The Importance of Vacations, for Stress Relief, Productivity and Health

Vacations Are Important For More Than Just Fun

By Elizabeth Scott, M.S., About.com
Updated: April 28, 2008
About.com Health’s Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Steven Gans, MD

Many people don’t take vacations often enough. In fact, according to a poll on this site, around half of readers don’t take annual vacations; in fact, many readers never take them! And now with increasing frequency, when we do take vacations, we often bring work along with us, keeping ourselves essentially still in the work mindset we’re trying to escape. This is unfortunate for several reasons:

• Vacations Promote Creativity: A good vacation can help us to reconnect with ourselves, operating as a vehicle for self-discovery and helping us get back to feeling our best.

• Vacations Stave Off Burnout: Workers who take regular time to relax are less likely to experience burnout, making them more creative and productive than their overworked, under-rested counterparts.

>>read article

Also of interest: Taking a Vacation Can be a Life-Saver

The Timeshare Industry At a Glance

A look at the history and business of timesharing, and what the future might hold for vacation ownership.

Stats & Facts

6,700,000 Worldwide timeshare owners.
4,100,000 US timeshare owners in 2006.
130,000 Timeshare units in the US.
5,500 Worldwide timeshare resorts.
1,600 US timeshare resorts in 2006.
1,200 US timeshare resorts in 1997.
378 Florida timeshare resorts (highest in US).
123 California timeshare resorts (second highest in US).
117 South Carolina timeshare resorts (third highest in US).
95 Countries worldwide in which there is at least one timeshare resort.
85 Percentage of US timesharers who own their own home.
84.5 Percentage of US timeshare owners who are satisfied with timesharing.
83 Number of units in the average US timeshare resort.
78 Percentage of timeshare owners who travel by air to reach their destination.
31 Percentage of timeshare owners who are married, with children at home.
14.5 Percentage of increase in US timeshare sales in 2002 over the previous year.
1.8 Number of vacation weeks owned by the average timesharer.
(Source: American Resort Developers Association)

Snapshots

Motivation. Timeshare owners have identified the five most important factors that motivated their purchase: (1) Flexibility of use; (2) Quality of accommodations; (3) Credibility of the sales company; (4) Exchange opportunities; (5) Resort appeal. -Source: www.arda.com

Singles nation. While most current timeshare owners are married, a recent national survey (Future Timeshare Buyers: 2004 Market Profile, Interval International) reveals that of respondents indicating an interest in purchasing a timeshare in the near future, nearly one-third were single, with the highest concentration being among GenXers.

Top dog. Cendant Corporation is the world’s top hotel franchisor. Its timeshare-related holdings include Fairfield Resorts, Trendwest Resorts, and exchange company Resort Condominiums International (RCI). It also owns Amerihost Inn, Howard Johnson, Travelodge, Days Inn, Super 8, Ramada, Century 21, Coldwell Banker, Avis, and Budget Rent A Car.

Exchange rate. The two largest timeshare exchange companies, RCI and Interval International, combined for a total 2,949,787 vacation exchanges in 2003 (the most recent year for which statistics are available).

A Short History of Timesharing

While there is some disagreement over who exactly invented timesharing, everyone agrees it began in either Switzerland or France in the mid-1960s.

Depending on how the concept is defined, the honor might belong to Alexander Nette of Switzerland, whose company, Hapimag, began selling right-to-use holiday packages at Swiss resorts in 1963. A year or so later, Paul Doumier was offering ownership interests in his company’s SuperDevoluy ski resort in the French Alps.

The first American timeshare, a leasehold program, was begun in 1969, at the Kauai Kailani resort on Kauai, Hawaii. Four years later, Innisfree, a subsidiary of the Hyatt Corporation, sold the first deeded American timeshares at the Brockway Springs condominium development, in Kings Beach (Lake Tahoe), California. It was during this venture that the term “timeshare” was coined.

In 1974, the Sanibel Beach Club, on Sanibel Island, Florida, became the first US resort designed and built as a timeshare. By the end of 1975, just a year later, there were 45 timeshare properties and more than 10,000 timeshare members in the US. Vacation ownership had arrived, and soon took a leisure-loving public by storm.

Over the next 15 years, timesharing became one of the fastest-growing segments of the vacation travel industry, though there were a few bumps in the road along the way, such as the questionable sales tactics used by some of the early timeshare retailers to lure buyers.

But such practices have become increasingly rare due to consumer protection laws, buyer awareness, and the entrance into the timeshare market of larger, more respectable vacation companies. As a result, timesharing has both matured and become more user friendly. In fact, if current sales are an indication, timesharing may just now be entering its “golden age.”

In the 40 years since it first appeared in Europe, timesharing has grown to become the premiere alternative to traditional vacationing, offering greater flexibility, more spacious accommodations, luxury amenities, and a vacation lifestyle once reserved for the “rich and famous.”

As one timeshare company executive recently noted, “We used to sell just bricks and mortar. Now we’re offering a product with all the bells and whistles.”

Trends and Directions

A lot has already changed in the four decades since the first timeshare opened its doors. Over the next ten years, we will undoubtedly see the transformation of timesharing into a total vacation experience. Here’s a look at what’s been happening of late, as well as where timesharing is headed.

Adventure resorts and theme clubs. As with most industries, as timesharing grows, it will also become more specialized. Some of the activity-based markets that timeshare developers have already considered tapping into include horseback riding, charter fishing, scuba-diving, mountain biking, even paintball. Theme clubs are another idea generating industry buzz. These would cater to buyers who share such interests as religion, health and fitness, ecology (eco-resorts), art, music, gambling, or gourmet food and wine.

All-inclusive programs. The all-inclusive concept has been around since the 1950s, when Gerard Blitz founded Club Med. But it received a big boost in the 70s when several Caribbean resorts began offering all-inclusive packages that included alcoholic drinks. Thirty years and a few hangovers later, hundreds of timeshare resorts worldwide now offer their own all-inclusive plans, to the delight of bargain-seeking travelers: A recent study determined that 60% of vacationers now look for all-inclusive packages when shopping for a vacation resort. Expect more resorts to follow suit in the near future.

Fractionals. Fractional ownerships first appeared in the mid-1990s. Today, they represent the fastest-growing and most lucrative segment of the timeshare market, with nearly 500 fractional interest resorts in North America and the Caribbean, with a combined 4,000 units. Unlike traditional timeshare resorts, where owners usually own one week a year, fractional ownerships are sold as multi-week blocks of time. When expressed as fractions of a 52-week year, purchases typically range from a 1/21 (two-week) to a 1/4 (thirteen-week) interest in a residence, though even larger fractions are not uncommon. Think of it as owning a part-time home. In recent years, the concept has also been applied to sailboats, yachts, RVs, exotic cars, and airplanes.

Hotel timesharing. Having witnessed the phenomenal growth of the timeshare industry, some of the best known hoteliers in the world, including Hilton and Marriott, are beginning to add vacation ownership to their traditional vacation rental properties, creating a new, mixed-use business model.
Non-traditional timeshares. If a condominium can be a timeshare, why not a campground, or a houseboat, or a recreational vehicle? In fact, these already exist. So what might be next? Shopping mall timeshares? Ballpark timeshares? If you can think it, then it’s probably an idea whose time(share) will come.

Points programs. While vacation points aren’t new, the concept is gaining in popularity as more and more timeshare owners express an interest in the usage flexibility that points programs afford. And timeshare developers are listening. Fairfield Resorts, for example, is the leading provider of points-based vacations, with over 50 resorts and a membership of more than 450,000 families. Recently, Marriott, Disney, and exchange company RCI have offered their own points programs. The resulting competition has been good for consumers, as points providers seek new ways to lure vacationers. For instance, some vacation clubs now allow members to redeem their points for airline tickets, car rentals, and cruises.

Private residence clubs. Also known as high-end fractionals, private residence clubs (PRCs) are the newest concept in luxury timesharing-and the fastest-growing segment of the “fractionals” market. Typically catering to wealthy buyers, PRCs are essentially a combination private club and upscale timeshare. Residences are fully furnished and feature designer décors and club amenities that can rival those of the world’s most exclusive resorts. Ownerships generally range from a 1/21 (two-week) to a 1/4 (thirteen-week) annual share, with prices averaging about $50,000 per week. In the future, we will likely see the PRC concept tailored to buyers with more modest incomes.

Urban timesharing. Except for entertainment destinations, such as Orlando or Las Vegas, traditional timesharing has sought to take folks out of the city, away from the madding crowd, and place them in settings more conducive to relaxation. Urban timeshares turn that idea on its head. Intended to appeal to buyers who want to visit the city, whether for business or pleasure, this newest trend in timesharing is quickly filling a previously neglected market niche. Call it getting away to it all.

Consider This

There was a time, back in the 1980s, when some timeshare developers began to resort to high-pressure, and sometimes deceptive, sales tactics to sell their product. Word about this behavior spread quickly. The unfortunate result was that some people became distrustful of the entire timeshare industry.

Things have changed. The last ten years have seen important reforms addressing these issues, including consumer protection laws and higher industry standards. And in recent years, an influx of respected hospitality providers has revolutionized the image and concept of timesharing: Disney, Marriott, Ramada, Sheraton, Four Seasons, Weston, Radisson, and Ritz-Carlton.

While this is good news for the retail side of the business, it’s important to note that timeshare owners who originally purchased from the resale market not only avoided these early problems (since they bypassed the developers completely), but they also paid less than half what retail owners were being charged.

Timeshare resales is the vacation industry’s best-kept secret. As a recent article in National Geographic Traveler points out, “Timeshare bargains are in resales, but most people don’t know they exist”-which obviously doesn’t apply to you, dear reader!

As the timeshare industry continues to improve its product through exciting innovations and a renewed commitment to customer satisfaction, the future of timesharing looks bright. Timeshare resales makes it even brighter.

________________

You may also be interested in: RCI Points vs. Traditional Timeshare Weeks

Timesharing With Pets

You have a dog. You love your dog. You consider your dog a part of the family, but when you take a timeshare vacation, you are forced to leave your dog with a friend, a neighbor, or in a kennel. You hate to do this, to leave your four-legged family member behind, but you think there isn’t any other way. Does this sound familiar?

Traveling with pets of any type can be difficult. Most hotels and resorts don’t allow pets into their establishment and uphold their policy quite strictly, unless the animal works as a disability aide. Resorts say no and hotels say no, leaving a dog-owner at a loss of where to travel. Most dog-owners turn to the more liberated activity of camping, but depending upon where you choose to camp, your animal may not be welcome. Most state parks, national reserves, and ocean-side beaches do not allow dogs and other animals within the parameter of their boundaries for fear of upsetting the ecosystem’s natural balance. After that rejection, dog-owners don’t have much option of where to travel at all. Or so they think.

NO PETS ALLOWED

Most resorts employ a strict no-pets policy. You might think this rule too rigid. You might think that the resorts certainly have the capacity to allow animal travelers to stay along with the paying customers and you might be justified in thinking this. If you miss your pet while you travel and wish to take action, you can. As stated by the president of the American Resort Development Association, Howard Nusbaum, “The great value of timeshare to the consumer is the role owners play in the governance of their home resort” (Endless Vacation Magazine, May/June 2007). Translation: If you’re home resort isn’t pet-friendly and you wish it would be, you can take steps to initiate the change by getting a “pets allowed” provision passed.

Keep these simple facts in mind, however, before you attempt to petition against your home resort’s policy. Allowing pets into resorts would increase the upkeep and costs by a large amount. These fees would be added onto the general maintenance fees paid annually by all timeshare owners. People who aren’t willing to pay additional costs out of pocket, no matter how much they love their pets, probably wouldn’t support the petition with their votes. Also, there are a good percentage of people who are allergic to various types of pet hair and having pets allowed in their resort would be undesirable. These are two immediate reasons a petitioner would lose votes.

There is an additional downside of a pet-friendly resort. Allowing pets would open up the resort to potential lawsuits in the event a pet injured a child, someone else, or someone else’s pet. The responsibilities of these unfortunate events would be passed on to the owners, as well as the resorts. While you may be a responsible owner with control over your animal’s behavior, there’s no guarantee everyone else is that responsible.

This information isn’t meant to discourage the dog-lover. As with all things in life, there are ways unseen. There is an alternative to petitioning your home resort or picking from the slim choices of pet-friendly resorts when deciding where to vacation with your dog. More often than not, there are facilities located nearby the timeshare resort where people can board their pets. Keeping your dog at a kennel or veterinarian hospital during the nights allows you to spend the days with your four-legged family member.

One Holiday Vacationeer, who wishes to remain anonymous, said, “The concierge at a property I sold in Canada told of a vet’s office about one block away from the resort. It was common for people to board their pets there while staying at the resort. I shared that info with my clients and they were grateful to have that [alternative].” While this would be an extra vacation expense, boarding your dog near your resort would certainly cost less than the time spent petitioning and the additional maintenance fees of a pet-friendly resort policy.

PETS WELCOME

More resorts are welcome to pets than you would think. Some even go so far as to cater to your animals, boasting doggie daycare and pamper spas. For a list of RCI pet-friendly US resorts, see here. And here is a list that includes both RCI and Interval International resorts. The following list is also provided as a convenience to our readers, but please keep in mind that the pet policies of these resorts are subject to change without notice. If taking pets on your timeshare vacation is a priority, be sure to check with the resort about its pet policy before you make an exchange or book your reservations.

Pet-Friendly Resorts:

Canada
Ives on Schuswap, British Columbia
The Lodge at Kananaskis, Alberta
Hotel Kananaskis, Alberta
Banff Rocky Mountain Resort, Alberta
Chateau Canmore Resort, Alberta

USA
Chateau Rouge Lodge, Montana
Quadna Mountain Village, Montana
Silverleaf’s Holiday Hills, Montana
Silverleaf’s Ozark Mountain Resort, Missouri
Silverleaf’s Timber Creek Resort, Missouri
Silverleaf’s Holly Lake Ranch, Texas
Silverleaf’s Villages, Texas
Silverleaf’s Hill Country Resort, Texas
Silverleaf’s Piney Shores Resort, Texas
Silverleaf’s Seaside Resort, Texas
The Waves, Maryland
Lucayan, Maryland
Atlantic Resorts, Maryland
The Plaza Resort and Spa, California
Plaza Resort & Spa in Palm Springs, California
Nob Hill Inn, California
Silverleaf’s Las Vegas Resort, Nevada
Caribe Beach Resort, Florida
Rancho Ruidoso Condominiums, New Mexico
Kala Point Village, Washington
RWVC At Kala Point, Washington
RWVC At Snowater, Washington
Silverleaf’s Fox River Resort, Illinois
Club La Pension, Louisiana
The Inn at Silvercreek, Colorado

Mexico
Pueblo Bonito, Mazatlan

PET ETIQUETTE

The more behaved your pup, the better reputation traveling dogs will have. As traveling dogs earn a better reputation, more hotels and resorts will loosen their “no pets” policy. The more resorts and hotels that become pet-friendly, the more options for you and your dog when planning your vacation. Everybody’s happy!

• Always call ahead. Even if you know that your targeted resort or hotel allows pets, call to ensure their policy and to inform the concierge that a four-legged creature will be arriving alongside you and your luggage.
• Travel with a well-behaved dog. Use common sense here. No matter how much you’re going to miss your pooch, some dogs don’t travel well, handle crowds of people well, or even meet other dogs well. You know if your dog fits into one of these categories. Take Mary, a Holiday Group Sales Finance Manager, for example. Mary owns four dogs. She admitted to me that she refused to travel with any of them, her first being too old, her second being too large, her third being people-shy and liable to bite, and her fourth being an extremely unpredictable puppy. While Mary loves her pups, she is aware of their shortcomings and chooses to be responsible rather than risk the chance of an unfortunate event.
• Keep your dog on a leash, unless within a designated off-leash area. While your dog is off the leash, be sure to keep a close watch. Dogs lost during travel are always more difficult to locate. Remember the movie Homeward Bound? You wouldn’t want your beloved fur ball searching the American wilderness for its home, would you?
• ALWAYS clean up after your pup. It is not pleasant, while walking on the beach or through the woods, to happen upon a pile of poo.
• In hotel rooms, never leave your dog alone. Lonely dogs may bark and behave worse than a drunken Rock’n’Roll band after a concert. If you must leave your dog behind, be mindful of the housekeepers and leave the do-not-disturb sign on the door.

Using these rules as a guideline for traveling with your beloved dog, you will have naught but happy trails and happy tails.

Traveling with Pets? Some helpful links:

DogFriendly
Tips on everything from buying a new dog to how to prepare for a road trip with your pooch. Free membership and access to info-loaded free newsletter. Great site!

TakeYourPet
Free newsletter

Pets On the Go
Requires a fee for membership

BringYourPet
Tips for international travel with your dog or cat

BestFriendsPetCare
Tips on pet etiquette while traveling

Take Two Weeks and Call Me in the Morning

American Resort Development Association Concurs with Recent Survey Findings that Americans are Vacation-Deprived
(Washington, May 21, 2008)—While many people across this great nation get ready to celebrate the first weekend of summer, most people don’t have any plans to vacation this year. Based on the recent Expedia Vacation Deprivation™ survey, Americans not only receive the smallest amount of vacation time among their counterparts abroad, they often fail to use it. The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) challenges the vacation-deprived among us take the first step to recovery and admit there is a problem.
“I’m dismayed but not surprised at these findings,” said Howard Nusbaum, ARDA president and CEO. “People need to realize that taking time to unwind is an important health benefit. Relieving stress, spending family time and re-energizing will pay dividends throughout the rest of the year.”

The second step in vacation deprivation recovery is to ensure that the vacation is the best possible experience it can be. ARDA member resorts provide spacious accommodations in stunning locations with all the comforts of home. A timeshare resort offers hassle-free second home vacations designed with the sole purpose of making the most of precious leisure time together.

Expedia found that despite reporting an average of 14 paid vacation days again this year, the same as 2007 and two more than in 2005, an estimated 47.5MM Americans will not use all of their vacation days. Again this year, employed U.S. adults will leave an average of three vacation days on the table, in essence giving back more than 460 million vacation days in 2008.

Everyone deserves not only a vacation, but a better vacation. For more information contact ARDA at www.arda.org. (Link to article)

>>All the more reason HOLIDAY should be your resource for VACATION FULFILLMENT!

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

My San Francisco Timeshare Trip

An interview with Geoff Klein, Holiday’s Marketing Director,who recently stayed at the San Francisco Worldmark timeshare resort.

What are some fun things to do in San Francisco that you recommend? Take a stroll through Chinatown and sample some dim sum. Hop on a cable car around sunset. Visit the historic Presidio. Climb up Coit Tower for a great city view. Walk along Chrissy Field for a good view of the Golden Gate bridge. Take a cab down Lombard street, the famous crooked steet. Swing by Fisherman’s Wharf and grab an Irish Coffee at the Buena Vista.

Any tips that might make this trip more enjoyable? San Francisco has a great public transportation system, take advantage of it. I also recommend taking the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) from the airports into San Francisco. Travel light, but come prepared, as you never know what to expect from this city’s weather. We started out on one end of the town and it was sunny and warm. By the time my wife and I wound up at the Presidio it was foggy and cool.

Any other recommendations? For a taste of old San Francisco, as well as a good drink, visit the Redwood Room at the Clift Hotel. Go to North Beach for great Italian food. The place is packed with excellent restaurants. We wound up at the US Restaurant. This area is also known for its Beatnik history, which includes City Lights books, San Francisco’s most famous literary landmark. The Andalu restaurant in the Mission district served great tapas, California style. And, for something different, try the Tonga Room, at the Fairmont Hotel, for a fun tiki-bar experience.

Last Word: The staff at the San Francisco Worldmark were fantastic - cheerful and helpful. And the location can’t be beat, right off of Union Square, in the center of the action. It’s a perfect home base from which to explore this magical town.

Other Resources:

The Official Visitor’s Site

San Francisco Weather

San Francisco History

Worldmark Timeshare Resales

Interview: British Virgin Islands Using RCI Points

 

 

An interview with Holiday’s Sales Manager, Gail Bennett, who recently used her RCI Points for a week-long catamaran trip to the British Virgin Islands!

Where did you go and what did you most enjoy?

We went to the beautiful British Virgin Islands. Who wouldn’t have loved the sunny days, blue skies, and turquoise water all around? I loved the fact that I was on a catamaran for the entire eight days and seven nights.

How did you find out about it? What does one need to do this kind of an exchange?

It was a fluke, really. Don’t all great things begin that way? I was searching online with my RCI Points, looking for a trip to the Caribbean, and there it was: an opportunity to exchange my timeshare for a catamaran tour of the BVIs!

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 catamaran has sleeping berths for eight, including the captain and first mate. One of the other couples was celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary, which was really special. We landed on a little sandy beach with palm trees and fantastic scenery, and the captain renewed their vows.

Don’t miss the Jolly Roger, Foxy’s, or the Baths. All must-do’s. The BVIs are meant to be toured via boat, versus being confined to just one island. Also, I missed it this time, but if you can coordinate your trip during the full moon, the entire BVI has celebrations that commemorate the event.

Any tips that might make this trip more enjoyable? What did you learn (if anything) to make the trip smoother, whether it relates to timeshare specifically, or to Caribbean travel in general?

Travel light, if you can. Just a carry-on is even better. This helps speed things through customs and, in case the airport is running on “island time,” gives you a better chance of making your connecting flight. You will need a passport and some spending cash. My friend and I picked up some Island bongos that we beat on all the time. It was fun and funny.

You can get sun block and shampoo once you get there. Plus, if you’re traveling via catamaran, don’t expect to shower too often, as they try to conserve water on the boat.

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

Whether you’re new to or already familiar with timeshare, it’s an incredible experience. I have to say I never felt more carefree than during those eight gorgeous days floating on the Caribbean. I don’t think you can get this any other way than either owning there or with RCI Points, but check with your RCI Counselor for details. If any readers don’t have a timeshare or need more info, give me a call and I’ll be happy to put you in touch with one of our knowledgeable Vacationeers, or search Holiday’s Web site for our RCI Points selection. No worries, mon!

More Resources on the British Virgin Islands:

BVI Tourist Board

BVI National Parks Trust

Beach Bars of the BVI

2008: Timeshare’s Tipping Point?

Depending on what history you accept, timeshare will be celebrating its 40th anniversary next year. And I will be celebrating my ninth year in the industry.

The facts and figures on timeshare show continued upward movement in both the number of people who own and the amount of money generated. At first glance, it appears that the industry is thriving–and compared to the numbers in 1968, it is.

However, you only have to look past the numbers and speak to “the man on the street” to find that things are not as rosy as they could be. According to a recent survey of active leisure travelers in America, an astonishing 94% reported that they were not interested in purchasing a timeshare within the next two years. Ninety-four percent!

Unfortunately, the survey does not ask why such a large number of active leisure travelers are not interested in purchasing a timeshare. Anyone familiar with timeshare can tell you that timeshare ownership has any number of benefits, including:

• saving money on vacations
• more choices of vacation experiences
• higher quality vacation accommodations
• lifetime ownership

I suspect the people who reported that they were not interested in purchasing were, in reality, not interested in purchasing a timeshare by means of a 3-hour sales presentation.

It is my privilege to teach university students each year. The majority of the students enrolled in a timeshare class have a negative or neutral view on timeshare at the start of the semester. At the end of each semester, I ask them if their views have changed.

Not surprisingly, more than 87% of them say that their view of the timeshare product has improved, many to the point of asking me what is the best way to purchase a timeshare.

At the end of each semester, I ask this question: “If you could change one thing about the timeshare industry, what would it be and why?”

An overwhelming number of them (96%) say that they would change the way timeshares are marketed and sold.

I thought I would share some of their comments:
“Timeshares should be striving to create products that consumers actually wish to pursue rather than get pulled into something because of a gift.”

“I would change the way the companies recruit tours. I think it is tacky and horrible the way they set up booths outside of gas stations and in malls.”

“Change it to market more only to the people that can afford it. Less money to be spent/wasted on mini-vacs or hooks to people who could never afford it.”

“I would change the sales and marketing aspect. I don’t think free gifts should be given. There should be more advertising (TV, magazines, etc.) displaying timeshares in a good light to make customers want to buy instead of having to be bribed to even go to a presentation.”
And my favorite:
“One thing I would change would be the marketing technique. Although ‘free park tickets’ works, I feel it gives a negative, hokey impression. People know what they are getting into with this, but it seems like such a baiting type technique.”
These are college students. Tomorrow’s educated, savvy and critical timeshare prospects. I suspect that if given free rein, they could have a tremendous, positive impact on the timeshare industry.

Until now, the timeshare industry has done a very good job of “same old, same old.” Bribe the client, dazzle them with pretty pictures, tell them what they want to hear, raise the prices to offset extraordinarily high marketing costs, and then rake in the bucks.

As the industry approaches its 40th anniversary, I believe that it sits at a critical tipping point. It is time for positive change, or we run the risk of becoming outdated and left behind.

The good people at Holiday are, thankfully, part of this positive change. They have knowledgeable people on staff to guide consumers through the various timeshare products, an ever-changing inventory of timeshares available for purchase that don’t require a lengthy sales spiel, and they provide vast amounts of timeshare knowledge and information on their website.

My goal for 2008 is to do whatever I can to bring about this positive change. My working with Holiday to provide bigger and better “Timeshare Bootcamps” that were such as success this year will be a critical part of the plan. I’ll also continue to write and be the voice of the timeshare client to the industry where and when I can.

And don’t forget that you, the public, play an important role in all of this. Get educated, speak up, don’t fall for the “same old, same old,” and remember–it’s your vacation . . . get the most out of it!

–Lisa Ann Schreier, The Timeshare Crusader, is the founder of Timeshare Insights (www.timeshareinsights.com) and the author of Surviving A Timeshare Presentation . . . Confessions From The Sales Table, and Timeshare Vacations For Dummies. Ms. Schreier offers a 20% discount on her consulting services to Holiday clients. E-mail her at lisa@timeshareinsights.com for information.

WALLET FRIENDLY: Time shares, condo hotels and home rentals reduce the cost of a visit to Las Vegas

By Beverly Beyette
LOS ANGELES TIMES
LAS VEGAS - When Las Vegas was in its infancy, high-end hotels practically gave away rooms to lure gamblers. Today, travelers can break the bank paying for a few nights’ lodging. But there are alternatives - condo hotels, time shares and vacation-home rentals.
Time shares are as plentiful as slot machines. Besides those already built, several more are under construction. When not occupied by owners, they’re usually available for short-term rental, as are units in condo hotels, another fast-growing segment of the market.

On a recent trip, I stayed at the Platinum, a new condo hotel not far from the Strip, and at Hilton Grand Vacations Club, a time share at the Strip’s north end. A suite - a small apartment really - at the Platinum was $195 a night midweek, including tax; a room with kitchenette at the Hilton averaged $191 a night for three nights including a weekend. [read story]
Don’t forget to check out Holiday’s selection of Las Vegas timeshares, available, as always, at 60% to 80% below retail prices.

The Real Truths About Timeshare

A recent article found floating around the Internet lately, entitled, “The Top Five Reasons Why Timeshares Are A Bad Investment,” has me hopping mad. I am tired of listening to the same old stuff about how timeshares, whether tied to real estate or not, are a poor investment.
If you buy a timeshare, ANY timeshare, as a real estate investment, you do not understand what you are buying. And if you sell a timeshare, ANY timeshare, as a real estate investment, you do not understand what you are selling.

I won’t give the author of the article any more credit; he has done enough disservice as it is. However, I will rebut his points one by one.
1. TIME VALUE OF MONEY

If someone came up to you 10 years ago and offered you a deal whereby for $5,000 you could receive all the gasoline for all the cars you would ever drive, would you consider this a good deal? The answer for most of us would be a resounding “YES.” Back when I started driving, gas was $.74 a gallon. Today, I filled up for $2.65 a gallon.

Timeshare operates on the same premise. You are, in fact, pre-paying for tomorrow’s use at today’s price. If 10 years ago you were offered an opportunity to pay $5,000 for a one-week quality vacation every year forever, wouldn’t you have taken it? If vacations were important to you, then you would have been foolish not to take the offer.
2. MAINTENANCE FEES

Again the author makes these fees out to be specific to timeshare only. Let’s be serious. When you rent a hotel room for $142 a night (the US average according to AAA this year) you are also paying your maintenance fees, unless you are doing landscaping work, cleaning the pool or overhauling the roof. How much of what you are paying is for using the room, and how much is for the maintenance fee? They keep that information from you.

At least with a timeshare, you know upfront what the fees are. Again, shame on anyone who purchases a timeshare without knowing what the fees are, what they were last year, and the year before that and knowing what the cap, if any, is.

If you buy a car today for around $30,000 would you expect to not pay maintenance fees? When you buy a house, don’t you have to pay to keep the place up? Can you rent a hotel room for less than maintenance fees? Of course you can! The average annual timeshare maintenance fee last year was about $550. That comes to about $78 per night. And you’re going to find a hotel room for $78 a night where? Of course, if you are happy with a $78 hotel room, then by all means, stay away from timeshare.

3. A DEPRECIATNG ASSET

Yes, if you purchase from a developer and pay the current average of $15,000, you can turn around in two years and expect to get considerably less than that. But compare that with almost anything else you buy. A car, for instance, that you buy at $30,000 and finance. The second you drive it out of the dealer you take a $5,000 hit at least. Drive it for a year or two and you’re down $10,000. Drive it until you can’t anymore, say 15 years, sell it for $2,000 and then you have to start all over again.

It’s the same thing with furniture, computers, clothing, CDs, electronics and everything else.
Timeshares should NEVER be purchased with an eye for selling them. Timeshares should be purchased with an eye for using them. And unlike the car, the furniture, the computer, the clothing, the CDs, the electronics and everything else, they don’t have a shelf life, they don’t expire, they don’t have to be replaced . . . you just have to pay an annual fee to keep your home resort up to date.

Of course, if you buy a timeshare on the resale market from a reputable organization such as Holiday, you are going to pay considerably LESS than the $15,000 average, so the “depreciating asset” myth is just that, a myth.

4. LOW RENTAL RATES

Yes, you can stay in some timeshares for less than the cost of owning the same timeshare if you don’t purchase from the developer. When you purchase from a legitimate reseller, I can almost guarantee that you will save money over renting.

If you like to rent, then by all means continue to rent. That’s Basic Timeshare 101. But if you like to own your vacation, vacation in nicer places than before, have something to hand down to future generations, have more control over your vacations, timeshare is the way to go.

5. EXCHANGES

No one ever said that using a timeshare was going to be free, did they? While I happen to disagree with the rising exchange rates that both RCI and II charge for a transaction that most owners do themselves, in the long run, those fees don’t add up to that much. And any savvy timeshare owner had better be checking up on the many other timeshare exchange companies that are available. Just because the resort is affiliated with one of the 2 major exchange companies doesn’t mean you have to use them.

The author makes a point of saying that developers are not interested in updating and/or remodeling resorts. That is just not true. Of course, there will always be some unscrupulous developer out there, but it really is up to the consumer to ask questions beyond, “How much does it cost?” And with all the resources out there for consumers, it is a very simple thing to get other owners’ views on a particular resort.

As for the ridiculous statement, “Let’s just hope you don’t buy a timeshare in hurricane country,” again, consumers need to ask good questions about what type of insurance the resort has and the fees associated with it.

In closing, let me reiterate a few points:

• No timeshare, even real estate-based timeshare, should ever be purchased or sold as a real estate investment. As I said in my first book, Surviving A Timeshare Presentation . . . Confessions From The Sales Table: “Timeshare is not Donald Trump-type real estate.”
• It is imperative for consumers to ask a lot of questions before making any purchase. Questions about annual fees, exchange fees, insurance costs, etc. are basic.
• Understand the exchange or trading system, whichever one you are going to be using. An off-season week in Alabama is simply not going to trade for a high-season week in Hilton Head. No matter what the salesperson says, or no matter how much you want to believe it.

For more information, check back with Holiday and Timeshare Insights (www.timeshareinsights.com) frequently. You’re going to be seeing us everywhere in the coming months with our innovative ‘”Timeshare Bootcamps.”

Lisa Ann Schreier, a/k/a “The Timeshare Crusader,” is the founder of Timeshare Insights, a consumer consulting and education service. Ms. Schreier is the author of two best-selling books about timeshare and is a frequent guest and contributor to major media outlets. She was recently featured on Good Morning America and Kiplingers Personal Finance.

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