The RedWeek.com Blog

A Great Summer Timeshare Vacation - Family Fun in Orlando

2012-05-17T07:21:00.001-07:00

There are many wonderful places to visit in Florida, but Orlando is by far the most family friendly place. My family and I have had some of the most memorable experiences visiting Orlando. Here are some of our personal favorite places to visit in Orlando.

Magic Kingdom – Whatever you do in Orlando, don’t miss the Magic Kingdom. That’s like going to New York and skipping out on the Statue of Liberty. My family is full of 7 kids of all ages, and we all had fun riding the rides (especially Pirates of the Caribbean and Splash Mountain). And everyone in our family enjoyed the Wishes Nighttime Spectacular. It is the biggest spectacular at Magic Kingdom, and includes a firework show like I’ve never seen before.

Epcot Center –The Epcot Center was probably our favorite place to visit as a family. We don’t often have the opportunity to travel internationally as a family, but walking around the Epcot Center gave us a taste of what it’s like to be in 11 different countries all in one day. Each country in the park has fun bits of history, famous landmarks, and traditional garb from each country represented at the Epcot Center.

There is also an abundance of great international cuisine to try at the Epcot Center, so come with an empty stomach. My family tried a lot of fun foreign food and we couldn’t help but stop a few times at the French pastry shop. The pastries were delicious and worth every calorie. Visiting the Epcot center was the perfect way to see which countries sparked our interest the most. We eventually travelled to Asia as a family later, based on our interest from the Epcot Center.

Universal Studios – Universal Studios is another place you won’t want to miss. We felt like we were taking part in our favorite shows as we visited Spiderman, the Hulk, the Mummy and the Harry Potter attractions. Harry Potter is a family favorite of ours, so we were pretty thrilled about the fact that you can explore the halls of Hogwarts, see magical creatures, and that you can even get your own wand. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on Universal Studios.

NASA – Most places in Orlando celebrate creations of the imagination, but NASA is one place where you learn about spectacular events that are rooted in American history. NASA is a great place to take the family to learn about various launchings of spacecraft’s and landing on the moon.

There are great museums and presentations that provide an education unmatched by any book. After visiting NASA, one of my brothers went on to go to space camp, and is now majoring in Engineering with an Aerospace emphasis. NASA is a great place to foster family education.

Orlando is the perfect place for a family vacation. You can spend weeks in Orlando and still find other fun places that will help you build wonderful memories with your family. And for a budget-friendly family vacation check out the many Greater Orlando timeshare rentals.

Our guest author, Ashley R. Cummings, is an avid traveler and writer. She loves going new places and meeting new people.

Photo Credits: familyvacationcritic.com

Four-Generation Disney Family Featured as May “Timeshare Fan of the Month”

2012-05-16T06:28:00.004-07:00

The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) is featuring a Disney Vacation Club owner during the month of May as part of the industry’s effort to share the amenities, experiences, and heartfelt memories of timeshare vacations.

Four generations of the Sayers family have enjoyed their 15 years of ownership at Disney’s Old Key West Resort in Orlando, Florida and they say it’s provided some of the best memories and experiences they have had—and they look forward to making more.

From celebrating Dad’s 74th birthday, to watching the kids’ eyes light up at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, to holding hands in sheer anticipation of their vacation, this family has never looked back.

“We started a family tradition that’s encompassed four generations by becoming Disney Vacation Club Members,” said Donald Sayers of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. “It’s worked out exactly the way we hoped it would.”

Their video is the seventh in a monthly series showcasing the passion of timeshare owners.

With more than 8 million owners, a satisfaction rate of 85 percent, and an occupancy rate that outpaced hotel occupancy by more than 20 percent*, it is clear that this segment of the travel industry is faring well.

Next month, look for vacation memories from Festiva Hospitality Group owners who are passionate about their timeshare. All timeshare fans are invited to tell their story on ARDA's Vacation Better site.

Timeshare and vacation ownership are often used as interchangeable terms. Timeshare may be purchased through deeded property ownership, right-to-use, or a points-based program. Owners purchase a villa, usually in one-week increments, within a fixed (same week each year) or “floating” system. Floating time allows the owner to schedule each year’s vacation for the desired week within a specified season.

Timeshare Travel #TravelTuesday – Virginia Beach

2012-05-15T05:42:00.001-07:00

Poseidon watching over the Virginia Beach Strand, Virginia Beach, VA. Submitted by Joe Gosha from North Carolina.

Submit your photo to #TravelTuesday! Just send it via email to us at: learnmore (at) redweek (dot) com. Let us know your name, where you are from, and where the photo was taken.

Appalachian Trail Magic and a Timeshare Vacation

2012-05-14T07:22:00.001-07:00

Timeshares plus the Appalachian Trail can equal vacation magic. The Appalachian Trail is an amazing trail that stretches over 2100 miles across 14 eastern U.S. states. It goes from the hot, southern climes of Georgia to the most northern reach of the continental U.S. in Maine. An unofficial extension continues on into Canada.

The Appalachian Trail offers varied natural beauty as it winds from lowlands in the south up through subalpine regions, and even some true alpine areas where you might find yourself above the timberline.

Out on the trail you have the rare opportunity to encounter any one of 2,000 rare, threatened, or endangered plant and animal species. You’ll also have a chance to see more customary animals such as deer, elk, and moose. Black Bear sightings are especially common in the Shenandoah National Park and the New Jersey sections.

Along the entire length of the Trail, hikers encounter “Trail Magic.” These are the “Appalachian Trail Angels” that volunteer as guardians and good-Samaritans for the hikers and day backpackers. Many do their good deeds anonymously – you might come through a thickly wooded area into a clearing to find coolers alongside the trail, filled with bottles of chilled water and cans of cold beer.

Other Angels offer their version of Trail Magic by inviting hikers to a free barbecue meal at their home. These volunteers can serve up to 2000 meals over the course of a season. And still other Angels will give you a free ride to the trailhead and then back to your timeshare.

The hikers of the Appalachian Trail have created a sub-culture of “thru-hikers” – those who make the entire 2100-mile trek in one season, generally a six-month commitment. Thru-hikers have “hiker handles” – names by which they are known along the Trail, and that become infamous in Appalachian Trail lore.

If you’d like to hike the Appalachian Trail, but aren't quite ready for the thru-hiker experience, you can easily do day trips by having comfortable accommodations with budget-friendly timeshare rentals as your hub, available in every state that the Trail crosses.

An amazing three to four million people hike some portion of the Appalachian Trail every year. But that number is spread out over 2100 miles, 14 states, and an entire season. This is one activity where you can feel completely alone, enjoy a silent and precious communion with nature, and at the same time know you are not alone if are you’re ever in need of help, or just want to make new friends.

Photo Credit (top): appalachiantrail.com

Photo Credit (center): appalachiantreks.blogspot.com

Timeshare Mother’s Day Idea – Fioli Flower Show

2012-05-11T06:58:00.002-07:00

Just thirty miles south of downtown San Francisco is Fioli - one of the finest remaining country estates of the early 20^th century. Rent a San Francisco timeshare and take Mom down to the town of Woodside for a Mother’s Day experience she’ll never forget.

The 654-acre Fioli estate, a historic site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, includes a 36,000 square-foot Georgian country house, and a magnificent 16 acre English Renaissance garden.

And held every Mother’s Day weekend, beginning on Thursday, is Fioli’s spectacular Flower Show.

Each year exhibiting professional and amateur floral designers from the greater Bay Area create floral masterpieces depicting their interpretations of the theme, which for 2012 is “The Secret Garden, Discover the Magic.”

This floral spectacle is staged throughout the country mansion and around its spectacular gardens. In addition are flower-arranging demonstrations, garden vignettes, horticultural exhibits, music and tours of the beautiful gardens.

Continue a special day for Mom by taking her to Fioli’s Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch, or Filoli’s High Tea; both are catered. Additionally, pre-ordered boxed lunches are available on Saturday and Sunday for a lovely picnic out by the gardens.

Filoli, designed by prominent San Francisco architect Willis Polk, was built in 1915 for Mr. and Mrs. William Bowers Bourn, prominent San Franciscans whose chief source of wealth was the Empire Mine, a hard-rock gold mine in Grass Valley, California.

Landscape designer, painter and sculptor Bruce Porter brought his artistic talents to the plans for the layout of the extensive formal gardens.

Bourn arrived at the unusual name Filoli by combining the first two letters from the key words of his credo: “Fight for a just cause; Love your fellow man; Live a good life.”

“Exquisitely beautiful and ever-changing, the gardens of Filoli offer visitors the chance to learn about the estate's renowned horticulture practices or to simply enjoy the serenity for which they were designed.”

San Francisco timeshare rentals start at an amazingly low $100/night.

Photo Credit (top): fioli.org

Photo Credit (center): home-garden-info.com

How to Be a Responsible Timeshare Guest and Help Save the Environment on Your Travels

2012-05-10T07:38:00.000-07:00

Thousands of tons of carbon dioxide are being thrown into the air every second of the day. How long can nature handle such tremendous stress? And what is your role in this scenario as a globe-trotting traveler?

Caused due to the burning of fossil fuels and the carbon dioxide that's released, global warming is a true symptom of travel. Yet in order to halt the march of global warming, we can all do our bit. Here are a few ideas to help you on your way to becoming a more responsibly minded timeshare guest.

Use Public Transport. Whenever you are out away from your timeshare, ensure that you travel by public transportation systems instead of private cars or taxis. This will not only reduce your carbon footprint but also help you learn a lot more about the place you've chosen to holiday in too!

Since using public transport will often involve you having to ask for directions and interact with the locals, you get a richer experience. You can also give preference to electric trains rather than buses or diesel vehicles; or if the place you're going sight-seeing is not that far away, you can always walk too.

Keep Your Energy Expenditure in Your Timeshare to a Minimum. Another important thing you can do to become more eco-conscious is to remember to turn off the power in the rooms of your timeshare when you don't need them. If the temperature is normal and bearable, you do not need to turn on the heater or the air conditioner on either. If the weather is balmy, turn off the air cooler in your room. The environment will thank you for it!

Switch off the lights of the bathroom don't leave your timeshares TV running all night and day long, no matter how good those foreign programs are! Heavy electrical devices like the television consume a lot of energy and let's face it, who goes on a vacation to watch TV anyway? Go for a walk around the neighborhood of your timeshare and get to know the place better instead!

Opt for a Green-Energy Efficient Timeshare. Another way to cut down on your energy use is to select your timeshare carefully. Many options do their bit to help save the environment - you can even find examples with solar energy panels and solar water heating systems too!

By maintaining cleanliness, limiting your waste and recycling during your stay, you can rest assured that you're really doing your bit to help. It's not too late for you to become the eco-conscious traveler you always wanted to be!

Learn more about which timeshare resorts are going green.

This post was written by Will Peach, editor of the gap year travel site GapDaemon.com and the overland travel magazine DontFlyGo.com.

Image Credit: the3dstudio.com

A Phoenix Timeshare Rental - and The Best Mother’s Day

2012-05-09T07:40:00.000-07:00

Greater Phoenix is the place to be on Mother’s Day. And renting a budget-friendly timeshare is the way to give Mom a special time. Here are 4 top ways to give her a Mother’s Day weekend she’ll always remember.

1. Cowboys and Jazz. What a combination! And one that works when you take Mom to “Whistle A Western Tune – Songs of Cowboys and Jazz.” Renowned cowboy fiddler Ron Privett joins forces with the extraordinary Carolyn Eynon Singers (12 of whom are mothers!) as they celebrate Arizona’s Centennial.

The program has not one but two highlights. The first is the world premier of Michael Frassett’s “To The Grand Canyon.” And the second is a sing-along when all Moms in the audience are invited to raise their voices in tribute to the grand state of Arizona by singing the Arizona State Song! This evening is not to be missed by any Mom and will be held May 12 at the Tempe Center for the Arts.

2. Mother’s Day Tea. Maybe Mom is more the Tea and Crumpets type. Take her for an elegant high tea experience at the Rtiz-Carlton in Phoenix, hosted on both Saturday, May 12, and Sunday, May 13, by Tea Maitre d’ Jeffery Hattrick. Mom will enjoy a variety of teas, as well as tea-infused sandwiches and pastries, and entertainment.

3. At the Improv. For lots of laughs take Mom to a special Mother’s Day event at Jester’Z Improv in Scottsdale. Here local actors, comedians, and stand-up comics will perform improvisational comedy just for Mom, based on suggestions from the audience. These shows are suitable for all ages, so the entire family can join Mom for some good fun. There are two performances each on Friday and Saturday nights.

4. Mother’s Day With Butterflies. If Mom is a nature lover, she’s sure to love the idea of spending Mother’s Day amidst colorful fluttering butterflies. Take her to the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix for the final day of its special Spring 2012 Butterfly exhibit on May 13. Hundreds of butterflies are housed in the spacious Marshal Butterfly Pavilion – a flight enclosed lush garden that recreates an appealing butterfly habitat.

Your Mother’s Day trip can be budget-friendly and relaxing with Greater Phoenix timeshare rentals that start at just $70/night.

Photo Credit (1): carolynenyonsingers.com

Photo Credit (2): about.com

Photo Credit (3): sixminutes.dlugan.com

Photo Credit (4): rohrer.blogspot.com

Timeshare Travel #TravelTuesday – Amsterdam

2012-05-08T07:22:00.000-07:00

Flower bulb market in Amsterdam, Holland. Submitted by Shirley V of California.

Submit your photo to #TravelTuesday! Just send it via email to us at: learnmore (at) redweek (dot) com. Let us know your name, where you are from, and where the photo was taken.

San Diego Harbor: 3 Ways for Fun on Your Timeshare Vacation

2012-05-07T13:03:00.001-07:00

A timeshare vacation to San Diego not only gives you great beaches, but San Diego is also known for a number of world-famous activities. These include the San Diego Zoo, Safari Animal Park, Legoland, and the very first Sea World.

What doesn’t seem to get as much attention is San Diego’s real centerpiece – its beautiful harbor. There are so many activities to do just around – and on – San Diego Harbor that you could spend your entire San Diego timeshare vacation exploring it. Here are 3 must-dos:

San Diego Harbor Tours. There are a variety of ways to cruise the San Diego Harbor. Two favorites are the 1-hour Harbor Cruise, and the Speedboat Tour.

The Harbor Cruise carries you on a comfortable tour boat for the 13-mile tour of both the North and the South bays, covering over 50 points of interest. You’ll see all types of ships, from the Star of India – an 1863 full-rigged windjammer – to the most modern U.S. Navy aircraft carriers. San Diego is the home port to both the U.S. Ronald Reagan, and the U.S. Carl Vinson, among numerous Navy cruisers, destroyers and even submarines. You might get to see a full regatta race of personal sailing yachts skimming across the harbor, and some private tuna clippers making their way home.

The Speedboat Tour is a clever spin on harbor sightseeing. You actually navigate and drive your own speedboat, following trained guides. You get the thrill of speedboating, combined with a narrated tour of the harbor using wireless headsets.

Maritime Museum of San Diego (see photo right). This exciting museum is actually on the water – on various boats and ships. You’ll be able to board the Star of India – the oldest seafaring ship in the world. You can try to imagine living and working on this ship in the 19th century as it made its way across oceans and stayed at sea for months at a time.

Other boats in the museum’s collection include the Berkley, an 1898 steam ferry that operated across San Francisco Bay for 60 years, and the Californian – the official Tall Ship of the state of California.

A surprise for most people is the HMS Surprise – the replica of a 24-gun frigate from the Nelson era of the English Royal Navy. This ship was actually used in the academy-award winning movie “Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World,” starring Russell Crowe.

USS Midway Museum. Have you ever wondered what it’s like on a real aircraft carrier? Here’s your chance to find out. The USS Midway was completed in 1945, and was the first aircraft carrier to be too big to transit the Panama Canal. The flight deck itself is four acres. There are 25 restored aircraft, some that you can climb into.

And three real operational flight simulators from which to choose, so all ages can have fun pretending to be a Navy aviator stationed on an aircraft carrier. There are single-seat simulators, and two-seat simulators for a pilot and co-pilot. You’ll get to “fly” fighter jets with take-offs, landings, and even engage in dogfighting in very realistic conditions.

Keep your vacation budget-friendly with San Diego timeshare rentals. There are many available throughout San Diego County.

Photo Credit (top): 123rf.com Photo Credit (center): flickriver.com

Timeshare Vacation – 3 Top Cities for Cinco de Mayo

2012-05-04T06:59:00.001-07:00

Plan a timeshare vacation to a city that really knows how to throw a great Cinco de Mayo party! While the Cinco de Mayo celebration originated as a commemoration of the victory by the Mexicans over the French occupational forces of Napoleon III on May 5, 1862, Cinco de Mayo has morphed into an American celebration of Mexican culture.

Below are three top cities in the U.S. where not only is Cinco de Mayo a great day, but you can find budget-friendly timeshare rentals for a great stay.

Los Angeles. A large percentage of the Los Angeles population is Hispanic, so its no surprise that Los Angeles hosts the largest Cinco de Mayo celebration in the world. So much so that typically the celebration starts a couple of weeks ahead, in order to get all of the parades and festivities in. This year special pride is taken with a Cinco de Mayo celebration at the new La Plaza (officially known as LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes). A cultural museum dedicated to telling the story of the Mexican origins of Los Angeles, it also showcases the evolution and contribution of Mexican culture to the city. Find a budget-friendly California timeshare rental – they start at just $93/night.
Las Vegas. Never a city to pass up the chance for a good party, the Las Vegas Strip lights up for Cinco de Mayo. Most casinos and clubs will be offering music and fun, along with wild specials on margaritas and you might even find a tequila-tasting or two. The Luxor’s Tacos & Tequilas restaurant will be holding its second annual “CHiPS and Salsa” event, featuring drinks, food and – Erik Estrada. If you’re looking for a show you can catch Latin comedian Carlos Mencia in his stand-up act at Treasure Island May 6. It’s easy to have a budget-friendly stay with a Las Vegas timeshare rental that starts at just $50/night.
New York City. While typically the further east you go the smaller the Cinco de Mayo celebrations, New York City steps up to the plate with its annual “insanely cheap” Cinco de Mayo Pub Crawl. There is also the 20th annual Cinco de Mayo Mariachi - the Mariachi Real de Mexico seranades partygoers Mad Dog & Beans Mexican Cantina. Or you can show how strong you are by hopping a mechanical bull for the Cinco de Mayo Bullriding Fiesta at Johnny Utah’s where you can also sample “the strongest margaritas this side of the Rio Grande.” Midtown Manhattan offers great deals on New York City timeshare rentals that start at just $111/night.

London Olympics Go Green

2012-05-03T14:31:00.000-07:00

Global warming and ozone depletion are words with which we are all increasingly familiar thanks to the widespread pollution problems surfacing across the globe. The United Kingdom has taken a stand and London has shown that fair play and sportsmanship too can go the green way as the fine tuning of Olympic preparations enter the home run.

Since London is to play host again, British ingenuity has kicked off to make use of this event as a showcase of what can be done if one really is bothered about the environment.

Olympic Zone Park.
The waste and industrial land of Stratford will be no more, not that any of the residents of East London are complaining. It has been turned into the venue for the Olympic Stadium, Olympic Village as well as Aquatics Centre.

Olympics to go green all the way.
Carbon emissions can bid adieu as there have been low carbon emissions during the building of the Park and other venues by cutting down on construction waste and using ecologically compatible resources as well as promotion of healthy living. Thus, it follows the sustainability plan that ensures biodiversity is nurtured, waste eliminated, healthy living in citizens inspired as well as green house gas emissions minimized.

A plan to build on.
One thing to note is how building without a plan swallows up green spaces and forest lands. The Games in London aren’t going to add unnecessarily to the concrete jungle and here’s how:

Usage of existent venues
Building temporary structures with waste management and low emissions
Focus on permanent structures that can be reused even later

To construct with thought:

Dust is a waterloo for most people as it is an allergen and noise is a headache especially from construction sites. It hinders humans as well as animals and birds and so its monitoring is one of the thoughtful measures inculcated
Preserving the habitat of wildlife is important. Reptiles have been removed from the construction site and will be re-introduced later once the process is over so they are not affected by the noise and dust
Pollution of waterways is kept in check. Chemicals and oils or construction materials are prevented from merging with water by observing a code for construction practice

On the side of travel.
Admittedly, traveling and commuting is one of the most stable forms of pollution. Low-carbon travel options are the focus along with health-based projects so that ordinary people too become a part of the One Planet initiative:

Rent bicycles to see London and the Olympic venues during your London timeshare vacation.
Interested walkers can turn the venues of the Games into exploration areas

After the Games:

A wildlife spot in the middle of city life
Sports facilities and playing fields open to all
Economic upsurge of new jobs due to Park maintenance
Cross-city improvements in transportation and the like

So, it’s a win-win situation for all Londonites and timeshare visitors as well.

About Guest Blogger: Kelvin is a consultant working for a bathroom manufacturing firm. He always suggests that clients go for the latest Bathroom Furniture. Having a Good Quality Countertop Basin is both functional and beautiful.

Photo Credit: london2012.com

Timeshare Crusader's Manifesto: All Timeshare Owners Must Read

2012-05-02T14:25:00.000-07:00

Lisa Ann Schreier, The Timeshare Crusader, has written a manifesto addressed to all timeshare owners.

DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, DO BUSINESS, OR EVEN ENTER INTO A CONVERSATION, E-MAIL OR MEETING, WITH A COMPANY THAT INITIATES CONTACT OR A COMPANY THAT YOU DO NOT HAVE A PRIOR RELATIONSHIP WITH, IF IT PERTAINS TO TIMESHARE.

Her post deals with the unsolicited phone calls, e-mails, and direct-mail pieces that timeshare owners are flooded with to either “get-rid of” or sell their timeshare.

At the just-concluded Timeshare Board Members Association (TBMA) meeting, of which Lisa Ann took part, there was a lot of talk about the need to educate consumers, as well as about the financial damage that is being done when owners fall for, “I have a buyer for your timeshare, just send me $1500 for the paperwork” schemes that seem to multiply daily.

While the TBMA works on coming up with one concise message for unsuspecting timeshare owners, Lisa Ann has published her own manifesto. “It’s simple. I’ve been saying it for years. But now I’m asking everyone to read it, remember it, and pass it on.”

Read Lisa Ann’s article in its entirety.

The Timeshare Crusader is a monthly contributor to Redweek.com where she answers questions from members about timesharing and the timeshare industry.

Timeshare Travel #TravelTuesday – British Columbia

2012-05-01T05:08:00.000-07:00

Full moon near Kamloops, British Columbia. Submitted by Sue Giguere of California.

Submit your photo to #TravelTuesday! Just send it via email to us at: learnmore (at) redweek (dot) com. Let us know your name, where you are from, and where the photo was taken.

A May Timeshare Vacation Idea - Mallorca’s Medieval Festival

2012-04-30T06:59:00.004-07:00

If you’re looking for an out-of-the-box timeshare vacation, consider a May trip to the Mediterranean for Mallorca’s Medieval Festival.

Have you ever wondered what it was like to live during medieval times? Many Renaissance Fairs attempt to give a taste of life in the Middle Ages. From California to Florida, Renaissance Fairs abound throughout the United States.

Held in parks or even convention centers, these fairs showcase performers dressed in medieval-style costumes who entertain with music, dance and other activities.

All of this is fun entertainment, but not as authentic as experiencing what is as close to the real thing as is possible in the 21^st century. Travel to Mallorca, one of Spain’s sun-splashed Mediterranean Balearic Islands. Here lies the Capdepera Castle, and its town, founded by Mallorca’s King James II in 1300.

The third weekend in May each year the Capdepera Castle and the town are transformed back to the Middle Ages for the annual Medieval Festival. The Castle itself is open, and, along with the walled area, is festooned with decorations, and surrounded with the sights, smells, and sounds of a festival of the Middle Ages.

Even the townspeople get into the spirit, creating and painting wooden shields and hanging them on the front of their homes, and children decorate banners for the town’s streets. Everywhere colorful ribbons flutter in the breeze.

The main attraction is, of course, the Medieval Market. Here artisans from across the island and from the Spanish mainland display their crafts, and demonstrate their trade. You’ll find glass blowers, shoemakers, blacksmiths, stonemasons, silversmiths, and even cheese makers.

The festival entertainment includes jugglers, clowns, circus shows, and medieval theatre and concerts. All done to the backdrop of this prime castle fortress from the Middle Ages. You simply can’t get any more authentic than that.

Check out the many Spain timeshare rentals and Spain timeshare exchanges available.

Photo Credit (Top): flickr.com

Photo Credit (Bottom): medievalists.net

Take a Timeshare Vacation Where the Food is Fine!

2012-04-27T06:09:00.002-07:00

From RedWeek’s April newsletter comes this great timeshare vacation idea: If you love to eat and love to travel, then you may want to consider Las Vegas for your next vacation. The restaurants of some of the most famous chefs in America can be found in Las Vegas – for example, Emeril's Table 10 at the Venetian, Todd English's Olives at the Bellagio, and Bobby Flay's Mesa Grill in Caesars Palace.

Read on to learn about 3 great timeshare rentals near these amazing restaurants.

1. Marriott’s Grand Chateau

Offers one-, two-,and three-bedroom timeshare villas with fully equipped kitchens, separate living and dining areas, and onsite amenities such as a beautiful rooftop pool and bar.

Timeshare rentals at Marriott's Grand Chateau start at an amazingly low $50/night. Resales start at just $1397.

2. Bluegreen Club 36

Named for the geographic location of Las Vegas on the 36^th parallel, this resort offers one- and two-bedroom timeshare villas, a covered pool, poolside bar, and the onsite Djanel Spa.

Timeshare rentals at the Bluegreen Club 36 start at just $84/night. Resales start at $6500.

3. Planet Hollywood Towers

Fully integrated into the Planet Hollywood casino and entertainment complex, this resort sits right on the Strip. Gaming, dining, entertainment, concerts, shopping, and private cabanas by the pool are all onsite.

Timeshare rentals at the Planet Hollywood Towers start at $156/night. Resales start at $5,500.

Annual maintenance fees apply for all resales. See postings for details.

Have You Ever Considered Using a Limousine on Your NYC Timeshare Vacation?

2012-04-26T06:55:00.000-07:00

Some industries are more open to innovation than others, and it is these which continue to evolve and cross new boundaries. The limousine industry is a relevant example, as in the last decade it has grown from providing niche transportation on special occasions to fulfilling a functional role in the worlds of commerce and aviation.

Alongside a series of social and economic changes, this has changed the perception of the limousine and allowed consumers to consider it as a more functional mode of transport.

The Limo Industry: Where Does it Stand in 2012?

The growth of the limousine industry is showcased best in bustling metropolitan cities like New York, where business innovation and commercialism remain significant sources of economic growth. In NYC, its limousine services have kept pace with such advancement, and developed their fleets to meet a wider range of client demand. No longer synonymous with only bachelor parties or wild nights out on the town, limousines in NYC now boast a more professional and corporate presence.

To begin with, New York has 2 major airports within its boundaries, which has marked the city as something of a gateway to the whole of the U.S.. With airport transfers often difficult to organize for large parties of travelers, limousines have emerged as the ideal choice of vehicle to get them to their destination of choice. They are also now widely used as a corporate mode of transportation, as businesses throughout the city look to courier their valued clients between venues in style, comfort and luxury.

Are Limousines an Affordable Mode of Transport?

As limousine service providers in NYC have continued to develop their fleets and influence brand new markets, so too they have been able to offer far more competitive prices to travelers. Given this and the rising price of fuel, traveling by limo is fast becoming as practical as it is enjoyable.

While limousines have always been regarded as extremely comfortable and luxurious vehicles, it is only recently that the consumers of New York City and America have embraced their affordability and the level of value for money that they offer.

So could a limo in New York and similar vehicles across the globe become the leading choice for functional and everyday travel? Given the considerable evolution that has been experienced within the industry to date, it is reasonable to accept that commuters will soon be willing to book a limousine that takes them to work or their children to school. As long as the pricing remains affordable to U.S. commuters, the additional style and reliability offered by limousines could soon be leading the way in functional travel.

The Bottom Line

While it may have seemed unlikely just a decade ago, limousines are now emerging as a consumer favorite for functional travel. Over time, limousines throughout the world could well become synonymous with practicality and substance in addition to style and luxury.

Consider comfortable limousine service instead of taxis the next time you are enjoying a timeshare trip to New York City.

Lewis Humphries is a professional blogger with a passion for travel and his finger on the pulse of evolving business trends. A New York or Times Square limo can meet a range of everyday and extraordinary travel needs, and offer you outstanding value for your money.

Enjoy Enchanting April and May with a Spring Timeshare Vacation – Part 2

2012-04-25T07:28:00.000-07:00

Spring is its own special time of the year for timeshare vacations around the globe. Paul Casciato at Rueters has edited a list of places where April and May weather is delightful and the spring season is in full bloom. Part 2 of our two-part series takes a look at four more great spring destinations were budget-friendly timeshare rentals and great timeshare exchanges are waiting for you.

5. The Bahamas

When you talk about vacationing in the Bahamas, you're biting off a pretty big chunk. This Caribbean archipelago is made up of 29 main islands, 661 cays (low-level sandy islands formed on the surface of coral reefs), and 2000 smaller islands spread out over 100,000 square miles of sparkling blue ocean, starting just 50 miles off the coast of Florida. It has the third largest barrier reef in the world, in what many consider the clearest water on the planet.

The Bahamas is ideal for some springtime fun-in-the-sun, and when you travel there in April and May, you’re not only beating the summer tropical heat but you’re getting in ahead of hurricane season as well. Perfect springtime weather is a great draw to the Bahamas.

You can find great timeshare rentals in the Bahamas to fit just about any budget and any style.

6. Italy.
Italy's sweet spot is April and May, which makes it a must-consider destination during the spring. Italy's weather is best during these months, especially in beautiful Tuscany, and since it's just before the summer peak season, the crowds are much smaller allowing for easy access to the true local experience such as sitting at an outdoor café with a cappuccino.

You also won’t want to miss the FabricaEuropa International Festival in Florence held every May, a celebration of art, music, and photography with both exciting exhibits and fascinating workshops.

There are great Italy timeshare rentals and timeshare exchanges available.

7. Riviera Maya, Mexico

Known as a top destination for Spring Breakers, the trick to enjoying the spring travel values and still avoid the spring break crowds is to go mid-April into May. The beautiful spring weather continues during this time, and the miles of white sand beaches along the shores of crystal clear waters are perfect this time of year.

The Riviera Maya area is just south of “Mexico’s Caribbean Jewel” of Cancun, and includes such popular destinations as Playa del Carmen and Cozumel. Nightlife is a’plenty, but so are quieter pursuits such as sunbathing and snorkeling, and even adventure with tours of the local Mayan ruins.

There are many budget-friendly Greater Cancun timeshare rentals available.

8. France.

Springtime in Paris is so spectacular that it has been immortalized in many a song. During April and May you can enjoy the city with plenty of sun and perfect temperatures as you stroll along the Seine River and take in views of the city from atop the Eifel Tower. Relax a moment in one of the city’s many little parks and inhale the remarkable fragrance of a French spring.

Also remember that the lovely Loire Valley and the ritzy French Riviera are just a quick train ride from Paris, and both are truly stunning during the months of April and May.

Find a great deal on a timeshare rental in France.

If you don't see a timeshare rental or timeshare exchange for the destination and date you want, just put a listing on RedWishes.

Photo Credit (Bahamas): travelols.com
Photo Credit (Tuscany): fodors.com
Photo Credit (Riviera Maya): thevirtualparadise.com
Photo Credit (Paris): parisinthespringtime.tumblr.com

Timeshare Travel #TravelTuesday – Newport

2012-04-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

Newport, Rhode Island. The Breakers, a mansion built by Cornelius Vanderbilt II in 1893 and now a National Historic Landmark, is open for tours. Submitted by Nathan P from Maryland.

Submit your photo to #TravelTuesday! Just send it via email to us at: learnmore (at) redweek (dot) com. Let us know your name, where you are from, and where the photo was taken.

Enjoy Enchanting April and May with a Spring Timeshare Vacation - Part 1

2012-04-23T07:12:00.000-07:00

Spring is its own special time of the year for timeshare vacations around the globe. While summer – and with it the plans for big summer trips - comes up fast on its heels, spring still offers its own unique look at the world.

So now, before it is gone, consider one of these destinations for an enchanting timeshare rental or timeshare exchange springtime vacation. Rueters offers a list of places where spring weather is delightful and the season is in full bloom. Part 1 of our two-part series takes you from one side of the world to the other.

1. China.

China is, of course, a very large country, so the average temperatures during spring will vary, depending on the region. However, for most of the country spring is one of the best times of the year to visit China, and you’ll also find fewer crowds.

There are a number of China timeshare exchanges available. If you stay at a timeshare in the Yunnan region, you’ll want to be sure to visit the Butterfly Tree whose ultra sweet nectar attracts thousands of multi-colored butterflies in the spring.

3. Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is one of the easiest Caribbean islands to get to from the U.S., and, being a U.S. territory, is also one of the easiest for U.S. citizens to visit – no passport is necessary, and it uses U.S currency.

The sizzling heat of a tropical summer will not have hit yet, so you can expect balmy 85-degree days. Spring is the perfect time to hike through one of Puerto Rico’s verdant rainforests, where you might catch a glimpse of Puerto Rico's version of spring flowers - wild orchids.

Check out the many great Puerto Rico timeshare rentals available.

4. Spain

Spring is the perfect time to visit Spain - the beautiful weather just enhances the experience of historic buildings, seaside vistas and vibrant cultural center points. Explore the main part of the country where trees are in full bloom and flowers tumble from window boxes. Or head to the Baleric island of Mallorca in May for the colorful Medieval Festival held at the Castle of Capdepera, built in the 1300s.

You can find many great deals with timeshare rentals inSpain.

9. England

The London 2012 Olympics will be bringing throngs of visitors from around the world later this summer, so April and May are an ideal time to visit England, before the crowds and prices spike. The weather is also best during spring, which is particularly good if you're looking to visit England's world-famous countryside.

Rainfall tends to drop during the spring season in England, giving you a chance to enjoy visiting the world-famous English gardens in all of their spring glory. Take advantage of the many garden tours available.

Spring is also a good time to find a great England timeshare rental or exchange.

As always, if you don't see a timeshare rental or exchange for the dates and destination you want, place a listing on RedWishes.

Photo Credit (China): yunnantourism.com

Photo Credit (Puerto Rico): flickr.com

Photo Credit (Spain): florala.net

Photo Credit (England): mountainvalleygrowers.com

Celebrate Earth Day with a Timeshare Vacation to Disney

2012-04-20T05:33:00.001-07:00

Take a timeshare vacation to Orlando where Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom is hosting a “Party for the Planet” in celebration of Earth Day 2012.

“Guests can find out what they can do to make their backyards wildlife-friendly and discover other ways to conserve wildlife and protect nature, including chimpanzees,” said a Disney spokesperson.

The party is started as guests enter the park, at two table displays in the main entrance area: one featuring wildlife-friendly backyard habitats and the other Disney's new documentary “Chimpanzee.”

Activities in the park include:
1. Asia (Maharajah Jungle Trek)—Families can play a supermarket game and learn how their purchases can make a big difference for wildlife and wild places.
2. Africa (Pangani Forest Exploration Trail)—Children can observe and identify chimpanzee tracks and clues left behind along trails as they move through the forest.
3. Rafiki’s Planet Watch, courtyard—Outside Conservation Station, guests will discover fun ways to spend time in nature with their families and find “Chimpanzee”-related merchandise, as well as face painters and caricature artists.
4. Rafiki’s Planet Watch, inside Conservation Station—Families can visit the Chimpanzee Research Station and participate in a variety of activities based on real conservation work. Guests also can talk with cast members who work on conservation projects around the world and learn about the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund.

On the other side of the country, Earth Day at Disneyland will be celebrated as “Go Outside for Earth Day” at Downtown Disney. Bring your entire family to get outside and enjoy the benefits of nature with the following organizations, from 12 – 5 p.m. on Earth Day, April 22.

Activities will be presented at no cost to encourage the next generation to spend more time outdoors, and its importance to their wellness.
1. USA Volleyball – The pros who train Olympians will demonstrate how the sport is played and pull youngsters into the fun.
2. Next Level Sports – Future athletes can shoot hoops and participate in kickball games.
3. First Tee LA – Budding golfers will get pointers on how to hit the links with a perfect swing.
4. Orange County Coastkeeper and The Coastal Conservation Network will share what it takes to keep our coastline and beaches safe for our wildlife.
5. Sunsafe will be on hand to educate sun-seekers about proper sun protection.
6. ESPN Zone - DJ Wendy will be spinning tunes and hosting conservation trivia for chances to win ESPN Zone game cards.

Make your Earth Day 2012 celebration a budget-friendly one by enjoying accommodations with Orlando timeshare rentals, and timeshare rentals in Anaheim, California.

Photo Credits: disneyparks.disney.go.com

5 Quick and Easy Spanish Learning Tips You Can Do Directly from Your Spanish Timeshare

2012-04-19T06:22:00.004-07:00

The Spanish language is one of the most popular languages in the world today and also one of the easiest to learn. And what better time to do it than during a timeshare vacation in Spain?

If you like to be lazy on your holiday but still want to improve your Spanish language skills read on. I'm going to talk you through five tips which will help you easily improve your spoken Spanish during your stay in your Spanish timeshare.

Use Your Laptop, Smart Phone or Tablet
If you have a laptop, smart phone or iPad, there are many good language learning programs available to help you progress pretty quickly. The best programs encourage you to learn in a way that would be natural for a young child to pick up a language, by showing pictures of objects or people and describing what is going on in Spanish.

Don't Be Shy: Talk to the Locals
Talking to the locals is a good idea but many people are afraid to converse with native speakers for fear they will make a fool of themselves! From my experience it is far less rude to actually try and talk to people in their native tongue than to try and speak English at them and hope they understand.

If you learn a few phrases for common items and commonly used questions while on holiday, most locals will try and understand you, or, at the very worst (and if you get it badly wrong), cause them to smile or laugh.

Be a Couch Potato: Watch TV
Watching TV may not be the top of most people's list of priorities while on holiday, but watching a Spanish language television station will certainly help you learn some words and phrases.

Become a Film Buff
Watching Spanish language movies with subtitles may also help you a little, especially if you're willing to spend some nights in during your stay. With a DVD you can also pause and go back to phrases, too!

Lazing By the Pool with a Podcast
Putting headphones on and listening to a Spanish learning podcast is a great idea. If you have it on quietly you can often fall asleep listening to it, but you will learn at least a few phrases before you do. Studies also show that the human brain is able to learn new languages even whilst asleep!

If you partake in exercise during your stay in your timeshare, it's also a good idea to listen to podcasts whilst you run or use an exercise machine.

Hopefully, by following some of these tips, you will be able to pick up at least a few Spanish words and phrases, as well as learn how to correctly pronounce them during your stay in your timeshare.

So with my advice finally parted there's only one thing left to say: much suerte!

This article was written by Will Peach, editor of Gap Year Travel Magazine GapDaemon.com and the blogger behind the travel blogger interview site TraveLinkSites.com.

Image Credit: learn-spanishonline.com

What’s the Best Way to Support Timeshare Education?

2012-04-18T05:37:00.004-07:00

April's "Ask The Timeshare Crusader" question comes from Savannah:

I've been reading your blog and your forum here on RedWeek.com for some time now and I noticed that one of your favorite topics is timeshare education. I agree that it is something that is needed. Why is there so little and what is a concerned timeshare owner to do?

Lisa Ann Schreier’s Answer:
Thanks for the kind words and great question. Indeed, I firmly believe that 85 percent of the issues and problems that both individual timeshare owners and timeshare resorts face could be overcome with education. There's too little unbiased education out there because the parties involved can't seem to agree on where it should come from.

One thing that you should do in addition to keeping up to date with your reading (both on the RedWeek.com forums and with publications such asTimeSharing Today) is to talk with the resort manager/general manager of your home resort(s) and ask some in-depth questions as to why they aren't providing more information. At the least it can start a conversation; at best, they may actually do something about it.

Some management companies such as Vacation Resorts International do provide education through newsletters and other communications, but I agree that more has to be done.

It's a timely question because it is one of the topics that will be discussed at the Timeshare Board Members Association meeting later this month. I'm going to reference your question during my segment at the meeting as an example of owners asking for more education.

If all goes as I hope it will, there will be more information and education shared through owner newsletters and other forms of communication in the near future.

Share Your Thoughts
Comment below on Lisa Ann’s answer. And join the conversation on our Ask the Timeshare Crusader forum.

Timeshare Travel #TravelTuesday – Waikiki

2012-04-17T08:38:00.001-07:00

Hawaiian sunset taken from Waikiki Beach on Oahu. Submitted by Pat Ness, Seattle, WA.

Submit your photo to #TravelTuesday! Just send it via email to us at: learnmore (at) redweek (dot) com. Let us know your name, where you are from, and where the photo was taken.

Timeshare Travel – 5 Luxury Places to Spend Your Tax Refund

2012-04-16T07:28:00.013-07:00

The average tax refund in 2012 is nearly $3,000 according to the IRS. Here are five vacations spots that sound expensive, but as a savvy timeshare rental vacationer you can have a luxury vacation and still keep it on a budget-friendly basis - with a whole lot more of your tax refund money left over to spend on lots more fun things for your trip.

There are some great timeshare rental deals out there. Check out these five:

1. Thailand. Phuket Island is one of the most beautiful and exotic vacation destinations in the world, and you can get a timeshare rental at Marriott's Phuket Beach Club there for just $99/night.

2. Aruba. One of the hottest spots in the Caribbean, you can stay on Aruba at the La Cabana Beach and Racquet Club in Oranjestad for just $71/night.

3. South Africa. At the Sanbonani resort in Hazyview you can get a timeshare rental for just $86/night - within easy driving distance of some of South Africa's most popular natural attractions, including Kruger National Park, Mac-Mac and other spectacular waterfalls, Blyde River Canyon, and The Sudwala Caves.

4. Costa Rica. Melia Vacation Club Paradisus Playa Conchal is the largest and most opulent hotel in the country, and you can stay at a timeshare rental there for just $125/night.
$125/night.

5. Orlando, FL. Marriott’s Grande Vista has timeshare rentals that start as low as $56/night. This resort is just minutes from area attractions such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld. The hallmark of Marriott's Grande Vista resort is the Faldo Golf Institute.

So take that tax refund and splurge - on a luxury vacation with budget-friendly timeshare rentals!

Welcome to the Ultimate Blog Party! And Budget-Friendly Family Vacations!

2012-04-12T21:11:00.007-07:00

Did you know that when timeshare owners can’t use their weeks, they list them for rent? This gives those looking for budget-friendly vacation accommodations a great deal as most timeshare rentals are up to 50% less than the cost of hotel rooms.

Perfect for families, timeshare rentals are not only budget-friendly, but also offer condo-like space, a kitchen to further save money on the cost of meals, and many of the resort’s amenities.

It’s great to have you here at RedWeek to visit. Please feel free to browse around and see the many articles about family-friendly travel, including resorts, activities, festivals, and fun! You might also be interested in our specific Kid-Friendly section.

So Let's Party! Welcome to the Ultimate Blog Party, hosted by 5 Minutes for Mom! We’re participating by hosting a party on our site, too, with a giveaway for you! Just follow the instructions below to enter to win a FREE 2-year Membership to Redweek.com, a $29.98 value!

Here’s how to enter:
Browse our web site at www.redweek.com to learn about the features of Redweek.com - you can even watch the instructional videos if you like - then leave a comment on our blog below mentioning something you learned about RedWeek.com that you think other mommy bloggers - and daddy bloggers - would like to know.

Want extra entries into the contest? Do one or all of the following!
• Follow us on Twitter and send us an @redweektravel message there telling us your favorite feature RedWeek.com.
• "Like" us on Facebook and post on our wall what your favorite thing about RedWeek.com is.

Make sure we have a way to reach you, by leaving your email in the comment. One winner will be chosen at random by using random.org. The contest ends April 20th at 11:59pm EDT. We will announce the winner Monday, April 23rd.

And don’t forget to head over to the Ultimate Blog Party (#UBP12) on the 5 Minutes for Mom web site for a chance to win another 2-Year RedWeek Membership! You’ll discover many other great blog sites, too. Tell your friends when you find something you like.