How Interval International Works?

Ultimate Guide to How Interval International Works

Interval International (II) is one of the best vacation exchange networks that offers members an exclusive experience of vacation destinations all over the world. Established in 1976, Interval International has grown to become a global leader in membership timeshare exchange services, offering flexibility, convenience, and access to more than 3,200 resorts in over 80 nations.

Now, with Interval International for U.S. timeshare owners, weeks of timeshare ownership can be exchanged for fabulous vacations in other destinations. Through this guide, which is as detailed as possible, one shall learn everything about how Interval International functions and touches every aspect, beginning with membership programs up to the exchange process, vacation planning, and even more.

Whether you are a long-time timeshare owner or about to join a holiday exchange network for the very first time, this guide should furnish you with valuable insights toward making the most out of your membership.

Membership Plans and Benefits

Membership

Interval International provides different membership plans to meet the diverse needs of timeshare owners:

Basic Membership: The entry-level plan, allowing members to exchange their timeshare week for stays at other resorts within the Interval International network.
Gold Membership: This level is a step above Basic, offering additional perks like discounts on Getaway vacations, ShortStay exchanges, and access to first-hand inventory before it’s released to general members.
Platinum Membership: The highest membership level, offering all Gold benefits plus exclusives like Priority Getaways, expanded exchange options, and a personal concierge service.

Key Benefits

Membership with Interval International comes with several advantages, including:

Flexibility in Vacation Planning: Exchange your timeshare week for stays at resorts around the world.
Access to Getaways: Enjoy deeply discounted week-long stays at select resorts without needing to exchange your timeshare week.
ShortStay Exchanges: Book stays of fewer than seven nights, ideal for short vacations or weekend getaways.
Additional Discounts and Offers: Members receive special discounts on services like car rentals, cruises, and airfare.

How the Exchange Process Works

Understanding the Basics

The core of the Interval International program is its vacation exchange. Members can trade the week of timeshare they own for a stay at another resort within the Interval International network. Here’s how it works:

Deposit Your Week: Start by depositing your timeshare week into the Interval International system. This week then becomes available for other members to request.
Search for Exchanges: With your week deposited, you can search the Interval International network for available weeks at other resorts that match your preferences.
Request an Exchange: If you find a suitable match, you can request an exchange. The success of your request will depend on availability and demand for that location.
Confirm and Travel: Once your exchange is confirmed, you can start planning your travel. If no immediate match is available, you can submit an ongoing request and be notified when a match opens up.

Points to Keep in Mind

Seasonal Demand: Availability may vary during holidays and peak seasons, so it’s advisable to plan and book in advance.
Quality Ratings: Interval International rates resorts based on amenities, quality, and overall experience. Higher-rated resorts may require a more valuable timeshare week for a successful exchange.

Vacation Planning and Availability

Maximizing your options requires planning ahead when using Interval International. Here are some tips:

Flexible Dates: Flexibility with travel dates can significantly increase your chances of securing a desirable exchange.
Advance Planning: Start researching and requesting exchanges as early as possible to improve your chances of getting your preferred destination and resort.
Ongoing Search Requests: Utilize the ongoing search feature to automate your search. Interval International will continue looking for matches based on your preferences and notify you when one becomes available.

Managing Availability

The availability of resort weeks is crucial to securing exchanges. Interval International’s inventory relies on the weeks deposited by other members, so popular destinations and peak-season weeks can be challenging to obtain. Understanding this will help you set realistic expectations and plan accordingly.

Range of Resort and Destination Options

Worldwide Destinations

Interval International offers a vast network of over 3,200 resorts in more than 80 countries. Whether you’re dreaming of a beachside escape, a mountain hideaway, or an urban experience, Interval International has options to suit every preference.

Types of Resorts

The resorts available through Interval International vary in style, amenities, and experience, including:

Luxury Resorts: High-end properties offering top-class amenities, service, and comfort.
Family-Friendly Resorts: Designed with families in mind, these properties offer plenty of amenities, activities, and accommodations for kids.
All-Inclusive Resorts: Provide all meals, drinks, and activities within your stay, offering a hassle-free vacation experience.

Flexchange and ShortStay Exchanges

Flexchange

Flexchange is Interval International’s last-minute exchange service. If you have flexibility in your travel plans and can take a trip within 59 days or less, Flexchange offers excellent opportunities to secure an exchange that might not have been available otherwise.

How Flexchange Works

Flexchange operates similarly to the regular exchange process but is only available for vacations planned within a 59-day window. This can be ideal for spontaneous travelers or those looking to maximize unused timeshare weeks.

ShortStay Exchanges

For those who prefer shorter vacations, Interval International offers ShortStay exchanges, allowing members to book stays as brief as two nights.

Benefits

ShortStay exchanges are perfect for quick getaways, special events, or when you want to extend an existing vacation without committing to a full week.

How to Use

Simply search for ShortStay options within the Interval International platform, keeping in mind that availability may be more limited than traditional week-long stays.

Getaways and Promotions

Getaways: Interval International’s Getaways program offers deeply discounted vacation stays without requiring the exchange of your timeshare week.
Benefits: Getaways provide flexibility and savings, allowing members to enjoy additional vacations at a fraction of the usual cost—ideal for members who want to take more trips without giving up their timeshare weeks.
Availability: Getaways are offered based on availability and are often available at short notice, making them perfect for spontaneous travel plans.
Promotions: Interval International frequently runs promotions, offering members additional discounts, incentives, and exclusive offers on travel-related services. Keeping an eye on these promotions can provide extra value and enhance your travel experiences.

Understanding Fees and Costs

Membership Fees

Interval International charges an annual fee depending on the type of membership: Basic, Gold, or Platinum. These fees grant you access to the exchange network, Getaways, and other membership benefits.

Exchange Fees

Apart from the membership fee, members are charged a fee each time they complete an exchange. This fee covers the administrative costs of processing the exchange and varies depending on whether the exchange is domestic or international, as well as your membership level.

Other Costs

ShortStay Fees: ShortStay exchanges have separate fees, typically lower than full-week exchange fees.
Flexchange Fees: Flexchange transactions may have reduced fees, making them an affordable option for last-minute travelers.
Resort Fees: Some resorts charge additional fees for amenities, services, or activities. It’s important to review these charges beforehand to avoid unexpected costs.

Customer Support and Resources Offered By Interval International

Interval International provides comprehensive customer support to assist members with all aspects of their membership, from exchanging weeks to planning vacations.

Phone Support: Members can contact Interval International’s customer service team via phone for personalized assistance.
Online Resources: The Interval International website offers a variety of resources, including FAQs, how-to guides, and video tutorials, to help members navigate the exchange process and maximize their benefits.
Mobile App: The Interval International app allows members to search, book, and manage their exchanges on the go.

More Services

Educational Resources: Interval International provides educational resources to help members better understand the vacation exchange process, offering tips, best practices, and updates on new destinations and resorts.

Final Tips for Maximizing Membership Value

Promotion Tracking: Keep an eye on special promotions and offers to maximize your savings and experience more for less.
Plan Early: The earlier you start planning, the better your chances of securing your preferred destination and travel dates.
Be More Flexible: Flexibility in travel dates and destinations can open up more opportunities and help you take advantage of last-minute deals.
Use Getaways: Maximize the Getaways program for extra vacations without using your timeshare week.
Upgrade Membership: Consider upgrading to Gold or Platinum membership for enhanced benefits, discounts, and exclusive services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Interval International?

Interval International is a vacation exchange network that allows timeshare owners to trade their timeshare weeks for stays at other resorts within its global network.

How do I exchange my timeshare week?

You can exchange your timeshare week by depositing it into Interval International’s system and then searching for available weeks at other resorts that match your preferences.

What is the difference between Getaways and Exchanges?

Getaways are discounted vacation stays that do not require the exchange of your timeshare week, while Exchanges involve trading your timeshare week for a stay at another resort.

What fees are associated with Interval International?

Interval International charges an annual membership fee, as well as additional fees for each exchange, ShortStay, or Flexchange transaction. Some resorts may also charge separate fees for amenities and services.

How can I maximize the value of my Interval International membership?

To get the most out of your membership, plan your vacations early, remain flexible with your travel dates and destinations, take advantage of Getaways, and monitor promotions for additional savings.