What Is a Resort Preview Rate?

By Anna Duncan

Are you planning a vacation and looking for a great deal on a resort stay? You may have come across something called a Resort Preview Rate. But what exactly is it, and how does it work?

What Is a Resort Preview Rate?

A Resort Preview Rate is a discounted rate offered by resorts to potential customers in exchange for attending a sales presentation. In most cases, the resort will require you to attend a timeshare or vacation ownership presentation during your stay.

The idea behind the Resort Preview Rate is that the resort hopes to persuade you to purchase a timeshare or vacation ownership product during the presentation. In exchange for your time and attention, they offer you discounted rates on your accommodations.

How Does It Work?

When you book a Resort Preview Rate, you’ll typically receive a significant discount on your room rate. However, there are usually some strings attached. Most resorts require that you attend a sales presentation during your stay.

The length of the presentation can vary from one resort to another, but it’s typically between 60 and 90 minutes. During this time, representatives from the resort will try to convince you to purchase their timeshare or vacation ownership product.

If you’re not interested in buying, don’t worry – there’s no obligation to make a purchase. However, keep in mind that some resorts may try to pressure you into buying by offering additional incentives or making special offers that are only available if you buy on the spot.

  • If you’re considering taking advantage of a Resort Preview Rate offer:
    • Be prepared to attend a sales presentation
    • Read all of the fine print carefully
    • Understand exactly what’s included in the offer
    • Know what your options are if you decide not to purchase

Pros and Cons of Resort Preview Rates

Like any travel deal, there are both pros and cons to taking advantage of a Resort Preview Rate offer.

Pros:

  • You can save a significant amount of money on your accommodations
  • You may receive other perks or incentives for attending the presentation
  • You’ll have the opportunity to learn more about timeshare or vacation ownership products

Cons:

  • You’re required to attend a sales presentation during your stay, which can be time-consuming and potentially high-pressure
  • Some resorts may use aggressive sales tactics to try to persuade you to buy
  • If you’re not interested in purchasing, you may feel like you’ve wasted valuable vacation time

Final Thoughts

A Resort Preview Rate can be a great way to save money on your resort stay. However, it’s important to go into it with your eyes open and understand exactly what you’re getting into. If you’re not comfortable attending a sales presentation or feel like you may be swayed into making a purchase you don’t really want, it’s best to pass on this type of offer.