Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa hosts a couple different recurring events that Disney Vacation Club members may want to check out.
In the first part of our Aulani visit review, we talked about some of the freebies owners can collect during their stay. Now let's address the unique member events. Like Walt Disney World, Disneyland and even Disney Cruise Line, Aulani hosts a regular "member update" meeting for owners. Currently taking place at 11:30am, 1pm and 3pm, the meetings are designed as a way to quickly touch base with owners and pass along some information regarding the program.
The meetings are held in one of the resort's three bedroom Grand Villas. Advance registration is required. Owners are escorted up to the 10th floor grand villa for about a 20 minute meeting with one of the DVC sales representatives.
These meetings typically focus on some aspect of ownership, and seek to pass along new information to membners. In this case, cast members gave a good overview of the exchange programs available through Interval International. Several examples were provided with destinations, resorts and point costs highlighted. Trading through Interval International can definitely be an economical way to use points outside of the native DVC program. Though owners are advised to research specific resorts before completing their transaction.
During our visit, there was no overt sales pitch whatsoever, but members are encouraged to meet with a DVC sales representative to discuss special promotions which may only be available during the visit.
If nothing else, the update meetings are a great way to get a first-hand look at a grand villa, and some pretty spectacular photos out on the balcony.
As a "thank you" for attending the member meeting, each participant receives a small gift. During this visit, it was one of the magnetic shoulder-mounted plush Stitch characters.
If you happen to find yourself at Aulani on the correct day, the resort also hosts a weekly "Member Celebration" with music, character appearances and more. This event is currently held on Mondays. Registration is required but there is no cost to attend.
