Lucy Williams is an Orlando-based writer for Starwood Vacation Ownership and thelobby.com's expert on the inside scoop of vacation ownership.

If travel and vacation are big priorities in your life, you should check out Starwood Vacation Ownership. When you stay in a hotel, you receive a receipt for your vacation but, aside from wonderful memories, your vacation essentially ends upon your return home. With vacation ownership, owners receive deeded real estate to enjoy year after year. Resort prices are locked in at today's rates, but owners will enjoy increased benefits with the development and enhancement of the resort.

If you love the hiking and skiing, you might consider an annual week of outdoor adventures at Sheraton Mountain Vista in the Colorado Rockies. That time will be available for you as long as you wish. So what happens if you want a change of pace and need a dose of tropical weather? Simply trade your use week for similar accommodations at Harborside Resort at Atlantis or one of many other Starwood resort destinations. Your vacation is flexible and can be traded or exchanged. Your vacation can even be converted to Starwood Preferred Guest Starpoints -- redeemable for free nights at more than 850 Starwood hotels and resorts in over 95 countries. There are a multitude of other reasons to consider vacation ownership. To find out more about it, explore the frequently asked questions or request more information.