Sheraton Buganvilias Resort Selects SPI Enterprise Software
February 28, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Systems Products International (SPI) announced its software has been selected to handle marketing, sales, reservations and finance information management for the vacation ownership resort Sheraton Buganvilias Resort, located in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
SPI Director of Sales Matt Brosious says, “SPI’s sales and marketing system will provide functionality that is ready to go ’out of the box’ and answers Sheraton Buganvilias’ need for vacation ownership software for marketing, in-house marketing, tours, sales, commissions, premium/gift tracking, reservations, club dues billing, receivables administration and resort operations. We are pleased to extend SPI’s footprint to another important Mexican resort property.. Mexico continues to exhibit excellent growth characteristics in tourism and vacation ownership resort development. SPI has made a major commitment to the market in Mexico and is very proud to be the leading software supplier in that country.”
According to Sheraton Buganvilias Project Director Alejandra Toca, “SPI perfectly meets and is extremely responsive to our needs. The fact that they have Spanish-speaking training and implementation staff was another important reason we chose SPI.”
Timeshare Software
Systems Products International (SPI) is a global leader in the development and implementation of innovative software for the vacation ownership industry. The company has created applications that span the entire vacation ownership enterprise from multi-channel marketing, to in-house marketing, sales, maintenance fee servicing, finance, points tracking, property management, rental program management, mortgage receivables and centralized reservations. Founded in 1978 and based in Miami, FL, SPI can be reached at 305-858-9505, sales@spiinc.com or www.spiinc.com.
Shell Vacations Club And LRA Worldwide Develop Partnership To Enhance The Vacation Ownership Prospect Experience
February 28, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Shell Vacations Club (SVC), a leader in the development, sales and operation of high-end vacation ownership properties throughout North America, has selected LRA Worldwide to help measure and enhance the SVC prospect experience. LRA will build a mystery shopping program designed to measure the performance of SVC sales representatives at thirteen sales offices.
LRA, a leading consulting company in the rapidly-growing discipline of Customer Experience Management (CEM), will recruit, hire, train and deploy mystery shoppers to evaluate the sales experience as if they were a prospect. The evaluations will take place in every market where SVC sales offices are located: Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Nevada, Canada, and Mexico.
“We are excited about implementing this program and using the data to enhance the experience with a partner of LRA’s caliber,” explained SVC Chairman and CEO Sheldon Ginsburg. “Their reputation in their industry, methodology for data collection, back-end analytical capabilities and overall point of view on the importance of customer experience made LRA the logical partner in this important endeavor.”
LRA’s Quality Assurance & Mystery Shopping practice works with a number of the leading hospitality companies in the world, conducting nearly 13,000 evaluations each year across all sectors of the industry. In addition to lodging clients such as Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Choice Hotels and Hyatt Hotels Corporation, LRA provides QA services to industry leaders in sports (Troon Golf, the PGA TOUR, Delaware North Companies), Conference Centers (ARAMARK), Timeshare (Interval International), Gaming (Churchill Downs, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos), Homebuilding (Toll Brothers) and Travel (The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey).
“Shell was seeking a partner who could utilize data to determine more efficient ways to sell and market,” said Jeff Gurtman, LRA’s Account Director for SVC. “We design and deploy our programs with a specific business goal in mind, regardless of whether that goal is improved efficiency, customer experience or sales numbers. The LRA approach was a natural fit for SVC.”
About Shell Vacations Club:
Shell Vacations LLC is one of the nation’s leading independent vacation ownership developers, currently operating 23 resorts in seven states, Mexico and Canada. The company’s 2,500 employees currently serve more than 100,000 owner/member families.
About LRA Worldwide, Inc:
LRA Worldwide, Inc. is a leading consulting, organizational development and research company that specializes in Customer Experience Management (CEM). LRA helps companies and brands design and deliver the optimal customer experience across all key touch points using an integrated suite of services that measure and improve service quality, customer satisfaction, employee performance, loyalty, customer advocacy and profitability. LRA specializes in “operationalizing the brand” – turning brand promise and customer strategy into operational reality. LRA’s CEM practice areas include Customer Experience Strategy Consulting, Standards Development & Content Management, Organizational Development & Training, Research and Quality Assurance & Mystery Shopping; these are either deployed together in a strategic manner to continually monitor and improve the customer experience or deployed individually to address a specific tactical client need.
LRA’s clients include some of the world’s leading companies and brands, including Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos, the PGA TOUR, Albertsons Supermarkets, the NBA and First Niagara Financial Group. For more information, visit the company’s Web site at www.LRAworldwide.com.
Fractional Ownership Makes The Dream Of Having A Home In Bermuda Possible
February 28, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Considered tourism properties, these new residence clubs are not affected by the same government restrictions making fractional ownership the hottest real estate trend to hit Bermuda.
Bermuda offers an exceptional location, beauty, climate and history, and enjoys the highest per capita income in the world, more than 50 percent higher than that of the U.S. No wonder sophisticated Americans dream of owning a beach vacation home in this little island paradise. Traditionally only available to the super-wealthy, owning a dream vacation home in Bermuda has become possible for a whole new set of travelers owing to the development of fractional ownership.
It is best for buyers to purchase their residences during the earliest phase, as there is typically a 30+ percent price increase between the first and final phases.
With only 12 homes for sale starting at $4.8 million and 10 condos with an average price of $2 million on the market, real estate opportunities are limited and virtually unattainable for most, according to Rego Sotheby’s International Realty.
A Bermuda government policy severely restricts the amount of real estate sold to foreigners, thus drastically limiting the amount of available island property. Considered tourism properties, these new residence clubs are not affected by the same government restrictions making fractional ownership the hottest real estate trend to hit Bermuda.
“Right now there’s an incredibly limited supply of very expensive, full-ownership real estate in Bermuda,” explains Buddy Rego of Rego Sotheby’s International Realty. “And these island homes cost on average $1,000 per square foot. So a 3,000 square foot home sells for around $3 million. As a result, luxury residence club homes, which sell at a fraction of the cost, are becoming increasingly popular. They are being bought by people who want to enjoy Bermuda resort living, but don’t want the multi-million dollar price tag.”
Buying at the very beginning of a residence club’s development can prove to be a great investment. According to The Helium Report (http://www.heliumreport.com/private-residence-clubs), a web site dedicated to luxury real estate, residence clubs, yachts and jets, “It is best for buyers to purchase their residences during the earliest phase, as there is typically a 30+ percent price increase between the first and final phases.”
On this island known for luxury hotels, The Reefs is consistently recognized as the best hotel in Bermuda by all the major travel publications including Condé Nast Traveler and Travel+Leisure. Bermuda’s newest residence club - The Reefs Club (http://www.reefsclub.com/) - is being built right next door to this renowned hotel and is in the first phase of development.
Currently The Reefs Club is offering chic, fully furnished two- and three-bedroom residences with unobstructed ocean views seen through a dramatic wall of windows. Homes are just steps away from the hotel’s three gourmet restaurants, a secluded pink sand beach, and world-class diving and snorkeling. Amenities include an owner’s lounge, infinity-edge pool, new full-service spa and rooftop putting green with impressive views of the Atlantic. A dedicated concierge coordinates dinner reservations, golf tee times and on-site spa appointments. Ownership at The Reefs Club starts at $345,000 and completion is planned for early 2009.
Tucker’s Point Club was the first combined luxury resort, private residence club and residential community on Bermuda. Located in Tucker’s Town, Tucker’s Point Club has two-, three- and four-bedroom villas overlooking Harrington Sound, Castle Harbour and a championship golf course. The Residence Club at Tucker’s Point is sold out and a second residence club at Harbour Point is due to open mid-year 2008. From initial groundbreaking to sell-out prices at Tucker’s Point Club rose approximately 30 percent – in line with what the Helium Report would suggest.
The Reefs Club and Tucker’s Point Club are members of The Elite AllianceSM, an exchange program offering owners luxury beach, ski and golf vacations at other Equity Residence ClubsSM around the world. Members may use their residences as often as they wish, subject to availability. Residence club ownership is ideal for those wishing to spend several weeks per year at their home, but don’t want the hassles and expenses of maintenance, security, taxes and insurance costs associated with whole ownership properties.
The Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort and Spa is a full-service resort that offers fractional ownership of one-, two- and three-bedroom suites. The resort is located on Hamilton Harbour with views of the capital city of Hamilton and surrounding areas. It combines traditional Bermudian architecture with modern features, maintaining the old world charm of a small boutique hotel and cottage community. Prices range from $129,000 to $360,000.
Fractional ownership at these Bermuda resorts gives owners deeded real estate that can be sold, willed or placed in a trust like any other form of real estate. Given the island’s convenient access with nonstop, two-hour flights from many East Coast cities, Bermuda enthusiasts are sure to embrace these new ownership opportunities for a lifetime of luxurious Bermuda vacations.
DCP InternationalSM (DCP), consultant to The Reefs Club and Tucker’s Point Club, pioneered the Equity Residence ClubSM concept in 1992 with the Deer Valley Club at Deer Valley Resort in Utah. Highly regarded in the industry, DCP has offered expertise in design, marketing and sales to private developers on more than 30 projects in the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe.
www.dcp-international.com
Score! Sheraton(R) Wins Hotel Partnership With CBS Sports and NCAA(R)
February 28, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Starwood’s Most Global Brand Launches Multi-Faceted Marketing Campaign to Support Partnership As Official Hotel Partner of the NCAA, Sheraton Invites Fans to Engage by Bringing Back An All-Time Favorite, the “Wave”
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts is teaming up with CBS Sports and the NCAA as an Official NCAA Corporate Partner. Sheraton is launching the sponsorship with a multi-faceted marketing campaign that includes TV, online and on-property activation, as well as a unique effort to engage fans by bringing back an all-time fan favorite - the “wave.” With 190 hotels located throughout the U.S., Sheraton will become the hotel of choice for loyal NCAA sports fans who follow and support their favorite college team while they travel.
The Sheraton brand’s NCAA partnership provides the global hotel brand with category exclusivity in 23 sports, including basketball and football, and marketing rights to all 88 NCAA Championship events and integrated media, including the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship. The partnership provides opportunities for Sheraton to reach approximately 1,200 member schools and 360,000 student-athletes across 50 states and is one component of a larger effort to dramatically differentiate the guest experience at the Sheraton hotels, currently rolling out nationwide.
Sheraton is supporting the partnership with a multi-faceted marketing campaign that includes television, online, on-property activation and promotional elements. Sheraton hotels have unveiled a new :30 TV spot, “Belong,” that airs during CBS Sports’ regular-season coverage of NCAA basketball, the 2008 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship — including the Men’s Final Four(R) semifinal games — and the National Championship game, through April 8.
Online media includes placements on CBSSports.com and NCAA.com. Additionally, Sheraton will sponsor NCAA March Madness on Demand(R), the online video player that provides live streaming video of all 64 games of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, March 6-April 14. Sheraton will also have a presence on NCAA.com, with banner ads and video player sponsorship, through Dec. 31, 2008. And, as a CBS College Sports Network All-Access Sponsor, Sheraton will receive both site media placements and integrated promotions.
To encourage NCAA fans to show their team spirit in a unique way, Sheraton is bringing back an all-time sports fan favorite worldwide, the “wave.” Beginning March 11, Sheraton is launching the world’s largest online wave at www.Sheraton.com/NCAA, a site that features video clips of individuals who have filmed and uploaded their own creative version of the wave. The clips are linked together to form one massive wave of fans showing their team spirit. Users also can search these clips to build their own personalized wave. A University of Kansas fan, for instance, could use the search tool to generate a wave consisting only of Kansas clips. Visitors are encouraged to film and upload their own “wave” and then enter a random drawing to win tickets to the NCAA 2009 Men’s Final Four.
“Sheraton is proud to be joining an exclusive list of NCAA partners and feels our brand values of community and belonging perfectly align with NCAA sports,” said Brian Povinelli, Vice President of Global Marketing for Sheraton. “We plan to utilize our designation as the Official Hotel Partner of the NCAA and our media relationship with CBS Sports to position Sheraton Hotels and Resorts as the home of the away game for all NCAA sports fans. Travel and sports go hand in hand and we will create experiences and opportunities for our guests that cater to fans and can’t be duplicated by our competitors.”
“CBS Sports is pleased to add Sheraton Hotels and Resorts to our impressive roster of NCAA Corporate Marketing partners. As Starwood’s most global brand, Sheraton will provide CBS Sports and the NCAA with unparalleled activation and branding opportunities for all of NCAA championships,” said Chris Simko Senior Vice President, CBS Sports Sales and Marketing and Director CBS Sports Properties Group. “In connecting college sports fans around the world, whether at home or on the road, making them feel like they truly “belong”, Sheraton will immediately become an important member of the NCAA’s student-athlete and fan community.”
“We’re extremely pleased that the Sheraton has joined the NCAA Corporate Partner family as the merger represents a union of two extremely visible and respected national brands,” said Greg Shaheen, NCAA senior vice president of basketball and business strategies. “Our focus continues to rest on high standards in academics and athletics, which is similar in nature to the top quality business principles and values that the Sheraton has demonstrated over the years.”
The Sheraton brand’s sponsorship also includes in-game billboards, on-air sponsorships, in-game programming and a NCAA-themed national promotion where guests can enter to win tickets to the Men’s Final Four semifinal and Championship games, a four-night stay at Sheraton Gunter Hotel San Antonio and more. Additional viral components include an online social network around NCAA championships to connect business travelers and Sheraton guests to their home teams: Sheraton guests will be able to link from Sheraton.com and Starwoodhotels.com to NCAA message boards, blogs, and other viral online communities about their alma mater or favorite college sport.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 900 properties in more than 100 countries and 155,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels and resorts with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis(R), The Luxury Collection(R), Sheraton(R), Westin(R), Four Points(R) by Sheraton, W(R), Le Meridien(R) and the recently announced Aloft(SM) and Element(SM) Hotels. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.
The NCAA is a membership-led nonprofit association of colleges and universities committed to supporting academic and athletics opportunities for more than 380,000 student-athletes at more than 1,000 member colleges and universities. Each year, more than 54,000 student-athletes compete in NCAA championships in Divisions I, II and III sports. Visit www.ncaa.org and www.ncaasports.com for more details about the Association, its goals and members and corporate partnerships that help support programs for student-athletes.
The NCAA is proud to have the following elite companies as official Corporate Champions-AT&T, Coca-Cola and Pontiac-and the following elite companies as official Corporate Partners-DiGiorno, Enterprise, The Hartford, Lowe’s, Sheraton and State Farm.
NCAA, Final Four, and March Madness are trademarks owned or licensed by the National Collegiate Athletic Association.
Interval Travel Earns Carnival Cruise Lines’ Pinnacle Award For The Eighth Consecutive Year
February 28, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Interval International, a leading provider of vacation services, announced that its full-service travel agency Interval Travel®, has received the Pinnacle Award from Carnival Cruise Lines for the eighth consecutive year. This tribute is the highest sales achievement recognition given to high-volume travel agencies that exhibit excellence in promoting and selling the “Fun Ship” cruise experience and demonstrate exceptional professionalism and outstanding support of the Carnival product.
“Travel agencies are an integral part of our distribution system, which is why we created the ‘Pinnacle Club’ to recognize those high-volume agencies like Interval Travel who are truly experts in their field and exhibit the highest levels of professionalism,” said Maurice Zarmati, Carnival’s vice president of sales.
“We are delighted to be a recipient of the Pinnacle Award because it acknowledges our cruise advisors’ top-level sales performance,” said Raul Estrada, vice president of Member Services for Interval International. “Carnival offers a variety of ‘fun’ cruise options that extend the vacation experiences that we provide to more than 1 million members served by our Miami-based staff.”
Research has shown that Interval’s U.S. members are approximately three times more likely than the typical U.S. adult to have taken a cruise vacation in the past three years. In addition, studies indicate that four out of every 10 Interval U.S. members intend to take a cruise vacation in the future.
The Interval Travel Cruise Desk has operated since 1997 in response to the increased interest in cruising, and serves the company’s North American consumer member families. In 1999, Interval introduced its cruise exchange option, which allows members of Interval’s upgraded benefits program – Interval Gold® – to relinquish their timeshare week toward a cruise vacation. The Interval Travel Cruise Desk is a Cruise Lines International Association booking agency or “CLIA” certified.
About Interval International
Interval International is a leading provider of exchange, travel, and leisure services to resort developers and vacationers worldwide. Based in Miami, Florida, the company has been a pioneer and innovator in serving the vacation ownership market for more than 30 years. Today, Interval has a network of over 2,300 resorts in excess of 75 countries and offers its clients and nearly 2 million member families high-quality products and programs through its 28 offices in 17 countries. Interval is part of IAC, which owns and operates more than 60 diversified brands in sectors being transformed by the Internet, online and offline. Other IAC companies include Ask.com, HSN, LendingTree, Match.com, and Ticketmaster.
About Carnival Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines is a member of the exclusive World’s Leading Cruise Lines alliance, which also includes Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Seabourn Cruise Line, Costa Cruises and Windstar Cruises. Together, these members share a commitment to quality and value, offering cruise vacations that appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets and sail to some of the world’s most exciting destinations. Carnival is the leader in the contemporary market of the cruise industry.
Hilton Vilamoura And Royal Holiday To Develop Business Through Impact’s Film Production Expertise
February 28, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Hilton International Grand Vacations and Royal Holiday have tasked Impact, the industry leading producer of Point of Sale, Take Home and promotional films, with their latest business development tools.
Impact will be creating new Point of Sale and Take Home films for the Hilton Vilamoura Resort and Royal Holiday in Mexico over the course of the next few months. They will include extensive on site filming and client testimonials in the creation of the perfect emotive films.
All the footage, including testimonials will be shot using the latest high definition technology, ensuring the film creates maximum desire within the viewer - with location filming taking place in Cancun, Cozumel, Ixtapa, Acapulco, London and Paris for Royal Holiday; and in Vilamoura on the Algarve for Hilton.
Simon Parris, head of film, Impact: “Vacations, holidays and time shares are bought for emotive, personal reasons. Films are the perfect catalyst for our emotions and passions. The right film can re-create a reality in front of the customers eyes, creating belief in the plethora of possibilities and potential. These new films will help Hilton and Royal Holiday move closer to their potential customers, increasing efficiency, sales and ultimately developing their business and profits.”
A spokeman for Royal Holiday said….. “Working with Impact is a new and exciting experience for our team. Our current film was created several years ago and lacks the flair and creativity that we need. Impact regularly deliver for their clients - their unique approach to the brief and focus on the emotive issues ensured they won the business – but also increased our expectations. We are certain that Impact will exceed them.”
For almost 20 years, Impact has been creating memorable, emotive and effective films, for the world’s best known vacation providers, increasing their sales success and on-site profitability. They have won the ARDA Best Film no less than 9 times at and continue to break new ground with their unique approach, based on an understanding of the Dream Society and the Art of Seduction.
Impact clients include: Marriott Vacation Club International, Accor Vacation Club, Sol Melia and Hilton Grand Vacation Club.
Impact will be exhibiting as part of the Generator Systems booth at the ARDA convention from 6th to 10th April, 2008.
CondotelWare Software Installed at The Reef Atlantis
February 28, 2008 | Leave a Comment
The 497 condo-hotel property being managed with CondotelWare software solution
Paradise Island, Bahamas - The Reef Atlantis has installed CondotelWare to manage its brand new, 497-unit condo-hotel property. In addition to installing the CondotelWare software solution at the resort, The Reef Atlantis also contracted to have CondotelWare interface with its existing hotel property management system. CondotelWare has a proven history of successfully interfacing with a wide range of hotel property management systems.
Allen Rice, Chief Marketing Officer for CondotelWare, says, “The CondotelWare system provides the tools needed to run a successful condo-hotel, with powerful applications in fee allocations, expense and revenue tracking, room rotation and prioritization, guest experience management, and more. We are excited about our relationship with The Reef Atlantis.”
The Reef Atlantis features Turnberry’s world-renowned residential professionalism. It brings together the finest of Atlantis, Paradise Island, and Turnberry luxury condominiums and condominium hotels.
For more information about The Reef Atlantis, please visit their website at www.atlantis.com
Job Vacancies
February 28, 2008 | Leave a Comment
For a wide variety of timeshare, vacation ownership, fractional and real estate jobs visit www.timesharestaff.com
Timeshare News
February 27, 2008 | Leave a Comment
The Timeshare Blog offers daily news and information about the timeshare industry, bringing together timeshare news and press releases from around the world in one place.
This website also incorporates relevant news about: fractional ownership, vacation ownership, condotels, luxury hotels, private residences, residence clubs, destination clubs, cruises, yachts, jets, real estate, travel and leisure.
Go to the main timeshare news home page.
Get details of where to send your timeshare news / press releases
Send Us Your News
February 27, 2008 | Leave a Comment
We welcome news and press releases from any company involved in timeshare, vacation ownership, fractionals, private residence clubs, destination clubs, hotels, resorts, air travel, cruises, hospitality, real estate and leisure.
Please send your news or press release to news@thetimeshareblog.com
Please feel free to include images where available for possible use and inclusion in the timeshare news section for the next edition of Perspective Magazine.
Free Timeshare Suppliers Guide
February 27, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Perspective Magazine is distributing their annual print directory for suppliers of products and services to the timeshare industry in June / July with an estimated circulation of 20,000 copies.
You can order your
FREE copy of the Suppliers Guide Here
Plus you can view the invaluable online version right now at www.timesharesuppliers.com which holds more than 600 listings across 31 categories.
Seasons Holidays Enjoys Second Year As Queen Mother Champion Chase Sponsor
February 27, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Bristol-based Seasons Holidays is one of Europe’s leading holiday ownership developers, with six resorts in the British Isles and three in Europe, was the first sponsor of a race in 2007 that has enjoyed an illustrious 49-year history. The race was won in 2007 by Voy Per Ustedes.
Edward Gillespie, Cheltenham’s Managing Director, said: “We are very pleased to have found a dynamic British-based consumer brand, Seasons Holidays, that we can work with to continue to take this great race forward.” Read more
OTE European Timeshare Business Forum 2007
February 27, 2008 | Leave a Comment
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Las Vegas, USA 6-10 April 2008: American Resort Development Association (ARDA)
February 26, 2008 | Leave a Comment
The ARDA Convention & Exposition is the industry’s leading event that provides new directions, information, and services for all resort development professionals. Participate in the largest industry expo, attend cutting-edge educational seminars and experience first-class entertainment.
Held At The Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas from the 6-10 April 2008.
For more information visit www.arda.org
(Timeshare Staff Ltd / Perspective International Ltd are exhibiting at the event at booth #365. Feel free to contact us to arrange an appointment at +1 407 793 2343. Perspective Magazine is included in the delegate registration bags ensuring all 4,000+ attendees receive a copy, making the April Edition’s total circulation more than 10,000 print copies!)
England, UK 7 March 2008: Wellness Rejuventation Rooms Launch Event
February 26, 2008 | Leave a Comment
On 7th March 2008 before the opening of the TATOC event, Wellness Rejuvenation Rooms will be revealing their new suite of wellness products to a selection of developers and hoteliers, which offer a better stay experience for guests and additional revenue for resorts and hotels.
For more information request a brochure here
England, UK 7-9 March 2008: The Association of Timeshare Owners Committees (TATOC)
February 26, 2008 | Leave a Comment
TATOC have announced details of their imminent annual conference, which is being held on the 7th - 9th March in Warrington, Stretton, England.
As well as a fascinating line up of speakers, who will cover a suite of interesting subjects, including some essential and provocative topics, TATOC will use the event as a platform to announce radical and exciting new plans for their future.
Please click here to download a pdf version of the conference agenda.
If you have an interest in attending the event please visit www.tatoc.co.uk
(Perspective International Ltd and Perspective Magazine are an event sponsor and Paul Mattimoe, President & CEO is a guest speaker)
Dubai, UAE 11-12 March 2008: Vacation Ownership Investment Conference (VOIC)
February 26, 2008 | Leave a Comment
For more information on this event click here
The Fourth Annual Vacation Ownership Investment Conference returns to Dubai on the 11th and 12th March 2008 held at the prestigious Arabian Court, One & Only Royal Mirage.
(Perspective Magazine are an Official Media Sponsor of this event and Paul Mattimoe, President & CEO of Perspective International Ltd will be joining the panel of experts for “A Key to Success in Shared Ownership - Finding the Right Personnel”)
CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
11th March
Opening Remarks - Welcome to Vacation Ownership Industry Conference
David R Clifton, Managing Director, Middle East, Europe, Africa and Asia, Interval International
Global Industry Overview
Darren Ettridge, Vice President Resort Sales & Services (Europe), Interval International
Gain an understanding of the size and scope of the global timeshare, fractional and private residence club businesses. This session will focus on why vacation ownership has long been one of the fastest-growing sectors of the hospitality industry and why consumers like this product.
A Region Set for Take Off - Shared Ownership in the Middle East and North Africa
Sherif Khalil, Regional Manager, Middle East and North Africa, Interval International
A review of the state of the vacation industry in the Middle East and North Africa. Discover why these markets are positioned for growth, the products being developed and who’s buying.
Profitable Strategies - Exploring Timeshare’s Multiple Profit-Centres
David R Clifton
Explore timeshare’s multiple profit-centres and examine independent developer and hospitality company motivations for entering the business. Learn how timesharing allows developers to maximise profits, speed up cash flow and spread the risk. Discover the reasons why most mixed-use developments today are including a timeshare component.
Interval International and the Role of Exchange
Craig M Nash, Chairman and CEO, Interval International
Nima Abu-Wardeh leads a question and answer session with Craig Nash focusing on the role of exchange in the vacation ownership industry.
Keynote Speaker Address - Hyatt’s Other Hospitality Product
John M Burlingame, Executive Vice President, Hyatt Vacation Ownership Inc.
The importance of maintaining brand values and incorporating fun, flexibility and long-term value into the Hyatt Vacation Club.
The Hot Topic - Fractional Ownership and the Preferred Residences Programme
Jose Ventura, Executive Director Resort Sales & Servicing UAE, Interval International
Learn how fractionals, considered an attractive alternative to a second home, differ from traditional timeshares, and what elements must be included in a successful project. Discover Preferred Residences a new branded exchange programme for fractional properties and private residence clubs.
Starwood’s Secret Success – The Importance of Vacation Ownership to their Global Brand
Matthew E Avril, President and Managing Director of Operations, Starwood Vacation Ownership
Learn about Starwood Vacation Ownership, one of the best-kept secrets of the global Starwood hospitality brand.
The Experiences of a Middle Eastern Timeshare Sales and Marketing Pioneer
Al Mohannad Sharafuddin, Chairman, Arabian Falcon
Key lessons learned from a seasoned Middle East timeshare expert with nearly ten years experience in marketing and selling timeshare in the region. This includes selling out the first timeshare project in Dubai.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Getting Started in the Shared Ownership Business
A panel of industry experts gives advice on starting up in the industry and answers your questions on entering the vacation ownership business.
Day one closes at 17:25 and is followed by a Cocktail Reception
12th March
Dubailand - The Catalyst for a Dubai Tourism and Timeshare Boom
Abdul Wahab Al Halabi, Chief Operating Officer,Dubailand
Dubailand is one of the most phenomenal tourism and leisure projects of the 21st Century. This session will demonstrate how Dubailand will boost tourism and vacation ownership growth in Dubai.
Vacation Ownership by Design - Finding the Right Product and Programme for the Market
A panel of experts discusses finding the right product and programme for the market. This is one of the critical decisions that needs to be addressed when entering the vacation ownership business.
The Legislative Dynamic - The Importance of a Balanced Regulatory Platform
Tom Bell, Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, Interval International
Creating a sound regulatory platform that benefits consumers, industry participants and government is essential to the successful development of the vacation ownership industry. A focus on the current legislative climate in Dubai and the region.
Managing Success - The Role of the Management Company
A guide to the importance of properly managing your entry into the shared ownership business.
The Marriott Perspective
Marriott Vacation Club International is one of the largest shared ownership companies in the world. Explore the reasons why Marriott is committed to the industry and its view on the development of vacation ownership in the Middle East.
Lunch Sponsored by Free Bird Tourist Resorts L.L.C
A Key to Success in Shared Ownership - Finding the Right Personnel
A panel discussion on how finding the right people plays a vital role in the success of a vacation ownership development.
Meet the Industry Leaders
CEOs and the leading figures behind some of the most successful companies involved in vacation ownership today, gather together to discuss the opportunities and challenges ahead. Nima Abu-Wardeh moderates and puts your questions to the panel.
The conference closes at 17:10 and is followed by the Gala Dinner sponsored by Arabian Falcon
For more information on this event click here
W(R) Hotels Makes Landmark Entry into North Africa with W Marrakech
February 26, 2008 | Leave a Comment
New Executive Appointment At Accor
February 26, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Accor Première Vacation Club, based in Robina on the Gold Coast has today announced a Senior Executive appointment with CRAIG WOOD being appointed as Executive Director – Marketing, effective immediately.
Craig has an impressive history in the hotel branded Vacation Club Industry with his most recent role as GM and Regional Director of Marriott Ownership Resorts in the Middle East.
“Craig brings with him an impressive history in the hotel branded Vacation Club Industry – one of the fastest growing tourism segments worldwide (Australian Timeshare and Holiday Ownership Council study 07), and we look forward to having him on board in Australia to help us grow and expand into new markets,” said John Osborne, CEO of Accor Première Vacation Club.
“His wealth of knowledge on emerging markets will be necessary for our growth outside our traditional Australian and New Zealand markets. We recently commenced expansion into Asia, with our first Club Apartments at The Novotel Nusa Dua, Bali in May 2007, and our future growth is very important, so we offer our Members an even greater choice and holiday experience.”
About Accor Première Vacation Club
Accor Première Vacation Club is operated by a subsidiary of Accor, the largest hotel group in the Asia Pacific region with operations across 16 countries, covering a full spectrum of locations and hotel styles, from luxury to budget. The Club has over 22,000 Member families who enjoy holidays at 19 Club Properties.
About Accor
Accor, the European leader and a major global group in hotels, the global leader in services to corporate clients and public institutions, operates in nearly 100 countries with 170,000 employees. It offers to its clients over 40 years of expertise in its two core businesses:
- Hotels, with the Sofitel, Pullman, Novotel, Mercure, Suitehotel, Ibis, all seasons, Etap Hotel, Formule 1 and Motel 6 brands, representing more than 4,000 hotels and nearly 500,000 rooms in 90 countries, as well as strategically related activities, such as Lenôtre.
- Services, with 30 million people in 40 countries benefiting from Accor Services products in human resources, marketing services and expense management.
BJETS Plans Asia’s First Fractional Ownership Operation
February 26, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Asia is set to welcome its first dedicated fractional ownership operation in the second quarter of 2008 after BJETS, a Singapore-based company, unveiled its plans at the show.
The company announced firm orders for 20 Cessna Citation CJ2+ and 20 Hawker 850XPs and 900XPs. The first aircraft will be delivered within a month and 15 are expected to be in service by the end of 2008.
All will be registered in India, and based primarily in Mumbai and Singapore. Apart from fractional ownership, the company will also offer block charter and aircraft management services.
“BJETS will have the biggest fleet of private jets in Asia in its very first year of operations,” says Mark Baier, BJETS chief executive.
“There are no dedicated business jet fleets in Asia, and we provide guaranteed availability for our customers. It is something the region direly needs and we believe that our model can be very successful.”
Its major shareholder is the privately held USA-based investment firm Briley Group, whose chief executive, Bala Ramamoorthy, set up BJETS in 2006. Its other backer is Indian Hotels Company, operator of the Taj brand of hotels in India and part of international conglomerate Tata Group.
India’s growing economic wealth has led many in the industry to believe it represents the biggest potential for the growth of business aviation in the region.
But the country also faces numerous challenges, including its woeful infrastructure and an acute shortage of maintenance facilities dedicated to business aviation.
One experienced charter broker based in South-East Asia welcomed BJETS’ entry but cautioned that it faced numerous challenges.
“Asia is still pretty restrictive when it comes to landing permits, overflights and even basic things like ground handling,” he says.
“But maybe this is just what the region needs - someone who has the financial backing taking a punt and putting aircraft around the region. It is a risky move to own your aircraft and put it out there, but it could also pay off very handsomely if it proves to be successful.”
St. Regis Makes the Next Stop on Its Global Expedition with the Debut of the St. Regis Bahrain
February 26, 2008 | Leave a Comment
St. Regis Continues Dynamic Growth Path as it Announces Plans to Expand in the Middle East
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) announced plans to debut a St. Regis hotel in Bahrain, one of the most thriving travel destinations in the Middle East. The St. Regis Bahrain will be located on a reclaimed island facing Manama’s city centre. Scheduled to open in 2011, the 300-room hotel will introduce an unrivaled dimension of luxury and bespoke service at one of the world’s best addresses.
“We define St. Regis by our guests and the experiences and services they demand and expect. Nothing less than an unrivaled dimension of luxury and bespoke service - from arrival to departure, and beyond - will do,” said Ross Klein, President of Starwood’s Luxury Brands Group. “The thriving city of Bahrain engages visitors with its eclectic mix of mosques, markets, skyscrapers and casinos, creating a richly textured cosmopolitan setting perfect for our global St. Regis guests. From Bahrain to Buenos Aires, Mexico City to Macau, St. Regis is committed to designing custom-tailored guest experiences in the best addresses around the world.”
Boasting five thousand years of history, Bahrain is one of most frequented destinations in the Middle East due to its rich archaeological treasures, natural beauty, and rapidly evolving contemporary culture. Reachable via two access roads, the reclaimed island will be located just to the west of Reef Island and less than a mile north of Manama’s Seef, the capital’s bustling, commercial district. Just a 15-minute drive from Bahrain International Airport, The St. Regis Bahrain will be close to both Bahrain Bay and the King Fahd Causeway - a 15-mile bridge connecting Bahrain with Saudi Arabia. Guests can explore a variety of nearby attractions including traditional and modern shops at Manama Souq, the Al Fateh Mosque and the Bahrain Grand Prix - the only Formula One race track in the Middle East.
The St. Regis Bahrain will offer an impressive range of facilities including four restaurants, a large spa, and more than 3,000 square feet of meeting and conference space. Following in the tradition of the legendary St. Regis Hotel, New York, The St. Regis Bahrain will offer a sophisticated, seductive ambiance, enhanced by meticulous design touches, fresh flower arrangement, exquisite cuisine and the renowned St. Regis Butler service. Trained in the English tradition, the butlers provide ever-present yet unobtrusive service while anticipating guest needs and customizing each guest’s stay according to his or her specific tastes and preferences.
“We are thrilled to introduce St. Regis to Bahrain following the recent announcement of the St. Regis Hotel in Doha, Qatar and The St. Regis Cairo, Egypt,” said Roeland Vos, President Europe, Africa and Middle East. “The signing of The St. Regis Bahrain is another sign of Starwood’s commitment to develop all its brands in the fast-growing Middle East region, offering opportunities for guests and visitors to experience a new level of luxury, elegance and service.”
About St. Regis Hotels & Resorts
Combining timeless sophistication with modern luxury, the St. Regis brand is uncompromising in its commitment to excellence. Founded by John Jacob Astor with the landmark St. Regis Hotel, New York over a century ago, St. Regis is known for delivering an unrivaled dimension of luxury, bespoke service and refined elegance at the best addresses in the world. The brand plans to further its legacy globally and will unveil highly anticipated St. Regis properties in Atlanta-Buckhead, Baha Mar, The Bahamas, Bahia Beach, Puerto Rico, Bal Harbour and Deer Crest in North America, and in Buenos Aires, Costa Rica, Mexico City and Punta Mita in Latin America. In Asia, St. Regis has announced plans to open properties in Bali, Bangkok, Jakarta, Lhasa, Macao, Osaka and Tianjin. In the Middle East, St. Regis will expand in Cairo and Doha. Personalized service and amenities, enviable locations and luxuriously localized design are recognized worldwide as hallmarks of the St. Regis experience. For more information on St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.stregis.com.
About Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the