ARDA Inside Look - Issue 5
First Word
President/CEO Jason Gamel
As timeshare resorts begin to reopen across the United States, we are reminded once again of the resiliency of our product. A recent Florida Politics article summed it up nicely: “Timeshares hold key advantages over other forms of lodging: the prepaid nature of the product gives owners motivation to show up; amenities such as in-unit kitchens, washers and dryers play nice with social distancing guidelines; and prepaid professional maintenance ensures units and public areas are routinely cleaned to a high standard.” An increase in bookings and high occupancy numbers, especially in drive-to locations, are good indicators of a positive summer ahead. And on the employment front, according to a recent survey by the AIF, more than 35% of furloughed employees were brought back to work this month, with more expected next month. We know there is still a very long and winding road ahead to recovery. Still, we, at ARDA, remain committed to serving our members as they return to business through our advocacy efforts, research programs, and continued communication with media and our membership.