There was a time when vacationing families had a single option for accommodations – hotel rooms. That living space usually consisted of a room and a bathroom, and unless you booked expensive multiple rooms … a lack of privacy.

Alan Whitt

Even today’s kids want their own space. Heaven forbid a family of four share a single room. Little Johnny wouldn’t want to be disturbed while playing his video games … and your teenage daughter needs her privacy to discuss serious topics with their friends – such as why Becky broke up with Sean.

And of course … mom and dad need a little alone time as well.

That’s why condos, villas and some timeshare rentals are gaining in popularity. You get multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, a furnished kitchen, additional living space and all the comforts of home … usually for less than hotel rooms.

This trend has long been popular with Europeans. And now that Americans are getting wind of it, even some hotels chains are getting into the vacation rental business.

Probably hurt most by the trend are timeshare owners, who find that they can rent a unit similar to the one they own for a week – and probably for less than their annual maintenance fees.

And if they try to rent out their units themselves, they’ll find themselves competing against … their own timeshare management company.

Check out Allure Quest Travel Experience on the web for all your travel needs – including analysis of destinations, insightful videos and the latest travel news.