holiday

A Brief Introduction to the Disney Vacation Club

February 19, 2021 by John Telford

With 20.96 million visitors in 2019, Disney World topped the list as the most visited theme park anywhere. If you were one of those visitors or you head to Disney properties regularly, you’ve likely heard of the Disney Vacation Club.

Is the Disney Vacation Club worth it? If you’re a Disney lover and plan to visit that famous mouse frequently for the foreseeable future, the Disney Vacation Club could be a good investment for you. Reading Disney Vacation Club reviews and fully understanding how the process works helps you determine if it’s the ideal vacation option for you.

Check out the basics of DVC below.

What Is the Disney Vacation Club?

DVC is similar to a timeshare with a little Disney magic mixed in. You make a real estate investment in a Disney property with a contract. In return, you get Vacation Points, which are replenished every year and used to book vacations.

When you’re ready to go to a participating Disney resort, you use your points to pay for the stay. The amount of points required for the stay depends on several variables, including the time of year, resort you choose, length of the stay, and type of room.

DVC is a flexible timeshare program in that you can use the points for a wide variety of vacations. While you have to choose a home resort, you can use your points toward stays at other DVC resorts and for other vacation types, such as Disney cruises.

Disney Vacation Club Resorts

When you join DVC, you choose a home resort from multiple options. Disney Vacation Club resorts are primarily located at Disney World in Orlando. Home resorts outside of Orlando are located in California at Disneyland, Vero Beach in Florida, Hilton Head in South Carolina, and in Hawaii at Disney’s Aulani resort.

Many of the DVC resorts at Disney World are part of larger resorts or have a DVC section along with regular rooms for non-DVC visitors. Examples are the Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary, Boulder Ridge Villas at Wilderness Lodge, and The Villas at the Grand Californian Hotel.

The resorts have different room options, starting with studio rooms, which are similar to a larger, standard hotel room. Most DVC resorts have 1- or 2-bedroom villas if you want more space. Certain resorts have 3-bedroom grand villas or other accommodations, such as bungalows at the Polynesian and cabins at Copper Creek at Wilderness Lodge.

How to Join the Disney Vacation Club

To join the Disney Vacation Club, you need to choose your home resort and complete the contract by purchasing a real estate interest in that resort. In exchange, you get vacation points that you use for booking future Disney vacations. These points refresh every year, so you can book vacations yearly with your points.

Consider which resort you’ll want to stay at most often when joining DVC. It’s easier to get rooms on your choice of days at your home resort.

The number of points you buy is also important. You want enough to cover your intended stay without have lots of extra points.

Disney Vacation Club Cost

The Disney Vacation Club cost depends on how many points you buy. If your price is $201 per point and you purchase 200 points, your investment is $40,200. You also have closing costs, which depend on the home resort you choose and how many points you purchase.

If you can’t afford the entire amount upfront, you can finance the investment. This allows you to pay over several years while enjoying your DVC membership. You’ll make a down payment and then make monthly payments until you pay off the initial investment, much like you would finance and pay off a mortgage.

You also pay annual dues, which vary based on the resort you choose as your home resort. They cover things such as operating costs and the real estate taxes for the resort, and the dues can change yearly. For an example, see the DVC annual dues 2021.

Booking DVC Stays

Each year, you get the number of points you agreed to in your contract to use toward a Disney vacation. You can add points to your contract down the road if you always come up short.

You also have some flexibility to use the points in different years. If you want to take a big vacation this year, you can borrow some points from next year. If you want to save up for a bigger vacation next year, you can carry over this year’s points.

You can book a stay at your home resort starting 11 months before your travel date. If you want to book a vacation at a different DVC resort, the window opens up 7 months in advance.

You’ll have a better change of getting the dates and room type you want at your home resort since you can start booking sooner. Availability usually decreases significantly the closer your travel dates get. DVC availability can be especially limited during busier travel times.

DVC Rentals

What happens if you join the Disney Vacation Club but can’t use your points one year? You can rent out the points to people who aren’t DVC members. This allows you to earn money on the points that you won’t use.

If you’re not sure you want to join DVC, you can rent points from a DVC owner. This is a good way to experience the DVC resorts to see if you want to become a member yourself. It can also be an affordable way to stay at a nice resort without becoming a DVC member.

Perks for DVC Members

Having your yearly Disney vacation is a nice perk itself, but you get some extra bonuses when you become a DVC member. You get discounts on annual passes, which can save you money on park admission. The combination of a DVC rental and a park pass can make your trips more affordable.

You can also get discounts on other products and experiences at Disney. Members get discounts on food and merchandise. You can also book special tours inside the parks at a discounted price.

Disney hosts special events throughout the year that are only for DVC members. You also have access to DVC-only lounges throughout the Disney Parks.

Enjoy Disney Vacation Club

Does the Disney Vacation Club seem like the perfect fit for your magic-loving family? If the investment works for your budget and vacation plans, signing up gives your family access to years of Disney vacation fun.

Visit our archives for information on other destinations around the world.

When is the Best Time to Visit Croatia? A Helpful Guide

February 25, 2020 by John Telford

About 18.5 million people head to Croatia each year. These tourists spend a total of 102 million overnight stays.

If you want to visit this beautiful country, you need to know when the best time to visit is. This will help you make the most of your trip. Now, because regular flight prices depend on the season, a way of always paying the same and not depending on your desired dates for going to Croatia, is by chartering a private jet.

Use this guide to figure out the best time to visit Croatia.

Weather

If you want the best weather for your trip, then plan to go between April and September. It starts warming up in April, though it’s still too cool to swim.

Spring rains are also frequent. By May and June, the weather is at its warmest, and the days are the longest. September still has warm temperatures, but it won’t be as sweltering as July or August.

Cost

You’ll experience the highest prices in July and August. It’s not unusual to find room rates double the cost of what they are in the offseason. Your food and train costs should remain steady, though.

If you’re hoping to save but still want warm weather, try for April, May, and September. This will put you on the fringe of the tourist season.

Tourist Crowds

If you travel to Croatia in September through April, then you’ll experience minimal crowding. This is the offseason.

Knowing where to travel in Croatia can help you avoid the heaviest crowds in July and August. The coastal cities of Split and Dubrovnik experience the heaviest crowding as tourists and locals head to the shore. You can avoid a bit of the crowding during this time by heading more inland.

Cultural Events

Cultural events happen year-round in Croatia, but the biggest festivals and public celebrations happen between April and August. You could attend the Contemporary Music Festival in April to kick the season off.

There’s a film festival in May that brings in filmmakers from all over the world. In June there’s the Pop Music Festival. July hosts a month-long Summer Music Festival. There are nightly concerts and outdoor performances for you to attend.

There are also several food, wine, and art festivals that happen throughout the country in the summer months.

Outdoor Activities

May and June are the best time to visit Croatia for outdoor activities. This is when the weather is warm, and the spring rains have subsided. The Adriatic waters are perfect for diving, swimming, waterskiing, and sailing.

There are eight national parks full of hiking forest trails for you to explore.

Choose the Best Time to Visit Croatia

The best time to visit Croatia will depend on what you want to do, where you want to go, and the budget you’re working with. If you’re going to spend your time by the coast or doing outdoor activities, then the warmest months are the ideal time.

However, if saving money or avoiding crowds is more important, then visiting in spring or fall is a better option.

Check out the Europe section of our blog for more helpful articles on planning your next trip.

Why Should You Visit Australia This Summer

November 13, 2019 by John Telford

Before travelling to Australia, you must have heard of the various attractions, Sydney accommodation options, and the outdoor activities you are going to enjoy on your trip. From surfing at Bondi beach, scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef, driving along the great ocean road to climbing the Sydney harbour bridge, you’ve got your hands full on your summer trip.

Australia is a land full of surprises for both first-time and repeat visitors. The country has vast lands with diverse wildlife species and other attractions that will make your trip a memorable adventure. The natural beauty, exotic atmosphere, and ambience of the country are waiting to amaze you on your tour.

Reasons to Visit Australia in Summer

You Get to Enjoy Massive Outdoor Activities

During summer, you have a lot of outdoor activities to enjoy not forgetting the 5 star Melbourne hotel experience. You can stroll along the beaches, enjoy snorkelling, swimming, and plenty of other activities. Carry your sweatshirts and pants because you’ll have a busy schedule outdoors.

Australia is a diver’s paradise as well as a surfer’s heaven. It has rich diving spots in the sea where you can discover the breathtaking world found underneath the sea waves. One of the most popular diving sites in Australia is the Ningaloo Reef.

If you are a nature enthusiast, you will find plenty of activities to keep your adrenaline high.

Visit the Country’s Natural Attractions

Australia has a lot of natural attractions such as the long coastlines, beaches, sunrise and sunset views, watersports and more. The country has lush forests, enchanting islands, and wildlife zones. Don’t forget the national parks with different species of fauna. The rain forests, mountains, nature trails, tranquil oceans help to connect you with the world.

Apart from the stunning beaches and coastlines, the land of Kangaroos in Australia has the phenomenal Blue Mountains, rain forests, deserts, and national parks. The islands and islets surround the main Island.

To See the Man-Made Attractions

While sightseeing in Australia, you get to see both the natural and manmade attractions of the country. Australia has several museums where you can see the history and art of the Australian people. The Melbourne cricket ground and Sydney cricket ground are places worth visiting, especially if you are a cricket lover.

Here are some of the places to visit in Australia this summer and make your trip an unforgettable one:

The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef stretches over 2300 kilometres and has different species of rare aqua-life. The Great Barrier Reef has more than 900 islands and is the largest reef in the world. It is a summer destination which allows you to indulge in outdoor activities such as snorkelling, diving, swimming, and other leisurely experiences. You will also enjoy riding in a submersible and feeding the fish.

Sydney

Sydney is well known for its scenic harbour. It has a rich history and culture as well as architectural art. The city has beautiful naturist landscapes that make great pictures. It creates a symphony between modernization and nature. It has a soothing climate with exotic restaurants where you can enjoy sumptuous meals.

While in Sydney, you can visit Bondi beach, the scenic Blue Mountains national park, and the Jenolan Caves. Here you will discover the native wildlife of Australia and the natural phenomena of the Jenolan caves.

Port Stephens Dolphins & Dunes is another coastal region with pristine waterways, eco diverse marina, national parks, and golden sandy beaches that you don’t want to miss when in Sydney.

The Gold Coast

The Gold Coast has sunny weather and a destination that is famous for sand and surf. You will find the Currumbin wildlife sanctuary well known for the wild rainbow Lorikeet birds. Gold Coast outdoor activities you will enjoy include kayaking, jet skiing, cruising and relaxing on the beach.

Surfers Paradise is a hub you wouldn’t want to miss. Other places you can visit include the Byron Bay, South Stradbroke Island, and Brisbane.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a city with dynamic radiance and ideal for a summer visit. It is a mystical land full of picturesque and natural treasures. With vibrant street arts and natural acoustics, Melbourne will surely make your tour worthwhile. You can visit the cricket ground, town hall, the royal botanic gardens, and Fitzroy Gardens. Crown your evening at Philip Island as you watch the famous penguin parade.

The city is also famous for its café culture and the best coffee in the world. The food lover’s paradise will enchant your taste buds with unforgettable delicacies.

The Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road takes you through natural destinations such as Shipwreck Coast, 12 Apostles, and the Port Campbell National Park. It stretches to the largest war memorial of Australia.

It leads to varying terrains and landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles limestone formations. The road hugs the surf coast between Cape Otway and Torquay as well as the Shipwreck Coast on the west of Cape Otway. It traverses through limestone and sandstone cliffs, beaches, and rainforests. The natural acoustics of the road include the Twelve Apostles, the Grotto, and the London Bridge. This is a summer experience you should never miss while visiting Australia.

Conclusion

Australia is a dream destination for every traveller. Visiting the country in summer allows you to visit the natural scenery and enjoy more outdoor activities. It is a destination with spellbinding beauty, tranquillity and aesthetic nature with mysteries that fills your tour with upscale adventurous experiences.

5 must-read tips ahead of a family holiday

September 23, 2019 by John Telford

It is likely that the whole clan will be excited for an upcoming holiday, as it will allow you all to have fun, enjoy some freedom, and spend quality time together.

Despite the many wonderful moments a holiday will have in store for you all, it can be easy to make small and large mistakes before and during your break away.

To ensure you have a smooth, enjoyable experience, here are five must-read tips ahead of a family holiday:

1. Pack birth certificates

If you are set to travel alone with your kids who have a different surname or are adopted, you must pack their birth certificates and even their adoption papers before leaving for an airport.

It can prevent an issue from arising at border control that could lead to you missing your flight.

2. Don’t forget the travel vaccinations

If you’re planning to visit an exotic destination, you will likely be researching the best sun lotions for your kids, stocking up on fun beach towels and ensuring that every family member has appropriate clothing to wear. Yet, you might not have considered the need for travel vaccinations, which could protect you and your children from various diseases, such as:

Malaria
Rabies
Yellow fever
Japanese encephalitis

It is, however, essential to book an appointment with your doctor many months in advance, which will ensure that you, your other half, and your children all receive the appropriate immunisations to protect against foreign illnesses.

3. Book child-friendly flight times

Long flights can lead to tiredness and irritability for your kids and could make parents wish they had remained at home.

To ensure you don’t regret your decision, you should pay a little extra for child-friendly flight times.

For example, if your children are under the age of five years old, you should attempt to secure an early morning flight, as young kids tend to become a little crankier as the day wears on.

It might also be beneficial to book a room at a hotel airport, which can eliminate hassle and stress prior to travel.

4. Rent a Car

Travelling via public transport with your kids on holiday can be a nightmare.

If you want to take the stress out of journeying from A to B, you should rent a car at your chosen destination.

For example, there are car hire services at Malaga airport available, which will allow you to jump into a vehicle as soon as you have passed through security and claimed your luggage.

So, you can quickly transport the kids to your accommodation once you have left an airport.

5. Pre-Book as much as possible

While turning up at a landmark, attraction or restaurant might have been fine before you welcomed kids into the world, it might not be the best option when you have tired, hungry and irritable children in tow.

It is a smart idea to pre-book as many activities and restaurants as possible, which could also help you to skip lengthy queues, and will ensure you have more time for fun at a destination.

How to Have the Perfect Staycation

July 11, 2019 by John Telford

Source: Unsplash | Le Creuset

Although you might associate holidays with trips abroad, due to time allowances and your budget, this may not always be possible. However, this does not mean that you cannot have a fun and relaxing holiday in the UK. All the activities that many tourists enjoy abroad, such as sunbathing on the beach and sightseeing are available in the UK if you choose the right destination.

Choose Relaxing Accommodation

Firstly, the accommodation that you choose for your holiday can be the difference between the holiday of your dreams and wishing you had rather stayed at home. When searching for accommodation in the UK, there are many options to make your holiday feel just as special as if you had gone abroad, from resorts with lots of entertainment and activities to keep the kids occupied to camping if you want to get up close and personal to nature.

However, if you want a relaxing holiday to recharge for the next year of work, you should think about hiring a self-catered holiday home for the duration of your stay. Amberley House Cottage Holidays in Sussex are a great option for people looking for a staycation as they allow families to enjoy their holiday at their own pace at the same time as enjoying spectacular views and some of the best of the English countryside.

Pick a Dream Location

Although the UK is much smaller than many other countries that you have dreamed about exploring, the UK’s holiday destinations are vast, and each provides tourists with something different to enjoy. For instance, for a traditional beachside holiday where you can relax on the sand and take part in water sports, Devon and Cornwall are great options, but if you want to experience a new city, Liverpool, Chester and London are hubs of diverse and thrilling entertainment.

The UK is also home to many potential locations for island holidays where you can indulge in nature, such as the Isle of Wight and the Isle of Skye. If you have always wanted to visit somewhere in the UK but never got the chance, this is the perfect opportunity.

Consider Your Travel Options

You might be used to catching a plane to go on holiday, but holidaying in the UK gives you an array of options to choose from. This is especially important for individuals who go on holiday in the UK because of a fear of flying. Cars are the ideal vehicles to take around the UK, because the different places are within close proximity of each other, and these allow you to visit anywhere you want, including rural destinations, stopping off at spontaneous destinations and going at your own pace.

However, the UK also has great public transport options such as trains and coaches, which can take you all over the country to some of the most popular destinations like Brighton and Weymouth. Additionally, trains and coaches also have a wide range of travel cards available which may be able to reduce the cost.

Look Up Local Events

If you need an excuse to go away or are unsure which destination to choose, you should look up events nationally to find one which interests you. During the summer, the UK hosts many music and culture festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe and Hay on Wye Literature festival in which you can combine with exploring a new area.