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Britain’s top basketball league (The BBL), today announced plans to work on new marketing initiatives and strategic alliances with key players within the European timeshare industry.

The league which consists of 12 professional teams based in key cities throughout the UK, attracts family audiences in excess of a million through its season from September to May and in addition through its extensive community programmes.

With the Demographic profile sitting within the ABC1 sector the sport attracts a large percentage of family followers, the marketing synergies between timeshare appear clear for all to see.

Commenting on this new initiative Vice Chair of the BBL and Director of the Sheffield Sharks is Sarah Backovic.

“Basketball is a growing and successful sport in the UK. This is best evidenced in the recent Sport England report outlining basketball as the third most participated team sport in the country.” said Sarah. “However, we see this as an opportunity to further increase crowd growth and ensure the league is on a stronger financial and progressive footing”.

“ Our focus on the timeshare sector was encouraged by David Lilley, who has been a great ambassador for Timeshare and a strong advocate of all the positive elements the industry can extend to us,” continued Backovic. “ We are interested in promoting holiday offers and adding value to our supporters through timeshare opportunities, we believe this will be an appealing concept.”

Basketball’s profile enjoyed significant exposure when the last nine games, including the Championship finals, were televised by Setanta Sports 1 and the parties are currently in negotiation for the 2008-09 season.

To add to the partnership programme, British Basketball recently agreed a five year multi media deal with the Press Association sport division, PA Sport.

The Director responsible for basketball and multi media development is James Mcevoy who explains the vision for any potential partnership;

“With the Olympic Games being staged here in 2012, the sports industry as a whole is in profile more than usual. Interestingly, Basketball is the number one team sport within the Olympic programme and there are opportunities for the forward thinking timeshare players to capitalise” stated Mcevoy. “For example, the 120 plus timeshare resorts in the UK alone would attract a fair number of Olympic spectators seeking to be accommodated in comfort during their stay.”

In line with this vision PA Sport have developed a number of sponsorship and marketing opportunities. These range from television sponsorship opportunities for the more serious players, to ticket insert, database and website promotions.

“ Suffice to say we are looking to work with timeshare players who meet their strict customer service standards”, continued Mcevoy.

For further information interested parties should contact James Mcevoy at PA Sport via email at James.mcevoy@pa-sport.com.

Camp Pendleton Marine Staff Sergeant’s Family Selected for All-Expense Paid Trip

“Hey Sergeant, how about a free family vacation?” This is how Staff Sergeant Nicky Mota heard the news that The Villa Group had invited his entire family to enjoy an all-expense paid trip to the exclusive, family resort Villa Del Palmar Beach Resort and Spa. Mota, a returning Iraq War Veteran with several tours of duty in the mid-east, his wife Amber and children Gabriel (7) and Sara (11) are on their way to some well deserved family time in Cabo San Lucas.

The family was nominated by Gabriel’s third grade teacher, Jon Schwartz, at Camp Pendleton (Oceanside, CA) where all the kids in the public school on the base have a deployed Marine as one of their parents.

With airfare arranged by Alaska Airlines at the request of The Villa Group, the family departs June 26 for a four day trip that includes deep sea fishing, dining and entertainment excursions into the vacation paradise of Baja California.

Alejandro De La Garza, Director of Corporate Sales says “The Villa Group knows how much military families have sacrificed much for their country. We are proud to be able to support their efforts in a small way and honor Sgt. Mota’s family on behalf all our military personal who endure long and multiple deployments. “

Jon Schwartz, Gabriel Mota’s teacher who championed the family says “Hats off to The Villa Group, owners of the resort, for stepping up to the plate and donating this all-expense paid trip. The gift that this family is receiving is but a token of what we can all give back to these great Americans.”

Founded in 1984, The Villa Group is one of Mexico’s leading privately owned real estate development companies. Its portfolio features beachfront timeshare resorts located in Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, and Los Cabos, as well as well as fractional and full-ownership luxury real estate developments. Additionally, new timeshare and fractional properties are slated to open in Loreto and Cancun in 2010.

98 per cent of commuters admit they would take a sneaky look at a laptop being used nearby

A recent poll by Hypertec, the specialist supplier of memory, storage and personal workspace solutions has found that 70 per cent of mobile workers worry about commuters viewing private work whilst travelling on a train. 16 per cent of respondents stated that fellow passengers often look at their screen, whilst 40 per cent stated that they would simply not work on busy trains because of the potential risk.

Hypertec also polled rail commuters on whether they would look at a fellow passengers screen and a massive 98 per cent admitted that they would. 65 per cent of these said it was ‘human nature’ to have a sneaky look, and 33 per cent said they would look if they were bored or if the screen was in full view to them.

The findings come as Hypertec announces that it has introduced a new range of security laptop screens from Dicota. Using the latest microlouvre technology, the screens restrict viewing to just 60 degrees (30 degrees either side of the perpendicular), preventing unauthorised viewing.

The Dicota privacy protectors black out displayed information unless the viewer is directly in front of the screen, it also protects eyes and laptop screens by blocking UV rays and reducing glare. The screen is easily removable for non-private applications such as presentations.

Lianne Denness, managing director, Hypertec comments, “In order to meet the growing needs of businesses for solutions that protect private files being seen by unauthorised individuals, we are pleased to announce the addition of the new privacy protector screens from Dicota, to our Accessories range. Our survey shows that a large number of employees and organisations see working in public places as a potential threat and have stopped doing so in an effort to combat members of the public viewing private documents.

The new privacy protectors will allow mobile workers the freedom to continue working from trains and other public places, whilst giving them peace of mind that their work is kept private. At Hypertec we are continuously expanding our range of products to suit the increasing number of mobile workers in the UK. These new screens will suit almost every mobile worker with a range of screen sizes available.”

Prices range from £28 to £88 depending on screen size.


For product enquires please contact:
Hypertec Ltd
0870 243 5603
info@hypertec.co.uk
www.hypertec.co.uk

Hawai‘i’s first full-service resort aiming for LEED certification to open in Fall 2011

Starwood Vacation Ownership (SVO), a division of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide (NYSE: HOT), announced plans to expand its portfolio of resorts in Hawai‘i with the development of its third vacation ownership resort on Maui. The new property, expected to open fall 2011, has been designed to achieve certification under the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system, the nationally accepted benchmark for green buildings.

“SVO is proud to be the first stand-alone, full-service resort in Hawai‘i to be developed with this coveted certification in mind,” said Matt Avril, president and managing director of operations, Starwood Vacation Ownership. “We have partnered with Arup, a global firm of designers, engineers, planners, and business consultants renowned for its expertise in green design, to ensure that the design and operation of the resort is environmentally responsible and contributes to Maui’s future sustainability.”

LEED certification recognizes buildings’ superior performance in areas including sustainability of site, water efficiency, energy savings, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, and innovation in design. The new, full-service resort will build and operate its own desalination and heat exchange system, which will produce drinkable water on site and utilize cool salt water for its air conditioning system. In addition, a state-of-the-art cogeneration system will provide most of the resort’s electricity and hot water needs.

The beachfront property will be located in Kā‘anapali North Beach, overlooking the Pacific Ocean with stunning views of the islands of Lāna‘i and Moloka‘i. Just minutes away from the shopping, dining and attractions of Lahaina, the resort will be surrounded by the natural beauty of West Maui’s beaches and mountains, which have made the area famous for whale watching, snorkeling, hiking, and horseback riding. The new property will feature 390 spacious, luxury villas including a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom units.

“Globally, the Westin-branded vacation ownership resorts in Kā‘anapali, Maui are two of SVO’s most popular resorts among vacation ownership buyers and visitors seeking hotel accommodations,” said Matt Avril. “With Maui being such an important market for SVO, we are pleased that we will be adding a third resort to our vacation ownership and rental offerings on the island.”

SVO’s new Kā‘anapali North Beach resort will bring the company’s total number of vacation ownership properties in Hawai‘i to four. The first resort, The Westin Ka‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas, opened in December of 2003. Four years later in December 2007, SVO opened its second Maui resort, The Westin Ka‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas North. Earlier this year in April, SVO made its Kaua‘i debut with the opening of The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas.

In 2005, The Westin Ka‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas received the ACE Project of Excellence, the highest accolade of the vacation ownership resort industry from the American Resort Development Association (ARDA). The property had among the highest Guest Satisfaction Index scores of any resort in the Starwood family and is the most requested resort for Starwood owners.

Starwood Vacation Ownership is a division of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, which has a long history in Hawai‘i and Maui beginning with the Moana Surfrider, the oldest hotel in Waikīkī, built in 1901. Starwood also manages the Sheraton Maui Resort, the first hotel built on Kā‘anapali Beach, Maui.

For more information on Starwood Vacation Ownership’s resorts in Hawai‘i, contact 800.601.8699 or visit www.starwoodvacationownership.com.

2008 Donation Reflects 40 Percent Increase Over 2007

Interval International and its member resorts continued their financial support of education in the Caribbean with a $25,000 donation to the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Foundation. The check was presented by David Callaghan, vice president of resort sales and service for Interval International, to Jacqueline Johnson, chairman, CTO Foundation, and Hon. Richard “Ricky” Skerritt, first vice chairman of CTO and minister of state in the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, and Culture, St. Kitts & Nevis.

 “We recognize the powerful impact that education has on the growth of the tourism industry in the Caribbean. Skilled tourism professionals provide better service and a higher quality vacation experience for visitors, which in turn, supports the long-term success of the region in today’s competitive global marketplace,” said Callaghan. “Through our collective contributions to the CTO Foundation, we support the development of qualified Caribbean-based personnel who will continue to provide the excellent service that sets the region apart from other warm weather destinations.”

The CTO Foundation awards scholarships and study grants to Caribbean nationals from CTO-member countries who wish to pursue studies in the areas of tourism, hospitality, and language training. Interval and its member resorts have collectively donated $160,000 to this organization over the last nine years. Since its beginning in 1997, the Foundation has awarded 43 scholarships and 84 study grants amounting to more than $647,000.

 “The CTO and its Caribbean nationals appreciate the continued support that Interval and its participating resorts provide to the education of our youth in the region,” said Allen Chastanet, CTO chairman. “Human resource development is one of our primary goals and the financial assistance that Interval offers to the CTO Foundation is crucial to the future of the region.”

The 25 vacation ownership properties contributing to the 2008 scholarship fund include: Aquarius Vacation Club at Boquerón Beach (Puerto Rico), Barceló Punta Cana (Dominican Republic), Bay Gardens Beach Resort (St. Lucia), Cayena Beach Club (Dominican Republic), Costa Caribe Resort (Dominican Republic), ESJ Towers (Puerto Rico), Grand Caymanian Resort (Cayman Islands), Island Seas Resort (Bahamas), Jolly Beach Vacations (Antigua), Jolly Harbour Beach Resort (Antigua), La Cabana Beach & Racquet Club (Aruba), Long Bay Beach Resort and Villas (Tortola), Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club (Aruba), Marriott’s Aruba Ocean Club (Aruba), Ocean Reef Resort (Bahamas), Oyster Bay Beach Resort (St. Maarten), Paradise Beach Villas (Aruba), Playa Linda Beach Resort (Aruba), Pelican Resort Club (St. Maarten), Renaissance Aruba Beach Resort & Hotel (Aruba), Sun Village Resort and Spa (Dominican Republic), The Reef Resort (Cayman Islands), The Aruban Resort and Casino at Eagle Beach (Aruba), The Franklyn D. Resort & Spa (Jamaica), and Woodbourne Resort (Bahamas).

“The CTO Foundation provides young people in the Caribbean with the necessary economic assistance to realize their dreams and secure higher level positions in the tourism industry,” said Jacqueline Johnson, chair of the CTO Foundation. “Interval and its member resorts are helping us educate the leaders of tomorrow. We can’t thank them enough for what they have done in the past and continue to do by making these tremendous donations.”

As a strategic partner of the Caribbean Hotel Association and a board member of the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s Foundation, Interval is committed to understanding the unique needs of the Caribbean region and providing products and programs tailored to this market. For its roster of Caribbean resort developer clients and new entrants into the vacation
ownership industry, Interval offers a range of services including program design, sales and marketing support, reservations, travel, and financial services.

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 2,400 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.

Bluegreen Corporation (BXG), headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, is a provider of Colorful Place to Live and Play® through two operating divisions: Bluegreen Resorts and Bluegreen Communities. Bluegreen Resorts markets a flexible, real-estate based vacation ownership plan that allows access to over 40 resorts and an exchange network of over 3,700 resorts, cruises and hotel stays. Bluegreen Communities has sold over 55,000 planned residential and golf community homesites in 32 states.

Recently, the company announced it has acquired vacation ownership intervals (weeks) at Club La Pension in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has also acquired commercial space to establish sales and marketing operations to manage and operate the resort. Bluegreen expects to renovate the commercial space in the resort for its new Bluegreen Vacation Club® Preview Center. Sales in New Orleans are expected to begin in the 3rd quarter 2008 pending satisfaction of all applicable legal, licensing and registration requirements.

Club La Pension is one of the oldest and most successful vacation ownership resorts in New Orleans. It consists of six historic buildings, one of which is Canal Street’s oldest existing building. The resort features studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom vacation ownership units, many of which have balconies overlooking the French Quarter. The rooftop features two sundecks with hot tubs and views of the French Quarter, river and city. Bluegreen will also be looking to develop marketing alliances with area vendors to provide additional incentives to its guests, including admission tickets to local attractions, and restaurant and merchandise certificates.

Already the global leader in the online advertising and marketing of timeshare resales and timeshare rentals, Sell My Timeshare NOW’s recent enhancements to its website appearance and usability are yielding significant results both in website traffic and offers to buy or rent timeshare.

Sell My Timeshare NOW, a timeshare advertising and marketing company, is seeing substantial results from the recently launched new look and new usability features of their website. Already the worldwide leader in advertising timeshare resales and timeshare rentals via the Internet, Sell My Timeshare NOW, unveiled a fresh appearance and new features for their website during this year’s American Resort Development Association (ARDA) convention in Las Vegas, NV.

“May was our first full month to evaluate the impact of the website improvements. Visitors to our website increased by 22 percent and offers increased by 135 percent over May 2007,” says Jason Tremblay, the company’s CEO. He explains, “The new look of Sell My Timeshare NOW’s website makes it easier than ever to find the right timeshare at the right price for your vacation needs.”

While other segments of the vacation industry were feeling the crunch of the tight economy and escalating gas prices, Sell My Timeshare NOW saw unique website visitors in May increase by 24 percent, year over year. Significantly, 10,466 offers to buy timeshare or rent timeshare were made, for a total of $37,979,158; an amount that reflects a 131 percent increase over the same month last year.

As an Internet based company, Sell My Timeshare NOW offers a website where timeshare owners advertise their timeshares for sale or rent, creating an inventory of vacation ownership property. Consumers who want to buy timeshare can conveniently shop online from any computer. Sell My Timeshare NOW’s website ranks near the top for Google searches for terms such as ‘timeshare’. The website is so highly visible that interested buyers and renters can easily buy or rent vacation ownership property from any location in the world. In 2007, over $274 million dollars in offers to buy or rent timeshare were made for timeshare advertised on the company’s website.


About Sell My Timeshare NOW, LLC:
Sell My Timeshare NOW provides advertising and marketing for timeshare owners who want to sell timeshare or rent timeshare. In less than five years, the company has become the recognized global leader in the advertising and marketing of timeshare resales and timeshare rentals via the Internet. In 2007, SellMyTimeshareNOW.com presented its customers over $274 million in offers to buy or rent timeshares. CEO Jason Tremblay is available for interviews at (603) 516-0649 or by emailing steveluba(at)sellmytimesharenow.com

Diamond Resorts International® (DRI), a global leader in the vacation ownership industry, has appointed Bill Tsao, as Vice President, Operations, Latin America, for DRI. Tsao will initially be responsible for developing, implementing and managing DRI’s growth and operations strategy in Latin America, including resort acquisition and development, sales and marketing and resort operations.

Diamond Resorts International® (DRI), a global leader in the vacation ownership industry, has appointed Bill Tsao, as Vice President, Operations, Latin America, for DRI. Tsao will initially be responsible for developing, implementing and managing DRI’s growth and operations strategy in Latin America, including resort acquisition and development, sales and marketing and resort operations. Tsao will report to President and Chief Operating Officer for DRI, Simon Crawford-Welch, PhD, RRP.

“Providing additional choices in resort destinations and penetrating new markets is key to DRI’s growth and success strategy,” says Crawford-Welch. “Bill’s extensive experience in the Latin American market will drive new sales opportunities and well-planned expansion into high-demand destinations. His expertise will be invaluable in fulfilling our worldwide commitment to greater choice and comfort for our owners, members and guests.”

Tsao has over 16 years of experience in the timeshare industry, including positions as Vice President of North and Latin American Business Development for International Cruise & Excursions (ICE) and Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Raintree Resorts, a multi-site, multi-national timeshare development and sales organization operating primarily in Mexico. During his tenure at Raintree, Tsao designed and implemented an innovative consumer affairs department strategy as well as having direct P&L responsibility for sales and marketing operations which included targeted products and programs for the Latin American consumer marketplace.

“As a global hospitality brand we’re looking beyond our traditional marketing demographics for additional growth opportunities,” says Stephen J. Cloobeck, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DRI. “Bill’s vision for our Latin American operations is ambitious, achievable and well aligned with our desire to deliver our brand tenets of simplicity, choice and comfort coupled with superior, customer-focused hospitality worldwide.”

Diamond Resorts International®, based in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest vacation ownership companies in the world with more than 110 branded and affiliated resorts and nearly 23,000 guest beds in 14 countries with destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to its more than 360,000 owners and members through the branded service of more than 5,500 team members worldwide, Diamond Resorts International® is dedicated to providing its guests with effortless and relaxing vacation experiences every time, for a lifetime.

Exclusive 250-Unit Upscale Vacation Ownership Resort in the Nation’s Capital

Wyndham Vacation Ownership announces that sales have commenced on its upscale 12-story, 250-unit Wyndham Vacation Resorts at National Harbor property. The resort is the exclusive vacation ownership property in the prestigious 300-acre National Harbor waterfront community in Prince George’s County, Md., on the perimeter of Washington, D.C.

Now available for purchase under the company’s FairShare Plus by Wyndham portfolio of products, Wyndham Vacation Resorts at National Harbor is anticipated to open in late 2009. With Wyndham’s FairShare Plus points-based exchange program, the company’s owners can not only enjoy this exciting new resort, but utilize their points at more than 65 resorts nationwide and receive unique travel benefits such as cruises, hotel stays and guided trips.

“National Harbor is certain to become the premier entertainment destination in the region with unmatched amenities and leisure activities,” said Franz Hanning, president and chief executive officer, Wyndham Vacation Ownership. “As the preeminent developer of urban timeshare, we are committed to expanding our presence in metropolitan markets offering our owners new and exciting vacation opportunities. National Harbor is destined to become a showcase location in our urban portfolio, and we are thrilled to begin sales on this world-class resort.”

This luxury vacation ownership resort will expand the company’s presence in the Washington D.C. market complementing its existing resort in Old Town Alexandria, which is located one mile from the Potomac River. Wyndham Vacation Resorts at National Harbor will feature street-level retail and 250 condominium-style, fully furnished suites including 42 opulent, two-, three-, and four-bedroom Presidential suites and offer multiple amenities for owners and their guests including indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools; an outdoor terrace; and a health and fitness club.

Located in the heart of National Harbor, visitors to the resort will be able to enjoy the many retail, dining and entertainment attractions being planned for the area such as McCormick & Schmick’s, Dolce Enoteca, Ketchup, Grace’s Mandarin and Rosa Mexicano, along with more than a mile of walking paths and waterfront activities.

Wyndham Vacation Resorts at National Harbor is located at 250 Mariner Passage, Prince George’s County, Md. Vacation ownership interests in Wyndham Vacation Resorts at National Harbor are currently being offered at the company’s sales offices in Fairfield Bay, Ark.; Hancock, Mass.; Branson, Mo.; New Bern, N.C.; Sapphire, N.C.; Newport, R.I.; Edisto Beach, S.C.; Myrtle Beach, S.C.; Santee, S.C.; Sevierville, Tenn.; Alexandria, Va.; Williamsburg, Va.; and Smithfield Township, Pa.

Additional information on the resort can be found at www.wyndhamvacationresorts.com.

The next time you find yourself in Ghirardelli Square, don’t just ogle the brickwork or scoff at the tourists.

Instead, treat the full-block complex facing Aquatic Park as a cultural history exhibit. The topic is San Francisco, a city where the more things change, the more they stay the same.

Once an aromatic factory, then a flower-bedecked dose of Urbanity Lite, the Ghirardelli Chocolate Co. has been repositioned yet again: this time as an upscale enclave. The upper floors of five historic structures have been converted from office and retail space into a “residence club” where, for prices starting at $275,000, purchasers will own the right to bed down 36 nights a year.

You’ll still find Ghirardelli ice cream and sundaes beneath the 1915 clock tower. But there’s also an organic cupcake boutique and a shop devoted to “pet couture.” Peekadoodle Kidsclub is billed as a “premium full-service indoor family club” – and while the kids play peek-a-boo, mom and dad can unwind at Cellar360′s 42-foot-long tasting bar.

Read the full story at: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/06/23/DDOO11CB0I.DTL

Aruba, Caribbean – Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, a Marriott Franchise property with timeshare membership, recently successfully installed the TimeShareWare Professional 2008 software system to manage its timeshare units. TimeShareWare Professional 2008 replaced a custom accounting software system at Renaissance Resort and also manages all owner activity.

Junior Croeze, IT Director of the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, loves the customizability and flexibility of the TimeShareWare Professional 2008 software. “The reliability and dependability of the system has been great. This is exactly why we chose TimeShareWare as our software provider.”

Jerry Sandorf, COO of TimeShareWare, commented, “TimeShareWare provides the flexibility that allows resorts to tailor the software setup to their own unique needs. We’ve been pleased that Renaissance Aruba has been able to capitalize on this flexibility to essentially customize TimeShareWare for very specific business processes and work flows in its timeshare business operations.”

Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino features 556 rooms and suites, with 150 of those units being timeshare units. The resort is split into two different areas: The Renaissance Marina Hotel which is an adult-exclusive destination within the resort for travelers over 18 years old, while the Renaissance Ocean Suites is suitable for families with children.

For more information about Renaissance Resort, please visit their website at www.renaissancearuba.com


About TimeShareWare & CondotelWare:
TimeShareWare is the industry standard software platform for shared-ownership, mixed use resorts. Since 1993, TimeShareWare serves all sizes and types of vacation ownership associations, fractional ownership properties, and timeshare resorts including multi-site, single-site, and points-based clubs. The TimeShareWare software platform includes solutions for lead management, contract processing, sales and marketing, owner accounting, loan servicing, property management, reservations, and web-based owner servicing.

CondotelWare is the first full-service software solution designed specifically for condominium hotels. The software helps owners and operators master all aspects of condo-hotel management and administration, including owner accounting, billing, rental rotation, inventory management, reservations, owner relations, reporting, and more.

Timeshare Projects Further Leffler & Heaney’s Expansion into Hospitality Industry

Orlando-based general contractor, Leffler & Heaney, Inc., announced it was awarded a third contract with Starwood Hotels & Resorts to provide construction management of the interior renovations for the Fountains II phase of Sheraton Vistana Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

Leffler & Heaney will oversee the interior renovations of 604 of the resort’s 1,500 vacation ownership units as part of the three contracts. Once complete, the resort rooms will feature new cabinets, flooring, fixtures, furnishings and paint.

Interior renovations of the first phase, the Lakes, began in September 2007 and were completed this past January. Leffler & Heaney is currently working on Fountains I interiors, which began in February and is scheduled to be completed in August. The third phase, Fountains II, will be completed this December.

“We are pleased to have been selected by Starwood Hotels & Resorts, a pillar in the vacation ownership industry, to manage the interior renovation,” said Leffler & Heaney’s Co-Owner Tim Leffler. “We look forward to servicing the hospitality industry and showing our commitment to quality construction and customer service.”

Known for specializing in multifamily renovations nationwide, Leffler & Heaney’s preparations to expand into the hospitality industry began nearly two years ago with the renovation of the Hilton Garden Inn at SeaWorld International Center and continue to grow the company’s portfolio and client roster.


About Leffler & Heaney, Inc.
Headquartered in Orlando, Fla., Leffler & Heaney is a leading privately owned general contracting firm specializing in renovating, reconstructing and repositioning multifamily and timeshare communities throughout the United States. Since 1986, the company has successfully completed more than 500 projects. For more information, visit www.LHIrenovation.com.

San Diego’s “The Purring Parrot” Caters to Different Kind of Guest

Architectural Concepts, Inc. (ACI) a San Diego firm regarded as one of the nation’s top hospitality-oriented architectural and interior design firms, has completed design work for “The Purring Parrot”, a retail cat and bird “resort” to be located in the Point Loma neighborhood of San Diego. This new facility will provide a full line of cat and bird supplies, toys, and furnishings in-store and on-line. The unusual facility will also feature work from local artists that will be available for purchase, with 10% of the sale going towards local animal charities.

Maria Brinson, owner of The Purring Parrot, said: “We have created something unique by combining cat and bird lodging into our retail showrooms. Each cat family stays in their own guest suite and enjoys the amenities that we have available. Each walk-in room is a minimum of 4.5ft x 6 ft x 8 ft high with a window door looking out on to the aviary, cage show room or to simply supervise the business. Each room is large enough for two cats. They are spacious enough for staff members to come in, sit down and have play time with ‘kitty.’”

Margit E. Whitlock, AIA, principal of Architectural Concepts, Inc. , said “ Our firm is known for creating unique environments to enhance the guest experience. The Purring Parrot provided us a unique opportunity to think outside the box with a smaller, different kind of “guest”. This project allowed us to have fun while doing what we are best at: producing a beautiful and functional environment that engages the guest – in this case, cats and birds!”

The new facility will include retail sales areas, 21 cat rooms, two cage and aviary rooms, along with support facilities. The space will feature “themed” rooms, with work by local artists, and include a variety of colors and patterns along with energy-efficient lighting and Solatube Daylighting Systems. It will be located at 3015 Saint Charles St., Suite D, San Diego, CA 92110. A grand opening is anticipated in early August 2008.

Project team members include: T-Squared Professional Engineers, Inc. for MEP engineering and Jayden Construction, General Contractor.

Textron Financial Corporation, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that Jon Fliss has been named executive vice president, human resources, effective June 16. Fliss succeeds Rob Powers, who recently joined Textron Systems as senior vice president, human resources. In this role, he will oversee human resources for Textron Financial and many of Textron Inc.’s corporate functions, focusing on organization design, compensation, recruitment, orientation, training, performance management, and diversity. He will report to Jay Carter, Textron Financial’s president and chief operating officer, and will be a member of the company’s Management and Executive Committees.

“Jon is a strong human resources leader with a keen focus on the needs of employees – our most important internal customers,” said Carter. “Through experience that spans both the public and government sectors, he has consistently led effective teams by setting human resources strategy and building upon solid foundations to better address the business as a whole.”

Fliss joined Textron Inc. in 2003, serving as director of executive compensation and executive benefits, where he was responsible for Textron’s Executive Compensation Program including both corporate and divisional Annual Incentive Compensation Plans, as well as the Textron Long-Term Incentive Plan. He established the company’s Rewards Center of Excellence to provide Textron’s first-ever enterprise capability for broad-based compensation design and administration. He also formalized Textron’s compensation benchmarking practices to the benefit of employees at all compensation levels.

Prior to Textron, Fliss served in human resources and strategy roles at Sears, Roebuck & Company, and as a Captain in the U.S. Army. He received a BS from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and an MBA from Northwestern University. Fliss has also completed Textron’s Executive Leadership Program at the Thunderbird School for Global Management.


About Textron Financial
Textron Financial is a diversified commercial finance company with more than $11 billion in managed receivables. It has core businesses in Aviation Finance, Asset-Based Lending, Distribution Finance, Golf Finance, Resort Finance, and Structured Capital. Textron Financial also provides financing programs for products manufactured by its parent company, Textron Inc. Additional information about the company is available at www.textronfinancial.com.

About Textron
Textron Inc. is a $13.2 billion multi-industry company operating in 34 countries with approximately 44,000 employees. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, defense and intelligence, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, Fluid & Power, Textron Systems and Textron Financial Corporation. More information is available at www.textron.com.

Fairmont Raffles Hotels International (FRHI), leading group with 88 hotels worldwide under the Raffles, Fairmont and Swissotel brands, on Monday announced the sale of Legacy Hotels Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) for SR5 billion ($1.33 billion).

Kingdom Holding Company (KHC), which holds a 58.1 per cent controlling interest in FRHI, netted SR740 million ($197 million) from the sales proceeds. The KHC is chaired by Prince Alwaleed bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Alsaud.

The FRHI also owns Fairmont and Raffles branded Residences, Estates and luxury private residence club properties.

Legacy REIT is the largest Canadian lodging real estate investment trust with focus on the ownership of luxury and first-class hotels.

PJ Shoucair, executive director for International Investments at KHC said the sale was in line with Fairmont Raffles Hotels International’s strategy of disposing of non-core assets.

‘Last year, Kingdom Holding sold Swissotel Sydney in Australia for SR281 million besides re-financing of the Four Seasons George V hotel in Paris with net cash proceeds valued at SR285 million going to KHC, the re-financing of the Hotel des Bergues, Geneva in the amount of SR375 million and announced the sale of the Four Seasons Hotel, London for SR550 million,’ he added.
 
This year KHC announced the completion of the sale of the Monte Carlo Grand Hotel in Monaco with proceeds valued at SR150 million going to KHC, Raffles Grand D’ Angkor & Le Royal, Cambodia for a sale value of SR131 million and the Swissotel Merchant Court, Singapore for a sale value of SR573 million.

In 2006 Kingdom and Colony completed a $5.5 billion acquisition of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts which was combined with the Raffles Hotels Group.


Source: Trade Arabia News

Across the country resort developers are putting new projects on hold and trying to figure out how to salvage sales of projects already under construction. But a timeshare developer from Florida, David Siegel, CEO of Westgate Resorts, is setting record sales in what others would consider a down market.

“If I did not read the paper I would think our economy is booming,” said Siegel. “Our occupancy is up and sales continue to surpass the records we set in 2007 when we exceeded $1.1 billion in revenue.”

The past 30 year history of the timeshare industry is ripe with examples of how resilient this business is during periods of economic or domestic uncertainly, and Westgate has consistently led the industry in growth each year. In fact, after the September 11th attacks virtually crashed the tourism market in destinations like Orlando and Las Vegas, the timeshare industry showed solid improvements in both occupancy rates and sales. Many industry experts credit timeshare for buoying the local tourism-related businesses in a period when hotel occupancy rates dipped below 20% at these destinations.

“Gas prices are at an inflation-adjusted high and food prices have skyrocketed. But people still want to vacation; they’re just looking for someone to make it affordable,” explains Siegel. “The fact that we can offer them five-star luxury at a price they can afford is the thing that sets us apart.”

As the visionary founder and CEO of Westgate Resorts, David Siegel has spent the last 25 years developing high-end family resorts in vacation destinations across the nation, growing his company from one resort in Kissimmee, Florida to 28 resorts across the United States. “The best memories I had growing up were vacationing with my family; it has always been my mission to replicate the great memories I had for the over 400,000 families that visit our resorts each year.”

Next month Siegel will celebrate the topping off of his $1.2 billion Las Vegas property-PH Towers by Westgate. Much of the celebration, however, will be had by the local businesses and individuals who have benefited from Siegel’s success. A project of this magnitude has a tremendous impact on the local economy. When Westgate develops a project, it translates into hundreds of jobs for the local community and millions of dollars in additional revenue for area businesses. “In places like Orlando and Las Vegas, we buy a significant amount of attraction tickets, hotel rooms, and other local goods,” explains Siegel. “More importantly, we create thousands of permanent annual
visitors who will return each year and spend their vacation dollars. We value our local partners and the communities in which we live and work.”


About Westgate Resorts:
With 28 resorts and over 400,000 owners worldwide, Westgate Resorts is the largest privately owned timeshare company in the world and one of the largest resort developers in the United States. The company, founded in 1970 by David A. Siegel, provides affordable luxury vacation accommodations and exchange opportunities through exclusive affiliation with Interval International, which offers worldwide travel solutions at over 2,000 resorts in over 65 countries. More information is available at www.westgateresorts.com


You can also read an exclusive interview with David Siegel in the June Edition of Perspective Magazine, the timeshare and shared ownership industry’s leading independent publication globally.

Diamond Resorts International® (DRI), a global leader in the vacation ownership industry, has appointed Joel Lazar, RRP, as Vice President, Marketing, Eastern Region, for DRI. Lazar’s more than 20 years of vacation ownership and fractional ownership marketing experience will be leveraged to generate a significant number of tours for DRI’s Eastern operations, including resort destinations in Tennessee, Missouri, Virginia, St. Maarten and Florida. Lazar will report to James R. Danz, RRP (“Jim”), DRI’s Chief Marketing Officer.

“Joel has proven abilities in attracting qualified prospects through innovation in communication and product design across many facets of the real estate industry,” says Jim Danz, “His addition to the industry-leading DRI marketing team will enable us to deliver consistent tour flow to current and planned sales centers in DRI’s Eastern Region.”

Prior to his engagement with DRI, Lazar held senior management positions with The Owners Club, Intrawest Resort Ownership Corp., Cimarron Golf Resort and Hilton Grand Vacations Club. As the Corporate Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Transeastern Homes, Lazar helped the company gain recognition as the fastest growing homebuilder in the country. During his tenure, Transeastern sold nearly $2 Billion in new homes and successfully launched 20 communities. Lazar earned the Florida Home Builders Association’s Marketing Executive of the Year award in 2004.

“Building a world-class organization requires team members with experience, passion and a desire to deliver excellence in everything we do,” said Simon Crawford-Welch, DRI’s President & Chief Operating Officer. “Joel’s engagement is another step toward a dominant global hospitality brand that will set higher industry standards in sales, marketing, resort operations and customer service worldwide.”

Lazar has served on the American Resort Development Association’s (ARDA) Board of Directors and as chairperson of the ARDA Membership Committee. Lazar has been frequently interviewed by and quoted in major industry and consumer publications, and is a much sought after speaker at industry events.

Diamond Resorts International®, based in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest vacation ownership companies in the world with more than 110 branded and affiliated resorts in 14 countries with destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to its more than 360,000 owners and members through the branded service of more than 5,500 team members worldwide, Diamond Resorts International® is dedicated to providing its guests with effortless and relaxing vacation experiences every time, for a lifetime.

For more information, please visit DiamondResorts.com

After a nationwide search for the premier outdoor recreational development, producers for the DIY (Do It Yourself) Network have chosen Montana’s Meriwether Ranch as the site of a new series called the “Ultimate Sportsman’s Lodge.” DIY is visible to over 50 Million viewers nationwide in the USA and around the world.

The pristine Meriwether Ranch, located on the legendary Big Hole River outside of Melrose, Montana, halfway between Butte and Dillon is home to deer, fox, moose, elk, otters, beaver, osprey, bald eagles, ducks, grouse, geese, Sandhill cranes and pronghorn antelope. The Big Hole River is known for its Blue Ribbon rainbow trout, as well as an abundance of brook, cutthroat, and brown trout. It also has the only native run of arctic grayling in the lower 48.

“We combed the country looking for the right blend of stunning venue and unmatched outdoor opportunities,” says Chris Dorsey, president of Denver-based Orion Multimedia, the production company that will bring the series to life, “and when we took one look at Meriwether we knew we had found the perfect place. The property offers the best of Montana and having it straddle the world famous trout waters of the Big Hole River just made it irresistible.”
The Ultimate Sportsman’s Lodge is being designed by Bozeman’s Locati Architects; one of the West’s premier architectural firms Locati has created numerous showpiece homes and lodges featured in national and regional architectural periodicals. Adding color to the series will be well-known comedian Jeff Foxworthy who will host regular segments within each episode.

Meriwether Ranch is the dream project of outdoor enthusiasts and conservationists Dave and Emilie Ellingson (Lincoln NE). Nestled between the 3.23 million acres of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest and the Big Hole Valley, Meriwether Ranch offers 724 deeded acres and approximately 180,000 acres of permitted land. Fewer than ten percent of the deeded acres will be impacted by the development of new home sites and other buildings. The remaining acres will be protected from further development by the establishment of a conservation easement.

“Since Emilie and I are committed to this land, and regard it as our Ultimate Dream, we can’t help but be excited to share it with others’ who share our enthusiasm,” said Dave Ellingson. “When we created the Ranch, our goal was allow other outdoor enthusiasts to own the experience by purchasing homes or land to build their custom dream homes, right on the river. DIY is going to give so many viewers—both here and around the world–the opportunity to see for themselves, what we have known all along. It’s a little bit of heaven, right here on Earth. ”

DIY’s ‘Ultimate Sportsman’s Lodge’ will begin airing in July of 2009 and is slated to continue airing throughout 2010. DIY Network is part of the Scripps family of networks that includes HGTV, Food, Fine Living, and Great American Country, and is one of America’s fastest growing networks.

For more information visit www.meriwetherranch.com.

NetJets, the worldwide leader in private aviation, announced today that it will significantly expand its fleet of large-cabin Gulfstream G450s and Gulfstream G550s. In a new agreement signed with Gulfstream valued at $1.9 billion, NetJets will acquire a total of 40 new Gulfstream aircraft – four Gulfstream G450s and four Gulfstream G550s to be delivered each year from 2012 through 2016. This deal also includes a long-term maintenance support agreement.

“NetJets and Gulfstream have been strong and successful partners for more than a decade and this agreement represents a strategic investment in our future,” said Richard T. Santulli, chairman and CEO, NetJets Inc. “We took our first large cabin Gulfstream IV-SP in 1995 and our first Gulfstream V in 2000. These aircraft offer NetJets Owners premiere large-cabin amenities and the flexibility of intercontinental range. Gulfstream products provide our pilots and flight attendants with the best in next-generation technology and their service teams ensure we meet the high standards of performance and reliability NetJets Owners expect.”

The new contract reinforces an already robust relationship between NetJets and Gulfstream, demonstrating NetJets’ continued support of Gulfstream’s cutting-edge aviation products and renowned service programs. Part of the new deal includes more than $250 million in maintenance support. Under its current agreement with Gulfstream, signed in 2006, NetJets receives four Gulfstream 450s and four Gulfstream 550s each year through 2011.

“This contract recognizes the continued success of Gulfstream aircraft in the NetJets fractional ownership program and the strong partnership between the two companies,” said Joe Lombardo, president, Gulfstream Aerospace. “This deal was made possible in large part due to the long-standing relationship and comfort level Gulfstream Aerospace has developed by working so closely with the talented group of experienced professionals at NetJets International, which operates the large cabin fleet. That relationship has contributed an historical business platform in support of Gulfstream’s continually increasing worldwide product-support capabilities.”

Larry Flynn, senior vice president, Marketing and Sales, Gulfstream Aerospace, added: “Jim Jacobs, vice-chairman of NetJets Inc., with whom I have worked very closely with now for many years, as well as Richard Santulli’s support of the overall NetJets/Gulfstream relationship, is highly valued at Gulfstream. This relationship was also a critical part of our decision to enter into this agreement with NetJets International.”

NetJets has over 90% of the long-range cabin fractional market and is the largest operator of Gulfstream aircraft in the world. As of June 2008, NetJets’ worldwide Gulfstream fleet totals 110 and is comprised of 21 Gulfstream G550/V, 55 Gulfstream G450/400/IV-SP and 34 Gulfstream G200s.


NetJets Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway company, is the worldwide leader in private aviation and provides the safest and most secure private aviation solutions. NetJets fractional aircraft ownership allows individuals and companies to buy a share of a private business jet at a fraction of the cost of whole aircraft ownership, and guarantees availability 365 days a year with just a few hours’ notice. The NetJets programs worldwide offer the largest and most diversified fleet in private aviation, which includes 15 of the most popular business jets in the world. Access to the NetJets fleet is also available in the form of a short-term lease, sold on an all-inclusive, pre-paid basis in 25-hour increments, through an exclusive alliance with Marquis Jet Partners. NetJets Inc. also offers aircraft management, charter management, and on-demand charter services through its subsidiary, Executive Jet Management. More information on NetJets, the Marquis Jet Program, and Executive Jet Management is available at www.netjets.com.   

The Gulfstream Large Cabin Fleet is operated by NetJets International / NJI. The BBJ is operated by NetJets Large Aircraft Company. All other aircraft offered by NetJets in the United States are operated by NetJets Aviation. Each of these operating companies is a wholly owned subsidiary of NetJets Inc. All aircraft offered by NetJets in Europe are operated by NetJets Transportes Aéreos, SA a Portuguese/EU Air Carrier. The Marquis Jet Card Program is operated by NetJets under its FAR Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate. NetJets has an affiliation with the provider of the NetJets Middle East Program.

DCP International (DCP), private residence club industry leader headquartered in Chicago, announces the addition of three diverse developments to its expanding roster of clients. Pioneer of the Equity Residence Club concept and in its 17th year of operation, DCP recently launched three new clubs in Nantucket, MA; Huatulco, Mexico; and Seacrest Beach, FL.

“While the whole-ownership market continues to struggle, developers and buyers are seeking alternatives that make sense in any market,” explains DCP Partner Steve Dering. “As a result, we’re seeing increased interest in the residence club concept because it continues to grow in popularity and has the ability to withstand an economic downturn.”

Highly respected resort market research firm Ragatz Associates reported continued growth in the residence club industry in 2007 with an estimated sales volume of $1.2 billion, a 12 percent increase over 2006.

“We attribute that growth to greater consumer awareness and acceptance, especially in relation to its advantages over whole-ownership and timeshare models,” explains Dr. Richard Ragatz, founder of Ragatz Associates.

Located in Huatulco, Encanto Villas & Residence Club is DCP’s second project in Mexico. It is the first Mexican development for Cincinnati, OH-based developer J.R. Anderson Real Estate, Inc. Little known to Americans but a popular destination for Mexico’s elite, Huatulco is emerging as a top notch, eco-friendly destination with 42,000 acres of preserved forest. Encanto Villas & Residence Club, a unique waterfront development, incorporates a design inspired by its natural surroundings. Huatulco features nine bays along the Pacific Coast, allowing owners to enjoy pristine beaches, unspoiled views, jungles and rivers for years to come. Plans call for a total of 84 fully furnished residences with introductory pricing starting at $148,000 for a two-bedroom and $190,000 for a three-bedroom. Club amenities will include a beach club, boat docks, multiple pools, and a spa and fitness center. Phase one completion is scheduled for winter 2009.

Magnolia Private Residence Club, situated on Florida’s Emerald Coast, is desirably located along Highway 30-A, a scenic coastal road that stretches between Destin and Panama City. Less developed than its neighboring cities, the area is renowned for its sea-oat covered dunes, freshwater lakes, and protected open space. Miles of sugar-white sand beaches and southern hospitality lure families to 30-A. Magnolia offers furnished, three-bedroom residences starting at $159,000. Owners will enjoy a protected boardwalk access to the beach, state-of-the-art fitness center with sauna and steam room, kids activity room, and use of Club bicycles. The rooftop, with its sweeping views of the Gulf, features a pool, jetted spa, two grilling areas, and an owner’s lounge. Magnolia’s opening is planned for fall 2008. The developer is Axiom Capital Group, LLC of Destin, FL.

Offering seclusion combined with proximity to Nantucket’s historic Main Street, Harborview Place consists of ten charming cottages located on a quiet, sandy beach. Owners enjoy use of Club boats, other water toys and private beach services. Whole ownership of a Harborview Place residence is available in addition to one-eighth deeded interests. Three residence types, all with water views, are offered to accommodate varying owner needs. Handsome hardwood floors, top-quality cabinetry, appliances and fixtures, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, energy-efficient fireplaces, sumptuous furnishings, luxurious linens, and exquisite accessories are harmoniously blended into each home. Additional services include on-site concierge, on-island transportation, business center, laundry, housekeeping and private storage. Residence club ownership starts at $495,000 and the first residences will be available for owner use in Summer 2008. DCP is a partner in Harborview Nantucket, L.P., the Club’s development company.

DCP International pioneered the Equity Residence Club concept in 1992 with the Deer Valley Club at Deer Valley Resort in Utah and is the most experienced consulting firm in the industry. Residence clubs offer owners unlimited use and an affordable, hassle-free way to own luxurious vacation real estate. DCP has more than $2 billion either sold, under contract or in development. The company has provided expertise in design, marketing and sales to private developers on more than 30 projects in the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe.

For more information visit www.dcp-international.com

Resort to Become Company’s Newest Smoky Mountains Retreat

Wyndham Vacation Ownership has commenced construction of its latest mountain resort, Wyndham Vacation Resorts Great Smokies Lodge. Located just outside of Smoky Mountains National Park next to the Little Pigeon River in Sevierville, Tenn., the 189-unit vacation ownership resort is anticipated to open in 2009. When complete, the resort will anchor a new residential and entertainment complex with an expansive indoor and outdoor water park project currently under development by Wilderness Resort, LLC, developers of America’s largest water park resort.

“In partnering with Wilderness Resort, the premier water park developer, we will bring a truly unique resort to the Smoky Mountains – a longtime favorite destination for our owners,” said Alan Litwack, executive vice president, Acquisitions & Pre-Development Services for Wyndham Vacation Ownership. “At Wyndham, our goal is not only to develop outstanding resorts in popular destinations, but to create resorts that are destinations in and of themselves. With a similar destination resort in Wisconsin Dells and a resort under development in the National Harbor (Md.) entertainment complex, we are continuing to deliver new and exciting vacation experiences for our owners.”

Featuring modern mountain architecture, the resort will include a mix of well-appointed one-, two- and three-bedroom units as well as two-, three-and four-bedroom upscale Presidential units, several of which will overlook the beautiful Eagles Landing Golf Course. Each unit in the Wyndham property will feature such amenities as a full kitchen, dining room, in-unit washer and dryer, and entertainment center. Presidential units will include a ledgestone fireplace in each great room.

Scheduled to operate within the company’s FairShare Plus by Wyndham exchange portfolio, Wyndham Vacation Resorts Great Smokies Lodge will be Wyndham Vacation Ownership’s fourth property in Tennessee, joining the Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Glade in Fairfield Glade, Wyndham Smoky Mountains in Sevierville and Wyndham Nashville in Nashville.

Beyond the outstanding accommodations, owners will be able to enjoy a number of amenities throughout the complex including Wilderness Resort’s sizable indoor and outdoor water parks. Visitors can spend the day zooming down the parks’ tube and body slides, taking a dip in the indoor wave pool and having fun in a water playground. For a more relaxing pace, guests can float in the adventure river or sit poolside, soaking up the sun. In fact, Wilderness Resort’s large indoor wave pool will be enclosed in a Foil Tech roof that let’s visitors enjoy sun tanning year-round.

After a day of fun at the water parks or exploring the area’s shops, restaurants and the natural beauty of the nearby mountains, owners can relax by the cozy lobby fireplaces or on the resort’s patio overlooking the golf course. In addition, the resort will feature an exercise room and computer library for connecting with family and friends. A number of restaurants, snack bars, retail shops, arcades and bars will provide plenty of food and entertainment options within walking distance for everyone.


About Wyndham Vacation Ownership
Wyndham Vacation Ownership, a member of Wyndham Worldwide’s (NYSE: WYN) family of companies, is the world’s largest vacation ownership business, as measured by the number of vacation ownership resorts, individual vacation ownership units and owners of vacation ownership interests. Wyndham Vacation Ownership develops, markets and sells vacation ownership interests and provides consumer financing to owners through its three primary consumer brands, Wyndham Vacation Resorts, WorldMark by Wyndham and Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific. As of December 31, 2007, Wyndham Vacation Ownership had developed or acquired approximately 145 vacation ownership resorts throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and the South Pacific that represent more than 17,500 individual vacation ownership units and more than 800,000 owners of vacation ownership interests. Wyndham Vacation Ownership is headquartered in Orlando, Florida, and is supported by more than 17,700 employees globally.

Travel Advantage Network (TAN), a nationwide leader in wholesale vacation accommodations, announced today the appointment of Lisa Taylor to Human Resources Director. Taylor will be responsible for overseeing employee relations and retention, management coaching and training, benefit and payroll management, human resources policies and procedures and recruitment.

“We are so pleased to have Lisa come on board with TAN,” said TAN President and CEO Brad Callahan. “She brings years of valuable experience and expertise, and we are confident that she will be an integral addition to the TAN team.”

Prior to joining TAN, Lisa was the HR Generalist and Talent Manager for Ripken Baseball, where she created and grew the HR department. Before her role with Ripken, she was the HR Manager for Glen Meadows Retirement Community in Glen Arm, MD, with the responsibility of overseeing all HR functions.

Lisa Taylor has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management with a Specialization in Human Resources from the University of Baltimore, and is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).


ABOUT TRAVEL ADVANTAGE NETWORK (TAN) Since 1992, TAN, a wholesale priced vacation accommodations program, has helped families and individuals create lifelong vacation memories. TAN is the proud recipient of the Better Business Bureau of Maryland’s prestigious Torch Award for exemplifying high business standards and professional integrity and the Maryland Chamber of Commerce’s Philanthropy in Business Award for outstanding and innovative commitment to local and national charities. TAN is a recipient of Baltimore CEO Magazine’s 2008 Future 50 Award, recognizing the fastest growing companies in the greater Baltimore area. TAN was the only travel company to make this year’s Future 50 list. To learn more visit www.planwithtan.com.

£24bn Total amount spent by Brits buying property abroad in 2007, according to the Association of International Property Professionals £99,200 Average price of a foreign property purchased by a British buyer last year

25.4% Proportion of British-bought foreign properties last year that were in the most popular country, Spain

21% Increase in completed overseas purchases by British buyers from 2006 to 2007 (all statistics: AIPP)

Read the full story at http://www.guardian.co.uk/money/2008/jun/19/buyingpropertyabroad.property

Luxury Travel Destination Club Provides Members Access to 30 Multi-Million Dollar Residences Throughout the World

The LUSSO Collection, an exclusive boutique travel destination club providing members unlimited access to a collection of multi-million dollar residences in the world’s most sought-after vacation destinations, has acquired new properties in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Anguilla in the Caribbean; and Naples, Fla.

“We are excited about the addition of properties in Cabo San Lucas and Naples, as well as our new residence in Anguilla, because all of these locations are extremely popular with our members and each offers amazing opportunities to experience a truly luxurious getaway,” said Steve Greer, founder and CEO of The LUSSO Collection. “From the breathtaking views to the amazing floor plans in each residence, every setting is one-of-a-kind.”

Anguilla
Anguilla, often referred to as “tranquility wrapped in blue,” is part of the British West Indies in the East Caribbean. The LUSSO Collection has acquired two oceanfront villas that overlook stunning views of turquoise waters that face the mountains of St. Martin.

Indigo Cove sits on the water’s edge of Anguilla’s South Shore. It is a 4,800 square-foot residence featuring six bedrooms and six bathrooms, and an open floor plan for gathering with a spacious great room and kitchen that blend the outdoors to the dining room, terrace and pool. Outdoor living space is outfitted with a tropical pavilion and lounging areas that surround a private pool.

Sandpiper is nestled in the rolling landscape of Anguilla’s South Shore in Little Harbour to form a private enclave in an oceanfront setting. The 3,700 square-foot villa features four bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, and an open floor plan that seamlessly blends the indoors with the outdoors.

The homes feature classic Caribbean architecture and elegant indoor spaces that feature a rich mix of wood and stone.

Cabo San Lucas
The LUSSO Collection also has added a third property in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Casa Bellena is located in the oceanfront community of Punta Ballena, just three miles east of Cabo San Lucas where Mexico’s Baja peninsula reaches its endpoint.

The 5,000 square-foot residence features four bedroom suites, domed ceilings, marble floors and captivating ocean views. The main living areas can be opened to expand to the outdoor living area where a large terrace, outdoor kitchen and infinity-edge pool with Jacuzzi and a swim-up bar complete the tropical paradise.

Naples
The LUSSO Collection has added a third residence in Naples, Fla. Villa del Lago overlooks a lake and is surrounded by lush tropical greenery. The 4,750 square-foot home features main living areas of a dining room, parlour, great room and kitchen that flow together for an expansive yet welcoming setting to entertain family and friends. Its four bedroom suites, media room, study and workout room also provide private retreats. The property is located just steps from the Fifth Avenue South shopping area and a short stroll from the warm tropical waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

The LUSSO Collection recently added its 30th home in one of 16 destination locations and now has more than 145 members. The company has an aggressive growth plan that includes having a portfolio of 39 homes in 21 destinations, including Europe, by year-end.


About The LUSSO Collection
The LUSSO Collection is an exclusive boutique travel destination club that provides members unlimited access to a collection of multi-million dollar residences in the world’s most sought-after vacation destinations. Founded by Steve Greer in 2006, the LUSSO Collection offers its growing membership access to residences that average $4 million in value and an on-site concierge offers hassle-free planning for a truly luxurious vacation. For additional information, please call 1-866-GO-LUSSO or visit http://www.lussocollection.com.

Next week (30th June 2008), the UK round of the global tournament spanning five continents at 22 sites will commence in Tewkesbury, England where teams of golfers from different European timeshare companies will play a round for charity in aid of the children of Christel House.

Perspective Magazine, now the most read independent B2B publication for the timeshare industry are Gold Sponsors of the event, continuing their long standing support of Christel House, and will also be covering the event for the publication.

The tournament raises money and awareness for the charity which is helping children around the world to break the cycle of poverty and become self-sufficient, contributing members of society. Christel House have learning centers located in India, Mexico, South Africa, the United States and Venezuela – you can read the Perspective Magazine article in the January 2008 edition of their experience when visiting the South Africa school last November 2007.

For more information on Christel House visit www.christelhouse.org

Hard Rock Park, the world’s first rock n’ roll theme park is home to three SCS Interactive installations. Hard Rock Park which held its Grand Opening on June 2, 2008 is the largest tourist attraction in the Myrtle Beach market. SCS Interactive is excited about having a strong presence in this one of a kind theme park.

“SCS Interactive truly enjoyed working with Hard Rock on this unique project. It was a great opportunity for us to use our theme park background in the creation of our three attractions, Reggae River Falls, Slippery When Wet and Garage Jam. All three of these distinctive installations integrate perfectly with the Hard Rock theme park and offer a variety of unforgettable play for the entire family,” said Steve Wagner, vice president of sales and marketing at SCS Interactive.

Reggae River Falls, an SCS Discovery Treehouse™, offers a great cooling area for children of all ages. There are over 15 decks to explore throughout the structure and it is topped by a 6 foot tipping bucket that holds up to 750 gallons of water. It also offers more than 40 different interactives for the whole family to soak one another with, all while rocking out to the steel drum music that is playing in the area.

Garage Jam is SCS Interactive’s patented ballplay installation and is a Rock and Roll Garage themed FoamFactory™. This FoamFactory™ has 2 levels and over 50 different interactives along with 4 bridges. This structure offers an ideal place for everyone in the whole family to play together and discover fun for all ages.

Slippery When Wet is a wet interactive rollercoaster which was a collaboration between SCS Interactive and Premier Rides. The water effects which SCS integrated into the ride allow for spectators to blast riders with water as they pass by while riders have the ability to retaliate via a button in their car which will set off a water interactive on the ground below. The interactives include Blasters, Geysers, Mist Tunnels, Water Curtains and much more. This is SCS Interactive’s third SplashTrack™ installation within the US and this ride brings interactivity to a new level.

All attractions were custom themed to match the design intent of the park. In doing so, SCS was able to leverage its experience and dedication to the theme park industry. SCS’s commitment and attention to detail paid off, the attractions integrate seamlessly with the rest of the park.

The Neuman Group designed the pools in and around the SCS water structures and interactives and they collaborated with SCS Interactive on the installation of all three attractions.


About SCS Interactive
SCS Interactive has been the source of great waterparks since 1986. SCS has revolutionized the waterplay industry as the originator of the multi-level interactive tree house concept, the creator of the giant tipping bucket seen at amusement parks around the world, & the developer of the world’s first wet & dry water coaster known as SplashTrack™. Some of the biggest resorts, amusement & waterparks all over the globe showcase SCS Interactive structures as signature attractions. More information about SCS Interactive can be found at www.scsinteractive.com.

About Hard Rock Park
HRP Myrtle Beach Operations, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hard Rock Park (HRP), designed, developed, constructed, & owns & operates Hard Rock Park (the “Park”), an approximately 140-acre rock-n-roll theme park in Myrtle Beach, SC, under a long term license agreement with Hard Rock Café International (USA), Inc. The members of HRP Myrtle Beach Partners, LLC, the parent of HRP, are (i) HRP Executive Management Co., LLC, an entity owned by the Park’s executive management team consisting of Steven Goodwin, Felix Mussenden and Jon Binkowski, who designed & developed the Park’s concepts & are responsible for operating the Park; (ii) FHTP, LLC, a group of prominent Myrtle Beach investors & community leaders; & (iii) HRPV-I, LLC, a joint venture led by real estate developer Ziel Feldman, Amnon Bar-Tur, the Managing Member of SafeHarbor Holding, LLC, & Israeli investment funds Africa Israel Investment & Polar International Real Estate. For more information visit the Hard Rock Park’s website at www.hrpusa.com.

Perspective International Ltd., and timeshare resales advertising giant, Sell My Timeshare NOW, team up in building magazine subscriber base before the launch of the new timeshare magazine, Owners Perspective. Publication is offering free online subscriptions to timeshare owners and those interested in timesharing.

Perspective Magazine and timeshare advertising giant, Sell My Timeshare NOW, are gearing up for the launch of the new online magazine, Owners Perspective, set to debut next month. As the magazine’s first US-based marketing partner for building subscriptions, the partnership between Perspective and the online timeshare resales and timeshare rental leader, Sell My Timeshare NOW, has helped Owners Perspective already sign up 4,200 subscribers, with the first free online publication just a few weeks away.

The launch of the new magazine is expected to build upon the growing demand for timeshares, providing owners and prospective owners with up-to-the minute, equitable timeshare ownership information. Paul Mattimoe, president & CEO of Perspective International Ltd explains, “People crave information, and although there are other great industry publications available, most are restricted by association, exchange company or membership database. Ours is independent, can feature any resort and review all industry conventions. Add to this global content and we naturally are going to attract large numbers of subscribers.”

Perspective International Ltd, already publishes Perspective Magazine, a successful business-to-business magazine that targets the timeshare, fractional, and vacation ownership industries. Perspective Magazine has a circulation of just over 6,550 print subscribers; including readers from 79 countries / territories, and an average of 10-12,000 online readers per month. Mattimoe says, “Rather than trying to adapt Perspective Magazine to suit owners, we decided to launch a second publication specifically for them…providing both a much needed independent resource for existing and potential owners as well as a new and diverse advertising platform for businesses.”

Not only are interest and demand for new and resale timeshares at an all time high, with more than 7 million timeshare owners globally, but timeshare sales have defined themselves as a cornerstone of the hotel and hospitality industry. Sell My Timeshare NOW’s online timeshare resale and timeshare rental website averages over 2 million visitors each month, with more than 400,000 of them as first time visitors, making them a high visibility partner for Perspective International.

Sell My Timeshare NOW CEO, Jason Tremblay says, “Perspective International stands for high quality content and presentation. They are bringing these same standards to Owners Perspective, giving timeshare owners a better understanding of the great value and opportunities in timeshares, timeshare resales, and timeshare rentals.”

Owners Perspective will launch online in July 2008 on a free subscription basis. Beginning in January 2009, there will also be paid print subscriptions available in addition to the free web-based option. Anyone interested in a free online subscription to Owners Perspective can subscribe at: http://www.ownersperspective.com/free/


About Sell My Timeshare NOW, LLC:
Sell My Timeshare NOW provides advertising and marketing for timeshare owners who want to sell timeshare or rent timeshare. In less than five years, the company has become the recognized global leader in the advertising and marketing of timeshare resales and timeshare rentals via the Internet. In 2007, SellMyTimeshareNOW.com presented its customers over $274 million in offers to buy or rent timeshares. CEO Jason Tremblay is available for interviews at (603) 516-0649 or by emailing steveluba(at)sellmytimesharenow.com.

Travel Advantage Network places third in Southern Maryland for raising funds for the Arthritis Foundation

Travel Advantage Network (TAN), a community leader in the fight against arthritis, raised more than $2,000, placing third in Anne Arundel County’s Arthritis Walk 2008. TAN employees are active supporters of several local and national charities, focusing on a different cause each month.

TAN became involved in supporting the Southern Maryland Arthritis Foundation when CEO Brad Callahan found out that one of his employees, Chantal Boyer has fibromyalgia, a form of arthritis. Chantal was recognized as the “Highest Individual Fundraiser on a Team” for the walk.

“Our TAN employees are constantly finding ways to reach out to our community to provide support to good causes,” said Callahan. “The Arthritis Foundation was a perfect match for our team, especially as one of our own, suffers from a form of arthritis. When we can rally around admirable causes such as this, we find a way to do it.”

Chantal participated in this year’s walk with her dog and several other TAN employees. To raise money, TAN employees participated in raffles and flower, craft and bake sales, and reached out to friends in the community to bring awareness and raise funds for the fight against arthritis.

TAN employees consistently reach out to local charities on a regular basis. Since January, they have raised and donated thousands of dollars to worthwhile organizations like the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Custom Hearts-Mended Little Hearts, Celebrating Special Children and Juvenile Alopecia Areata.

For more information, contact Lorena Andon, TAN Marketing Manager, at (410) 729-1133 ext. 145 or landon@planwithtan.com. To learn more about TAN, visit www.planwithtan.com.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) today announced the introduction of its renowned St. Regis brand to Malaysia, with plans to debut a new property in 2014 in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur will feature 200 lavishly appointed guest rooms and 200 whole-ownership St. Regis branded Residences as well as world-class dining options and spacious meeting facilities. Owned by ONE IFC Sdn Bhd, The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur will offer an unrivaled dimension of luxury, sophistication and bespoke service as part of a premier mixed-used development called ONE IFC in the prestigious Kuala Lumpur Sentral Precinct (KL Sentral).

“We are thrilled with the landmark entry of the St. Regis brand into Malaysia. The sustained demand for luxury accommodations, the legendary bespoke service of the St. Regis brand, and the unrivaled location of this hotel in the KL Sentral area will make The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur an extremely attractive choice for travelers coming to this dynamic capital city,” said Mr. Miguel Ko, President for Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific. “The growth of international arrivals has remained strong as a result of efforts by the Tourism Authority of Malaysia to promote Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur as a destination for business, leisure and meetings.”

Ideally located at one of the city’s best addresses, The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur is within walking distance of the National Museum and Lake Gardens as well as the KL Sentral railway hub and major commercial areas including KLCC and Bukit Bingtang. Spanning 72 acres, KL Sentral is the largest commercial development in Kuala Lumpur today and is regarded by many as the city’s new Central Business District. The capital and largest city in Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is one of the best examples of an Asian city that has managed to preserve the best of its cultural heritage while emerging as one of Asia’s fastest growing centers for trade, commerce, finance, and information technology.

“We are excited to embark on this collaboration with Starwood in bringing a luxurious brand like St. Regis to Kuala Lumpur. We have engaged an exciting team of internationally reputed experts, whose modern outlook in today’s fast-changing environments and technologies share our commitment in turning this iconic project into a reality,” said Carmen Chua, Chief Executive Officer of ONE IFC Sdn Bhd. “Our commitment to this development represents our dedication, belief and confidence in the future of Kuala Lumpur. This signing ceremony marks another important chapter in the KL Sentral growth prospect and more importantly, a step forward in KL’s transformation into a global city, one that will shape and enhance as well as contribute to the overall growth and success of the country.”

Following in the tradition of the legendary St. Regis New York, The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur will feature the famed hallmarks of St. Regis hotels including luxury accommodations, bespoke guest and resident experiences and the iconic St. Regis Butler Service. Trained in the English tradition, the St. Regis 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.

The New York-based architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM) has been appointed as the main architect for the ONE IFC development. Founded in 1936, SOM is one of the world’s leading architecture, urban design, engineering, and interior architecture firms with a portfolio that features some of the most important architectural accomplishments of the 20th century.

One of the world’s most intriguing destinations, Kuala Lumpur is a bustling metropolis with everything from gleaming skyscrapers and world-class museums to curbside eateries and traditional night markets. This richly textured cosmopolitan setting is perfect for the latest addition to the St. Regis portfolio. From Kuala Lumpur to Cairo, Beijing to Buenos Aires, Singapore to Shanghai, St. Regis is committed to designing custom-tailored guest experiences in the best addresses around the world.


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, Doha and Bahrain. 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.

Brand’s Third Luxurious, Fractional Ownership Property in Colorado

The Ritz-Carlton Club – the industry’s leading private residence club – introduces its 10th Club to one of the country’s most sought-after ski destinations, Vail, Colo. This Vail luxury resort will be developed at the base of Vail Mountain in LionsHead Village and neighboring the banks of Gore Creek, offering a proposed 45 fractional residences featuring the city’s traditional Bavarian-style architecture hailing from ski resorts in Europe.

Located near the future gondola and within the same building as the new Ritz-Carlton Residences, The Club will afford Members all the comforts of a vacation home coupled with the legendary, personalized services and amenities of The Ritz-Carlton. Such luxuries are anticipated to consist of: a dedicated concierge staff, including a ski concierge; a fitness facility with a movement studio; Ritz-Carlton spa services and treatment rooms; Ritz Kids program; a great room with a fireplace and bar; a library; an outdoor heated pool and whirlpool spa; a fire pit and a heated underground garage with valet parking.

“The Ritz-Carlton Club, Vail will be a tremendous addition to the brand’s Colorado mountain resort collection,” said Peter J. Watzka, executive vice president and chief operating officer for The Ritz-Carlton Development Company, Inc. (an affiliate of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC). “We are pleased to join Vail Resorts in creating this ideal location for our Members. The Members spoke and we listened to their request for a Ritz-Carlton Club in this stunning mountain setting.”

With an annual average of 346 inches of powder, more than 5,200 skiable acres, expansive back bowls, 15 miles of recreation paths and surrounded by 350,000 acres of national forest, Vail has something for every member of the family including tubing, ski biking and ice skating. The new Ritz-Carlton Club, Vail will also be within walking distance to the Arrabelle at Vail Square, which provides shopping and dining opportunities.

The Ritz-Carlton Club residences will incorporate spacious two-, three- and four-bedroom floor plans ranging from approximately 1,300 to 2,874 square feet. The Club residences will provide magnificent views of Vail Mountain, fully-equipped kitchens with the finest appliances and slab counters, beautifully-appointed room finishes inspired by a contemporary interpretation of Alpine-style architecture, fireplaces, coffered ceilings, hardwood flooring in living areas, high-speed Internet and twice daily housekeeping.

Sales are targeted to commence in early 2009 for deeded, one-twelfth (21 days) interests. Pricing to follow at a later date.

The architectural firm for the fractional residence designs is 4240 Architecture located in Denver. Construction for The Ritz-Carlton Club, Vail has begun, and occupancy is scheduled for late 2010.


About The Ritz-Carlton Club
The Ritz-Carlton Club is a deeded, fractional ownership real estate offering combining the benefits of vacation home ownership with personalized Ritz-Carlton services and amenities. Designed as a private club, Members have the opportunity to access their luxuriously-appointed home Club or other Ritz-Carlton Clubs through reciprocal use privileges in accordance with reservations procedures. Members also have the ability to utilize additional time as available.

For more information on this luxury resort, please visit www.rcc-vail.com.