Timeshares - Your Accomodations

Hotels Versus Timeshares Or House Rentals – The Ups And Downs

Whether it's the annual vacation or the first in many years, one of the decisions is where to stay. Hotels, timeshares and house rentals all have some positive points. Take time to consider some of the more common issues before you offer up your credit card to reserve a place to stay.

One of the biggest advantages of staying in hotels is that someone else is going to be cleaning up after you. You'll have the opportunity to take in the sights, party all night, spend all your time in the water or just laze around if you choose to stay in hotels during your vacation. The daily cleaning of the room, cooking the meals and even laundry service will be someone else's responsibilities.

On the other hand, hotels typically offer a little less freedom in some situations. For example, instead of getting up at midnight for an impromptu omelet, you're going to be stuck with whatever's in your room or whatever you can conjure up from room service - if room service delivers at that hour.

Another important point to keep in mind is the cost of those services. If you're staying in hotels and eating al your meals in restaurants, the bills can mount up quickly. Laundry service may also be very expensive. If you choose to stay in a time share or rent a house instead, you'll likely have kitchen privileges and access to a washer and dryer. You'll spend some of your precious vacation time doing laundry, cooking and even cleaning up after meals, but the difference in the cost of laying in a supply of groceries and a bottle of laundry detergent may make up for the work you're going to do. That becomes an issue only you can decide.

Hotels may also offer some very interesting activities during your stay. For example, you'll find that some hotels have volley ball courts set up and that they encourage guests to gather up for volleyball and other organized activities. There may be scuba lessons offered by the seaside hotels or scouting expeditions at hotels along the desert. If you're traveling alone, this could be a fun way to get involved and it could produce great family outings if you're on a family vacation.

Hotels may also offer shuttle service to and from specific events - a real plus if you've flown in or you're staying in a busy town where parking is an issue.