Question on RCI Resort Choices when banking DVC points

[mickeysgal]

I'm deciding whether to bank some points that are expiring into RCI. Are the RCI resorts that we can see via the DVC vacation club site, the resorts that are truly available to us or it there a DVC short list elsewhere? Also, how realistic is it to assume that some of these resorts are actually attainable? For example, there are lovely Aruba and Cancun choices, but is this realistic to be able to ever get in these locations? The points I have are for a 1 bedroom high season and a 2 bedroom high season (according to member services). I've never put a toe in the RCI/DVC waters, so I have no idea what to expect - realistically. Searching through the threads, there seems to be a general air of disappointment with the RCI exchange option. Thanks!

 

[CarolMN]

I don't know the answer to most of your questions, but I do know that if you make a late deposit, you will be limited to when you can book the RCI exchange. To me, that means many, if not all of the "better" choices will not be available to you. The good stuff gets booked early and usually goes to the most valuable traders (which are defined according to RCI's criteria).

This is copied from the new planner - page 132:

* Depositing inventory into RCI is subject to availability. DVC must be able to provide inventory to RCI within the same use year.

* If you deposit DVC resort accommodations with a check in date of 44 days or less from the day you call to deposit, this is considered a "Late Deposit". With a "Late Deposit" you would need to be flexible to search for an exchange by calling Member Services 44 or less days from your requested check in date.

 

[ldo]

the best place to ask is over at TUG2.net. This is a BB, like disboards, for timeshare owners. You can post a question on the Exchanging BB and find out. I believe that Cancun is realistic, esp. if you are looking for one of the Mandatory all-inclusive resorts, which have extra fees. Aruba is possible, but you would need to be looking at least 1 year out. Virturally nothing "good" is available under 9 months.
Lastly, think of the RCI list as a "dream book," but realize that it is all supply-demand. Many owners use high demand weeks and don't trade them (such as St. John weeks, skiing in Vail, etc., so if you are seeking Christmas in Arbua--you might not have much luck. Spring break/Easter is also tough--but if you want summer, much better chances. Although RCi gets a lot of knocks, there are some very nice resorts.
We have stayed at Smugglers Notch in VT and Hilton Head in the summer with our kids via RCI trades, but the early bird gets the worm. Be sure to put in a ongoing search--like a waitlist. good luck. Elaine

 

[mickeysgal]

I don't know the answer to most of your questions, but I do know that if you make a late deposit, you will be limited to when you can book the RCI exchange. To me, that means many, if not all of the "better" choices will not be available to you. The good stuff gets booked early and usually goes to the most valuable traders (which are defined according to RCI's criteria).

This is copied from the new planner - page 132:

* Depositing inventory into RCI is subject to availability. DVC must be able to provide inventory to RCI within the same use year.

* If you deposit DVC resort accommodations with a check in date of 44 days or less from the day you call to deposit, this is considered a "Late Deposit". With a "Late Deposit" you would need to be flexible to search for an exchange by calling Member Services 44 or less days from your requested check in date.

I haven't hit the 44 day mark, so I'm still in the "good" zone for depositing (I think). So given that I'm outside of the 44 day mark, what does that mean for me trade-wise? I have full flexibility in asking for a trade?