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impact of more people in the new towers (by Gregory B.):

We own a 2-bedroom mountain view unit (every year). We have traded our weeks during the construction of the new towers, so we have not been able to evaluate things first-hand. Our next visit is planned for Thanksgiving 2007.

We are taking a cautious "wait and see" approach regarding Marriott's expansion of the resort. The pool area at the Maui Ocean Club is a primary attraction for the resort. At certain times of the year, overcrowding at the pool is a real problem. The new towers being built will each include a small pool of their own. Older folks without kids sometimes complain about all the activity in the central pool, so Marriott's goal is to provide two tranquil pools for that purpose (although all pools will be open to all guests). However, I question how many people will choose to visit the smaller pools with a large and grand pool just around the corner. I fear the resort expansion will only add to the overcrowding problem at the central pool.

So far we have had no problems at all doing a trade - Maui is a very desirable destination. Our trading value in the original building may perhaps go down when the new towers come online. The two new towers being constructed will include units with a full kitchen and washer/dryer. This is a big selling point for some folks. The original units (like ours) have a wet-bar style kitchenette - and this seems to be the major complaint for some people (although it doesn't bother us). When traders can choose from newer and older units, it may be more difficult for us to make a trade.

For people who have recently visited the resort, I am curious to learn more about your opinion of the expansion. When finished, do you think it will be a net-plus, or a net-negative for the existing owners? Any photos of the new expansion to share? Do you share my concerns, or am I being too pessimistic?