Is the Marriott Timeshare or Marriott Vacation Club a Real Bargain?

The Marriott Timeshare is just that...a timeshare. In just about all the best marketing pieces that are put out by Marriott you will mostly likely see it referred to as the Marriott Vacation Club...not the Marriott Timeshare.

You can blame it on that dirty little "t" word that has a terrible stigma in the travel industry...timeshare.

So, what can you really expect from Marriott Timeshare? Here's a quick low-down:

Marriott has over 5,000 locations worldwide, which range from studios to 3-bedroom villas. They have four vacation collections you can choose from. You also has access to other types of accommodations within Marriott.

I'm sure you're thinking this sounds nice and all, "But what is it going go cost me?" Let's explain that further on...

You become an owner by a one-time purchase of a deeded real-estate interest. When you purchase a real estate interest you are given vacation club points. The point level at which you purchase points will determine your purchase price. The "entry level" packages begin at approximately $15,000.00

And of course if you want the better vacation options, the more points you will have to buy. This is typical as how timeshares work. In a rough economy, you really have to ask yourself, "Is this BIG financial obligation worth getting my family into at this time?"

If you're like most people, then the answer's probably "no." And now you're off searching for more reasonable travel vacation options.

Did you know you have other options?

If timeshares are the "red headed" stepchildren of the travel industry, then how do so many working class and middle-class families afford luxury vacations?

The answer is very simple...luxury travel clubs.

Make no mistake about it...these are not timeshares masquerading as travel clubs (i.e. Marriott Vacation Club, Disney Vacation Resorts). These are truly travel clubs that you pay a fee (usually one-time), to belong to. You don't have to worry about financing because the costs are within reach of the average vacation family.

You also don't have to worry about going to a high-pressure sales pitch meeting because the most desirable travel clubs don't have to be sold that way. These travel membership clubs literally sell themselves because they offer so much value without you giving up huge amounts of money.

Ok, so you're probably thinking...what's the catch?

Picking out a good luxury travel club that fits within your budget...and the way you like to travel.

Let's break it down to simply this...

You can cross off any travel club on your list that is a timeshare in disguise.

You also cross off your list any travel club that wants to sell you coupons, certificates, and vouchers that you have to activate with fees.

This is not a travel club that's going to give you any true benefit long-term, if at all.

What you are left with are two types of travel clubs...

1. luxury travel clubs

2. Luxurious opulent travel clubs aka non-equity destination clubs

Luxury travel clubs offer resorts, (usually 3,4, and 5 star rated) along with other types of accommodations. One of the better known is G.R.N.

The more opulent type of travel club is commonly referred to as destination clubs. These are typically located in the upper echelons of society in fine "neighborhoods." These types of accommodations are typically priced in the $2 million plus range.

Although you're not buying equity in these types of clubs, you are buying membership into a travel club that features properties in this price range. Just to show you that destination clubs are for the few and not for the many.

If you enjoy staying in these top residences and you like the idea of having access to a full concierge services and this is the kind of living and traveling you're accustomed to, (and you have the means to buy membership to this type of club), then this may be a right fit for you and your family.

If you're like most people, who find that the level of luxury, options, and ease of booking vacations with a regular travel club just fine, then you may want to consider a luxury travel club like G.R.N.

Remember...

Any good travel club is a club that has built a long relationship with resorts, hotels, and other types of accommodations. This is why travel clubs can exist and offer tremendous discounts to nice resorts. Building a good relationship and reputation does not happen overnight.

Be very cautious of the new travel club on the Internet (or in town) that's big on promises. They usually fail to deliver on those promises. These rackets are usually fly-by-night operations that usually leave frustrated travelers in its wake.

Whether you choose a Marriott Timeshare or a luxury travel club like G.R.N., take the time to make an informed buying decision that will benefit your family without putting on an extra financial strain.

Good luck...and happy traveling!