Saving On Future Vacations With Hilton Grand Vacations

A Career-Driven Life With Little Time To Travel

The year was 2002, and I was in my early fifties, fast-forwarding through my career as a professional. I had studied hard, worked hard and strived for excellence in everything I did to get where I was. At that point, there was little time for relaxation, enjoyment or the pursuit of happiness.

Don’t get me wrong — I was happy with my achievements. I was pleased with my career and athletic ability, having completed three marathons while working to stay healthy and fit. I also managed to become my own personal chef and used my Italian background to prepare meals and eat only organic and Mediterranean dishes well before it became vogue.

In addition, I was well along in my avocation, which was to raise and show champion basset hounds — an interest that is the love of my life. However, something other than achievement was missing. I knew this but could not put my finger on how I could find a moment in an often 90-hour workweek, plus a 20-hour-per-week running habit, and all the time it took to raise and show my dogs. I also knew that something had to eventually slow me down long enough to “stop and smell the roses.”

Deciding To Make Vacations A Priority

The answer came at a most interesting moment. My parents, then in their early eighties, were still active and wanted to vacation. I decided to plan a family trip to Las Vegas. I booked rooms for myself, my brother and my parents at the Flamingo.

I don’t recall where Hilton Grand Vacations was in its development at the time, but they had a presence at the Flamingo hotel. It was there that I was first introduced to the idea of joining Hilton Grand Vacations.

I was skeptical that purchasing Points for repeated vacations could be advantageous for me. So, I promptly called my advisors — my accountant and my attorney, who knew me and my intense motivation to put work over play — for their advice. Both advised me to purchase a timeshare because it might force me to prioritize something over work. So, my journey began at that moment and has continued since.

I could not explain the steps along the way to you with any accuracy, but whenever possible, I have added to my membership in many ways. Sometimes it has made sense to make a new purchase in a different locale. At other times, it has made sense to upgrade to an alternative at the same locale. And then there are times when I have such an enjoyable experience that it makes sense to own in that particular location, too.

Using Membership Benefits To Build A Second Retirement

Here’s how I’ve built what I consider a “second retirement.”

Not only has the investment given me travel experiences all over the world every year, but these travel options come back year after year when my annual Points are allotted. Had I placed those dollars in a traditional retirement account for travel, money spent would be money gone.

You may ask, “What about the initial cost of membership and maintenance fees?” Well, you can’t hide from them, but in my analysis, year after year, the benefits outweigh the costs. I consider it a small tax for the privilege of a recurring experience.

Additionally, I have never forfeited a point. Gifting to friends and family, point saving, and converting points to Hilton Honors Points, which never expire, are all easily used options.

My Vacation Membership Advice

So, what do I advise to those of you just considering a vacation membership with Hilton Grand Vacations?

1. Start young and small.

2. Add when it makes sense to invest in your vacationing future.

3. Add locations you might really enjoy, especially when Points are being offered at an excellent value and maintenance fees are lower.

4. Never miss an opportunity to gain more experience in the best use of your Points.

5. Ask questions and consider educating yourself on Hilton Grand Vacations every time you attend a review or sales presentation.

6. Don’t be afraid to say no if it does not work for you now, because there will be another moment.

7. Don’t hesitate when the option looks good, because things tend to get increasingly expensive over time.

8. Clearly understand that the greatest benefit will come with the highest level of ownership, and this will be achieved at your retirement age, when you can best make use of extended travel options.

9. Share with family and friends, as many Hilton Grand Vacations locations offer spacious units where great family memories can be created.

Key Takeaways

• Prioritizing Travel: Making vacations a priority can help create balance in a busy, achievement-focused lifestyle.

• Starting Small Creates Flexibility: Modest ownership allows Members to learn and expand as their travel needs grow.

• Maximizing Points: Understanding how to use and manage points, including saving, gifting and converting, helps ensure no value is lost.

• Membership Supports Long-Term Value: A vacation ownership approach can provide recurring travel opportunities year after year.

• Sharing Travel Enhances Memories: Traveling with family and friends enhances the value of membership through shared experiences and larger accommodations.

FAQs

Q: Why should I prioritize vacations if I have a demanding career?
A: Prioritizing vacations helps create balance, reduce burnout, and provide meaningful experiences outside of work.

Q: Is it better to start small with vacation ownership?
A: Yes, starting small allows you to learn the system and expand your ownership over time as your travel preferences evolve.

Q: How can I make the most of my vacation points?
A: You can maximize points by planning ahead, saving unused points, gifting them to others, or converting them to Hilton Honors Points.

Q: What are the long-term benefits of vacation ownership?
A: Vacation ownership can provide consistent travel opportunities, predictable planning, and lasting value through recurring experiences.