"The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page," said St. Augustine. Never has travel been so convenient as it is today. Despite rising fuel costs, travel by plane is still affordable if you're willing to look for the best deals.

Hotel costs, however, are also on the rise. One alternative to consider is to buy timeshare. There are several benefits to owning over reserving a hotel. First, a hotel room price is never simple, there are always taxes and fees added that have to be paid at the end of your stay. With a timeshare, you pay the purchase price and a small yearly maintenance fee and that's it! No surprise fees or extra expenses. Just check in and take advantage of the amenities that many offer, like a pool complex, tennis courts, horseback riding, or any number of local activities.

Although the majority of owners say they enjoyed their timeshares, for various reasons they sometimes sell them. Take the opportunity to save some money off the original purchase price. You can find dozens of accommodations through a timeshare reseller.

Knowing you'll always have great accommodations gives you piece of mind. With so many styles to choose from, you're sure to find a good fit. Resorts range from studios to 4 bedroom, 4 bath homes with lockout features, enabling you to rent out half of it and use the other half. Some resorts have all-inclusive features. All you have to do is pack your suitcase and you're off. Purchasing through a RCI timeshare program also enables you to exchange your resort for others located around the world.

Some of the latest global trends for travelers include Eco-tourism, socially responsible tourism and thrill seeker adventures. These include tours of the jungle in the Venezuelan Andes, the Bolivian Amazon, or venturing onto the Karkum Canopy Walkway in Ghana. Make sure you spend time before your trip becoming acquainted with local customs so as not to inadvertently offend hosts. It's also very important to follow established rules. For instance, don't decide in the middle of your trek to find a shortcut home. Guides know the area better than you do and are aware of dangers that you haven't considered. Socially responsible vacations include building schools in remote locations or helping to rehabilitate elephants on a nature preserve. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, try heli bungee over a gorge or whitewater rafting down the Colorado River in the United States.

With every vacation you take, you can use your timeshare to see more of the world without giving up the sumptuous accommodations you prefer. It has been said that home is where your story begins, make yours an epic adventure by seeing the world.