Doesn't seem fair to compare world class hotels to timeshares. While both are great, they are just different. Unfortunately, there are no guarantee on timeshares trades but I don't think you'll be able to schedule the Concierge collection any more than 330 days out anyway and that's when most of the airlines start booking seats. You may be better off deciding on your dates, scheduling your airlines tickets and then hoping one of the options for a room comes through. Since you can look up to 2 years out, decide what resorts you would like, the dates time you want to shoot for then place the request. If the request goes through before you need to schedule your tickets, be on the phone at the first day you can call. If not, schedule your tickets for the dates you would like to go and then keep looking for a room. You can always schedule a condo or hotel that is cancellable as a backup.
If you like spending lots of points and getting a world class hotel, you may be happier with the CC. I personally prefer the home feel of a good timeshare. Everyone is different. The timeshares in HI that are on the
DVC list that I would consider are Maui and Kauai Marriotts, Westin Kaanapali (if open then and on the DVC list), Sands of Kahana, Hanalei Bay, and likely One Napili Way. I likely would include Lawaii Beach and possibly Cliff's club depending on how desperate you were to get time there. Also Kona Coast on the Big Island. One thing to note is that most deposits are made at one year or less but KCR seems to be the exception. I was offered a 1 BR 2 years out but declined.
Other options would be to use an alternate exchagne company like San Francisco Exchange or a direct exchange with an owner at one of the resorts in question. In either case, it opens you up to other great properties like Pahio Shearwater, both Embassy's, Hilton HI Village, Whaler, and the Bay Club. You could also deal with those that are members of II and RCI and seer what they could get for you indirectly. Greg Thorson, of this board, is very intersted in an exchange and will likely be able to get you an RCI resort for HI a year out at the Embassy or one of the Pahio properties.
My personal recommendation is to maximize your efforts. Joing TUG at
www.tug2.net and place a direct exchange ad. Look at the other adds and email those that seem to fit your needs asking about an exchange. Place an exchange request with DVC for search first. Contact Independents like SFX, Platinum Interchange, Trading Places HI, and tell them what you have and need. Good luck.
