Interval International Questions About This Page:

[soozaay]

Has anyone ever used the Interval International program? We were considering using it for a week long stay in St. Maarten. The program seems great, but I'd like to hear if it's worth it to use your points or just pay out of pocket to stay at another resort. Is it worth it? And how exactly does it all work?

Thanks!

[spiceypj]

get a cheaper timeshare to exchange with.

DVC is to expensive (my opinion) for exchanges.

you can get a nice timeshare (not a great one) for $2,000 to $5,000 - use it for exchanges.

[tjkraz]

The value of an Interval exchange is usually pretty good. It's not like using points for a non-DVC resort like the Poly or Grand Floridian. In those cases you pay 3-4 times as many points as you would for a comparable room at a DVC resort. But to trade into Interval, you'll pay about the same as you would using points at a DVC.

That said, here are a few things to consider:

- Start looking very, very early. Don't expect to get a great resort at a great destination for a peak travel period just 3-4 months out.

- Make sure you research all of the resorts in the area you want to visit and decide which you are willing to accept. Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that all Interval resorts are NOT the same level of quality as DVCs.

- If you read that a particular resort is in the midst of renovations, assume that you will get a room that has NOT been renovated. Many resorts will openly cater to their members first and foremost.

Good luck!

[spiceypj]

also if you go with II - be sure and get insurance.

too many times heard people had to cancel, then rescheduled and had to cancel again. you have 2 years to use your points with II. then they are gone.

family sickness, job problems, house problems - happens.

so if you are going outside of DVC - then make sure you have insurance. especially because with II you need to do it long before your trip.