There are several different types of timeshare, but most people compare point-based and week-based ownership. Regardless of the differences, both offer terrific holidays and the choice will really depend on your lifestyle, specific holiday needs and of course your budget.

Timeshare weeks

This is the traditional type of timeshare. When timeshare began, most owners owned a fixed week at a resort. In South Africa, this form of ownership is a share in a share block company or ownership of a share in property (resort) in terms of sectional title. Weeks are assigned a number based on where they fall on the calendar year. The way weeks work can vary depending on the type you own. Two of the most common types of week-based timeshares are floating and fixed.

• Fixed Week Timeshares

If you own the traditional fixed-week timeshare, you are generally eligible to vacation at your resort for the same week every year. A fixed week timeshare is no longer the norm, but some families still prefer them because they take the stress out of vacation planning. You will never need to plan ahead to reserve your time at the resort or worry about not getting your spot. Especially if you plan to travel during highly popular seasons or holiday weeks.

• Floating Week Timeshares

Floating week timeshares offer more freedom to make reservations than a fixed week. Additionally, with a floating week timeshare, the time you’re allowed to book is “floating” meaning that the time you can visit your resort varies. Typically, floating week timeshares are restricted to a season, but you have the ability to book any week within that season.

Timeshare Points (Clubs)

If you own timeshare points, you are typically given an allotment of points that renew on the date stipulated in your timeshare contract. The advantage of points is that they do not tie you to taking a holiday at the same resort at the same time of the year.

Each year you receive your annual allotment of points to book a unit in your “home” resort where your points are attached or in a different resort within the club programme. Bookings are subject to availability so club members need to book in advance to secure their resort of choice. Memberships are assigned a limited timeframe for use unless it is extended by purchasing additional time.

Whichever model you choose, you will benefit much more than other holiday accommodations. When you buy a timeshare, you are getting private bedrooms, a lounge and dining area, a kitchen, a wide variety of onsite entertainment and the peace-of-mind that established and recognised hospitality brands can offer.