2026 ARDA Spring Conference
Overview
The ARDA Spring Conference gathers more than 1200 timeshare industry professionals for three days filled with education, networking, special keynotes and more at the premier event for the vacation ownership industry.
1200 Industry Professionals In One Area
Special Keynote Speakers
Education Series
Hotel Information
The Bellagio Las Vegas is the host hotel for the ARDA Spring Conference. The ARDA Group Rates for standard rooms range from $228 to $354 per night plus tax and resort fees, depending on the day and type. Rooms will be available until April 16, 2026, or until the block is sold out, whichever comes first. Please make your room reservations in a timely manner and note that once the block is sold out, ARDA cannot add additional rooms at the group rate. Any rooms if available, after the block is sold out, will be at the hotel’s prevailing rate. A one-night deposit will be charged to your credit card at the time of reservation. This deposit will be forfeited if the hotel room is not cancelled within 72 hours of confirmed arrival date. To make your hotel reservation, please use this link Bellagio Sleeping Rooms.
Are you interested in booking a suite? We have a limited number of Bellagio Suites available on a first come first serve basis. Please use this link to check availability and rates: Bellagio Suites
Why you should stay at The Bellagio, the host hotel, for the ARDA Spring Conference:
- Keep your registration fees from going up! By staying at The Bellagio, you’re helping ARDA keep registration fees low. The hotel provides ARDA with free meeting rooms, if and only if we meet the required guest rooms in our hotel contract. Otherwise, ARDA must pay for meeting rooms, as well as for each room we fall below the minimum- and registration fees will go up!
- Networking Opportunities! Staying at The Bellagio puts you at the epicenter for everything ARDA Spring Conference. Social and networking opportunities abound, and you don’t have to leave property to find them!
- Save on Transportation! If you’re not staying at The Bellagio, you’ll be spending money on Ubers or parking to attend the events at the ARDA Spring Conference.
Hotel & Attendee List Scam Alert:
Large conferences like the ARDA Spring Conference are often targeted by scammers pretending to offer exclusive hotel deals or attendee lists. These third party “pirate” companies set up fraudulent websites and send phishing emails. Their goal? To steal your personal or credit card information. These offers are not legitimate, and ARDA has no affiliation with any company offering to sell an attendee list or book hotel rooms.
Registration
If you are a team member of an ARDA Beacon Member organization: Disney Vacation Club, Hilton Grand Vacations, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Marriott Vacations Worldwide, Travel + Leisure Co. or Westgate Resorts, please register with your company representative.
Registration Fees for the ARDA Spring Conference are as follows:
| Type Of Registration | Deadline | Fee |
| Standard | May 13 | Member: $1800 | Non-member: $2500 |
| International Developer Non-Member | May 13 | Non-member: $2000 |
| Virtual Only | May 13 | Member: $700 | Non-member: $900 |
*Virtual Only (please note the only content included in virtual attendance are general sessions on Monday/Tuesday /Wednesday and the Awards Ceremony. Other educational sessions and committee events are not available in virtual format)
Registration is now closed.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel on or before February 27, 2026, and receive a refund of 50%. Cancellations received after February 27, 2026, are not eligible for a refund, but substitutions are permitted until April 30, 2026.
No refunds or substitutions are available for the Monday Story Telling Workshop.
New! Suggest a Session
This year’s ARDA Spring Conference will feature a track of shorter sessions that will include 15-minute Express Talk Sessions, 30-minute Conversation Starter Sessions & 45-minute Power Sessions.
Express Talks are meant for one speaker to talk about an idea and share their knowledge on a specific topic with ARDA Spring Conference attendees. This is not a product pitch.
Conversation Starters are meant for fireside chats, case studies and discussions with 2 speakers to present interesting ideas and topics to ARDA Spring Conference attendees. These sessions should include time for audience participation and interaction.
Power Sessions are meant for a panel discussion with a moderator and no more than 3 speakers and should focus on a topic that is of interest to the majority of ARDA Spring Conference attendees.
Do you have an idea for an innovative and forward-thinking session for ARDA Spring Conference? Please reach out to [email protected] no later than March 1, for more information.
Please note that all speakers must be ARDA members, are required to register for the conference and must commit to attending a rehearsal for the session.
Agenda
3:00 pm-6:00 pm
Registration
Sponsored by Accelerated Assets
3:00 pm-6:00 pm
VIP Registration
Sponsored by FNTC
3:00 pm-5:00 pm
Mimosas for Moms Reception
Sponsored by FNTC
7:00 am-5:00 pm
Registration
Sponsored by Accelerated Assets
7:00 am-5:00 pm
VIP Registration
Sponsored by FNTC
8:00 am-5:00 pm
Sponsor Meeting Rooms
8:00 am-9:00 am
Club 100 Breakfast (by invitation only)
Sponsored by MDK
8:00 am-9:30 am
Breakfast in All Attendee Lounge
8:00 am-5:00 pm
All Attendee lounge
8:00 am-5:00 pm
ARDA VIP Lounge
Sponsored by First American Title Insurance
8:30 am-9:30 am
Ethics Committee (closed meeting)
9:15 am-10:15 am
Power Session: Research & Insights
9:30 am-11:00 am
ROC Board of Directors Meeting (closed meeting)
10:00 am-3:00 pm
AI Doodle Caricatures
Sponsored by ONE
10:00 am-11:00 am
Coffee Break
Sponsored by Trinity Service Enterprises
10:00 am-3:00 pm
ProPics Head Shot Studio
Sponsored by Western Alliance Bank
10:30 am-11:15 am
Power Session: A 360 View of the Industry: Hear from Global
Timeshare Association Leaders:
This engaging panel brings together Global Timeshare Association Leaders to deliver a look at the current state of the timeshare industry around the world. From market shifts and innovation trends, panelists will share their perspectives on what’s. Expect a fast-paced, thought-provoking discussion that connects global trends to local realities and highlights what leaders must prioritize to stay ahead
11:15 am-12:30 pm
AIF Board of Directors Meeting (Closed meeting)
11:30 am-12:15 pm
Power Session: Find out why Mexico is the strongest Emerging Market
Join us in learning the changes in the Products and Services offered by Mexican Developers, based on Market trends and Innovation technology, within one of the strongest Emerging Markets and the Huge potential of growth for both, the US and International Markets.
Sponsored by MDK
11:30 am-2:00 pm
Stories That Sell Workshop with Author & Speaker Matthew Dicks
Sponsored by Disney Vacation Club
Matthew Dicks
Ready to transform your business with the magic of storytelling? Learn how to craft compelling narratives that captivate customers, drive engagement, and boost your bottom line. Matthew will show you how to use storytelling to supercharge your marketing, sales, advertising, and branding efforts. Get ready to build a loyal customer base and elevate your brand to new heights.
Additional registration is required. Limit 2 attendees per organization
You can register for this workshop as you register for the conference.
12:00 pm-1:00 pm
All Attendee lunch
Sponsored by The Service Companies
12:00 pm-5:00 pm
Interval International Lounge
12:00 pm-5:00 pm
RCI Lounge
1:00 pm-1:25 pm
Reimagining Timeshare Service and Sales with AI: Five Ways to Drive Revenue Growth
Timeshare operators are under growing pressure to get more value from every owner interaction. In this session, we’ll explore how AI is reshaping performance across both service and sales environments. From pinpointing the drivers of outcomes like booking conversion and owner satisfaction, to assisting agents in real time and automating post-call work, AI enables teams to move faster, handle complex owner needs with confidence, and deliver more consistent experiences across every conversation. We’ll highlight how these capabilities translate into tangible business outcomes, including higher booking conversion, increased packages sold, improved owner satisfaction, and meaningful reductions in handle time, ramp time, and attrition. Attendees will gain a clear view of how leading operators are using AI to unlock incremental revenue while improving the day-to-day experience for both owners and agents.
Sponsored by Cresta
1:00 pm-2:00 pm
Research Committee Meeting
1:00 pm-2:30 pm
ARDA Executive Committee Meeting (closed meeting)
1:30 pm-1:45 pm
Express Talk: Risk Ready: Smarter Strategies for Stronger Communities
Effective risk management is foundational to the long-term health and stability of resort and HOA communities. In this express talk, Scott MacGregor will explore how boards and management teams can better identify, assess, and proactively manage financial, operational, and governance risks before they become costly problems. Drawing on deep experience in association oversight and asset strategy, Scott will share practical insights to help leaders strengthen decision-making, protect owner value, and build resilient communities prepared for an evolving regulatory and economic landscape.
1:50 pm-2:15 pm
Conversation Starter: From First Engagement to Lifetime Loyalty
This session will explore how organizations can enhance owner engagement across the entire lifecycle — from initial marketing and acquisition through long-term membership and ownership. The discussion will highlight the role of exchange and membership servicing in delivering meaningful fulfillment experiences that reinforce perceived quality and strengthen the overall value proposition for owners.
2:00 pm-3:00 pm
Coffee Break
Sponsored by Trinity Service Enterprises
2:20 pm-2:35 pm
Express Talk: Brand Management: AI, Communications, Internal Communications
Hilton Grand Vacations (HGV) is transforming the way its global workforce connects by launching a modern intranet and integrating AI tools designed to simplify work, personalize information, and elevate the employee experience across every location. In this session, HGV reveals how they’re building a digital workplace that keeps pace with evolving expectations, while strengthening clarity, culture, and connection.
2:40 pm-2:55 pm
Express Talk: Why Use an Outside Vendor for Housekeeping Services at Timeshare Properties
The Service Companies will be discussing why outsourcing housekeeping for timeshare properties improves operational efficiency, reduces labor costs, and ensures consistent service quality through trained professionals. It allows management to focus on guest experience and core business functions while benefiting from scalable staffing, better compliance, and access to modern cleaning standards and technologies, ultimately enhancing owner and guest satisfaction.
3:30 pm-5:00 pm
Kick Off General Session with Keynote Speaker: Tyler Gillum, Head Coach of the Savannah Bananas
Sponsored by RCI and Travel+ Leisure Co.
5:00 pm-5:30 pm
Mix & Mingle Reception
6:30 pm-9:30 pm
7:30 am-5:00 pm
Registration
Sponsored by Accelerated Assets
7:30 am-5:00 pm
VIP Registration
Sponsored by FNTC
8:00 am-9:00 am
Breakfast in All Attendee Lounge
8:00 am-5:00 pm
All Attendee Lounge
8:00 am-5:00 pm
Sponsor Meeting Rooms
8:00 am-5:00 pm
ARDA VIP Lounge
Sponsored by First American Title Insurance
8:00 am-5:00 pm
Interval International Lounge
8:00 am-5:00 pm
RCI Lounge
8:15 am-10:00 am
General Session Breakfast: Lattes with Leaders: Technology Edition: Breakfast 8:15-8:45, session following
The timeshare industry is evolving rapidly driven by digital guest expectations, data intelligence, AI-powered marketing, owner engagement platforms, and integrated property technologies. This general session brings together CTOs and other Technology Leaders from across the vacation ownership ecosystem to share how they are modernizing operations, elevating the owner experience, and future-proofing their organizations.
Sponsored by BakerHostetler LLP
10:00 am-11:00 am
Coffee Break
Sponsored by Trinity Service Enterprises
10:00 am-3:00 pm
AI Doodle Caricatures
Sponsored by ONE
10:00 am-3:00 pm
ProPics Headshot Studio
Sponsored by Western Alliance Bank
10:15 am-10:40 am
Conversation Starter: Beyond the Survey: Turning Feedback Into Impact
Join us for a dynamic, hands-on session where we’ll go beyond numbers and scores to uncover how genuine engagement shapes everyday experiences and business results. Through lively discussions and interactive activities, you’ll discover the true impact of culture, feedback, communication, and action in your workplace. Bring your ideas, your questions, and your curiosity — let’s unlock practical ways to create a thriving environment together! Perfect for anyone eager to make engagement real, not just a buzzword.
10:15 am-11:00 am
Power Session Labor Relations Awareness: Protecting the Core of a Resort’s Business:
Hospitality and hotel services workers unions are seeking to grow their membership nationwide, particularly in markets where they do not have an established presence, using sophisticated digital marketing tactics. Union organizing can lead to a loss of asset value, significant cost increases, and restrictions on service levels which in most cases cannot be reversed. Our conversation will describe the trends that we see nationwide, and outline the cutting-edge tactics, strategies, and policies that the best hospitality companies and their staff implement to counter a union’s next-gen organizing methods
Sponsored by Fidelity National Timeshare
10:30 am-12:30 pm
ARDA Board of Directors Meeting (closed meeting)
Sponsored by Cresta
10:45 am-11:10 am
Conversation Starter: Travel & AI: What Matters for The Timeshare Consumer Today?
Timeshare consumers are evolving, with rising expectations for flexibility, personalization, and seamless experiences. At the same time, AI is reshaping how travelers search, evaluate, and choose their vacations. In this session, we will share our latest insights on these shifts, what is changing in behavior and decision-making, and what timeshare players must prioritize to stay competitive
11:15 am-11:40 am
Conversation Starter: AI Powered Owner Experience: From Transactions to Relationships
Vacation ownership is built on belonging, but the post-sale experience is often reactive. This session explores how AI transforms owner engagement from generic touchpoints into personalized, proactive relationships. We will discuss how anticipating travel patterns and resolving service needs proactively can drive deeper loyalty, increase maintenance fee compliance, and maximize lifetime value in a high-touch industry.
11:15 am-12:00 pm
Power Session: Technology Innovations at the Resort & Corporate Level:
In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, operational efficiencies through technology have become critical. This session will explore innovative solutions and provide insight into how these technologies not only improve efficiencies on the back end and reduce costs, but also elevate owner experience and satisfaction
Sponsored by Fidelity National Timeshare
11:45 am-12:00 pm
Express Talk: Legacy Resorts: From Liability to Lever
Aging owner base and rising defaults, Inventory re-acquisition strategy, When to reinvest vs reposition vs exit, Aligning HOA, Developer and brand incentives.
12:00 pm-1:00 pm
All Attendee Lunch
Sponsored by The Service Companies
12:00 pm-1:30 pm
Luncheon with Speaker Molly Bloom, International Poker Entrepreneur, Best-Selling Author and Inspiration Behind the Memoir and Major Motion Picture Molly’s Game
Sponsored by Westgate Resorts
1:15 pm-1:30 pm
Express Talk: Immersive Experiences Designed to Sell
A session on how immersive experiences build emotional connection, eliminate sales friction and drive higher conversion rates.
1:30 pm-1:55 pm
Conversation Starter: Best Practices for Working with (and Serving on) HOA Boards
1:30 pm-2:10 pm
Power Session: Wall Street and Beyond: What Does the Street Think About Timeshare?
How does the investment community view the timeshare and vacation ownership sector? In an environment shaped by volatility, consumer spending trends, real estate dynamics, and evolving travel demand, understanding “the Street’s” perspective has never been more important. From sales velocity and VPG trends to receivables performance, inventory strategies, and capital allocation, this session will unpack the metrics that matter most to investors
Sponsored by Fidelity National Timeshare
1:30 pm-3:00 pm
HR Council (Closed meeting)
2:00 pm-2:15 pm
Express Talk: Stop Training the Wrong Problem, Before You Build the Course, Diagnose the Problem
Too often, training is treated as the default solution—without fully understanding the problem it’s meant to solve. This session challenges that mindset by focusing on the critical step that comes before course design: diagnosis. Learn how to identify whether a performance gap is truly a skills issue—or the result of process breakdowns, unclear expectations, or organizational barriers.
2:00 pm-3:00 pm
Coffee Break
Sponsored by Trinity Service Enterprises
2:00 pm-3:00 pm
Resort Operations Forum
2:15 pm-2:55 pm
Power Session Changing the Perception of Timeshare Through Digital Marketing:
The timeshare industry has evolved—but public perception hasn’t always kept pace. In today’s digital-first world, we have a powerful opportunity to reshape the narrative, build trust, and connect with a new generation of vacationers through strategic, transparent, and data-driven marketing. This session will explore how to leverage digital marketing to modernize and strengthen consumer confidence.
Sponsored by Fidelity National Timeshare
2:30 pm-2:55 pm
Conversation Starter: Repositioning for Relevance: Real World Turnaround Case Studies
Repositioning a legacy resort property requires more than upgrades — it demands a fundamental shift in vision, financial strategy, and stakeholder alignment. In this interactive conversation, Jeff and Alex will walk through real-world repositioning case studies for Mountainside at Stowe, Bay Club Resort and Hiawatha Manor. Through candid discussion, they’ll explore what triggered the need for change, the financial and operational challenges faced, how stakeholder alignment was achieved, and the measurable outcomes that followed. Attendees will gain practical insight into navigating aging infrastructure, capital constraints, board dynamics, and market repositioning.
3:00 pm-3:25 pm
Conversation Starter: Who Can You Believe? Making Sense of AI and the Job Market
Can you believe the CEO who says AI won’t take jobs, then cuts a thousand? Can you believe the headline that says AI failed, while the earnings say it worked? Can you believe job market data when it’s quietly revised after the fact? Pete Newsome, staffing company founder and host of Cornering The Job Market, asks the only honest question left: who can you actually believe?
3:30 pm-3:45 pm
Express Talk: How Resort Operations Can Rebuild Trust in Timeshare
Rebuilding trust in timeshare involves resort operations teams to consistently deliver exceptional service, maintain transparency, and actively address guest concerns. By focusing on clear communication, showing the value of maintenance fees, and creating memorable guest experiences, teams can foster stronger relationships with owners and guests. Additionally, implementing feedback mechanisms and showcasing genuine commitment to improvement helps demonstrate dedication to both quality and accountability. Over time, these efforts contribute to restoring confidence and promoting positive perceptions across the industry.
4:00 pm-5:00 pm
Today, Tomorrow and Yesterday: The Timeshare Owner and What’s Driving Them
The timeshare consumer is not one-size-fits-all. From legacy owners who value tradition and consistency, to today’s experience-driven families, to tomorrow’s digitally native travelers, understanding what motivates each generation is critical to long-term growth. This session will explore how buyer behavior, travel preferences, financial priorities, and brand expectations are evolving across generational segments. This session will examine the mindset of established owners, the shifting expectations of Gen X and Millennials, and the emerging influence of Gen Z—unpacking what drives tour attendance, purchase decisions, upgrade behavior, and long-term loyalty
Sponsored by Interval International and Marriott Vacations Worldwide
5:00 pm-5:45 pm
WIN Reception: Open to all attendees
7:30 am-2:00 pm
Registration
Sponsored by Accelerated Assets
7:30 am-2:00 pm
VIP Registration
Sponsored by FNTC
8:00 am-5:00 pm
Sponsor Meeting Rooms
8:00 am-5:00 pm
ARDA VIP Lounge
Sponsored by First American Title Insurance
8:00 am-5:00 pm
Interval International Lounge
8:00 am-2:00 pm
RCI Lounge
8:00 am-9:00 am
Club 100 Closing Breakfast
Sponsored by Eck, Conley & Richardson PLLC
8:00 am-2:00 pm
All Attendee Lounge
9:00 am-10:00 am
General Session: Lattes with Leaders: International Edition
Gain vital insights into Mexico and the Caribbeans tourism industry from prominent executives in the vacation ownership industry who will discuss the broad appeal the regions have to offer to consumers from around the world. Learn how this segment has become a driving force for the region, and the elements that make these resorts successful.
Sponsored by Holiday Inn Club Vacations
10:00 am-11:00 am
Legislative Committee
10:00 am-11:30 am
Finance & Accounting Committee
10:15 am-11:00 am
Power Session: Maximizing Your Brand to Drive Unique Experiences
In a crowded marketplace, experiences—not just products—are what set brands apart. This session explores how organizations can leverage the power of their brand to create distinctive, memorable experiences that resonate deeply with customers and foster long-term loyalty.
Sponsored by Liberty Bank
11:15 am-12:00 pm
Power Session: What Today’s Owners are Enjoying: Experiences, Activities, Food & Beverage Trends
Today’s travelers are seeking more than just a place to stay — they’re looking for experiences. From destination-driven dining and craft beverages to hands-on workshops, outdoor adventures, and wellness-focused programming, food, beverage, and activities have become central to the timeshare consumers stay at a property. This session explores the latest trends shaping guest preferences. What culinary concepts are driving bookings? Which on-property and off-property activities are generating the most engagement and revenue? And how are generational shifts influencing expectations around authenticity, sustainability, and social experiences?
Sponsored by Liberty Bank
12:00 pm-1:30 pm
General Session Luncheon with Keynote Speaker: Justin Wren
Humanitarian, MMA Fighter, Author and Mental Health Advocate
Sponsored by Hilton Grand Vacations
12:30 pm-1:30 pm
State Regulators and Legislative Luncheon (by invitation)
Sponsored by Greenspoon Marder LLP
1:30 pm-2:15 pm
Power Session: Prepare to Win: The Digital Advantage of Intelligent Hospitality
In today’s fast-evolving landscape, digital excellence is no longer optional—it’s a competitive necessity. This session will explore how hospitality brands can harness digital tools, data, and emerging technologies to drive growth, elevate guest experiences, and outperform the competition.
Sponsored by Liberty Bank
1:30 pm-2:30 pm
Integrated Communications Council (closed meeting)
2:30 pm-3:30 pm
GATE Members Meeting (closed meeting)
5:00 pm-5:45 pm
Awards Finalist Reception
Open to Awards Finalists
6:00 pm-7:30 pm
Awards Ceremony
Assigned seating for all nominees and Awards sponsors. Open seating available for general conference attendees
7:30 pm-9:30 pm
Awards Celebration
Open to all
Beacon
Signature
