Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico – The recent release of Paul and Christy Akeo, a Michigan couple who endured a stressful month in a Cancun prison due to a timeshare dispute, highlights the potential risks for travelers who purchase these agreements in other countries. Their difficult experience underscores the complexities of navigating legal systems in a foreign country and provides important lessons for tourists seeking to avoid similar stressful and potentially risky situations.
Paul and Christy Akeo are coming home. Mission accomplished. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/lZFJCsD0FO
— Congressman Tom Barrett (@RepTomBarrett) April 4, 2025
The Akeos’ trouble began with a financial disagreement concerning their timeshare, which unfortunately escalated into serious accusations of credit card fraud and breach of contract, leading to their unexpected imprisonment for almost a month. Now that they are thankfully returning home, their experience offers valuable guidance for travelers aiming to steer clear of timeshare-related problems.
Smart Steps to Take Before Buying a Timeshare Abroad:
The most crucial step for travelers is to approach any timeshare offer with caution and a critical mindset. Timeshare presentations often employ persuasive sales tactics designed to encourage immediate decisions. To protect yourself, consider these points before signing any contract:
- Resist Pressure to Decide Quickly: Reputable timeshare companies will allow you sufficient time to review the agreement and seek independent advice. If you feel rushed or pressured, it’s wise to step back and reconsider.
- Carefully Review the Entire Contract: This is essential. Ensure you fully understand all the terms, including payment schedules, ongoing maintenance fees, cancellation policies, and any limitations on usage. If the contract is not in your native language, obtain a clear, translated version for thorough review.
- Consider Seeking Legal Counsel: Before committing to an international contract like a timeshare, consulting with a lawyer experienced in international property law or timeshare agreements can be beneficial. This could involve legal professionals in your home country and the country where the timeshare is located.
- Understand Cancellation Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the specific steps and deadlines for canceling the agreement if you change your mind. Cancellation laws can vary significantly between countries.
- Research the Timeshare Company: Before providing any financial information, investigate the reputation and track record of the company selling the timeshare and the management company involved. Look for online reviews and any history of complaints or legal issues.
Being a Responsible Timeshare Owner Abroad:
If you already own a timeshare in another country, these practices can help minimize the risk of disputes:
- Ensure Timely Payments: Adhere to the agreed-upon payment schedules for all fees, including annual maintenance costs. Failure to do so can lead to breaches of contract.
- Maintain Thorough Records: Keep copies of all contracts, payment confirmations, and any written communication with the timeshare company.
- Understand Usage Guidelines: Be clear on the procedures for booking your stays, the available travel periods, and any restrictions that may apply to your ownership.
- Communicate in Writing: If you have any questions or concerns, communicate them to the management company in writing and retain copies of all correspondence.
Steps to Take if a Timeshare Dispute Arises:
Even with careful planning, disagreements can occur. If you find yourself in a dispute with a timeshare company abroad:
- Attempt Direct Resolution: Your initial step should be to communicate clearly and calmly with the management company to try and reach a mutually agreeable solution. Document all interactions.
- Consult a Local Attorney: If direct communication is unsuccessful, seek advice from a lawyer in the country where the timeshare is located who specializes in timeshare or property law.
- Contact Your Embassy or Consulate: The U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the foreign country can provide resources such as lists of local attorneys but cannot directly intervene in legal matters.
- Explore Alternative Dispute Resolution: Consider options like mediation or arbitration, which can sometimes offer a less adversarial and costly way to resolve disagreements outside of the court system.
The experience of the Akeo couple underscores the importance of exercising caution and conducting thorough due diligence when considering international property agreements such as timeshares. By taking these proactive steps, travelers can significantly reduce their risk of encountering similar distressing situations and better protect their travel investments.
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