Recently, we’ve seen an uptick in bookings with check-ins scheduled within 30 days or less. Likely a result of latent pandemic uncertainty combined with more flexible work-from-anywhere situations has given rise to a trend called “Impulse Travel.” That’s why we just launched a new page called Last Resort. Last Resort celebrates (and yes, organizes) all our last minute stays – all in one place. 

For Travelers

The pandemic has changed the way people work, live and – yes – travel. The onset of the pandemic triggered mass cancellations resulting in huge losses for travelers and agencies alike. Companies scrambled to figure out the most fair ways to handle disputes (and massive losses) as travelers cancelled due to mandates, quarantines and illnesses. In the subsequent years – even as mandates were lifted – COVID cases and regional spikes curtailed travel plans and uncertainty set in. Today, many insist on free-cancellation and are still afraid to book non-cancelable travel too far out. Timeshare rental inventory, like that found on KOALA, can often be non-cancelable as the owner has their own costs to consider. That means, there is always some very high quality inventory still available on the platform within 90 days and travelers can scoop it up often for less than a hotel or Airbnb. 

For Timeshare Owners

Although some timeshare companies have loosened restrictions since the pandemic, they are usually not as flexible with cancellations as their owners would like them to be. That means once a deadline passes, that owner can no longer change or cancel their reservation. If it is not used, they risk loss of their weeks or points. Owners are responsible to pay maintenance fees associated with that reservation – even if they don’t use it – and that can be a heavy burden to bear. Last Resort offers a place where travelers are looking for great deals on last minute stays – which means owners can get extra visibility on their listings. We will also feature the best deals in our Last Resort bi-weekly newsletter.  

Are you a timeshare owner with a listing on KOALA? Reach out to us here to find out how to get your listings featured in the Last Resort newsletter!