Westgate??

[toledo13]

Hi all. A friend of ours has a timeshare at the Westgate that they NEVER use, so they're letting us use it next fall. It's a 4 bedroom something or other... has anyone stayed at the Westgate before? I've heard HORROR stories, but we're not going to go through the presentation- we have our tickets already HAHA. HELP! Any advice would be GREAT!!

 

[Janet Hill]

There's nothing wrong with the resort. Just stay away from the timeshare presentation and you will have a wonderful time. Or if you're like me, you'll go for the freebies and the challenge.

If you have your tickets, they will offer you something else to attend.

 

[TotoToo]

Hi all. A friend of ours has a timeshare at the Westgate that they NEVER use, so they're letting us use it next fall. It's a 4 bedroom something or other... has anyone stayed at the Westgate before? I've heard HORROR stories, but we're not going to go through the presentation- we have our tickets already HAHA. HELP! Any advice would be GREAT!!

Most Westgate resorts are actually quite nice. Far from the best timeshares but a big step above a hotel room at a similar cost (or less!).

The only real problem is the sales pressure is unending. They start when you arive & they wan to give you a cart ride to the unit. In some ways it's best just to take it. Then they will want to come in the unit with you "to check it out" but it's really to get you to sign up for a sales meeting. ADVICE: Go ahead and sign up. Try to make it for the day you are checking out - preferably after 10AM. Just keep repeating you are booked every other day & they should take that. Once you have the appointment simply ignore all other sales contact OR tell them you are scheduled for XX/XX at XX. Unplug your unit phones (they will call early in the A and late at night - best to avoid them). Check out at 9-10AM and be on the road when the appointment time rolls around.

Remember you owe them NOTHING. It is your vacation, you are staying at your friends paid for timeshare - there is NO requirement to talk to sales, go to any "maintenanc meetings", etc - and there will be NO bogus charges for damage, etc (but they are likely to say all that & more). Ignore them and enjoy your stay. Westgate is the worst for pressure sales so you never want to actually sit down with them. Always remember you can buy any week/unit you did want for pennies on the price they give resale - but you should never consider owning at any Westgate in any case.

Be strong. Avoid sales. Have fun.