Unwelcome experience

[Garagesalegroupe]

My friends and I made use of a “stay and play” rental thus past week. We looked up an activity in the daily section the newspaper and found an evening activity. Upon arrival to the rec center at designated time, was pointed to person in charge of activity. This person then preceded to grill us of where we will lived and then were told this activity was only for said person’s friends, and folks that live in that particular village. We left feeling very unwelcome. I was under the impression a villager could make use of any rec center or activity. I’m thinking if it was only for certain ppl, maybe it shouldn’t be listed in the newspaper? Maybe I’m wrong....

[Kilmacowen]

You need a Villages ID to attend any activity at the Rec centers. Some rooms are booked for private parties. There are also clubs that you can join for a small membership fee, again, you need a Villages ID.

Could you give more information?

[graciegirl]

My friends and I made use of a “stay and play” rental thus past week. We looked up an activity in the daily section the newspaper and found an evening activity. Upon arrival to the rec center at designated time, was pointed to person in charge of activity. This person then preceded to grill us of where we will lived and then were told this activity was only for said person’s friends, and folks that live in that particular village. We left feeling very unwelcome. I was under the impression a villager could make use of any rec center or activity. I’m thinking if it was only for certain ppl, maybe it shouldn’t be listed in the newspaper? Maybe I’m wrong....

What was the activity that you tried to attend? I see after rereading your post that it was a Village group. Perhaps a social event or a pot luck for a certain neighborhood or some sort of entertainment that each person paid for in advance.. Many activites are open to all but some such as pottery require a course about techniques and use of equipment. The same room is open to all for ceramics. Some clubs such as the Long Island Club and the Cincinnati Club are filled up with waiting lists. Anyone can start a new club, taking responsibility for the room and it's rules.

It sometimes takes a while to see just how things work here, but I would be very surprised if the person who asked you for your I.D. and other questions was not respectful and polite.

[charmed59]

I would complain to the paper. They should not be advertising groups that are not open to all Villagers. If the OP was on a lifestyle visit they did have a villages ID card that would get them into rec centers.

[JimJohnson]

I must go with the organized group and say they have the right to say who can and not attend. If the article in the paper did not specifically say OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC, I would understand that to be a member only event.

[Marathon Man]

I would complain to the paper. They should not be advertising groups that are not open to all Villagers. If the OP was on a lifestyle visit they did have a villages ID card that would get them into rec centers.

Oh please. All activities are listed. Otherwise the room would appear to be empty and available.

[redwitch]

Some clubs are restricted. If a group uses a rec center on a regular basis, it will be listed regardless of restrictions. There is usually a contact number you can call to find out if it is open to everyone or if there are any restrictions. I know of a poker group I would dearly love to join. Unfortunately, women are not welcome and they have the right to restrict who plays even though it is held at a rec center every other Friday.

I’m sorry you were made to feel unwelcome. It sounds like it could have been handled better by the organizer. Rather than grilling, she could have started by explaining the restrictions and either invited you to join with you having the knowledge you’d be a total outsider or kindly let you go on your way with a simple apology.

[John_W]

"Stay and Play Rental" sounds like a marketing gimmick, I never heard of that and I've lived here 8 years. The Villages has a program called LSV (Lifestyle Visit), it's on their website. You can stay in a Village home or villa and use all the facilities and play one round of championship golf and one round of executive golf. It's $99 a night up to $149 a night depending on the season and is normally for a stay of 4 to 14 days.

Owners renting their homes to non-owners must get guest passes for the renters to use all the Villages facilities. I would bring this up with the rental agency or owner that you contracted with that their advertising is misleading.

[Velvet]

Just wondering too, I have not heard of “Stay and Play” either. You may have rented from someone who did not tell you that you need a Village ID to “play”. Or maybe you weren’t renting in The Villages at all but perhaps somewhere near?

If you were on a Lifestyle visit, I’d call the sales office and ask for an explanation.

[redwitch]

Folks, it doesn’t sound like there was an ID issue, simply an issue with the club itself. Even though using the rec center, they consider themselves a private club. Not sure if entirely kosher, but not uncommon.

[Velvet]

In that case, the paper might mention “Timbuctoo Club it’s meeting (members only).” So no misunderstanding.

[bagboy]

The OP mentioned they took advantage of "stay and play" offered by someone, as if they were visitors. Then the OP said they thought "Villagers" were welcome anywhere, as if they lived here. I'm not really believing this thread is anything other than an attempt to make Villagers look bad. Maybe a troll from the Minton gang.

[Garagesalegroupe]

The OP mentioned they took advantage of "stay and play" offered by someone, as if they were visitors. Then the OP said they thought "Villagers" were welcome anywhere, as if they lived here. I'm not really believing this thread is anything other than an attempt to make Villagers look bad. Maybe a troll from the Minton gang.
Really? We were renting from the villages. They gave us ID badges to use during our stay. Group was advertised in the Villages Sun newspaper living section. This continues the narrative of rudeness...

[Garagesalegroupe]

We were given temp ID badges to use during our stay. Group advertised in living section of the Villages Daily Sun newspaper. I guess I misinterpreted that all groups/events listed were open to all.

[Love2Swim]

I tried joining a couple of book clubs that are advertised in the recreation newsletter. They are specific to a Village, I don't recall which villages - like the Belvedere Book Club, or the Hemingway book club for example. I was told I couldn't attend since I don't live in that particular village. I suppose they have the right to limit attendance in any way they choose, but I wouldn't call it very friendly. I used to belong to the Largo book club which welcomed everyone.

[Velvet]

Wouldn’t it be nice if everything was free and available for everyone....

[CWGUY]

Really? We were renting from the villages. They gave us ID badges to use during our stay. Group was advertised in the Villages Sun newspaper living section. This continues the narrative of rudeness...


:ho: I see nothing rude about that reply.

:ohdear: I've been here full time since 2004..... never heard of "stay and play" or "ID badges". Also the Villages doesn't rent..... they have a LIFESTYLE PREVIEW PLAN 4-7 nights.

:icon_wink: I think if I were you and thought there was a narrative of rudeness..... I would be looking to stay and play someplace else! :wave:

[CWGUY]

Wouldn’t it be nice if everything was free and available for everyone....

:faint: No!

[Bogie Shooter]

Really? We were renting from the villages. They gave us ID badges to use during our stay. Group was advertised in the Villages Sun newspaper living section. This continues the narrative of rudeness...

Why didn't you include this information in your original post......would have eliminated a lot of speculation.
And rudeness....

[dewilson58]

:ho: I see nothing rude about that reply.

:ohdear: I've been here full time since 2004..... never heard of "stay and play" or "ID badges". Also the Villages doesn't rent..... they have a LIFESTYLE PREVIEW PLAN 4-7 nights.

:icon_wink: I think if I were you and thought there was a narrative of rudeness..... I would be looking to stay and play someplace else! :wave:






:1rotfl:

[retiredguy123]

Just wondering too, I have not heard of “Stay and Play” either. You may have rented from someone who did not tell you that you need a Village ID to “play”. Or maybe you weren’t renting in The Villages at all but perhaps somewhere near?

If you were on a Lifestyle visit, I’d call the sales office and ask for an explanation.
In all fairness to the OP, The Villages web site calls their lifestyle preview plan "Stay and Play" which is what the OP originally said they were here for. So, they would have rented a house from The Villages and had visitor badges to use the rec centers and other facilities.

[redwitch]

We were given temp ID badges to use during our stay. Group advertised in living section of the Villages Daily Sun newspaper. I guess I misinterpreted that all groups/events listed were open to all.

Sadly, this is the fault of the rec department. They allow the private clubs but do nothing to let newcomers know that not every club is open to all. It would be nice if the newspaper would put asterisks next to closed clubs, but they probably have no idea which clubs are open. My rule thumb is if the club name has a village or neighborhood attached to it, I assume it is closed and not bother.

Again, the best thing to do is call the contact person. You’ll not only find out more details, such as cost, you’ll give them a head’s up so they know newbies are coming and can greet you appropriately. I call just to make sure a club isn’t full.

In the meantime, I hope you and your friend are having a good time and that a few bad incidents haven’t spoiled your stay.

[Mleeja]

Based on the comments posted so far, I doubt that the original poster is signing any sales contract soon. Maybe the poster didn’t used the correct “terms” to suit the commenters, but that is no basis for the rude comments. If an activity is listed in the paper it should be open to all comers. I have no problem with charging a guest fee if the group required a membership.

[retiredguy123]

Copied from thevillages.com web site:

"Lifestyle Preview Plan - Stay and Play"

[Velvet]

So that’s where they got it from. Sometimes elaborating on an issue helps others to understand.

[vintageogauge]

I wouldn't be too concerned about it, there is so much to do down here and so many activities that all are welcome to enjoy that there aren't enough hours in the day to do them all. Bunco for example is very popular and they limit the number of participants depending on which rec. center is hosting it. Lots to do, come on back down and relax. In two weeks the largest activity center in The Villages opens, Everglades Recreation Center it will add even more activities. I do think they will need a 24/7 EMT at the new soccer field though, Dr. Cook better start a second shift.

[John_W]

I remember in 2011 when I first moved here, some people invited us to a meeting of the Doo Whop Club at Colony Cottage Rec Ctr. We went, sat at a table of about 12 people, we drank our BYOB and they had some acts perform and discussed upcoming events and parties.

When the meeting ended, they said the membership is limited to 250, so if this was your first visit, you can't come back. If you would like to join write your name and phone on the list at the back and we'll call you when we have an opening. It was a nice way of knowing what goes on and if we were interested. They called us about 12 months later.

[EdFNJ]

My wife was "cross-examined" by the card scanning lady at the front door at Sea Breeze a year or so ago. She forgot her card/pocketbook, I had mine, one would think she was trying to sneak into an NSC meeting. It was really weird. Must have asked her 10 questions to PROVE she lived here. It was quite annoying yet very funny. I even provided a photo on my phone of us at our kids wedding. Eventually she very grudgingly relented and let her in to our golf cart club meeting (high security secret club :D ). Sometimes doing ones job goes to an extreme. Maybe that was position of the person who the OP ran into at he rec center in question and not the club meeting person.

[Buckeyephan]

There are many clubs/groups that are closed because of popularity. I am on a waiting list that has 250 names. I was invited to join another that also has a waiting list. Both are listed in the Daily Sun page that has rec center activities. Sorry that you were upset but even a full time resident who is also a homeowner will get turned away from closed groups.

[ColdNoMore]

Based on the comments posted so far, I doubt that the original poster is signing any sales contract soon. Maybe the poster didn’t used the correct “terms” to suit the commenters, but that is no basis for the rude comments. If an activity is listed in the paper it should be open to all comers. I have not problem with charging a guest fee if the group required a membership.

:bigbow:

[retiredguy123]

There are many clubs/groups that are closed because of popularity. I am on a waiting list that has 250 names. I was invited to join another that also has a waiting list. Both are listed in the Daily Sun page that has rec center activities. Sorry that you were upset but even a full time resident who is also a homeowner will get turned away from closed groups.
It seems to me that, if you have a waiting list of 250 people, you have more than enough people to just start another club.

[Velvet]

Lady “cross-examining” at rec center: probably due to all those outsiders trying to sneak in, without paying the amenity dues.

[Shimpy]

I must go with the organized group and say they have the right to say who can and not attend. If the article in the paper did not specifically say OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC, I would understand that to be a member only event.

Yes, groups or clubs can limit membership, such as Italians, Irish etc. Why would someone want to go to a function for people from Minnesota if they are not from Minnesota?

[NotGolfer]

It's all in interpretation perhaps. New folks probably need to be aware we're entering "high season" with snowbirds and renters who also take part in the activities here. Clubs/meetings fill up fast and there's sometimes a system in place to snag a spot. As mentioned "some" of these clubs are closed to members only. For instance if a room is reserved for a craft group it may be advertised of it's meeting...but that said, the room only holds so many and probably has a membership list. So not being inhospitable...but practical and safe for the fire marshall's rules. I know of one group that became so popular several others were started at other centers by interested parties. IF visiting...people wouldn't know any of this but would assume so I'm guessing that's what the OP experienced and were disappointed.

[Velvet]

And what if you need a certain type of facility, like a swimming pool (synchronized swimming) for a certain club?

[bagboy]

...,,,

[pauld315]

My friends and I made use of a “stay and play” rental thus past week. We looked up an activity in the daily section the newspaper and found an evening activity. Upon arrival to the rec center at designated time, was pointed to person in charge of activity. This person then preceded to grill us of where we will lived and then were told this activity was only for said person’s friends, and folks that live in that particular village. We left feeling very unwelcome. I was under the impression a villager could make use of any rec center or activity. I’m thinking if it was only for certain ppl, maybe it shouldn’t be listed in the newspaper? Maybe I’m wrong....

Pretty common. There are a lot of clubs etc that are listed in the recreation news that are closed to new participants or specific to a certain area.

[Marathon Man]

It seems to me that, if you have a waiting list of 250 people, you have more than enough people to just start another club.

Perhaps. But you would need volunteer organizers to make it happen. I have heard it many times - Why don't they have more ____ classes. Many wish to attend, few are willing to lead.

[EdFNJ]

Lady “cross-examining” at rec center: probably due to all those outsiders trying to sneak in, without paying the amenity dues. LOL, except it was obviously my wife and we both were wearing our official "Atomic Golf Cart" club shirts with our name on it. She must have thought I really went through a lot to try and sneak her into that meeting. Sometimes these folks need to chill out and use just a little bit of common sense. The following month there was NO ONE at the door scanning cards to keep out the riff-raff. Maybe someone tied her up and put her in a stall in the ladies room until all the meetings started. :1rotfl::1rotfl:

[thomp679]

:ho: I see nothing rude about that reply.

:ohdear: I've been here full time since 2004..... never heard of "stay and play" or "ID badges". Also the Villages doesn't rent..... they have a LIFESTYLE PREVIEW PLAN 4-7 nights.

:icon_wink: I think if I were you and thought there was a narrative of rudeness..... I would be looking to stay and play someplace else! :wave:


You are way out of line in your response to the OP. And for being here since 2004, longevity does not give you authority to talk down to people asking what would a legitimate question to a person new to how things work around here.

[Two Bills]

This thread should be with the 'Do you believe the News' thread.

Lack of information and facts leads to confusion, speculation and bad reporting!!:)

[Marathon Man]

Really? We were renting from the villages. They gave us ID badges to use during our stay. Group was advertised in the Villages Sun newspaper living section. This continues the narrative of rudeness...

The Villages has a group that acts as an agent for many residents who rent their homes. So, if you truely rented, it was from the home owner and not The Villages. The owner surrenders resident ID's so that the renters can take their place with "Renter ID's.

...or, you were on a lifestyle visit. In that case you are staying in a property owned by The Villages. You would have been given special ID's that only those on a lifestyle visit are given.

People are simply wondering what you meant in your post.

[stan the man]

Sounds like you did not get the kool-aid - next time ask for it

[graciegirl]

Sounds like you did not get the kool-aid - next time ask for it

Actually, no one drinks that stuff. Most of the mind altering qualities that make people rave how good this place is comes from the ice.

Many who get a hold of some "bad ice" are those who don't live here, have something to gain by promoting another place, or are jealous of our freedom to enjoy all these wonderful things....due to the fact they aren't old enough or cannot afford to live here.

And to the OP. There are sadly some rude people in The Villages. It really depends on our attitude as to how to deal with them. Most people would say...Sheesh, who pooped in her cornflakes and go on to investigate further...which I think is what you did. Let's not fight over something that is trivial. Many, many, many, many, people love it here and although not perfect, it comes pretty close to...………..lower paradise.

[John_W]

I have figured out some of the jargon. The Villages uses the terms 'Livestyle Preview Plan', you'll sometimes see us refer to it as LSV (Lifestyle Visit) when a poster is asking questions. Here's a link to all the details and the info on signing up for a visit.

The Villages Lifestyle Preview Plan (https://www.thevillages.com/lifestyle-preview-plan/)

Valencia, which has several communities in Florida, I believe Valencia Bay in Tampa is the closest, and uses the actual words 'Stay and Play'. You might have bookmarked their website and The Villages website and mixed up the wording, which is why many posters weren't sure of what you have. Also possibly a Villages renter saw that same ad and used it as a ploy in it's listing. It's obvious if a Villages renter used that term, it was strictly a marketing gimmick since you're not at Valencia. There is a lot of competition for renters in The Villages, on one website alone there are over 1650 available rental properties.

Stay & Play | Florida Real Estate - GL Homes (https://www.glhomes.com/stay-and-play/)

https://www.glhomes.com/siteassets/communities/valencia-bay/banners/sp-brochure.png?w=600

Popular Villages Rental Website

Villages 4 Rent - 1650 Rentals (https://www.villagershomes4rent.com/)

[retiredguy123]

I have figured out some of the jargon. The Villages uses the terms 'Livestyle Preview Plan', you'll sometimes see us refer to it as LSV (Lifestyle Visit) when a poster is asking questions. Here's a link to all the details and the info on signing up for a visit.

The Villages Lifestyle Preview Plan (https://www.thevillages.com/lifestyle-preview-plan/)

Valencia, which has several communities in Florida, I believe Valencia Bay in Tampa is the closest, and uses the actual words 'Stay and Play'. You might have bookmarked their website and The Villages website and mixed up the wording, which is why many posters weren't sure of what you have. Also possibly a Villages renter saw that same ad and used it as a ploy in it's listing. It's obvious if a Villages renter used that term, it was strictly a marketing gimmick since you're not at Valencia. There is a lot of competition for renters in The Villages, on one website alone there are over 1650 available rental properties.

Stay & Play | Florida Real Estate - GL Homes (https://www.glhomes.com/stay-and-play/)

https://www.glhomes.com/siteassets/communities/valencia-bay/banners/sp-brochure.png?w=600

Popular Villages Rental Website

Villages 4 Rent - 1650 Rentals (https://www.villagershomes4rent.com/)
Refer to post number 25.

The Villages web site uses the term "STAY AND PLAY". Go the thevillages.com and you will see it. That is what the OP was referring to.

[graciegirl]

Refer to post number 25.

The Villages web site uses the term "STAY AND PLAY". Go the thevillages.com and you will see it. That is what the OP was referring to.

The Villages site uses that term? I can't find it on here at all; The Villages - Florida's Friendliest Active Adult 55+ Retirement Community (https://www.thevillages.com/)

AND...apparently there are no perks or offers in the "Life Style Preview Plan".... like they used to offer.... See here this link that used to be called "The Lifestyle Preview Plan"; File Not Found | The Villages (https://www.thevillages.com/404.html)

Meanwhile, John W. Thank you for the clarifying of the "jargon".

[retiredguy123]

The Villages site uses that term? I can't find it on here at all; The Villages - Florida's Friendliest Active Adult 55+ Retirement Community (https://www.thevillages.com/)

AND...apparently there are no perks or offers in the "Life Style Preview Plan".... like they used to offer.... See here this link that used to be called "The Lifestyle Preview Plan"; File Not Found | The Villages (https://www.thevillages.com/404.html)

Meanwhile, John W. Thank you for the clarifying of the "jargon".
Yes, they do use that term. Go to "thevillages.com". Scroll down and click on "Experience the Lifestyle..." On the next screen, you will see a video with the title, "Lifestyle Preview Plan - Stay and Play".

[manaboutown]

Yes, they do use that term. Go to "thevillages.com". Scroll down and click on "Experience the Lifestyle..." On the next screen, you will see a video with the title, "Lifestyle Preview Plan - Stay and Play".

YEP!

The Villages Lifestyle Preview Plan (https://www.thevillages.com/lifestyle-preview-plan/)

[Topspinmo]

Wouldn’t it be nice if everything was free and available for everyone....

Well....there plenty of stay and play for free in the villages. :popcorn: