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IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON: IHG, NYSE: IHG (ADRs)], the world’s largest hotel group by number of rooms, announces today the formation of a strategic alliance with The Family of Orange Lake Resorts to create a new timeshare brand, Holiday Inn Club Vacations™.

Holiday Inn Club Vacations will launch in December 2008 with Orange Lake’s flagship 2,412 villa property in Orlando, Florida. This marks IHG’s first move into the timeshare market, one of the fastest growing segments of the U.S. holiday and vacation industry.  [Source: American Resort Development Association (ARDA)]

The conversion of the remaining Orange Lake resorts in Ascutney, Vermont (60 villas), Lake Geneva, Wisconsin (68 villas) and Panama City, Florida (18 villas) are scheduled to follow shortly after.

This alliance is unique in that it allows IHG to enter the timeshare industry, purely through an exclusive licensing and marketing agreement.  Orange Lake will continue to own, operate and develop these timeshare resorts as a privately held company.

 “This deal reinforces the strength of the Holiday Inn brand as we are able to move into the timeshare market with a good partner who knows the business well,” said Andy Cosslett, chief executive officer, IHG.   “We believe that timeshare is a natural progression for Holiday Inn due to our scale and customer base in North America. This comes at a time when the $1 billion global relaunch of Holiday Inn is progressing well.  This agreement fits well with our business model as we are able to introduce the Holiday Inn brand to a new set of customers without the need for capital investment. With both companies focused on growth the alliance brings with it the opportunity to expand into major North American destinations.”

Orange Lake is situated on over 1,400 acres with 2,412 villas, adjacently located to the new north entrance of Walt Disney World® Resort.  The flagship resort has over 25 years of proven success in Orlando, the number one leisure destination for U.S. travelers.  It offers a host of amenities including:

4 championship golf courses
7 swimming pools including a 12-acre outdoor entertainment complex
80 acre lake for water sports
Five restaurants
Retail and pro shops
 

“This is a great opportunity for our two companies because we share the same heritage and founder, Kemmons Wilson,” said Don Harrill, president and chief executive officer for The Family of Orange Lake Resorts.  “It was Kemmons’ vision that changed the landscape for family vacations through his creation of the Holiday Inn hotel brand in 1952. With the re-launch of Holiday Inn and the continued growth of our company, we are prepared to reach new heights for our customers—and together write the next exciting chapter in our history.  We believe this alliance will set the new standard by re-defining ‘quality time’ for families and for the timeshare industry today.”

The marketing and licensing agreement also includes: 

The construction of a flagship Holiday Inn Resort hotel on the Orange Lake site in Orlando
The marketing and rental of available timeshare villas through IHG’s extensive reservation system and distribution channels, including Priority Club® Rewards, the world’s largest hotel loyalty program with over 39 million members. Participation in the Priority Club Rewards program including earning of Priority Club points on rentals with qualified rates and redemption for room nights
The formation of the Holiday Inn Club™ exchange program which will allow members of Holiday Inn Club Vacations to exchange timeshare weeks for hotel nights at over 4,000 hotels in the IHG family of brands.  
About The Family of Orange Lake Resorts

The Family of Orange Lake Resorts has evolved from a “best-kept secret” as the world’s largest single-site timeshare resort to a multi-site network of over 2,400 villas in its portfolio. New resort additions in Wisconsin, Vermont and Florida have added vacation flexibility for a great number of owners who want to experience shorter getaways to nearby destinations. Orange Lake’s flagship property, located next to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, was established in 1982 by Holiday Inn® Founder, Kemmons Wilson. The company plans to continue the expansion of their flagship resort to 4,500 villas.  The Family of Orange Lake Resorts continues to be the “home-away-from-home” to more than 120,000 owners from all 50 U.S. states and more than 120 countries. 

About Holiday Inn
With nearly 1,400 hotels worldwide, Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts is the most widely recognized lodging brand in the world.  In fact, Holiday Inn was one of the first international hotel brands to establish a presence in China in 1984. Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts provides the services that business travelers need, while also offering a comfortable atmosphere where all people can relax and enjoy amenities such as restaurants and room service, swimming pools, fitness centers and comfortable lounges.  The casual atmosphere and amenities such as meeting and on-site business facilities, KidSuites rooms, Kids Eat and Stay Free programs, and the ability to earn Priority Club Rewards points that can be redeemed for great merchandise, airline miles or free room nights, demonstrate the long-standing commitment of Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts to serving travelers and have helped to establish the brand as “America’s Favorite Hotel.”  For more information about Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts or to book reservations, call 1-800-HOLIDAY or visit http://www.holidayinn.com/.

The $1 billion relaunch of the Holiday Inn brand family (comprising Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts, Holiday Inn Express and Express by Holiday Inn) will bring improved consistency and service levels, as well as a more contemporary brand image and identity, to almost 3,200 hotels worldwide. The global relaunch was announced in October 2007 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2010. To find out more about the relaunch, click here to read the news release on our corporate website, or visit the site at www.ihg.com/corporate.

About IHG
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is the world’s largest hotel group by number of rooms.  IHG owns, manages, leases or franchises, through various subsidiaries, over 4,000 hotels and more than 590,000 guest rooms in nearly 100 countries and territories around the world.  The Group owns a portfolio of well recognized and respected hotel brands including InterContinental® Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn® Hotels and Resorts, Holiday Inn Express®, Staybridge Suites®, Candlewood Suites® and Hotel Indigo®, and also manages the world’s largest hotel loyalty program, Priority Club® Rewards with over 39 million members worldwide.

IHG has more than 1,700 hotels in its development pipeline, which will create 150,000 jobs worldwide over the next few years.

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group’s holding company and is incorporated in Great Britain and registered in England and Wales.

IHG offers information and online reservations for all its hotel brands at www.ihg.com and information for the Priority Club Rewards program at www.priorityclub.com. For the latest news from IHG, visit our online Press Office at www.ihg.com/media

Patented Design Ensures Magellan Residential Cruise Ship One-of-a-Kind for 14 Years

Randall B. Jackson, chief executive officer of Residential Cruise Line Ltd. (RCL) announces the Company has received a United States Design Patent for the Magellan, the world’s largest residential cruise ship. Patent number US D570,277 S was issued to Randall Jackson on June 3, 2008. According to the Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the patent protects the ship’s design from others making, using, offering for sale or selling the design throughout the United States or importing the design into the United States for fourteen years from the date of the grant of the patent.

The original design patent was requested in August of 2006. Randall Jackson worked in conjunction with the internationally acclaimed Norwegian firm of Peter Yarn and Bjorn Storbraaten Architects A.S., to design a residential cruise ship with exclusive features and amenities never before been seen on a residential cruise ship of this magnitude.

“The Magellan will be a home-away-from home for many of its residents,” said Randall B. Jackson, chief executive officer. “With its unique design features protected by the patent issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office, every owner will be proud knowing their residence is unlike any other at sea.”

The Magellan offers full and fractional ownership of luxuriously appointed residences and penthouses as well as such unprecedented amenities as a full-service retractable marina, on-call private helicopters, a satellite broadcast capable theater and 24-hour on-call concierge service to name just a few.

Private residences on the Magellan range in price from $2.82 million to $8 million for penthouses and from $300,000 for fractional ownership residences.

For more information about ship specifics and full or fractional ownership opportunities, call 480-497-8833 or visit the Web site at http://www.ResidentialCruiseLine.com.

Diamond Resorts International (DRI), a global leader in the vacation ownership industry, signed a non-exclusive agreement with Smart Circle International to sell its vacation resort packages in the United States.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Smart Circle International,” said James R. Danz, RRP, DRI’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Given its proven track record for success in this industry and of reaching an extensive group of consumers, this partnership initiates sales of our luxury vacation packages to retail shoppers for the first time ever. Over 10 DRI destinations are currently being featured with more scheduled to be added early next year.”

Smart Circle International is a leading worldwide referral marketer that helps hotels and resorts increase visibility and traffic through its proven marketing programs and access to consumers via a network of professional distributors. DRI will be reaching out to prospective travelers within a retail event network that annually accesses over 50 million shoppers, face-to-face through 1,000 established retail distribution points across the United States and Canada.

George Graffy, President of Smart Circle International, said “Each retail location will be staffed by a Smart Circle In-Store Travel Consultant who will meet one-on-one with potential travelers and present the benefits of travelling with Diamond Resorts International to the most desirable destinations around the world.

“Partnering with Diamond Resorts International and its collection of luxurious resorts has enabled us to meet the demands of our most discerning customers,” said Graffy. “These are individuals who want to travel economically, without sacrificing the amenities, service and deluxe accommodations they expect to experience when they vacation.”

Simon Crawford-Welch, Ph.D., RRP, DRI’s President and Chief Operating Officer, said the company’s “portfolio of high-end resorts worldwide, and a hospitality brand that offers owners, members and guests a true home-away-from-home, makes for a terrific addition to the partnership we’ve formed with Smart Circle International. It will create a unique synergy between our organizations for an even higher level of quality and customer satisfaction.”

About Diamond Resorts International
Diamond Resorts International, with global headquarters 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 more than 370,000 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.

About Smart Circle International
Since 1989, Smart Circle International has been the dominant force in referral marketing worldwide. Major companies turn to Smart Circle International to build traffic, enhance brand loyalty, fill unused capacity and generate new customers. Smart Circle International reaches consumers face-to-face through its retail and community marketing networks. Smart Circle International (http://www.smartcircleinternational.com) is a trademark of Smart Circle International, Inc.

For more information, visit www.DiamondResorts.com

Sell My Timeshare NOW LLC, celebrates their fifth birthday and a remarkable success story of small business accomplishment. The Internet-based timeshare resales and rental advertising company has made noteworthy strides since their founding in 2003, as evidenced by their recent ranking on the Inc. 5000 list. CEO Jason Tremblay shares the strategy of the timeshare advertising company’s success.

Sell My Timeshare NOW LLC is a genuine good-news business success story, refreshing to hear in this day of corporate crashes and business bailouts. Celebrating their 5-year anniversary this month, the timeshare resales and timeshare rental advertising company has skyrocketed from a home based business with three employees to an online timeshare advertising leader, currently employing 140 people. Sell My Timeshare NOW’s website, www.sellmytimesharenow.com, sees an average of more than 76,000 visitors daily.

Jason Tremblay CEO of Sell My Timeshare NOW, as company celebrates 5-year anniversary.
“Happy Birthday Sell My Timeshare NOW. Timeshare buyers and renters, recognizing the opportunities of timeshare resales, have helped our company grow at a record setting pace in just five years,” says Jason Tremblay, the company’s co-founder and CEO. Tremblay, who is quick to talk about transparency in all of Sell My Timeshare NOW’s business practices, is just as plain spoken about what has lead to the company’s 520.9 percent growth rate or the fact that they now receive an average of over $1 million daily in offers to buy or rent timeshares.

“When prospective timeshare buyers and renters search online for timeshares, they consistently find Sell My Timeshare NOW at or near the top of the search results,” explains Tremblay. The company, whose revenues are up 46 percent over this time last year, offers an affordable, high-visibility venue for timeshare owners to advertise their timeshares for sale or rent to a global marketplace. They maintain their high-ranking position in Internet searches by staying on top of — and often ahead of — best practices for successful search engine optimization.

Sell My Timeshare NOW, recognized on the prestigious 2008 Inc. 5000 list as the fastest growing privately held timeshare advertising company in the US, ranked number 44 on the Inc. Top 100 list of Advertising and Marketing companies nationwide. Jason Tremblay and the rest of the management and staff plan to cut a cake and spend a little time celebrating their accomplishments on their fifth anniversary, but then will quickly be back to business and fulfill their vision for the future.

Sell My Timeshare NOW anticipates expanding in 2009 with additional call centers, beyond their Dover, NH corporate headquarters. They plan to increase outreach efforts to resorts and owners associations, offering new solutions for resale needs and to create additional multi-media Internet content as a way to expand efforts to educate the public about the benefits of timeshare.
CEO Jason Tremblay is available for media interviews by emailing steveluba(at)sellmytimesharenow.com or by calling (603) 516-0649.

About Sell My Timeshare NOW LLC
Sell My Timeshare NOW LLC is a privately held company offering advertising and marketing for timeshare resales and timeshare rentals via the Internet. Through the first week in September 2008, Sell My Timeshare NOW had presented its customers over $332 million in offers to buy or rent timeshares.

Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific has continued its rapid growth throughout Asia Pacific following the launch of the newly developed Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Wanaka on New Zealand’s South Island.

The brand new deluxe apartments, purpose built for WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham Owners, have been constructed adjacent to Mt. Aspiring Hotel, Lake Wanaka, itself managed by Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific.

According to the company’s CEO, Barry Robinson, the hybrid model of offering accommodation for both WorldMark South Pacific Club Owners as well as the general public is the key to its rapid growth.

“We have evolved the traditional timeshare concept into the much more flexible Vacation Ownership concept where members can use Credits purchased to holiday at any one of our now 18 resorts across the South Pacific region,” Mr. Robinson said.

“That, combined with our hybrid approach, where we also offer hotel rooms and suites to the general public, means we have two revenue streams which protect us from industry fluctuations. It’s a very robust business model.”

Mr. Robinson said that while some competitors’ development portfolios were being devalued, Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific continued to remain highly active as a resort development and management company.

With Wanaka completed, and major development and refurbishments underway at our resorts at Seven Mile Beach, Tasmania, Dunsborough, Western Australia and Coffs Harbour and Sydney, New South Wales, we are not only rapidly broadening our portfolio, we’re significantly lifting the standards in terms of quality and luxury,” Mr. Robinson said.

The Wanaka resort is only 40 minutes from the world-class ski resorts of Treble Cone and Cardrona and provides WorldMark South Pacific Club’s Owners with access to the company’s first ski destination. It is also only a short walk from the pristine shores of Lake Wanaka and only two minutes from Lake Wanaka village.

“Strategically, the Wanaka region fits our portfolio perfectly. It provides us with our first ski destination in the South Pacific region yet it is also famous as a year-round adventure destination,” Mr. Robinson said.

The resort offers a range of studio, one, two and three bedroom luxury apartments as well as a gymnasium, heated pool with water slide, spa pool, steam room and the fully refurbished Rafters Restaurant and Bar.

“Throughout the resort’s design and development, the emphasis has been entirely on providing a very high standard of finish and we are very happy with the outcome,” Mr. Robinson said.

“We are also very focused on providing personalised, friendly service so WorldMark South Pacific Club Owners are truly satisfied with the overall holiday experience.”

Wanaka is a one-hour drive from Queenstown and Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Wanaka becomes the 18th hotel or resort available to WorldMark South Pacific Club Owners throughout Asia Pacific.

The IFA Yacht Ownership Club is one of the latest prestigious luxury accommodations to join The Registry Collection.

The Registry Collection – the world’s leading luxury property exchange programme – is delighted to announce two new affiliations to its portfolio.

IFA Hotels & Resorts signed an agreement with the exclusive, by invitation only, programme, affiliating six of its IFA Collection properties in Dubai, Zanzibar, Portugal and South Africa, as well as the IFA Yacht Ownership Club to The Registry Collection.

In a second signing, the Martinhal Resort Residence in Portugal joins The Registry Collection. This property is at pre-completion stage but, once completed, will offer a range of luxurious beach accommodation in Sagres on the western Algarve.

Piaras Moriarty, IFA Hotels & Resorts’ vice president vacation ownership said: “We picked The Registry Collection because the IFA Collection needs a brand of extremely high quality to match it. Exchange is also a major priority and this affiliation is very important to us – we’re keen to add more and more inventory to it.”

Nick Turner, vice president, business development, at Group RCI said: “The Registry Collection members now have access to nearly 150 elite properties worldwide, 365-day concierge and off-plan vacations, enabling developers to offer a unique and powerful benefit to their customers, while building their own business.”

InterContinental Hotels Group is breaking into the timeshare market and at the same time reuniting its Holiday Inn business with the family that founded the brand.

The group has signed a deal with the family of Orange Lake Resorts to brand its 2,400-villa resort next to Disneyland in Orlando under the Holiday Inn marque.

Read the full story at FT.com – http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/46d67618-899b-11dd-8371-0000779fd18c.html?nclick_check=1

Travel Advantage Network (TAN), the nationwide leader in wholesale vacation accommodations, announced today that David Leski has been named the new manager for the company’s Total Vacation Services (TVS) Department. 

In his new role, Leski will be responsible for overseeing the department’s daily operations and managing marketing and teambuilding activities. A large part of his new position involves equipping TVS representatives with the tools they need to maximize vacation bookings and provide stellar customer service to TAN’s over 78,000 clients.

“We are very pleased to have David on board with TAN, and we’re confident that he’ll bring significant experience and enthusiasm to Total Vacation Services,” says TAN President and CEO Brad Callahan.

Leski joins TAN with more than 20 years experience in the travel industry. He most recently worked for Northwest Airlines, first as a reservationist, then as supervisor. He was promoted to Operations Manager of the airline’s Baltimore Reservations Office, where he supervised numerous employees and projects.

Leski has a B.A. from the University of Michigan, Dearborn and an M.B.A. in management from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN.  He was also the recipient of Northwest Airlines’ Leadership Award for the integral role he played in optimizing performance and employee morale in the airline’s Baltimore office. 

For more information about David Leski, contact Lorena Andon, Marketing Manager, at landon@planwithtan.com . To learn more about TAN, visit www.planwithtan.com. 

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.

Many families partake in the tradition of holding annual reunions, taking time out of busy lives to catch up with each other and celebrate.

However, today’s reunions are going in a different direction than sleeping on Grandma’s couch or having just a few hours in a park. Families are celebrating each other and renewing relationships between generations by taking long weekends or more to stay together-and many of them are doing so at a family member’s timeshare.

Americans bought $10.6 billion worth of timeshares last year, with 4.7 million people buying into them for the first time, according to the American Resort Development Association (ARDA). The properties let people more easily share their vacation experiences with extended families and, because timeshares often include full kitchens and a number of bedrooms, they can help reunion attendees cut food and lodging costs. Whether you’re meeting at a timeshare or anywhere else, the following tips from ARDA could help your reunion be a hit:

Theme It
Creating a theme for a family reunion is a great way to get some excitement generated around your event. Themes can also make things more fun when it comes to being imaginative with food, games, activities, invitations and just about every other aspect of the reunion. Family history themes are popular, as are reunions that celebrate a very special family member’s birthday or anniversary, or the family’s cultural heritage.

Icebreakers
You don’t need to occupy everyone all the time, but planned activities and icebreakers at your family reunion will provide an easy way for people who haven’t seen each other for a while to feel more comfortable together. Some great ideas for icebreakers can be found by visiting the Web site at family-reunion.com/icebreak.htm.

Make Mealtime Fun
Turn your kitchens into a traveling dinner. Let everyone share by creating a specialty from his or her hometown. Appetizers can be hosted by the cousins, dinner by the grandparents and dessert by the children. Timeshares provide full kitchens in every unit, helping to make dinner an event in itself.

Games And Activities
Be sure to have games for all ages. From Ping-Pong to shuffleboard, many vacation ownership resorts offer countless activities for all ages-not to mention the variety of activities in your resort area.

ARDA’s free helpful hints, “Take Time For Togetherness,” provides travelers with tips including invitations, selecting a location, icebreaker games, decorations and ways to stay in touch all year. It is available by request at www.vacationbetter.org.

Source: http://www.fortimeshareowners.com/throwing-a-fabulous-family-reunion/

Jumeirah Group Appointed by Timbers Resorts to Manage the Jumeirah Botany Bay Resort on St. Thomas Island

Jumeirah, the Dubai-based luxury international hospitality management group and a member of Dubai Holding, has been appointed to manage a luxury multi-use resort occupying the entire western tip of St. Thomas, one of the US Virgin Islands. This was announced at a signing ceremony held yesterday in St. Thomas attended by Gerald Lawless, Executive Chairman of the Jumeirah Group and David Burden, Founder and CEO of Timbers Resorts.

Located in a dramatic setting where the Caribbean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, the Jumeirah Botany Bay Resort, formerly known as The Preserve at Botany Bay, will be located 15 minutes away from the Cyril E. King International Airport in St. Thomas, with regular flights connecting the tropical island to the United States. Guests of the world-class luxury resort will enjoy several beaches, secluded coves, a pristine coral reef and a nature conservancy, fine dining restaurants and a beach club as well as a Talise Wellness spa.

Jumeirah will manage the five-star boutique hotel of 84 rooms, spread over nine graceful buildings in an intimate and secluded setting. Scheduled to open in 2011, the 400-acre resort will also include 30 fractional residences, 30 whole ownership villas and up to 20 grand estates. These serviced residences will be managed by Jumeirah Living, combining the luxury of a prestige hotel with all the privacy and comforts of home.

This management agreement with Timbers Resorts is a key addition to Jumeirah’s rapidly growing portfolio of luxury properties, with Jumeirah hotels and resorts currently under development in Phuket, Shanghai, Argentina, Mallorca, London, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Jordan, among others.

“We selected Jumeirah as the ideal hotel company to partner with at this unprecedented resort on the secluded western tip of St. Thomas,” remarked David Burden. “Based on their internationally renowned hotel experience in luxury service, they will be a perfect match for our discerning owners and resort guests.”

“We are impressed by Timbers Resorts’ commitment to responsible development and the care with which they intend to develop this protected enclave,” said Gerald Lawless, Executive Chairman of the Jumeirah Group. “With its secluded location in a tropical environment, the Jumeirah Botany Bay Resort will be true to our STAY DIFFERENT(TM) promise.”

AdvertisementThe island of St. Thomas has been inhabited for over 2500 years and the area features extensive pre-Colombian artefacts; the developers worked with a team of scientists to preserve the most sensitive aspects of the site and perform significant archaeological work. In addition, the resort will respect responsible construction principles, with the use of solar power, protection of reef and coastal areas, a desalinisation plant and planted roofs, among other initiatives. Jumeirah Botany Bay Resort will also contribute to the economic development of the island by creating jobs for the local population.

About Timbers Resorts
Founded by developer David Burden, Timbers Resorts has surpassed its competitors by offering a unique combination of equity ownership, vacation-home lifestyle and high-end resort amenities at each of their Timbers Collection properties. Designed for vacationers who want the best in luxury leisure, these properties provide personalized surroundings and services tailored to each resident’s tastes and preferences. The Timbers Collection is a group of small, private, luxury resort properties in the world’s most sought-after ski, golf, beach and scenic countryside locations. Owned, developed and operated by Timbers Resorts, these exclusive destinations combine hassle-free second-home ownership with the services and amenities of a five-star hotel. Current properties in the Timbers Collection include One Steamboat Place in Steamboat Springs, Colorado; The Preserve at Botany Bay on St. Thomas in the U.S.V.I.; Castello di Casole in Tuscany, Italy; The Rocks Luxury Residence Club in Scottsdale, Arizona; Esperanza Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; The Timbers Club in Snowmass, Colorado; and now The Orchard at The Carneros Inn in Napa Valley.

A unique – and indeed remarkable – benefit of owning a property in the Timbers Collection is the Timbers Reciprocity Program (TRP). TRP is a simple online reciprocity system that allows Owners at Timbers Collection properties the ability to trade vacation weeks at their home property for vacation weeks at other destinations in the Timbers Collection. Please visit the website www.trpmembers.com for more information on TRP. Other added benefits to membership in the Timbers Collection include Sentient Jet privileged access, Hertz Gold Level membership, access to custom guided trips by BACKROADS Active Travel Company and numerous other delights.

Further information on each of the properties can be found online at www.timbersclub.com, www.esperanzaresort.com, www.therocksclub.com; www.castellodicasole.com; www.onesteamboatplace.com; www.thepreserveatbotanybay.com; www.theorchardatcarneros.com or please visit Timbers Resorts at www.timbersresorts.com.

About Jumeirah Group
Jumeirah properties are regarded as among the most luxurious and innovative in the world and have won numerous international travel and tourism awards. The Dubai-based luxury international hospitality management group encompasses the world-renowned Burj Al Arab, the world’s most luxurious hotel, the multi-award winning Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Madinat Jumeirah and Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa in Dubai, the Jumeirah Carlton Tower and Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel in London and the Jumeirah Essex House on Central Park South in New York.

The Group’s activities are, however, not restricted to hotel and resort management. The Jumeirah Group portfolio also includes Wild Wadi, regarded as one of the premier water parks outside of North America; The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management, the region’s only third-level academic institution specializing in the hospitality and tourism sectors; The Taste Department, the company’s dedicated restaurant division; global spa brand Talise Wellness; Jumeirah Living, the Group’s luxury brand of serviced residences offering effortless living in luxurious surroundings; and Jumeirah Retail, with its 15 stores and dedicated luxury retail website www.jumeirahcollection.com.

Building on this success, Jumeirah Group became a member of Dubai Holding in 2004, a collection of leading Dubai based businesses and projects, initiating a new phase of growth and development for the group.

Jumeirah has extensive expansion plans to grow its portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts into key gateway or letterhead cities and aspirational resort destinations worldwide. Currently, the Group has several luxury five-star properties under development, including five in Dubai and others in Abu Dhabi, Aqaba, Doha, Phuket, Argentina, Mallorca and London. The Group is eagerly anticipating the grand opening of Jumeirah HanTang Xintiandi in late 2008, Jumeirah’s first hotel in the Asia Pacific region.

Latest Project Encompasses Hotel, Timeshare, Fractional Ownership, Whole Ownership Real Estate

Owen Perry, a partner in the highly successful “Villa Group”, has announced that it has broken ground for Villa del Palmar Loreto; the new 5 star resort is to be built as part of a spectacular 1800 acre resort development in Loreto, Baja Sur, Mexico.  Loreto is located on the east coast of the Baja California Peninsula facing the Sea of Cortez in the largest protected sea park in the world.  With practically no rain and a source of pure water coming from underground springs, Loreto is rapidly becoming one of Mexico’s prime vacation and second home destinations.  It is surrounded by the Sierra La Giganta, one of Baja’s highest and most breathtaking mountain ranges.  

Villa del Palmar Loreto will feature 161 one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas, all with views of the Sea of Cortez and the five islands. The first phase is slated to open in January 2010, with a complete investment of $60,000,000.00. Each villa will be decorated with elegant furniture and will include a living room, dining room, full kitchen with granite countertops, modern appliances and electronic equipment, and a 10’ wide spacious terrace in each Villa.  The Nature of the area will be the main feature designed into the property, complete with an activity center designed for the calm ocean of the Sea of Cortez, also low level lighting with Fire pits on the beach will provide for a spectacular evening.

According to Owen Perry, the master development eventually is projected to have   2200 rooms, divided into seven projects, with a variety of real estate products covering the spectrum of affordability and lifestyles.  Included in the overall make-up are timesharing, fractional ownership, whole ownership, restaurants, recreational opportunities and commercial retail operations, including a wellness center.  A high-end hotel to be named shortly is also on the books.   An 18-hole golf course, designed by Rees Jones, will be part of the development, scheduled to start construction in 2010.

Loreto, an hour flight from San Diego and an hour and a half from Los Angeles, is one of five beach resort areas that was slated for development as a tourism destination by Mexico’s national trust for the promotion of tourism (FONATUR) 20 years ago. Loreto has a rich history dating back to the first mission of the California’s in 1697. But it is the beauty, weather and beaches that is making this location the next popular destination of the Baja peninsula.

The property is situated in a secluded bay, where only hotel guests and owners will have access to the 3 miles of the secluded white sandy beach, located just 20 minutes from the international airport of Loreto, Baja Sur, Mexico.

Guests and owners will have access to a wide selection of amenities, including a state of the art 40,000 sq ft spa and gym, activities onsite include various restaurants, bars, convenience stores, full-service water activities center, swimming pools, tennis courts, golf, breath taking hiking trails and horseback riding. The original mission of San Javier is a short 2 hour drive for a unique day trip.

Alaska Airlines has reaffirmed its commitment to Loreto by adding more flights to the destination starting in November.
 
About The Villa Group
Founded in 1984, The Villa Group is one of Mexico’s leading privately owned real estate development companies. Its portfolio features beachfront timeshare resorts, with over 60,000 members, located in Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, and Los Cabos, as well as fractional, full-ownership luxury real estate developments, and hotels.   Another new resort is planned to open in Cancun in 2010.

Luxury Travel Destination Club Provides Members Access to 31 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, announced today its expansion into Europe with its first property in Tuscany, Italy.

“We are pleased to offer our first European destination in Tuscany,” said Steve Greer, founder and CEO of The LUSSO Collection. “This new residence, La Ripa, provides yet another truly luxurious getaway in one of the world’s most picturesque locations.”

La Ripa
Located just outside the picturesque city of Cortona, La Ripa is a 500-year-old farmhouse that has been restored to preserve its traditional, rustic Tuscan architecture including wooden beams, stone fireplaces, terra cotta floors and brick archways. The impressive five-bedroom home is nestled on 27 private acres and overlooks rolling hills and picturesque views of oak woods, cypresses and olive groves. With nearly 4,000 square feet set within scenic landscaped grounds, this villa is ideal for enjoying the enchanting  surroundings of Tuscany. LUSSO members have the opportunity to relax by the private pool, play a few rounds of bocci ball or take a quiet walk through the flower garden.

La Ripa is the ideal “base camp” for you to explore all that Tuscany, and the neighboring Umbria region, has to offer-and for exciting day trips to Florence and Rome.

The LUSSO Collection currently offers two membership options: LUSSO Unlimited and LUSSO 21. LUSSO Unlimited provides members with unlimited use of its properties in some of the most sought-after vacation destinations for a deposit of $425,000 and annual dues of $28,000. LUSSO 21, which is a new membership offering, enables individuals to experience LUSSO’s private luxury vacation homes for 21 days each year for a deposit of $325,000 and annual dues of $21,000.

The Tuscany property is the 31st home in one of 17 destination locations that The LUSSO Collection offers its more than 150 members. The company has an aggressive growth plan that includes having a portfolio of 39 homes in 21 destinations 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.

Joins Roster of Top 10 Producers in North America

Interval International, a leading provider of vacation services, announced that Interval Travel has earned the exclusive Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) President’s Club Elite status for its 2007 sales results. President’s Club Elite members represent the top 10 producers in North America and demonstrate the highest percentage year over year growth. Interval Travel attained Elite status for the first time this year, after receiving NCL’s President’s Club recognition for the past six consecutive years.

“We’re proud to be recipients of NCL’s highest recognition status because it’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our cruise team,” said Raul Estrada, vice president of U.S. member services for Interval International. “Our members enjoy cruising and the NCL ‘freestyle’ option further expands the array of high quality, flexible vacation experiences that are available to them.”

“We’re honored to count Interval among our partners and congratulate Interval’s cruise department on reaching President’s Club Elite status with NCL,” Lenny Martinez, NCL’s business development manager, added. “We hope that they proudly display the one-of-a-kind Versace engraved plate, which recognizes their accomplishment, and look forward to working with Interval for many years to come.”

In response to members’ interest in cruising, the Interval Travel Cruise Desk has been operating since 1997 to provide services to North American consumer member families. It represents a multi-million dollar operation and manages approximately 8,000 to 9,000 inquiries per month. The Interval Travel Cruise Desk is a Cruise Lines International Association Booking Agency, or “CLIA” certified.

Interval International operates membership programs for vacation owners and provides value-added services to its developer clients 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 more than 75 countries and offers its clients and nearly 2 million member families high-quality products and programs through 27 offices in 17 countries. Interval is an operating segment of Interval Leisure Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: IILG), a leading global provider of membership and leisure services to consumers and business-to-business customers in the vacation industry.

NCL Corporation Ltd. is the holding company for various subsidiary companies involved in owning and operating the ships of Norwegian Cruise Line. NCL is building two new third generation Freestyle Cruising ships for delivery in 2010. NCL today has the youngest fleet in the industry, providing guests the opportunity to enjoy the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising on the newest, most contemporary ships at sea, and has recently added it latest new ship, the 2,400-passenger Norwegian Gem. For high resolution, downloadable images, please log onto NCL’s web site at www.ncl.com/pressroom. For further information on NCL Corporation, contact a travel agent or NCL in the U.S. and Canada at (866) 234-0292.

Wellington Financial, the exclusive resort finance lending correspondent for Liberty Bank, recently announced they had arranged a $75 million timeshare receivables hypothecation facility for Bluegreen Corporation (NYSE:BXG), a leading provider of Colorful Places to Live and Play®.  The facility is led by Liberty Bank and the transaction was announced on August 28, 2008.

“We appreciate the participation of Wellington Financial and Liberty Bank and look forward to working with them in this new lending relationship,” said John M. Maloney Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are pleased to be able to enhance our liquidity and support our timeshare operations with this new facility.”

Wellington Financial Senior Vice President Shawn Brydge said, “Wellington Financial, Liberty Bank and the lender group are very excited to do business with Bluegreen, given their lengthy track record of success in the timeshare industry and impressive senior executive team.”  Donald Peruta, Liberty Bank Vice President, added “We are very pleased to lead this facility and add a terrific organization such as Bluegreen to our customer base of great timeshare developers.”

ABOUT BLUEGREEN CORPORATION
Bluegreen Corporation (NYSE:BXG) is a leading provider of Colorful Places to Live and Play(R) through two principal operating divisions. With over 190,000 owners, Bluegreen Resorts markets a flexible, real estate-based vacation ownership plan that provides access to over 40 resorts and an exchange network of over 3,700 resorts and other vacation experiences such as cruises and hotel stays. Bluegreen Communities has sold over 56,300 planned residential and golf community homesites in 32 states since 1985. Founded in 1966, Bluegreen is headquartered in Boca Raton, Fla., and currently employs over 6,000 associates. More information about Bluegreen is available at www.bluegreencorp.com.

ABOUT LIBERTY BANK
Established in 1825, Liberty Bank (www.liberty-bank.com) is Connecticut’s oldest mutual bank, with more than $2.7 billion in assets.  Liberty Bank has been actively lending to the timeshare industry throughout the U.S. for over 30 years.  The bank’s commitment to superior service has resulted in lending relationships with some of the industry’s largest and most successful developers.  Member FDIC.  Equal Housing Lender.

ABOUT WELLINGTON FINANCIAL
Wellington Financial (www.wellington-financial.com) has originated over $3.0 billion to the timeshare industry since its inception in 1981. The company specializes in lending to timeshare resorts, while serving the fractional and land industry as well. The finance and service company offers a full range of products, including receivables hypothecation, purchase and conduit facilities; pre-sale and working capital lines of credit; acquisition, construction and renovation financing, as well as mezzanine and equity debt financing.

On Tuesday, September 02, Festiva Resorts acquired the remaining unsold inventory at Rangeley Lake Resort in Rangeley, Maine. Less than two hours from the Canadian border and about an hour from New Hampshire, Rangeley is a four season destination with various year-round activities both at the resort and nearby including hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, fishing and much more.

The Rangeley Lake Resort has approximately 2800 owners and boasts 39 log cabin units; a clubhouse complete with a heated indoor pool, jetted hot tubs and cedar saunas; and a 120 foot dock on Rangeley Lake for swimming, boating, fishing and other lake activities. With hundreds of miles of snowmobiling trails on and around the property and several famous ski areas nearby including Saddleback and Sugarloaf, Rangeley Lake Resort
offers activities that will entertain a wide variety of interests.

“We are delighted to welcome Rangeley Lake Resort as our newest addition. As our first property in the Northeast, it will add even more high quality vacation options for our members and will provide a wide range of opportunities for Rangeley Lake owners,” said Don Clayton, Festiva Resorts’ Chief Executive Officer.

Festiva Resorts, founded in 2000, is an innovative and active vacation ownership sales and development company and is currently one of the largest privately held companies of its type in the country. With nearly 60,000 members among 24 vacation ownership resorts and four sailing vacation destinations, the company has experienced a remarkable amount of growth within the last few years.

Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Festiva has resorts throughout the Midwest, Southeast and Caribbean with several more locations on the horizon. Festiva’s founders made a commitment to their members and employees to constantly improve its products and services while preserving the family-oriented atmosphere upon which the company is based.

For more information visit www.festivaresorts.com.

Percentage of Profits To Benefit Waterkeeper® Alliance

Acapulco is perhaps the most famous Mexican resort along the Pacific coast. Just slightly east, however, the Bahias de Huatulco (wah-TOOL-ko) – Bays of Huatulco – seem to have slipped under the radar screen for many years. Along a 22-mile stretch of coastline sit nine bays – only three of which have been developed. Tangolunda Bay will soon be home to Encanto Villas & Residence Club – a private residence club with spectacular beachfront views of the Pacific Ocean.

Cincinnati developer Jeff Anderson of Jeffrey R. Anderson Real Estate, Inc. says what attracted him to this area was the local interest in preserving the environment. “Besides the obvious beauty and charm of Huatulco, I was impressed that it is the only resort community in Mexico to obtain Green Globe 21 certification,” Anderson explains. In fact, 70 percent of Huatulco’s land has been set aside as a protected ecological zone, and there’s even a “national park marine zone” along the coast, where sea life is abundant. “It only takes a short time to get to know the locals because of their openness and gracious hospitality,” Anderson adds. “The people of Huatulco are dedicated to preserving their environment, history and culture, while also welcoming tourists to discover their rich natural resources and contribute to the economy.“

With the most extensive coral reef system in Pacific Mexico, Huatulco’s beaches offer snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, boating, or good old-fashioned relaxation. The nearby Sierra Madre Mountains lure adventurers with whitewater rafting, kayaking, and waterfall-laden jungle tours. Now families can own an exclusive slice of this paradise without the hassle and risk associated with the purchase and upkeep of traditional second homes. Pricing begins at $150,000 for a one-tenth deeded interest in a spacious, fully furnished three-bedroom residence. Three-bedroom penthouses start at $190,000. Amenities include a private beach club, multiple pools, a fine dining restaurant, boat dock, fitness center and spa, and a club concierge.

“We decided a private residence club made the most sense for this unique piece of land along Tangolunda Bay,” Jeff Anderson says. “This is the last oceanfront property on the bay to be constructed, and we’re only developing the minimum amount necessary to create an intimate resort experience. Residence club owners purchase a fraction of a home, and they typically visit often. While we’re keeping the overall density low, owners will keep the tourism dollars flowing to help sustain Huatulco’s economy.”

Anderson has also decided to donate up to $1 million in net profits to Waterkeeper® Alliance. The non-profit, chaired by Bobby Kennedy, Jr., is dedicated to preserving and protecting waterways around the world. Donations from Encanto Villas & Residence Club will be directed toward supporting global water quality protection and the five Waterkeeper programs located throughout Mexico.

The residence club concept is growing in popularity as Americans discover the flexible and carefree lifestyle this type of vacation home offers. Industry consulting firm Ragatz Associates reports that luxury, shared ownership sales volume in 2007 was $2.3 billion, representing an 8.3 percent growth over 2006.

Anderson Real Estate has teamed with DCP International, which pioneered the Equity Residence ClubSM concept in 1992 with the Deer Valley Club at Utah’s prestigious Deer Valley Resort.

DCP Principal Steve Dering says, “Residence clubs are a sensible way to own in any market, but especially now. Members own deeded real estate in a prime location and prices reflect today’s economy. Not only is the purchase price commensurate with the amount of use, but the insurance, taxes, utilities, maintenance, replacement reserves and staff expenses are shared amongst owners. The club is operated for the benefit and exclusive use of its owners, similar to an equity golf country club.”

Encanto Villas & Residence Club is expected to open in winter of 2009. Currently, visitors can fly direct to Huatulco from Houston and Mexico City. Direct flights from Monterrey, Mexico are starting this month.

Encanto Villas & Residence Club Amenities and Services: 24 beautifully furnished three-bedroom residences & penthouses (Phase I), on-site concierge service, a private beach club, fitness center and spa, multiple pools, fine dining restaurant, private boat dock, pre-arrival grocery service, secured owner storage, daily housekeeping and on-site property management.

Huatulco Area Activities: Scuba diving/snorkeling, whitewater rafting the River Capolita, sea kayaking, surfing, jungle tours, chartered fishing tours, horseback riding, low-key nightlife.

TAN employees help fund a fall festival celebration for young heart patients

Travel Advantage Network (TAN), the nationwide leader in wholesale vacation accommodations, has taken a stand against congenital heart defects.  TAN is supporting those who suffer from these conditions through fundraising and donations to go toward a fall festival celebration for young patients. 

“Our TAN employees have made it a company mission to reach out to community charitable organizations,” said TAN President Brad Callahan.  “I’m extremely proud of how they join together for so many causes close their hearts.  Our caring employees are what make our TAN family so unique.”

TAN’s support of children with congenital heart defects was led by employee Jennifer Ross, who is also a significant supporter of this cause in her personal time.  Jennifer led TAN employees in raising funds and toy donations valued at close to $1,000 to be used at the fall festival.

TAN employees rotate each month by choosing an organization they wish to support; then fellow employees join in the fundraising efforts.  In addition to their support of children with congenital heart defects, since January 2008 TAN employees have raised and donated thousands of dollars to help in the fight against muscular dystrophy, autism, arthritis, juvenile alopecia and social issues such as hunger.

For more information, please contact Lorena Andon, TAN Marketing Manager, at 410.729.1133 ext. 145 or landon@planwithtan.com.

Sell My Timeshare NOW LLC announces that offers to buy timeshare or rent timeshare presented by their company already have surpassed the company’s 2007 year-end total. With just under four months left in 2008, this timeshare resales advertising company is preparing for yet another record-breaking year.

As Sell My Timeshare NOW LLC approaches its five-year anniversary, year-to-date timeshare sales and rental offers are nearing $350 million–an extraordinary accomplishment under any circumstances and a staggering one in these tight economic times.

Although offers to buy or rent timeshare had reached a record setting $274,272,859 by year-end of 2007, in 2008, Sell My Timeshare NOW soared ahead of that milestone, surpassing the previous year’s accomplishment by 21 percent with four months still ahead to widen the gap. The New Hampshire based timeshare advertising and marketing company recorded year-to-date offers to buy or rent timeshare of $332,701,702 by the week leading into the 2008 Labor Day holiday.

“Sell My Timeshare NOW makes it easy to enjoy timeshare, putting the control of buying and selling directly into the consumer’s hands,” says Jason Tremblay, co-founder and CEO of the company.

The timeshare advertising company uses their website, www.sellmytimesharenow.com, to advertise and market timeshares for sale or rent. Interested timeshare buyers and renters from anywhere in the world, at any hour of the day, can easily shop for timeshare that fits their budget and vacation needs. The consumer deals directly with the current timeshare owner, removing the middleman, controlling the cost, and eliminating the high-pressure sales pitch historically associated with timeshares sales.

To attract timeshare buyers and timeshare renters, Sell My Timeshare NOW, an Internet-driven company, uses cutting edge strategies of Internet marketing to guarantee that their websites are the most highly visible timeshare and vacation ownership sites on the World Wide Web.

The company’s Director of Marketing, Mehrl Martin, explains, “Sell My Timeshare NOW has grown from three employees to 130, all focused on helping timeshare buyers, renters and sellers realize their goal.” Martin elaborates by saying that the company monitors the Internet, day-by-day, hour-by-hour, to ensure that no matter how a timeshare buyer or renter is searching the Internet, the timeshares advertised by Sell My Timeshare NOW will be the first ones they find and the largest and easiest inventory to explore.

Sell My Timeshare NOW was recently recognized on the prestigious Inc. 5000 list as the fastest growing privately held timeshare advertising company in the US and number 44 on the Inc. Top 100 list of Advertising and Marketing companies nationwide. With a business growth rate of 520.9 percent between 2004 and 2007, Sell My Timeshare NOW sees an average of more than 76,000 visitors to their website each day. Tremblay describes the company’s growth and accomplishment as ‘exciting, but only the beginning’. “Timeshares are an affordable vacation choice. Sell My Timeshare NOW is working hard to make sure that people have a hassle-free way to enjoy them.”

About Sell My Timeshare NOW LLC:
Sell My Timeshare NOW LLC is a privately held company that provides advertising and marketing for timeshare resales and timeshare rentals via the Internet. In 2007, Sell My Timeshare NOW presented its customers over $274 million in offers to buy or rent timeshares.

SandCastles Expands Its Mexico Collection (http://www.sandcastles.com/)

SandCastles second offering, Dulce Suenos, (http://sandcastles.com/dulce-suenos) is located in Costa Alegre, Mexico. The Costa Alegre is a remote and pristine paradise located in the southern area of pacific coastal Mexico between Manzanillo and Puerto Vallarta. Costa Alegre is one of Mexico’s most spectacular coastal areas, a 145 mile stretch that connects tropical forests with a series of dramatic cliff-lined coves

Dulce Suenos is a spectacular Mexican-style villa located within one of the country’s most exclusive resorts, Isla Navidad. The Culebra Peninsula, south of Manzanillo, is an expansive recreational destination and boasts superb facilities including a stunning 27-hole golf course, two marinas and a tennis ranch and spa. The surroundings offer lush tropical vegetation as well as a romantic lagoon, all framed by the ocean.

Newly completed (’2006), the Dulce Suenos villa is located on a sandy beach adjacent to the fourth hole of the golf course. It is accessed via a gated entrance and offers a private and luminous retreat with all resort amenities nearby. The property boasts the following amenities:

Beachfront Location
Full Staff: Cook, Maid and Butler
Boat: Grady White Marlin 30′
Marina Boat Slip
Range Rover LSE
Golf Cart
Golf Club Membership
Steinway Piano
Designer Furnishings
Tennis Club Membership
Indoor/Outdoor living
Fully Air-conditioned
Gourmet Kitchen
Infinity Swimming Pool & Jacuzzi

“I am extremely pleased with SandCastles’ second offering,” says SandCastles CEO Bobby Gibson. “Not only is this villa located within an exclusive resort community, we deliver further value to our clients by included access to other luxury lifestyle assets. In Dulce Suenos, we have succeeded in creating a true villa resort. We can provide access to all of the amenities of a luxury resort while providing ownership in a spectacular luxury property. ”

SandCastles is an exciting outgrowth of our company’s nearly 20 years of experience as a leader in renting luxury properties in the most exclusive tropical vacation hotspots throughout Mexico, Belize, Costa Rica, Hawaii, and the Caribbean. Since 1991, Villas Caribe (http://www.villascaribe.com/), our family-owned sister company, has managed a collection of about 2,000 luxury villas in over 35 superb vacation destinations. Our expertise in specialized tropical travel has won Villas Caribe high praise in such prestigious publications as The Robb Report, Conde Nast Traveler, USA Today, Travel and Leisure, Islands Magazine, Caribbean Travel & Life and more. Luxury Villas International (http://www.luxuryvillasintl.com/) grew from our desire to offer our clients deluxe rental homes throughout Europe in such locales as Italy, France, and Greece; and North American vacation favorites like Malibu, Whistler, Aspen, Vail, and Palm Springs. Now our new venture, SandCastles, gives you a savvy way to own luxury property in the world’s most desirable destinations.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
730 Peachtree Street NE
Suite 580
Atlanta, GA 30308
Telephone: 877.815.1242
Fax: 404.601.9834
sales@sandcastles.com

Travel Advantage Network (TAN), one of the hottest and fastest-growing vacation programs in the travel industry, has partnered with GRAND Magazine, the nation’s first magazine dedicated to grandparents.

“GRAND Magazine is a natural fit for our company,” says Brad Callahan, TAN President. “Many of our clients are grandparents and are seeking vacation opportunities with their grandchildren and extended families. TAN’s travel program allows grandparents the flexibility and affordability to make vacation memories to last a lifetime.”

TAN clients can now receive a complimentary subscription to GRAND, as another value-added service TAN provides its clients. “We are always on the lookout for additional benefits we can offer our over 75,000 clients,” Callahan says. “I expect many of our clients in the 50+ age bracket will benefit from the advice and ideas contained in each issue of GRAND.”   

GRAND’s publisher, Christine Crosby, is excited about the opportunity to share GRAND magazine with TAN’s clients. “Grandparents play such a vital role in the lives of children and families today that we are thrilled to partner with TAN to help give grandparents the recognition and resources they deserve,” she says. “There are over 78 million grandparents in America – 39 million are Baby Boomers, and now for the first time, they have a magazine and website just for them.” Crosby adds, “Thanks to TAN, we are starting to get the word out about this exciting generation of grands and the amazing contribution they make to children and families.”

Since 1992, TAN has provided thousands of travelers in all ages and stages of life with affordable, condo-style accommodations from Hawaii to Maine, as well as Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean.  To learn more about TAN, call 410.729.1133 ext. 145 or visit www.planwithtan.com. For information about GRAND Magazine, visit www.grandmagazine.com.

RCI, the global leader in vacation exchange, and one of the Wyndham Worldwide family of brands (NYSE: WYN), has announced Club Mahindra Fort Kumbhalgarh in Rajasthan as the latest property to be added to its network of over 4,000 affiliated resorts in nearly 100 countries.

RCI now has 70 affiliated resorts in India with this affiliationproviding members a variety of holiday experiences from heritage holidays, beach holidays and wellness holidays to wildlife and hill station destinations.

“We are delighted to increase our footprint in the historic state of Rajasthan which is proving to be a popular destination for our members. The magic of Rajasthan lies as much in its history, heritage and culture as in its contrasting topography from arid sand dunes to its green forests with varied wildlife. From desert safaris, to colourful shopping extravaganzas, to immersing oneself in its luxurious heritage, Rajasthan has something to offer to everyone,” said Radhika Shastry, Managing Director, Group RCI, India. “Holiday makers look for varied experiences in their choice of destinations and it is our intent to offer members as wide a choice of holidays as possible”, she added.

Over the past few years the popularity of this destination has increased tremendously for both domestic and foreign tourists. Figures have shown a 27.8% increase in domestic and 54.6% increase in foreign tourist arrivals in the state since 2003. The reasons undoubtedly are its heritage properties. Decked with alluring palaces, magnificent forts, the atmosphere cradles rich culture and heritage that percolates through all of one’s senses. Each heritage property carries a story behind its existence. Like the 15th century Kumbhalgarh Fort, which even the mighty Mughals couldn’t capture alone, that it took the combined armies of Delhi, Amber and Marwar to breach its defenses. Standing majestically on a 1,914m high ridge, with one of the longest continuous walls in the world, the Fort also provides a panoramic view of the countryside from the top.

Club Mahindra Fort Kumbhalgarh is located just 5 kms away from the awe-inspiring Kumbhalgarh Fort and is a magnificent construction worthy of its imposing neighbour. Its architectural style incorporates space, luxury, and the exquisite art of the Rajput era, combined with the most modern facilities and amenities. The resort boasts 54 elegantly furnished apartment and a wide range of facilities including a multi-specialty restaurant, bar, health club, conference hall, swimming pool, Crocodile Club and Fun Club. Close to its vicinity are other tourist interests like the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, the Jain temples at Ranakpur, and Haldighati, the scene of the famous battle between Rana Pratap and Akbar.

Said Ramesh Ramanathan, Managing Director, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd., “We are delighted to announce Club Mahindra’s royal entry into the land of forts, Rajasthan, with Club Mahindra Fort Kumbhalgarh. Club Mahindra Fort Kumbhalgarh has been affiliated to RCI, as all Club Mahindra resorts. This enables our members to enjoy the benefit of exchanging into RCI’s worldwide network of resorts, as also allowing RCI members to experience the uniqueness of a Club Mahindra holiday. We are confident in RCI’s continued support in augmenting the visibility and occupancy of this magnificent resort.

For additional information on the services offered to developers by Group RCI and how they can add potential value to leisure real estate projects, visit www.grouprci.com.

The legendary travel company launches revolutionary equity-based residence club in a series of invitation-only events at Christie’s, the world’s leading art business

Abercrombie & Kent, the luxury adventure travel services company, today launched the much anticipated Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club by announcing a “Founders Offer,” an exclusive package providing many enticing new-member benefits. The announcement was made at Christie’s in New York City, marking the first in a week-long series of Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club events held at six different Christie’s locations throughout the country including New York, Greenwich, CT, Chicago, Houston, Dallas and Los Angeles.

The A&K Residence Club offers members access to multi-million dollar residences, European villas and private hotel suites in more than 30 destinations worldwide. Each property features Abercrombie & Kent’s brand of superior quality services, and renowned “insider access” experiences.

“Nearly 50 years ago, I founded A&K with an idea that revolutionized the travel industry — providing unexpected comforts and amenities to remote destinations,” said Geoffrey Kent, founder of Abercrombie & Kent. “Today, we are forging a new direction in the destination club industry with a Residence Club that is based on an equity model. The members own the properties and we provide services that can only be delivered by a company with A&K’s worldwide presence and travel service background.”

Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club “Founders Offer” details were released at an invitation-only event today at Christie’s New York, the start of a marketing partnership between the two renowned companies.

“Launching the Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club at Christie’s was a perfect showcase for the unique nature of the club,” said Jarvis J. Slade, Jr., A&K Residence Club president. “Both companies are leaders in their field, demonstrating a strong commitment to quality, exceptional services and unique offerings. We are excited to work with Christie’s as we launch the next generation of destination clubs.”

With today’s announcement, A&K Residence Club has begun offering club memberships to the general public. The club has been formed based on an equity model, which means the membership owns the properties.

Three levels of membership are available based on the number of nights the member would like to enjoy during the year. All memberships have the unique option of being able to exchange club membership nights towards any of Abercrombie & Kent’s more than 350 small group escorted journeys or tailor-made private travel.

The 15-day plan, which has an initial member capital contribution of $225,000, includes up to seven days that can be exchanged for A&K travel. The 30-day plan, valued at $390,000, includes up to 10 days available to be exchanged. The 45-day plan, valued at $495,000, also includes up to 10 days that can be exchanged.

The “Founders Offer,” which is available only for a limited number of new members through year end, extends the attractiveness of A&K Residence Club membership by providing more than $30,000 worth of incentives, including:

* Unaccompanied use of membership nights by family and friends for the lifetime of the membership (valued up to $20,000)
* Up to two weeks can be exchanged for A&K travel (30 and 45-day membership plans only)
* Guaranteed usage of the A&K Residence Club yacht for one week without additional surcharge or fees (valued at $10,000)

“The additional enhancements in the Founders Offer combined with our equity club model and A&K’s long-standing commitment to providing outstanding experiences makes our club unique in the destination club marketplace,” said Slade.

For more information, images and other media inquiries, please contact Paul Rakov, Vice President, Laura Davidson Public Relations, at (212) 696-0660 or via e-mail at paul@ldpr.com. Press materials and membership information can be found online at A&K Residence Club.

About Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club
Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club has revolutionized the industry with a series of unique membership benefits:

1 – A trusted and recognized brand with more than 45 years of changing how people see the world which gives members the security, safety and services that they expect
Founded in 1962 by Geoffrey Kent, Abercrombie & Kent has provided millions of unforgettable travel experiences to discerning travelers, exposing guests to exotic locales and changing their view of the world.

2 – Unmatched choice in travel options in over 106 countries and 30 destinations
Members enjoy access to an extraordinary collection of residences, stunning European villas, elegant boutique hotels, a private yacht and legendary Abercrombie & Kent travel experiences across the globe.

3 – Exceptional availability
The Club ensures superior availability of properties and travel experiences due to its’ low member to property ratio, ability to exchange their nights for experiences around the world with A&K travel, and a best-in-class approach for fairly handling holidays and peak demand periods.

4 – Peace of mind in equity
Having structured the Club as an equity model, members are assured of having access to a portfolio of debt-free properties that are owned by the membership, and an active voice in determining how the Club develops.

About Abercrombie & Kent
Born as a safari outfitter in 1962, Abercrombie & Kent’s unparalleled travel services now extend around the globe to more than one hundred countries on all seven continents. The company built its award-winning reputation by being the first to bring unexpected comforts and amenities to remote destinations. Small group or tailor made private travel with Abercrombie & Kent combines the convenience, service and security of a U.S.-based company with support 24/7 from a network of 60 on-site offices that ensure “by invitation only” access to inspiring experiences in a personalized, low-profile and intelligent style. The official site of Abercrombie & Kent – Abercrombie & Kent Inc

About Christie’s
Christie’s is the world’s leading art business with global art sales in 2007 that totaled £3.1 billion/$6.3 billion. This marks the highest total in company and in art auction history. For the first half of 2008, art sales totaled £1.8 billion / $3.5 billion. Christie’s is a name and place that speaks of extraordinary art, unparalleled service and expertise, as well as international glamour. Founded in 1766 by James Christie, Christie’s conducted the greatest auctions of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, and today remains a popular showcase for the unique and the beautiful. Christie’s offers over 600 sales annually in over 80 categories, including all areas of fine and decorative arts, jewelry, photographs, collectibles, wine, and more. Prices range from $200 to over $80 million. Christie’s has 85 offices in 43 countries and 14 salerooms around the world including in London, New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Geneva, Milan, Amsterdam, Tel Aviv, Dubai, Hong Kong and Zurich. Most recently, Christie’s has led the market with expanded initiatives in emerging and new markets such as Russia, China, India and the United Arab Emirates, with successful sales and exhibitions in Beijing, Mumbai and Dubai.

*Estimates do not include buyer’s premium

85% Say New Technology Means We’re Never Off the Clock, but 84% Say it Means More Quality Time with Family and Friends

Technology-addicted professionals just can’t keep their hands off their personal digital assistants (PDA’s), as new technology continues to transform the way we live and work. In a new work-life study from Sheraton Hotels & Resorts today, 85% of U.S. professionals surveyed said that because of modern technology, they feel compelled to be connected to work 24/7 and 81% say they work harder now than they did five years ago.

Most Folks Bring PDA’s into the Bedroom; 35% Pick their PDA Over their Spouse

Just how technology-addicted is our society? A whopping 87% of professionals bring their PDA into the bedroom and, in a potentially related finding, more than one-third of folks surveyed (35%) say if forced to choose, they’d pick their PDA over their spouse! The vast majority of people (84%) also say they check their PDA’s just before going to bed and as soon as they wake up, 85% say they sneak a peak at their PDA in the middle of the night and 80% say they check their e mail before morning coffee.

The Majority Love their PDA; Say New Technology Means More Time with Family

The Sheraton survey also revealed that, although we’re working harder and new technology means we’re never truly off the clock, it also enables us to spend more time away from the office and with family and friends. The days of being chained to a desk are over: 85% say that PDA’s and cell phones allow them to spend more time out of the office and 79% feel they can be just as productive outside of the office as opposed to inside. Most people feel that technology gives them more quality time and flexibility with family and friends (84%), 77% say their PDA helps them enjoy life more and 62% love their PDA.

New Tech Makes Business Travel Seamless and Easier to Stay Connected to Home

Sheraton commissioned the work-life study to launch a new signature offering: “Link@Sheraton experienced with Microsoft,” a unique lobby lounge that enables guests to stay connected, work and socialize through free Wi-Fi and Internet-enabled computer stations, video-chats, televisions and daily newspapers. The vast majority of professionals surveyed (88%) say new technology makes business travel easier or more seamless and 85% say new technology helps them stay better connected to family and friends when traveling on business.

The study was conducted by STUDYLOGIC LLC, who surveyed 6500 workplace professionals via phone with an individual income of $50K+, 2+ business trips per year and a Blackberry or mobile email device. Five countries were surveyed, including the U.S. (1,500 respondents), China, Australia, the United Kingdom and Germany.

Helping guests make connections at more than 400 hotels in 75 countries around the world, Sheraton is revitalizing its iconic brand while continuing its aggressive international expansion by adding 54 hotels and 20,000 guestrooms by 2009. 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, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched AloftSM, and ElementSM. 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.

American Resort Development Association Encouraging Families to “Take Time for Togetherness”

Honoring the long tradition of connecting far-flung families through timeshare resorts, the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) offers “how-to” travel options to help make family reunions fun, affordable and stress-free. As the summer travel season closes, ARDA provides travelers looking ahead to next year’s family get-togethers with suggested reunion activities, location ideas and success tips as part of its “Take Time for Togetherness” initiative.

Family reunions continue to grow in importance—and according to a recent Orbitz study, 50 percent of respondents said their favorite group to travel with is their extended family. And although the survey respondents wanted to be together for activities and meals, when asked about preferred sleeping arrangements, most said they wanted privacy.

“Today’s family reunions look very different than yesterday’s outdoor picnics and sleeping on your grandmother’s couch. Families now want to make the most of traveling long distances to visit relatives,” said Howard Nusbaum, ARDA president and CEO. “From spacious accommodations to activities for everyone, many travelers are turning to timeshare products as vacation options for family reunions. Timeshare continues to provide an experience for large families to be together, while still retaining space for themselves.”

“Take Time for Togetherness” provides travelers with event planning tips, including managing invitations, selecting a location, ice-breaker games, decorations and ways to stay in touch all year long. The helpful hints are available at www.vacationbetter.org.

“Every year for the past thirteen years, I’ve received the best holiday gift a person could hope for—three generations of my family coming together for a week during the Christmas season,” said Susan Humme, a timeshare owner. “I feel so lucky that all of us have been able to get together at MountainLoft in the Great Smoky Mountains and enjoy family time together year after year. It really makes the most wonderful time of the year even more special,” she added.

Everyone deserves not only a vacation, but a better vacation—especially when it’s a family reunion.

The results of the European Property Awards in association with CNBC Television and SIMA for 2008 have just been revealed and the Anfi Group is delighted to announce that it has won an award in the category of best development. The award will be presented at a glittering gala dinner to be held at the Sheraton Park Lane Hotel in London on 27th September.

The fact that the Anfi Group earned one of these coveted awards is sure proof that Gran Canaria can not only compete but also triumph within this highly competitive arena. Having been given this high recommendation by its peers, the company is now entitled to display the Property Awards’ logo with pride.

Entries were judged by a panel of professionals whose collective knowledge of the property industry is second to none and unsurpassed by any other property awards. Chaired by Eric Pickles, British Shadow Secretary of State, this year’s judges included Helen Shield, editor-in-chief of International Homes magazine; Peter Bolton King, chief executive of the National Association of Estate Agents; Phil Spencer, property expert and presenter of Channel 4’s Location and Relocation TV shows; Imtiaz Farookhi, chief executive of the National House Building Council; Christopher Hall, past president National Association of Estate Agents; Thijis Stoffer, International Consortium of Real Estate Agents Association (ICREA); Alejandro Escurdero, SIMA; Kirkor Ajderhanyan, French Real Estate Federation (FNAIM); Graham Norwood of the Daily Mail; David Hoppit, property writer; Jill Keene, editor of International Homes magazine; Diana Yakely, chairman British Interior Design Association; and Tad Zurlinden, Association of Relocation Professionals.

John MacDonald – Sales & Marketing Director, said of the award, “To receive the award for best development is a fantastic achievement for the Anfi Group and, we hope, well deserved. Our goal has always been to provide a 5-star resort with a service to match, and to receive recognition of what we have achieved from such a prestigious source as CNBC is a great accomplishment of which we are very proud.”

Entertainment Complex On World’s Most Revolutionary Ship Introduces New Venues, Giving Guests More Choices

The curtain has been raised on another neighbourhood aboard Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International’s newest and highly anticipated ship set to launch in November 2009. Entertainment Place, a complex of diverse entertainment venues, is one of seven neighbourhoods on the world’s largest and most revolutionary cruise ship – a unique concept providing holidaymakers with the opportunity to seek out relevant experiences based on their personal style, preference or mood. Previously announced neighbourhoods include, Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, and the Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center.

A contemporary night club district, Entertainment Place will introduce new signature after-dark spaces in more intimate venues that offer a variety of entertainment experiences. The new collection of venues will include Blaze, the hottest nightclub at sea; Jazz on 4, an intimate lounge filled with live jazz and blues; and Comedy Live, featuring side-splitting comedy. Dance enthusiasts also will be able to enjoy an elegant evening in Dazzles, a dance lounge featuring musically themed evenings including dance lessons and competitions. A video showing a preview of Entertainment Place with interviews from Royal Caribbean’s executives can be viewed on www.OasisoftheSeas.com.

Whether guests are looking for a mellow low-key evening or an exhilarating high-energy ‘night on the town,’ Entertainment Place will have an experience to suit any mood. Those in need of a good belly laugh will be drawn to Comedy Live, the comedy club where headline acts will interact with the audience and provide engaging and customised performances each evening. The festive space with décor inspired by a New York subway station, features an underground theme with bright casual furnishings, glazed tiling and a ceiling map of the subway system.

Inspired by prohibition-era Chicago, Jazz on 4, with its warm tones of rich walnut panelling, plush sofas and chairs and velvety drapes accented with hand-stitched Swarovski crystals, will provide an intimate experience as guests enjoy soulful rhythms. Blaze, with its dramatic entrance of doors ‘burning’ with hot flames and a ‘charred’ threshold, delivers the quintessential nightclub experience where guests can dance the night away to pulsating music in a hip and trendy atmosphere.

Oasis of the Seas also will offer guests some of the most captivating theatrical productions ever created by the cruise line’s award-winning Royal Caribbean Productions team. The Opal Theater, Oasis of the Seas’ state-of-the-art 1,380-seat main theatre, will feature a thrust stage and proscenium extending into the audience space to create a more intimate and interactive environment. Entertainers will make their entrances from unexpected locations around the venue and perform aerial acrobatics enveloping audience members in an experience which unfolds around and above them. The popular Studio B with its ice skating rink will continue to awe guests with spectacular and vibrant ice shows and serve as the locale for a variety of themed events.

In the heart of Entertainment Place will be the largest and most sophisticated casino found at sea. Guests will enter Casino Royale through two themed walkway entrances, The Hall of Odds and The Museum of Gaming, immersing guests in the history and world of gaming. The elegant and stylish casino, reminiscent of the classic casinos found on the French Riviera, features dramatic sculptured architecture, sparkling crystal chandeliers and décor in jewel-toned hues of amethyst, aquamarine and ruby. Casino Royale will feature 450 slot machines; extensive table games including Blackjack, roulette, craps, and Caribbean Stud Poker; and a bar and lounge area from which to take in the casino action. Other amenities include a sports book, poker room and players club.

Sure to be popular with guests, Dazzles is a spectacular venue – spanning two decks – with an expansive wall of floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views of the Boardwalk and AquaTheater beyond. The new dance lounge will offer a variety of musical experiences ranging from 1940’s big band to disco to ballroom evenings. In the evenings, the elegant space is theatrically illuminated with dazzling constellations of small twinkling lights reflecting off glass and mirrored surfaces above and below. During the day, Dazzles will be open for guests to enjoy the view of the bustling activity on the Boardwalk over a drink or to learn a new dance move with a professional dance instructor.

A multitude of entertainment experiences will be found in all of the seven neighbourhoods on Oasis of the Seas. From musical and theatrical street performances in the tranquil gardens of Central Park or on the festive Boardwalk, to the daring aerial acrobatic performances in the Royal Promenade, which will introduce a new dimension to Royal Caribbean International’s signature street parades, guests will be engaged throughout their cruise holiday. AquaTheater will deliver a complete sensory experience playing on the element of surprise as audience members witness the venue come alive with heart-pounding theatrical performances featuring dramatic aerial and aquatic acrobatics, as well as elaborate fountain shows synchronised to music and lights. The On Air Club, located in the Royal Promenade, will have energy day and night with television monitors featuring news, sporting events and music. In addition, guests can put on a performance of their own on stage singing karaoke or create their own music video in a private video booth. Also in Royal Promenade, are other popular Royal Caribbean International venues, Boleros Latin club and the Schooner Bar, featuring sing-along entertainment. Club 20, a high-energy late night dance club experience under the stars, will transform the adults-only Solarium into an evening hot spot.

When she launches in late 2009, Oasis of the Seas will be the largest and most revolutionary cruise ship in the world. An architectural marvel at sea, she will span 16 decks, encompass 220,000 gross registered tons (GRT), carry 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. Oasis of the Seas will be the first ship to tout the cruise line’s new neighbourhood concept of seven distinct themed areas, which include Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center and Entertainment Place. The ship will sail from her home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

For more information please visit www.oasisoftheseas.com, call Royal Caribbean International on 0845 165 8330

Offering an Unrivaled Dimension of Luxury, Sophistication and Unparalleled Service, The St. Regis Bali Resort Features World-Class Cuisine, a Luxurious Remede Spa, and the Signature St. Regis Butler Service set within an Exclusive Beach Enclave

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) today announces the opening of The St. Regis Bali Resort, located in Nusa Dua, an elite beach enclave on the Southern tip of Bali. Offering an unrivaled dimension of luxury, bespoke service and refined elegance at one of the best addresses in the world, The St. Regis Bali Resort features 79 luxurious, oversized suites, 42 private villas and two exclusive Residences, as well as world-class restaurants and bars, a signature Remede Spa, an intimate wedding chapel, ballroom and state-of-the-art meeting space. Owned by PT Pacific Resorts Buana Indonesia, a subsidiary of PT Rajawali Corpora, The St. Regis Bali Resort occupies a breathtaking beachfront location with spectacular views of the Indian Ocean and neighboring Bali Golf & Country Club.

“We are delighted with the opening of The St. Regis Bali Resort. Truly one of the world’s most desirable destinations, Bali is rich in culture and heritage and perfect for our global St. Regis guest,” said Miguel Ko, President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific. “As arrival figures into Bali grow exponentially, we are honored to witness the perfect timing with the opening of this most extraordinary luxury resort in Asia and beyond.”

Azure waters, calm lagoons and soft, sandy beaches create a tranquil and exclusive setting for this exotic island oasis. The St. Regis Bali Resort’s extraordinary landscape architecture by Bensley Design Studios weaves together art, traditional Balinese design and natural influences, while interiors by Manny Samson and Associates combine rich imported fabrics with indigenous materials and cultural artifacts that reflect the island’s rich heritage. Exquisite furnishings and amenities in the resort’s guest rooms and suites create a soothing yet luxurious setting for discerning global travelers.

Dining at The St. Regis Bali Resort indulges the senses with a diverse menu of sophisticated island-inspired cuisine. Kayuputi, a dazzling beachfront restaurant with stylish interiors, features an exotic menu of caviar, Wagyu beef and seafood al fresco in a private cabana against an ocean backdrop. At the resort’s second restaurant, Boneka, guests are invited to savor authentic Asian-style dishes in a sophisticated and relaxing setting. The King Cole Bar honors the legacy of the Astors and the brand’s flagship property in New York, the birthplace of the famous St. Regis creation, the Bloody Mary. Home-made delicacies and imported fine culinary delights are available at Gourmand Deli. The St. Regis Butler Service is also available to prepare a private, in room-barbecue for guests, accompanied by a personal chef and sommelier.

A suite of pampering services is available at The St. Regis Bali Resort’s Remede Spa, set in a serene corner of the resort, surrounded by Koi Carp pond. Featuring twelve treatment rooms, the spa offers both traditional treatments and modern Remede therapies to create the ultimate spa experience. The signature Lulur Experience of Indonesia includes gentle exfoliation with a paste of sandalwood, turmeric, ground nuts and rice. Other facilities include an Aqua Vitale Pool, for a full body underwater massage, two phenomenal spa suites and a yoga center.

For guests seeking an exclusive and romantic wedding destination, The St. Regis Bali Resort offers an exceptional wedding venue, unparalleled in setting and service. Located directly on the resort’s private beach, the Cloud Nine Chapel is both intimate and elegant, while the Cloud Nine honeymoon villa offers a majestic setting for an unforgettable wedding experience.

An ideal choice for meetings on one of Asia’s leading resort islands, The St. Regis Bali Resort offers an exclusive beachfront location for social and corporate gatherings, featuring two boardrooms, state-of-the-art meeting and function space.

“The strength of the St. Regis brand with its rich history and timeless innovation is an essential component for our partnership and we believe The St. Regis Bali Resort is set to raise the bar for the hospitality industry within the resort island,” said Erhard Hotter, CEO Hotel Operations, PT Rajawali Corpora.

Following in the tradition of the legendary St. Regis Hotel New York, The St. Regis Bali Resort will feature the famed hallmarks of St. Regis hotels including the iconic St. Regis Butler Service, bespoke guest experiences and luxury accommodations tailored to meet global travelers’ needs. Trained in the English tradition, the butlers provide ever-present, yet unobtrusive service while anticipating guests needs and customizing each guest’s stay according to his or her specific tastes and preferences. The resort offers guests 12-hour and 24-hour personalized butler service, as well as separate butler quarters, complete with a private entrance, for each villa.

The St. Regis Bali Resort joins a select portfolio of St. Regis hotels in the best addresses around the world including Aspen, Beijing, Bora Bora, Houston, London, Mexico City, Monarch Beach, New York, Rome, San Francisco, Shanghai, Singapore and Washington, D.C.

For more information on The St. Regis Bali Resort, please visit: www.stregis.com/bali

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 Bangkok, Jakarta, Lhasa, Kuala Lumpur, Macao, Osaka and Tianjin. In the Middle East, St. Regis will expand in Cairo, Doha, Dubai, 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.

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
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, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis(R), The Luxury Collection(R), W(R), Westin(R), Le Meridien(R), Sheraton(R), Four Points(R) by Sheraton, and the recently launched Aloft(SM), and Element(SM). 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.

Future accommodations are rooted in Walt Disney World history

Two highly anticipated resort developments announced today will expand the Walt Disney World experience and continue the rapid growth of Disney Vacation Club, Disney’s innovative vacation-ownership program:

the 15-story Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is scheduled to join the Disney Vacation Club family of properties in fall 2009, while the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, scheduled to open in summer 2009, will become the next room category offered at that resort.

Disney Vacation Club also announced that Bay Lake Tower sales are scheduled to begin on Sept. 21 for Disney Vacation Club Members, while sales to the general public and sales for the newest phase of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will begin at a later date.

“Our founder, Walt Disney, was well known for having one foot in the past and one in the future,” said Disney Vacation Club President Jim Lewis. “These new resort developments share that dynamic sensibility, blending modern luxury and design with the nostalgic spirit of two of the most storied resorts in Walt Disney World history.”

The announcement comes during an unprecedented era of growth for Disney Vacation Club, established in 1991 to give families decades of affordable vacations at Disney destinations and beyond. Disney Vacation Club membership has more than doubled since 2004, expanding to include more than 350,000 individuals from approximately 100 countries and every U.S. state.

That membership growth has also driven Disney Vacation Club expansion, inspiring Walt Disney Imagineers to dream up new vacation home opportunities. In addition to Bay Lake Tower and the Treehouse Villas, development continues on Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort in California and the recently announced resort at Ko Olina on the island of Oahu.

“What excites me most about this tremendous growth is that we’re not only creating new accommodations, but new experiences,” Lewis said. “Each of the projects we’ve undertaken at Disney Vacation Club is unlike anything previously available in our resort portfolio, and both Bay Lake Tower and the Treehouse Villas proudly build on that tradition.”

Blow Tinker Bell a kiss goodnight from a furnished vacation villa at Disney Vacation Club's newest resort, Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort. Scheduled to open fall 09

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
The new, curvilinear Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is designed to complement the fabled styling of the original building, which opened with the Magic Kingdom Park on Oct. 1, 1971, and featured comedian Bob Hope as master of ceremonies. Mimicking the color palette and strong horizontal lines of its iconic predecessor, the new structure even sports a rooftop lounge inspired by the original resort’s A-frame architecture.

The tower’s crescent shape, hugging lush landscaping, planned recreation options and a lakeside pool, promises to deliver some of the most dramatic views available anywhere at the Walt Disney World Resort. Some villas face scenic, undeveloped stretches of Bay Lake, while others offer spectacular views of the Magic Kingdom Park, located a short walk away.

The views promise to be equally appealing inside the tower’s 295 two-bedroom-equivalent villas, where visionary design meets Disney chic to define the vacation experience. As the closest resort to the Magic Kingdom Park, Bay Lake Tower guests can easily return to their rooms for quick breaks from their busy day in the Park, where they can relax in an inspiring setting offering many of the conveniences of home.

Most of the rooms in this iconic resort will feature innovative touches, such as modern artwork designed specifically for Bay Lake Tower, flat-screen TVs, full kitchens complete with granite countertops and modern appliances, separate bedrooms, washers and dryers, and other home-like amenities. Plus, to accommodate larger families or families traveling together, many Bay Lake Tower vacation villas are designed to sleep up to nine, though some units can also be divided into one-bedroom villas that sleep five and studios that accommodate four, creating flexible options for smaller groups.

“These vacation homes will be furnished with some amazing custom pieces that are works of art unto themselves,” said Imagineer Brian McFarland. “It’s all about maintaining that feel of clean lines and open spaces, with plenty of Disney touches.”

Add to the plans a spacious lobby filled with woven woods and glass-wrapped columns, sweeping views from a rooftop lounge and fireworks viewing deck, and the convenience of a sky bridge linking families to shops, restaurants and the monorail station, and you have a Disney Vacation Club destination that is both practical and fashionable.

The tree house you dreamed of as a child can soon be your vacation villa. Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. Disney Vacation Club, scheduled to open summer 09

Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Meanwhile, nestled in natural forest glens just around the river bend from the bustling Downtown Disney area, the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will mark the newest phase of what has become the largest Disney Vacation Club resort. Phase one of the idyllic lakeside community debuted in 2004, and phase three sold out earlier this year.

This new phase will revive Walt Disney World “treehouse living,” a cherished tradition from 1975-2002. While crews are replacing villas of the ’70s with brand-new vacation homes, Imagineers took special care to honor the original octagonal design.

The construction process itself is unique as each stand-alone Treehouse Villa will come together like a giant 3-D puzzle to ensure both superior quality and environmental sensitivity.

All 60 three-bedroom homes, elevated 10 feet off the ground on pedestals and beams designed to blend into the forest environment, will sleep nine and are planned to offer modern luxuries such as cathedral ceilings, granite countertops and flat-screen TVs, all presented in a style dubbed “cabin casual.”

“I was lucky enough to have a treehouse as a kid, but it was certainly nothing like this,” said Imagineer Todd Thomasson. “In developing this resort, we’ve all learned a new word, ‘glamping,’ which apparently means glamorous camping. The Treehouse Villas will be glamping at its absolute best.”

Disney Vacation Club is owned by Disney Vacation Development Inc., part of the magic of The Walt Disney Company. To learn more, visit www.disneyvacationclub.com.

Destination Hotels & Resorts, a leader in the management of independent high-end hotel, resort and residential properties, has partnered with LRA Worldwide, Inc. to develop a unique guest experience diagnostic program for its portfolio. LRA will send consultants to every Destination property to assess service delivery at each guest touch point and provide prescriptive measures on how to enhance the guest experience at each of these “moments of truth.”

LRA, a leading provider of performance measurement services to the global hospitality industry, worked closely with Destination leadership to develop a completely customized program. The challenge was to create a tool that would be appropriate within Destination’s unique portfolio properties, yet still create some common expectations, platforms and tools around service delivery and guest experience that were useful for property and corporate leaders alike.

“LRA’s reputation within the industry for creating custom evaluation programs made them a logical choice as a prospective partner,” explained Mark Hickey, senior vice president of hospitality operations for Destination Hotels & Resorts. “Their willingness to invest the time and energy to gain a true understanding of our company, culture, portfolio and what we hoped to accomplish with this program has left little doubt that we made the right choice.”

The Destination Hotels & Resorts portfolio runs the gamut from the modern, boutique Hotel ICON located in downtown Houston to the picturesque L’Auberge Del Mar on the California coastline, to luxury ski destinations in Vermont, Colorado, California and golf properties in South Carolina, Oregon and Washington. All are united, however, by Destination’s primary mission of creating exceptional guest experiences, with the full understanding that the delivery of that experience might be different in Tarrytown, New York and Austin, Texas. Thus, the need to create a flexible program that would effectively diagnose any guest experience issues without adhering to a rigid set of requirements.

“LRA is well known for running large corporate QA programs,” said John Roberto, LRA’s Senior Vice President and Managing Director of the Quality Assurance Practice. “But we also have a team of expert, highly-skilled professionals executing programs for smaller brands, high-end independents and niche offerings. I think Destination recognized the personalized service and expert insight we could provide that will benefit all of their stakeholders – guests, employees, property management and corporate leaders.”

LRA’s Quality Assurance practice works with seven of the top 10 hotel companies in the world – including Starwood Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels Group and Hyatt Hotels & Resorts – as well as with many smaller companies with an eclectic portfolio similar to Destination’s. In all, LRA conducts nearly 13,000 site visits and evaluations each year. In addition to its lodging clientele, LRA provides QA services to industry leaders in sports (PGA TOUR, Delaware North Companies), Conference Centers (ARAMARK), Timeshare (Interval International, Shell Vacations Club), Gaming (Churchill Downs, Stratosphere Las Vegas), and Homebuilding (Toll Brothers), among others.

About Destination Hotels & Resorts
Destination Hotels & Resorts (destinationhotels.com) is a privately held lodging management company headquartered in suburban Denver, Colo. With more than 30 independent, luxury and upscale hotels, resorts and golf clubs, Destination is the fourth largest independent hospitality management company in the country. The company’s portfolio features more than 6,000 guest rooms, 11 golf courses and 13 full-service spas. Destination Hotels & Resorts properties are located in key metropolitan and resort markets including Washington, D.C., Houston, Denver, San Diego, Santa Fe, Aspen, Austin, Phoenix, Portland, Palm Springs, Maui and Lake Tahoe. The company is a subsidiary of Los Angeles-based investment, development and management firm Lowe Enterprises.

About LRA Worldwide, Inc.
LRA Worldwide (lraworldwide.com) is a leading research and consulting company in the emerging discipline of Customer Experience Management (CEM). We work with our clients to help them design and deliver consistently exceptional customer experiences in order to drive customer satisfaction, loyalty and advocacy, and company growth and profitability.

In LRA’s 25-year history, we have grown from a provider of customized quality assurance evaluation programs for the hospitality industry, to a leading CEM consulting company offering a variety of client solutions. The evolution has been driven by our clients asking us one question – “How do we get better?” In response, we have built a range of performance measurement, research, training and consulting solutions to help them do so. Today, we are a growing company operating in more than 120 countries throughout the world, helping clients such as Starwood Hotels & Resorts, the National Basketball Association, the PGA TOUR and Ritz-Carlton Clubs deliver exceptional customer experiences. Every touch. Every time.

Montana’s Private Residence Club Forms New Position

Meriwether Ranch, Melrose Montana’s Premier Ranch and home of the Nation’s First Private Residence Club for the Outdoorsman has named Lauren Ellingson to the newly formed position of Director of Communications. Her primary responsibilities will be to coordinate marketing and public relations, work with outside service providers and aid and bolster regional real estate brokers.

A graduate of Iowa State University, Lauren holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Service and Administration in Agriculture. Most recently she was in marketing at St. Mary Lodge and Resort in Glacier National Park (St. Mary, Montana).

“We couldn’t be happier to have Lauren playing a role she is so well suited for at Meriwether Ranch,” said developer Dave Ellingson. “We’ve long needed on on-site presence to provide the Southwest Montana real estate community with ongoing support. Lauren will help introduce our little piece of heaven to those who truly want to own the experience of living in the pristine Big Hole River Valley.”

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.

Meriwether Ranch was recently chosen by DIY Network as the site for its premier show, featuring the build out of The Sportsmen’s Lodge, featuring Jeff Foxworthy. The show will be seen on the DIY Network during the 2009 and 2010 Calendar season.

Lauren Ellingson makes her home in Bozeman, Montana.

For More Information, Media Contact Georgi Bohrod at 619-255-1661
Meriwether Ranch Contact Emilie Ellingson at 402-420-3230