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Frequently Asked Questions
Condominium Requests and Reservations
How do condominium weeks become available?
Our inventory of rental weeks comes from timeshare owners. We have no control over which resorts, destinations or dates are going to be relinquished by an owner. There is no way for us to know when a particular resort property or particular date will open up and become available to confirm. We use a network of brokers that keeps track of all inventory in particular areas and resorts. As inventory becomes available, we confirm your request.
How do I get started?
If you have a destination and travel date in mind, give us a call and we'll do a search for you. You can also use our weekly condominium search tool and check out our Hot Picks and Instant Access email specials. The condominium directory is a good tool for destination ideas.
Should I be flexible with my travel date?
It is our goal to confirm the vacation you desire. If you have two or three vacation dates open to you, we'll have more opportunities to match your travel request.
What if the destination I request is not available when I call?
Place a formal request and we'll do the rest. There's no need to call again - we'll continue to search for a resort week to match your request. Since we do not guarantee that a specific week or destination will be available, we recommend that you place your request as far in advance as possible.
What is the check-in and check-out day?
The days are established by the resort and may vary. Most are on Friday, Saturday or Sunday.
What if I cannot arrive on the check-in date?
If you need to check-in later than the arrival date, contact the resort directly to make arrangements. Keep in mind should you arrange a check-in other than normally scheduled, the check-out day always remains the same.
Are there penalties for checking in late or checking out early?
No, but you must contact the resort directly if you will be arriving at a time or date other than the time and date indicated on your confirmation. When leaving your resort, just follow the check-out procedures provided by the resort.
How do I learn about special offers?
Check out the Email Specials page on this website which has links to our Hot Picks and Instant Access weeks. The Hot Picks list is usually updated daily and the Instant Access list is updated every Tuesday. Please call an agent to book any of these special deals. You can subscribe to our mailing list to receive these lists by email.
What are Hot Picks weeks?
They are condominium and cabin weeks at popular resorts
What are Instant Access weeks
They are deeply discounted condominium weeks with check-ins of less than 45 days out for only $299. From time to time, price may vary based on season, size and location.
How can I get more information about the places I'd like to visit?
Go to www.tourismbureaus.com for information from the experts. Contact your preferred resort's local tourism office and request any appropriate information, free!
Do I need advance notice when making a reservation?
Advance reservations are required and must be made through Preferred Access. You may request reservations as much as 52 weeks or as little as 3 days prior to check-in.
When is the best time to book my trip?
Request early. Peak seasons and holidays are always in high demand.
Will I receive a confirmation?
Once your reservations are booked you'll receive a written confirmation. Only the person named on the confirmation may occupy the accommodations.
When should I book airline travel?
We recommend that you confirm you accommodatins first. Please be careful when purchasing penalty-type airline tickets to a requested destination before your vacation request is confirmed. If you decide to do so, please make alternate hotel reservations that you will be happy with for your requested dates. We cannot be held responsible if you purchase a nonrefundable or other penalty-type ticket to a destination before your request for a condominium is confirmed.
How can I be sure that the vacation I reserve with Preferred Access will be available when I arrive?
Upon completion of the reservation process, we send you written confirmation of your vacation. 48 hours before you travel, we suggest you contact the resort directly if you have questions about check-in procedures or late arrivals. We also provide an emergency number in the unlikely event you need our assistance while traveling.
Are there any tips that will help make my vacation search more successful?
Yes. Although the vacation opportunities are expansive, you can increase your chance of confirming your vacation by remaining flexible and perhaps considering a trip in the off-season or visiting a lesser-known destination that offers a similar vacation experience. If you choose to travel to highly demanded areas during popular dates (i.e. beach areas for summer, holiday weeks), plan your vacation as far in advance as possible. New vacation opportunities will become available frequently, so the more often you search, the more likely it is that you will find the perfect vacation. You may also submit a special request for our agents.
Can you book airfare, cruises, hotels and car rentals for me?
No, members book airfare, cruises, hotels and car rentals themselves via this website.
Condominium Accommodations
What amenities and furnishings will my condominium have?
- Studio units generally have some type of cooking facilities, with living area and sleeping accommodations combined. The maximum occupancy is for two guests unless stated.
- One-bedroom units generally have full kitchens, living area with a convertible sofa, and a separate bedroom with private bathroom. The maximum occupancy is for four guests unless stated.
- Two-bedroom units generally have full kitchens, living area with a convertible sofa, two separate bedrooms and one or two bathrooms. The maximum occupancy is for six guests unless stated.
What size unit should I request for my family?
Request a unit that will accommodate the sleeping requirements appropriate to your family. Resorts often have a larger inventory of smaller units so if you are willing to accept any unit that will accommodate the number of people traveling, regardless of the size of the unit, you'll increase your opportunities to confirm your request.
When will my room be assigned?
Rooms are randomly assigned by the resort 48 hours before check-in. Preferred Access does not guarantee any room assignments and is unable to take special requests in regards to room placement or unit views.
I am unable to climb stairs. Will the resort be able to accommodate my family?
Some resorts may require steps to reach your unit and may not have elevators. If you have an ailment or handicap that would prevent you from occupying a unit with steps, please advise the reservationist before you pay for your reservation. Preferred Access cannot be held responsible for information given after your reservation has been made.
How many guest may I bring?
The sleeping and occupancy limits may not be exceeded. You may be refused usage or charged additional fees if your party exceeds the stated limits on your confirmation.
Is daily maid service provided?
Most resorts don't provide daily maid service. Some offer it every other day or weekly at no additional charge. Other resorts will provide maid service for a nominal fee.
Are pets allowed?
Sorry most condominiums don't allow pets.
What is the quality of a condominium resort?
Each condominium property is independent and has its own distinguishing features. All of the properties Preferred Access offers to its members have been evaluated for amenities, location and value.
Payments and Cancellations
When do I pay for my rental? All reservations must be prepaid when confirmed. We will charge your credit card the full amount of the fee upon confirming your reservation. At the time of booking extra fees (if any) will be explained as well as any service fees charged by the resorts.
Do we receive a discount if we don't stay a full week?
No, you pay the same for one day or the full week.
What if we have to cancel our trip?
Once your trip is confirmed, it is final and nonrefundable. However you may purchase trip cancellation insurance at the time of booking.
Is it really necessary to purchase travel insurance? No, but insurance protects you from a wide array of unexpected events, such as unpredictable weather, medical and family emergencies. These unfortunate events can force you to cancel or interrupt your vacation stay, causing you to forfeit your travel investment.
Is it safe to provide my personal information when making reservations through your website?
Yes. Our data encryption ensures that the information provided here is protected and secure. If you would prefer to have a customer service representative complete your request, please give us a call.
Cabin Reservations and Accommodations
What types of cabin/cottage accommodations are available to me through Preferred Access?
The types of cabins or cottages vary from resort to resort. Generally, the cabins or cottages are one-bedroom/one-bath with a fully equipped kitchen. Most units will have a sofa bed (or futon) to accommodate up to four guests. In addition, some cabins include a sleeping loft allowing enough space for two additional children. Note sleeping lofts have low ceilings and do not work for adults.
Will I need to bring my own bedding and/or towels?
No, bedding and towels are provided by the resort.
Are pets allowed in any of the cabin/cottage rentals?
Some locations offer units that are pet-friendly. An additional fee and/or cleaning deposit may be required. Please let us know if you're interested in traveling with your pet so that we may check for a pet unit. Please note that unless a pet unit is confirmed, you may not bring your pet with you.
Which day do the cabin/cottage weeks begin on?
Most of our weekly rentals begin on Friday.
What if I can't stay the entire week?
Cabin/cottage pricing is based on a weekly rental. If you are unable to use your entire cabin/cottage week, you may check-in late or check-out early. Please let us know when you make your reservation if you will be using less than the full week. This allows us to notify the resort so they are aware of any late arrival or early departure. However, the weekly price remains the same.
Other than the weekly rate, what other fees should I expect?
None, your reservation is prepaid. However, some resorts will require a cash or credit card security deposit when you arrive. The amount and terms of the deposit varies depending on the resort. Generally, the deposit is returned after you check out of the unit as long as there is no damage to the unit.
Will I be required to pay a cleaning fee?
No, the cleaning fee, if any, has already been paid. If you are asked for a cleaning fee notify our office immediately.
Do I need to have my confirmation with me at check in?
Yes, a confirmation is required and must be presented to the campground when you arrive.
I am unable to keep my reservation, can I cancel my week?
Once your reservation is confirmed, it is non-refundable and may not be canceled or changed. We recommended you add travel insurance at the time of your booking to cover unforeseen trip interruptions. Travel insurance doesn't cover change of mind or things within your control. To view the travel insurance terms and conditions, please click here.
Membership
Do I have to be a member to use Preferred Access?
Yes, benefits are only available to members in good standing.
May I check for availability if my membership has expired?
No, your membership must be current to request or book travel. In addition, your membership must be in good standing throughout your travel dates.
What if I need assistance or have questions?
Our travel agents are available at 800-281-4977. Our hours of operation are 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Friday Pacific Time and 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM Saturday. The office is closed on Sundays and holidays. Voice mail is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All messages are responded to promptly at the opening of the next business day. Our email address is MemberServices@Preferred-Access.com.
Will the benefits ever change?
All benefits are subject to change without notice and are subject to the terms and conditions of individual suppliers.
