Last summer, the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) released the results of its latest report on the state of the U.S. vacation ownership industry. The news wasn't surprising. For the 10th straight year, the purchase of vacation ownership interests grew - increasing another three percent to $10.5 billion. That's larger than the country's $8 billion music industry and $9 billion Major League Baseball franchise! The popularity of vacation ownership has been increasing steadily for a while now. During the past five years alone, sales have increased more than 22 percent. You might wonder why vacation ownership is so popular, and why a whopping 9.6 million families have chosen it as their preferred way to vacation. Here are a few of the reasons, along with some insights from Exploria Resorts owners and guests. Vacation ownership can become a true lifestyle. Some people choose ownership because they want to take vacations more regularly, and being an owner means having “prepaid” vacations each year that you don't want to miss out on. Many owners find that this is a good way to ensure they take time away from work and spend it with family and friends. Exploria Resorts alone boasts resort properties ranging from right on the ocean, nestled in the mountains, and within minutes to Disney World in the heart of Orlando's top family destinations. And once you get started, vacationing can become a lifestyle that plays an important role in your family's future. We see this a lot at Exploria Resorts. One Exploria owner describes it like this: “We love Summer Bay Orlando. We've stayed in seven Orlando timeshare condos and Summer Bay is our favorite. We initially bought in 2010 and have expanded and upgraded three times since.” Amenities abound at vacation ownership resorts. Ownership is also a great way to save money on vacations in the long run. It's less expensive than staying at a hotel or rental home, and a much better experience! The list of amenities included at our vacation ownership resorts throughout the United States is impressive. Imagine having access to features ranging from swimming pools, hot tubs, an exercise room, playground, game room, tennis and basketball courts, business room, concierge, and movie theatre to live entertainment, a health spa, miniature golf, and even a waterpark. And the experience of staying in a vacation condo vs. a hotel room is also a big attraction. First, there's lots of room to spread out. In fact, according to ARDA's report, the average three-bedroom unit is 1,720 square feet. You can prepare meals in a fully equipped kitchen and not have to eat out all the time. There's always a dining and living room area, and separate bedrooms are huge plus. These reviews by Exploria owners and guests will give you an idea of what to expect at a quality vacation ownership resort like Summer Bay Orlando. This guest especially liked the access to on-site amenities: “Minutes away from the entertainment parks - but everything you need is on-site as well: multiple pools, BBQ areas, free movies, games for kids, sports activities, all within a guarded gate community. Grocery store just a short walk next to property on side road. Must stay if you have kids and not planning to spend your full vacation at the parks.” This reviewer agreed: “Wonderful property! Lots of pools, green space, and manicured gardens. The fitness and rec center were amazing. Restaurants were great, good variety. Live music/entertainment every night. Fun for all. It was a wonderful time to relax.” Vacation ownership promotes relaxation and good health. ARDA regularly publishes articles on research that has a bearing on the benefits of regular vacations. In its June 2019 issue of Developments magazine, ARDA featured a number of studies that show vacations have measurable health benefits and are a good way to relieve stress. According to the article, “Timeshare owners are great at planning their vacations since they know they have a prepaid vacation to take each year. In fact, the most recent ARDA International Foundation study on timeshare owners found that they take three or more vacations a year.” The message, they said, is clear. “Timeshare encourages regular vacationing, and vacations are good for your health.” So, if you were looking for another good reason to explore vacation ownership, just remember that vacations are good for you. Our owners say it best. After staying at our Pocono Mountain Villas resort in Pennsylvania, this owner shared: “Excellent experience. Nice and quiet. Needed to get away from the hustle and bustle of the work week in the city and needed some relaxation. Great scenery with golf courses scattered about the compound. … Overall, I had a great time and I'm looking forward to the next opportunity to enjoy the peace and quiet.” This review of our Grand Seas resort in Daytona Beach describes the benefits of decompressing at the beach perfectly: “I thought the resort was beautiful! … We were able to walk to the pier and enjoy the shops and restaurants, a little busier side of Daytona, then leave to come back to our quieter side, which was perfect for us. The full-length wall of windows in the unit provided us an amazing view!” Book your vacation today! Ready to book your relaxing, stress-reducing dream vacation? We're ready to help you make vacationing a lifestyle! Treating your family to memorable vacations each year is within reach. Book a guided resort tour today. Arrange your visit here!