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Creative Wellness Retreat
Frequently Asked Questions

Sanctum Travel Creative Wellness Retreat
Secrets Royal Beach · Punta Cana, Dominican Republic · April 27 - May 1, 2027
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THE RETREAT EXPERIENCE

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What is the Sanctum Travel Creative Wellness Retreat?

This is an intentional, curated luxury wellness retreat designed for purpose-driven adults who are ready to rest, reconnect, and reset. Over four nights at Secrets Royal Beach which is a AAA Four Diamond, adults-only, all-inclusive resort on Bávaro Beach where you will move through a carefully designed experience anchored in The TOI House framework: Rest. Release. Restore. This is not a conference, a hustle event, or a vacation disguised as a retreat. It is a genuine investment in yourself.

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Who is this retreat for?

This retreat is for anyone who has been pouring into everything and everyone around them and is ready to pour back into themselves. You don't have to be in crisis. You don't have to have it figured out. You just have to be open. Our guests tend to be high-achievers, creatives, caregivers, and purpose-driven professionals in a season of transition who are craving rest, clarity, and community.

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How many guests will be at this retreat?

This retreat is open enrollment with no guest cap. If our group is intimate, we move through the experience together. If we grow, workshop sessions are organized into smaller cohorts so every guest still receives a personal, connected experience. Either way, you will never feel like a number in a crowd.

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Will there be free time?

Absolutely and intentionally! Sacred downtime is built into the schedule. Time by the pool, on the beach, at the spa, or simply in your suite doing nothing at all is part of the experience. Rest is not a bonus. It is the point.

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Is this an adults-only resort?

Yes. Secrets Royal Beach is an adults-only (18+) resort. All guests must be 18 years or older. All guests have access to the Dream's Royal Beach Resort next door which is a family resort. We have access to their amenities but their guests do not have access to Secrets Royal Beach property.

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What is the Day Trip Catamaran Excursion? 

Enjoy a day trip catamaran excursion along the Punta Cana coast. Step aboard a spacious double-decker catamaran and cruise through the stunning turquoise waters of Cap Cana’s breathtaking coastline. Your adventure begins with a snorkeling session at at buccaneers reef, where you’ll have the chance to see tropical marine life up close.

 

Enjoy a relaxing stop at a shallow sandbar, perfect for lounging in crystal-clear waters. Have lunch at the renowned Juanillo Beach Club, where you’ll savor a delicious meal right by the shore. Followed by leisure time where you can unwind on the soft sands, swim in the sea, or simply soak up the sun.

 

Finish the day with a journey into the lush jungle to discover a hidden cenote, a natural freshwater pool perfect for
a refreshing swim in a unique, serene setting.

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Included:

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Not Included:

  • Drinks at the Beach club or Cenote

  • Photos.

  • Tips.

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Are solo travelers safe / welcome?

All solo travelers are safe and welcome to come on our retreats. You are in very good company and our expert team ensures every guest is accounted for when in our programs and on our excursions. This is an intimate, intentional gathering of purpose-driven individuals and there is something truly powerful about choosing to show up for yourself, by yourself.

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From the moment you arrive, you will be welcomed into a community of like-minded people who are all here for the same reason. The retreat environment naturally fosters genuine connection through workshops, fireside sessions, shared meals, and the easy camaraderie that forms when the right people gather in the right space. Most guests leave having made friendships that extend far beyond the retreat itself.

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As for safety, Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana is a secure, gated luxury resort with 24-hour staff, a dedicated hospitality desk, and a tourist police presence in the surrounding Bávaro Beach area. Solo travelers are well looked after both within the resort and throughout the Punta Cana region.

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If you are traveling solo and would like to share a room to take advantage of double occupancy pricing, we also offer roommate matching simply reach out to us at hello@sanctumtravel.travel and we will do our best to connect you with a compatible travel companion before the retreat.

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You do not need a travel partner to belong here. You just need to be ready.

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ACCESSIBILITY & SPECIAL NEEDS 

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We are committed to creating an experience where every guest feels seen, supported, and cared for. If you have mobility needs, dietary restrictions, food allergies, sensory sensitivities, or any health considerations that may affect your experience, please let us know.

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All registered guests will receive a Pre-Retreat Questionnaire where you can share your needs in detail. We will personally follow up and work with our venues on your behalf to make any available accommodations.

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Please note that our venue partners are not always subject to ADA standards, particularly for international destinations. Guests with significant mobility needs are encouraged to contact us at hello@sanctumtravel.travel before registering so we can discuss whether a specific experience is the right fit for you.

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We want you here and we want you comfortable.

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PRICING & PAYMENTS

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What does the retreat cost?

Your total investment is approximately $3,000 per person, which includes your Sanctum Travel program fee and your hotel stay at Secrets Royal Beach. Airfare is not included.

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Your hotel accommodations are billed separately through a dedicated Sanctum Travel guest-only group booking link, which allows you to purchase your room on your own payment plan, outside of our installments for the retreat program fee. This link gives you 10% off your room rate at Secrets Royal Beach and will be emailed to you once your deposit is received.

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⚠️ Sanctum Travel Program Fee: $1,272 per person

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Standard Pricing is available now through December 31, 2026:

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Pricing Window                                                                             Program Fee   

 

  • Standard Installment (now through December 31, 2026)       $1,272 per person
     

  • Flexible Standard (now through December 31, 2026)            $1,383.20 per person (i.e Klarna, Afterpay)

 

  • Late / Last Chance (January 1–31, 2027)                              $1,472 per person (Pay in full)
     

  • Late Flexible Standard (January 1–31, 2027)                         $1,600.62 per person (i.e Klarna, Afterpay)

 

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Late / Last Chance Pricing: January 1–31, 2027 (BNPL only — paid in full at checkout):

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The Installment Plan is not available for Late / Last Chance registrants. Late registrants pay in full at checkout via BNPL.​

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Why is this retreat priced the way it is? As our inaugural retreat, these rates reflect our deep gratitude for the guests who choose to go first. Wellness retreats at luxury all-inclusive resorts of this caliber typically run significantly higher. This inaugural pricing will not be offered again. If this is calling you, now is the time.

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Is there a grace period? A 5-day grace period applies to all installments except deposit and final balance. After five days, a $50 fee will be added to the late installment invoice. After two consecutive missed payments, reservation may be cancelled and Sanctum Travel Cancellation Policy applies.

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What are my payment options? Two flexible options are available:

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Option 1 — Sanctum Travel Installment Plan (Standard registrants only):

Pay in structured installments on fixed calendar dates invoiced directly by Sanctum Travel. No credit check required. Your deposit secures your spot and the remaining balance is split into manageable installments through February 26, 2027.

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  • Deposit: $400 due August 8, 2026

  • Installment 1: $130 due August 26, 2026

  • Installment 2: $130 due September 26, 2026

  • Installment 3: $130 due October 26, 2026

  • Installment 4: $130 due November 26, 2026

  • Installment 5: $130 due December 26, 2026

  • Installment 6: $130 due January 26, 2027

  • Final Balance: $92 due February 26, 2027

  • Total: $1,272

 

Please note: the ticket price on the website for the Installment Plan will show as $0.00. This is intentional. You must complete the checkout process to reserve your spot and register. All payments are collected via invoice sent directly to your email on each installment due date. Available for Standard registrants with the installment plan only.

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Option 2 — Flexible Payment Plan (BNPL — available to all registrants):

Pay through Klarna, Affirm, or Afterpay at checkout. The BNPL provider splits your total into installments on their schedule. Available to both Standard and Late registrants. The price you see at checkout is the all-in total. BNPL options are subject to approval and each provider's individual terms. Credit review may apply.

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How much is the deposit? $400 per person. Your deposit invoice will be sent to your email and is due August 8, 2026. Your spot is not confirmed until your deposit is received. Once your deposit is received, you will be emailed your dedicated hotel group booking link.

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When is the final payment due? February 26, 2027 for all Installment Plan registrants. Late / Last Chance registrants may use either the Installment Plan or BNPL at $1,472 per person.

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Is there a late payment fee? Yes. A 5-day grace period applies to each installment payment date. Payments received after the grace period are subject to a $50 late fee per installment. After two consecutive missed payments, your reservation may be reviewed and potentially cancelled, at which point the Sanctum Travel Cancellation Policy will apply.

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Payment                               Due Date                         Grace Period Ends

  • Deposit                          August 8, 2026                 No grace period

  • Installment 1                  August 26, 2026               August 31, 2026

  • Installment 2                  September 26, 2026        October 1, 2026

  • Installment 3                  October 26, 2026             October 31, 2026

  • Installment 4                  November 26, 2026         December 1, 2026

  • Installment 5                  December 26, 2026         December 31, 2026

  • Installment 6                  January 26, 2027             January 31, 2027

  • Final Balance                 February 26, 2027           No grace period

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Are payments refundable?

All payments are non-refundable as cash. Please see our Cancellation and Refund Policy section below for full details on our tiered credit policy. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. We are licensed to sell travel insurance through Agent Max (Allianz) Travel Insurance in all states except New York. Please contact us for details at Hello@SanctumTravel.Travel.

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Why is the BNPL price slightly higher? The BNPL price includes all processing fees so there are no surprise charges at checkout. What you see is what you pay.

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WHAT'S INCLUDED & NOT INCLUDED

 

What's included in my retreat investment?

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  • 5 nights accommodations at Secrets Royal Beach (double or single occupancy)

  • All meals, snacks, beverages, and 24-hour room service (Unlimited-Luxury® all-inclusive)

  • Luxury Roundtrip airport transfers (Punta Cana International Airport ↔ resort)

  • Welcome cocktails and mocktails

  • Curated wellness workshops

  • Group fireside chats 

  • Sunset catamaran excursion 

  • Private group dinner 

  • Full access to all Secrets Royal Beach resort amenities: pools, beach, fitness center, yoga and Pilates classes, nightly entertainment, and cross-resort access to Dreams Royal Beach next door

 

All schedules, activities, and programming are subject to change.

 

What is NOT included?

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  • Airfare (guests book and pay for their own flights to Punta Cana International Airport, PUJ)

  • Spa treatments at Secrets Spa by Pevonia® (available at additional cost highly recommended)

  • Personal shopping and individual excursions outside of the group catamaran

  • Travel insurance (optional and strongly recommended. Agent Max travel insurance details will be emailed to you if you choose to insure your travel with Sanctum Travel)

  • Passport fees, travel documentation costs, or airline baggage fees

 

Is airfare included? No. Airfare is the responsibility of each guest. We recommend booking early. April fares are affordable the earlier you plan your travel. Fly into Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). The resort is approximately 20 minutes away and airport transfers are included.

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Is alcohol included? Yes. Secrets Royal Beach is Unlimited-Luxury® all-inclusive. Top-shelf spirits, beer, wine, cocktails, mocktails, juices, and soft drinks are included at every bar, poolside, beachside, and via 24-hour room service.

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Is the spa included? Spa treatments are not included but are available at Secrets Spa by Pevonia® at an additional cost. We are gifting our guests a $50 spa credit with their ticket purchase. With 17,000 square feet of wellness offerings: massages, facials, body treatments, and a signature outdoor hydrotherapy circuit. The spa is a beautiful complement to the retreat. We encourage you to treat yourself!

 

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HOTEL & ACCOMMODATIONS

 

How do I book my hotel room? Hotel accommodations are not included in the program fee. Once your deposit is received, you will be emailed a dedicated Sanctum Travel guest-only group booking link that gives you 10% off your room rate at Secrets Royal Beach, booked directly and paid on your own terms.

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What room type is available? Junior Suite Tropical View. Room upgrades are available on a first come, first served basis through the resort directly.

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What does my suite include? Every suite at Secrets Royal Beach includes a private balcony or terrace, in-suite hydro-tub/Jacuzzi, daily refreshed mini-bar, premium bedding, luxury bath products, flat-screen TV, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and daily housekeeping. All suites are non-smoking.

 

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TRAVEL & IMMIGRATION — DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

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Do I need a passport? Yes. A valid US passport is required to enter the Dominican Republic. Check your expiration date now.

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The Dominican Republic passport exemption that allowed entry with passports valid only for the duration of stay expires December 31, 2026. For our April 2027 retreat, we strongly recommend your passport be valid for at least 6 months beyond May 1, 2027 meaning valid through November 1, 2027 or later. Please check your passport expiration date now and renew if needed. US passport renewals currently take 6–8 weeks.

However, we strongly recommend having at least 6 months of validity beyond your travel dates; some airlines flag passports under 6 months and may deny boarding.

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Your passport must also have at least 2 blank pages for entry stamps. If your passport needs renewal, start the process now as processing times can vary.

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Do I need a visa? No. US citizens do not need a visa to visit the Dominican Republic for stays under 30 days. Entry is visa-free with a valid passport.

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What is the Dominican Republic E-Ticket? The E-Ticket is mandatory for all passengers entering and exiting the Dominican Republic by air. All guests must complete the DR e-Ticket at eticket.migracion.gob.do before arrival. It's free and it only takes 5 minutes.

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You must complete this digital form online before your flight; it can be submitted up to 72 hours before departure.

The form generates a QR code. Screenshot it and save it offline; airport Wi-Fi can be unreliable. Do not wait until the airport. Complete it early at: eticket.migracion.gob.do

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Is the tourist card fee extra? No. The $10 tourist card fee is already included in your airline ticket. You do not need to pay it separately.

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What documents should I have ready at immigration?

  • Valid passport

  • E-Ticket QR code (screenshot saved offline)

  • Resort confirmation (Secrets Royal Beach, Punta Cana)

  • Proof of return travel (your return flight confirmation)

 

Immigration officers appreciate organized travelers. Keep these accessible not buried in your luggage.

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Are there health requirements to enter the Dominican Republic? As of 2026, no COVID-19 vaccination card, PCR test, or antigen test is required to enter the Dominican Republic. Always verify current requirements with official sources before travel as policies can change.

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What currency is used? Can I use US dollars? The official currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas and at the resort. Most of your expenses will be covered by the all-inclusive package. Having a small amount of local currency is useful for any off-resort purchases or tips in local markets.

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Is the Dominican Republic safe? Punta Cana's resort area is one of the most visited and well-policed areas in the Dominican Republic with a dedicated tourist police force (POLITUR). Secrets Royal Beach is a secure, gated luxury resort. As with any international destination, be mindful of your surroundings, keep valuables secured, and travel with the group when off-property. Tourist police can be reached at 809-222-2026.

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LUGGAGE & PACKING

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What are the airline luggage guidelines for international travel? Luggage allowances vary by airline and fare class. As a general guide for international flights to Punta Cana:

 

Carry-on: Most airlines allow 1 carry-on (up to approximately 22 x

14 x 9 inches) plus 1 personal item (purse, laptop bag, or small backpack). Weight limits are typically 15–22 lbs depending on your airline.

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Checked luggage: Most international economy fares include 1 free checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg). A second checked bag typically costs $40–$60. Bags over 50 lbs are subject to overweight fees. Always confirm your specific airline's policy at booking.

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Pro tip: Pay for checked bags online in advance most airlines charge less online than at the airport.

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What should I pack? A full packing guide will be sent to all registered guests approximately 60 days before the retreat. In general:

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  • Light, breathable clothing (warm and sunny, 82–86°F)

  • Swimwear (bring multiple sets)

  • A light cardigan or layer for air-conditioned spaces and cool evenings

  • Casual Elegance attire for dinner at à la carte restaurants (see below)

  • Comfortable walking sandals and one pair of closed-toe shoes

  • Water shoes

  • Sunscreen (reef safe), sunglasses, and a hat

  • Any prescription medications (pack in your carry-on)

  • Passport and travel documents kept easily accessible not buried in checked luggage

 

What is the Casual Elegance dress code? Most à la carte restaurants at Secrets Royal Beach enforce a Casual Elegance dress code for dinner. No swimwear, flip-flops, or athletic wear. Think sundresses, slacks, blouses, and neat casual attire. Comfortable sandals are generally fine for women; men should have closed-toe shoes and a collared shirt. Pool bars and the buffet are casual.

 

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CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY

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What is the cancellation policy? All payments toward the Sanctum Travel Creative Wellness Retreat are non-refundable as cash. However, we understand that life happens and have structured our policy to protect both our guests and our ability to deliver the experience we have promised:

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Notice Given                                                                                         Outcome

  • 90+ days before retreat (before January 27, 2027)   | 100% credit toward a future Sanctum Travel experience
     

  • 60–89 days before retreat (January 27 – February 26, 2027)  |    50% credit toward a future Sanctum Travel experience
     

  • Within 60 days of retreat (After February 26, 2027)        |     Non-refundable · No credit issued

 

Credits are valid for 24 months from the date of cancellation.

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What if I need to cancel? All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to hello@sanctumtravel.travel. The cancellation date is determined by the date the written request is received. Verbal cancellations are not accepted. If you are unable to attend, please reach out as soon as possible so we can apply the appropriate credit to your account.

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Can I transfer my spot to someone else? Bookings are non-transferable to another individual without prior written approval from Sanctum Travel. Requests must be submitted to hello@sanctumtravel.travel a minimum of 30 days before the retreat start date. Approval is at the sole discretion of Sanctum Travel.

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What if the retreat is cancelled by Sanctum Travel? In the unlikely event that Sanctum Travel must cancel the retreat due to circumstances beyond our control including acts of God, government travel restrictions, natural disaster, epidemic, civil disorder, or venue closure all registered guests will receive a full credit toward a future Sanctum Travel experience or, at our discretion, a full refund. We will communicate promptly and work with every guest toward a fair resolution.

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What about travel insurance? Because all payments are non-refundable as cash, we strongly recommend that all guests purchase travel insurance at the time of registration. Travel insurance protects your investment in the event of illness, injury, family emergency, or other unforeseen circumstances. Details on recommended providers will be shared with all registered guests.

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What about hurricane season? December falls well outside of hurricane season in the Caribbean (June through November). This is one of the reasons December was chosen making it one of the safest and most beautiful travel windows of the year for Punta Cana.

 

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AFTER YOU REGISTER

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What happens after I register? You will receive a confirmation email with next steps. Within 48 hours, your first invoice will be sent. Once your deposit is received, you will be emailed your dedicated hotel group booking link. Approximately 60 days before the retreat you'll receive a full packing guide and logistics details. Approximately 30 days before you'll receive the full itinerary.

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How do I stay updated? All updates, behind the scenes content, and community announcements live at sanctumtravel.travel. Follow us on Instagram @sanctumtravel and join the conversation: #SanctumTravel · #RestReleaseRestore · #SanctumPuntaCana2027

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I have a question not answered here. How do I reach you? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at Hello@SanctumTravel.Travel and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

 

Sanctum Travel by The TOI House LLC · sanctumtravel.travel · @sanctumtravel · hello@sanctumtravel.travel

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All information is current as of publication date. Travel requirements, airline policies, and resort offerings are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with official sources before travel.

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Tips for Responsible Tourism and Respecting Local Culture

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The Dominican Republic is a nation of extraordinary warmth, rich culture, and deep pride. As guests of this beautiful country, we encourage every Sanctum Travel retreater to move through Punta Cana with the same intentionality that brought you to this retreat in the first place.

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Greet with grace. Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic. Learning a few basic phrases like hola (hello), gracias (thank you), por favor (please) goes a long way and is always warmly received by locals.

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Tip thoughtfully. While gratuities are included in the all-inclusive package at Secrets Royal Beach, if you venture off-property and interact with local vendors, guides, or service workers, tipping in US dollars or Dominican Pesos is a meaningful gesture that directly supports local livelihoods.

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Shop local when you can. The Dominican Republic is known for its larimar gemstone, amber jewelry, hand-rolled cigars, cacao, and local artisan crafts. When shopping off-property, seek out locally owned shops and markets rather than resort gift shops to ensure your spending directly benefits the local community.

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Respect the environment. Bávaro Beach is one of the most pristine stretches of Caribbean coastline in the world. Please do not remove shells, coral, or marine life from the beach or ocean, and dispose of waste responsibly. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral ecosystem.

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Be a mindful guest. The Dominican people are known for their generosity and hospitality. Honor that by being respectful of local customs, dress codes when venturing into town, and the natural spaces you encounter beyond the resort walls.

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Photography with permission. When photographing local people, markets, or communities off-property, always ask for permission first. A smile and a ¿puedo tomarte una foto? (may I take your photo?) shows respect and usually results in the most genuine and beautiful images.

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Traveling with intention means leaving every place better than you found it and the Dominican Republic deserves nothing less.

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ELECTRICITY AND OUTLETS

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The Dominican Republic uses 120V voltage at 60Hz frequency with Type A and Type B outlets the same standard used throughout the United States. This means US travelers do not need a plug adapter or voltage converter at Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana. Your phone chargers, laptops, hair tools, and other devices will plug in directly without any additional equipment.

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Quick reference:

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  • Voltage: 120V

  • Frequency: 60Hz

  • Outlet type: Type A and B (standard US plugs)

  • Adapter needed for US guests: No

  • Converter needed for US guests: No

 

For international guests traveling from Europe, the UK, or other regions with different voltage standards, a universal travel adapter is recommended. These are widely available online and at most airports before departure.

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Pro tip: Pack a small power strip or multi-port USB charging hub. Suite outlets are limited and with phones, tablets, cameras, and other devices needing daily charging, having one hub keeps everything organized and accessible from your nightstand or terrace.

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