What’s the Difference Between a Points-Based Timeshare and a Weeks-Based
Timeshare — and Which is Better?

So, you’ve heard a lot about timeshare travel and you’re thinking about taking the next step, but some of the terminology and jargon used in the timeshare industry has left you a bit confused. Now what?

If you’re a little unclear on some of the finer details of timeshare travel, don’t worry — you’re definitely not alone. To those who are unfamiliar with the industry, some of the lingo that gets tossed around can be a bit confusing. However, with just a bit of background research, you should be up to speed and speaking fluent “Timeshare-ese” in no time at all.
If you’ve begun to browse through timeshare brochures and websites, you’ve probably already run across the terms “weeks” and “points.” In the context of the timeshare industry, these two terms describe one of the most important distinctions when it comes to categorizing different types of timeshares. Learning the difference between them can help you make the best choice about which type of property best suits your lifestyle.
What are Weeks-Based Timeshares?
Since timeshare travel first became popularized, “weeks” have been the traditional units used to measure each owner’s share of a property. Simply put, the term “weeks” refers to the number of weeks each year you can stay at the property. In some cases, weeks-based timeshares refer to a specific date each year, although in other cases, the week is “floating” and can be scheduled to fit your travel plans each year.
Some timeshare travelers prefer the ease and convenience of weeks-based plans, as there is no uncertainty involved as to the property’s availability. If your timeshare ownership is linked to a specifically-deeded week, you have the comfort and security of knowing your travel plans are settled well in advance. However, if you like more flexibility when it comes to travel, weeks-based systems may not be your best bet.

What are Points-Based Timeshares?

Over the last several years, a new system known as “points” has revolutionized the timeshare industry. Both new resorts and established giants in the industry have opted to use points-based ownership models instead of the traditional weeks-based system.

In a points-based system, buyers purchase a set number of points and then use them however they would like to on a year-to-year basis. The points are swapped for lodging, whether on a nightly or a weekly system. If points are not used during a certain year, they can often be “banked” and applied in a subsequent year.

Timeshare travelers who prefer a points-based system love the flexibility and virtually infinite destination choices that are available to them with this approach. The sense of being “locked in” to a certain resort property does not apply in points-based systems, and this degree of travel freedom is getting a lot of attention from both new and experienced timeshare travelers alike. However, the process of making changes can sometimes involve some time-consuming administrative work.

So, are weeks-based or points-based timeshares a better deal? That answer is up to you. If you like the security and peace-of-mind of having deeded weeks at a specific resort property, a traditional weeks-based approach might be best for you. On the other hand, if you like to have more flexibility and choice, check out a points-based plan. No matter what your travel preferences are, there’s sure to be a timeshare out there that suits your lifestyle. Bon voyage!

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Timeshare Industry’s Leading Convention Caps Year of Phenomenal Growth

There’s just one place in the world where you’re guaranteed to run into all the top names in timeshares, and that’s the American Resort Development Association’s annual convention. In 2008, the ARDA convention was held at The Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada from April 6-10. As always, the trade show was a rousing success, packed full of nearly 300 exciting booths and displays that unveiled the hottest new timeshare developments around the world.

The annual ARDA convention offers timeshare industry professionals a great opportunity to discover the latest trends and learn more about the travel hotspots that are likely to draw the most attention from tourists during the busy summer season. Throughout the entirety of the weeklong convention, eight sessions of workshops, panels, lectures, and classes are conducted by an array of experts, representatives of leading timeshare companies, hospitality industry analysts, and travel professionals. This year, sessions covering everything from emerging trends in the travel industry to new concepts in timeshare travel were held.

The ARDA convention also provides an all-too-rare opportunity for busy timeshare industry professionals to network, socialize, and blow off a bit of steam. The golf tournament that is held concurrently with the annual convention is always a popular activity, and the meet-and-greets that close each day are packed to the brim with leading luminaries and rank-and-file employees alike, offering a treasure trove of valuable networking opportunities. Rumor has it that more than a few major deals were sealed behind the scenes during the convention, as well.

If you’re a timeshare industry professional or a savvy traveler who’s interested in learning more about the ins and outs of the industry, make plans now to attend to 2009 convention, which is scheduled for March 29 through April 2 at the Orlando World Center Marriott. We’ll keep an eye out for you!

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Massanutten and Williamsburg Timeshares: Hidden Gems in the
Commonwealth of Virginia

Have you been on one too many beach holidays in your lifetime? Are you craving a new type of timeshare destination? If so, you might want to consider Virginia for your next vacation. Massanutten and Williamsburg are two underappreciated towns that are poised to emerge as some of the hottest spots for timeshare travel in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Williamsburg, Virginia: A Haven for History Buffs

If you’re looking for a destination that offers something a bit more meaningful than the usual tourist diversions, consider the unique historical charms of Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. Built on the site of one of the earliest European outposts on the continent, the pristinely restored village offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of the colonial settlers who built the foundation of our nation centuries ago.

Adjacent to the restored section of Colonial Williamsburg, you’ll find Williamsburg proper, a thoroughly modern town that offers all the conveniences that discerning twenty-first century travelers demand. After a long day of discovery in Colonial Williamsburg, you can retreat to one of the many timeshare properties that have recently been constructed in the area. Many of the resorts have a decidedly historical theme, combining the charm of Colonial Williamsburg with state-of-the-art lodging amenities.

Massanutten, Virginia: Hike and Ski to Your Heart’s Content

If you’re the outdoorsy type that prefers a more active vacation, consider the benefits of a stay in one of the hottest timeshare destinations: Massanutten, Virginia. Although Massanutten’s premier tourist attraction is the many ski slopes that surround the area, the picturesque scenery and breathtaking vistas offer something for everyone.

Even the bookworm in your family will have a blast, curled up in front of a blazing fireplace as the skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes. In between skiing jaunts, you can visit one of the many battlefields and colonial settlements in the area for a dose of history. A new water park facility ensures that your family will have fun even if Mother Nature isn’t cooperating with your skiing itinerary.

Massanutten has been a hotbed of new timeshare construction over the last few years. Several ski-oriented resort properties in the area are attracting a lot of attention from travelers interested in timeshare rentals. The allure of the up-and-coming area makes Massanutten a great opportunity for those seeking a long-term timeshare investment, as well.

No matter what your interests, these two locales offer a welcome change of pace from the typical beach vacation. If you’re a savvy traveler who is in the market for a timeshare rental or purchase that’s a bit off the beaten path, don’t forget to check out Virginia – you’ll be glad that you did!

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Cruising with My Timeshare?

                       If you’re an experienced timeshare traveler, you probably already know that this exciting alternative to traditional trip planning offers you a cornucopia of vacation opportunities. But what you may not know is that the latest trend in timeshare travel takes the concept off of dry land and into the sea.That’s right – there are a growing number of timeshare offerings that are now available on cruise lines. If you love the unparalleled relaxation and serenity of a vast ocean vista and you’re interested in the unique benefits of timeshare travel, this innovative combination just might be the thing for you.
              New and veteran timeshare travelers alike have enthusiastically embraced timeshare cruises. As astute industry observers have pointed out, this concept combines two of the most popular travel trends of the last decade – timeshares and cruising – so it is very likely that the popularity and availability of timeshare cruise opportunities will continue to increase exponentially in the near future.

             There are a number of different models that are available in the growing timeshare cruise market. The first type of program offers travelers the opportunity to purchase annual slots on cruise ships that are geared specifically toward the timeshare market. In another variation on this concept, some existing land-based timeshare programs are now allowing their members to select cruises instead of traditional resort properties for their yearly destinations.
Yet another variation on the timeshare cruise model allows travelers who are looking for a one-time travel opportunity to rent or exchange timeshare slots on dedicated cruise lines. This option is most popular among travelers who are planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip, rather than those who are seeking out a long-term vacation investment.
Back in the late 1990s, the first “cruiseshare” cruise lines offered vacations that were primarily routed throughout the Caribbean, but today, timeshare cruises are available literally all over the world. Whether you’re interested in a high-energy environment or a more laid-back atmosphere, there’s a cruiseshare – and a destination – that is likely to be perfect for your needs. 
              Believe it or not, timeshare cruises are a great option for budget-savvy travelers, as well. Unlike many traditional land-based timeshares, most cruiseshares are all-inclusive vacations that charge one fixed fee for all food, entertainment, and gratuities. In addition, travelers who opt to purchase cruise shares can lock in the cost of their future travel, alleviating the headaches and hassle of rising travel prices and budgeting uncertainties.
If you’re looking for a vacation that will take you far beyond traditional hotel travel and you’ve got a taste for high-seas adventure, a timeshare cruise just might be the innovative travel option you’ve been searching for!

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Is Myrtle Beach Replacing Florida as THE Timeshare Destination  West of the Mississippi?

 

For decades, Florida’s white sandy beaches, baby blue skies, and emerald waters captured America’s imagination. When it came to planning a beach vacation, Florida was the default destination for millions of American tourists.

 Although Florida still continues to attract lots of attention from beach-going travelers these days, there’s another Southern locale that’s rising quickly through the ranks of America’s favorite beach getaways. In fact, according to some travel industry analysts, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina may soon emerge as the single most popular beach vacation spot west of the Mississippi.

 What’s the secret behind Myrtle Beach’s recent spike in popularity? Well, in addition to the 60-mile stretch of beautiful shoreline and relatively warm and calm Atlantic waters that are its central attraction, the Myrtle Beach area boasts a treasure trove of family-friendly activities and shopping destinations, not to mention a full roster of both down-home and high-end eateries. With several world-class golf courses in the area, Myrtle Beach now ranks 9^th among vacationers who want to combine time on the beach with some time on the links.

 Another part of Myrtle Beach’s unique appeal is the fact that it is one of the most timeshare-friendly vacation spots in the region. In fact, according to a 2006 survey, Myrtle Beach ranked first among all American cities as the most desirable spot for vacation-home and timeshare ownership. In the 2006 and 2007 seasons, a popular travel website reported that Myrtle Beach was the number one destination in terms of overall timeshare rentals.

 Although the Myrtle Beach area has seen some expansion in traditional accommodation options, the major growth has been concentrated on condos, villas, and other timeshare-friendly lodging. As of 2007, a total of 80,000 lodging units are now available in the area, with a large percentage concentrated in the timeshare market.

 If you’re thinking about shaking off the winter doldrums and welcoming spring with a beach getaway, consider Myrtle Beach, South Carolina as a destination. Who knows – you just might like it so much that you’ll want a timeshare of your own there!

 

 

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Timeshare Industry Comings and Goings
Against all odds, the timeshare industry has enjoyed unprecedented growth and dynamic expansion over the course of the last decade. Even as the traditional hospitality industry has stalled and faltered, the timeshare industry has forged ahead, outpacing all expectations.

As a result of this unparalleled growth and expansion in the timeshare market, there are always lots of exciting new developments to report. Let’s take a look at some of the latest and hottest news, chit-chat, and survey data to emerge from the fast-paced timeshare marketplace.

Timeshare Owners Report New Vacation Favorites
With the convenience of timeshare ownership, you have the world at your fingertips. Without all of the hassle of traditional vacation home ownership to weigh you down, your toughest decision may be deciding where to spend your next week off! According to a recent survey, the top-ten timeshare vacation preferences in the United States are:

· Florida

· California

· Hawaii

· Arizona

· New York

· Nevada

· Colorado

· South Carolina

· Alaska

· North Carolina

Timeshare Industry Bands Together to Provide Vacation Space to Wounded Vets
Timeshare vacations are all about living your dream – but for some wounded veterans, life after combat injuries can be nightmarish. Under the direction of the American Resort Development Association, timeshare owners across the United States are banding together to provide veterans who are recovering from combat wounds a place to rest and heal. Property owners and operators throughout the nation have donated vacant properties, extra weeks, and, in some cases, even the most sought-after weeks in high season to ensure that our troops and their families can enjoy a place of peaceful respite as they recover.

If you would like to donate a timeshare or other resources to the effort, please contact the program coordinator at this address:

COL R. John Cully, USA, Ret.
Vice President, Government Marketing, ICE
843/301-1776
john.cully@icevacations.com

Name Your Dream Vacation – and Live it!

The flexibility of timeshare ownership lets you fulfill your wildest travel dreams. When you’re in the market for a timeshare, make sure you select a property that provides the level of flexibility your lifestyle demands. With some properties, the sky’s the limit – literally!

A recent survey of the timeshare industry ranked the most popular types of timeshare destinations. In order of popularity, the most common picks included:

· Beach

· Lakes

· Golf

· Ski

· Island

· Theme park

· Urban

· Rural

· Gaming

· Desert

 Be sure to watch this space for more breaking timeshare industry news. Bon voyage!

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A Bounty of New Resort Properties Coming Soon to the Timeshare Industry

Even as the traditional hotel and hospitality industries have continued to suffer stagnation and lackluster performance throughout this decade, the timeshare sector has enjoyed remarkable growth.  Some industry analysts say that this trend may indicate that traditional hotel travel is gradually becoming obsolete as more people turn to the larger, more luxurious, and more inviting accommodations that many timeshare properties offer.

Regardless of the economic forces that are driving the timeshare industry’s remarkable growth, one fact is undeniably clear – timeshare travelers have more choice today than ever before. In 2006 and 2007, nearly 50,000 new timeshare units were constructed. In 2008 alone, a whopping 43,950 new units are planned for development – and these figures don’t even take into account new construction outside of North America. 

Here are just a handful of the hot new properties open now or coming soon:

Harborside Resort at Atlantis –Paradise Island, Bahamas

This 392-unit property overlooks the crystal-clear waters of Nassau. Kitchenettes and all the amenities of home make your vacation stress-free – the way it ought to be! An on-site aquarium and marine habitat includes eleven exhibits and over 50,000 fish and other sea creatures. 

Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas —

Lahaina, HawaiiThis luxurious ocean-side property offers 106 villas and the unsurpassed convenience of an all-inclusive vacation package. The family-friendly resort offers nightly entertainment, a fun pirate ship-shaped pool, and many options for childcare and children’s activities.

Hilton Grand Vacations Club – New York City, NY

In 2007, construction began on the first new timeshare property to be built in New York City in decades. Slated for opening in 2009, the resort will offer 161 mid-range and luxury units in a prime midtown locale on West 57th Street. 

The Royal Haciendas at Moxche Beach – Playa del Carmen, Mexico

This planned golf resort will be situated in Mexico’s Riviera Maya. The construction will consist of two resort properties, each of which will contain 252 units. A final phase, which will involve the construction of 55 villas, is slated for completion in 2009. Half of the units will offer beach-front convenience, and all offer ocean views. 

So what are you waiting for? With hundreds of new and exciting properties to choose from, timeshare vacations are the smart choice for today’s savvy travelers. 

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Everyone knows that vacations are a great way to relax and unwind, but the pressure of planning the picture-perfect trip can be enough to make you want to just stay home. Compared to choosing the right dates, finding a vacant hotel room, and planning your vacation budget, the peaceful tedium of your office cubicle can start to sound downright welcoming!

Before you throw up your hands in surrender and give up on the whole idea of a vacation, take a minute to consider your options. There’s a new alternative to the old-fashioned approach to vacation planning. It’s time to say goodbye to cranky travel agents, unpredictable hotel reservations, unplanned expenses, and the risk of major disappointment — and give some thought to the benefits of timeshare ownership.

Owning a timeshare means saying goodbye to everything you’ve always dreaded about trip planning, vacations, and traveling. With timeshare ownership, there’s no downside — you’ll enjoy a bounty of unique benefits and avoid all of the little annoyances and inconveniences that, when added up, can ruin your hard-earned break from the rat race.

Ready to permanently liberate yourself from the stress of vacation planning? Here are just a few of the ways that timeshare ownership can help.

· Stay on top of your vacation budget. Because the annual costs of timeshare ownership are clearly spelled out in advance, you’ll never again face the unwelcome surprise of “vacation inflation.”

· Avoid pricey upkeep and maintenance costs. With timeshare ownership, you share maintenance costs with your co-owners. You get to enjoy a well-kept property without the headaches and hassle of traditional vacation home ownership.

· Steer clear of unwelcome surprises. Have you ever booked what you thought was the hotel room of your dreams, only to find out when you arrive that it’s nothing like what you expected? With timeshare ownership, you know exactly what to expect, so you can relax and enjoy your vacation in the location and surroundings you have chosen.

· Enjoy the comforts of a home away from home. Do cold, impersonal hotel rooms put a damper on your good mood? Timeshare properties offer the familiarity and warmth of a home away from home, offering your family a sense of coziness and comfort that hotels can’t match.

· Pick a program that suits your preferences and lifestyle. Whether you like returning to a favorite vacation spot year after year or exploring exotic new locales, there’s a timeshare ownership program that’s right for you. No matter what your flexibility needs are, chances are that you can find a property that will exceed your expectations.

Vacations shouldn’t be just another source of stress and anxiety. Think outside of the box of traditional trip planning and explore your options. Timeshare ownership is a wonderful alternative to the aggravations that come with old-fashioned travel.

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