Timeshare Seller Beware!

By Lisa Ann Schreier
If you are familiar with any of my postings, books and/or live events, you know that I am decidedly on the side of the consumer—alerting them for things to look out for when purchasing, or even thinking of purchasing, a timeshare.
Today is different. Today I want to shed some light on an even scarier subject: what to do with a timeshare that you don’t want or use anymore, and the disgusting companies out there ready to fleece you. [read more]

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New Aquatica Attraction at Orlando’s Sea World

Sea World has long drawn Orlando timeshare owners with its marvelous marine attractions. But now, with the opening of Aquatica, a one-of-a-kind waterpark, there’s even more reasons to visit the home of Shamu the Killer Whale.
Aquatica, with 36 water slides, six rivers and lagoons and more than 80,000 square feet of white sandy beaches, delights all ages. After all, there are not only gentle water spray areas for young children, but also high-speed water slides and exhilarating wave pools for the most daring of your group. Perhaps the most interesting ride at Aquatica is the Dolphin Plunge, a slide of 250 feet of clear tubes that take you underwater, through Aquatica’s dolphin habitat.
Other rides include side-by-side wave pools that offer different experiences: either crashing 5-foot waves or gently rolling surf. Float on a lazy river past a 10,000-gallon habitat of thousands of exotic fish. Adventure rapids zip guests past geysers and through waterfalls three times faster than a typical waterpark river. Try to beat others down an eight-line racing slide, flying in and out of tunnels along the way. Or soar down a six-story, triple-drop flume raft ride. A whopping 3.3 million gallons of water used throughout the park is kept at a comfortable 84 degrees.

The water park is directly across the street from SeaWorld, and you can purchase a combination ticket to experience both in one day. Or purchase an admission only to Aquatica. The setting features more than 100 species of trees and 250 species of shrubs, grasses, vines and flowers. In total, 60,000 plants cover the grounds of the lush park. With such a lovely environment, and plenty of serene beaches, even if you’re traveling with folks who aren’t interested in water slides, they can just relax at Aquatica in pretty surroundings and enjoy the Florida sun.

Interview: Timeshare Vacation in St. Maarten

An interview with Holiday sales reps Kayla Mahaffey and Le Anderle, who recently took a timeshare vacation to St. Maarten.

Where did you go and what did you most enjoy about it?
We went to St. Maarten, the Dutch side of the island. It was the most beautiful place I have ever been to! We stayed at the Pelican Resort on Simpson Bay. There was dazzling turquoise water all around, picture-perfect beaches, and a warm breeze through the palm trees. What more could you ask for? We have been on a lot of vacations between the two of us and have never been to a friendlier place! The locals were so nice we didn’t want to leave. It is an exquisite place.

How did you find out about it, and what does one need to do this type of timeshare exchange?

I have had several clients over the years tell me what an amazing place St. Maarten is, and Le had already been there and loved it. So, I just had to take the trip from Seattle to see for myself. I used my timeshare in Puerto Vallarta, Buganvilias Resort Vacation Club, for the exchange. All I did was call RCI and they took care of the exchange for me very easily. I did, however, plan almost a year in advance. It is better to plan as far in advance as possible.

What are some fun things to do that might appeal to other timesharers who have never been there? Also, what are the “don’t miss” things?

The airport itself is one of the most photographed airports in the world. You fly in 15 feet above the beach! It is very fun to watch from the famous Sunset Beach Bar. You have to rent a car. The driving is a bit messy, but people are very friendly and it’s a must if you want to leave your resort and explore the island. Just honk and go–that’s the island way. You’ll also want to take an Island Cruise or rent a Jet Ski so you can get it all in.

The Shopping in Philipsburg is the best on the Island. They have a “Front Street” and a “Back Street”; you will find better deals on “Back Street.” “Front Street” seems to be more for the cruise ships, so prices are a bit higher for all the same things. If you are looking for jewelry, Lee’s is the best place by far to shop at.

The food on St. Maarten is incredible. No matter where you go you can find what they call a “Lolo,” a huge BBQ under a tree with a little hut nearby serving beverages. It’s the best the BBQ I’ve ever had, and I’m from the South!

Also, don’t miss The Buccaneer Beach Bar. They have the best burgers on the island and the staff is great, though their other food is good, too. Plus, they are the only bar that has a beach with free chairs! All the other beach bars charge to use their beach chairs. (Say “hi” to owner Jill for me if you go!) If you are a seafood lover, you don’t want to miss out on the “lobster thermador” at Pineapple Pete’s. It’s the best!

Any tips that might make this trip more enjoyable? What did you learn that would make the trip smoother for other visitors, whether it relates timeshare specifically or travel to the Caribbean in general?

Travel light if you can. Just a carry-on is all the better. This helps speed things through customs and gets you caught up on island time. Also, it’s easier to make your connecting flight by traveling super light. All you really need is sandals, a swim suit, a T-shirt, and a pair of shorts. You will need a passport, of course, and some spending cash. You can get sun block, shampoo, and that kind of stuff once you get there.

Anything else that you think of that someone new to timeshare might want to know or do? Best time to go? Reservation details?

Whether you’re new to timeshare or not, this is an incredible experience for anyone who loves to vacation, and really loves the beach. I have to say, I never felt more carefree and relaxed than I did while walking near or swimming in the Caribbean Sea.

Check with your RCI Counselor for details on how to exchange your timeshare for one on this charming island. If you don’t have a timeshare, or just need more info, give me a call. I’ll be happy to share my knowledge as a Holiday Vacationeer.

Other Helpful Links:

St. Maarten weather

St. Maarten/St. Martin Beaches

Caribbean Resale Timeshares

History of St. Maarten/St. Martin

What’s New at Southern California Theme Parks

Always wanting to keep repeat visitors entertained, Southern California theme parks typically roll out new attractions or activities annually. Here’s a peek at what’s happening at some of the area’s most well-known theme parks this year:
SeaWorld San Diego
Shamu, the world-famous whale, dolphins, sharks and many more marine creatures make their home at SeaWorld. Toddlers and preschoolers will love the new Sesame Street themed attractions, such as gentle rides, a 4-D movie, live musical production starring Big Bird and other characters, as well as an Elmo character breakfast.

Legoland

The interactive rides at this theme park in Carlsbad are hit especially with kids between ages 4 and 8. But there’s something for everyone here–from toddler play areas and water rides to roller coasters and fun live shows. New this year is the Land of Adventure, with four attractions, including the park’s first “dark ride”: Lost Kingdom Adventure puts guests inside desert jeeps and takes them on a journey to recover stolen treasure, laser blasting targets along the way.

Set to open this summer is Sea Life at Legoland California Resort. This is the world’s largest aquarium brand, formerly only found in Europe. The two-story, 36,000-square-foot attraction will have separate admission and focus on teaching young children about the ocean with play zones, fun facts and quiz trails.

San Diego Zoo

This world-renowned zoo in downtown San Diego celebrated its 90th anniversary last year. The latest additions are a panda cub and spotted hyenas.

San Diego Wild Animal Park

This animal park is affiliated with, but not adjacent to, the San Diego Zoo. It’s actually 35 miles north of San Diego, east of Escondido. Last year the park introduced the Journey into Africa safari-themed tour, and new animals this year include seven lion clubs and a baby elephant.

Six Flags Magic Mountain & Hurricane Harbor

Get your thrills on wild coasters, tamer toddler rides or on humongous water slides and rides at these theme parks just outside Los Angeles in Valencia. The newest Magic Mountain attraction is a children’s play area, Thomas Town, based on the beloved Thomas the Tank Engine character. Also, a new $10 million “sight and sound experience” has enhanced the state-of-the-art coaster “X,” which is now called “X-squared.”

Universal Studios Hollywood

At this working movie studio and theme park, the newest characters to stroll the grounds are Scooby-Doo and Shaggy, as well as Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie Simpson. The “Revenge of the Mummy” ride received recent enhancements that make it even scarier than ever.

Disneyland & California Adventure Park

At California Adventure, watch the new “Pixar Play Parade” with your preschoolers’ favorite characters from Toy Story, Finding Nemo, Cars and The Incredibles. At “Playhouse Disney Live on Stage” dance along with characters from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Manny and Little Einsteins.

What’s New in Hawaii

Perhaps the biggest news to hit the Hawaiian Islands in recent months is Aloha Airlines filing for bankruptcy in late March. The beloved Hawaiian company shut down its inter-island and transpacific flight operations after 61 years in business.
Fortunately, United Airlines, Aloha Airlines’ code-share partner, as well as other airlines have stepped up to try to accommodate inconvenienced passengers on their flights, and statewide hotels are also providing special consideration to stranded passengers for extended or emergency accommodations. (Heck, it wouldn’t be so horrible to be “stuck” in paradise for an additional day or two!)
On a brighter note, there is plenty of good news to share from the “Islands of Aloha,” with new events, activities and attractions for visitors:

· The Battleship Missouri Memorial on Oahu celebrates 10 years in Hawaii with two new commemorative tours happening in June. The Weapons Tour features the wide array of weaponry used on the Missouri throughout her five decades of active service. The Generations Tour explores the lives of those who served aboard the vessel.

· Captain Beans’ Cruises on the Big Island offers a new Friday night sunset sail aboard a huge 150-foot double-hulled canoe. With the canoe as your dining room, the two-hour cruise includes live music, a selection of pupu and one alcoholic drink per person.

· Enjoy the music of the islands on the plaza lawn of the Waikiki Beach Walk every Tuesday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The complimentary program focuses on island traditions, cultural beliefs and historical moments in Hawaii, all told through song and dance.

· Tour the night sky with Star Gazers Maui at Haleakala National Park. See the view from the volcano and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the stars 10,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean. Also learn about the constellations by looking through a giant, computerized telescope. The tour includes dinner, drinks, snacks and hot chocolate. (Haleakala is chilly after dark!)

· The newest zipline adventure on Kauai takes thrill-seekers higher and faster through the treetops of Kauai’s rainforest. JustLive! offers those who dare an opportunity to zip across six different lines, walk across a 70-foot-high swinging suspension bridge and traverse a 60-foot-high dual rope crossing. The company also offers an evening zipline tour by full moon.