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ATHOC REPORT
Unpacking common misconceptions about
the timeshare industry Following on from our last issue, the Australian Time Share Holiday Owners Council unpacks more common misconceptions about timeshare…
upkeep of your timeshare. But unlike your home, a timeshare provides a way to spread these costs among the other owners. With most timeshare organisations your maintenance fee provides refurbished furniture, appliances and general maintenance on your property.
Myth: Timeshare is an expensive way to holiday Reality: Over time, if you own a timeshare, you’ll spend less than you would if you took individual holidays. According to the American Resort Development Association and the US Travel Association, if your average annual holiday in a 3 or 4-star hotel costs US$3000 each year then your savings over 20 years would be more than US$25,000 if you purchase a timeshare. And the accommodation and facilities at the timeshare are likely to be of a higher standard as the properties are well looked after by people who stay in them who have a sense of ownership. In addition, it is easy to travel on a budget with timeshare. Some hints and tips include spending time on your holidays
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AccomNews - Winter 2020
Laura Younger General Manager, Australian Timeshare Holiday Ownership Council
at the resort taking advantage of the free activities right at your fingertips. Pass on the checked baggage - no need to bring endless clothing when your timeshare comes with a washer and a dryer. Skip eating out at expensive restaurants and cook in your own kitchen instead. Myth: Maintenance fees are a rip-off Reality: Maintenance fees keep your resort beautiful so you can enjoy a fabulous holiday! Just like any property, there are costs associated with the
In addition, you can enjoy beautiful grounds, maintained facilities such as the swimming pool and gym. While on holiday, you can also enjoy service from a great team of staff and fun activities. These high standards ultimately make for a great holiday. Myth: Timeshare owners are mostly older. Reality: Timeshare works for all kinds of travellers of all ages; young, old, solos, and families. 180,000 Australian families, in fact, enjoy timeshare, which can be a really good way to holiday as the accommodation offers space and privacy. Having multiple bedrooms gives mum and dad a chance to connect without being crammed into one hotel room with the kids.
INDUSTRY
With timeshare you have added comforts such as a wellequipped kitchen for the nights you want to stay in and relax. Bringing your own food and drink will also save you money and give you more spending money for other activities. And there are lots of free activities to enjoy at the resort too! Whether young or old, for travellers who want to go further afield, when we can safely do so again, there is a whole world to enjoy with timeshare by maximising your exchange options. Timeshare no longer must be about returning to the same resort year upon year. Most timeshare models involve owners buying points, which act as holiday currency. Every time the owner wants to go on holiday, they choose the location, accommodation and duration and pay from their allocation of points. This means you can explore somewhere new every year safe in the knowledge you can enjoy the high standards you come to expect from all timeshare accommodation. www.accomnews.com.au
