It turned out we didn't get a chance to go on vacation again for 2 years so if we had made the down payment and monthly dues it would have been a waste.

Now, 30 some odd years later we are at an age where a few exotic vacations and a cruise once in a while have great appeal. In researching the vacation and timeshare options available I ran across a website (http://www.fivestartravelforless.com )that offered timeshares in an unusual way. You make a one-time membership payment and only pay when you go on vacation!

No big down payment with no monthly dues attached for life. You still pass it down in your will. The odd thing about this membership is you can use it at any available location at any time. In the regular timeshare deal you only get to use your timeshare during the same one or two weeks every year. Unless you pay extra, of course.

Not only that but we can go as often as we want! We've already been to Waikiki, Hawaii. Our membership got us a 2 bedroom unit at the Wyndham at Waikiki Beach Walk for only $799.00 for the whole week!

When comparing the exact same size unit and dates, Hotels.com was the only major travel provider who had any available units. They were asking over $530 per night for a total of $4,636.52 for the week. That's over a $3800.00 savings on this one week alone! I just couldn't believe it.

Everything was booked through our membership including the airfare and car rental. You know the commercial: 'One Call, That's All?' This membership delivered that. They got us the cheapest rates available so our trip was an excellent deal all the way around, and we were pampered like royalty our whole stay!

We can invite friends and family to join us at no extra cost because some of the resorts offer condos and such that sleep 8. A 7 night/8 day package starts at just $298.00 for 4 & 5 star resort locations. With our membership we can also give away 3 weeks of resort stays free. It makes wonderful wedding, anniversary and birthday presents.

I would say that this has been the best decision we have ever made when planning a vacation and look forward to many more to come!