Timeshare Division Hurts Marriott Stock

The fall quarter of 2011 saw Marriott International’s profit drop a surprising 18% compared to a year earlier.

Demand for hotels in North America is rising while the industry itself is slowing, which usually means higher prices. But Marriott invested a lot in its timeshare business and has yet to see results.

The company earned $173 million in fourth quarter 2010, and only $141 million fourth quarter 2011.

Despite not meeting stockholders’ expectations, CEO J.W. Marriott Jr. released a statement saying: “"We are bullish about the long-term growth prospects for both Marriott and the global lodging industry. With a growing middle class and rapid economic growth in many emerging markets, global demand is increasing steadily."

Overall revenue for the company was up 31%, from $11.69 billion in 2010 to $12.32 billion in 2011. The fourth-quarter loss was in line with Wall Street Predictions. Hoteliers agree that 2012 will bring new emerging markets and tourism to new areas, something I’ve written about previously.

How to scuba dive with sharks

Nom, nom, nom.

Diving with sharks is one of the most thrilling adventures a traveler can go on. If you’re in the Bahamas or Mexico at a resort or timeshare, you may find an offer for a shark dive. After doing some research, I’ve compiled a list of tips to keep you safe while enjoying this dangerous activity.

Note the behavior of fish. Fish will often swim erratically when sharks are near.

Stay out of the water if you see groups of dolphins or seagulls as they are attracted to the same food sharks eat. Dolphins are also prey for large sharks, and it is a myth to think that sharks don’t attack and eat dolphins.

If you are bleeding, do not even get in the water. Everything you heard is true: sharks can smell blood from up to a mile away and hone in on its source.

Descend quickly.  Sharks’ favorite meals are found near the surface, such as sea lions and already dead fish. Head to the bottom after diving and use minimal movement.

Never use baitfish to attract sharks; they may use you as the meal instead.

Know your species. Contrary to popular opinion, it is the Bull Shark that is responsible for most attacks on humans worldwide, not the Great White.

Know that sharks are timid and curious. Though real attacks are few, sharks will bump into divers as they are not used to humans, which can cause panic and erratic behavior, making the shark aggressive as well. Don’t wear shiny objects either, as they attract shark's attention.

Now that you’ve had this primer you’re ready for this (the money shot is one minute in). Have a great dive.

If you're tired of swimming in the shark-infested waters of timeshare ownership, we're here to help. Transfer Smart will give you an In-Writing Guarantee of their services if you qualify, and 96% of applicants will. Contact us today.

Indonesia’s Best Surf

                                                                   Kelly Slater in Bali.

Traveling to Indonesia is a surfers dream. It’s exotic and full of beautiful beaches and world-renowned waves. But the trip can be daunting. Flights are expensive, and people aren’t sure where to stay. We love surfers here at Transfer Smart and have dug up a short list of the best resorts and the best waves in Indo.

The Mentawai Islands

One thing that bothers surfers is looking at surf reports and trying to figure out where the best waves will be. Well the Mentawai Islands have some of the most high quality, consistent wave in the world. Year wound, surf perfection is here, whether you’re in West Sumatra or Breakaway, walking the flawless islets to your next score.

Panaitan Island

An 800 yard-long left awaits you here, as well as the legendary One Palm Point and Apocalypse.

Bali

I don’t think more could be written about Bali that hasn’t already been said. Consistent surf, warm weather and things to do for the whole family have made this a year-long surf Pro-Am spot.

Nias Island

This break is from 8-15 feet year round, and boasts an interesting geographical feature- a sandbar that allows you to walk out 100 yards into the water, upon where you can just dive into the wave of your choosing.

Sumba Island

Excellent waves in beautiful surroundings, and close to Bali? Yeah, you’d want to check out Sumba Island too. There’s also great fishing, snorkeling, bird watching and relaxing.

I want out of my timeshare contract. What would happen if I just stopped paying towards it?

Here at Transfer Smart many patrons make the same comment: I don’t want my timeshare anymore. What happens if I just stop paying the yearly special assessment and maintenance fees?

First, the timeshare company will vigorously pursue the money you owe them. Some contracts last for thirty years; others “forever,” as they are passed down to your children. Just because you don’t use a timeshare doesn’t mean you can stop paying on it. Timeshare companies are well versed in how to write up their contracts that are beneficial to them, not you. And as long as you are paying towards an empty room, they are winning.

If you decide to stop paying, they will do everything they can to contact you, either through email, snail mail or by phone. If you stay the course, they will send you over to a collection agency and this is where your credit rating begins to suffer. Most timeshare owners have good credit, and will give in here. But it’s ridiculous that a vacation resort, which is supposed to serve and provide relaxation to you, would be so tenacious in their pursuit of your money. But in a recession, tourism is down, and they have your name on a contract that is very much slanted against you. They will do your best to get your credit ruined, and they will continue with harassing letters and phone calls.

The only way to get out of a contract is to legally get your name off of it. This is where Transfer Smart comes in.

We offer legal exit solutions that get you out of your contract forever. Contact us today to see what we can do for you.