Timeshares Rise in Popularity With Millennial and Gen Z Travelers

Often when people think about timeshare ownership, they think of it as an old-fashioned vacation model that only our grandparents were interested in. However, this cannot be further from the truth based on recent studies.

In a 2022 report from the ARDA International Foundation, the question of ‘who buys timeshares’ is answered. The data shows that Millennials and Gen Z now make up more than half (57%) of all timeshare owners. They also happen to account for more than half of new sale purchases.

Since the ARDA International Foundation began conducting this study, they have seen a steady decrease in the age of owners, proving that timeshare ownership has evolved for the modern traveler.

Gen Z and Millennial travel goals are more achievable with the help of timeshare ownership. Timeshares offer plenty of flexibility, affordability, and added benefit options including cruise vacations and more unique vacation experiences. No longer are owners locked into a specific timeframe or destination, but timeshares offer the freedom to schedule vacations on your time and exchange for new travel opportunities.

Where Do Gen Z and Millennials Travel?

This study additionally showed a shift in where people are purchasing timeshares. Since 2020, interest in city/urban ownership has gone up to 44% in 2022 from 34%. In the same timeframe, beachfront/coastal areas have declined from 47% to 39%.

This is likely centered around the pandemic, where travelers were choosing vacations in less crowded and outdoor settings. Now, people are feeling more comfortable heading back to the more populated city areas.

With Millennials and Gen Z travelers, there is room for both city and beach destinations. These two generations are interested in a variety of European and tropical vacation destinations, and both are readily available to visit with the help of timeshare ownership.

Here are some of the most popular vacation destinations among Gen Z and Millennial travel enthusiasts.

France

Timeshares in France are mostly located in the Paris area near incredible restaurants, impressive sights, and rich culture. Millennials and Gen Z are very interested in international travel, especially after being limited in their travel options during the pandemic.

Many members of Gen Z are still single or don’t have children yet, making a trip to France extra appealing. While many Millennials have families, France can be a lovely family experience, especially with Disneyland Paris near many of the resorts.

Most popular timeshare resorts include:

• Marriott’s Village d’Ile-de-France
• Royal Regency
• Residence Massena

Hawaii

Hawaii is high up on the list of where Millennials and Gen Z want to travel because of its many different islands to explore and the stunning beaches to enjoy. While Hawaii is a part of the US, the islands have their own unique culture and experiences.

Whether you are traveling with friends, a spouse, or the whole family in tow, Hawaii has so much to offer. There are endless possibilities for outdoor adventures with watersports, hiking, ziplining, and cycling. Hawaii also has an impressive culinary scene that foodies will love. You’ll also want to see local wildlife and marine life found at the Honolulu Zoo or the Waikiki Aquarium.

Most popular timeshare resorts include:

• Marriott Maui Ocean Club
• Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas
• Disney Aulani Resort

Caribbean

Like Hawaii, the Caribbean region continuously draws in Gen Z and Millennial travelers for its year-round sunshine, white sand beaches, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation. These generations are incredibly busy and traveling to the Caribbean is a great way to unwind and enjoy a slice of paradise.

Traveling to the Caribbean is great for a wide variety of adventures like snorkeling, kayaking, ATV tours, scenic hikes, sunset cruises, and surfing. Vacationers will also enjoy plenty of dining options, especially fresh seafood. Gen Z and Millennials love trying unique dishes, so you’ll want to dine on unique shark, fish, conch, and lobster dishes that are special to the area.

Most popular timeshare resorts include:

• Wyndham Rio Mar
• Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove
• Divi Arbua Phoenix Beach Resort

California

California features cities, forests, and beaches, making it the perfect state for a wide range of vacations. Additionally, California activities vary by season, which is great for Gen Z and Millennial vacationers to travel based on their favorite hobbies.

In the summer, California is great for boating, golfing, sightseeing, and visiting popular theme parks (like Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, Six Flags, and SeaWorld). During the winter you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, ice skating on Lake Tahoe, and more. There are also great cities for dining and shopping such as San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, and Los Angeles.

Most popular timeshare resorts include:

• Marriott Desert Springs Villas
• Wyndham Oceanside Pier Resort
• Hyatt Highlands Inn

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