One of the more popular ways to access a resort these days is through owning a timeshare at one. But there are many factors to consider. If you decide to get brave and go to a presentation, be sure to go with an open mind. But also be careful.
Often, the first exposure we receive to timeshare ownership comes from filling out a coupon to win a vehicle or receive a cheap or free vacation in the sun or at a ski resort. For some this happens at fairs, in restaurants or at car dealerships. For others first contact is through a (not-so-well-timed) phone call interrupting dinner and offering a free or inexpensive short hotel stay in exchange for a couple of hours of your time. Occasionally, some well-meaning or profit-motivated relative, friend or associate will give out your co-ordinates. On vacation in Mexico, it is not unusual to be stopped in the street of a coastal vacation city and offered a free day of island hopping on board a boat, with stops for horseback riding, meals and a “happy hour” in exchange for foregoing some time in the sun for a presentation.
As long as you understand that accepting these offers can be the prelude to several hours (they...