Showing posts with label owner services. Show all posts
Showing posts with label owner services. Show all posts

Friday, December 19, 2014

Protect Yourself From Fraud

*Owners at Plantation Resort will soon be seeing this article in the annual newsletter.  We felt that it was too important to wait, so we are also publishing it here on the blog.

An owner recently reported that a group claiming to be affiliated with Plantation Resort has been attempting to sell fraudulent vacation packages to our owners.  They call and invite our owners to dinner at a local restaurant.  Offering a consultation, the imposters convince them to purchase a “vacation package.”   The imposters then take the money and disappear.  Our owners never hear anything about their vacation package again.

In other instances, scammers have called our owners, offering to sell their timeshare for them.  They ask for money to put ads on websites, often called a “marketing fee.”  Then the scammers take the money and make the owner believe that their timeshare was sold.  Many of our owners have been confused when they continue to receive correspondence from us after they were told that their timeshare had been sold to someone else.

Most recently we discovered a ploy to change owners’ contact information. The scammer read off the information on the owner’s account to the Owner Services representative, then they ask to change the phone number, email and home address.  When we figured out what they were doing, we called the phone numbers and were met with resistance. It is unclear as of yet, what the motives are in changing this information.  We have since contacted the police, who are working to uncover who is behind these attacks.  In the meantime we are tracking the accounts that were targeted and we urge you to protect your personal information by keeping it in a safe and secure location.

We continue to warn against giving money up-front to anyone claiming to be able to sell your timeshare for you.  This is true now more than ever.  There are legitimate businesses that will sell your timeshare, but they will not ask for money up-front.  Because a deed is involved, selling timeshare with one of these companies is like selling your house with a realtor.  You do not pay until the property is sold.

Here are some helpful tips if you think you are dealing with an imposter:

  • If someone asks for money up-front, hang up.
  • If someone claims to be with Plantation Resort, call us. We will confirm whether the offer you received is legitimate or not.
  • Do your research before paying any fees.  You can contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357) or by visiting www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov.


If you or anyone you know is involved with a deal that seems suspicious, please contact our Owner Services Department at 1-855-230-1877 and the Better Business Bureau so that we can warn other owners, saving them from becoming the next victims.

Monday, June 30, 2014

Reservation Tip #2: RCI Designates Plantation Resort as Four Different Resorts


Did you know that within RCI Plantation Resort is considered to be 4 different resorts?  If you enter resort ID 4220, 6045, 1797 or 2791 into the resort locator at RCI.com, you’ll see that they are all located here at our resort.

This has led to some confusion.  Exchange guests who stay with us one year and love their condo may come back the next year expecting the same type of unit and be surprised to find something completely different.

Unit options differ depending on the resort ID you use.   For instance, if you need a 1 bedroom condo, you’ll want to search within the resort IDs 6045 or 1797.  Or if you come with a friend, you’ll want to reserve under the same resort ID in order to stay in neighboring condos.

Understanding the differences between resort IDs will help you know what to expect when you reserve your stay.  This post is the second in a series to help you reserve your perfect vacation at Plantation Resort.

The four RCI resort designations (IDs) found at Plantation Resort are:

1797 - Plantation Resort of Myrtle Beach
2791 - Plantation Golf Villas
4220 - Presidential Villas at Plantation Resort
6045 - Plantation Resort Villas




What all 4 resort IDs share

You may consider Plantation Resort one resort, which is true.  Amenities such as the pools, complimentary beach shuttle, spa, breakfast buffet are available to all our guests, no matter which resort ID is linked to your reservation.  All guests check in at the same front desk and enjoy the cheerful service of our excellent staff.

Here's a pro tip: if, for whatever reason, you were late in reserving under one resort ID, try one of the other 3 designations to increase your chances of staying at Plantation Resort.  So while it may seem slightly confusing to have the multiple resort designations through RCI, you can see how it can really work to your benefit when you want to vacation at Plantation Resort.

So let’s look at the 4 resort designations and consider the unique options that each offer.

How they differ
Plantation 4 025 copyPresidential Villas at Plantation Resort-4220
If you’re traveling with a large group and will need a 3 bedroom unit to sleep up to 12, then look into reserving in the resort ID 4220.  This resort designation boasts the highest availability of 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom units, so you’ll increase your chances of receiving the number of bedrooms that you want.

This was the first purpose-built timeshare section of Plantation Resort, which mean it was built specifically with timeshare in mind.  These units are almost identical in their layout so if you've been to a "Presidential Villas at Plantation Resort" unit then you know what to expect from these suites.
Rooms types available in 4220 (Click on links for more info about these room types.)
Plantation Resort Villas-6045
These units are considered “conversion” units, which means that they were originally privately owned condos.  Plantation Resort purchased these units as they have come on the market and has converted them into some of our most up-to-date  timeshare condos.  As not all of the units in a given building have been converted, you may find permanent residents next door to you.
This is the only resort ID that includes 3 bedroom loft units.  It also has the most availability in our popular 2 bedroom lofts.  The loft is “open”, allowing you to see over the railing into the living room below.  In these units, the loft itself is considered a bedroomalways a fun place for children or friends to stay.  These are very popular, so book early and put in a request for this room type if you want to increase your chances of successfully reserving it.

Room types available in 6045 (Click on links for more info about these room types.)
Plantation Resort of Myrtle Beach-1797

Buildings 208, 221, 223 make up this resort ID and is the first resort designation at Plantation Resort affiliated with RCI.  It includes a variation on the loft floor plan—the enclosed loft.  This means that there is a full wall, window and  door separating the loft bedroom from the living room below.

Room types available in 1797 (Click on links for more info about these room types.)


Plantation Golf Villas-2791
Within this resort ID, you will find the most variety among condos.  These are not timeshare units, but are owned by individuals who exchange their unit through RCI.  Because these condos are individually owned, they each have their own unique style that reflects the tastes of the owner.  The floor plans are similar; the main differences will be in the décor.  If you find a unit in the Plantation Golf Villas that you particularly enjoy and would like to reserve again, be sure to put in an early, specific request for that unit because it is unique.

Room types available in 2791 (Click on links for more info about these room types.)
No matter which resort ID you use, once you’re on property we consider it our mission to create an exceptional vacation experience for you and your family.  Our Owner Services staff can help you navigate these resort designations to reserve a unit that will be perfect for you.  To speak with Owner Services or for more information on reserving at Plantation Resort, call 1-800-845-5039.  Hope to see you soon!

Monday, February 17, 2014

Reservation Tip #1 — All Rooms Are Not Created Equal: Room Types Explained

A successful vacation begins with great planning. To help, we’re publishing a series of articles providing you tips on how to make the most of your Plantation Resort vacation.  This first article describes the different types of accommodations offered at Plantation Resort.  We hope this information will aid you in deciding which room or unit type best suits your needs and help you make that perfect reservation.
 
There are seven different unit types offered at Plantation Resort.  We describe each type and discuss the advantages and benefits of each. They are:
  1. Hotel Room
  2. Deluxe Hotel Room
  3. One Bedroom Condominium
  4. Two Bedroom Condominium
  5. Two Bedroom Loft Condominium
  6. Three Bedroom Condominium
  7. Three Bedroom Loft Condominium
 
This room works well for a couple out for a romantic vacation together or the lone traveler. It sleeps 2 people comfortably and is similar to what you would find at an upscale hotel. 

Hotel Room – View from the Entrance
Hotel Room – View from the Bath
 
In the hotel room you’ll find:
  • king bed
  • dresser
  • small refrigerator
  • coffee maker
  • microwave
  • full bath.
This unit provides all the essentials for your vacation at the most affordable rate.



Deluxe Hotel Layout
Deluxe Hotel Room
With twice the space of the hotel room, you’ll find the deluxe hotel is much more roomy.  Another advantage over the hotel is the deluxe hotel‘s mini kitchen.
 
The mini kitchen is equipped with:
  • place settings for 4
  • small refrigerator
  • coffee maker
  • microwave
  • toaster
  • sink
  • dishwasher
  • 2 burner hot plate for stovetop cooking so you can prepare quick meals
  • washer and dryer.
There’s also a sleeper sofa next to the king bed. This layout is ideal for two people or a young family with up to two children who are happy to share a room. The deluxe hotel room has a 4-person occupancy rating with 2 people sleeping on the king-sized bed and 2 people sharing the double-sized sleeper sofa.
 

The Deluxe Hotel Room
At Plantation Resort, the deluxe hotel is often the third bedroom (referred to at times as a lock-off) of a 3 bedroom condominium.  If this is the case, you’ll find near the mini kitchen a locked door that enables access to the adjacent unit if you’ve reserved the entire three bedroom condominium. Some resorts call this room type a studio or an efficiency.  Click here to see photos of this unit on our Facebook page.



One Bedroom Condominium
The 1 bedroom unit differs from the two hotel rooms above in that the bedroom and the living room are separate living spaces. This unit is best suited for small parties who prefer more privacy than a hotel room and enjoy the convenience of a full kitchen.

The 1 bedroom condominium includes:
  • king-sized bed in the bedroom
  • full kitchen
  • washer and dryer
  • full bathroom
  • sleeper sofa in the living room.
This unit comfortably sleeps 4 people privately with 2 in the bedroom and 2 on the sleeper sofa in the living room.
There are only a few one bedroom units at Plantation Resort. So if you feel a one bedroom condo is the room type for you, please reserve early so that you’ll be sure to find one available.



Two Bedroom Condominium
If your vacation philosophy is “More the Merrier!” then a 2 bedroom unit may be just what you are looking for. We recommend this condo for groups of up to 8. This condo has more bathroom and bedroom space than the previous units. In the master bedroom, you’ll find a comfortable king-sized bed and a master bath. The guest or second bedroom has two double beds with a hall bath that is shared with those sleeping in the living room on the queen-sized sleeper sofa. This larger unit includes a full kitchen with the same amenities as the 1 bedroom condominium. 

Full Kitchens found in the 1, 2 and 3 bedroom units.

2 Bedroom Condo















2 Bedroom Loft
 






Two Bedroom Loft Condominium
Our loft condominium adds an extra degree of room and natural light. As you enter this unit, you’ll be awed by the soaring 18 ft ceiling with skylights. We know of no other vacation unit on the beach as spacious as our loft condos! Upstairs, the bedroom loft opens to the living room below and is the best spot to take in the view. 


This unit has the same kitchen/living room layout as the 2 bedroom condo. The 2 bedroom condominium sleeps 8 with 2 sharing the king bed in the master bedroom, 4 in the loft and 2 sharing a bed in the queen sleeper sofa located in the living room.


Please note that loft units are only found on the second and third floors. Each includes a flight of stairs to the loft, so if stairs are a concern, be sure to request a 1st floor condo. If stairs aren’t a problem or your goal is to keep fit while on your vacation, be sure to ask for the third floor. With three flights of stairs to your unit and another flight to the loft, you’ll have ample opportunity to meet your fitness goal. One big advantage of the third floor condo is that on a clear day from the balcony, you have a wonderful view above the pines of the ocean.


Three Bedroom Condominium
Need even more space? The three bedroom condominium is the largest unit we offer.  At over 1,400 sq. ft., it has all the space that a large family or group might need.  This unit has a master bedroom with a king-sized bed and a full bath with a 2 person jetted tub.  There is a second bedroom that has 2 double beds, a shared bath that is accessed from both the bedroom and from the living room where there is a queen sleeper sofa.  And there is a third master bedroom suite with a king bed, a double sleeper sofa, a private bath, a mini kitchen and its own living room and dining area.  See the Deluxe Hotel Room description for more details on the third master bedroom suite.

This unit comfortably sleeps 12 people including the queen sleeper sofa in the living room and the double sleeper sofa in the master bedroom suite. This unit also has all the same kitchen and living room amenities as the 1 and 2 bedroom condos.  At Plantation Resort, these condos are called the Presidential Villas.  To see photos, click here.



Three Bedroom Loft Condominium
The Three bedroom loft condominium has all the wonderful features you find in the 2 bedroom loft plus an additional bedroom.  Here you'll find that 12 people sleep comfortably with 2 on the king-size bed in the master bedroom, 4 people in the guest bedroom plus 4 people in the loft and 2 people on the queen sleeper sofa in the living room.

This unit is popular but rare and they go quickly so please reserve early if this is your condo of choice. 
View from the Loft





Loft Bedroom

Can't decide which is best for you?  Let us help!
Reservation specialists are available from 8 am to 9 pm seven days a week at 1-800-845-5039 and are happy to help you choose the best accommodations for your needs.  We hope to see you soon on your next Plantation Resort vacation!

Thursday, January 23, 2014

Time Is Running Out - Enter to Win Free Maintenance Fees!





There are only a few weeks left for you to enter to win payment of your next maintenance fee!  Sign up for the Maintenance Fee Monthly Payment Plan before the contest ends February 15th!
 
Calls have been pouring in since we announced the Monthly Maintenance Fee option, and we don’t want you to miss out on this exciting opportunity.  Call and register today at 1-888-913-4477!

What is the Monthly Maintenance Fee Plan?
The plan enables you to break your annual maintenance fee into easy-to-handle monthly payments.  Beginning in October of each year, maintenance fees are divided into 12 equal installments to be paid each month.  For example, if your maintenance fee is due in January 2015, your first payment is made with your choice of a credit card, debit card or checking account in October 2014.  Don't worry if October has already past.  You can start the monthly plan anytime!  Contact us for details.  When you enroll, you choose when your payment will be drafted each month: the 5th, 10th, 15th or 20th. A minimal $2 service fee is attached to each month’s payment.  You also have the option to pay in full at any time without penalty.  Simply contact the accounting department at 1-888-913-4477 to pay the remaining balance.

Imagine the freedom this gives you around the Holidays not to worry about a large payment coming due in January.  Additionally, when you switch to the Maintenance Fee Monthly Payment Plan you can begin planning your next vacation right away.  As soon as you enroll you're able reserve your next vacation immediately, instead of waiting until the full balance is paid.

It’s time to take advantage of this amazing offer!  To register, have your credit card, debit card or checking account with routing number ready and call 1-888-913-4477 between 8am and 4pm, Monday through Friday and ask for the Accounting Department.  Remember, the contest to win your next maintenance fee ends February 15th so sign up today!