Vacation Resorts International is the biggest independently owned end-to-end management provider in North America. Offering condo-like residential vacations to travelers and management services to companies, VRI is an important part of the timeshare industry. Let’s explore what makes Vacation Resorts International special and why people trust the VRI brand.
About VRI
Vacation Resorts International, AKA VRI, has provided professional management to timeshare resorts for over three decades. The goal of their management is to innovate the timeshare industry and enhance vacation experiences. Therefore, by focusing on cost efficiency and exemplary service, VRI has assisted many resorts in becoming highly sought-after properties. They have a motto of “Perfecting the Art of Hospitality,” so VRI strives to provide the best customer service through one-on-one communications with guests. The Lake Forest, California-based company provides financial services, bookkeeping, reservations, and risk management to businesses.
Capital Vacations Acquires VRI Americas
In May 2022, VRI was acquired by Capital Vacations, which was a very exciting announcement in the world of vacation ownership! For owners of VRI, this means that there is a new collection of destinations and resorts to choose from. In addition, six resorts, including those in Marble Hill, Maui, Palm Desert, and Branson, became available to Capital Vacations owners. More flexibility and options for owners are at the forefront of this change, as now there is better access to more vacations in prime destinations. As the companies have come together, the services have been unified, providing a seamless experience for all. This acquisition is a big win for timeshare owners and promises a bright future for those who value greater options and want to make the most of their ownership.
Vacation Resorts International Properties
Following Capital Vacation’s acquisition of Vacation Resorts International, the company now oversees more than 200 timeshare resorts nationwide, offering VRI’s renowned service. You can expect the finest amenities and accommodations at these resorts. With resorts from Hawaii to New York and everywhere in between, there is somewhere for everyone’s vacation preferences. These resorts’ villas feature the comforts of home, such as full kitchens, in-unit laundry, separate living and dining areas, and more. Depending on the resort, you can also find amenities like heated pools, fitness centers, on-site restaurants, and planned activities.
If you want to spend a week in a tropical paradise, head to VRI’s Sweetwater at Waikiki resort. A week at this Honolulu resort will be full of golden beaches, Hawaiian traditions, hiking, and mai tais. For a mountain retreat, head to Aspen at Streamside and experience the adventures the Rockies have to offer. Vail is an incredible city to visit year-round, but shines in winter as America’s most-visited ski resort. For a vacation filled with magic, VRI’s Vacation Villas at Fantasy World is the perfect spot for you. This resort is just three miles from Orlando’s Walt Disney World, so an unforgettable family experience is just a short shuttle ride away.
VRI Ownership Perks
There are benefits to owning a Vacation Resorts International (Capital Vacations) timeshare, and VRI wants to make ownership special. VRI offers an internal vacation exchange through its program, Trading Places. Owners are also given Resorts-to-Ports cruise options, as well as exclusive discounts on rental reservations. Plus, VRI owners have access to external vacation exchange networks.
Trading Places International and Classic
VRI gives owners a free exchange platform known as Trading Places Classic. As a member, you can enjoy access to hundreds of resorts in the most sought-after destinations.
How Does Trading Places Classic Work?
Getting started is simple. Once you own a VRI (Capital Vacations) managed timeshare week, you’re automatically eligible to use the Trading Places Classic exchange network—no resale restrictions, no extra hoops to jump through. To make an exchange, deposit your timeshare week as early as possible—up to 24 months in advance—to unlock the best selection of alternate destinations and dates. The earlier you deposit, the more opportunities you’ll have to find your ideal getaway, and you’ll be given higher priority when making requests.
Browse the Trading Places online directory to explore all available resorts and see what’s open for exchange. When you’ve found your dream vacation spot, just contact the Trading Places Classic team to submit your exchange request. You can typically swap for a timeshare unit of a similar size and season as your home week, but upgrades are also available for a small additional fee.
All of these perks, alongside the ability to share your vacation with friends or family through free Guest Certificates, make VRI’s internal exchange system flexible and easy to use for every type of owner.
Exchange on RCI
Vacation Resorts International (Capital Vacations) allows owners to become members of the vacation exchange platform, RCI. The benefits of vacation exchange on this trading network are insurmountable. With vacation exchange, VRI owners can travel the world with ease! Whether you want to swap your home resort week for a new destination through Trading Places or branch out to thousands of additional options with RCI, you have flexibility at your fingertips. Simply put, you can trade your timeshare for stays at hundreds of resorts—just choose your dream spot and start packing. This means more adventures, more memories, and a whole world of vacation possibilities waiting for you every year.
How to Make an Exchange Request with VRI
Owning a timeshare managed by Vacation Resorts International unlocks a world of travel options, thanks to their flexible exchange process. Here’s how you can make the most of your ownership and swap your vacation week for a new destination:
1. Become a VRI Owner
Start by securing ownership at a VRI-managed resort. Once you’re an owner, you can access the internal exchange networks and enjoy more ways to travel.
2. Deposit Your Week
To initiate an exchange, you’ll need to deposit your timeshare week. Planning ahead pays off—VRI owners can deposit their week for exchange up to 24 months before their desired travel dates. The sooner you deposit, the better your chances of accessing a wide variety of destinations and securing your preferred exchange. Early deposits also increase your priority within the exchange system, giving you the first pick of available weeks. This flexibility lets you get the most out of your timeshare, whether you’re eyeing a summer escape or want to snag a coveted holiday week.
3. Explore Your Options
Check out the online directory of participating VRI resorts. You’ll find a wide array of locations, from mountains to beaches and everything in between, so you can match your vacation style for your upcoming trip.
4. Submit an Exchange Request
Ready to swap? Contact VRI’s exchange team directly—usually by phone—to request your preferred destination and travel dates. You’ll be able to request a comparable unit (same size and season as your ownership week), but exchange upgrades are available for an added fee if you’re looking for something extra special.
This streamlined process makes planning your next getaway straightforward, with plenty of flexibility and support along the way.
How to Browse Exchange Destinations and Resorts
Exploring your vacation options with VRI (Capital Vacations) is a breeze. Owners can log into the exchange platform’s online directory to view a full list of available destinations and participating timeshare resorts. This easy-to-use tool lets you filter by location, dates, or amenities, so you can discover resorts that fit your dream getaway—whether that’s a beachfront retreat, a mountain lodge, or something in between. From coast to coast, the exchange directory showcases hundreds of incredible options, making it simple to find your perfect next adventure or plan a memorable trip for family and friends.
Resale Flexibility for VRI Owners
One of the standout advantages for VRI timeshare owners is the lack of resale restrictions when it comes to participating in their exchange program. Unlike some vacation clubs that limit benefits or access for resale buyers, VRI lets owners—whether they purchased directly from the developer or on the resale market—enjoy full exchange privileges. This open approach means you can confidently exchange your timeshare and take advantage of VRI’s network, no matter how you acquired your ownership.
Upgrading Your Exchange: Unit Size and Season Options
When exchanging your VRI timeshare, you’re not limited to swapping for the same type of unit or travel season. If you’ve been eyeing a larger villa or want to try a peak travel week, upgrades are typically available. Keep in mind, though, that these upgrades usually come with an added fee—think of it as a way to spoil yourself with a little more space or a prime travel date.
Costs for upgrades can vary based on the unit size or season you select, and availability may differ depending on the resort and exchange platform (such as Trading Places or RCI). Before confirming your exchange, be sure to ask about upgrade rates and options. This way, you’ll know exactly what to expect and can plan your next getaway with all the comforts—and calendar perks—you desire.
How Do VRI Exchange Fees Stack Up?
One of the standout advantages of VRI ownership is the affordability of its exchange fees. Compared to many other major vacation ownership brands, VRI exchange fees tend to be on the lower end, making it easier for owners to maximize their vacation options without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking to visit top destinations across the country or trade your week for a completely new experience, you’ll find that VRI keeps costs competitive.
Not only is the process easy to navigate, but VRI’s approach means you won’t be hit with the higher exchange rates that are common with larger companies in the industry, such as RCI or Interval International. This cost-effective structure allows owners to spend less on fees and more on what really matters—enjoying memorable vacations with family and friends.
How Much Do Vacation Resorts International (Now Capital Vacations) Timeshares Cost?
The cost of a VRI timeshare depends on where you purchase it from. Of course, shopping the timeshare resale market gives you the possibility of saving hundreds or thousands of dollars. Owning a timeshare can be a more cost-effective way to vacation than buying hotel rooms yearly.
If you’re interested in a Vacation Resorts International (Capital Vacations) timeshare, please contact us! Our team of licensed real estate agents will assist you in getting the best price. We can help you take the timeshare vacation of your dreams, so contact us at (407) 465-5188 or at [email protected] to begin!
