Timeshare Giant Blog

Marriott St. Kitts Unveils 22 More Luxury Vacation Villas

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 15:59:00 +0000

Marriott St. Kitts Beach Club and Casino at Frigate Bay, one of Marriott's many timeshare vacation ownership resorts has opened its third phase of development, unveiling 22 more luxury vacation villas to the resort property.

The intimate oceanfront tropical island resort has an existing 44 units, and with the completion of its third phase, there are now 66 two- and three-bedroom villas.

The third phase is not the final phase of development at Marriott St. Kitts; there are a a proposed total of 88 timeshare villas for the resort.

The villas range from 1,400 to 2,089 square feet. Appointments include fully-equipped kitchen with GE stainless steel appliances and rich, walnut-finished cabinetry, and granite counter tops. The Master Suites have an over-sized shower; The living and dining areas are large and roomy, and there are Sony flat-panel televisions and DVD players in the living room and bedrooms. There is also internet access and room service.

Resort amenities include whirlpool spas and three swimming pools, including the main oceanfront pool, with access to the the Frigate Bay Beach, located on-site. There is a Kid's Club, Teen Game Room, Fitness Center, and four tennis courts. Guests will find a variety of restaurants, both casual and upscale, along with retail shops, a sundries shop, Emerald Mist Spa, and concierge.

Marriott St. Kitts owners also enjoy discounted greens fees and preferred tee times at the Royal St. Kitts Golf Club.

Marriott, among other big-name innkeepers, are now involved in the development of timeshare resorts worldwide.

Can’t Qualify for a Vacation Home Mortgage? Buy a Timeshare Instead

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:38:00 +0000

The ‘credit crunch’ is leaving many would-be home buyers high and dry. By the thousands, lenders have been turning away borrowers with great credit, rendering them unable to purchase a vacation home.

For those borrowers who don’t like taking ‘no’ for an answer, many would-be home buyers are now taking a look at timeshares as an alternative to purchasing a full-ownership vacation home or condo. The reasoning behind it all lies not only in simple economics, but also in practicality and common sense:

1) Would-be vacation home buyers are purchasing timeshares at a fraction of what it would cost to own an entire vacation home. There is often no mortgage, and monies aren’t tied up in one huge investment. This frees up more capital to diversify investment portfolios.

2) Timeshares allow consumers to custom-fit their ownership. If a family vacations for one week, they purchase one week, yielding one week of residency per year. If a family vacations for two weeks, they buy 2 weeks, etc.

3) Those who own vacation homes often must defray their expenses by making their retreats available to others as a vacation rental. The long-distance worries include vacancies, repairs, damages, and the list goes on. Timeshare Ownership doesn’t involve daily management of the property – when owners are in residency, their only ‘job’ is to relax and enjoy.

4) Annual timeshare maintenance costs are diminutive in comparison to vacation home ownership.

5) Almost all timeshare residences offer more luxury and amenities than that of a vacation home. They are ‘turn-key’, and come completely furnished, right down to the silverware, sheets, linens, and towels.

6) Although almost all timeshares are often located in world-class vacation destinations, timeshare owners can experience other timeshare resorts around the world by way of exchanging their weeks to other destinations. There are all kinds of exchange companies, such as Interval International (I.I.), Resort Condominiums International (R.C.I.).

Have you been turned down for a vacation home loan? Thank your lucky stars and buy a timeshare.

TimeshareGiant.com: A Safe Haven for Timeshare Owners

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 16:52:00 +0000

Any timeshare owner who has expressed interest in selling their timeshare at some point or another, has been exposed to unscrupulous telemarketing practices from companies all over the globe, promising a sale if the owner pays hundreds of dollars (or even thousands) in upfront fees. Many timeshare owners don’t realize how solicitors acquire their contact information in the first place.

Their latest technique is quite ingenious: The solicitors design a website staged as a timeshare resale organization, often (but not always) with only 1 or 2 pages of content, and a convenient contact form for timeshare owners to complete and submit. The main function of these sites is to ‘harvest’ personal information. These information harvesters then sell the public’s personal information over and over again to timeshare solicitors all over the world, whose only purpose is to make contact with timeshare owners and charm them to extract several hundred or even thousands of dollars from them, right over the phone.

Remember: If you’re a timeshare owner, your personal information is a hot commodity! Personal information harvesters make big money selling timeshare owner contact information to companies worldwide. Once the personal information is submitted to the wrong parties, much to timeshare owners dismay, they are barraged with unwelcome phone solicitations from an array companies on a regular basis.

Because the lead harvesting industry has become so lucrative, harvesters have become quite brazen over the years. Many are now surfing the internet, randomly looking for personal information to collect and re-sell.

Timeshare owners who advertise their timeshares for sale or rent on Timeshare Giant do not need to divulge their contact information in their ads. If an interested party wants to inquire on their ad, the inquirer uses the ‘Inquire About This Timeshare’ function, and the inquiry is sent directly to the advertiser via email, in a secure environment.

If a timeshare owner wants to place their timeshare for sale or rent, they deserve to have a safe and legitimate place to do so. Timeshare Giant is that safe haven.

Maui will soon welcome Westin Nanea Ocean Villas Kaanapali

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 14:54:00 +0000

A 26-acre parcel in Kaanapali, Hawaii, will soon welcome 390 more luxury timeshare units, to be developed by Starwood Vacation Ownership. Historically, Starwood has experienced monumental success with their 2 existing developments on Maui; the Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas, and the Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas North. The new resort, Westin Nanea Ocean Villas Kaanapali, will integrate fully with Starwood’s 2 existing resorts, making it one contiguous complex.

The thing I think I love the most in learning about this project is it will be a ‘Green’ building project.

The existing 2 Starwood resorts total 270 units. The eco-friendly 390 units at Westin Nanea Ocean Villas Kaanapali will more than double Starwood’s timeshare presence on the island. Rumor has it that there will be very few 1 bedroom and 3 bedroom units; The project will be comprised primarily of 2 bedroom units, and no ‘lock-offs’.

Although the Maui News states the resort will open in 2010, Starwood’s press release states it will open in 2011.

In 2007, Hawaii statewide approximately 8,000 timeshare residences. These statistics are up 16 percent from 2006, according to a survey conducted by state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Furthermore, the survey revealed that the number of timeshare units in Hawaii has almost doubled since 2000. On Maui alone, there were 2,916 units in 2007, which represents a 32 percent increase from 2006.

The statistics represent yet another indicator that the timeshare industry is alive and well! It’s wonderful to see in spite of a sagging economy and high fuel prices, the demand for timeshare vacationing is still strong. I believe this is due to the public’s desire to make the most of their yearly vacations, with a product that offers an attractive alternative to hotel room vacationing.

Westgate Resorts will stake their claim in timeshare history in Las Vegas

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 15:26:00 +0000

80 East Harmon Avenue in Las Vegas will never be the same again. It will soon reach new heights in the timeshare industry- and in timeshare history. It will be the world’s tallest timeshare development, boasting a whopping 52 stories of luxury timeshare vacationing.

The Resort, Planet Hollywood Towers will be 3.2 million square feet, and will feature around 1,200 luxury timeshare residences, a 35,000 square-foot convention facility, a 16,000 square foot shopping mall, a restaurant, and will be fully integrated with Planet Hollywood Resort and casino. Designed by Morris Architects, the first phase of the $1.2 Billion project is scheduled to debut some time next Summer.

This will certainly be a fun story to watch as development progresses, and as timeshare history is made.

World Peace Begins with Bringing Peace Into My Own World by Taking Time Off

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 04:11:00 +0000

…You may be thinking, why is a Karen posting a blog about World Peace on her timeshare blog? Read on!

I remember back in the early 70’s as a young girl, seeing Volkswagen Buses, which often had a non-conforming ‘hippie’ at the wheel. A “Visualize World Peace” bumper sticker was a common sighting on a VW Bus, and seemed almost a ‘staple’ accessory for a free thinker who owned a car.

Then the age of the “Yuppie” came along in the 80’s, and more luxury cars rolled off the production lines to meet the demands of this new breed of people. The purchases they made seemed to place a high priority in ‘making a statement’ in the world. Some owners of yuppie cars sometimes donned a different version of the 70’s bumper sticker that said “Visualize Whirled Peas”…! I remember laughing at that bumper sticker whenever I’d see it, admiring how clever it was… but perhaps the owners really believed the sentiment of World Peace was a joke.

Now more than ever, people are overly-worked, overly-burdened, overly-stressed, and overly-ill, spinning wildly, due to simply not prioritizing the time and space to simply relax and take time to re-group, on the excuse that ‘time is money’, or the list of responsibilities is never-ending. Rest and Relaxation in our world is pushed in the back of the line, in the name of getting ahead, staying ahead, or simply catching up. Westerners are operating at such a high pace, often an entire year passes by without even the thought of taking time off to restore the body, mind, and spirit.

Instead of spending money on vacationing, some people are instead spending money on medical bills and other therapies due stressful lifestyles. Even doctors are telling patients to take time to relax, encouraging vacation time. Rest and Relaxation is no longer a luxury. It is a matter of survival.

I can personally testify that this has been a part of my life story. I, too, have been overly-stressed for years on end, foregoing valuable timeshare vacation time in the name of getting ahead or staying ahead in my career, only to find that earlier this year, I was sick for almost 2 months. My body crashed. My mind crashed. I just couldn’t keep up any more. I knew at that point that things needed to change, in order for me to re-claim my authentic enthusiasm for life. I find it ironic that I’m in the timeshare business, which is luxury vacations made affordable, and I wasn’t even giving myself the time to experience the wonderful product I’ve chosen to advocate as my career over the past 23 years!

I’m a big advocate of the economic benefits of timeshare, but now more than ever, I also value the spiritual, emotional, and physical benefits of timeshare vacationing. It is now a matter of survival for me to pamper myself with at least one week each year to a very special place to leave my cares behind.

Regardless of the type of setting or amenities that suit your tastes, there are almost 6,000 timeshare resorts on our planet now. Millions of families just like you are already timeshare owners. Timeshare Owners who value the importance of taking time off with their loved ones are staying at rejuvenating, luxurious (and affordable) timeshare resorts right now, as you are reading this sentence.

After working hard all year, leave behind the idea of stuffing the family into hotel rooms. Experience timeshare vacationing and you’ll not just see the economic value of timeshare vacationing; you’ll experience a rejuvenating peace in your life, year after year. It’s more important than ever.

Imagine yourself enjoying time away on an island, such as the island of Kauai at the Kauai Beachboy. Or the sweet scent of pines in the crisp mountain air of Lake Tahoe at Marriott’s Timber Lodge. Perhaps a trip South of the Border to Mexico at the Dreams Los Cabos & Club Casa Dorada Beach and Golf Resort is in your list of desires. Take some time for yourself and your family. Do it in luxury. Make it count. Make it memorable. Make it peaceful.

World Peace: Let it begin with me.

Starwood Unveils Latest Masterpiece, The Phoenician Residences

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 21:25:00 +0000

The timeshare/fractional ownership industry continues to pick up steam, even while other sectors of the economy are struggling. Apparently, people see the value in luxury vacationing more than ever, particularly in the midst of stressful times.

Among the constant parade of new timeshare resorts being unveiled almost on a weekly basis from big-name companies, like Marriott, Wyndham, Westin, and others, is Starwood’s fabulous Phoenician Residences in Scottsdale, Arizona, at the base of Camelback Mountain.

The Phoenician Residences is the newest family member in Starwood’s “The Luxury Collection”, comprised of an elite ensemble of 69 of the globe’s finest hotels and resorts, spanning over 26 countries in top-end vacation destinations.

Among the impressive amenities on the 250-acres site, you’ll find interesting dining experiences, Nine shimmering swimming pools, a USGA championship golf complex, boasting an impressive collection of three distinctive nine-hole courses including driving range, the ‘Tennis Garden’ with 12 lighted tennis courts, with various playing surfaces to customize the perfect tennis game. After an active outing, in the therapeutic desert sun, indulge in the ‘Centre for Well Being’ spa, for a relaxation/meditation experience not soon to be forgotten.

Members can purchase a three-week Club Interest with two fixed weeks during peak seasons, and one floating week during the summer. Prices range from $150,000 - $400,000. As a brand-new vacation ownership opportunity, interests are only available by purchasing directly from Starwood.

Most of us only dream of such an elaborate vacation experience -but do not be discouraged - there are thousands of equally incredible timeshare/vacation ownership opportunities that can be grabbed up on the resale market, and can be purchased at a fraction of the price of developer-direct retail pricing, typically available in 1-week incraments to customize your vacation needs. Browse through Timeshare Giant and see what you come up with!

Take in the wonders of Lake Tahoe in Each Season

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 16:57:00 +0000

Lake Tahoe has become an internationally-known vacation destination over the past 2 decades. With its recognition, the south shore has become the focus of many updates, improvements, and top-end timeshare resort properties to accommodate its stature as a world-class, year-round vacation destination.

During Summer months while lazing your way through a Summer day, relax on pristine alpine beaches, all while also enjoying spectacular snow-capped mountain views, endless watersports, hiking, and wonderful paved bike trails meandering through the sweet-smelling pine forests, Tahoe’s ideal daytime Summer weather conditions average 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Ideal weather conditions make it easy to be outdoors. Stroll around world-class shopping and boutiques in the famous Heavenly Village by day, and enjoy 24-hour casino action, top-name entertainment, and restaurants for every budget year-round.

Winter months offer an equal amount of activities, both indoors and out; Spend your day downhill skiing, boarding, or cross-country skiing at any of Lake Tahoe’s 15 scenic ski resorts. Serene snow-shoeing opportunities abound, across quiet breathtaking meadows. At night, take in dinner, a show, or take your chance at lady luck in the casinos.

Some of the newer timeshare developments to Lake Tahoe, which include Marriott’s Timber Lodge (pictured above), is situated in the heart of the new Heavenly Village. It’s located just steps away from the Nevada Stateline in South Lake Tahoe, California.

The new Heavenly Tram is located in the center of European-inspired Heavenly Village. If you’re in residency at Marriott’s Timber Lodge, the tram is just steps from your luxury Condo.

Marriott really out-did themselves when they developed the Marriott’s Timber Lodge.

There are some wonderful ownership opportunities available now at Marriott’s Timber Lodge on Timeshare Giant. You can explore them by clicking on the title of this post.

Bundle up for Eastern European Travel

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 13:58:00 +0000

The outlook on travel to Eastern Europe has really changed in recent years. Many travelers are finding that this side of Europe has great travel bargains and off-the-beaten-path treasures. Some of you hearty souls that enjoy a cool breeze and don't mind the snow even opt to travel to this part of the world during the winter. Even if you are used to cold weather, it never hurts to be reminded that winter travel is not like summer travel. Your suitcase may be a bit bulkier because you’ll need heavier clothes, but you’ll have a great time seeing the sites if you pack so you can stay warm.

Pile on the layers

Just as in the United States, it may be cold outside, but rather warm inside. If you bring only sweaters and long underwear, you may find yourself melting when you are indoors. Wearing layers of clothing means you can be prepared for all temperatures.

Get boots that are made for walkin'

If you are not from a cold climate in the U.S., you may not have the kind of sturdy boots you need to make it in Eastern Europe. Galoshes or rain boots simply won’t do, You'll need sturdy, waterproof boots that go above the ankle.

The all-important Coat

You'll need a good coat, but you'll also need room in your suitcase for your other things. What do you do? Pack your coat in a sealable bag, of course. When you press all of the air out of the bag and seal it, you’ll find that your coat is not as bulky as it seems to be.

Top it all off with a hat

Yes, you've seen pictures of people in Easter Europe wearing big, furry hats, and soon you will be on of those people. Actually, you don’t have to get a huge hat like that, but you do need a hat that can protect your head and ears. It is likely that the hat you buy will not be the most fashionable, but your ears will thank you for it later.

Eastern Europe is a Winter Wonderland

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 13:53:00 +0000

When I say Eastern Europe-what do you think? If the image in your mind is dreary and filled with snow, then you are only half right. There definitely is snow (a lot of it) in Eastern Europe during the winter, but as for the dreary part, you've got it all wrong!

The prices you can pay to travel to Eastern Europe during the winter months pale in comparison to the prices for the western part of the continent. The winter is not peak travel season, so you can get great rates on everything from your airfare to the trinkets you buy to give to friends back home.

Eastern Europeans do not hide or hibernate during the winter. They have great festivals, wonderful shows, fantastic operas, and beautiful ballet productions all year long. In fact, because it is an area used to the cold climate, there are some festivals and productions that can only be seen during the winter. This is a testament to a region that embraces and celebrates the weather during all seasons. You won’t have to fight to get tickets, either.

Because it has been somewhat isolated, a lot of Eastern Europe's charming architecture, has not been heralded as much as other parts of the world. There are gorgeous cathedrals and stately castles awaiting you there. If you are into photography, you'll jump at the opportunity to photograph some of these great buildings with a backdrop of pristine snow.

Winter is a time to connect with the local people in Eastern Europe, since many other travelers choose to stay away at this time of year. Shopkeepers and restauranteurs are probably less harried during the winter and may be more amenable to conversation since things are quieter.
If you like to vacation, but dread the hustle and bustle of trying to get through jam-packed streets or do not have the patience to wait in long lines to get into a museum, then off-peak winter travel may be for you. And if you want to go somewhere that everyone hasn't already been, check out Eastern Europe.

Timeshare Forecast: Sunny with a Chance of Extra Vacation Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 13:46:00 +0000

Recently Pricewaterhouse Coopers released the results of an annual study they undertake to evaluate the climate in the timeshare industry. A press release that detailed the study characterized the outlook for timeshares as sunny. This is great news as you look at your schedule for the upcoming year. The resorts you already love and the ones you want to try for the first time are ready and waiting to accommodate you.

Timeshare sales based on purchasing weeks at a resort remain strong, while the market for points-based timeshares is growing rapidly as well. The increased flexibility and a wide array of options for upgrades make timeshare travel a very attractive choice. You can get five-star treatment, help with planning activities, discounts on local attractions, and much more. Planning your vacation is a lot easier when you don’t have to do it all yourself.

People are realizing what some of you already know—the opportunity to customize your vacation time is invaluable. More and more people are opting to take short getaways in addition to longer vacations. Also, with today’s hectic pace, everyone cannot take the long leisurely vacation that they would like to take. But it is possible to get away for a long weekend.

People are opting to take more off-peak vacations. We expect to see people vacationing in the summer or during the winter holiday season, but more travelers are seeing the advantages at other times of the year. Vacationers are adding an extra day to their three day weekends, like Columbus Day or Veterans Day. They are also using their timeshare points to vacation on weekends that don't center around holidays, times when fewer people are heading to vacation destinations.

We are seeing more people chose to celebrate special occasions with a short trip. Your anniversary, promotion, birthday and other milestones deserve their due. Why not celebrate with a change of scenery? To assist you in finding the perfect long or short get-a-way, visit our sponsor, Timeshare Giant to search for and even book your next timeshare vacation.

Hidden Costs Boost Travel Prices

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 09:10:00 +0000

Travel suppliers are trying to boost their prices without seeming to. Rising costs coupled with a weak economy has the travel industry scrambling to increase prices while still appealing to cash-strapped travelers. It's a time for "consumer beware." Some of the promotions being offered are misleading at best and downright deceptive at worst.

Here are four things savvy travelers will want to watch for:

Hidden add-ons. Many hotels are posting enticingly low prices to get customers in the door, then adding on exorbitant resort fees, energy surcharges, shuttle fees, and unexpected fees for room features like phones, safes and mini bars, even if you don't use them. Check before you book. What you expect to be free may not be anymore. And watch for extortionary fuel surcharges on airline flights to recoup fuel costs. It's routine in other parts of the world and appealing to cash-strapped U.S. airlines.

Unbundling. Airlines are going a la carte. Expect to pay separate fees for each checked bag, advanced seat assignments, frequent-flier miles, snacks and drinks. Many airlines are already charging $25 to $50 for each checked bag after the first one. I just flew to Hawaii on United which offered "food items for sale" in lieu of a lunch tray. Expect similar behavior from car rental agencies and hotels.

Incidental fees. In an effort to lure you in, airlines, rental-car companies and hotels will continue to advertise affordable base costs. It's the climbing incidental fees that will kill your budget. And don't expect them to be upfront about it. Airlines are already quietly charging more for phone reservations than online ones.

Fine print penalties. Get used to reading the fine print. Travel suppliers have started hiding tough cancellation policies and stiff fees in all that gray type, hoping you won't drag out the reading glasses to decipher it.

Spunky Old Broads Live It Up in Sin City

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 09:10:00 +0000

February is Spunky Old Broads Month (don't you love it?)! So, gals, gather up your bosom buddies and head for Atlantic City on the Jersey shore. There's no place that quite says "Spunky Old Broads" like the casinos on the nation's oldest, most famous and delightfully tacky Boardwalk. Make sure you pack your sequins!

Home to the only beach front casino strip in the country, nearly every casino in Atlantic City boasts a posh hotel just waiting to pamper you and send you home with a smile on your face. Wine, dine, see a show, play the slots or try your luck at the blackjack table amidst the glitz and glam that is distinctly Atlantic City. In summer, America's world-famous, five-mile long, historic Boardwalk (built in 1870) stretches from the exciting Steel Pier amusement park all the way up to peaceful Garden Pier, home of the fabulous Atlantic City Art Center. The chilly days of winter will allow you to dabble unhurriedly through the Center's delightful three-gallery museum. You'll find wonderful folk and fine art by local, regional and nationally-known artists to take home as a reminder of your trip to Sin City.

The Atlantic City area is an artists' mecca. Just 15 minutes away in Oceanville is the Noyes Museum of Art, the only fine arts museum in South Jersey, or Down Jersey as the locals call it. Five galleries and a walkway hold changing exhibits of local art, framed against the serene backdrop of the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. An hour west you can watch art in the making at the Wheaton Arts & Cultural Center in Millville. Make sure you visit the stunning Museum of American Glass and the eclectic Down Jersey Folklife Center. You'll find plenty of artists in residence willing to chat and demonstrate the creative process.

New Jersey's premier spot for gaming, live entertainment and shopping, the Wyndham Sky Tower (shown) is just a block from the Boardwalk and close to everything you want to see and do. Between visits to the galleries or stints at the tables, lounge around the pool, take a cleansing steam or gossip in the hot tub with your friends. Click the link above for full details on the Wyndham Sky Tower or click the post title to preview other Atlantic City timeshares.

Celebrate President's Day in Washington D.C.

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 09:10:00 +0000

What better time to visit Washington D.C. than February when we celebrate the birthdays of two of our nation's greatest leaders: George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Washington is one of those cities with so much to see; you could spend weeks there and never come close to seeing it all. If it's your first visit, you can catch the high points and get an overview or you can delve deep into whatever interests you most and plan to return.

You can spend an entire vacation touring the fabulous galleries of the Smithsonian or visiting the many stunning memorials and specialty museums that crowd the city's center. You can tour the capital, spend some time in the Gallery watching the legal meanderings of our country's representatives at work, and the chow down on a hearty bowl of bean soup in the commissary -- it's a perennial Congressional favorite. You can visit later in the spring and delight in the Cherry Blossom Festival when delicate pink and white petals drift like snowflakes through the air. You can tour myriad government buildings and learn all manner of fascinating facts. (Don't miss the Spy Museum -- so James Bond!)

No matter what your plans, for touring the capital, the Wyndham Old Town Alexandria (shown) is the perfect place to stay. Located in the charming heart of Old Town Alexandria, the Wyndham is just a short jaunt to the Washington transit stop, the smartest way to get around the capital's major attractions. Parking in the city is not for the feint of heart. You'll generally wind up closer to the sights taking the Metro. It can be a long walk from your parking place to the building you plan to visit.

For a rare treat, visit the newly opened Lincoln summer cottage on the grounds of the Armed Forces Retirement Home. Lincoln and his family spent summers in the cottage from 1862 to 1864 to escape the heat and humidity of the National Mall. In Lincoln's day the sprawling property, just 3 miles from the White House, was surrounded by bucolic farms and served as the President's private sanctuary. It was here that President Lincoln paced the floor contemplating the end of slavery while his children played on the grounds. For Lincoln admirers, it's a must see, along with the Lincoln Memorial and Ford's Theater.

"This is one of those places that is hidden in plain sight, and yet it's one of the most significant historic sites," said Richard Moe, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation which just completed the seven-year, $15 million restoration. The site just opened to the public this week on President's Day, February 18.

In audio and video recreations, actors portray the president, first lady Mary Lincoln and their associates to tell the stories of events centered around the cottage. The history of people and events was meticulously pieced together from letters, diaries and newspaper accounts. A multimedia room allows visitors to play the roles of rival cabinet secretaries debating emancipation.

Lost Luggage? How to Make Sure You Get It Back

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 09:10:00 +0000

Lost luggage is every traveler's nightmare. Unless you've been itching for a new wardrobe, it's the worst possible start to your timeshare vacation. Lost luggage complaints skyrocketed in 2006 and 2007, according to the Transportation Security Administration (see our Feb. 13 post). So what should you do if your luggage goes missing to ensure that your bags are returned? Follow these tips:

Take pictures of all your belongings as you pack your bags. Make an inventory and keep it and all receipts for purchased items separate from your bag.

Lock your bag with a TSA-approved lock. You can find approved locks at SafeSkiesLocks.com or TravelSentry.org.

Tag everything. Put your name and contact information inside each bag as well as on the luggage tags. That way if the tag is torn off or damaged, airline personnel will still be able to identify your luggage. I find it easy to stick address labels onto index cards and slip them in my bag. All I have to add is my phone number.

File a claim immediately if your bag goes missing. Don't leave your destination airport without filing a claim. The sooner the airline starts looking, the better the chance you'll be reunited with your luggage. Remember to ask if the airline will deliver your bags to you free.

In addition to your airline claim, file a claim with the TSA as soon as possible. Claim forms can be downloaded from the TSA.gov website.

Dog Sledding Coast to Coast

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 09:10:00 +0000

My friend just ran in the NYC "Iditarod." Of course this being crazy New York, the "sleds" were grocery carts and the "sled dogs" were campily dressed 20 and 30 somethings out for a good time. The day-long trek across the Brooklyn Bridge and into Manhattan featured skits, songs and lots of beer!

I've always wanted to experience the excitement of dog sledding. When I was growing up a neighbor had a sled team and trained in the park across the street on snowy weekends. I would marvel at his gorgeous Huskies, muscles bunching beneath their sleek fur coats, as they crashed silently through the snow to his cries of "Mush! Mush!" It all seemed so exciting and romantic.

You can experience the romance of the Alaskan wilderness in between cross country treks or downhill ski runs on either coast of America. In California's popular Mt. Shasta ski area and Vermont's fabled Green Mountains, adventuresome tourists can experience the excitement of dog sledding. Dogsled Express in Mt. Shasta offers one-hour sled rides through the majestic Mt. Shasta, Mt. Lassen and Castle Crags wilderness area. Green Mountain Dog Sled Adventures, profiled on the Travel Channel, carries you through the breathtaking Green Mountain wilderness, though you may have to wait until late winter to book your tour. Owner Bruce Linton and his team of dogs are currently in Alaska to realize their dream of racing in the famed Iditarod.

A dog sled adventure makes a nice change from charging down the ski slopes. What better way to fully experience the awesome majesty of nature than while being silently whisked through the pure, white snow. In Stowe, Vermont, enjoy a stay at the gracious Trapp Family Lodge (above, left; yes, it's the Sound of Music Trapp family). You'll delight in the Austrian-style guesthouses, spectacular views and live music. Make sure you sample the luscious pastries in the Austrian Tea Room. For a change of pace, on the West Coast, stay in Klamath Falls, Oregon and take a day trip down to Mt. Shasta in far north California. Stay at Eagle's Landing (right) in the heart of Oregon's winter ski country to experience all of winter's delights.

Leave Your Heart in San Francisco

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 09:10:00 +0000

It's Valentine's Day. A time for romance, candlelight, flowers and slow dancing with your honey -- and chocolate. A girl has to keep her priorities straight, after all!

For me, there is no city in America more romantic than San Francisco. Like legendary singer Tony Bennett, I left my heart in San Francisco the first time I visited and have been returning regularly ever since. From the shiny red cable cars that climb it's 48 hilly square miles to the broad expanse of the golden gate bridge that connects it's peninsula to Oakland and the mainland, San Francisco is filled with amazing, funky, unique things to see and do.

Among my favorite sites to see are:

taking a leisurely sunset stroll past the shops and street vendors on the way to a scrumptious meal on Fisherman's Wharf;
twisting crazily down picturesque, flower-banked Lombard Street;
spending quiet moments contemplating the exquisite stained glass windows of Nob Hill's Grace Cathedral;
wandering the tranquil paths of the traditional Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park;
expanding my horizons with a quirky lecture at the innovative Exploratorium, physicist Frank Oppenheimer's amazing interactive museum;
wondering at the gargantuan sculptures that hover above the you at the stunning Museum of Modern Art and, of course;
spending a delightful leisurely afternoon browsing through fabulous shops and galleries;
sampling exotic cuisines from a host of nations . . .

I could go on and on. San Francisco mesmerizes you like some exotic, misty-eyed beauty, then steals your heart away forever. You'll want to stay right in the center of things. I love the elegant urban suites at the Inn at the Opera (above, left). Located right in the famous San Francisco Civic Center, home to six performance houses, the Inn is just steps from wonderful music, exciting theater, charming bistros and unique shops. For other fabulous San Francisco timeshare accommodations, click the post title.

Luggage Theft at Airports on the Rise

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 09:10:00 +0000

You just can't be too careful these days. With luggage theft on the rise at U.S. airports, you could arrive at your timeshare destination with just the clothes on your back. Millions of bags are damaged, delayed, stolen or lost at U.S. airports each year. According to the Department of Transportation, passengers filed 250,000 mishandled baggage claims last November.

Every day in America, the Transportation Security Administration screens 2.5 million checked bags and 50 of those bags go missing or are damaged each day. TSA expects to pay out $1 million in claims this year. The average amount paid on a claim in 2007 was $159.58, not even enough to cover the cost of the new dress you packed. And even worse, half of the claims filed were denied.

"In some cases, if there is no ability to determine responsibility one way or the other, [TSA] settles the claim for 50%," said agency spokeswoman Laren Wolf. One disgruntled passenger, Gladys Hanley of Columbus, Ohio had her claim for missing jewelry denied. "The TSA puts it off on the airlines; the airline puts it off on the TSA," she complained. She was forced to file a claim with her insurance company to recoup her loss.

What most passengers don't realize is that many items they pack in their luggage are not covered by either the airlines or the TSA if they are lost or stolen. "Pretty much the only thing that is going to be covered in bags is going to be cosmetics, toiletries, shoes and clothing," explained Scott Mueller, a former baggage services manager for Midwest Airlines and author of The Empty Carousel: A Consumer's Guide to Checked and Carryon Luggage.

Unfortunately, travelers often don't discover missing contents until sometime after arriving at their destination. Major theft rings have been uncovered at some of our nation's major airports. Unscrupulous security checkers and baggage handlers are often to blame; though some bags are whisked off luggage carousels by waiting thieves before the owners have a chance to notice.

Follow these tips to protect your luggage when you go on your next timeshare vacation:

Pack all valuables -- jewelry, cameras, cell phone, electronics, prescription drugs, eyeglasses, important papers, computers, heirlooms, keys, etc. -- in your carryon and keep it where you can see it (under your seat or in the bin across the aisle where you can observe anyone trying to interfere with it).

Don't advertise your profession on your luggage tag. That "Dr." before your name is one thing thieves look for. Use plain luggage tags. Leave the gold laminated tag that advertises your status as a CEO at home.

Sturdy, used luggage is less likely to attract a thief's attention than flashy, designer bags.

Always check your claim ticket against the ticket on your luggage to make sure you pick up the right bag.

Ethnic Charm Colors Hollywood, Florida

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 17:00:00 +0000

Want to try something a little different when you visit Florida this winter? Hollywood, located about midway between Fort Lauderdale and Miami Beach, is an eclectic mix of old Florida and modern glitz, seemingly the last affordable beach town along Florida's gilded Atlantic shoreline. The stately town clings to its wonderful multi-ethnic heritage. Seventy-five years ago Hollywood's idealistic founder, Joseph Wesley Young, designed a town that would welcome everyone "from the opulent at the top of the industrial and social ladder to the most humble of working people." Hollywood residents still reflect that friendly welcoming ideal.

In Hollywood you'll find seedy neighborhood bars, homespun miniature golf courses and mom and pop motels rubbing shoulders with luxury high-rise condos, fabulous (but not fabulously priced) restaurants, funky shops and one of the Seminole Nation's most expansive hotel/casino complexes. Spend some time in downtown Hollywood which is full of charming ethnic restaurants and cute little funky shops. Don't miss the Make sure you browse the charming bric-a-brac at the Jeweled Castle on Hollywood Blvd. and the wonderful Kids-n-Science toy store on Harrison St.

Sample the waterfront restaurants where you can find everything from pizza and burgers to Mediterranean and French Canadian. One of my favorites is the Hollywood Grill on North Boardwalk. I love the unique Armenian cuisine, about $75 for a very hearty dinner for two. If you want to dine al fresco, Le Tub Saloon on North Ocean Dr. is delightful. Be forewarned, it's cash-only. Try the $11 burger (more with cheese) which was named best burger in the country by GQ magazine a few years ago.

There are several timeshares in Hollywood, but I like the windswept charm of the Neptune Hollywood Beach Club (click the post title to take a virtual tour). It's right on the beach and convenient to all of Hollywood's attractions.

Cost of 'Bucket' Trip Will Eat into Your Nest Egg

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 09:10:00 +0000

Have you seen the Jack Nicholson/Morgan Freeman movie, The Bucket List? Two cancer buddies take "the road trip of a lifetime." In case you've wondered how much it would cost to join the party, Mary Forgione of the Los Angeles Times broke it down. The total cost for two? $105,730! Here's the breakdown:

Private jet for 14 days at $3,880 per day comes to $54,230. But what better way to travel when you have a lot a ground to cover and a limited amount of time?
Sky diving in Perris Valley, California (50 miles east of LA), including equipment and training, $249 a piece. Make sure you take the tandem jump so someone (probably the instructor strapped to your back) remembers to pull the ripcord.
A fast eight laps at the California Speedway in Fontana will set you back $419 each for the Rookie Experience. The feeling you get sitting behind the wheel of a 600 HP speed machine, priceless.
Dinner and a good night's sleep at the swanky Chateau de la Chevre D'or in Eze, France will cost you $1,448 to $1,616 per person, per night.
Tenting on the Serengeti in Tanzania, Africa costs a cool $10,465 per person for a 13-day safari. There's no charge for serenading the locals with your off-key version of The Lion Sleeps Tonight.
Getting up close and personal with the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt for 10 days, including a four-night cruise on the fabled Nile River, will set you back $4,335 per person. Airfare is extra, but what are private jets for?
The chance to gaze into the still waters of the Taj Mahal's reflective pool in Agra, India costs $4,795 per person for a 12-day stay.
A 14-day trek to the Tengboche Monastery in Nepal where on a good day you can see Mt. Everest in the distance, $2,695 per person. Food for the pack animals is extra.
Cruising the Great Wall of China on a motorcycle (an experience available only in Hollywood, real people have to hike) starts at $1,299 for the 9-day China Discovery tour.

Mexico's Golden Beaches Beckon for Spring Break

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 03:00:00 +0000

The warm waters of the blue Pacific, palm trees swaying in the ocean breeze, golden sand beaches that stretch away forever -- Ah! Mexico! If you're looking for somewhere different to go for spring break, try Mazatlan. A gem perched on a peninsula north of Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan's 16 gorgeous miles of golden beach beckon sun-starved northerners.

You'll have a wide choice of accommodations in Mazatlan which boasts 34 timeshare resorts (click the post title to preview all 34). The Marina El Cid Hotel & Yacht Club (above, left) features elegant Mediterranean-styled units and boasts both freshwater and saltwater swimming pools. Or stay at the magnificent Costa de Oro Beach Club (below, right) where you can walk outside your door right onto the beach.

Unlike many of Mexico's resort areas, Mazatlan was a Nahuati tribe settlement before the Spanish established a port there in 1531. The beautiful old city predates the days of tourism by centuries. The city is undergoing a renaissance, restoring the old colorful buildings to their former lustre. The narrow streets and wrought iron railed balconies will remind you of New Orleans' French Quarter.

You'll find sophisticated art and decor, intricate handmade jewelry and eerie leather tribal masks in the town's charming shops. Make sure you visit the architecturally exquisite 130-year old theater, now home to a resident dance company and a school of contemporary dance. You'll find wonderful bargains and a few offerings Americans will find bizzarre (pig's heads?) in El Mercado, the large open-air market. For tourist trinkets -- shell necklaces, striped blankets, braided friendship bracelets -- shop the mercado before you try the shops. Prices generally run 50% cheaper at the mercado.

Vegas Prices Going Through the Roof

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 09:10:00 +0000

If you're planning a trip to Las Vegas, better take lots of cash; prices are going through the roof. the one-armed bandits aren't the only stick-up artists in Vegas. Hotel rates at the big names like the Bellagio and Wynn are running an astronomical $400 to $800 a night for 5-star service. Of course you can find more moderately priced rooms. A room at the 4-star MGM Grand or New York New York will only set you back $100 to $150 a night, a bargain compared to comparable lodgings in other major cities. You'll find even cheaper rates the farther you go off the strip, but the strip is the place to be if you want to have the full Vegas experience. Of course, if you book a Las Vegas timeshare, like Marriott's fabulous Grand Chateau (above, left) you get 5-star luxury for the price of the cheap seats.

Here's a roundup of other cash-grabbers (and a few great bargains) you'll find next time you go to play the slots:

Transportation. Forget the discounted shuttle buses at the airport and take a cab. The shuttles are chaotic and run on a sporadic schedule. Why start your vacation in a frustrated snit? Around the Strip, the monorail is fun but access is poor and it only serves a limited area. Save your $5 and buy an all-day pass ($5) on the double-decker busline that shuttles up and down the Strip from Freemont Street. You'll never have to wait more than 7 or 8 minutes during the day. At night, buses run every 17 minutes, still not bad. It's the fastest, smartest way to go casino and attraction hopping.
Shows. If you're dead set on seeing a certain show, blow the budget and purchase your tickets online well before you leave. Otherwise, see the shows that give you the best deal after you get there. You'll find the best deals at the "half-price" ticket outlets that dot the Strip.
Restaurants. Be prepared to blow a bundle if you eat at any of the big Strip resort restaurants. Entrees start at $20 to $40 a la carte. Add in an appetizer and dessert ($8 to $20 each) and an $80 bottle of wine (that's from the low end of the wine list), and you're talking $250 to $300 for dinner for two. Fortunately you can find less expensive options at restaurants along the Strip and on side streets. Aren't you glad your timeshare has a kitchen? If you eat breakfast and lunch at home, you can rationalize blowing big bucks at a fancy dinner at the Bellagio.

They say what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas --that applies to your money too!

Odds and Ends: Interesting Travel Tidbits

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 11:32:00 +0000

I've come across some interesting bits of information here and there I'd like to share with you, so today Timeshare Giant debuts an occasional feature we'll call Odds and Ends. You're sure to find some tidbit that will make your next timeshare vacation more enjoyable.

Getting around Chicago just got a little easier. Chicago has published a free guide for visitors with disabilities. Easy Access Chicago offers basic info on getting around popular city attractions such as Millennium Park, Navy Pier, Wrigley Field and the Sears Tower. Order by calling 1-800-226-6632 or online at http://www.enjoyillinois.com/. You can also download the complete guide from http://www.easyaccesschicago.org/.

One-stop shopping for travelers is the concept behind Flight 001 (pronounced Flight One). Designed to resemble the curved interior of an airline cabin, the unique stores are packed with everything the harried traveler needs: travel guides, beach towels, sleep masks, neck rests, ear plugs and travel-sized containers of almost anything you've ever put in a suitcase. You'll also find chic, colorful luggage, passport holders and luggage tags. Look for the stores in Berkeley, California; Chicago; Los Angeles; San Francisco; two in Brooklyn, NY; and Dubai.

Hotel prices are headed up again; aren't you glad you own a timeshare? Hotel rates rose 7.5% in 2006 and an additional 5.7% in 2007. The price of a hotel room is expected to increase even more -- 5.6% -- in 2008! Repeat after me: "I love my timeshare!"

Sleep tight on your flight. Some airlines are offering a new perk for first-class and business-class travelers: seats that turn into a comfy bed. The flat-bed seats recline to a completely flat 180 degrees, unlike lie-flat seats which still maintain a slight angled incline when fully lowered. British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Air Canada and Cathay Pacific are among the first to offer the new luxury option. Among cash-strapped U.S. airlines, United started offering flat-bed seats in international business cabins at the end of 2007 and Delta plans to follow suit this year.

New Orleans Is for Lovers

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 09:10:00 +0000

Mardi Gras is in full swing right now, the streets full of costumed revelers counting down the days to the start of Lent on Wednesday. By sometime Tuesday night (or possibly the wee hours of Wednesday morning), the last float will cruise down Bourbon Street, the last circle of beads will be thrown, and the last tired dancer will go home to bed. Slowly, over the next few days, New Orleans will lose its brief annual mask of depravity and resume its everyday face of genteel Southern charm.

Virginia may boast that it's for lovers, but I don't think there's any place more romantic than New Orleans. Graceful southern mansions and thick-trunked trees dripping with wispy tendrils of Spanish moss form the perfect background for romance. Sample savory Cajun delicacies on a moonlit riverboat cruise and slow dance with your sweetheart under a starry sky. Step back in time as you cuddle close on a carriage ride around the city's charming historic French Quarter. And, of course, there is the lure of Bourbon Street's soft smooth jazz and lush oyster bars. New Orleans is the perfect place to spend Valentine's Day with someone you love.

On the edge of the French Quarter and just two blocks away from New Orleans' scenic riverfront sits the charming Club La Pension timeshare resort. Its old world charm, intimate setting, friendly southern hospitality and luxurious accommodations invite romance. At Club La Pension, you're close to all of the exciting activities New Orleans has to offer. You can walk to delightful shops and restaurants in the French Quarter or catch a streetcar on the historic St. Charles Avenue line to explore sights further afield. La Pension's full-time concierge is an expert on New Orleans' exciting sights, sounds and flavors and can help you arrange restaurant reservations, city tours, show tickets, private transportation -- whatever you need to make your stay in the Crescent City perfect.

The award-winning resort is imbued with New Orleans' history. Six historic buildings have been completely remodeled with every luxury while being restored to their enchanting historic elegance. Antique-style French Provincial furniture adds just the right note of Old World elegance to the spacious richly appointed luxury suites. History surrounds you at La Pension. On the resort you'll find Canal Street's oldest existing building and an early post office. You can glimpse former slave quarters from the private dining room of La Pension's onsite five-star Italian restaurant, Cafe Giovanni, where Chef Duke prepares some of the most succulent delicacies in the city.

Click the post title to preview other fabulous New Orleans timeshares available on Timeshare Giant.

Ski the Beautiful Poconos

noreply@blogger.com (Karen Phelan) — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 20:37:00 +0000

You don't have to travel to the Rockies for great skiing. The mountains of the Northeast -- Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and Connecticut -- offer downhill runs every bit as exciting as those in Vail and Tahoe. Surprisingly, you'll find some excellent downhill and cross country skiing as far south as Pennsylvania and New Jersey, less than a day's drive from many Midwest and Eastern Seaboard states.

The Poconos are a true year-round vacation destination. From your Poconos timeshare, you can enjoy hiking, biking and boating in the summer. The views are breathtaking in the fall when the mountains erupt in a never-ending riot of color. And winter brings deep, powdery snows perfect for downhill and cross country skiing. You can enjoy everything the Poconos have to offer from your timeshare at Ridge Top Village or Ridge Top Summit in Shawnee, Pennsylvania (see photos).

Nestled in the forested hills along the scenic Delaware River, this 2,200-acre resort features exciting downhill runs, exhilarating cross country treks, even a ski school for those who need to learn the ropes or want to improve their form. The onsite recreation center includes a fully equipped exercise room, sauna, Jacuzzi and indoor pool to keep your muscles limbered up when you're not on the slopes. Snow tubing, ice skating, daily scheduled activities and a children's play area provide fun for the whole family.

Click the post title to preview other Poconos resorts. You'll find more Pennsylvania and New Jersey ski resorts at Timeshare Giant.