As of December 2008, it seems a preliminary settlement has been agreed upon regarding the class action lawsuit – Murillo vs. RCI.  For background on this lawsuit please read the post RCI Class Action Lawsuit, Murillo vs. RCI.  Below you will find the terms and conditions of the settlement benefits in their latest form, which are subject to change.  I will keep this post updated regarding any changes or development in the settlement, and what exactly this could mean for RCI members.  Please scroll to the end of the post to explore how this settlement could effect you, or to post comments regarding this impending legal action.
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So you've done your research regarding timeshares.  You know that you can save money buying on the resale market instead of purchasing directly from a developer.  You have spent hours perusing timesharing forums and websites.  You are well-versed on the difference between points vs. weeks, and your friends have even started emailing you regarding their timesharing questions.  But before you take the plunge into timeshare ownership there is one more step I encourage you to take – try before you buy.
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Luxurious travel is not always synonymous with timeshare. RCI is hoping to change that association with their newest exchange program, The Registry Collection. Catered to the "money is no object" crowd, The Registry Collection is the world's largest high-end timesharing option. This exclusive time share club provides its members access to a network including some of the world's most exclusive, luxury destinations. The Registry Collection is administered through RCI and offers various accommodation options to members including condos, hotels, fractional ownership, private clubs, and yachts. These destinations boast personal concierge services, private jet charters, custom vacation packages, access to international golf locations, personal shopping, and other members-only perks.
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It is no surprise that the depressed economy has started to effect the timeshare market.  Vacations are often among the first expenses to go in a climate of instability.  While it is still too early to tell what time share owners can expect from this most recent economic downturn, we can look at the positive and negative effects it could have on owners, and what you can do to prepare and/or take advantage of the present economic climate.
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With most timeshares focusing on middle-class family vacation needs, a former timeshare developer named Rob McGrath saw a niche market in the luxury timeshare market, and decided to launch clubs targeting affluent families that want the benefits of second home ownership.  These clubs, known as Destination Clubs, basically use the same model as a timeshare.  In exchange for a one-time upfront membership fee, and annual membership dues, a member is able to access a roster of luxury vacation homes around the world, which can be booked based on availability and reservation priorities.
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