When it comes to vacation ownership and timeshare exchange, the two most associated names are RCI (Resort Condominiums International) and Wyndham. They are giants within the vacation industry, with unique services available to millions of holidaymakers around the globe. However, the confusing bit is the relationship that exists between these two entities. Are they really the same thing or running the same company with overlapping services? This article answers these questions, giving a complete understanding of RCI and Wyndham: how they are related and where their separate benefits lie for the timeshare owner.
Understanding Wyndham Vacation Ownership Cancellation Policy
To understand the link between RCI and Wyndham, we first need to delve into the history of both companies. RCI was established in 1974 as a form of timeshare exchange in which timeshare owners could trade vacation times out of their property for similarly rated accommodation at other resorts worldwide.
From its inception, RCI has established the most far-reaching timeshare exchange network, with over 4,300 affiliated resorts in 110 countries across the globe. On the other hand, Wyndham is a major player in the hospitality industry, particularly in the timeshare business. Founded in 1981, Wyndham has been growing its exposure and offering a huge portfolio of resorts under different brands.
The company grew through acquisitions, and in 1996, Wyndham procured RCI and placed it under the umbrella of Wyndham Destinations, today known as Travel + Leisure Co. This was the landmark acquisition in the burgeoning relationship between RCI and Wyndham, and since then both companies began to collaboratively work on the interests of providing enriched vacation experiences to their respective members.
What is RCI? An Overview of Its Services
RCI is primarily a timeshare exchange company. It allows customers to trade their assigned weeks with other affiliated resorts. The allure of RCI depends on its flexibility and the huge network of resorts, which aids its members to visit an enormous range of holiday destinations across the globe.
- Timeshare Exchange: Members deposit their timeshare weeks within the RCI network and exchange them with other affiliated resorts.
- RCI Points: A more flexible way for members to plan their vacations, as they can either go for short stays or upgrade accommodation within a network of resorts.
- RCI Platinum: This is a membership level that gets members additional discounts, priority access, and improved customer service.
RCI’s services give people the flexibility they want in vacation planning, enabling them to explore new destinations and have a wide range of options without being locked into a single resort or location.
What is Wyndham? A Look at Its Vacation Ownership
Wyndham operates mainly in the business of vacation ownership, offering various vacation properties to owners. Wyndham’s vacation ownership is based on the idea of deeded property: owners purchase a share in a resort, enabling them to vacation there annually for a set period.
- Vacation Ownership: Point-based ownership is most common, but Wyndham also offers deeded ownership; owners can visit their home resort or exchange for other properties in the Wyndham network.
- Club Wyndham: The flagship of Wyndham’s timeshare program, offering access to over 200 resorts internationally.
- Wyndham Rewards: A loyalty program where one can redeem points earned from stays for many travel rewards, including stays at Wyndham properties.
Wyndham’s model appeals to those who would like a more traditional, familiar vacation ownership experience, with the option to explore other locations under the Wyndham umbrella.
Are RCI and Wyndham Owned by the Same Company?
Yes, RCI and Wyndham are sister brands; they are both owned by the larger Travel + Leisure Co., which was formerly known as Wyndham Destinations. While they operate in timeshare exchange and vacation ownership, respectively, they really are two entirely different organizations with their own products.
Travel + Leisure Co. is the owner of the RCI and Wyndham brands but also owns a number of other brands to ensure that all complement each other while offering different pieces of the vacation experience.
How RCI and Wyndham Work Together
RCI and Wyndham serve complementary roles in benefiting the timeshare owners. Wyndham owners can trade their ownership through RCI for non-Wyndham resorts, which enables them to enjoy more vacation destinations. This partnership will provide Wyndham with the opportunities to harness RCI’s vast worldwide network to expand their vacations’ option beyond the limits that Wyndham alone offers.
- Opportunities to Exchange: The point or week owners are allowed to exchange their ownership through RCI, obtaining access to a huge number of resorts.
- Membership Integration: The majority of the ownerships under Wyndham take RCI membership as a part of the package and hence exchanging becomes further simple.
- Expanded Holiday Choices: Wyndham owners, through RCI, are not only restricted to just Wyndham properties but can explore thousands of properties around the world.
This integration really adds more value to Wyndham ownership and brings unprecedented flexibility and diversity when making holiday plans.
Differences Between RCI and Wyndham
While RCI and Wyndham are related, their services cater to different needs within the vacation industry. Understanding these differences is crucial for potential owners and existing members.
- Service Type:
- RCI focuses on timeshare exchange, offering a platform for owners to swap their vacation weeks with others.
- Wyndham specializes in vacation ownership, providing a more traditional timeshare experience with the option to exchange within its network.
- Membership:
- RCI requires a separate membership, often included in Wyndham ownership packages but available independently.
- Wyndham membership is tied to ownership, offering specific benefits within the Wyndham network.
- Flexibility:
- RCI provides greater flexibility with its points-based exchange system, allowing for shorter stays and varied destinations.
- Wyndham’s flexibility is within its network unless the owner opts to use RCI for external exchanges.
Understanding these differences helps vacationers decide which service aligns better with their vacation goals and lifestyle.
Benefits of Using RCI With Wyndham Ownership
For Wyndham owners, combining their ownership with RCI membership offers several advantages:
- More Places to Travel: With over 4,300 resorts worldwide—not just Wyndham resorts.
- More Ways to Enjoy Your Vacation: Members use RCI Points for a whole world of vacation experiences, from shorter getaways.
- More Value: Platinum members receive even greater value from their vacations with additional benefits and savings.
- Easy Planning: Integrated membership allows a simplified way to take care of vacations among more than one network.
These benefits make RCI an attractive addition for Wyndham owners looking to maximize the value and flexibility of their vacation ownership.
Common Misconceptions About RCI and Wyndham
Despite the clear relationship between RCI and Wyndham, several misconceptions persist, often leading to confusion among timeshare owners and potential buyers.
- Misconception 1: RCI and Wyndham Are the Same: While related, RCI and Wyndham are distinct entities with different primary functions—exchange services versus vacation ownership.
- Misconception 2: All Wyndham Resorts Are Available Through RCI: Not all Wyndham resorts are in the RCI exchange network, and availability can vary.
- Misconception 3: RCI Membership Is Only for Wyndham Owners: RCI membership is open to owners of any affiliated timeshare, not just Wyndham owners.
Addressing these misconceptions can help potential buyers and current owners make informed decisions about their vacation investments.
