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Creative Wellness Retreat
Frequently Asked Questions

Sanctum Travel Creative Wellness Retreat
Secrets Royal Beach · Punta Cana, Dominican Republic · December 8–12, 2026
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THE RETREAT EXPERIENCE

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 — an AAA Four Diamond, adults-only, all-inclusive resort on Bávaro Beach — you will move through a carefully designed experience anchored in The TOI House framework: Rest. Release. Reset. This is not a conference, a hustle event, or a vacation disguised as a retreat. It is a genuine investment in yourself.

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.

How many guests will be at this retreat? This is a small, intimate retreat with limited availability. The intentionally small group size creates a safe, connected environment where real transformation can happen.

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.

Is this an adults-only resort? Yes. Secrets Royal Beach is an adults-only (18+) resort. All guests must be 18 years or older.

ACCESSIBILITY & SPECIAL NEEDS 

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.

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.

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.

We want you here — and we want you comfortable.

 

PRICING & PAYMENTS

What does the retreat cost? We offer two pricing tiers and two payment options. Your price depends on both your tier (Standard or Late) and your chosen payment method (Installment Plan or Buy Now Pay Later [BNPL]). Please review carefully so you know exactly what to expect at checkout.

⚠️ For Double Occupancy, please purchase 1 ticket per pair, not 1 ticket per person.

Standard Pricing — available now through September 30, 2026:

Room Type                                 Sanctum Travel Installment Plan                            Flexible Payment Plan (BNPL)

 

  • Double Occupancy                  $2,100 per person                                                   $2,250 per person

 

  • Single Occupancy                   $2,800 per person                                                    $3,000 per person

 

Late / Last Chance Pricing — October 1–30, 2026 (BNPL only — paid in full at checkout):

 

Room Type                                  Flexible Payment Plan (BNPL)

 

  • Double Occupancy                  $2,450 per person

 

  • Single Occupancy                   $3,200 per person

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

The BNPL price is slightly higher than the Installment Plan price because it includes all processing fees — what you see at checkout is the all-in total with nothing added on top.

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.

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

Option 1 — Sanctum Travel Installment Plan (Standard registrants only): Pay in manageable installments on fixed calendar dates:

  • Deposit: August 8, 2026

  • Installment 1: August 20, 2026

  • Installment 2: September 20, 2026

  • Installment 3: October 8, 2026

  • Final Balance: October 30, 2026

 

Please note: the ticket price on the website for the Installment Plan will show as Free. This is intentional — you must complete the checkout process to reserve your spot and register, but no payment is collected at that time. 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.

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 — nothing added on top.

How much is the deposit? The deposit applies to Standard Installment Plan registrants only. BNPL registrants pay in full at checkout and do not have a separate deposit.

  • Double Occupancy: $250 per person / $500 per pair

  • Single Occupancy: $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.

When is the final payment due? October 30, 2026 for Standard registrants on the Installment Plan. Late / Last Chance registrants pay in full at registration.

Are payments refundable? All payments are non-refundable as cash. Please see our Cancellation & Refund Policy section below for full details on our tiered credit policy.

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. It's our way of keeping things transparent and fully covered.

 

WHAT'S INCLUDED & NOT INCLUDED

 

What's included in my retreat investment?

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

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

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

  • Welcome cocktails and mocktails

  • 2 curated wellness workshops (3 hours each — Wednesday and Thursday mornings)

  • Group fireside chats (Wednesday and Friday evenings)

  • Sunset catamaran excursion (Thursday, December 10)

  • Private group dinner (Friday, December 11)

  • 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?

  • 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 — details coming soon)

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

 

Is airfare included? No. Airfare is the responsibility of each guest. We recommend booking early — December fares to Punta Cana rise significantly in late fall. Fly into Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). The resort is approximately 20 minutes away and airport transfers are included.

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.

Is the spa included? Spa treatments are not included but are available at Secrets Spa by Pevonia® at an additional cost. 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.

 

ROOM TYPES & OCCUPANCY

 

What room type is available? Rooms are available in Junior Suite Tropical View in double or single occupancy. Room upgrades are available on a first come, first served basis.

What is double occupancy? Double occupancy means you share a suite with one other guest. If you are registering as a pair, only one person needs to purchase the double occupancy ticket on behalf of both guests.

⚠️ For Double Occupancy, please purchase 1 ticket per pair, not 1 ticket per person.

What if I want a private suite? Select Single Occupancy at registration. You'll have your own suite entirely to yourself for all four nights.

What if I want to attend but don't have a roommate? We offer roommate matching! Reach out to us at hello@sanctumtravel.travel and we'll do our best to connect you with another solo guest so you can enjoy double occupancy pricing.

What does my suite include? Every suite at Secrets Royal Beach includes:

  • Private balcony or terrace

  • In-suite or terrace hydro-tub / Jacuzzi

  • Daily refreshed mini-bar (beer, water, juice, soft drinks — at no charge)

  • Premium bedding and luxury bath products

  • Flat-screen TV and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi

  • 24-hour room service

  • Daily housekeeping

 

All 641 suites are non-smoking.

 

TRAVEL & IMMIGRATION — DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

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

Important 2026 exemption: The Dominican Republic has extended a special exemption through December 31, 2026 allowing US citizens to enter with a passport that is only valid for the duration of their stay. 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. 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.

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.

What is the Dominican Republic E-Ticket? The E-Ticket is mandatory for all passengers entering and exiting the Dominican Republic by air. 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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

 

LUGGAGE & PACKING

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.

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.

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

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

  • Light, breathable clothing (warm and sunny — 79–85°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.

 

CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY

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:

Notice Given                                                                                         Outcome

  • 90+ days before retreat (before September 8, 2026)   | 100% credit toward a future Sanctum Travel experience
     

  • 60–89 days before retreat (September 8 – October 8, 2026)  50% credit toward a future Sanctum Travel experience
     

  • Within 60 days of retreat (after October 8, 2026)        |  Non-refundable · No credit issued

 

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

 

AFTER YOU REGISTER

What happens after I register? You will receive a confirmation email with next steps. Within one week, you'll receive a Pre-Retreat Questionnaire to help us personalize your experience. 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 and any remaining details you need before arrival.

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 · #RestReleaseReset · #SanctumPuntaCana2026

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

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.

Tips for Responsible Tourism and Respecting Local Culture

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

ELECTRICITY AND OUTLETS

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.

Quick reference:

  • 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.

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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