The amenities and security of timeshares have made travelers prefer them to hotels and even home vacation rentals. The occupancy rate of timeshares has been higher than that of hotels before and after the pandemic. As a result of their outstanding amenities and spacious units, timeshares are proven to cost tens of thousands of dollars less over a lifetime than hotels or vacation rentals.
What is a Timeshare?
In order to understand why timeshares offer an experience unlike alternative travel methods, it is essential to understand what a timeshare is. Timeshares, also referred to as “vacation ownership,” is a lifetime product that allows owners to vacation yearly. In short, a timeshare is a vacation or resort property that is divided into fractional or shared ownership units. Owners have an increment of time, usually in weekly increments, in which they use their shared ownership.
Previously, timeshares owners had a fixed week at a resort that they visited at the same time every year. Now, with vacation clubs and brands, timeshare owners use a points-based system that allows them to travel to different resorts whenever they choose. Top hospitality brands like Wyndham, Marriott, Bluegreen and Hilton have timeshare resorts worldwide. This allows vacation owners to travel to almost any location. Having a timeshare lets you explore new places year after year and revisit your favourites as well.
Save Money With Timeshares
The cost of a timeshare can be several thousand dollars upfront, while the price of a hotel room might only be a few hundred dollars per night. However, you are paying for years of vacations now, which can be used over a lifetime. Because of this, you can save thousands of dollars. For people who consistently take vacations every year, buying a timeshare can ensure they won’t have to worry about inflation in the future.
The American Resort Development Association reported that the average timeshare price in 2021 was $24,140. When you buy a timeshare off the resale market, you can find lower prices on a timeshare and receive many of the same benefits.
Vacation Exchange Allows Endless Travel Opportunites
There are some people who enjoy staying at the same resort for every vacation. As a result, this timeshare becomes like their second home. However, as we mentioned earlier, timeshares have evolved. So, for those who want to vacation to new locations every year, you can. Resort Condominiums International (RCI) and Interval International (II) are the prominent exchange companies affiliated with most timeshare resorts. In exchange for a small fee, these companies allow you to exchange your week/points for a stay at another resort.
The ownership will be converted into exchange points, which will have their own seasons and demand. Hotels and timeshare resorts around the world are available for owners to book with their exchange points. You can also use these vacation exchange programs to redeem points for cruises, excursions, high-adventure trips, airfare, rental cars, event tickets and passes to popular attractions. The opportunities are endless when it comes to vacation exchange.
Timeshares Are More Spacious
In contrast to a hotel, timeshares offer more space than a typical hotel room. A standard hotel room, on average, is less than 400 square feet. In contrast, the typical timeshare has an average size of 1,030 square feet per unit. While on vacation, families can stretch out and enjoy privacy thanks to so much additional space. You can also prepare a home-cooked meal in your villa because timeshare units often have fully-equipped kitchens. In most timeshare units, you’ll also find washers and dryers, adding to your convenience.
Timeshare Resorts Have Fabulous Amenities
Home vacation rentals have the space and many of the same accommodations as home. However, timeshare rentals don’t only offer additional space– they offer fabulous amenities! These amenities could include pools, spas, fitness centers, private beach access, golf courses, events as well as activities. Your vacation home rental essentially amounts to paying for space if it isn’t located within a large community or doesn’t offer these amenities. In addition, you miss out on customer services, including a concierge or security. Traveling isn’t cheap, so having these amenities allows you to relax but also stay entertained for free all from your resort.
