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3.2 112 Reviews

Festiva Development Group Complaints Summary

61 Resolved
51 Unresolved
Our verdict: While Festiva Development Group has an above-average resolution rate, there’s room for improvement. Investigate common issues reported by customers and understand how they were resolved. Be prepared to follow up on your queries if needed, and keep detailed records of all interactions.
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Festiva Development Group reviews & complaints 112

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Festiva Development Group fradulent advertising and purchasing

My husband and I purchased a timeshare week at Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation East, owned by Festiva Resorts. Immediately upon our first day of our first visit, we were approached by a sales person for Festiva who asked us to attend a 90 minute presentation -- if we did we would get a free round of golf or something like that, I forget exactly. Anway, during the presentation, they scared us into believing that if we didn't convert our week into a points contract, we would lose our week, because "everyone was doing it and if we didn't do it we would lose out on our timeshare opportunities." That conversion to points contract cost us over $6000. When we agreed they said we could recoup much of those funds by renting out our week for 2010 to someone who wanted to use it at one of their high priority resorts. They said they could do that for us, but when I called the agent to request this service I could never get ahold of him. I called Festiva directly and the rep there acted like he didn't know what I was talking about. Clearly they never had any intention of helping us recoup our funds through rental. We ultimately lost our week for 2010, then when the statement came for annual maintenance fee for 2011, we were horrified to find that the fee had increased over 50% above what we had paid for the maintenance fee on our original contract, in 2008.
I think we were conned, duped, and lied to by Festiva, they are providing false advertising, and ripping people off. I'd like to know how to sell my points contract and get out of this timeshare.

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Apr 08, 2010 3:50 pm EDT

I'm sorry that you had an unpleasant experience with your upgrade to the Adventure Club. It is certainly not our standard practice to use high pressure sales pitches, scare tactics or any misleading information to introduce owners to our program.

We are more than happy to work with you and explain how you can get the best usage out of your membership. Also, if you can provide us with your name and the date of your presentation, we can find out who your sales person was and take any necessary action to re-train or discipline him or her.

Please contact me at comments@festiva.travel with this information and we will be glad to help you resolve your issues.

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4:24 pm EDT
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Festiva Development Group fees & interest

Sent a note to the corporate office charging 50% of my maintenance fee to my visa card but they failed to do it. The other 50% which covered by check cleared. Then they sent me a letter telling me that I have a balance of $413.50 of which $54.50 represents a fee & interest, of which I refuse to pay because if they effected the payment with my card 3 months before I will not
incur any balances. They waited more than 60 days to let me know about their mistake and they have the audacity to levy a
late fee and interest on the balance of which I should not have if they charged it to my visa card in Dec/Jan. 2010. Also, their
representatives will give you a hard time in talking to their supervisor, it took me at least 15 minutes to talk to one without resolving the issue. Both the supervisor & the rank in file employee were rude and lied to me covering each other. I will write to the President of the company, hoping that the Supervisor gave the right name of their president.

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Mar 22, 2010 11:14 am EDT

Mr. Rojero;
I'm sorry you've had difficulties with your maintenance fee payments. A note in your account indicates that your credit card information was sent to the incorrect address for that type of payment. As detailed on your invoice, check payments and credit card payments must be sent to two separate addresses. I have sent your comments to our Owner Services supervisor as we do wish to resolve any issues as quickly as possible. If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us directly at comments@festiva.travel.

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9:58 am EST
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Festiva Development Group missinformation

I grew up in Murrells Inlet S.C., and the one thing I can tell you about the Ellington at Wachasaw Plantation East is the info they have on there web site is wrong. They say it is located in a moss coverd oak plantation on the waterway well it is not, it is located by the Hospital in M.I., not far from a Major highway. US highway 17 runs the total length of the coast from Fl. to Ma. The waterway has an access to it but it is public and you cannot get into the main plantation unless you own there. I would suggest that if you wish to buy in this resort that you look it up first or call to inquire.

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Festiva Development Group deed with misleading tactics

When we converted to Festiva ... We were told that the property was still going to generate interest for a tax write off. We have been receiving this information the past three years -- from Festiva -- and as of this year 2010, they say that that will not be happening anymore. All of the sudden, We tare the ones that did wrong for signing-off the deed to them. Their misleading tactics, lies and dishonest sales representatives actually spoke their ways into taking my deeded property (which was almost paid for)for a 10 year deal that doesn't work for me anymore.

They used misleading information and used scare tactics to get over $3000 from each Equivest owner to “convert” to Festiva. Festiva purchased Equivest in 2007, and has since been trying to convert all the Equivest owners over to Festiva. We fell for it. Basically, they charged us $3000 to buy what we already own. The sales rep we dealt with made several claims which we found out were false.

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ncmountainman
Concord, US
Jun 30, 2010 7:57 am EDT

Maybe if enough people complain about Festiva's scare tactics to the NC Attorney General's office and NC real Estate Commission, Festiva can be forced to refund the money and return owners and inventory to Equivest/ Peppertree Vacation Club. I am sure most who have converted have found the Festiva Club not near as good as Peppertree and only did so out of fear or deception. Why else would you pay thousands of dollars for a less flexible vacation club?

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ncmountainman
Concord, US
Jun 30, 2010 7:21 am EDT

Have you contacted the North Carolina Attorney General's Office? [protected] You may also want to try the NC Real Estate Commission [protected] They used scare tactics on me also, calling my home and at their resots. One even stated that they had already converted 90% of Equivest inventory to Festiva and that the rest of us would be stuck paying all the expenses of the club if we did not convert and there would be little inventory available to use.

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6:22 pm EST
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Festiva Development Group good

Me and my husband got the opportunity to go to Myrtle Beach with Festiva. Our tour went absolutely horrible! A couple months later we received a phone call from someone at Festiva. We explained what had happened to the young man. He told us that they had went under brand new management and that they promised things would be better. So we booked to go to Charleston. We had a GREAT time! The sales rep at the Charleston location was very nice and knew we was not going to buy a timeshare. So we have traveled every year with Festiva and cant complain! I would say they def made up for what had originally happened! Now as soon as we get finances under control we are going to buy a time share with Festiva!

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williamk252
Stella, US
Aug 09, 2011 7:55 pm EDT

Be glad to give you my paid in full 4, 900 pts a year Festiva contract with 2011 fees paid in full, if you pay the transfer/closing costs. 37 yrs left on owner contract and 1, 400 points left for 2011. Our health and finances no longer let us travel.
bking19@ec.rr.com

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ncmountainman
Concord, US
Jul 31, 2010 3:30 pm EDT

Correct site for Festiva complaints, call to action and discussions http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Peppertree-EquivestOwners/

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AWRMihalic
Belleair Bluffs, US
Mar 11, 2010 6:00 am EST

Do your homework! Make sure you want to commit to the fees associated with buying. We have found more vacation adventures for less money per year with no committments thru AARP, American Express and Southwest Airlines vacation planners...

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Feb 18, 2010 3:48 pm EST

While I'm sorry to hear that your initial experience with Festiva was not a good one, I'm so glad to hear that it worked out for you in the end!

We have gone through some management personnel changes at some of our locations over the last few years, and we feel that we currently have an all-around strong team of representatives who take pride in providing a positive experience for every single customer. We have implemented new training processes and systems for monitoring our customer interactions.

I'm glad you've seen our progress firsthand! If you ever have any questions, please let us know at comments@festiva.travel.

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5:38 am EST
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Festiva Development Group scam

Were convinced to purchase a small timeshare with the understanding that we could use it at anytime throughout the year by paying an exchange fee. Our designated season in which we were advised to buy was at times that we could in no way use it because of jobs. We did not want to spend alot of money on a timeshare and we were told to buy a cheaper package and at any time you could trade up to be able to use it at different times at different locations. The only truth is they keep taking my money from my account. Also, they were to purchase a one year membership from Interval International Resorts to give world wide destinations. In speaking with Interval, we were made aware that Festiva never purchased the membership as we were told, which was part of our contract (we are not found anywhere in their data base). Conclusion is that Festiva are nothing more than common con artists.

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Feb 01, 2010 1:14 pm EST

Fank56;
I'm sorry that you've had trouble with your membership thus far, but it looks like we can help you work out your issues and get you on vacation. If you could provide us with more information including the date and location you purchased, and the name on your account along with an e-mail address then I can have someone from our owner services department contact you to explain your package and how you can make the most out of what you purchased. You can write to use directly at comments@festiva.travel and we will take care of you.

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looking out for you
Myrtle Beach, US
Jan 29, 2010 11:35 am EST

my mother and father bought a timeshare from festiva resorts in murrells inlet, they told me they were fine until the end of showing them of what festiva had to offer, everyone was nice and wanted to be helpful until they got to the price.they told the lady they couldnt buy now and just didnt think they needed their product or membership.a manager came over (wayne) and started telling them they couldnt think about it the price was only good today and that was it, and this is what made my blood boil.he said the real estate commission made them do it that way.i found out the real estate commission has nothing to do with the way they set their price and the sales people of festiva are not required to have a real estate lic.is all a BIG CON it sounds so good ut you dont know what is the truth and what is not, i really hope the lawmakers start regulating and prosecute the people from he bottom to the top for this type of business practice

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looking out for you
Myrtle Beach, US
Jan 29, 2010 11:12 am EST

if you ever get hooked with them its like your addicted to crack cocaine, you will never have enough points with them you will always have to buy more to get somewhere on vacation, you just didnt buy the right package but this one will get you there and that is repeated over and over with this company.the nly way to get the vacation you really want is to book it yourself through a reputable travel agent such as triple A, etc

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Festiva Development Group phone sales tactics

BEWARE!

These people are sending out highly discounted room rates at expensive hotels as a lead in to selling timeshares. They never say anything about timeshares or other property purchases during the phone conversation. My wife was mislead thinking that the Astor Crowne Plaza in New Orleans was giving her this nice birthday present. We have stayed there before so she gave no thought to someone trying to deceive her. It took me four phone calls and talking to six people and threats to bring the Atttorney General in the matter to be given credit on my credit card.

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ncmountainman
Concord, US
Jul 31, 2010 3:24 pm EDT

Correct site for Festiva complaints, call to action and discussions http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Peppertree-EquivestOwners/

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Jan 28, 2010 12:43 pm EST

Dynamo;

I'm sorry that the nature of the phone call from our marketing department was misunderstood. It is our strict policy and practice for all of our phone representatives to inform guests about the requirement of attending our presentation to qualify for the discount, and these verifications are recorded. It is also written in the confirmation letter that we send you by e-mail after you purchase the package. If you have any questions about this, please feel free to contact us directly at comments@festiva.travel.

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Festiva Development Group timeshare scam

We purchased timeshare points in 1999 with Peppertree Resorts in Asheville NC and didn’t have any trouble booking in Myrtle Beach while we were paying for it. Since we have paid it off every time we book in Myrtle Beach (Peppertree Ocean Club) we cannot get the type of room we booked. They have put us on the side facing the parking lot and they do have the rooms available to rent but not to the timeshare owners.
The maintenance fee went up for 2009 and for what reason? the owners can't get a room so they have to pay maintenance so Festiva can rent the rooms?

My husband has emailed the person that deals with concern and of course we haven't heard anything.

If you are unhappy with a timeshare membership that you own, you are not alone!

I am ready to dump this timeshare. Any suggestions how?

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ncmountainman
Concord, US
Jul 31, 2010 3:28 pm EDT

Correct site for Festiva complaints, call to action and discussions http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Peppertree-EquivestOwners/

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Jan 14, 2010 2:24 pm EST

Mrs. Dean;
It is my understanding that you were contacted by our Owner Services department and they have resolved your issues to your satisfaction. Please contact us if there's anything we can do for you in the future.
Thanks,
Sara

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Jan 13, 2010 12:12 pm EST

Mrs. Dean;
Just to follow up, I responded to your e-mail and someone from our owner services department should be in touch with you soon to resolve your issues. Unfortunately, the person you e-mailed was a former member of the PVTC advisory committee (not an employee of Festiva). Any questions or concerns about your reservations, maintenance fees or general membership issues should be sent to ownerservices@festiva.travel.
Thanks

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Jan 06, 2010 8:28 am EST

CDean;

I'm sorry that you've had trouble booking your desired unit at POC. The maintenance fees are determined by the HOA board at the resort, and a mailing was sent to all POC owners in October with the full 2010 budget showing where the increases came from. If you can let me know who you e-mailed that has not responded to your concerns, I can follow up and be sure that someone gets in touch with you to answer any questions and help you get the best out of your ownership. You can e-mail me directly at comments@festivaresorts.com.

Thanks,
Sara

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Festiva Development Group - duplicity

does anyone know if there is a class action suit growing regarding Festiva Properties. The numerous emails -just on this site alone-attest to its deceptive sales pitch. I've yet to get anything worthwhile through INTERVAL (which was "guaranteed" during the sales pitch). The straw that broke the camels back is the increase in maintenance dues. The 2010 due...

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Festiva Development Group fraud practices

Upon reading all about the Festiva scams on your website, we decided to add our input..
We also have been burned by this company last year and we feel while
complaining is a nice way to vent what about everyone teaming together to stop others from being taken.Regulations should apply to these practices and all the people we can
together to do so will help.We have stopped any monthly payments and we have told our credit card company to change our card numbers.We plan a trip within the next month
to this area and you can believe we will visit each and every establishment that promoted or supported this process right down to the Restraurants, Welcoming Centers and Tour agents who sell this crap.Letting this go on only allows them to legally steal from people so please consider emailing us at [protected]@aol.com Making their lives miserable
like they have ours will be a start.Also call the Attroney Generals Office of the State you
purchased the timeshare and Better Buisness Bureau's too.We are currently working with our credit card company to reverse some payment charges back to us.We do have more information please feel free to email. Thanks Dan & Ann

Names Associated with our Scam, perhaps they would sound familar to you.
Gayle Nickeeson
Mac Mc Carthy
Steve Tucker
Carolos Ribeiro
Tex from Texas.( flew in from Texas that day because of the Timeshare promotional sale
We were told we could to buy the old contract terms and all the points that go with it.
Never happened.

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ncmountainman
Concord, US
Jul 31, 2010 3:25 pm EDT

Correct site for Festiva complaints, call to action and discussions http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Peppertree-EquivestOwners/

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Jan 13, 2010 11:19 am EST

I'm sorry that you had a negative experience at one of our offices last year. We take complaints from our guests very seriously and we can typically resolve issues with open communication. Our goal is to provide the best customer service possible and to send our members on fantastic vacations. Please let us know the specifics of your experience and we will be more than happy to work with you towards a resolution. You can contact us directly at comments@festiva.travel.

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Festiva Development Group misleading sales pitch

My husband and I were told that our points could be carried over an unlimited number of years. Tonight I called to carry over our points (again) to next year and was told I could not because the points had already been deferred once. I advised this was not what we were told during the sales pitch. All I was told is this is what is stated in the owner's guide and on the website. The only information I could readily find on the website said that points could be deferred to the following year by December 15th. We only get 2000 points every other year - that might get you a weekend at one of the resorts. We paid off the mortgage and we paid our first year maintenance fee on time and in full. I really regret getting this timeshare now.

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VACATION LOVER
Franklin, US
Nov 23, 2010 4:42 pm EST

I HAVE BEEN AN OWNER SINCE 2005 AND HAVE HAD NO PROBLEMS USING MY POINTS AND ABSOLUTEYLY LOVE THE PROGRAM. MAYBE ALL OF YOU DOING THE COMPLAINING SHOULD SIT DOWN AND READ HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS AND THEN YOU COULD GET FULL BENIFITS FROM THE BEST COMPANY IN THE WORLD. I HAVE BEEN TO MORE PLACES IN THE LAST 5 YEARS THAN I WOULD HAVE EVER BEEN ABLE TO AFFORD TO GO. BUT I HAVE COMMON SENSE AND APPLY IT!

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AWRMihalic
Belleair Bluffs, US
Mar 11, 2010 5:55 am EST

i haven't even used our points yet, i've been frustrated with their web site and everything that was told to us in the Bahamas was misleading. They got us all confused throwing all different sales tactics at us. The more I questioned them, the more they threw at us, and then would have different sales agents come over to try to sell me. I broke down and I did buy the 1 week every other year, mostly for opportunity of being able to transfer our points over to Interval travel... I do agree, i wish I had never spent the money getting involved with Festivia. My husband won't even look or wants to hear about it, he is so aggrevated. I just told him i'd do the trip planning for the week.

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JOwens
1234 Friendship Ledford Rd, US
Feb 11, 2010 2:19 pm EST

We regret ever converting from our fixed week to the Festiva points. I do not like the rules of how their reservations work. For example if you defer your points, then you cannot make a reservation against them until 5 months out and by then when you do try to make a reservation you cannot get the time or resort you would like. We have been in timeshares since the late 80's and this is the worse we have ever had. If I could switch back to the fixed week, what a joy that would be. I know it is getting harder (or that's what they lead you to believe) to exchange a fixed week using RCI. At least, we would go to our home resort using the week we purchased.
I would never recommend anyone to buy into Festiva.

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Dec 22, 2009 4:01 pm EST

Ms. Duncan;
I'm sorry that you were given inaccurate information during your sales presentation. It's true that points from a given usage year can only be deferred once. We do have a strict sales training process, and if incorrect information is being provided to our members we do want to hear about it. Please write to comments@festivaresorts.com with the date that you purchased and the location of your presentation so that we can further investigate the issue and be certain that our guests are receiving accurate information from our sales team.

Also, you can use 2, 000 points for a full week at many of our resorts. The points chart for each resort is available on our website, and our Owner Services department can assist you with getting the best vacation for you and your family using your membership. Please let us know if there's anything else we can do for you.

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Festiva Development Group - never able to use

We have filed a formal complaint with the South Carolina's Attorney General's office against Festiva Resorts Adventure Club. We have paid for all of our 50, 000 points and maintenance fees to date, but are always told nothing is available. We have even tried booking a year in advance with Interval International the exchange Co, this also to no avail . We...

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Festiva Development Group time share deposit

On November 17 I paid my maintenance fees online. I then called customer services to deposit my week with Interval International. The person I spoke to was unable to deposit my week. He said my switch from the Adventure Club, to a deeded week, had not been made with II, despite this change having been done 15 months earlier. He assured me he would take care of it and it would only take a day or two. Three days later, I called again, and it was not completed. Today, a week later, I called and spoke to someone else. I was told the issue was with Interval International, not Festiva. I called II, and the problem was Festiva. Another call to customer services at Festiva, and this time the person was able to deposit my week with II. However, when I checked online, the deposit was there, but it was a yellow week, rather than a red week for which I have a copy of my paid-off deed. Once again I called Festiva, and was told it will take 24-48 hours to correct the problem. We'll see.

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Update by Laurie Jo
Nov 29, 2009 8:06 am EST

I can't believe it! The last problem was fixed within the 48 hour time frame promised! I will definitely be more aware of questions to ask the next time I deposit.

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Jan 28, 2010 12:57 pm EST

Laurie Jo;
I'm glad we were able to resolve your problem in a timely manner. We do care about our owners and members and want to send them all on memorable vacations. Please let us know in the future if you have any problems, suggestions or questions. You can reach us at comments@festiva.travel or ownerservices@festiva.travel.

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Festiva Development Group poor services

In April of 2007, we purchased a bi-annual week at Stormy Point in Branson, MO. As part of the purchase, we traded in a Red week in Miami, which we had owned for several years. At the time, we were assured, despite asking the right questions, there was no such thing with Festiva as Red vs Yellow weeks. In January of 2008, when I paid the maintenance fees and deposited my week with II, I discovered I was sold a Yellow week rather than a Red week. It took nearly 9 months of haggling, including being tricked into paying MORE money for an Adventure Club membership, rather than owning a designated week, and contacting Attorney Generals in both MO, and NC, to finally settle with Festiva in August of 2008. I now own a Red week, I originally believed I had purchased. Today I paid my 2010 maintenace fees. I then called to deposit my week with II. Would you believe they were unable to deposit my week? Apparently some type of paper work which converts me back to Stormy Point from the Adventure Club has never been completed. Despite this being 15 months later. The person I spoke to is supposed to be looking into it and will call me with my II deposit confirmation within a few days. We'll see. I do not hold out much hope, based on past experience. I have been a member of II for over 20 years, so it is not a matter of no membership. Just another example of poor service.

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adventurer
Sturgeon Bay, US
May 06, 2010 10:50 pm EDT

I own, I love it, end of story!( GO adventure club!) just relax and go on vacation! Spend time with your family and make a memory, after all we're not gauranteed tomorrow! Am I right, or am I right... or... Am I right! Riiiight ! The whole world should just go on vacation without bombs in there luggage or problems from home! Red week, ? Yellow week? smed week, smellow week ! just smile and be happy we can afford to think about just forgetting it all and being happy with life ... gotta go my flight for the bahamas is leaving imagine if you were there ! bye bye

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Jan 14, 2010 2:28 pm EST

Laurie Jo;
I'm sorry you had a bad experience with us in the past. We feel that we've done a lot to improve our sales experience over the last few years including more in depth training for our sales representatives and for our owner services department. If you feel that your issues have not been resolved, please let send us an e-mail at comments@festiva.travel.

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Festiva Development Group 90min. scam

would not let me show documents to my attorney.i wanted that package deal they offred me.had cash in hand.they. stepped back an walked away.90min wasted.an a 2hr drive.the offer said it would take 90min.to prosses myprize, they gave me a penny to scratch off an see if i had won the big prize(WHO WON THE 2009FORD?)not i.how does the law let people get away with this?where do they come from?you get caught in a [censored] house, you go to jail an pay a fine.but you go to FESTIVA resorts an get SCREWED an nothing is said is our attorney general afraid of these people? lets see jail time

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Festiva Development Group additional reservation charges

We bought with Festiva 3 years ago. I wanted to believe this company was "different" from other timeshare companies. However, in the last 3 years, more and more deception and misrepresentations have occurred to now I deeply regret buying my timeshare from them. First they convinced that we had to convert over to points or else lose the value we had originally purchased, we paid several thousand dollars more to not have the benefits we did before - unbelievably! We can now no longer deal directly with the location we purchased from to begin with, but rather are forced to deal with the Adventure Club (Festiva), who charge $89 every time you want to make a reservation (after the first call of the year). The whole sales pitch about benefits of points was to make those "last minute" calls and save point value... but if you have to pay for the call, you've lost your savings. I'm sick to think of how much I am paying for less benefits that we had originally (not to mention $300 more in maintenance fees - which they didn't tell us until we were just about to sign our name to the contract) - DO NOT BUY from these people - they are crooks.

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William Harvey
Beaufort, US
May 11, 2009 1:48 pm EDT

I just purchased in Festiva Resorts last year and I made one reservation this year so far. I just called to make another reservation for Thanksgiving week and I was told there would be a $89.00 fee for making another reservation the same year. This is gouging and is rediculous. I was told in order to avoid this additional charge I had to roll all my points over to next year, call back nest year and make all my reservations at one time. Who knows that far in advance when and where they might want to go? Things can happen and sudden changes can make those early reservations void. The more I learn about this company the less I like it and I am in deep consideration of giving my ownership up. I am not satisfied with this company one bit.

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ajcooper929
Westbrook, US
Jun 06, 2010 2:01 pm EDT

Why does everyone al;ways complain about the sales process? Festiva does nothing wrong... as usual, it comes down to naive people not paying attention to details when they sign up

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Jan 28, 2010 12:36 pm EST

Cheynes;
I'm sorry that you've had a negative experience with the Adventure Club. You will be pleased to know that we eliminated the $89 multiple transaction fee in November of last year. So now you can call us as many times as you wish or need for reservations, and there are no additional fees. If you have any other questions or concerns that need to be addressed, we are more than willing to assist you in any way that we can. Please contact us at comments@festiva.travel.

Singletary;
If you have a specific complaint or concern, you can also contact us directly and we will work towards a resolution. We sent more than 90, 000 people on vacation in 2009 alone, and we certainly do want to address and solve any problems that our members have.

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SINGLETARY
, US
Oct 26, 2009 6:00 pm EDT

MY COMPLAINT HAS BEEN REMOVED ? IT MAY BE BECAUSE I WROTE OUT THE POINTS IN THE CONTRACT FOR ALL TO VIEW... DO NOT SIGN A CONTRACT WITH FESTIVA .. THERE ARE HIDDEN COST AND LIES IN THE FINE PRINT... READ READ READ THE CONTRACT. IF NOT YOU ARE GOING TO LOSS ALOT.. DEED OWNERS BE AWEAR THEY ARE REALLY AFTER THAT DEED AND YOUR WEEK. THEY WANT TO SELL YOU POINTS FOR A REASON. IT IS NOT FOR VACTION TIME BUT, FOR MONEY. IN 40 YEARS YOU HAVE TO BUY IT AGAIN IF YOU WANT IT. IT IS ALL IN THE FINE PRINT JUST READ...SAFE YOUR SELF A LOT OF TIME AND HEADACKE DO NOT MEET WITH THESE MONEY HUNGRY LIRES...

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Sep 24, 2009 4:38 pm EDT

Mrs. Gaskins;

We responded to you directly by e-mail on 9/11/2009. In case you did not receive it, there is information answering your question on our blog at http://festivaresorts.wordpress.com/question-answer/comment-page-1/#comments.

There is also information in the members’ section of our website about the reservation process, including the fees. Once you are logged in as a member, you can view the Understanding Your Membership page, the Rules & Regulations page, and the Frequently Asked Questions page which all have detailed information about your usage and explanation of the multiple reservation fees.

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R & T Gaskins
Greeneville, US
Sep 09, 2009 4:28 pm EDT

I just called to make a 3 night reservation (our 1st) and was told about the $89.00 fee for any other res. in 2009. I asked if it was possible to make my own reservations; of course not. Now, unless a member needs the expertise of Central Reservations, I don't see why they can't help themselves and save the $89.00 fee. There are those of us who are not internet capable, but I am. So I rec'd a point discount for late res. but will be forced to pay in inflationary money (not points) for any other res. this year, $89.

As we were being wooed into buying this, our 1st timeshare, I asked our salesperson, Patrick Haag and his boss, Robert Cote, Proj Dir, this question. When we call for res, will Festiva nickel and dime us to death with any other fees? They said no and that's a benefit because then you know what your vacation will cost in advance. They also stated that the maintenance fees would not be going up any time soon.

This should've been pointed out to us from the beginning. I just hope my first trip will be enjoyable.

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FESTIVA FANATIC
Wisconsin Dells, US
Jun 28, 2009 12:38 pm EDT

bonehead...read you festiva documents...it says the first fiscal reservation call you can make as many reservations for free...any additional reservations will cost 89.00. Solution...pick your places ahead of time. if you pay 89.00 at the beggining of the year two things will happen...you can cancel any reservation that year with no addotional fee. Also, you will be refunded 100% of your yearly maint fee if you do not use your points that year...if you roll or bank those points and try to activate those point, you will have to pay the maint fees. sorry about the bonehead part...

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
May 11, 2009 5:42 pm EDT

We have posted an answer to your concern about the multiple reservation fee on our blog. Please visit http://festivaresorts.wordpress.com/question-answer.

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Festiva Development Group fraud, misleading sales pitches

Festiva Resorts is a scam. I pity anyone who invests w/ them.
Their company is incompetant and so are the majority of their employees.

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SCAMMEDSOBAD
Myrtle Beach, US
Sep 23, 2009 6:13 pm EDT

www.vogroup.net

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Jul 28, 2009 5:55 pm EDT

Mrs. Bartenfield;

We are more than happy to address any concerns you may have regarding our sales presentation. If you were misrepresented in any way, please let us know the details so that we can deal with the person who was the cause of such misrepresentation, as we do not tolerate that among any of our employees. Send your name, the date you toured, and the details of your presentation including your salespersons name(s) to comments@festivaresorts.com.

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Festiva Development Group best program ever

I have been working for festiva for a good lenghth of time and looked at the many complaints on the web and so far it seems as though there is a great deal of confusion not mislead people for instance your II book is only for one year. your adventure club is for two years with the option to continue. if you own with festiva you don't have to upgrade if you do not want to although the benefits out way the risks it your choice. you what you contract says it will do today it will always do tomorrow. At any time during our trying to explain how the program works you dont like it you can leave you just loose your gifts. also you get 27 resorts no extra cost just the lowest mnt. fees in the business look up the Mariot, Wyndham or Westgate their average mnt. fee is 700 dollars

ps all the sales reps are just people
you may work in a med. office, a factory we just sell vacation
please enjoy the program and you quality time with your family

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salesguyssssss
Herman, US
Sep 29, 2010 4:38 pm EDT

Great post! GO get em buddy.

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Festiva Development Group will not refund my money after they cancelled due to overbooking

We booked a week "festiva getaway" for the Peppertree Atlantic Beach. It was a promotion in which you had to take the time share tour by the second day of your arrival. We own a time share at a gold crown RCI resort in Hilton Head, so this was not a big hassle for us. However, Festiva contacted me 4 days before my planned vactaion(on tuesday afternoon), and stated that they had "accidentally overbooked". They wanted to have me to change weeks. I am unable to do that, as I have to preapare well in advance to arrange time off from my medical office. The next thing they wanted me to do is change resorts. However, they did not have anything to offer in the outer banks area. They could offer me orlando or a resort 3 miles from the beach in Myrtle Beach. This was not feasible for us, as we were traveling thru Raleigh to stop for family, and you cannot do that to go to either locations. Plus - I shouldnt have to go somewhere I have no desire to go just because they messed up!

I asked for a refund, and the man stated he would have to ask his supervisor. WHY do you need to ask supervisor to give me a refund on something their company is unable to provide? Anyway, he eventually said that this had been ok'ed, and he obtained by card info to apply the refund.

That was June 16th- 2 and a half weeks ago. I STILL HAVE NOT GOTTEN MY MONEY! Someone from the Asheville office - Jessie somebody - called me the following 2 days to say " they were trying to work something out and needed to discuss my refund" I have called him and left messages 6 times. Last week, I finally got to speak with someone else, and she said that I would have to speak with Jessie. I told her I had left him repeated messages and he would not call me back. She then said he would, and I asked when? She said I do not know. I then said, "will it be by the end of business day today?" and SHE HUNG UP ON ME!

I have called again today, and left more messages - this time for a Julia Shirley in the finance department.

This is absolutely ridiculous! I have contacted a lawyer, my local state representative, and the local news station of Asheville to run a story on this fradulent company. I have a long time friend that happens to work for this station, and he will put me in contact with the reporter that handles their "scam revealed"stories.

If I do not get my money back in the next few days, it is going to get VERY ugly.

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Jul 27, 2009 11:17 am EDT

Mrs. Yelton;

It is my understanding that on the day we were made aware of your situation (July 03), you were contacted by our marketing department and given your refund along with a vacation certificate.

We are very sorry that you had to deal with this due to the unforeseen circumstance of the employee you were originally working with leaving the company unexpectedly.

If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at comments@festivaresorts.com.

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festiva rep at Ellington
Surfside Beach, US
Jul 26, 2009 1:02 am EDT

the way this all sounds to me is an untimely refund to an over excited person. someone who is trying to smear the good name of festiva. chill out

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Festiva Development Group false/misleading sales tactics/bbb

We own festiva usage every other year (Eoy) and after being pushed to change over to point system, we wanted to upgrade to "every year" (Ey) but we requested to not upgrade if we couldn't get financing which they were going to arrange. They agreed we could stay eoy and the sales guy wrote our old contract number on a form. Long story short, when we could not be finaced, they upgraded us to ey anyway. We had been disapproved the same day we were in the sales office. Now we have complained to bbb (We recommend this as well complaining to the state attorney general of nc). They knew about the non-financing but didn't mention it. They told us other things which turned out to be lies — like you can "walk away"from this contract which actually meant you will be defaulted and ruin your credit!). After stonewalling us for months (Ignoring our "letter of dispute"), now they want to revert to us to ey, the old contract. They cannot be trusted. Watch those sales guys at banner elk! Do not do business with these people. Mo attorney general took them to court and they were found guilty. Go missouri; hope nc attorney general follows suit! Do not buy timeshares unless you check the internet first! What a hassle!

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SCAMMEDSOBAD
Myrtle Beach, US
Sep 23, 2009 6:14 pm EDT

www.vogroup.net

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Jul 20, 2009 5:54 pm EDT

P. Cook;
I believe I sent you a message through another forum (TripAdvisor), and I just want to reiterate that we do our best to only hire salespeople (and other employees) who represent our company with honesty and integrity, and who will do their best to make our owners, members and guests feel comfortable and welcome at all times.

If any one of our employees in any department fails to do so, we certainly do want to know about it so that we can fix the situation. One thing we are doing to this end is implementing a 'secret shopper' program at our sales sites, so that we hear firsthand reports of the sales meetings.

We also do rely on the experiences of our owners and guests, so if you can provide us with your name and the date that you had your meeting, we can investigate the situation and take action on the employee. If you wish to do so, please e-mail the information to comments@festivaresorts.com.

Thanks again for your message, and if we have the details of your experience so that we can find out which salesperson was involved, we will certainly do all that we can to resolve the situation.

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P. Cook
Hazen, US
Jul 08, 2009 12:30 pm EDT

We are owners at the Cabins At Green Mt. in Branson. We bought four yrs. ago during a high pressure sales meeting. We have been very satisfied up until our recent stay at the Cabins. We were lured into attending an "upgrade" meeting with a representitive of Festiva. They offered us free dining cards, and after turning them down for two days, on the third day we accepted.
The " upgrade" meeting was nothing but trying to get us to pay an extra 3000 dollars to convert to points. We were told that everyone is changing to points, and that in three yrs. our deeded Cabin will be worth nothing, and we probably won't even be able to get our week, as the point owners will have the oppurtunity first! So Festiva is allowing their salesmen to tell owners that what they have paid for, and have a deed to, will be worth Nothing . Sounds to me like Festiva is basically saying "Don't buy from us, because it will be worth nothing to you in the future".
Up until this recent meeting with the salesman from heck, we have had no problems.

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FESTIVA FANATIC
Wisconsin Dells, US
Jun 28, 2009 12:33 pm EDT

I think you people are so silly...im a festiva owner and am having a blast...in fact my salesman was at my wedding...timshares have always had a bad wrap because of people like you. How about you google FESTIVA praise websites...its pretty sad that you cant figure this out. There are more positive remarks about this company than your measley 7. Not to mention most of them are about the sales pitch. Get off you lazy ### and enjoy life...if you use the program for what its meant to do you wouldnt be in this mess. You wanna see real complaints...google westgate or wyndham...now those are companies to complain about...yours truly...a VERY HAPPY FESTIVA OWNER.

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Festiva Rep
Asheville, US
Jun 10, 2009 3:02 pm EDT

I'm sorry that you've had a bad experience with Festiva Resorts. We do all that we can to address and resolve all issues or complaints that our members have. Please send an e-mail to comments@festivaresorts.com with your name and contact information and we will have the appropriate people contact you.

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Festiva Development Group contacts

Phone numbers

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Website

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