INCENTIVE TRIP to PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC AUGUST 1 6, 2018
PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC The second largest nation in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic occupies the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola in the Greater Antilles, with Haiti occupying the western portion. To the west are Jamaica and Cuba; Puerto Rico is east beyond the 112-kilometer Mona Passage; and the southern tip of Florida is about 1,000 kilometers away. Situated in the heart of the region between North and South America, the country is bathed by the Caribbean Sea on the south coast and the Atlantic Ocean to the north. With a land area of 48,442 square kilometers, it is larger than the Bahamas, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, all the Virgin Islands and the entire French West Indies put together. The Dominican Republic is slightly larger than the Netherlands, and approximately the size of the US state of Maryland. The Dominican Republic is a land of contrasts with towering mountains and rocky cliffs, rain forests, fertile valleys, cacti-studded deserts, 1,600 kilometers of coastline and about 300 kilometers of prime soft sand beaches. Today, the East Coast beach strip is one of the best choices for those seeking the perfect beach and R&R (rest and relaxation). This is a place for vegging out miles of silky-fine white sand, deserted beaches with coconut palms. The array of water sports options offered right on the beach is amazing: catamaran boat rides, double-decker party boats, restaurant dining at sunset on the sea, parasailing, glass bottom boats for marine life observation, sports fishing, diving, snorkeling, flying boats, and speed boats. There is also banana boating, kayaking, windsurfing, sailing and beach volleyball.
HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO Welcome to Hard Rock's first all-inclusive resort, right in the heart of one of the most beautiful places on Earth, the beaches of the Dominican Republic's east coast. The property combines Hard Rock s signature Rock Star suites with all-inclusive luxury accommodations, including double Jacuzzis and double showers. The property will also feature an extensive collection of Hard Rock s authentic music memorabilia, highlighting both international and local artists, as well as incorporating diverse music genres throughout. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana absolutely rocks. Surrounded by beautiful beaches, everything provided for you, immersed in Hard Rock's singular style, this one-of-a-kind resort is the place to be in the Caribbean. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana features one of the largest casinos in the Caribbean. The casino offers a high-limit poker room, a VIP lounge and a Race and Sports Book, in addition to 457 slots and 40 tables, where guests can try their hand at traditional Las Vegas-style gaming, including Baccarat, Black Jack, Craps and Roulette. There is nothing else like this in Punta Cana, in the Dominican Republic, or in the Caribbean. The all-inclusive Hard Rock Punta Cana is home to 8 outdoor pools with ocean view, three pools overlooking the lagoon, two kids pools and four swim-up bars. In addition, two tennis courts, a kid's club, spa and fitness center, climbing tower, miniature golf course, and planned amphitheater add to the numerous luxury amenities of this all-inclusive paradise. Nine dining venues and a plethora of free-flowing all-inclusive bars are available at the Hard Rock Punta Cana Resort. Choose from Italian, Brazilian, Japanese, Caribbean, Seafood and more. A full daily activity program complements nightly entertainment of variety shows and dancing under the stars. And when you're hungry, you'll have a choice of 8 different restaurants, a wireless Internet equipped Cyber Café & Lounge and 24- hour room service. Your oversized, resort-view guestroom includes a double Jacuzzi, LCD satellite TV, air-conditioning, iron and ironing board, stocked mini-bar, coffee maker, in-
room safe, complimentary wireless internet access and private balcony. Bathrooms feature bath amenities, bathrobes, hair dryer and double vanities. All- Inclusive Leisure Activities 13 Outdoor pools and numerous swimup bars Sun beds, sunshades and towel service Non-motorized water sports Fitness Center Billiards Ping Pong Full Service Spa (Spa services additional) Private Golf Course on Site (Green Fees additional) Live shows in the evening Disco Casino
REGISTRATION SITE, TRAVEL FORMS AND AIR ITINERARIES: Please register for the trip at http://www.miregistration.net/hfgpuntacana no later than June 29, 2018 to confirm your reservation. Upon receipt of your registration, an air itinerary will be sent to you via e-mail for you to review and approve. Once you have approved your airline reservations, any changes made will incur change penalties and may result in additional airfare charges for which you will be billed. If you have any questions, please call your Heartland Financial Group Travel Coordinator at 1-913-438-2600. TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION: Passports are required for all passengers for travel to Dominican Republic. Please carry them on you and not in your checked luggage. All travelers: Please be advised that the name on your airline ticket must be exactly the same as the name on your photo identification. If these names do not match, you will likely be denied boarding by the airline. AIRLINE TICKETS: Your airline tickets will be sent to you via 2-day Federal Express approximately one week prior to your departure. LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE: Airline travel regulations vary regarding the number of pieces of luggage you may check and the cost per bag. Please check with your carrier for current luggage policies. All carriers charge for any bag that weighs over 50 pounds. Luggage fees are at your own expense. In addition, only one carry-on bag is allowed per passenger, plus a personal item such as a purse, camera bag or laptop. Carryon bags must fit under a seat or in an overhead compartment. SECURITY AND PACKING GUIDELINES: Airport security measures differ from one airport to another around the world. However, some general guidelines should be followed. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to departure, allow ample time to clear security screening at your airport and expect to encounter more than one security checkpoint at all airports. Airlines are requiring that you present yourself at your departure gate 45 minutes prior to departure. In addition, some airlines are refusing to accept checked luggage less than one hour prior to scheduled flight time. Do NOT pack any sharp objects in your carry-on luggage or they will be confiscated by security. Items such as pocket knives, tweezers, disposable razors, metal nail files, etc. must be packed in your checked luggage. All liquids and gels in your carry-on must be less than 3 oz. (100 ml) and fit in one plastic, one-quart, zip-top bag.
LUGGAGE TAGS: You will receive special Heartland Financial Group luggage tags for each piece of checked luggage with your final trip documents. Be sure to fill out the tags and attach them to your luggage. These will expedite handling of your bags throughout the trip. LAPTOP COMPUTERS AND ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT: Laptops, expensive jewelry and other electronic equipment are attractive to thieves. It is imperative that you carry these items on your person and not in your checked luggage. Regretfully, Heartland Financial Group and MTI cannot assume responsibility for these items in your luggage. Additionally, most airlines do not replace these items if lost. Simply stated, do not give these items to bellmen, skycaps or anyone else. Your guest room is equipped with a safe. Please secure all money, passports, jewelry and other valuables in the safe. PERSONAL TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS: If you would like to extend your visit at the Hard Rock, the room rate is $435.00 per night double occupancy or $379.00 per night single occupancy. Please indicate on the registration form if you are interested in extending your stay. Additional nights or changes to the program will be at your own expense. CLIMATE AND ATTIRE: Temperatures should range from the high 80s during the day to the low 70s in the evening. The following dress information should be helpful: Casual: Resort Casual: Dress for comfort. Nice shorts, polo shirts, casual sundresses are appropriate. Camp shirts, linen shirts, slacks for men. (No Shorts) Skirts, blouses, sundresses or pants for ladies. MEALS & BEVERAGES: Breakfast, lunch and dinner and snacks are included for you daily at the resort. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are included for you until 2:00 AM. Drinks from the mini-bar and room service are also included for you. HOSPITALITY DESK: During your stay at the Hard Rock Punta Cana, the Heartland Financial Group Hospitality Desk will be available to help make your stay more enjoyable. Stop by for any assistance you may need during the program. INTERNET & CELL PHONES: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the hotel lobby. Cell phone service in Dominican Republic is dependent on your carrier. Please contact your carrier for international service plans.
GRATUITIES: Gratuities for all services and activities as outlined in the itinerary have been included for you by Heartland Financial Group. Gratuities for services you may receive on your own are at your discretion. ZIKA VIRUS: The CDC has issued a travel advisory for Central America, South America and the Caribbean. This is an advisory, not a restriction or a warning. The biggest threat is to pregnant women. It is highly recommended that you bring bug spray to the Dominican Republic. For additional information, please visit the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/zika. CURRENCY: The currency in Dominican Republic is the Dominican Peso but US dollars are readily accepted. In addition, MasterCard and Visa credit cards are accepted almost anywhere and American Express is accepted on a more limited basis. It is recommended that your card have a security chip for your protection against fraud. ELECTRIC CURRENT: You do NOT need to bring a converter and adapter plugs to operate your electrical appliances in Dominican Republic due to the 110-volt current. Your room is equipped with a hair dryer. PERSONAL INCIDENTAL ACCOUNTS: The Hard Rock Punta Cana will establish an incidental account for you for items of a personal nature such as gift purchases, spa appointments, phone charges, laundry, etc. These items will be at your own expense and may be paid by you at check out by cash or credit card including American Express, Visa, MasterCard, Diner s Club and Discover Card. Do NOT use a debit card. RESORT CREDIT: The hotel offers each guest room a resort credit depending on the length of stay: $750.00 for a stay of 4 nights $1,500.00 for a stay of 5 6 nights $1,800.00 for a stay of 7 nights or longer Resort credit can be used for spa services, golf, romantic dinners, entrance to Oro nightclub, activities and excursions, etc. Resort credit can only be redeemed at Vacation Planners at the Hard Rock Hotel once you arrive on site. Services must be booked 24 hours in advance. Please note that for every booking made with resort credit a 20% service charge will apply and must be paid in cash or credit card. Resort credit has no commercial value and is not subject to refund or credit when guests check out. ITEMS NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR PROGRAM: Items of a strictly personal nature, including but not limited to, laundry, medication, telephone calls, taxi, bus, optional tours and entertainment that you may elect to take on your own that are not listed in the itinerary will be at your own expense.
DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY DAY ONE, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1: This morning depart your home city for your international flight to Punta Cana. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to the hotel. The cost of the required international tourist card is included. After private check-in, your afternoon is at leisure to explore this tropical resort. Hotel accommodations have been booked by HFG. Join your Heartland Financial Group colleagues this evening for a private welcome party at the hotel this evening. Enjoy a full open bar with premium brands. A delicious dinner featuring island specialties will be served in scattered food stations. Suggested Attire: Casual DAY TWO, THURSDAY, AUGUST 2: Enjoy a breakfast buffet at leisure at the hotel this morning. Depart this morning for a catamaran sail to Saona Island. Discovered by Christopher Columbus, the island is a government-protected nature preserve. Large starfish can be found in the area. Once on the island, settle in for a day of fun in the sun: sand volleyball, merengue and a great beach BBQ lunch. On the return, speedboats will take you to see the sacred Taino Indian princess natural swimming pool. Round-trip transportation, catamarans, speedboats, national drinks and buffet lunch are included. Late afternoon return to the hotel. Dinner is at leisure at the resort. Eight distinctive restaurants offer a wide variety of dining opportunities. Stop by the Heartland Financial Group Hospitality Desk for assistance with dinner reservations.
DAY THREE, FRIDAY, AUGUST 3: Start your morning with a delicious breakfast buffet at the hotel. Your entire day is at leisure to relax by the pool, stroll the white sand beach or participate in the many activities offered at the Hard Rock Punta Cana. Dinner this evening is at leisure and included for you at the resort. DAY FOUR, SATURDAY, AUGUST 4: Start your morning with a delicious breakfast buffet at the hotel. This morning everyone has their choice of one hosted activity. Choose from the following: Adrenalin Canopy: Experience an aerial view of the Dominican Republic with this exhilarating zip-line adventure. Surrounded by natural beauty, you will fly through the air across the magnificent Anamuya pond as your guides unlock the secrets of the Taino Anamuya Mountains. Experience an unforgettable bird s eye view of this lush tropical land. Round-trip transportation, safety equipment, professional guides, bottled water and light snacks are included. Swim with Dolphins: Experience the thrill of swimming up close and personal with friendly dolphins. Feel the love and charisma of these friendly animals as they give you a kiss, a hug, and a handshake in addition to sharing their tricks and games with you. Your swim ends with a boogie push across the water surface by the dolphins. Round-trip transportation, life jacket and dolphin briefing are included. Round of Golf: Enjoy a challenging round of golf at the brand new Cana Bay Palace Golf Club. This Jack Nicklaus designed golf course is surrounded by tropical foliage and the beautiful Caribbean landscape. The Golf Club facility is the perfect place to unwind after a long day on the greens. Green fees, cart and practice balls are included.
Jungle Rally: Buckle up and enjoy personalized VIP tour of the countryside in air-conditioned 4x4 Jeeps fitted with off-road suspension and fully-stocked bar. Your tour includes visits to a country house, local school, coconut farm, coffee and cacao plantation and butterfly garden. A typical Dominican lunch is included. Your driver and guide will be your personal butler and chauffeur for the day. Based on 4 guests/vehicle. Snorkel with Nurse Sharks & Stingrays: Join us for a half day cruise and you ll have the unique experience to snorkel with stingrays and nurse sharks. You ll then cruise along the cost of Cabeza de Toro to Bavaro s Natural Pool where you ll have free time to relax, swim and enjoy a cocktail. Round-trip transportation, snorkel equipment, guides, snacks, bottled water and national beverages are included. Spa Treatment: Treat yourself to the ultimate rejuvenating experience with a 50-minute massage or facial at the hotel spa. Lunch is included at the resort. Dinner is at leisure at your choice of hotel restaurants. Stop by the Heartland Financial Group Hospitality Desk for assistance with dinner reservations. DAY FIVE, SUNDAY, AUGUST 5: Start your day with breakfast at leisure at the resort this morning. Your entire day is at leisure to relax by the pool, shop for those last minute souvenirs or participate in the many activities offered at the resort. Lunch is included at the resort. Tonight it s time to celebrate your accomplishments. Your evening begins with a one hour cocktail reception, followed be a delicious three-course served dinner. After dinner the Heartland Financial Group Awards Presentation will take place. Suggested Attire: Resort Casual
DAY SIX, MONDAY, AUGUST 6: Enjoy your final breakfast buffet at the hotel. Check out of the hotel according to the information you received yesterday. Your Heartland Financial Group Travel Staff will assist you. Private transportation will take you to the airport for your return flights back to the United States.
Additional Guest/Child Information & Pricing Each qualifier is entitled to bring ONE guest compliments of HFG. If you would like to bring additional guests or children to Punta Cana, additional costs will apply. Pricing is based on extra guest sharing a room with two adults. Maximum of TWO (2) children in the same room with two adults or maximum of 3 Adults and 1 Child in a room. Airfare to Punta Cana is additional and is NOT included. Guests Ages 18 & Up and includes the following: Hotel room for 5 nights/6 days sharing with two adults Bellman & Maid Gratuities Round-trip transfers from the airport to resort All taxes & gratuities Private Catamaran Cruise to Saona Island on Day 2 Hosted Activity on Day 4 Breakfast, lunch, dinner and all snacks daily All beverages Welcome Dinner Party and Farewell Awards Dinner $1,528.00 + Air Children Land package ages 4-17: (same package as above) Children ages 3 and under: (no hosted activity option included) $738.00 + Air $123.00 + Air The land portion for children may be paid by check or MasterCard or Visa and received NO LATER than July 15, 2018. Make check payable to MTI Events and mail to 10400 West 103 rd St. Suite 10, Overland Park, KS 66214. Questions - Call your HFG Travel Coordinator - 913-438-2600