The advantages of timeshares are many, contributing to their accelerated rise in popularity. For starters, you can save money over time with timeshares. You don't have to worry about affording an expensive hotel room, because you can lock in tomorrow's vacations at today's prices.

When you vacation at a timeshare resort, and get used to being pampered with all the luxuries of home plus resort amenities, you will find it hard to leave. Timeshares offer condominium-style units, usually fully equipped with kitchens, dining rooms, and living rooms - no more making coffee in the bathroom! Most timeshares also offer a washer and dryer, whirlpool tubs and entertainment centers.

Today's timeshares can put you in control of your vacation, allowing you to choose the destination where want to travel, when you want to travel, the size of the unit, and the amount of time you want to spend on vacation.

Owning a timeshare allows you to:

• Lock in tomorrow's vacations at today's prices. (See the Vacation Savings Calculator.)
• Choose from top destinations and stay at beachfront resorts, mountainside chalets, country cottages and in major cities. You may even be able to take exotic cruises with your timeshare plan.
• Create lasting vacation memories at a different vacation destination every year or return to a favorite spot again and again.
• Indulge in resort-style amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, hot tubs, spa and fitness facilities, and be conveniently located near off-site activities like golf, boating, skiing, and water sports. Some resorts even offer special activities for children.
• Save money by utilizing a fully equipped kitchen.
• Select the amount of space you need, from studio units to spacious three- or four-bedroom units and villas.
• Take more vacations. (Studies show people vacation more when they become timeshare owners.)
• Share your vacations with family and friends. (There's no extra charge for visitors.)
• Improve your health. (Medical research shows that frequent vacations make people less likely to become tense, depressed, or tired.)

If you are still skeptical, that's okay. A timeshare is a long-term commitment and you should investigate it fully before making your decision to buy. For further research, visit the website of the American Resort Development Association (ARDA). You'll learn how the industry is regulated, and that consumer advocacy is a top priority.