We have an II timeshare to use for an exchange and have always wanted to go to the Carribean, but I'm having trouble deciding which island, and which time share to try for. We love the sun, beach, wandering and exploring shops, restaurants, and good food, and don't want to be tied to a car to go everywhere. We are looking to go in Feb. or March of 08. Suggestions, please!

Try St John in March.

Aruba has many timeshares, so your chance of getting one there will be good. It has all the things on your wish list.

Hi, I have been an interval member for eight years -- it can be quite difficult to trade into the Caribbean in high season. To increase your chances you need to get your request in now. You also shouldn't get your heart set on one island because other than Aruba and Cancun there isn't another island that has lots of destinations in II. You have to give them at least three choices to work with -- either three different weeks for one resort or three or more destinations for a particular week. Hyatts, Marriotts, Westins and Hiltons are all hard to get through Interval because they all give priority to their own members first. And in most cases the weeks don't become available to Interval members until about 8 weeks out, so it can be hard to plan and get airfare at that late date. For the easiest match, try Aruba but don't just put all three Marriott resorts down as you might not get them, I like Playa Linda and Costa Linda but they are hard to trade into, La Cabana is easier to get but it is getting a bit rundown. Any of the Royal Resorts in Cancun are also easier to get. Sorry not to be more optimistic but I have had a hard time trading into the Caribbean for a particular time period, even in the off season.

Hi,
Thanks for your responce. I have been researching Aruba resorts, comparing with reviews from RCI, etc. and of course want all the resorts that it will be hard to get into(i.e. the one's you mentioned are on the top of my list!). We're flexible on time of Feb. or March, so hopefully we'll be able to get a great vacation.