How the Ritz-Carlton Destination Club Program Works

Do you prefer to stay at Ritz-Carlton properties when traveling? If you're a fan of the Ritz-Carlton spa experience and find yourself at these luxury hotels several times during the year, you could be a good candidate for the Ritz-Carlton Destination Club membership program. This equity-based membership program is designed like a timeshare agreement and gives you the chance to stay at your destination of choice as a VIP guest. Here's what you need to know about the Ritz-Carlton Destination Club Program:

About the Ritz-Carlton Destination Club Program
The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club program provides exclusive access to a dedicated Residence for a certain number of day search year, as well as access to more than 70 Ritz-Carlton hotels around the globe. Members also get other perks throughout their stay. You can choose either the Home Club Membership or the Portfolio Membership.

The Home Club Membership is a good match for guests who want to visit the same Ritz-Carlton Destination Club throughout the year. The Portfolio Membership is designed for travelers who want to stay at multiple locations over the course of the year. With this membership program, you get to choose the length of your stay, as well as the type and size of your accommodations.

As of 2011, there are 10 primary Ritz-Carlton Destination Clubs in the United States and the Caribbean. Members can also choose to stay at one of the 70 Ritz-Carlton Experience Collection properties, and Portfolio members can stay in properties in The Lion & Crown Collection.

Benefits of Being a Member of the Ritz-Carlton Destination Club
If you go on extended stay vacations frequently, you will be able to make the most of the benefits and amenities available through the Ritz-Carlton Destination Club program. Many accommodations include beachfront cabanas and multi-room residences that are designed like an apartment suite. These residences typically have gourmet kitchens, high-end appliances, luxury linens and separate living and dining areas with designer furnishings. All travelers have access to onsite amenities at no additional fee, and kids between 5 and 12 years of age can participate in the "Ritz Kids" program that includes arts-and-crafts workshops, snorkeling trips and other educational activities during their stay.

Other member privileges include access to private golf courses, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centers, discounted luxury spa services, private member lounges and meals delivered to the residence. Some clubs have chefs available to prepare meals right in your gourmet kitchen.

Another benefit of this program is the concierge and trip planning service available. All members are assigned to a "Member Experience Team" member who is responsible for creating a personalized vacation experience and can plan all the details of the trip. This service is included with your membership.

This program still works like a secured real estate trust transaction, but offers some more flexibility than a traditional timeshare. If you prefer to stay at Ritz-Carlton hotels when traveling around the globe, or have funds available to invest in a timeshare, the Ritz-Carlton Club Collection and other properties may offer exactly what you need.

Sources:
Ritz-Carlton Club - Explore Destinations
World Property Channel