|
|
|
Last Updated: Jul 2nd, 2008 - 21:15:22 |
(ARA) – When dreaming of traveling, everyone has something different in mind. And when investing in a vacation or second home, you want to make sure you get what you want. For many, destination clubs are the answer because they provide the best of many worlds.
If you’ve heard of a destination club, but never really understood what it meant, you’re not alone. It's a new concept in upscale vacationing that combines the spaciousness and splendor of a private home with five-star service and amenities. A destination club offers its members access to a portfolio of luxurious private homes in a variety of locations. People tend to like belonging to a destination club because it has the benefits of second-home ownership, but with more flexibility and choice as to where you travel.
There are many aspects of owning a second home that can be costly. Besides a considerable down payment, all the underlying obligations can add up, including the time and money that must be put toward maintenance. Travelers are now looking to destination clubs because oftentimes the same money that was invested in a second home can be invested in a club membership where they can visit multiple locations and enjoy top-of-the-line accommodations.
“Destination clubs are becoming popular among affluent travelers because members get all the perks and personal service like at a country club, and they get a variety of choice destinations and usage of incredible homes,” says Kristen Hegna, director of membership services for LUSSO, a destination club that specializes in luxury accommodations around the globe. “They are finding that rather than purchasing a second home, or even booking a week at a luxury hotel, destination club membership provides travelers with a variety of benefits not found with other vacation options.”
Personalized service is what many look forward to in their club membership. This means that someone is there to assist you and your family’s needs. For example, at LUSSO they work with each member to provide complimentary personalized services such as pre-arrival grocery shopping, daily housekeeping, airport transfers and a luxury vehicle. When looking into clubs, be sure to ask if these extras come at an additional cost.
This personalized service can be the difference between a busy, hectic trip and one that is really relaxing and enjoyable. Once you remove the worries, you are truly on “vacation.” LUSSO provides a local concierge, available 24/7, to take care of any spontaneous requests. Local contacts oftentimes have relationships that allow them access to private golf courses, discounted skiing, difficult-to-get restaurant reservations and other activities not available to the average tourist.
Many destination clubs are set up at different membership levels. Make sure to check the costs of each and what the property-to-member ratio is. This could determine how often you are able to utilize your membership. “Every club’s structure is different,” comments Hegna. “For example, ours is limited at a 5-to-1 ratio and all our members are equal, with unlimited use of our properties.”
As a member of LUSSO, Nick Horn, a consultant to Lincoln Financial Advisors in Alamo, Calif., advocates the program: “The properties, the service, and the ease of setting up the trips have met and exceeded our expectations. We couldn't be more pleased with our experience to date.”
With properties in locations such as Lake Tahoe, Calif.; Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Manhattan; Hawaii; the Bahamas and other choice destinations, LUSSO members pay a fully refundable deposit (currently $375,000) and annual dues for unlimited access to the club’s portfolio of residences and services. For more information, visit www.lussocollection.com, or call (866) GO LUSSO.
|
© Copyright by Eveningsnews.com
Top of Page
|
|
|
|
