The Canadian Vacation Ownership Association (CVOA) is Canada’s only association dedicated to representing the needs and interests of the resort development industry and vacation owners in Canada and Internationally. For nearly 40 years, CVOA has brought together industry leaders in North America to maintain the highest ethical standards possible and has aligned themselves closely with other industry organizations in the United States and Mexico.

The Mission of CVOA is to promote high standards of ethical conduct and professionalism through accreditation trusted by developers, vacation club, exchange clubs and property owners’ associations alike. The use of the CVOA Logo and adhering to the code of ethics is strictly enforced by the association.

Recently the Canadian Government issued a warning to Canadian travelers who may be considering a purchase of a timeshare in Mexico, referencing high pressure tactics and urging citizens to do their homework and be diligent before signing any timeshare contracts.

The CVOA supports the Canadian Government Advisory and acknowledges that, as with every industry, there is likely some operators that do not adhere to all guidelines.  The association strongly recommends that Canadian’s purchase from one of the many reputable companies in Mexico that actively participate as members of the CVOA and are bound by its code of ethics. Some of these companies include: Unlimited Vacation Club by AM Resorts, Promotora Sunset Beach Clubs, Fiesta Americana Vacation Club by Grupo Posadas and El Cid Vacations Club.

“Canadian’s are arguably the most well-travelled and most savvy travelers in the world. For more years than we can count, Canadians have fully embraced spending time in other countries on vacation by investing, or exchanging, or enjoying the myriad of offerings our diverse industry provides. I am proud to work hand in hand with my international counterparts in Mexico, the US and Europe to promote and support this outstanding industry and have no tolerance for the few companies who have less than ethical practices. I encourage all travel industry companies who have Canadian guests, buyers, investors and partners to join the Canadian Vacation Ownership Association, as together we are stronger.” Says Ingrid Jarrett, President & CEO, Canadian Vacation Ownership Association.

Timeshares and Vacation Clubs have helped millions of families affordably realize their vacation dreams for more than 50 years and the industry continues to grow with several major hotel brands leading the field.

CVOA reminds Canadian travelers of the following:

1. Review the contract carefully, anything not included in the contract will not be honored.
2. Only provide your credit card if you are confident you want to make the purchase.
3. Keep copies of all correspondence.
4. Research the product and company where you purchased.
5. Check that the company is a member in good standing of CVOA at http://www.canadianvoa.org/cvoa_member_list.shtml
6. Know that If you find something you are not satisfied with, you are legally able to cancel a timeshare contract within 5 days of signing when cancelled in writing to the company where the purchase was made.

CVOA also works hand in hand with its counterparts, AMDETUR and ACOTUR in Mexico, ARDA, C.A.R.E and the Association of Vacation Owners in the United States and RDO in Europe to ensure compliance and the highest ethics standards as set by these organizations.

The Canadian Vacation Ownership Association fully supports the long-term sustainability and growth of international tourism and travel and is proud of the relationships and partnerships that represent the best in the vacation ownership industry.

About the Canadian Vacation Ownership Association

CVOA is Canada’s only association dedicated to representing the interests of the vacation ownership and resort development industries. Since its founding in 1980 (originally as the Canadian Resort Development Association), the organization has become Canada’s preeminent industry association representing all forms of vacation ownership. CVOA membership is a community of active industry leaders committed to promoting and maintaining a high standard of ethical conduct within the Canadian vacation ownership industry, creating B-2-B and networking opportunities between Members, and educating consumers as to the benefits of vacation ownership. For more information about CVOA visit www.canadianvoa.org