Have you ever approached your local travel agent with a request for information on an out of ordinary destination? Have you seen his or her eyes glaze over? You may be in need of a niche travel specialist, one who puts all of her energies and study on one part of world.

This is a situation that happens often when people are seeking help in planning travel to Australia. The map of Australia looks quite similar to map of United States. But, do you know that a huge percentage of this continent's population lives on east, southern and west coasts? 8,000,000 of Australia's 20,000,000 people reside in Sydney. The center and most of northern portions of country are barren and devoid of almost all human habitation.

Going Onsite

Now that you have a location selected, visit timeshare resorts in area. Skip sales presentations. In fact, avoid resorts that are still in their initial selling phase. Their prices are inflated and there are too many restrictions on resales. You'll do better at places that are 100% sold out and owner owned. Walk around resort, including common areas. Look for bulletin boards showing owner-to-owner resales. Ask for copies of their newsletter. Does resort have a Web site?

Talk to other owners. How do they like place? What is yearly maintenance fee? Is board of directors doing a good job? If you can, attend a resort get-together or a board of directors meeting.

Ask which exchange companies they use, including any independent companies in addition to Interval International (II) or Resort Condominiums International (RCI). Which weeks are most popular? Often you can buy bargain off-season weeks that still trade well. In most cases, larger two-bedroom units are more popular for exchanges.