Iberostar The Club - Yet Another Vacation Club. Legit?
IBEROSTAR THE CLUB
I'd heard of this a few years ago, but never been approached; until last last month. Always seemed like a mystery of sorts. I was always thinking " what the hell are you talking about" when folks would bitch, etc. Well, last month when we traveled to the Iberostar Paraiso Grand for the umpteenth time, it finally happened. Upon check in, we were approached by one of the concierges who was extremely nice and professional. During the whole process she hinted we could have a meeting of sorts for the 'club' option. Threw me off at first, because I didn't connect the dots right away thinking she was our 'main' concierge. But, before heading to our room I realized the desk over by the check-in, window side... was the sneaky "club" folks. A day or two later, I agreed to a morning sales pitch, but ONLY because I wanted to hear it .. understand it... the angle(s) .. .the numbers. Hey, I'm in 'sales' and this shit interests me! Since I wrote my last blog (the club over at the SECRETS resorts) on this wanted to see it for myself. But, after we go back to the room the wife asked me if I was seriously thinking of this and of course I wasn't. So "WHY waste your time .. our time?" was the question. True. I called back and canceled. I was assured it was a low pressure meeting, but ... I explained I had zero intentions of joining. After several more requests, I finally shut it down. Still , I wondered. Well in a FB Group specific to the Iberostar .. this subject came up the other day. Got to tell you, it looks eerily similar to the UVC one .. which ... got me to looking at the specifics.
After researching UVC, and now this 'Club', I have to tell you a few things jump out at you. First, there are the few people that are over the top happy with their choice. They Vaca' often, enjoy the perks, travel often to the same resort chain (one of the beni's of these clubs; they force that hand) and see a value to what they purchase. The second thing that jumps out at me are how many things are promised but don't make it into the actual 'contract' that is signed. There are no brochures or overviews that are handed out with all the info to help with this process. A lot of fast talking, things written down on napkins or in the sales persons notebook to prove their angle of saving us all money, but nothing for potential buyers to hold on to. Nothing to review. And it's high pressure sales techniques; buy NOW! Prices good ONLY TODAY!! Third, there is a HUGE percentage of folks that are unhappy with what they actually get. Often don't understand what they actually signed for. And when this happens, it's almost impossible to get out of these contracts without a loss of funds. Sometimes, a LOT of money.
So, I set out to understand the Iberostar's angle. Their Price structures. As I type this, I still can't lock it all down. I've got a warm fuzzy of the Levels (color coded). Some of the prices. But prices are all over the map because they initially come in high. Some people agree, some talk them down. What one person pays $15k for, another may pay $4500 for the same level. Some appear to negotiate in extra weeks, percentages, perks of all kinds. I've copy/pasted a LOT of info I found out there, posted by unhappy AND happy customers . Lets just say, LOTS of unhappy customer. I've always been shocked by how many folks sign up for these and have buyers remorse. But in all fairness, some of these sales folks outright lie. Some are borderline crooks. No doubt there are a lot of honest ones as well. BUT, if they don't print out the contract and let one review it overnight, is it the customer's fault? If they won't let your lawyer review it, is it the customer's fault. If they won't hand you a proposal or brochure with all the Levels and Prices, is it the customers fault? I believe somewhere in the mix of all this there are some great options/opportunities for travelers in it all. But, one must travel often. Enjoy the perks.Be able to afford joining the club AND the upcoming travel. Sadly, too many people let themselves get talked into these after agreeing to a presentation to get some 'free perks'. You know, the massages, drinks, you name it. Suddenly that free massage just cost them $10k and they don't know what happened. Few days later they panic and decide to get out of the contract and come to the realization they ...fucked up.
I'm in sales. I'm not in the 'car sales world' but I get reminded every time I buy a vehicle, how this game is played. Remember, you may buy a vehicle every year. Every several years. Once a decade. But the guy you're buying from, is doing this multiple times a day. His sales manager is doing this dozens of times a day. You don't have a chance. When you walk out with the keys to your new vehicle, no matter how good a deal you think you got, they both made money. The dealership made money. The question is ... ..how much money did you leave on the table? Could you have done better? Probably. These CLUB salespeople are doing this daily. You don't have a chance; trust me. They made money. Probably a LOT of money. Question is, did you get a good value that honestly will save you money in the future? Provide a benefit/value in the future? Hopefully. Apparently, not for many. And since you are in a different country, you are playing by a diff' set of rules. The laws are different. Additionally, you're on vacation in a diff' mind set, wanting MORE of this. Many drop their guard. Whatever the reason, some sign up when they never should have. Hell, many do this same things back home with Timeshares, which is a whole other issue I've avoided in my lifetime.
Below, I've tried to bring some of the info together for those contemplating going down this path. Probably the only thing stopping me from attending a presentation in the future is I don't want to be locked into a single option for future vaca's. I like to change it up, to include AirBnBs in Mexico now. But hey ..... it's makes sense for some. Maybe for you.
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CLUB Overview via FB group (circa 2015) -
Here is some of the information I received about the vacation club. It is in fact a vacation club and it is a 25 year membership. This is the info given to me by the gentleman I met with.
The member is granted:
A 25 year membership with Iberostar The Club.
The Grand Residence unlimited and unrestricted access to all resort inventory through out the year, paying the member´s fee.
Inscription and 10 years subscription to Selected Resorts ( timeshare world and vacation clubs exchange) and The Registry Collection ( FRACTIONAL OWNERSHIP EXCHANGE SYSTEM)
Access to all our Brands and Seasons.
Golf Access membership
Charter Yacht membership for 25 years.
25% discount on additional services provided by the hotel. ( ex. Spa, hotel shops)
Equity transfer to future product offered by The Club.
Complementary Star Prestige.
Private Star Prestige lounge, private sun terrace and wet areas, Star prestige beach area with Butler Service and Food and Beverage Presentations
Welcome Champagne Bottle and Fruit Platter (Moet Chandon)
Aromatherapy for a spa-like experience (by L’OCCITANE )
Exclusive Bath & Body products (by L’OCCITANE)
Home Theater system
Smart TV Entertaining Center
Nespresso Coffee Machine
Premium Wine and Liquor with 750 ml bottles: Whiskey, Ginebra, Ron, Vodka, Vino Blanco y Vino Tinto)
Superior Snack Package with assorted Chocolate, Cookies, Nuts and Chips
Private Check In
Priority Reservations for Specialty Restaurants booked trough Concierge
Grand Star Prestige Service available on Request i.e. Packing Un Packing
Sports Package 2 Golf Rounds for 5 night stay per person and 3 for a 6 night stay person (non transferable)
Butler Service and Food and Beverage Presentations
Airport Pick up and Drop off for every reservation
* The benefits will depend on the amount of nights and the type of brand.
** According to the Brand of Choice.
There are more details on the website that was linked here a few posts ago, www.iberostartheclub.com.
As it was explained to me, this is part of a long term strategy. It includes travel booking services to other properties than Iberostars. Memberships can be customized and financing is available and negotiable. They are also creating a loyalty program (which is long overdue) that will be separate from this vacation club.
When I met with him he was not trying to sell me the membership, but wanted me to have some information about it to be able to share with people here and on my blog. He told me the average presentation takes 90 minutes and I made it clear he was only getting 45 minutes of my time. Two hours passed by quickly and I still had more questions but the sun was feeling jealous that I was inside for so long. It is a complex program and it will be interesting to see what happens with it. I hope this information is useful
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COSTS: Couple of examples of cost disparities.
"$12,900.00 USD. With 25% due upfront before receiving discounts for any future stays. Then we would be charged the remaining balance in payments of $245.76 for the next 4 years at 9% interest"
"Ranges from $7000 US to $60000 US"
"top package went from 81K to 50K something). We told them we couldn't do that so they offered the cheapest package at a deal. (25K - 15K)"
"We just paid $24 for 15 years. They gave us one free week in the Grand Bavaro worth $ 3,000"
"...silver package and they already gave us 9 days free at the Grand Bavoro worth $4000, There are three levels blue the lowest then silver, gold and black. We love to use the Prestige lounge and the spacial bar on the beach. There are in their second year selling this scheme. I have the next three years Iberostar holidays paid for anywhere in the world! (not the Grand Series though) If you buy the black then they give you your money back after 25 years (not the interest). Membership to RCI is included. You have two weeks you an use for 15 years. The first five years there is no membership to pay! No blackout date"
"....membership was about $150,000. They offer every person something different- some are 30 year plans, some 7 year plans. The investment quickly changes multiple times when you talk to them"
" haha ours was $139,000. Sticker shock was real."
"Vacation club..you are paying for discounts..do the math before you buy. If you cant get a return on your investment in the time frame then it wont be for you."
"It’s not for everyone. But it does make you take time off. We bought a double black membership four years ago. We do vacation two to three times a year and we do save money. Just this year alone 10 days at the grand in Jamaica and 17 days in play mita we saves over two thousand dollars on iberostar double black members site by rebooking our vacation on Black Friday and over 4 thousand over trip advisor. But then again you have to travel to save and we two get the money back after 20 years"
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CLUB LEVELS
Light Blue: Example A -$10,000 . Example B - $6300
BLUE - Example 1$8,000
Example 2: which is a 10 year plan, and cost us $19,950. For that, we were given $10,000 flight money as part of their fly back program (Not normally included in the Blue or Silver Plans)
Silver: $4975. Two Free Weeks a year. 15 Years
GOLD (above Blue): Deposit of 3k - 4500 : Cost $10,000
BLACK : starts at $38K for a 25 year membership . Example B: $102,000 USD. Example C: $69,000. Example D: $55,000
Black II (Double?) : Cost?
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UPDATE!!!!
I joined a FB group today and Kris provided me this info... best I've seen to date
Base cost is 10-12 k light blue, blue. Gets you basic stuff
Vip access and dinner every night, 2 massages or golf per week.
7 years, 10-12 years. Also gets 25% off bottom line resorts. Tucan quetzal Cozumel Del Mar paraiso beach... only
Silver gets same but % includes selection resorts, Lindo, Maya, Cancun.
Gold gets grand and everything else
Black is like 25 years, and may have an annuity involved that pays you back in 25 years what you paid.
Most now offer Flyback. Usually included in the club membership, but run by a separate shitty company of assholes
So... as member I get member site with my rates.
I can book directly, doing that also get free healthcare
Regular rack rate is 1500... a good deal.
A month later I see a budget place offer same room, same time for 1100... well, that invokes the best rate clause.
1100 is ok, but not my 1000.... but 1100 - 25% is 825.
So I screen shot the deal, email the club, they refund me the difference
You can keep doing it till the day before you go
Your membership is good for 52 weeks a year. Go one day, or all 365. No blackouts, no max weeks
You get 6 slots for people. You, spouse, and 4 more
All get same benefits, all treated like royalty
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Sources ( https://www.iberostartheclub.com/en/the-club/ ) ( https://www.bbb.org/us/az/phoenix/profile/vacation-certificates-and-vouchers/iberostar-the-club-1126-1000049081/complaints?fbclid=IwAR0pOkrPmvaLMC2H9YySlRcKUomNNMkIDRGPB7LIGRhUusnQy_T-I1HhVws#0 )
CONS:
JUNE 2020:
Myself and my husband went on holiday last to an Iberostar Hotel in Mexico. We were offered a free massage if we attended a welcome meeting, during this welcome meeting - we were encouraged to drink alcohol and given a tour of the hotel and scammed into buying a membership package. We were offered discounted holidays if we booked directly with Iberostar if we became a member of their club and lied to right from the start. They made many promises, all of which are false - we were also pressured into signing on the spot - we were not even allowed to discuss it privately or look at our phones to look online at the reviews. We were only able to see/hear what they showed or told us. When we arrived back home, we were still waiting for our login details to be able to book a holiday with the website or over the phone - approximately a month later when we eventually received our log in details and to our horror, we found out it was actually cheaper to via a travel agent than directly with Iberostar. We have raised several complaints - all of which has been ignored to date. I am in the process of raising a complaint t with the chairman in the hopes to receive a reply and to come to a resolution of the matter. So far, they have fraudulently taken £5,100.79 of our money and we are absolutely disgusted with the sales staff who clearly lie for their own financial gain - the customer service staff are equally horrific and never respond to any emails. Terrible company ethics, sales and customer service staff. Complete scam!
July 2019:
I attended the sale speech I was told just like the rest of the group that with the purchase of the membership I will get 25% on the hotel of the regular price offered to the rest of the public and also if I found a chipper airline ticket online that the one they offer trought rci they will match and give me an extra 25% off of the price. They also offered on the package RCI timeshares where I would be able to to anywhere including ****** ***** I called RCI and they advise Iberostar misled us because that was not included on the package. I contacted iberostar in regards of all the lies they offered us and the rest of the group and they refused to help they claimed that is not what was offered but I wasn't the only one offered this I heard this being offered to the rest of the group. They also told us that wi will always have availability on the hotels I tried to booked a vacation and they show sold out for 4 months so i can't not vacation anytime in the winter
June 2019:
On March 4th, 2019 I was staying at the Iberostar Punta Cana in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. My travel companion and I attended a presentation selling the Iberostar Club. We decided to enroll in the program and put down a $2,725 deposit towards the Club Membership. We were told that we had 5 days to cancel the membership, less any gifts we accepted. We were promised a room upgrade and a private yacht tour as part of our gifts. On May 5th, 2019 we moved over to our upgraded room and went on the yacht tour. On 5/7/19 I tried to access some of the Club Membership websites (RCI and trendsetter) and didn't have access. On 5/8/19 I sent an email to member services and requested to cancel my membership as my travel companion and I separated and I couldn't afford the membership by myself. On 5/9/19 Darla Woodring emailed me trying to get me to keep the membership but I insisted on cancelling. She ensure me that she would forward it to the appropriate people for cancellation. On 5/10/19 I still had not received confirmation so I emailed again requesting confirmation of cancellation and refund of my deposit, in which I was told it takes 48 hours to process. By 5/15/19 I still didn't receive anything from member services so I emailed Darla once again asking for it to be cancelled and confirmed, and she still has not responded. It is now a month later and I still have not had my membership cancelled or my deposit refunded.
Dec 2018:
We joined the Iberostar Club and it is a total scam. The things they promised are not giving from the sales pitch. Wew returned to the resort to review these amenities and they told us that we do not get any of what was promised including the return of our money after 10 years. We were told we would travel cheaper and it is triple the cost to book through the club, we were told we would have an assistant to book the best priced trips and flights which they do not do at all, we were promised free transfers and we were charged. Upon reviewing this with the club manager they tried to get us to give them more money and up sale us to the next level of membership promising us all the things we were originally promised. this is a total scam.
Oct 2018:
While on vacation in Punta Cana, we attended a Vacation Club presentation on 9/18/2018. We were scammed into investing in Black II Membership, salesman said was an investment into an annuity (w/Lloydshare) that would double @ maturity. Salesman, Julio, & his boss were very pushy & made claims that turned out to be lies. The boss SPECIFICALLY said Lloydshare was associated with Lloyds of London, we shouldn’t be concerned about loss, it was a guaranteed return. Included: 2 weeks @ flat rate of $279 each @ any Iberostar Resort. They calculated savings of flat rate, 4 airline tickets, spa services, luxury private transfers, privilege benefits, & $2300 Iberostar credits, to show our next few trips would be free & value of membership. They said w/Yacht program, we could take a yacht out “for the day” (included captain & chef) & only pay for fuel & tip. THIS IS NOT THE CASE. The Club says account type is Loan? The 2 weeks were not for Iberostar, only RCI. RCI has a daily mandatory all-inclusive fee (varies depending on resort $300-600 per person). Researched Lloydshare: not associated w/Lloyds of London & US Securities & Ex Com warns to only invest w/Loydshare if willing to lose, its not guaranteed/insured. All yachts have fees in addition to fuel, as high as $900, can only be taken out for 3-4 hrs. Only 25% discount @ Iberostar resorts (only place to use $2300 credits). Several attempts to cancel were made starting 10/2 (7 days after cancellation period ended) but ignored, I got through rude Rep to speak w/Christina on 10/12. We requested someone contact us ASAP to cancel the membership. On 10/25/2018, Michel London phoned, said the committee approved our cancellation request but refused to refund all money. She’d tried to get some refund but couldn’t. Claimed salesman said Lloydshare was “like” Lloyds of London. I asked her to please email the details so I’d have it in writing. Her email was not clear & stated the committee had denied cancellation with full refund.
Oct 2018:
I was pressured into purchasing the membership at their Montego Bay location. The cost, benefits were falsely presented to us. We were lied to regarding the attachment to RCI and the costs associated with booking our time with them. I kept asking the same questions as I was trying to understand and had the sales man go over how everything worked and told him i was stressed out. It took over 5 hours in total and i kept saying how upset i was over losing one of our last days being in the office. He said over and over again that we needed to do this now and wouldnt be able to have another chance at the membership. he then "threw in extra iberocash" for our time when we were signing. He said if we bought the membership coming back there would only cost us approx 900 for what we paid over 7000 for. He explained to us what we would be entitled to on top of what "normal members' would receive as my husband is a citizen of Jamaica and because they were doing business in "his" country we were entitled to more benefits. I couldn't get answers from the call centre since Monday when I called. it wasn't until today (which magically is a day after the 5 day grace period) that I had contact with the office. They said they cant help me because they don't see what I was told. I notified them as well that I had to correct my info online and that they have our personal information incorrect in their files and on the paperwork (which is not what I read and initialed in their office) (The paperwork was in the folder they gave us) and I have had nothing but problems in trying to get answers. I told a representative I wanted to cancel and asked if I needed a lawyer.
Oct 2018:
Requested cancellation of membership due to benefits dispute. Star Prestige is not offered in American Hotels which is convenient for American tourists. This is not offered and a big selling point from the salesperson on the island. The only part that upset me is the company not taking ownership for misrepresenting the product at the point of sale. I just want to cancel and never do business with this company again in life. Please see last email below to company: I have had time to sit down and provide a response to our conversation. I have attached Addendum No 1 to membership Agreement. Please see page 6 under Third - Benefits and Discounts paragraph "Additionally, when THE CLIENT stays in Iberostar Hotels, not included in the category of Hotels Iberostar Club Resorts, it will have as a privilege the access to the Lounge and "Star Prestige" exclusive areas only if this service is available, and based on the type of contracted membership. My issue is this service is not available in either of the US Iberostar Hotels New York or Miami. How can my husband and I enjoy without incurring the cost of flights to fly to us to Mexico, Jamaica, or DR. The Star Prestige was the selling point from Ibeorostar in Jamaica "Peta-Gay *********, Contracts Manager. Also, as discussed if I can I do not want to be harassed by Iberostar collection agency and just THE CLIENT and THE AGENCY just part was amicably. I upgraded because I liked Iberostar and what is had to offer but when I tried to use this product in Miami this is when the problem occurred because the benefits are not offered and I feel as if THE AGENCY is just trying to stop around the issue. I am a fair person and like to be treated as such with a fair negotiation between both parties. I hope this satisfies your timeline and pressuring to respond.
Oct 2018"
I have been an Iberostar club blue level member since 2015. On a recent vacation to The Iberostar Rose hall beach (August 11-August 17 2018) in Jamaica my wife and I were approached by the club sales staff to consider upgrading our membership with the full understanding that if for any reason within the 5 business days from signing the contract (August 16th 2018) we decided not proceed, we will receive a refund of the deposit of $2800 we paid and will stay at our previous membership level. This was stated specifically by the club manager Mr. ******. On arriving home, I sent a letter to the club customer service on August 18 2018 stating that we are no longer going to proceed with the gold membership and will stay with our blue membership which has been been fully paid for since 2017. However instead of honoring our request your staff at the club office offered us an alternative membership, which we again declined. I contacted the club manager in Jamaica who sold us the upgrade and he reassured on numerous occasions that I will receive my refund. He even followed up with text messages that he had confirmed that my refund is being processed. However, as of the time of this complaint I am yet to receive a refund for my $2800. I must say I am running out of patience and this whole experience leaves a bitter taste and I am appalled at how an organization like Iberostar can treat someone like me who actually paid extra money to be a club member
Sep 2018:
On June 29 while vacationing at Iberostar Grand Rose Hall Jamaica, we along with another couple were given the Iberostar the Club (The Club) presentation and purchased the black membership. The representatives shared discounted rates for hotels/resorts through Iberostar as well as Trendsetter and Registry Collection. We were advised of the star prestige amenities and other benefits (improved amenities in the room, superior services, access to exclusive areas, massages, golf, etc.) that would be available immediately, but they did not honor some room amenities as well as spa massages for all of us. Although there was availability for the massages, we were denied and told we could have 2 instead of 4. My husband paid so I could have a massage, but he did not get one. Before leaving the resort, they credited our account for the 1 massage. After returning home and looking to book future trips with The Club, I found that I could obtain lower prices through a 3rd party supplier. When I inquired about getting the amenities if I book through a 3rd party, I was told they could not honor the request. To obtain amenities I would have to book through The Club. The contract does not state that amenities are only guaranteed if booked through The Club. I understand the resort discount has to be booked through The Club, but members are entitled to the amenities no matter how booked based on the contract. I regret we were not able to resolve this issue with the company.
Aug 2018:
My family and I were on vacation in Mexico this spring at Iberostar Paraiso Del Mar. We were invited to hear some info about becoming a "club member". It's a membership to receive 25% discount from the Iberostar website to stay at any Iberostar resort. We were presented with this membership &, the "very pushy" man led us to believe that we could come back to the same location for a fraction of the price. The membership price was $12,900.00 USD. With 25% due upfront before receiving discounts for any future stays. Then we would be charged the remaining balance in payments of $245.76 for the next 4 years at 9% interest. We were very hesitant to sign up because of the cost of the membership. The man was extremely persistent & wouldn't take no for an answer. He then preceded to ask me why I didn't want to sign up. I told him it was just too expensive & saw no benefit. He then asked how much it cost for us to stay at the resort per person per night. I told him it was approx. $120 per person per night. He then wrote down on a piece of paper that we could stay for $50 per person per night. That's less than 1/2 price if we became members. That $50 was what made my wife, four teenage children & I sign up. We saw how much money we could save on future stays. Now in August when I went to the Iberostar website to book our next family vacation, it isn't $50 per person per night. It is more like $160 with my 25% off for being a member. I was floored by this. I did some online research and found out that I could go back to the same resort for cheaper with my travel agent than being a club member. Travel agency is FREE. So I contacted Iberostar the club to tell them that we were lied to & wanted to cancel. They said we couldn't, that we signed paperwork. We signed up 04-11-18. I explained that we were told lies and that I wanted a full refund. We don't want this rip off membership. They aren't willing to refund my $3,716.52. It's only been 4 months. They are liars and thieves!
APR 2018:
08/01/2018
On April 8th, 2018, I sat through a presentation with my sister, Marie ****, regarding Iberostar vacation packages. We were there on a family vacation, my sister and I and my 4 children. Having just lost our father to a tough battle with cancer, we were there for a well-deserved rest. Based on the presentation, my sister and I signed up for Gold package, depositing $4,475 and $3,000 respectively. At that time both my sister and I heard that we had thirty (30) days to review. Upon returning home we were disappointed to find out that problems with our father's estate was going to eliminate the inheritance we were both to receive, the funds from which we would be able to purchase your vacation package, a condition which we had communicated to the sales staff during and after the presentation. At that juncture on April 25th, I contacted our rep, Anna Martinez and had further communication with Oliver Hemeny, as well. They then proceeded to tell me that we had only 5 days to review the contract. I was dismayed to find this out and communicated that, based on the fact that we were still on vacation during the entire 5 day period during which we were supposed to read and understand a 45 page contract. Based on our circumstances we are no longer, as two single working mothers, able to afford the down payment, much less the ongoing payments. The staff indicated they would try to help and put us in touch with corporate who we had to write to, presenting our position. Upon writing to corporate in Curacao, I received a written notice that the contract was in force and there was nothing we could do about it. The person offered to postpone payments for a period of 90 days which I accepted with the specific caveat that this time would allow me to get this resolved.
Mar 2018:
I signed up for the Iberostar Club while vacationing at one of their resorts. When I returned home, I sent an email and spoke with a representative stating that I wanted to cancel my membership to the club. They have refused to cancel my membership. They want me to pay for a membership that I have never used and don't want.
Feb 2018:
I was with my family last year in an iberostar hotel on Jamaica on vacation. I once wanted to visit the Grand Hotel and unfortunately I do not speak English. After several hours, I was accused of club membership and deducted a few thousand dollars from my credit card. I was told something that I am now a member for 10 years and pay a membership fee annually for 4 years. I was also told that I get my contract documents still sent in German. Back in Germany, I should suddenly pay a lot of money. There is neither a bank account in the documents nor did I get anything in German. I've already tried to call and email, but my English is almost zero.
Jan 2017:
On 1/23/2017, I ****** ***** purchased a "Silver" membership in the amount of $4,975.00 at the Iberostar location in Montego Bay, Jamaica. After returning home and attempting to use the service to book a vacation, I realized that the service we were described and sold was not what was being delivered. After numerous emails and phone calls to book another vacation with Iberostar went unsuccessful, I asked for a full refund and to terminate my account. They have terminated my account but will not refund the $4,975.00.
https://www.complaintsboard.com/iberostar-the-club-c858230
July 2019:
Stayed at Cancun resort. December 3-10 2016.Last day did club sales. High pressure, almost missed flight. Was told by BOTH salesmen 50% off and come back here. I said i wanted the exact room, same week, was told no problem. Signed for $10, 000. Charged $2500 balance in payments.
Now March, looked into booking room... My level of club ( light blue) not eligible for ANY discount at cancun. Only Premium... Not Premium Gold.
Also, any discounts to other resorts are 25% off THEIR rack rates. Not %50.
I did not assume any of these numbers. I asked for a direct example. Was shown 120/120 for me and wife, add 90 for upgrade to villa. Saw him write it down. They showed me and the Mrs. We agree we saw the same thing. Condescending #####s on phone say " Well, if its not in your contract, it doesn't exist."... Talked to lawyer, was told high pressure tactics, bait and switch, and signing under duress are all reasons to void contract.
APR 2019:
Similar issues to all of u. I called yesterday for an outstanding balance on my account. It is wrong by my calculations by $1500USD. Not to mention the scam. I spoke to Ronnie yesterday and he said his system was glitching and couldn’t get me the transaction history. Was gonna send today.
He did not send anything. And now when I call the number, it disconnects me. So I can’t even call them. I’ve contacted the Canadian number and the US number. Same thing happened.
Nov 2018:
I have been an Iberostar club blue level member since 2015. On a recent vacation to The Iberostar Rose hall beach (August 11-August 17 2018) in Jamaica my wife and I were approached by the club sales staff to consider upgrading our membership with the full understanding that if for any reason within the 5 business days from signing the contract (August 16th 2018) we decided not proceed, we will receive a refund of the deposit of $2800 we paid and will stay at our previous membership level. This was stated specifically by the club manager Mr. Thomas. On arriving home, I sent a letter to the club customer service on August 18 2018 stating that we are no longer going to proceed with the gold membership and will stay with our blue membership which has been been fully paid for since 2017. However instead of honoring our request your staff at the club office offered us an alternative membership, which we again declined. I contacted the club manager in Jamaica who sold us the upgrade and he reassured on numerous occasions that I will receive my refund. He even followed up with text messages that he had confirmed that my refund is being processed. However, as of the time of this complaint I am yet to receive a refund for my $2800. Instead they customer service stated they will only downgrade us to a blue membership for a high price meaning we don't get our refund.
If anyone is starting a class action lawsuit, I am ready to participate. My email address is unyime@gmail.com
MAR 2018:
I am done with Iberostar for the same reason. If I want to be treated like I am at a used car lot, I will go to one. The so-called "Club" is basically a high-pressure scam that wastes your precious vacation time and never delivers on their promises. They have lost a loyal customer of 20 years but the management at Paraiso Maya didn't seem to care. Their management team would be fired at any place that I ever worked
Jan 2018
I am going through a similar situation. Lots of promises broken identical to your issue. So far I'm being told that they have done nothing wrong and If I fail to continue to pay they will not refund my money. As of now we attempted to do an exact duplicate of the vacation we took last year and it has proven to be just as expensive, No airfare included, no transportation included and the all inclusive price was almost exactly the same as last year which we purchased for just over 4200 dollars airfare included and transportation. Now, were are told just the hotel would be 3600 dollars and we would have to provide our own transportation by ground and Air. Over 5K for the same trip we booked without this club membership. SCAM!!!
July 2017:
We went to the sales pitch at Iberostar in Rose hall Jamaica. After a 3 hour high pressure sales pitch, we signed up for the club. Nothing is as promised. I have not been able to access their website since paying $2500 down payment. Nothing includes airfare as promised. My credit card was supposed to be used for automatic payments. They made a mistake somehow and put down that I would pay with deductions from my bank account. Instead of contacting me, they instantly put me in collections after they did not receive their first payment. I told the collection agency there was a mistake. They refused to listen and continued to call me at work, embarrassing me in front of my employees. I told them to not call me at work, but they continued to call, One day the owner of the company was there, and I was reprimanded for getting personal calls at work. They are putting my job in danger! I called 3 different numbers and was transferred a 6 times before finally being able to talk to a representative. The representative admitted that it was their mistake. I asked for them to send me in writing admitting their mistake. I also wanted in writing that their collection agency would admit that I never should have been put in collections. i haven't received any letters. I just continue to get harassing phone while at work every single day. I regret ever signing up with them. They are fraudulent and are trying to destroy the credit I have worked so hard to build. avoid Iberostar the Club. Do not sign up for this scam.
https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g1-i10700-k10244687-Iberostar_the_Club_Scam-Timeshares_Vacation_Rentals.html
2018:
We purchased the silver membership in 2015. So far it has been nothing but lies. We joined with the intention of only using the grand resorts and were assured the 25% discount would be applied to the grand resorts. This was a direct lie. We are also given 10K points to learn we only have 5K. The free transportation is not included in our package as promised also. So far I have not found 1 truth in our presentation that sold us on the membership. I would strongly advise staying far away from this program/scam.
Funny but .. true!
REPLY to above: 99% of the times its the buyer fault, BECAUSE YOU DONT READ THE CONTRACT!!!!!, if the force you to sign i understand, but it was a free option that you took, and make you learn, next time read what are you buying, not all the time its the fault of the HOTELS or this programs...... just saying
REPLY to above: We didn't read the contract because we trusted our representative. After spending over 2 hours with the representative, who wants to spend 2 hours reading every little sentence in a contract? Also, the way the contract is worded isn't clear. Rep told us we would get more than 25% based on what season it was. Even after reading the contract, it states 25% is guaranteed, so we thought the greater sales are seasonal so it would be IMPLIED
2016:
Don!t be scammed! Avoid like the plague. It!s a very sophisticated, pre-planned, orchestrated presentation. Nothing they promise is true. From the moment you arrive, they con you if you are a repeat customer. They receive extensive training in the art. Once you sign, you,re out big bucks.
They tell you that Lloyds of London will refund you the total amount I x number of years. Keep in mind that today's dollars will probably be less than 40 percent in 15 to 20 years.
Reports of their travel agents finding you cheap fares is a joke. Reviews I read are that they might save you 16 cents over what you can find yourself.
They are trained to hear your complaints, agree with you, promise to look into it and call you back. I received a voice mail from customer service stating to email my concerns but no email address was provided. Promisses to return my call never occurred. I,m writing to every travel magazine to avoid iberostar club membership.
2016:
A major ripoff! Avoid! They are smooth, but you will lose thousands of dollars with nothing to show for it but a sense severe remorse. The workers there are great, but the club membership team are con artists. Iberostar is about to sell some of their assets to the Carlyle group. This is a scam to raise capital.
2016:
Iberostar Resorts are selling "Iberostar The Club," but Iberostar The Club benefits are a fraud. We were promised substantial discounts from Iberostar rates as an Iberostar The Club Member, but those discounts are not real. "Iberostar The Club" promised us free and discounted weeks of vacation at RCI Resorts and Hotels (like Disney), but we could never book where we wanted to go when we wanted to go (you can never get into Disney). "Iberostar The Club" is a scam, and its salespeople lie to you. We have been in contact with many other unhappy Iberostar Club Members, and are in the process of trying to find more. If you bought an Iberostar The Club Membership, please send your feedback and whether you are interested in sharing information about getting a refund or real value for what you paid. We are exploring all of our options, including legal ones. Please contact: cblc3@yahoo.ca
2016:
We are presently at the Iberostar and went through the presentation yesterday. When they started their pitch we asked for numbers several times and they avoided them every time. There were two of them making the pitch, one female and one male. It reminded me of the old shady car dealerships. Every once in a while, the guy would leave and them come back with a better deal. When they showed the prices I nearly sh*t myself. Of course, they had a deal (the top package went from 81K to 50K something). We told them we couldn't do that so they offered the cheapest package at a deal. (25K - 15K)
Then there are all the variables that can come into play. They offer cheap airfare, room discounts, special privileges, discounts at hundreds of hotels, discounts at their online store..... Of course they guarantee that you will get what you want. The reality is this; there are only a limited number of suites available at a given time. There are only a limited number of cheap seats available on any plane. Do you really think an airline is going to fill seats with customers who pay only $400 when there's no shortage of higher paying customers?(the $400 doesn't include airport fees or taxes, which in Canada can add 400+ to the price) Do you really think that you can get Disney at the rates they promise? You can wish upon a star all you want but it ain't going to happen.
When we told them we had to consult our advisor, the pitch became more aggressive. They point out many times during the presentation that this is a "first view" offer and that these deals are only good during the presentation. They even tried to get us to sign a document acknowledging this that would give away our right to negotiate them back.
If you are going to get into an arrangement like this you need a lawyer to go over the contract. They will not give you the time to do this. Sign now or you loose the deals. You have to remember that you are bound by the laws in the DR. You will not have the same protections you have back home and you will be dealing with the legal system in a foreign country that is different from home.
To anybody who reads this and is considering the investment, ask them during the presentation if you can have your lawyer go over the contract. They will tell you that the offer is only available that day, at that time. If you don't sign, you don't get the deals. That should be your signal to walk.
2020:
I don't know about you, but my investments netted me a 35% gain in the last year. They are interested in you paying up front because of the value of that money. That money is valuable to you. Invest it wisely. Anybody buying into this is an idiot.
Oct 2020:
Same high pressure- boiler room tactics. I was promised up to 50% off room rates even though the contract stated that 25% was the minimum. I questioned it and the sales person and his manager assured me that I would get the lower "travel agent rate" most of the time. I have tried to book several times since I purchased April 16, 2017 for $19, 900 and have not been quoted anything lower that what I can find for anyone on their website! At this point, I want my money back. I love their hotels however, I don't appreciate being defrauded. I was actually told that if I found a lower rate on line they would match it...seriously are you kidding me what did I pay all of this money for. Buyer beware!
POSITIVES:
May 2016:
My husband and I recently visited Grand Hotel Paraiso as Iberostar the Club Black level members. It was a wonderful experience. Our account manager Alfredo made the booking and our specifically assigned concierge Natasha made all the arrangements in advance,including private transportation both ways to/from Cancun International Airport and all our dinner reservations. Valeria, who manages the concierge service, met us for a private check-in. Then for the whole week we received superb service from all staff we encountered. This was our second visit here in six months and the first experience was equally excellent.
2018:
We have friends that spent over $30k about 2 years ago and from what they claim and what we have seen, it has been worth ever cent.
They negotiated in a whole bunch of conditions, with a few that starting paying off almost immediately.
First, they signed a 25 year package.
Their 4 children were written is as beneficiaries, in case something ever happens to them.
They negotiated free massages, free golf and and upgrade to an ocean front room for every trip.
They also received a free trip for 6 adults to Iberostar Grand in Mexico... everything included other than flights...
they also get 35% off of every trip they take.
As well, they get the entire amount they paid back after the 25 years (no interest).
They also recently booked a villa in Spain for two weeks for $400. They say it was one of the nicest places they have ever been.
They tell me they are around $20G in savings.
This is straight from a club member.
2020:
We joined the club last year in Iberostar Cancun. We joined at the Blue level, which is a 10 year plan, and cost us $19,950. For that, we were given $10,000 flight money as part of their fly back program (Not normally included in the Blue or Silver Plans), $3,600 Iberostar Credits, 4 system wide upgrade certificates (meaning we can use our membership at any category hotel), and a minimum of 25% off all Iberostar hotels. All plans also include access to Trendsetter, a website that gives heavy discounts to over 400,000 hotels worldwide, and 2 weeks RCI access a year.
This year, we paid $1335 to go to Iberostar Punta Cana for 12 nights, but were invited to stay at the Iberostar Grand Bavaro instead at no additional cost - obviously we said yes to the complimentary upgrade! Whilst staying there, we went along to another Iberostar Club talk to explain about our membership again, and to offer an upgrade of membership plans. Our representative explained the differences between the Silver ($32,945) and Gold ($37,945) plans, and asked if we were interested in either. The silver plan was offered at $32,945, minus the $19,950 we had already paid for the Blue plan - which would leave us to pay $12,995 for the Silver Plan. With our wedding scheduled for next August, we declined their offer. The representative then offered us the Silver Plan for 18 years (normally 15) plus another $10,000 flight money, which would mean it would only cost us $2,995 to upgrade from Blue to Silver. Now having 2 fly back programs totalling $20,000, and extending our Membership from 10 years to 18 years, we said yes to their offer to upgrade to Silver! What a result!
Next year, we'll upgrade to Gold for an additional $5k, which is a 20 year plan, includes the fly back program of $10,000, and gives you your entire investment back at the end of the plan. So basically, we get all of our money back, $30,000 of flight contributions which our family can also use, 20 years of Star Prestige, numerous massages per guest, room upgrades, hotel discounts, and other member perks for us and our family.
So for us, the membership plan has and will benefit us and our family for the next 20 years, saving us a lot of money, with nothing to lose!
So to those saying the Iberostar Membership is a scam, it's not. You've either not read the contract correctly, poorly negotiated a deal, or jumped into something without giving it proper thought, and are now regretting something that perhaps just isn't for you.
2020:
I am a member.
I comes down to this question are you going to go to Iberostar a couple times a year? If so it is a no brainer.
Plus if you have family members that wants to go to Iberostar a couple of times a year it is a real no brainer.
I just got back from Cozumel, 12 people went all got the Club price off plus all of the perks. Over $4000 saved on this trip alone. I went to NYC and stayed at the Iberostar in midtown and saved another $850ish on 2 rooms for 3 nights.
Your parents, sibblings, children and grandchildren are all able to enjoy our discount. Along with 4 other indirect beneficiaries can also be added to your membership.
If you don't want to go to Iberostar's next year and each year after, don't sign up. If you do go, run to sign up.
I "should" get all of my money back in 20 years and will easily save twice the amount over this time in savings/flight back program$1000 per year) not to mention all of the perks we will receive.
The one thing it is not is a SCAM. If you signed something and now regret it, it is on you. They read every page of the 25 page contract in front of you before you can sign, if you are too stupid to understand or even listen then one again it is on you. There was no pressure, sure they were enthusiastic with what they were offering, would you ever buy something like this if they we not.
Plus they are going to add Club services to the existing 100 plus properties and will open all inclusive resorts in Cabo and Aruba this year. They are huge in Spain so if you want to spend some time there, this would be another perk.
Sep 2020:
I find some of these posts outright lies. I suspect they are guessing and assuming a lot.
I just Re signed for my second contract. I’m covered for the next 15 years.
We aren’t rich. We go to Mexico 1x, very rarely 2x a year. We have no kids.
We go with other people , some times 2 more, sometimes 4 more people.
Here are the facts.
It’s not for everyone.
Unless you are willing to plan it out, last minute trips or pkg deals can be same cost or cheaper, (southwest vacations)
Yes it’s expensive ( initial capital outlay)
We bought basic level. It’s no where near 35k.
We get access to private booking site with discounted rates.
We get reduced rates for our friends and family too. So any savings is x2 or x3.
We get 1000 back a year for 10 years as rebate on flights.
For these reasons alone, financially ( math) it makes sense.
As added bonus....
Vip at resorts
Upgraded booze
Private seating and beaches
Discounted trips and tours
Early and late checkout
Private bars
Bookings for restaurants every night.
Sometimes room upgrades.
We also get codes to give out to friends for discounts.
Take the offer , grab as much free stuff as incentives a possible.
Take notes, do the math. If you save money , buy in, if not, then don’t.
Oh.... if they say a specific time,,, bring a timer.
Got a go pro? Bring that too.
Yes, some sales people lie. That’s not Iberostar, that’s the sales person.
ADDED TO THE ABOVE!
I will assume you are replying to my post, as there is nothing under yours...
What does it cost?
Depends. Club levels range from lt blue, blue, silver, gold, black, dbl black and I thing coral now.
Each has year lengths 5-25
Basic will include club access and vip that you can buy on a day rate , no contract. Also includes dedicated 1800#, staff, and private website. 25 % off rack rate, and guaranteed 10% better than any other web rate.
Also discounted tours and trips booked at resort.
There are sales we get sometimes that bring booking down to 50% off.
My membership includes a flight rebate of 10000, 1k a year for 10 years .
I can include 4 other people , same benefits, no extra cost.
We usually go with my parents and aunt & uncle so 3 couples, 3 rooms
So ....math...
Savings of 3000-4500 ( 4600 this year ) per year .. call it 3750 x15= 56250
Plus my 10k rebates ... 10000+ 56250= 66250 in savings over 15 years
What I paid them is less than 20% of that.
I also got credits , that also adds to my savings.
The bonus booze in the room, the sectioned off areas, the nice wine with dinner, no claiming a pool chair at 5am, dinner in the restaurant every night, free transport to and from airport.... just icing on the cake.
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