Global Discovery Vacations, aka GDV, has been providing excellent, affordable experience packages to families and individuals worldwide since 1996. As a subsidiary of Global Connections, Inc., this vacation brand is committed to delivering top-notch customer service and incredible adventure. Global Discovery Vacations offers a wide variety of action-packed vacations for the thrill-seeker in your life, even if that thrill-seeker is you!
What is Global Discovery Vacations?
To put it simply, the Global Discovery Vacations brand is your go-to for supreme adventure experiences! Have you ever wanted to zip-line over treetops? Para-sail in the sun? Ski down powdery, snow-covered mountains? GDV has just what you need. GDV is a membership-based vacation brand. That means owning a Global Discovery Vacations property is possible.
Benefits
If you love taking adventurous vacations and need help planning them, it might be a good fit for you! This brand has a large variety of pre-planned vacations. Not to mention, they partner with tons of adventure-centric businesses to bring their owners exciting vacations every year. GDV even has an in-house travel agency to help you nail down all your nitty-gritty vacation details.
Did you know your family can use your Global Discovery Vacations membership, too? You can either take one week-long trip or split your vacation time into multiple stays.
Flexible Vacation Options
One of the standout perks of Global Discovery Vacations is the ability to personalize your travel schedule. Each membership typically includes up to six vacation weeks per year, but what if wanderlust strikes again? No problem, members have the flexibility to purchase extra weeks at a discounted rate. This way, if you’re planning a spur-of-the-moment escape or an additional family adventure, you can do so without breaking the bank.
Simply contact Global Discovery Vacations when you wish to add more weeks, and their team will walk you through the straightforward process, no hassle, just more opportunities to explore. Best of all, these additional weeks are often available at reduced rates, making that dream destination even more attainable.
On-Site Amenities
Looking for a little extra luxury during your stay? Global Discovery Vacations resorts frequently feature a fantastic range of on-site amenities designed to make every getaway memorable. You can relax on sun-kissed beaches, savor delicious meals at on-property restaurants, and catch live entertainment right at your resort, meaning the fun doesn’t stop when you leave the pool.
And let’s not forget the picturesque surroundings. Many GDV destinations sit amid breathtaking landscapes and lush gardens, offering perfect spots for photo ops or relaxing after a day of adventure. Whatever your vacation style, there’s an amenity to match, whether you crave excitement, relaxation, or a little bit of both.
Types of Accommodations
When you book with Global Discovery Vacations, you’ll find a great selection of comfortable accommodations to suit your needs. Whether you prefer cozy studios for a weekend escape or spacious one-bedroom condos for the whole crew, there’s something for every traveler. Options vary by destination, but no matter where you land, you can expect well-appointed units designed for both relaxation and adventure.
Locations
You might also love this brand if you enjoy or want to begin traveling abroad. With vacation spots in Ireland, Costa Rica, Aruba, Colorado, Kansas, Wyoming, Hawaii and even Mexico, there is definitely a cure for your wanderlust. Everyone knows that traveling is good for your health, so what are you waiting for?
How Global Discovery Vacations Works
Membership Details and How It Works
Global Discovery Vacations membership is designed with flexibility in mind, so you can craft your perfect vacation plan:
- Type of Ownership: Deeded membership, so you own your piece of adventure.
- Usage: Annual, giving you the flexibility to travel every year.
- Week & Unit: Float week and float unit—no rigid schedule, just pick the dates and location that fit your calendar.
- Unit Type: Accommodations vary based on availability and resort.
- Season: Any—travel when you want, whether you crave winter slopes or summer sun.
This flexibility means you can take one memorable week-long trip or break up your time into shorter stays, sharing the fun with family and friends.
How to Reserve Your Getaway
Booking your next adventure with Global Discovery Vacations is refreshingly straightforward. You can start making your vacation plans up to a year in advance, giving you plenty of time to dream up your ideal itinerary—whether that means zip-lining, parasailing, or hitting the slopes.
Here’s a quick rundown to keep things simple:
- Standard Reservations: Most trips can be reserved as early as 12 months out, so you’ll never have to scramble at the last minute.
- Value Weeks: For select “value” condo weeks, you’ll need to secure your spot at least 60 days before arrival, either online or through the mail.
- Peak Season: If you’re eyeing high-demand travel times, plan to put in your request at least 120 days in advance. This helps you secure those coveted dates before they’re gone.
So, with just a bit of early planning, your next thrill-packed escape is always within reach.
How Do Vacation Credits and Fees Work for Global Discovery Vacations?
Let’s break down how vacation credits and associated fees are structured when you’re part of the club. Members receive a set number of vacation credits each year, and these credits are your golden ticket to adventure.
Each trip you book, whether it’s a cozy week in a one-bedroom condo during value season or a bustling peak week getaway, requires a specific number of credits and may be subject to small processing fees. For instance, expect to pay a nominal processing fee for each 8-day, 7-night stay. Prices are adjusted depending on the time of year and the size of your accommodations.
Can You Waive Fees With Vacation Credits?
One of the perks of being a GDV member is the flexibility that comes with vacation credits, also known as Star Credits. In some cases, you can use these credits to waive specific fees associated with your bookings. This can make planning your next getaway a little easier on your wallet, just another way GDV ensures you get the most out of your adventurous membership experience!
Here’s a quick snapshot of what to expect:
- Annual Activity Fee: Members pay a yearly activity fee to keep their vacation benefits active. This fee may see increases from year to year.
- Processing Fees: Each booking typically incurs a processing fee, especially during peak seasons. For added bedrooms or peak periods, these fees are a bit higher, but you can often use extra credits to help offset these charges.
- Security Deposit: A refundable security deposit is required for each reservation. As long as there’s no damage and everything is left in tip-top shape, you’ll get your deposit back after check-out.
- Booking Flexibility: Reserve your escape up to a year in advance, though value weeks can even be booked on shorter notice for a slightly higher fee. Want to get going sooner? Last-minute condo stays can be arranged for a separate fee. Credits are sometimes available to reduce that cost.
Members also enjoy flexibility by loaning, sharing, or transferring their vacation credits to family members. You can stretch those credits for maximum fun and adventure, whether you choose a condo retreat or a cruise.
Refundable Security Deposit Policies on Global Discovery Vacations
Before heading off on your next adventure, it’s good to know about refundable security deposits. Global Discovery Vacations requires you to place a refundable security deposit, typically around $200 per reservation, when you book a stay. This deposit covers any potential damages or missing items during your stay.
The best part? As long as you leave the condo in great shape and nothing goes missing, the resort returns your deposit, usually within 14 days after you check out. So, you can focus on making memories, not worrying about surprise charges.
How Much Does Global Discovery Vacations Club Cost?
Global Discovery Vacations has thousands of members who travel adventurously year after year. The cost of membership varies depending on your needs as a traveler, and financing options are available. On top of that, you’ll want to budget for annual maintenance fees. The average for maintenance fees according to ARDA (American Resort Development Association) was $1,480 across the industry. These yearly dues help keep things running smoothly, so all you have to worry about is whether to ski the Rockies or snorkel in Aruba. Buying from the resale market can help you save on the initial cost, which means big savings in the long run.
And yes, there are flexible options when it comes to your stay; with “float” weeks, you can pick vacation times that fit your schedule best. The benefits of vacation ownership with this brand are a huge bonus. GDV has cruise options available with your membership, so if you have yet to set sail, this can be your chance. While every travel club differs, GDV offers full concierge services to its members and travel planning assistance as well.
Not to mention, GDV club memberships let your loved ones benefit from your membership. You can take a one-week-long trip or share the love with your family members, and break up the benefits and take a few different vacations a year. What’s more, the GDV club customizes your membership to your needs because they know vacationing isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Save on Global Discovery Vacations with Timeshare Resales
Do you enjoy visiting different locations every year? Do you crave adventure? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then this just might be the ownership you’ve been searching for. And if you want to save on the initial price, browse the resale market! Buying through resale for Global Discovery Vacations allows you to experience and create new memories. While most brands focus on luxury, this one focuses on adventure. As a membership-based brand, you will need to purchase a membership and renew it annually to continue traveling.
Have you ever used Global Discovery Vacations before? What was your experience? Let us know in the comments.
