Timeshare first made its entry into India a little over thirty years ago, bringing in the never-before concept of long-term vacation ownership. Initial formats were just a roof over your head, in a holiday setting – the attraction those days was a one-time purchase that gave you free holidays, year after year after year.

The timeshare space is fast changing colour with a spectrum of offeringsToday, there’s more to it than a long term calendar. The timeshare space is fast changing colour with a spectrum of offerings – exotic locations, modern amenities, theme cuisines and professional sport and fitness gurus as holiday evangelists. You even have locations that offer golf and extreme sport as part of the package.

And while the timeshare panorama has indeed expanded, the holiday seeker has for long drawn a blank in terms of guidance, tips, advice and maybe assistance in choosing the right kind of long-term holiday option.

At another level, promoters of vacation ownerships also felt the need for constructive inputs in terms of industry growth, consumer feedback and an interactive platform. A platform that could also lobby for them within influencer and government circles.

That in essence was the emerging need behind the inception of AIRDA

Getting together for better standards

In 1997, a visionary group of resort developers and RCI inked a blueprint for an independent body – an association with a purpose and an agenda – keeping in mind the nascent profile of timeshare in the country and the constructive role that could be played by developers to grow the industry. Importantly, to work hand-in-hand with both promoters and consumers. This was how the foundation was laid for the All India Resort Development Association (AIRDA).

AIRDA’s key member segments include timeshare developers, exchange companies, marketers and other participant stakeholders. In addition to playing catalyst for the vacation ownership industry, AIRDA also assumes the role of an ombudsman - ensuring that the promoter-consumer relationship is ethical, fair and value-based.

Promoter members commit to adopt and abide by a code of ethics that reflect fair practices and set the stage for strong, sustainable and profitable businesses. The code also seeks to protect that most important link in the value chain - customers.