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In the leisure industry, a destination club (also vacation club or travel club) is a form of timeshare system where members pay a membership deposit and annual dues to access the club's properties.
The concept was introduced in 1998, when Rob McGrath, a veteran of the luxury time share development business, launched Private Retreats.[1] Since then, more than 30 companies have launched clubs targeting affluent families that want the benefits of second home ownership, but with more flexibility and choice in where they vacation each year. The use of a portfolio of high-end homes in resort destinations is said to be preferred by its members over access to a single golf course alone as appears to be the case with country clubs.[2] In 2014, T=the world's largest destination club still in operation was "Inspirato with American Express".[3]
Joining a destination club grants a member access to a collection of vacation homes in various locations around the world in exchange for a one-time membership fee and annual membership dues. Consistent with other vacation options, inventory can be booked based on availability. Some clubs allow members to purchase different membership-types which offer different levels of reservation priority, personalized services and resort amenities such as beach clubs, luxury spas and private chefs.[citation needed]
- ^ "How the Well-to-Do Are Making Do - New York Times". The New York Times. 2003-01-05. Retrieved 2013-10-07.
- ^ Greene, Susan (2015-05-15). "Destination Clubs, Questions to Ask Before Becoming a Member". Condo Hotel Center. Retrieved 2023-09-25.
- ^ "Denver's Inspirato becomes largest luxury destination club - Denver Post". denverpost.com. 2013-07-24. Retrieved 2014-09-14.