I've spoken to many people who have walked away from timeshares since the annual fees began to escalate a number of years ago. Most mentioned transfer, exit, or termination fees. A few paid without bothering to re-read their original agreements. Some were threatened with a negative listing on their credit report. Only one actually had a claim posted on their credit report and it disappeared when they disputed the claim.
Things to remember:
1. Unless these fees are included on your original agreement, they are not valid. Take the time to read front and back of your timeshare agreement.
2. Your original timeshare agreement will tell you what country's laws govern your contract. Most are Netherland Antilles or France. This means no US timeshare laws apply (most timeshare companies are US based).
3. Lessor (resort owner) can establish policies to support additional fees but unless you (Lessee) have agreed to those policies you are not required to pay them.
4. By re-reading your lease you may notice that your resort has changed some of their guarantees (Check in /Check out times, maid service, length of stay). You have the right to challenge these changes.