Interval International is a vacation exchange company that allows timeshare owners to trade their timeshare accommodations for stays at other affiliated resorts in different destinations around the world. It operates as a membership-based program that provides access to a global network of vacation properties.
Here's how Interval International works:
Timeshare Ownership: To participate in Interval International, you must first own a timeshare at a resort that is affiliated with Interval International. Timeshares are typically vacation properties that are owned by multiple individuals who have the right to use the property for a certain period of time each year.
Interval International Membership: Once you own a timeshare at an affiliated resort, you can become a member of Interval International by paying an annual membership fee. This membership gives you access to Interval International's exchange program and other benefits.
Deposit or Exchange: As a member, you can deposit your timeshare week into Interval International's exchange pool, which makes it available for other members to request. In return, you can request to exchange your deposited week for a stay at another resort within Interval International's network.
Exchange Options: Interval International offers several exchange options, including traditional exchanges where you exchange your deposited week for another week at a different resort, as well as other options such as Getaways (discounted last-minute stays), Extra Vacations (additional stays beyond your deposited week), and more.
Booking and Confirmation: Once you find a resort and accommodation that you want to book, you can submit a request through Interval International's online system or by calling their customer service. If your request is confirmed, you will receive a reservation confirmation for your exchange stay.
Enjoy Your Vacation: Once your exchange is confirmed, you can travel to the new resort and enjoy your vacation. Keep in mind that there may be additional fees associated with the exchange, such as exchange fees, resort fees, and taxes, which vary depending on the resort and destination.
It's important to note that availability for exchanges is subject to demand and the exchange rules of Interval International, as well as the specific rules and policies of the resort where you wish to exchange to. Planning ahead and being flexible with your travel dates and destinations can increase your chances of finding the desired exchange.
More About Interval International
Interval International offers owners the flexibility to bank their week or points and exchange them for vacations at over 3,000 resorts worldwide, making ownership more versatile with endless vacation opportunities. However, some owners may find that planning well in advance is necessary to secure their ideal vacation through Interval's vacation services.
Interval International, founded in 1976, is one of the major timeshare exchange companies, owned by Marriott Vacations Worldwide, which also owns Marriott Vacation Club, Hyatt Residence Club, and Vistana. It provides membership programs for timeshare owners who wish to exchange their weeks or points. In addition to exchanging within Interval's network of resorts, Interval members can also trade their ownership for cruises, airfare, and other travel benefits. However, some owners may feel that the travel options available through Interval do not fully reflect the value of their ownership.
Interval International charges membership fees, starting from $89 for a one-year membership up to $356 for a five-year membership, with savings of $89 compared to paying annually, equivalent to a free year. Interval also offers two upgraded levels of membership - Interval Gold and Interval Platinum, which provide additional perks such as hotel stays, unique experiences, airport lounge access, and discounted deals.
In addition to membership fees, Interval International also charges fees for each transaction within its exchange network, with prices based on the length of the trip. For example, a one-week exchange made online costs $179, while shorter trips have smaller fees.