Trying for WSJ..advice please!

[jramat]

Hi...we're thinking of trading into WSJ for 2009. We know it's tough but we're somewhat flexible for times. We must avoid June-August (2 new grandbabies coming in July!!) and we don't want to see any hurricanes, so August-October is probably out as well. So...maybe early in the year. We notice there are two areas, which is better? Just two of us, adults, late 50's and want to hang at beach and pools. Feel free to fire away with comments and advice. Thanks as usual to all the TUG friends!!

John and Leslie

 

[Pedro]

I didn't get it clear whether you are an SVO owner or not. Trading into WSJ is not easy, and you should start trying to get a reservation exactly 8 months out which is when the reservation window opens for startwood owners. It is better to have a wide range of dates since you never know which weeks will open up. We called every week last year looking for 3-br pool villa, and it took a couple of months of trying before we found something available 8 months out.

 

[jramat]

Thanks...and yes, we are Starwoods owners. We plan to start calling soon. We were able to get Harborside relatively quickly two years ago so maybe we'll get lucky at WSJ. We'll take a studio if that's what works.

 

[LisaRex]

You have a few things working in your favor. One is that the economy is in the toilet. Second is that WSJ recently built another phase and I don't think it's sold out yet.

I think if you call at 8 months out at 9am EST/EDT, you have a good chance of getting what you want. Last year I was able to snag a 2 bdrm loft during platinum plus season the first time I tried by doing that. Don't forget to pursue for Friday or Sunday check-ins, too.

Good luck!!