(ARA) - Whether vacationing domestically or internationally, traveling produces priceless moments. But as much as we cherish the unforgettable memories, in reality, these vacations can cost thousands of dollars for you and your family. Many luxury travelers are left wanting more than a room at a lavish hotel or the hassles of second-home ownership. More people are finding the vacations they desire through destination clubs, an option that makes financial sense.
A destination club is structured a lot like a country club and offers its members access to a portfolio of luxurious private homes in a variety of locations. People tend to like belonging to a destination club because it has the benefits of second-home ownership, more flexibility as to where you travel and includes five-star service and amenities. It works best for those who want to travel to multiple locations at various times throughout the year.
If you look at some of the alternatives, it makes sense for high-end travelers. Second homes are a viable option for many of these people, but expenses add up quickly. The advantage of owning a second home is that it is always available and can be decorated and designed to fit your personal preferences. With this there are many underlying obligations. Besides paying for the home, you need to furnish it, pay for maintenance and seasonal upkeep. You also don't get to enjoy some of the other amenities, such as concierge service, that come with other options. And, of course, you are tied to one destination.
When staying at luxury hotels, service might be superb, but it comes at a cost. Not only this, but you lose the privacy you get from being in a home environment and your accommodations are typically limited to sleeping quarters only. Destination clubs achieve the best of both worlds.
"Destination clubs are popular because members get to stay at amazing, private properties but with all the personal service they receive at a hotel," says Steve Greer, CEO and founder of The LUSSO Collection, a destination club that specializes in luxury accommodations around the globe. "For approximately the same price as a down payment on a second home, you can join LUSSO and get access to a collection of luxury homes while incurring about one-third of the typical costs to maintain that home."
Members find the costs of club membership to be typically more commensurate with the amount of travel they will likely undertake. And unlike a second home, destination club members don't have to worry about maintenance because the club takes care of each property.
Members join LUSSO for $375,000. The membership deposit is fully refundable should a member decide to leave the club, plus they receive a share in any appreciation in the deposit while they were a member of the club.
As a member, you get access to a variety of luxury homes and properties around the world. Additionally, each member receives complimentary personalized services such as pre-arrival grocery shopping, daily housekeeping, airport transfers and use of a luxury vehicle at most locations.
When deciding on a club membership, look into membership tiers, access to properties and members-to-property ratios. "Ours is limited to a 5.5-to-1 ratio and with one tier of individual membership, all our members are equal, and all enjoy unlimited use of our properties," comments Greer.
This deal made sense to Harry Hoopis, managing partner for Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, Chicago. When a friend presented him with an early opportunity to join he had already done his due diligence and knew how much more value LUSSO represented than larger clubs. He decided to sell his vacation property and cut "the headaches of maintenance, association fees, security, taxes and other issues … This was exactly the right club for me and my family at the right time."
For more information, visit www.lussocollection.com or call (866) GO LUSSO.
Courtesy of ARAcontent 