Research the Asset Depreciation and Owner protection policies before you purchase
The other replies are well said and you most certainly should do your research of the many factors. I myself am a multi-week Marriott owner at Frenchmans Cove in USVI-St Thomas and absolutely love it. My wife and kids go there every year. We are original owners or founders and our names are on the plaque in the reception hall at FC.
When you complete your research and if you decide on Marriott, I would recommend looking at Frenchmans Cove for a US territory purchase or Marbella, Spain if you chose an international option. they're all great for the most part, but those two have unique qualities not found in any other (ie location of property and views, etc.)
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Personally, I like Marriott and I have never been dissapointed, but as said before, there are many options. There most certainly is a bad economy and the system is currently in check as the market dictates, but I have great confidence in Marriott to remain on top by continuing to deliver on their extraordinary product and high quality as they have always done. Years ago when the TS market was corrupt and falling off the cliff, it was Marriott brand that legitimized the TS industry once again through its professionalisim and assured quality. Unfortunately, many other brands have now helped feed the industries demand of late and created an oversupply with much lack of genuine quality with lower demand to boot. Many resorts pictures are quite nice, but their service and actual quality are uncertain, especially over long term unlike Marriott's guarrantees.
Marriott seems to offer the best long term security than most. For instance, Marriott guarrantees that if they ever move to sell off an asset such as a resort club that they assure the owners receive first oportunities to opt out before the sale is made. They also guaarantee the cownership contracts are upheld with the new asset owner. This means by electing to opt out there is no penalty or fee and each individual owner will receive a share in the sale that would be reasonably valued with the suggested market value of the time share in return. This is huge in my book because all resorts age and deteriorate over time and it inevitably becomes a well-depreciated asset on the books and eventually becomes a target for consolidation. This naturally happens and you must focus on this aspect most when signing an ownership contract. I believe there is no one like Marriott in this regard. Many do not even share their policies in this regard and it is very important in my book. Frenchmans Cove is also an example of a unique piece of land that Marriott covets and likely will never give up. Ultimately, I take comfort in the fact it is not only abolutely beautiful, but it is US territory and I will be well protected/insured by Marriott. I feel the other brands aren't as consistant and do not offer the same level of legitimacy as Marriott, although I admit I am not as familiar in as much dept as I am with the Marriott contracts. Many other brands may offer nice surface visual effects and short term benefits as nice, but I always would question the long term committment and quality assurance when compared to the Marriott name.