Starwood Vacation Network University – Worth attending?

Hey Gang,

Has anyone been to a “Starwood Vacation Network University” presentation? If so, did you find it to be a “fun, informative and interactive educational seminar” as claimed by Starwood?

I’m going to be in the Scottsdale area when the next one is being held there in early November, and I’m thinking of attending.

Thanks in advance.
-Nodge

P.S. How is SVNU's football team doing this year?

I got the invite too. I believe this is a new event as I've never heard of it before.


Dear DENISE
Starwood Vacation Network is pleased to announce the Starwood Vacation Network University Owners Weekend at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa…and you’re invited.

This special Owners-only event provides an action-packed weekend including a golf demonstration with Champions Tour Professional and 2003 U.S. Senior Open champion, Bruce Lietzke, a private luxury shopping tour, Starwood Vacation Network University and more.

You and your guest will enjoy luxurious accommodations at either The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa or The Westin Kierland Villas. Whether relaxing by the pool, golfing at the renowned Kierland Golf Club, or taking a leisurely stroll in the cool autumn evening, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.

In addition to attending Starwood Vacation Network University, each of you may select the activity of your choice: Golfer’s Getaway or Luxury Shopping Excursion. Special Owners-only pricing is available for this exclusive weekend. Visit the Events section of www.mystarcentral.com/signatureevents for the event schedule, list of activities and package details.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to get up close and personal with a PGA TOUR pro, meet and mingle with fellow Owners, and share your vacation memories – or create new ones. Space is limited and reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis through October 3, 2006. Call 888.619.2989 Monday - Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. ET to ensure your participation in this not-to-be-missed event.

We look forward to seeing you in Scottsdale.

Starwood Vaction Network University said:

. . . action-packed weekend including a golf demonstration . . .

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You don't usually see the terms "action-packed" and "golf demonstration" in the same sentence . . .. I wonder if this will be on the final?

I attended one held at WMH earlier this year. There is more information here on TUG than at the University. The good part is that they give you a chance of meeting with someone from Starwood one on one if you have any questions.

We got the invite yesterday too. It's the third invite for us, but we have not gone to any of them. I would go just to see what it was about, if I was in the area.

What about the online webcast presentation? It airs today at noon (PDT) and lasts for about an hour. Has anyone logged into it before and is it worth giving up a lunch hour for?

Hey MON2REY,

The on-line course sounds promising, especially since there is much less likelihood I'll end up with another timeshare out of the deal.

How did you gain access to today's on-line program?

-Nodge

Nodge,

I received an email from Starwood a couple months ago asking if I wanted to register for the webcast (originally scheduled for a month ago but the hurrican scare forced them to reschedule to today).

This is what I received yesterday:

Just a reminder that the webcast of Starwood Vacation Network(SM) University is just one day away. We're delighted that you've decided to take advantage of this unique opportunity and are excited to help you learn more about the unparalleled flexibility and privileges available to you as a member of Starwood Vacation Network.


Webcast Details:
Title: Starwood Vacation Network University
Date: Wednesday September 20, 2006
Time: 3:00p, Eastern time
Duration: Approximately 60 minutes


At the time of the webcast, go to:
http://www.iian.ibeam.com/events/stvo001/16144/


We recommend logging on at least 15 minutes prior to the start time. If you have not visited the above link to verify that your computer has the necessary requirements to view the webcast, we invite you to do so now. This will save you time prior to the webcast and ensure that you have a successful experience.


We're looking forward to this webcast of Starwood Vacation Network University and helping you make the most of your ownership. Save the date and discover a better way to see the world.

Thanks MON2REY,

Based on the link you provided, Starwood is controlling access to the course by only allowing pre-invited owners who also pre-registered. Accordingly, I'll wait for my invite email from Starwood.

In the interim, if you decide to participate in the on-line class today, please let us know what you thought of it and if they said anything particularly interesting or new about SVN.

Thanks again,
-Nodge

Nodge,
I just finished listening to the webcast. It ended up being a very basic review of the owners manual with the ability to ask questions. I asked two and one was answered. If the opportunity arises and you have the time, I guess it would be worthwhile to tune in to one of these just as a refresher; I wouldn't go out of my way, tho'. As an example, one question asked how the 8 months out was calculated. The answer was "if you want to start your stay on October 31, book your reservation 8 month prior - February 31st".

I haven't gotten any recent invites, but I got one about a year ago for the very first one they did in Manhattan. I wasn't able to go, although I wish I could have.