons for guest use in all the accommodations?

Yes, each room is equipped with a hair dryer and iron.

46. Does the resort offer a crib and/or high chair for my baby?

Yes.  If you inform us of your requirement in advance, we will make the appropriate arrangements on your behalf.  You can also make the request yourself, once you arrive, with VIP Guest Services.  This is provided at no additional cost.

47. Are pets allowed?

Sorry but no pets are allowed on the resort property.

48. Do I need to bring beach towels?

No.  The resort supplies beach towels at the villas, pools and at the beach areas.

49. Is there a gym on the property?

Yes, there are two gyms on property, one at the main resort and another at the Executive Spa.

50. Is the water safe to drink?

All water supplied by the resort for dining is deemed safe to drink, including ice cubes. However, it is not recommended to drink water directly from the faucet as it may not be safe.  All villas and suites are therefore supplied with bottled water.

51. What is the price for the sit-down restaurants?

As our Special VIP Guests, there is no additional charge for dining at the sit-down restaurants.   Exclusive, member-only restaurant dining is included as part of our VIP Advantage.

52. Does the resort serve Top Shelf liquor?

Yes, in a few VIP areas.

53. Will I have bottled alcohol in my accommodation?

As Chairman Circle Club Affiliates, we are able to extend to our Special VIP Guests one bottle of alcohol per person from a select list, no matter the accommodation in which they are staying.  Please note that this courtesy is extended free of charge, however, the limitation is one bottle per person per stay.

54. What is the cost to visit Ocean World Park located nearby the resort?

All of our Special V.I.P. Guests will receive FREE Ocean World tickets - a $69.00 per ticket value - no matter the accommodation (up to 14 people per stay).  Your ticket is good for one visit to Ocean World based on availability and the resort will decide the best day to visit the venue. The resort offers transportation with your complimentary admission tickets. Admission is based upon park availability so visit VIP Customer Service upon check in for details.  Additional Ocean World activities while at the park are available for purchase. 

56. Will I receive the same access at the resort that you do as an owner?

As our Special VIP Guests, you will receive the highest level of VIP service and access that the resort offers. While there are a few areas that are reserved only for Owners, Shareholders and Chairman Circle Club Affiliates, your Gold VIP bracelet allows access to most VIP beaches, restaurants and services. 

57. Do I need to exchange U.S. Dollars for Dominican Pesos?

It is not necessary to convert your money to Dominican Pesos.  The resort and most of the resort vendors accept U.S. currency and major credit cards.  Please consult your credit card company or financial institution with regard to credit card usage and possible "foreign transaction fees".  There are ATMs located on the resort but only dispense Pesos so it is best to bring some cash.  

58. Is tipping required?

This is a matter of personal preference.  The Dominican Republic is not a country as well off as the U.S.  A lot of the people of the DR, specifically near the resort cities, rely on tourism to make ends meet.  We have traveled to the resort for many years and have experienced nothing less than the utmost in service and hospitality.  If you choose to tip someone who has done an exceptional job for you, not only will that be acceptable, it will be appreciated.

59. How close is the beach from the resort?

The entire complex is located on Cofresi Beach.  This fact puts you within short walking distance to the beach from any accommodation.

60. What is the climate like at the resort?

The weather is pretty much perfect all year round.  See weather map for the Dominican Republic on our website LOCATIONS page under Dom Rep The Island. It is also always a good idea to check the extended forecast before leaving to travel to the resort.

61. Is there someone at the resort to help if we decide to do an excursion?

Yes.  The VIP Excursion offices are located on the side of VIP World and behind The Tropical.  They can assist you with all your needs.  Please keep in mind that excursions are at an additional cost.  To get additional information on excursions, go to www.lifestyleexcursions.com.

62. Can I rent a car?

Yes.  Currentyly, National and Alamo Car Rentals are available at the resort.  The rental car companies work independently and therefore, the resort cannot handle your car rental request.  Guests must make their own arrangements.  The rentals can be picked up and dropped off right at the resort.  Dominican driving can be quite challenging for those unaccustomed to the experience.  Please prepare in advance.

63. Should I rent a car, can I park it at my villa rental?

Yes, villa renters can park their rental car at the villa.  All other accommodations have designated parking areas near their location.

64. Is this a Timeshare Resort?

Our main resorts are part of a “Vacation Club”.  A vacation club is different in its function than a timeshare, which most are familiar with.  In a vacation club, there are different levels of membership.  Those different levels are obtainable at different price points.  The more you pay, the higher your level.  Live The Lifestyle Vacations is a Lifetime Platinum Supreme Member and Chairman’s Circle Club Affiliate, the highest level of membership with Lifestyles Holiday Vacation Club.  We are not restricted to a certain number of weeks or types of accommodations, but quite the contrary.  We are able to book year round and have access to a variety of accommodations ranging from junior suites to six bedroom villas.

Okay!  How does that benefit you . . . our Special VIP Guest? As Chairman’s Circle Club Affiliates within a vacation club, the club provides us – and our VIP Special Guests – with the very best that the many resorts have to offer.  We experience a level of vacation luxury that is unique and as our VIP Special Guest, so will you!  Once you book through us, most of the resort’s very best amenities are opened for you to enjoy too!!

65. Am I required to attend a timeshare presentation during my stay?

As a Vacation Club, a sales office is present but sales presentations are not mandatory. While you may be approached, we do not require you to attend a presentation as a part of your vacation. Just simply decline and continue to enjoy yourself!

66. Is Live The Lifestyle Vacations a travel agency?

No.  We are Lifetime Platinum Supreme Members and Chairman Circle Club Affiliates of Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Club and have had our membership since 2011.  Our membership allows us to pass our VIP Advantage to our Special VIP Guests.  We have been exceeding our guest's expectations since we have been members and hope to do the very same for you.  Please see our website TESTIMONIALS page.