Autumn is the most underrated season at Lake Tahoe for reasons locals don’t understand.

This time of year the entire basin is awash in a spectrum of color that rivals New England. A few maples dot the landscape, but it’s the quaking aspens that stand out in the Sierra.

The green, silver dollar like leaves seem to steal from an artist’s palette when it comes time to changing. Soft hues of yellow transform into vibrant bursts like a ray of sunshine, while orange and red add to the diversity.

Other foliage is turning as well, making for a kaleidoscope of color.

It’s just a short drive or bike ride from the Americana to capture the wonders of nature. Pioneer Trail is awash in color. Go in either direction from the property and you won’t be disappointed.

One of the great things about South Lake Tahoe in the fall is the crowds have dissipated. You might have your favorite trail to yourself. And just think, no one will be blocking the view of those aspens. Just make sure the battery in your camera is charged.

Another advantage to visiting Tahoe in the fall is restaurants are less crowded. You aren’t apt to be left hungry if spontaneously you decide to eat out.

The same can’t be said for all the nighttime entertainment options, but it is still easier to get a concert ticket now than it was in the summer.

With it being slower at most businesses, it means calling for a massage last-minute might not be a bad idea, going out to breakfast won’t mean waiting in line, nor will you be stuck in traffic.

Lake Tahoe in the fall is all about falling back into that relaxed state of mind that every day life keeps you from.

Who doesn’t want a paid vacation? Apparently, people who don’t own a timeshare.

Buying into either the Stardust or Americana properties in South Lake Tahoe means you can vacation in economic times like these. Your lodging is paid for or already part of your monthly expenses. You don’t have to save for a vacation once you have a time-share because the lodging, which is often the most expensive component of travel, is not an issue.

An incentive to get into the market now and start using your time is that many of the restaurants and attractions throughout the Lake Tahoe Basin are offering deals to lure visitors to their establishments.

So many owners at the Stardust and Americana remark on how a sense of community has developed through the years. Families become friends, they see each others children grow-up as they share the same week year after year.

Timeshares mean many things - sharing time away from your primary home, sharing time with new friends, sharing time in a community you call your second home.

It’s definitely not the sterile hotel setting.

What are some of your experiences with owning a timeshare? Feel free to leave a comment.