Timeshare occupancy rates in Hawaii grew during the first half of 2010, despite a significant reduction in overall visitors.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority announced that timeshare occupancy rates in Hawaii increased by 4.6 percent through the first six months of the year. Visitors, who spent their vacation in timeshares, also rose by 5.8 percent.

“The data prove that even in difficult times, timeshare owners and guests are committed to Hawaii and will come year in and year out,” commented Daniel Dinell, VP of Hilton Grand Vacation Club and chair of the ARDA-Hawaii commission. 

Last month, the tropical state had 67,719 visitors indicated that they want to stay in timeshares for their vacations, marking a five percent increase from the 2008 base year.

In particular, Japanese tourists seemed the most enamored to stay in timeshares. Japanese visitors, who wanted to spend their vacations in timeshares, increased by more than 50 percent compared to August 2008.

“Timeshares create that all important steady layer of business,” explains Marsha Wienert, the state Tourism Liaison. “They were the only segment of the Japanese visitor market that rose last month.” 

With the recession at hand, timeshares are a valuable asset to the Hawaiian economy. The industry is responsible for creating 34,420 jobs and generating $511 million worth of tax revenue.

Source: Star Bulletin