Westgate Resorts Launches Loyalty Program: World of Westgate

The resort operator announced the launch of the World of Westgate, offering discounts on direct bookings, reduced resort fees and other benefits.

Program is Free to Join, But Elite Tiers Limited to Timeshare Owners

The new program is targeted to those who are interested in visiting Westgate’s resort properties, with the intention of converting them into timeshare owners. Westgate currently operates 23 properties in key destination cities, including Las Vegas, Myrtle Beach, New York and Orlando.

Anyone who doesn’t own a timeshare with Westgate join at the member level. The lowest level offers free in-room Wi-Fi internet, fitness center access, the use of an on-site VIP concierge and 25% off Westgate Resorts water park admission. Members can also access a 10% discount when booking rooms direct with Westgate, as well as up to 50% off resort and destination fees.

The four elite tiers are limited to Westgate timeshare owners, based solely on the cost of the developer purchased timeshare interest. Owners of interests costing up to $19,999 are enrolled in the Silver tier, while those with interests up to $39,999 are Gold members. Platinum members own up to $89,999 in developer purchased timeshare interests, while Elite members are limited to those owning $90,000 or more in interests.

As with all loyalty programs, the best benefits are reserved for those who spend the most. Elite members can get access to early check-in and late check-out, $200 in annual on-property resort credits, complimentary pool cabana rentals and a 25% discount on food and beverage purchases. In Las Vegas, tiered members also get access to The Westgate Club lounge and discounts on show tickets.

Are Timeshares a Good Deal for Travelers?

Although timeshare properties offer an opportunity for travelers to have a dedicated space in a city they visit often, it’s not necessarily the right financial move for everyone. On the forums, FlyerTalkers note that the ultimate cost effectiveness is based on several aspects.

“If you can get something in decent shape, physically and financially at a location where you will visit regularly for sure, then it might make sense,” writes FlyerTalker tentseller. “There had been cases of owners wanting and needing to get out that the buyer is paid to take over the financial commitment as long term legal/credit cost of walking away might be an issue.”

“I would NEVER buy, or suggest anyone buy, a [timeshare] from the developer,” writes FlyerTalker boucharde. “Many resales are available at a mere fraction of original cost. If you like the resort and the maintenance fee is reasonable for a week’s stay there, then it might be a reasonable purchase on the resale market – which would be a major discount from the developer price.”

Feature image courtesy: Jeff Hitchcock/Flickr/CC-BY-2.0