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Strategic Hotels & Resorts, Inc., has appointed Raymond L. “Rip” Gellein, Jr. and Eugene F. Reilly as independent members of the Board of Directors. With the appointment of Mssrs. Gellein and Reilly, the Company’s Board of Directors has nine members.

“We are very pleased to announce the appointment of Rip and Gene to our Board, continuing the process we began last December to evaluate the composition of our Board and align it in the best interest of our shareholders,” said William Prezant, chairman of the Company’s Board of Directors. “The skill-sets and experience Rip and Gene bring complement and broaden our current Board. Their expertise will be instrumental in helping us navigate in this challenging economic environment.”

Raymond L. “Rip” Gellein, Jr., was President, Global Development Group of Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc. prior to his resignation in March of 2008. Mr. Gellein had overall management responsibility for the full range of Starwood’s global real estate-related functions.

Prior to his position as President, Global Development Group, Mr. Gellein served as Chairman and CEO of Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., the vacation ownership division of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. He was a Director of Starwood Vacation Ownership Inc. from 1999 to 2008.

Mr. Gellein was formerly Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Vistana, Inc.; a public vacation ownership company acquired by Starwood in 1999.

Mr. Gellein holds an MBA in Finance, Accounting and Marketing from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, as well as a Bachelor of Arts from Denison University.

Mr. Reilly is President, the Americas for AMB Property Corporation and is responsible for AMB’s business in the United States, Canada and Latin America. Mr. Reilly joined AMB in 2003 and has 26 years of experience in the development, acquisition, disposition, financing and leasing of industrial properties throughout the Americas.

Prior to joining AMB, he was Chief Investment Officer of Cabot Properties, Inc., a private equity industrial real estate firm in which he was a founding partner and member of its Investment Committee and Board of Directors.

Mr. Reilly served with Cabot and its predecessor companies, including the NYSE-traded Cabot Industrial Trust, for 11 years. He has served on the Board of Directors of Grupo Accion, S.A. de C.V., a leading development company in Mexico.

Mr. Reilly holds an A.B. in Economics from Harvard College.

About the Company
Strategic Hotels & Resorts, Inc. is a real estate investment trust (REIT) which owns and provides value-enhancing asset management of high-end hotels and resorts in the United States, Mexico and Europe. The company currently has ownership interests in 19 properties with an aggregate of 8,358 rooms. For a list of current properties and for further information, please visit the company’s website at http://www.strategichotels.com.

InnSeason Resorts®, creators of the Northeast Experience® and leading providers of resort vacation and ownership opportunities, recently announced that Bluegreen Corporation based in Boca Raton, Florida has contracted to manage the sales, marketing and operations of InnSeason Resort South Mountain, located in Lincoln, NH.

Bluegreen Corporation, a leading provider of Colorful Places to Live and Play, recently announced new agreements with resorts in Williamsburg, VA; Dennis Port, MA; Nassau, Bahamas and InnSeason Resorts South Mountain in Lincoln. These agreements add approximately 180 units of resort inventory and the opportunity for additional development.

InnSeason’s Chief Financial Officer, Scott MacGregor says- “Bluegreen wanted a presence in New Hampshire and our South Mountain Resort was a perfect fit. It affords them the opportunity to step into an established, successful resort and to enhance their portfolio of over 45 owned or managed resorts. For us, the timing was ideal. It allows us to expand in other areas of New England, so we can offer alternate destinations to members of the InnSeason Vacation Club.”

InnSeason Resorts™ was created as a regional brand of family-oriented resorts that combine the development and operations expertise of Dennis M. Ducharme, RRP, president; and the marketing resources of Curran Management Services (CMS®), and its founder, William E. (Billy) Curran, chief executive officer.
InnSeason Resorts®, include: InnSeason Resorts Pollard Brook, Lincoln (NH); InnSeason Resorts The Falls at Ogunquit (ME); InnSeason Resorts HarborWalk, InnSeason Resorts Captains Quarters, InnSeason Resorts Surfside, Falmouth (MA), and Mountainview Resort in Jackman, (ME).

InnSeason Resorts®, delivers “best-in-class” management, advisory and marketing services to resorts and developers nation-wide. For more information, visit www.InnSeason.com.

Sell My Timeshare NOW, a global leader in the online advertising and marketing of timeshare resales, is expanding its senior management team with the addition of Chris Ownby as Chief Technology Officer. Ownby’s responsibilities will include managing Sell My Timeshare NOW’s IT department and extensive website improvement, development and interface projects.

Chris Ownby comes to the Dover, NH-based timeshare resale and timeshare rental advertising company from Sapling Systems, where he was the CTO and the Vice President of Product Development. Prior to joining Sapling Systems, Chris Ownby managed the development of Harcourt Assessment’s online platform, which provided formative and summative testing for the United States’ K through 12 education system. He is the past Director of Application Development at CreditReport.com, the market leader in providing B2C and B2B online, highly secure credit services and was a founder of Trapdoor Net Systems, an internet software development company that was successfully acquired in 2002.

Sell My Timeshare NOW CEO Jason Tremblay says, “We are pleased to have Chris lead our talented IT team. He has more than 20 years’ experience in the software development industry and his skill in building and managing both small and large technical teams and architecting large service-oriented enterprise systems is going to help us take Sell My Timeshare NOW to higher levels of performance and service. Our goal is to truly differentiate our company from others in our industry; Chris will play an important role in helping us achieve that goal as we enhance and improve the functionality of our website.”

Ownby, who holds a BA from California State University at Fullerton, has written and lectured on the future of software, the software industry, and on the role of the internet. He is currently working on a book about how to run a successful software business.

About: SellMyTimeshareNOW.com provides internet advertising and marketing solutions for timeshare owners seeking to sell timeshare or rent timeshare, while providing an extensive inventory of timeshare resales and timeshare rentals for the secondary market. For the second consecutive year, Sell My Timeshare NOW has made the prestigious Inc. 5000 List, ranking 21 among the top 100 privately held US real estate companies.

Interval International, a leading global provider of vacation services and an operating segment of Interval Leisure Group (Nasdaq: IILG), announced the addition of West Sands Phuket Beach Club to its vacation exchange network. The resort seamlessly blends state-of-the art development with a commitment to green building practices and consequently was honoured with the prestigious Green Development Award in 2007 and 2008 at the Thailand Property Awards.

Tucked into 48 lush acres with its own 500 yards of private beachfront, the propertyis situated on Mai Khao Beach on Phuket’s favoured west coast. The studio, one-, and two-bedroom units range from 92 to 167 square meters (990 to 1,798 square feet) and the three-bedroom units measure 335 square meters (3,605 square feet). The residences have been designed to have minimal impact on the environment and all feature European-style kitchens and bathrooms, as well as balconies with views of the pool, gardens, or the Andaman Sea.

“We are very pleased to have added West Sands Phuket Beach Club to our exchange network,” said Joe Hickman, Interval International’s Asia Pacific executive director. “Along with its high design standards, the eco-friendly development will contribute to preserving the environment and to more enjoyable and economic living.”

Mai Khao, which is part of the Sirinat National Park, is home to a golden sand beach, which stretches for 10 miles along the Andaman Sea and is the longest beach in Phuket. Activities in and around the area include water sports, sailing, diving and fishing and further inland activities include elephant riding, trekking, golf, and horseback riding.

Owners and guests also will have access to West Sands Water World, one of the largest water parks in Asia with seven themed “worlds” — ranging from an Inca Village to the
North Pole — and includes a lazy river, wave pool, and waterslide complex. Additional
facilities include a fitness centre, cooking school, PADI National Geographic Dive Centre, freeform swimming pool, tennis and squash courts, and spa.

“Phuket is well established as a premier vacation destination and West Sands matches its natural beauty with all of the modern amenities essential to enjoying life to the fullest,” said Barry King, project director of West Sands Vacation Club. “Choosing Interval as a partner matches its global experience in the field of vacation services with our local market and product knowledge. We are delighted that West Sands will be part of Interval’s network of quality vacation resorts.”

About Interval International
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 33 years. Today, Interval has a network of approximately 2,500 resorts in more than 75 countries and offers its resort clients and about 2 million member families high-quality products and programs through offices in 26 cities in 16 countries.Interval is an operating segment of Interval Leisure Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: IILG), a leading global provider of membership and leisure services to the vacation industry.

The property management division of Global Connections, Inc. (GCI) has recently promoted Emily Ceruzzi to General Manager of Sea Shells Beach Club in Daytona Beach, Florida.

An eight-year veteran with Global Connections, Ceruzzi previously served as assistant general manager at the same resort. As assistant to the Regional Director of Operations, she played a significant role in the revamping of the company’s property management offices in Myrtle Beach, S.C. and Orlando, Florida. Previously, she was manager of the Global Southeast Florida member fulfillment office for the nationally respected travel club company.

Owned by Global Connections, the 38-unit Sea Shells Beach Resort is located directly on Daytona Beach. As General Manager, Ceruzzi leads 15 resort employees in the day-to-day operation of the property with four unit sizes. She also handles marketing for resort rentals, oversees the centralized ordering for several Global properties, supervises four reservation agents and assists GCI travel club members with questions.
Before joining GCI, Ceruzzi spent nearly a decade with insurance companies and government agencies, working as a licensed workers’ compensation adjuster and human resources specialist. She holds a B.S. degree from the University of Central Florida, is a paralegal and serves on the Sponsorship Committee of the Cooperative Association of Resort Exchangers (C.A.R.E.).

Added Catherine Wunder, VP of Operations for Global Connections, “When it was time to select a new resort manager for Sea Shells Beach Club, we recognized that Emily’s past experience with our company made her the ideal candidate for the job. Her can-do attitude, attention to detail, and familiarity with the resort made for an easy and seamless transition.”

Global Connections has developed and owns many of its properties with resorts currently located throughout the State of Florida, and in California, Tennessee and Colorado. The company also owns multiple resort condominium units in Florida, Hawaii, Missouri, Nevada, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. Global Connections’ 28 sales centers are located in 20 states and are distributors of its travel club product, Global Discovery Vacations (GDV), which offers Star Credits, similar to timeshare’s points-based programs, designed to allow members to select programs to fit their lifestyle and budget.

Based on a controlled study recently completed by SHELL VACATIONS in Hawaii, the WORLDtouch8.1 sales presentation system was directly responsible for raising VPG more than 40% and reducing cancellations 59%!

The WORLDtouch8.1 system can now be installed immediately for a very small commission based only on sales closed and a minimal setup fee. This means developers small and large can start using this powerfull tool right now at extremely low cost and risk. Since pricing has been changed to this new model, the response has been astounding…with new resort companies signing on every week.

After installing the WORLDtouch sales presentation system on 40 tables, David Stroeve from Grand Timber Lodge and Grand Lodge On Peak7 in Breckenridge, Colorado says,  “We all have seen dynamic changes within our industry…however we have continued to outperform, posting our best June and second best July in company history! The WORLDtouch system has become an essential component of every presentation, enabling our sales associates to clearly demonstrate our product strengths and company credentials, and I would highly recommend use of this 21st Century technology to any sales organization.”

After installing the WORLDtouch system on 50 sales tables, Don “Junior” Eastvold from Exotic Travel Club in Riviera Maya, Mexico says, ”Everyone is using the WORLDtouch system, and the closing percentage remains high. Even with the down-turn of the economy and the slow down of tours, we are still matching or beating last year’s sales production, with fewer tours, and I assign most of this success to the addition of WORLDtouch. It is working out very well for us.”

Year of the Customer Initiative Gets Boost from Cloobeck’s ‘The Meaning of Yes(SM)’

Diamond Resorts International® (DRI), a global leader in the vacation holiday ownership industry, sets itself apart during this economy with its company-wide commitment to provide customers with service excellence through its corporate ideology of ‘The Meaning of Yes(SM).’

Stephen J. Cloobeck, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, today announced “While other hospitality and travel companies are abiding by, what some in these industries refer to as, ‘a post 9-11, no waivers, no favors’ philosophy, DRI continues to strengthen its commitment to providing customers with service excellence through ‘The Meaning of Yes.’ We continue to position DRI apart from our competitors in two very different, but most important, functional aspects by first bringing the component of hospitality to the timeshare industry and secondly by servicing our customers by saying yes.”

Recognizing that building lasting customer relationships is significant to the short-term growth and long-term health of Diamond Resorts International®, Cloobeck developed The Meaning of Yes as a fundamental ideology for the company’s workforce.

According to Cloobeck’s The Meaning of Yes – Any successful business builds customer value through trust-based products and purposeful relationship management and at DRI, we continue to deliver on our promise of growth for THE Club® product through expanded member benefits and resort affiliations. Specifically, our customers continue to ask for more exchange and points-redemption opportunities as well as more resort locations and we continue to steadily build the most sought-after vacation ownership and holiday membership product available in the marketplace today. “Quite simply,” implores Cloobeck, “we continue to say yes to our customers.”

“As a company,” continues Cloobeck, “we share mutual interest with our customers in each other’s success – our customers want us to succeed and we in turn want them to trust in us to deliver on our promise to them. In effect, we are collectively saying yes to each other.”

As hotels and other timeshare companies limit customer benefits and, in effect, shorten the quality of the stay, DRI is bridging communication and service gaps between resorts, customers and corporate. Launching educational enrichment seminars at resort locations in the UK and in the States, DRI invites members to half-day seminars to learn more about the product and the company so that both can better serve each other. Members get updates on new tools available for them to further enjoy their vacation lifestyle product and the company benefits by receiving instant feedback about what they are doing right and what needs improvement.

Annually, nearly 1.4 million owners, members and guests enjoy the simplicity, choice and comfort Diamond Resorts International® offers through its branded hospitality experience. Says Cloobeck, “At DRI, it doesn’t make a difference what the customer asks; the answer is still yes. We work hand-in-hand with all of our divisions to create a positive customer experience. We collectively deliver the meaning of yes, and it starts with the chairman of the company. The meaning of yes is what defines our success.”

Diamond Resorts International®, with global headquarters in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest vacation ownership companies in the world with more than 160 branded and affiliated resorts and over 24,000 guest beds in 26 countries with destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to more than 400,000 owners and members through the branded hospitality 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. To learn more, visit www.DiamondResorts.com.

While timeshare resales prices have still not recovered from their high in 2007 they show signs of recovery. Sales data from closed timeshare sales on the secondary market revealed a 4% increase in prices from 2008.

Signs of economic recovery are often seen first in the purchase of luxury items. A recent study by Stroman Realty, Inc of timeshare resales prices for 2009 is showing signs of bouncing back from a decline in prices from 2008. Sales data from closed timeshare sales on the secondary market revealed a 4% increase in prices from 2008. While timeshare resales prices have still not recovered from their high in 2007 they show signs of recovery. “Prices are on the rebound from the worldwide economic crisis that was upon us for the last 18 months” said Wayne Stroman, the broker and president of Stroman Realty. He went on to explain the past five years of sales data: The year to date or first seven months worldwide timeshare average sales price numbers for each of the last five years from 2005 through 2009 are as follows:

2005     $7,905.38
2006     $7,743.03
2007     $9,962.75
2008     $8,802.40
2009     $9,189.80

For those who have been thinking of selling their timeshare, this may be an indication that it is a good time to sell. “Timeshare owners that bought from the developer are not getting 100% of the original sales price. If they bought a resale timeshare they probably still have their purchase equity.” He said. So far in 2009 the highest priced timeshare property sold was Marriott’s Mountainside in Park City Utah for $54,900. The state with the largest number of timeshare sales was California. Dominating the California timeshare resales list were Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas, Marriott’s Desert Springs Villas, Four Seasons Aviara, and Marriott’s Shadow Ridge.

About Stroman Realty, Inc.:
Stroman Realty, Inc. is a full service real estate brokerage company located in a 30,000 sq. ft. office complex on Lake Conroe, just north of Houston, Texas. Stroman Realty is the world’s largest Resort Timeshare Resale Broker and the acknowledged leader in the timeshare resales marketplace. Their advertising reaches thousands of people daily with an interest in timeshare resales, timeshare sales, and vacation rentals. Stroman’s international timeshare resales and timeshare rental operations offer timeshare buyers and vacation renters a portfolio of timeshare resales, timeshare rentals and camping memberships worldwide. The company has been under original management since 1979.

About Wayne Stroman:
Wayne Stroman currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Texas Association of REALTORS® (TAR) (2000-2010), Regional Vice President Region 14 (2008-2010); the Board of Directors for the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR) (1999-2001 and 2007-2009) and HAR Vice Chair 2009. In addition, Mr. Stroman is active with the Houston REALTOR® Information Service, Inc. (HRIS) and served on their Board of Directors (2002-2006). He was the HRIS Secretary-Treasurer (2002) and Vice Chair (2003). He also sits on the Board of Directors for the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) (2003 & 2008-2009). NAR has over 1.1 million members and HAR is one of two of the largest local REALTOR® organizations in the nation along with Long Island, New York.

He was Chairman of the HAR International Council (2005-2006) and the HAR Technology Task Force for (2004). He was past Chairman of the HAR MLS Advisory Group (2003); and past Chairman of the HAR Statistical Information Subcommittee (1997). He also served on the MLS Advisory Group Committee (1990-94 & 1997-2008); and the Y2K Task Force (1998-2000).

Mr. Stroman served on the TAR Issues Mobilization Committee (2005-2007); TAR Member Benefits Task Force (2005-2009), Committee Chair (2006); and was on the TAR International Task Force (2003); International Committee (2007-2009) the TAR Condominium Committee (1985); Technology Committee (2008-2009); Omega Tau Rho Fraternity Achievement Award 2004.

He was also a member of the National Association of REALTORS® Multiple Listing Service Issues and Policies Committee (2003-2005); the past Chairman of the NAR Resort Real Estate Forum (2003); and a member of the Resort and Second Home Real Estate Committee (2003 and 2006-2007); International Operations Committee (2008-2009); and CIPS Advisory Group (2007-2008).

Jade Resort Residences & Beach Club has announced Agnelo Fernandes as president. Fernandes, a hospitality industry veteran with over 20 years of operational, finance and brand marketing experience, joins to take on responsibility of developing the new lifestyle development brand and overseeing its introduction through an upscale resort and residential project underway in Manuel Antonio on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast. Beyond Costa Rica, he will also be involved in extending the Jade brand to other international projects.

Adjacent to Manuel Antonio National Park to one side and overlooking the Pacific Ocean to the other, Jade Resort Residences & Beach Club’s premier property will feature 240 designer resort-style residences as well as world-class hospitality services and resident and guest amenities. The property is situated five miles from Quepos, an international destination for sport fishing.

As president of Jade Resort Residences & Beach Club, Fernandes will oversee all operations, finance, sales and marketing of the brand and its projects. The opening of the first property in January 2011 marks his 13th resort-hotel launch.

Fernandes joins Jade from Canyon Ranch Miami Beach where he was part of a leadership team tasked with the pre-strategy and opening of the first Canyon Ranch Living and hotel concept. He led its integrated marketing including for an all-suite high-end hotel, 70,000 square feet wellness center, gourmet nutrition and beverage services, and retail. He also was instrumental in the successful marketing and sales of residences and hotel condominiums.

Fernandes was a former director of sales and marketing for Sonesta Hotel and Suites. He has held leadership roles with Ocean Point Resort and Spa in Sunny Isles Beach and Rex Resorts in the Caribbean. For Rex Resorts, he led the re-launch of the brand in the Americas, repositioning seven resorts and opening two new resorts.

Recognized with several industry accolades, Fernandes began his career with Starwood where he held various training and management positions. Among his accomplishments include being awarded Caribbean Hotel Association Sales Person of the Year 1995.

“My partners and I are thrilled to have Agnelo Fernandes join our team for his caliber of talent and the depth of experience he brings to build our brand and oversee the first development of its kind under that brand,” said lead developer Dan Dykgraaf. “Beyond his industry experience, we value his business acumen and immense passion for unique projects such as ours that are defined by their brand and exotic locations. We’re excited for what he brings to the launch of the first Jade project in Costa Rica and to future growth in other international destinations.”

Jade Resort Residences & Beach Club Costa Rica will include: 190 condo-style designer residences within a hotel tower; 50 individual high-end residences with six penthouses; an exclusive beach club with lagoon pool, cabanas and a lazy river (the only one in the region); a luxurious resort pool with 180-degree Pacific Ocean views, private cabanas and poolside services; a lobby featuring a magnificent nine-story atrium and a 40-foot cascading waterfall; Jade Spa, Salon and Fitness Center; an upscale Latin-European restaurant; a 6,000-square-foot meeting facility; and an array of concierge and guest services. Area activities include golf, white water rafting, kayaking, treetop zip-lining, mountain biking, horseback riding, water sports and other beachside recreation.

Jade’s Costa Rica project is a branded Wyndham Hotels and Resorts property and is affiliated with The Registry Collection Exchange Program, the largest luxury exchange program offered by Group RCI, a leader in vacation exchange, European leader in vacation rentals, and one of the Wyndham Worldwide family of brands.

About Jade Resort Residences & Beach Club
Jade Resort Residences & Beach Club is an upscale residential and resort development underway in Manuel Antonio on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast. Situated adjacent to famed Manuel Antonio National Park, Jade will include: 190 one- and two-bedroom condo-style designer residences; 50 individual high-end designer residences with six penthouses; world class hotel and concierge services; a private oceanfront beach club with a 180-degree-view pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean; a nine-story atrium with 40-foot cascading waterfall; Jade Salon, Spa and Fitness with a 2,000-square-foot health and fitness center; an upscale Latin-European restaurant; 6,000 square feet of meeting space; on-site nature trails; and, various other recreational activities inspired by the natural landscape and regional culture. For more information, visit www.jademanuelantonio.com.

Quintess, The Leading Residences of the World (LRW)(quintess.com) issued its mid-year update to members, highlighting that building on its financial strength, it now has more than 500 members and continues to grow, add homes, and be a pioneer in the destination club industry.

Despite the overall economic climate and some contraction in the destination club industry, Quintess, LRW grew significantly in the first half of 2009. Coming into the year, Quintess, LRW had a strong financial foundation in place with a multi-year contractual equity commitment of $210 million through 2016, along with the Club’s revised annual dues and fees structure that was approved by an overwhelming majority vote of membership in Q4, 2008. This financial structure allows the Club to sustain itself without requiring the capital from new membership sales. Quintess, LRW offers best-in-class home quality and home availability, and the most flexible use policies in the industry. Combined with the Club’s financial strength, this has resulted in nearly 70 new memberships and upgrades year to date, with sales accelerating in recent months. Quintess, LRW now offers deferred payment pricing starting at just 25% of total payments paid upfront and a conversion membership structure for new members who are leaving other clubs.

“Financial strength during this challenging economic environment has allowed us to enhance our position as the leading destination club in availability, home quality and service,” said Greg Eure, President of Quintess, LRW.

This summer the Club has announced real estate growth within its portfolio while some other destination clubs continue to draw back. In June, Quintess, LRW opened for reservation its second home in La Quinta, California, a prime leisure destination geared toward golf. In July, the Club added two homes in Aspen, Colorado at Aspen Highlands, offering its members access to ski amenities and privileges at the adjacent Ritz-Carlton resort. Now, with four homes in Aspen, Quintess, LRW can offer an enclave environment providing members with outstanding services and the choice of two slope-side properties, a mountain house retreat or a central downtown location.

Quintess, LRW is optimistic about the future of the destination club industry as interest in alternatives to second home ownership is growing. Quintess, LRW’s parent, Club Holdings, LLC, is in advanced stages of a new club development with a globally-recognized partner. With this development, Quintess, LRW expects to be able to make available to its members the ultimate level of access to the most comprehensive leisure experiences at the most exclusive resort destinations around the world.

About Quintess, The Leading Residences of the World (quintess.com)
Quintess, The Leading Residences of the World is a luxury destination club that creates highly personalized vacation experiences for its members. Quintess, LRW provides its members with access to 80+ multimillion-dollar residences and experiences in 40+ international resort and city destinations, including Aspen, Los Cabos, Florence, Hawaii, Jackson Hole, London, Napa Valley, New York City, Paris and Tuscany, among countless others. As part of Quintess, LRW’s strategic relationship with The Leading Hotels of the World, Ltd., the club now offers Q Leading Experiences at select member hotels around the globe. With 500+ members, the company remains committed to financial transparency and full disclosure and continues the practice of providing its members with third party audited financial statements. For more information about Quintess, LRW please call 800.550.0324 or visit quintess.com.

The Residence Club on Mission Beach Offers Ideally Located, Sensible Second Home Ownership

Economist Lawrence Yum reported that San Diego leads the nation in real estate recovery during his keynote address at the San Diego Association of Realtors summit on August 18. This is evidenced by rising home prices and sales coupled with a limited housing inventory due to a decline in new construction. Market conditions make this an ideal time for the debut of The Residence Club on Mission Beach, Southern California’s only beachfront residence club.

Boasting sweeping ocean views, resort-style services, and contemporary design, The Residence Club on Mission Beach is a stylish enclave of ten two-bedroom residences. Two residence types are offered – the Beach Tier residences on the ground floor and Top Tier residences above. Both reveal spectacular water views through floor to ceiling windows. The Club will have eight owners per residence. Limited-time, introductory pricing is $265,000 for Beach Tier and $325,000 for Top Tier. Similar whole ownership real estate in Mission Beach is priced up to $2 million.

Developer Ken Cornell, principal of Ocean Pacific Companies, is encouraged by the renewed optimism consumers are beginning to demonstrate. “The Residence Club on Mission Beach opened just over a month ago, and we’re receiving a very enthusiastic response,” he says. “San Diego visitors are excited by this unique opportunity to own a luxury beachfront residence at a price that they’re unlikely to ever see again.”

All residences are fully furnished and feature two bedrooms, three bathrooms, patios, living rooms, and gourmet kitchens. The Club offers cabanas, lounge chairs, and beach service to owners and their guests. Brand new cruiser bicycles and boogie boards are provided for family recreation. Rare for Mission Beach, there is complimentary underground parking on site. The Club staff provides concierge and pre-arrival grocery shopping service, security, housekeeping, and all maintenance, allowing families to completely enjoy every vacation moment.

Owners may vacation at The Residence Club on Mission Beach as often as they wish, subject only to generous and flexible reservation policies. The Club has been selected to participate in The Elite Alliance℠ which offers vacation exchange opportunities within a prestigious group of residence clubs in locations such as Deer Valley, UT; La Quinta, CA; Sedona, AZ; Jackson Hole, WY; and Bermuda.

Ocean Pacific Companies has engaged DCP International℠, pioneers of the residence club industry, to consult with them in the creation of The Residence Club on Mission Beach. DCP introduced the world’s first private residence club in Deer Valley, Utah and has since consulted with developers on dozens of residence clubs in beach, golf, ski, and urban locations such as New York City, Florida, Colorado, Italy, Bermuda, and Mexico. The Club is managed by DCM International, the world’s largest and most experienced residence club management company.

Mission Beach is a popular destination for residents of the Pacific Northwest, Midwest, and desert states who come for the beach recreation, superb climate, and proximity to downtown San Diego’s dynamic cultural offerings. Local family attractions include SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND, and Wild Animal Park. Sports fans can easily attend Chargers and Padres games.

San Diego International Airport (SAN) offers non-stop service to 43 cities, including Chicago, IL; Las Vegas, NV; Phoenix, AZ; Portland, OR; San Francisco, CA; Seattle, WA; and Vancouver, BC.

W Santiago and The Residences at W Santiago Mark the Latest Opening in W Hotels’ Continued Global Expansion, More Than Doubling Its Footprint by 2011

W Hotels Worldwide, the hotel category buster and leading industry innovator, today unveils its first ever hotel in South America, W Santiago and The Residences at W Santiago. The W brand’s 33rd hotel, W Santiago is the cornerstone of a larger, mixed-use complex, Isidora 3000, which includes a convention center, boutique office space, and high-end retail shops in addition to the W Hotel and W-branded residences. Developed by the Territoria Group, W Santiago is located in the heart of the fashionable El Golf district of the Chilean capital city and surrounded by the magnificent peaks of the Andes.

For W Santiago, renowned New York designer Tony Chi partnered with native Chilean designer Sergio Echeverria and his studio Echeverria Edwards & CIA to create cutting edge interiors for the hotel and residences that are a cool, contemporary take on the varied Chilean landscape. Their interior design approach sets the stage for W’s signature programming, including Whiskey Blue, an amped-up hotspot on the fourth floor of the hotel, Red2 One, a breathtaking rooftop bar, and W Lounge (W’s take on the traditional hotel lobby), all from famed nightlife entrepreneurs Rande and Scott Gerber of the Gerber Group; Osaka, the Zen-inspired restaurant featuring Peruvian-Asian cuisine by Chef Ciro Watanabe; NoSo and Terraza, two Modern French restaurants by renowned chef Jean-Paul Bondoux; an intimate Tea Library, managed by the talented French chef Sebastien Fontes; a lively Wine Bar; and W Hotels The Store, W’s twist on the hotel gift shop. In addition, hotel guests have access to the adjacent O2 Balance & Wellness Club, which offers 2,000 square meters of high-end equipment for physical training and spa treatment rooms.

“W Santiago marks a milestone for the W brand in South America as well as in our continued global expansion into the world’s most vibrant destinations,” said Eva Ziegler, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide and Le Méridien. “The hotel provides guests and locals alike with W’s unique signature programming set in a cool design environment that gives a contemporary and playful nod to the breathtaking Chilean landscape and culture.”

“We’re delighted to celebrate the grand opening of this world-class hotel and residences, which now stands as an iconic landmark in this city” said Francisco Rencoret, CEO of Territoria. “We’ve created an exceptional lifestyle destination. Isidora 3000 was designed to bring the best in each category offices, retail, residences, hotel- through experiences, design and services for the 21st century.”

“We are excited to strengthen our presence in Chile as we unveil the new W Santiago, a great addition to our existing Starwood portfolio,” said Osvaldo Librizzi, President of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Latin America. “W is a worldwide brand already present in many important cities around the globe. We chose Santiago because of the need for outstanding hotels and for the importance Santiago has as a financial and cultural center in South America.”

Contemporary Design Rooted in Chilean Culture
Beginning with a private garden entrance flanked by 50-foot trees cultivated from southern Chile, the design of W Santiago honors the country’s cultural traditions while incorporating the modern design elements for which the W brand is known. Interior designer Tony Chi was inspired by the colors, textures and sounds of Chile, elements that can be seen, felt and heard throughout the hotel. The color palette of all public spaces and guestrooms includes oranges, blues, and other vibrant shades that are found in the mountains and deserts of South America, and many of the hotel’s design elements beckon to be touched, such as the sheepskin walls used in the W lounge. To craft and execute this conceptual design throughout the building, Chi worked in collaboration with the international company Handel Architects of the United States, the Brazilian landscape designer Gilberto Elkis, and renowned Chilean designer Sergio Echeverria. Together, they went to great lengths to use natural design materials found in or inspired by South America, including copper (Chile’s biggest export), sheepskin, Brazilian woods, and contemporary Indian tapestries. In using these natural elements, this team of designers has intended for every guest’s experience at W Santiago to be unique, as the natural materials will change with time, aging beautifully, and constantly evolving the look and feel of the hotel.

“When designing, you have to start with the location and its people, and what I noticed here is that friends and family congregate frequently and in large groups,” said Tony Chi. “Chilean culture is about crossing generations and bridging differences, and as a collective sentiment, it is what ultimately inspired W Santiago.”

Mix, Mingle and Sip in Style at W Santiago
W Santiago features an assorted mix of modern lounges, bars, and restaurants in which W’s jet set guests and Santiago’s fashionable locals can mix and mingle. Whiskey Blue, which marks the South American debut of nightlife entrepreneurs Rande and Scott Gerber, features a modern bar with leather, felt and wood paneling and floor-to-ceiling mirrors. Two additional venues by the Gerber Group, the signature W lounge and Red2 One, the 21st floor rooftop bar, offer guests, residents and locals a menu of sophisticated cocktails and light fare in distinctively designed spaces.

Restaurants at W Santiago include NoSo and Terraza, where famed chef Jean-Paul Bondoux puts his own unique spin on modern French cuisine, and Osaka restaurant, featuring an innovative fusion of Asian and Peruvian flavors by renowned chef Ciro Watanabe. At Osaka, typical Peruvian ingredients are combined with Oriental cooking techniques, resulting in innovative dishes, such as Ceviche Osaka, Tai Scallops, Teriyaki Balsamic Sirloin, and Nippon Confit Duck. NoSo, a more formal dining experience, features a contemporary twist on French classics such as foie gras and escargot as well as fresh Chilean seafood. NoSo features chocolate-colored walls, a wine cave, marble seafood display, and an impressive chef’s table, where the chef prepares the freshest ingredients from the local market. Adjacent to NoSo, a private dining room seats up to 25 people, with blue glass chandeliers hanging above massive tables surrounded by plush red chairs. With a brasserie-style concept, Terraza is a more casual restaurant with quick and agile service, ideal for local executives or relaxed outdoor dining. A signature Tea Library and a modern Wine Bar round out the scene at W Santiago.

Escape the Hustle and Bustle of Chile’s Dynamic Capital City
W Santiago features 196 stylish guestrooms, including 20 suites, 16 Cool Corner Rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, three WOW suites, and the signature Extreme WOW Suite (W Hotels’ reinterpretation of the Presidential Suite), offering stunning views of Santiago and the Andes Mountains. Rooms and suites, which serve as a personal escape for guests, feature black and white images of Chile, modern and stylish furniture, high ceilings, and, in many cases, spacious terraces with incredible views. All guestrooms feature W beds with goose down duvets and 350 thread-count sheets, flat-screen LCD TVs, broadband Wi-Fi Internet, docking stations for MP3 players, and a fully stocked Munchie Box (W Hotels’ take on of the traditional hotel mini bar).

W Santiago is also home to South America’s first W Hotels The Store, a WIRED 24-hour business center, and the heated WET® rooftop pool on the 21st floor, which offers unparalleled views of the city and mountains. The perfect backdrop for creative business meetings or unforgettable celebrations, W Santiago also boasts more than 1,800 square meters of ultra-modern meeting and event space, with 10 fully equipped meeting rooms featuring new generation technologies. The hotel offers a contemporary Great Room (W’s version of a ballroom), which can seat up to 1,400 guests.

Providing the ultimate in urban living, W Santiago includes 46 W-branded residences, in sizes ranging from 65 to 325 square meters with a contemporary design and exclusive access to the hotel’s unique amenities and services. All residences feature the largest terraces in Santiago, spacious bedrooms and living spaces, and state-of-the art appliances. In addition, residents have access to a private owners’ lounge, private wine cellar and tasting room, an infinity pool on the 21st floor, and a helipad. Residences are still available and can be purchased by contacting the sales center at (56-2) 947-2032 or through the website www.santiagoresidences.com. In addition, W Santiago offers W’s signature Whatever/Whenever® service promise, providing both guests and residents alike with whatever they want – from a private plane to the Patagonia to a bottle of vintage wine – whenever they want it, as long as it’s legal!

W Santiago is located at Isidora Goyenechea 3000, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile. For more information or to book, please visit www.whotels.com/santiago.

About W Hotels Worldwide®
W Hotels is an innovative contemporary lifestyle brand and the hotel category buster with 33 properties in the most vibrant destinations around the world. Inspiring, iconic, innovative and influential, W Hotels provides the ultimate in insider access to a world of “Wow.” Each hotel offers a unique mix of innovative design and passions around fashion, music, entertainment, design, architecture, pop culture, and everything in between. W Hotels are unique and individual expressions of modern living, reflected in the brand’s sensibility to a holistic lifestyle experience with cutting-edge design, contemporary restaurant concepts, glamorous nightlife experiences, and signature spas. With 10 years of proven success, W Hotels will triple its footprint by 2011. In North America and Latin America, W Hotels have been announced in Austin, Boston, Hollywood, Huntington Beach, and Downtown New York. In Europe, W Hotels have been announced in Athens, Barcelona, London, Manchester, Milan, Paris and St. Petersburg. In Asia, W has announced properties in Bangkok, Guangzhou, Macao-Studio City, Shanghai and Yokohama. In Africa and the Middle East, W has announced properties in Marrakech, Amman, and Dubai. W has plans to open W Retreats in Bali, Koh Samui, Vieques Island and Verbier, the latter of which will serve as W Hotels’ first ski retreat. For more information, visit www.whotels.com.

About The Territoria Group
A real estate developer, Territoria . was founded in 2004 and is based out of Santiago, Chile. Territoria distinguishes itself through the unique imprint it leaves on each project, characterized by a new proposition for a certain style of living. They start from one idea, constructing spaces with innovation, creativity and design, with an open vision towards a new way of living. They currently have 70.000 square meters of completed works and approximately 162.000 square meters under construction. www.territoria.cl

About Tony Chi
Tony Chi distinguishes himself from other interior designers because of his temperament. He is a perfectionist; meticulous, unwavering and possessing an intensity that evokes emotion, never allowing indifference. His design transcends ephemeral curiosity entertained by the surface of things. He understands that design without functionality is hollow and functionality without people who care to utilize it defeats the purpose. In his own words, “any designer can create a dazzling body but I want to create spaces that have a chance at building a soul.” He doesn’t merely deliver aesthetics, he delivers an experience.

The Cyprus Investment Festival, held in Beirut, Lebanon was officially opened by his Excellency, Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus, Dr Kyriakos Kouros.

During his address he pointed out the strategic alliances currently available to investors in Cyprus and its market stability.

“The Cyprus investment Festival has launched this initiative and we are pleased to support this event”, he said.

The Cyprus Investment Festival organizers, World Class Group, a PR and communications consultancy unit based in Dubai, launched the Cyprus promotion to the Middle East with its first leg of the festival in Beirut.

The Cyprus Investment Festival will showcase the advantages of investing in Cyprus throughout the Middle East later in the fall of 2009.

Among the participating partners of the Cyprus Investment Festival are seasoned development groups in Cyprus, Iacovou Brothers Development and Pafilia, and other quality boutique developers.

The aim of the festival is to inform potential investors of new opportunities of foreign investment in Cyprus, in particular a new resolution in the counsel of minister’s decision to allow non-Europeans to apply for permanent residency status when purchasing a property in Cyprus under certain criteria. The organizers are promoting this as the new ‘Open Doors’ policy of Cyprus.

Organizers of the festival were impressed by the growing number of investors from the Middle East expressing interest in making substantial commitments in Cyprus. “Cyprus is the gateway to the EU for the region, and having the lowest corporate tax has also attracted many international companies to set up shop in the country,” said Mr. Michael J. Tolan, Ceo of World Class Group, organizers of the Cyprus Investment Festival.

Visitors from Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq and the UAE were in attendance to the Festival. Many of these investors showed high levels of interest in investing in Custom Villas and other income properties that enjoy a strong rental demand by vacationers who rent luxury villas by the week.

“ Now is the time to seize opportunities in Cyprus which enjoys a stable economy in spite of the global so called crisis” he added.

The Cyprus Investment Festival will be held in Beirut at the Phoenicia Hotel throughout the month of August. Investors were enlightened to new developments in Cyprus such as a new world class marina project in Paphos, destined to attract the jet set of the Mediterranean to Cyprus, several new golf courses including one in Larnaca and rumored talks with major theme parks groups which will add to the already growing tourist market.

“Many investors who have been perplexed by the world economy now view Cyprus as the darling safe haven of Europe”, said Tolan. The number of incentives that are available to major investors including grants from the EU attracts other investors. Fractional Ownership, introduced in Cyprus by World Class Group earlier this year, also got the attention of speculators who desire to acquire assets in Cyprus while having a lower exposure and a deeded slice of a superb vacation property.”

“On the upper tier of the scale, we have inquiries ranging from 500,000 to 10,000,000 Euro level investment in properties and joint ventures.”

Hundreds of visitors surveyed were interested in various areas of Cyprus, the Protaras and Famagusta areas were popular on speculation of reunification of the island, while Larnaca and Limassol remained front-runners, followed closely by Paphos and Polis, the new frontiers of buy to rent properties.

The Cyprus Investment Festival will tour Dubai, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, Singapore and Malaysia over the next few months’. George Mintis, Vice President of the Cyprus Tourism Organization, said “The Open Doors policy of Cyprus has opened a new gateway to the EU for many investors in the Middle East and around the world”.  “There are opportunities for any entrepreneur to secure safe and profitable investments in our country. Cyprus boasts the lowest corporate tax rates in the EU, and is attracting many multinational companies to relocate to the island of smiles,” added Mintis.

After nearly four years Perspective Magazine has now managed to acquire the previously unavailable PerspectiveMagazine.com

Perspective Magazine; the leading trade publication for the shared ownership industry globally has been in circulation since November 2005, residing at www.theperspectivemagazine.com, but finally after a long wait, parent company Perspective International Ltd have finalised negotiations to buy www.perspectivemagazine.com and have now taken ownership of this domain.

“It has been one of those things that has irritated me every day for four years…” says Paul Mattimoe, CEO of Perspective International Ltd, “…having to give out the magazine’s website with a ‘the’ in the front of it – so I am very pleased to have finally convinced the previous owners to sell the domain to us and look forward to establishing the magazine’s online component in its rightful place shortly.”

The new website will not be available for some weeks yet, but is expected to be released with even more enhanced features as the magazine gears up for the release of its annual advertising packages for 2010.
In the meantime, industry professionals can read all the latest news, press releases, interviews and articles about the fractional ownership, timeshare, and resort real estate industries at http://www.theperspectivemagazine.com

Perspective Magazine is available in high quality print and online, reaching a subscription of more than 20,400 industry professionals every month in addition to providing the most up to date news on a daily basis online.

For information about advertising and editorial opportunities visit http://www.perspectiverates.com

For the second year in a row, Sell My Timeshare NOW has made the prestigious Inc. 5000 List, which recognizes the fastest growing privately held companies in the US. The timeshare resale and timeshare rental advertising and marketing company ranked 21 nationally among the top 100 real estate companies on the list and 1599 out of the top 5000 companies to make the list across all industries.

Recognized worldwide, the Inc. 5000 List (Inc. Magazine) provides credible, third-party rankings of the top privately held companies in the US, both overall and as categorized by geographic area and by industry. Sell My Timeshare NOW, which is based in Dover NH and has an office in Orlando, FL, ranked 51 among the fastest growing Top 100 Businesses in the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH metro area and ranked 13 on the list of fastest growing companies in all categories in the state of New Hampshire.

In business less than six years, the timeshare resales advertising and marketing company began with a staff of three and today had more than 160 employees. As CEO Jason Tremblay explains, “Collectively, the companies on the Inc. 5000 list are responsible for creating more than 1 million jobs since their founding. Last year alone these companies realized $214 billion in aggregate revenue. It means a lot to us at Sell My Timeshare NOW to be part of this positive contribution to the US economy; to know that we are part of the solution.”

Sell My Timeshare NOW is a recognized global leader in the online marketing and advertising of timeshare resale and timeshare rental. The company has seen revenues triple between 2005 and 2008 (the period evaluated for this award) and has experienced a 200 percent growth rate, exceeding the median growth rate of 189.9 percent for other companies making the 2009 Inc. 5000 List.

Despite the challenging economy, companies making the Inc. 5000 List saw revenues increase by $29 billion collectively. Inc. Magazine describes the list as perhaps the best example of the impact private, fast-growing companies can have on the economy and the most comprehensive look at America’s independent-minded entrepreneurs.

About: SellMyTimeshareNOW.com provides internet advertising and marketing solutions for timeshare owners who seek to sell timeshare or rent timeshare.

The Luxury Exchange Program’s Members Now Have Access to More Resorts in Florida, North Africa and Greece

The Registry Collection® Exchange Program, the world’s largest luxury exchange program offered by Group RCI, the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and the European leader in vacation rentals and one of the Wyndham Worldwide family of brands (NYSE: WYN), today announced relationships with three luxury affiliates which will become part of The Registry Collection exchange program’s growing network.

The new resorts include Jimmy Johnson’s Fisherman’s Cove in the Florida Keys, The International Riviera in North Africa and Halcyon Hills Spa Resort and Marina in Greece.

Halcyon Hills Spa Resort

“We are extremely excited to welcome these extraordinary properties to The Registry Collection program,” said Gregg Anderson, global managing director, The Registry Collection program. “Each resort boasts incredible features that epitomize the vacation experiences we offer our more than 30,000 members through this elite global network.”

Fisherman’s Cove in the Florida Keys epitomizes the best of the Keys’ outdoor and entertainment opportunities including celebrated sunsets, world-class sport fishing, outstanding diving, a thriving art community, lively nightlife and delightful waterfront dining. This private residence club lavishes a total of only 48 owners with luxury at every turn. Guests will enjoy on-site amenities including an outdoor swimming pool and cabanas; private dock and boats for personal use of owners; rooftop terrace with a jetted tub; wet bar and sunbathing area; state-of-the-art fitness center; waterfront dining and room service; and an exceptional staff to handle all needs and requests.

The International Riviera in Tunisia, North Africa, is set to be completed in 2011 and will include 50 luxury waterfront villas. The concept for The International Riviera was created to be a fusion of European elegance and the 21st century pioneering spirit of Dubai. The five-star residential resort development will have at its heart a Las Vegas-style casino complex and a range of other upscale amenities, including golf, spa, marinas and retail.

Halcyon Hills Spa Resort and Marina on the Greek island of Samos will boast an array of luxury facilities including a 1,200 square-meter spa, a 35-berth private marina, two beaches, tennis courts and more when completed. The ethos of the resort combines luxury with the traditional Greek charm of Samos.

About The Registry Collection
The Registry Collection program is a global network comprising over 30,000 members and more than 130 affiliates on five continents. More than 160 properties are available through the program and are either accessible for exchange or under development. As the world’s largest luxury exchange program, The Registry Collection program provides members with access to an elite global network of the very finest vacation properties at some of the world’s premier destinations, as well as personal concierge services that are available 24 hours a day. From condo hotels and high-end fractional resorts to private residence clubs and fractional yachts, The Registry Collection program facilitates exchanges around the world and redefines the vacation experience for owners and developers. The Registry Collection program is offered by Group RCI, the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and the European leader in vacation rentals and one of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies. (NYSE: WYN) For additional information, visit the media center at www.grouprci.com.

For additional information on the services offered to developers and members by The Registry Collection program and how it can add potential value to leisure real estate projects, visit www.theregistrycollection.com.

The Wyndham Championship has for the third year in a row, named Victory Junction Camp the official charity of the tournament.

“Just as Wyndham Worldwide is focused on accommodating the needs of our guests, we are also committed to supporting the communities we serve,” said Stephen P. Holmes, chairman and CEO of Wyndham Worldwide. “Our relationship with Victory Junction Camp has been a tremendously rewarding experience for all of us at Wyndham Worldwide. We are proud to once again make Victory Junction the official charity of the Wyndham Championship.”

Victory Junction Camp, a year–round camping facility, enriches the lives of children with chronic medical conditions and serious illnesses, such as cancer, arthritis, hemophilia, diabetes and physical disabilities by providing life–changing camping experiences that are exciting, fun and empowering in a safe and medically sound environment. The Camp was opened in 2004 by Pattie and Kyle Petty in honor of their son Adam.

“It is such a privilege to receive another donation from the Wyndham Championship because it not only helps us expand our programs but it also highlights our services to a national audience,” said Pattie Petty, chairman and co–founder of Victory Junction. “The support from the tournament, our local community and Wyndham Worldwide ensures we continue serving as many children as possible during these tough economic times.”

The 2009 Wyndham Championship begins tomorrow at Sedgefield Country Club in Greensboro, N.C. Additional tournament information is available at www.wyndhamchampionship.com or through the tournament office at (336) 379–1570.

About Wyndham Worldwide
As one of the world’s largest hospitality companies, Wyndham Worldwide (NYSE: WYN) offers individual consumers and business–to–business customers a broad suite of hospitality products and services across various accommodation alternatives and price ranges through its premier portfolio of world–renowned brands. Wyndham Hotel Group encompasses over 7,000 franchised hotels and approximately 590,200 hotel rooms worldwide. Group RCI offers its 3.8 million members access to more than 73,000 vacation properties located in approximately 100 countries. Wyndham Vacation Ownership develops, markets and sells vacation ownership interests and provides consumer financing to owners through its network of over 150 vacation ownership resorts serving over 830,000 owners throughout North America, the Caribbean and the South Pacific. Wyndham Worldwide, headquartered in Parsippany, N.J., employs approximately 25,500 employees globally.

For more information about Wyndham Worldwide, please visit the Company’s web site at www.wyndhamworldwide.com.

Seasons Holidays, one of the UK’s leading holiday ownership developers, has appointed digital marketing agency Koko Digital to create its first viral game.

The game is based on the ‘Space Invaders’ concept with a holiday twist.  Players take control of a holiday maker and the main aim of the game is to keep the sun loungers clear.
Players can choose from a male or female character to control and can customize their sun beds. Using a water hose, players must soak the oncoming people with water and blast them back into the pool to stop them taking over the sun loungers. At the end of each game scores can be entered on to a leader board the top ten highest scores are shown.

The game invites users to enter a competition to win 2 weeks luxury accommodation every year for life!
Leslie McCann, Group Marketing Director for Seasons Holidays says; “Online brand awareness is extremely important for Seasons Holidays, Koko Digital has created some excellent viral campaigns for multinational organisations; Sunbed Invaders is an engaging and creative game and we are confident this will generate a strong viral response.”

Karl Bloor, Director for Koko Digital says; “Creating such an enjoyable and addictive viral game for Seasons Holidays has been a fantastic project for Koko Digital.  We are positive this campaign will generate a huge viral response and increase Seasons Holidays online brand awareness.”
To play the game please visit www.sunbedinvaders.com

Largest Canadian-owned vacation ownership developer joins worldwide network of affiliated resorts

RCI, the global leader in vacation exchange and one of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies (NYSE: WYN), today announced an affiliation agreement with Fairmont Resort Properties Ltd., the largest Canadian-owned developer and marketer of interval vacation ownership condominiums.

“With beautiful, top quality resorts in highly sought after destinations, Fairmont Resort Properties Ltd. is a wonderful addition to our RCI network,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO, Group RCI. “We couldn’t be more pleased to add this leading developer and their unique properties to RCI’s collection of top vacation destinations. This affiliation is also a testament to RCI’s ongoing efforts to offer great vacations to our more than 3.8 million members.”

As part of this relationship, Sunchaser Vacation Club at Fairway Cottages on Oahu, Hawaii, and Fairmont Vacation Villas in Fairmont Hot Springs, British Columbia, join RCI’s network of more than 4,000 affiliated resorts worldwide.

“RCI invented the exchange business 35 years ago and has been the innovator and leader ever since,” said Murray Moore, CRO, Fairmont Resort Properties Ltd. “Their diverse selection of luxury resorts the world over deliver the highest quality vacations to their members. Being associated with RCI was important to Sunchaser Vacation Club at Fairway Cottages and Fairmont Vacation Villas. Furthermore, RCI offers exciting technology and marketing advantages for us as well as the largest possible selection of vacation resorts for our timeshare owners. We are very pleased to be working with them.”

Sunchaser Vacation Club at Fairway Cottages, located at the Makaha Resort & Golf Club, offers members an ideal Hawaiian vacation setting in the cliffs of the Waianae Mountains and Oahu’s pristine western shore. The resort offers Polynesian-style villa accommodations, an ocean view restaurant and lounge, and a host of on-site amenities for guests including a swimming pool, tennis courts and spa services.

Fairmont Vacation Villas is located in the beautiful Columbia Valley and offers guests the opportunity to stay in fully-furnished villas surrounded by nature and wildlife. The resort offers villas equipped with jetted tubs and decks with barbeques, while the area lends itself to many activities including hiking and biking trails, whitewater rafting, boating and horseback riding.

For additional information on the value-added services offered to leisure real estate developers by Group RCI visit www.grouprci.com.

About Group RCI:
Group RCI, part of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies, (NYSE: WYN) is the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and the European leader in vacation rentals, with exclusive access for specified periods to more than 73,000 vacation properties in approximately 100 countries. The company is comprised of vacation exchange, including RCI, the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and provider of travel services to businesses and consumers and The Registry Collection® program, the world’s largest luxury exchange program; vacation rentals, including Endless Vacation RentalsSM , Landal GreenParks®, Novasol®, and other renowned vacation rental brands, through which vacationers can rent a variety of property types, from city apartments to villas; and NorthCourse® Leisure Real Estate Solutions, an international leader in providing a full spectrum of advisory, research, and asset management services. Wyndham Worldwide Corporation is one of the world’s largest hospitality companies with leading brands in lodging franchising, vacation ownership, vacation rentals and vacation exchange. For additional information visit www.grouprci.com or the media center of www.wyndhamworldwide.com.

Parkside Victoria Resort & Spa in Victoria BC, a completely sustainable resort hotel leading Canada in innovative green resort hotel development and design by targeting LEED® Platinum Certification, has affiliated with Wyndham Worldwide to afford owners with exceptional members-only luxury leisure travel resources and services. Owners at Parkside Victoria Resort & Spa have access to the Registry Collection’s Signature Selections, a high-end luxury fractional vacation home exchange network with 158 affiliate luxury resorts and residences worldwide as well as exclusive member benefits at the most desirable resort destinations in the world. Parkside is Aviawest Resorts’ newest addition to its portfolio of resort properties.

Parkside Victoria Resort & Spa (www.parksidevictoria.com) has affiliated with The Registry Collection, a member of the Wyndham Worldwide family.

The Registry Collection is a high-end luxury fractional vacation home exchange network with 158 affiliate luxury resorts and residences worldwide.

Owners at Parkside Victoria Resort & Spa have access to the Registry Collection’s Signature Selections and exclusive member benefits including a vast array of exciting activities, custom travel packages and other premium services at the most desirable resort destinations in the world.

“We are very excited to be able to offer our Parkside purchasers access to the Registry Collection. High quality regional resorts and properties abroad are truly exceptional. Our owners are able to trade their Parkside vacation home for 3 and 4 bedroom single family homes and Private Residence Clubs and get the benefit of access to brands such as Hyatt, Disney and Cirque Du Soleil,” says Aviawest Resorts CEO Jim Pearson about the affiliation.

One of the most valuable benefits to members is the Registry Collection Concierge, which provides 24/7 services and assistance with everything from theatre tickets and dinner reservations to car rentals and cruise bookings.

Parkside Victoria Resort & Spa is Aviawest Resorts’ (www.aviawest.com) newest addition to its portfolio of resort properties. With exquisite interiors, sustainable environmentally-friendly design and a robust amenities package, Parkside Victoria Resort & Spa offers affordable, flexible second home ownership in the heart of downtown Victoria, BC, Canada.

As a completely sustainable resort hotel, Parkside Victoria Resort & Spa is leading Canada in innovative green resort hotel development and design by targeting LEED® Platinum Certification, the highest rating.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is reaching out to corporate executives, meeting planners, and conference attendees in an effort to encourage the scheduling of meetings from educational seminars, incentive trips, customer appreciation events to annual retreats. With a message that “It’s Not Extravagant, If It Produces Results”, the award-winning hotel company is highlighting the added value proposition of selecting a Ritz-Carlton hotel or resort, even during the current challenging economic environment.

“Meetings Within Reach” includes the following value-added components for groups booking ten or more nights at Ritz-Carlton hotels all over the world:

• Daily continental breakfast
• General session meeting room
• High speed internet access in one meeting room
• 20 per cent savings on audio visual needs
• Select suite upgrades
• Meetings must be booked by September 30 and held by December 31, 2009

Offering an attractive range of rates (starting from $159 to $229 subject to availability and certain restrictions), as well as outstanding service and surroundings, which make choosing The Ritz-Carlton a sound business decision, the company is targeting the third and fourth quarters of 2009 to encourage new meetings, as well as the rebooking of events cancelled in the wake of the recession.

“As companies look ahead, we are encouraging organizations to realize the value of a truly results-oriented meeting,” said Bruce Himelstein, corporate senior vice president, sales and marketing. “The Ritz-Carlton uniquely creates environments that maximize productivity and efficiency of meetings, and pride in your employees; our efficiency and excellence in planning and execution are second to none,” Himelstein explained.
To book your meeting, please visit The Ritz-Carlton website at: www.ritzcarlton.com/meetings.

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 72 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe with future openings including Dubai International Financial Centre, United Arab Emirates; Dove Mountain, Tucson, Arizona; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Lake Tahoe, California. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company web site at www.ritzcarlton.com.

Residential Interests Now Available at Ireland’s Most Exclusive Private Golf Club

Timbers Resorts, the leading developer of intimate luxury resort properties, announced today its partnership with Kiawah Development Partners (KDP), master developer of Kiawah Island and other premier golf course communities, to launch and oversee the new private residence club at Doonbeg in County Clare, Ireland called The Links Cottages at Doonbeg. The Links Cottages will allow residential interest ownership in one of Europe’s most desired golf and lodging destinations, with a setting featuring five-star services and amenities.

“The partnership between KDP and Timbers Resorts allows two of the most successful luxury lifestyle brands to extend their offerings to a new and larger audience both here and in Europe,” says Charles P. “Buddy” Darby, III, CEO of Kiawah Development Partners. “With The Links Cottages now a Timbers Resorts Residence Club, Owners may enjoy residential interest ownership on Ireland’s stunning southwest coast which also allows membership in the prestigious Doonbeg Golf Club plus access to the idyllic locations that the Timbers Collection offers.”

Easily accessible from Shannon airport, Doonbeg is set along one and a half miles of crescent-shaped beach and may be the last true links course built in Ireland and Great Britain. Designed by two-time British Open champion Greg Norman, the course was named Golf Digest’s “Best New International Course” in its opening year. The Links Cottages at Doonbeg are located near the Lodge, which gives Owners access to all of the resort amenities including dining venues from renowned chef and lead judge of Bravo’s “Top Chef” Tom Colicchio, the culinary force behind New York City’s Gramercy Tavern and Craft, an acclaimed spa designed by award-winning Clodagh and an extensive golf program. Membership in the private golf club with purchase, assures full access to the course and members club areas.

“Timbers Resorts is delighted to partner with KDP at Doonbeg and at several other planned locations in the future,” said David A. Burden, CEO & Founder of Timbers Resorts. “We admire the casual sophistication and quality nature of their resorts, as well as their attention to detail in the key areas of comfort and enjoyment that their impeccable operations teams deliver. Timbers Resorts strives to deliver the best experience anyone could envision at each of our locations and with KDP at Doonbeg, this will be surely the case.”

Spanning an average of almost 3,000 square feet, each of the eight Cottages offers four bedrooms and an expansive living space with décor representing a simple yet elegant country style. Each cottage boasts kitchens custom-designed by SieMatic, large living and dining areas, bedrooms each with a private bath that encompass large marble slab showers, stone vanities, and heated towel racks. Owners will enjoy waxed limestone slab and wide-plank old oak floors, timber casement windows, two gas-burning fireplaces, carpets in natural fabrics and reclaimed wooden beams throughout. All Cottages are designed for the ultimate in comfort, convenience, and luxury with stunning views of the fairways and lush Irish countryside from all four bedrooms. The launch price per deeded interest is €165,000.

Over the past 10 years, Timbers Resorts has created an incomparable host of benefits and privileges for Owners to ease and enhance the vacation experience. Owners will become Members in the Timbers Collection and have access to the Timbers Reciprocity Program (TRP) that allows them to trade their vacation weeks and stay at any of the other Timbers Collection properties in the world’s most sought-after ski, golf, beach and countryside destinations. In addition to TRP, Doonbeg Owners will also receive access and services from Sentient Jet, Hertz Car Rental, MedjetAssist, Luggage Forward and more, as well as, savings at hospitality affiliates.

Doonbeg’s coveted location on Ireland’s famed southwest coast makes it an ideal destination for surfing, sailing, hiking, cycling, picnicking, antiquing, fishing, horseback riding, dolphin watching and more. The ancient village of Doonbeg is a short drive up the road, offering an assortment of restaurants and old pubs for vacationers to enjoy.

View The Links Cottages online at www.CottagesAtDoonbeg.com or call toll-free in the U.S. at 888-366-6604 or in Ireland at +353-65-9055666.

About Timbers Resorts
Since 1999, Timbers Resorts, the developer of small, private, luxury resort properties including private residence clubs, boutique hotels, and club communities has established an unrivaled reputation in the real estate industry. Its exclusive collection of intimate prestigious developments unlike any other, reside in the most sought-after destinations in the world.

Current Timbers Resorts properties include The Timbers Club in Snowmass, Colorado; Esperanza in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; The Rocks Luxury Residence Club in Scottsdale, Arizona; Castello di Casole in Tuscany, Italy; The Preserve at Botany Bay on St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands; One Steamboat Place in Steamboat Springs, Colorado; The Orchard at The Carneros Inn in Napa, CA; and The Villas at Rancho Valencia in Rancho Santa Fe, CA.

With these properties, Timbers Resorts has taken the concept of real estate to a new level of luxury, exclusivity and personal service by creating the Timbers Collection which provides reciprocity between resorts through the Timbers Reciprocity Program, as well as, a host of partnerships with purveyors of travel and the art of living well such as Sentient Jets, Backroads, Hertz, Priority Pass and more. For more information, please visit www.TimbersResorts.com.

About Kiawah Development Partners
Kiawah Development Partners (KDP) is the master developer of Doonbeg Golf Club, as well as Kiawah Island, a 10,000-acre sea island located 21 miles south of Charleston, South Carolina. The company’s other subsidiaries include Kiawah Island Real Estate, The Kiawah Island Club, which encompasses the Tom Fazio-designed River Course, the Tom Watson-designed Cassique, The Beach Club by Robert A.M. Stern and Sasanqua, the Members-only spa; Freshfields Village; and Christophe Harbour in St. Kitts. Additional information may be found online at www.Kiawah.com.

Tara Cappadona has been named to the newly created position of Resource Manager for Spirit Incentives, one of the nation’s premier incentive companies.

A Spirit Incentives employee for nearly two years, Cappadona works directly with vendor partners and Spirit’s internal fulfillment department to ensure that all product certificates are properly serviced. This involves establishing and building vendor partner relationships and negotiating contracts with various cruise lines, hotel wholesalers, airlines and car rental companies. She also coordinates the input of vendor information into the company’s extensive database and assists in preparing materials for agent training.

According to Taylor Billington, Executive VP for Spirit Incentives, “With her extensive background, Tara is the ideal person to serve as liaison between our company and our travel partners. Her skills as a negotiator, marketing analyst and long-term strategic planner have been highly beneficial to our corporation. We are delighted have her in this key position.”

“Since I have been with Spirit Incentives, I have met some truly amazing people,” added Cappadona, “My goal is to help provide the optimal experience for our customers.”  Prior to joining Spirit Incentives in January 2008, the Northeastern University graduate gained nine years of experience working in product development as well as providing strategic planning guidance to various travel industries, including cruise lines and hotels.

Spirit Incentives is a full service, privately owned incentive marketing firm specializing in marketing programs delivered as customer acquisition, retention and reward incentives. Founded in 1990 and located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Spirit has become respected as the premier incentive solution provider for small to medium sized businesses as well as private and Fortune 500 companies. Spirit’s client list and travel vendor partners are among the most successful and prestigious in the country.
Visit: www.Spirit-Incentives.com

World’s largest vacation exchange company grows its Club Mahindra affiliated resorts to a total of 15 across India’s most sought after destinations

RCI, the global leader in vacation exchange and one of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies (NYSE: WYN), today announced four new affiliations with resorts belonging to leisure hospitality major Club Mahindra.

The new resorts include Club Mahindra Lake Forest in Yercaud, Club Mahindra Tusker Trails in Thekkady, Club Mahindra Backwater Retreat in Ashtamudi Lake and Club Mahindra Dancing Waters in Naukuchiatal.

“RCI is very proud to continue to grow our long-standing relationship and partnership with Club Mahindra as we welcome these extraordinary new resorts into our global exchange program,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO, Group RCI. “Each of these resorts exemplifies the wide range of vacation experiences our more than 3.8 million subscribing members can enjoy in over 4,000 locations across the globe.”

“We are thrilled to announce these four new affiliations into the RCI network and are glad that our members will enjoy the RCI advantage that allows for greater vacation flexibility and an opportunity to explore new destinations with every holiday,” said Ramesh Ramanathan, managing director, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd.

Club Mahindra Lake Forest is located in Yercaud in the hills above Salem at an altitude of 1,600 meters. The resort, which is a short walk from Lake Forest at the town’s center, was originally a British bungalow dating back to the 1800s. The architectural style of the resort integrates a classic vintage ambience with modern luxuries. Situated in the midst of a coffee estate, Yercaud is just 200 kilometers from Bangalore and 340 kilometers from Chennai, with a network of highways connecting these cities to Salem.

Club Mahindra Lake Forest

Club Mahindra Tusker Trails is located in Thekkady, in Kerala, and offers the ultimate getaway for travelers looking for a tranquil holiday. Situated amidst spice plantations and lush woods, the resort offers guests opportunities for scenic hikes and mountain walks. Built in traditional Indian ‘machan’ style, the resort boasts 32 rooms that exude a warm and rustic charm. All rooms have private balconies overlooking hills, foliage or landscaped gardens. The resort’s many offerings include, a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves local delicacies, an ayurveda center, and an array of indoor and outdoor activities such as bamboo rafting, plantation tours, jungle treks and elephant rides.

Club Mahindra Tusker Trails

Club Mahindra Backwater Retreat is located on the quiet and peaceful banks of  Ashtamudi Lake in Kerala. Historic Kollam is the gateway to Ashtamudi, and is just 15 kilometers from the resort by road or 10 minutes by speedboat. The resort has 25 rooms spread across five chalets, with each room overlooking a view of the garden and lake.  Guests can opt for a massage at Svaastha spa, a boat trip, bird watching, kayaking or fishing. Located less than two hours by road to Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam and Alappuzha, guests looking for adventure can travel to Alappuzha on the backwaters by boat.

Club Mahindra Backwater Retreat

Club Mahindra Dancing Waters is located in Naukuchiatal, just 25 kilometers from the town of Nainital, in the Himalayan mountains. Naukuchiatal, known as the “lake of nine corners,” is situated in a valley surrounded by tranquil orchards and dense jungles. Club Mahindra Dancing Waters offers 31 rooms that blend into the surroundings, each offering scenic views of either the lake or the hills.

For additional information on the value-added services offered to leisure real estate developers by Group RCI visit www.grouprci.com.

About Group RCI:
Group RCI, part of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies, (NYSE: WYN) is the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and the European leader in vacation rentals, with exclusive access for specified periods to more than 73,000 vacation properties in approximately 100 countries. The company is comprised of vacation exchange, including RCI, the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and provider of travel services to businesses and consumers and The Registry Collection® program, the world’s largest luxury exchange program; vacation rentals, including Endless Vacation RentalsSM , Landal GreenParks®, Novasol®, and other renowned vacation rental brands, through which vacationers can rent a variety of property types, from city apartments to villas; and NorthCourse® Leisure Real Estate Solutions, an international leader in providing a full spectrum of advisory, research, and asset management services. Wyndham Worldwide Corporation is one of the world’s largest hospitality companies with leading brands in lodging franchising, vacation ownership, vacation rentals and vacation exchange. For additional information visit www.grouprci.com or the media center of www.wyndhamworldwide.com.

Industry Veterans Collaborate on First Project in Thailand

Bustling with affluent leisure and business travelers, Asia has become an exemplary model for the hospitality industry, with many successful luxury hotels and lifestyle brands. Realizing the potential of this market and other areas around the globe, LaTour Signature Group, a joint-venture enterprise with ResortCom Elite that provides management services to small, luxury fractional ownership properties, and IndoChine Group, an international lifestyle brand, have teamed up to create the LaTour IndoChine Hotel Group. The newly formed hotel management company is also announcing its first project, the IndoChine Resort and Villas, in Phuket, Thailand.

Based in Singapore, the LaTour IndoChine Hotel Group will provide comprehensive specialized services to developers entering the realm of boutique hotels and six-star hotels, as well as whole and fractional ownership villas. The group plans to expand further into Asia, in addition to the Middle East, New Zealand and Australia.

“By combining the strengths of the LaTour Signature Group and the IndoChine Group, we are able to further assist developers and manage properties with global influence,” said Tom LaTour, founder of LaTour Signature Group. “For example, the IndoChine Resort and Villas represent an ideal opportunity to create a premier hybrid luxury resort for the region and Middle East overall.”

The first property in the LaTour IndoChine Hotel Group’s portfolio, the IndoChine Resort and Villas in Phuket, Thailand promises to be a haven of contemporary Asian living for refreshing and rejuvenating the body and mind. Overlooking Kalim Beach and the Andaman Sea, the resort consists of one- to six-bedroom villas, ocean view studios and a large entertainment complex featuring restaurants, deli, bakery, rooftop beach bar and nightclub.  The property will include elevated terraces, a stunning waterfall, two natural pools and five spacious spa treatment rooms, along with full-time butler service and high speed wireless Internet throughout all accommodations.

“The IndoChine Resort and Villas is the first of many LaTour IndoChine properties to come,” said Michael Ma, chief executive of the IndoChine Group. “And by providing all the necessary services and expert advice luxury resorts and hotels need, the LaTour IndoChine Hotel Group will help them successfully launch into the Asian market.”

About LaTour Signature Group
Launched by Tom LaTour in 2007, LaTour Signature Group delivers an exceptional five-star vacation resort “lifestyle” experience to select developers and owners of new and existing properties by managing all of the operational aspects of fractional interest resorts, boutique hotels and condominium resorts.

By delivering management services that are unprecedented in the industry, LaTour Signature Group is committed to becoming the ultimate brand for private residence clubs and luxury fractional properties through superior service, distinctive amenities, chef-driven restaurants and culinary activities and superior attention to detail.

LaTour Signature Group will manage all resort operations – including the training and supervising of staff, reservation coordination and concierge services as well as sales and marketing of fractional rentals.  When brought in on the ground floor, LaTour Signature Group can effectively lend its expertise and direction to the resort’s conceptual design and operational functionality and provide referrals and recommendations for other key partner alliances, such as real estate sales and marketing.

The LaTour Signature Group offers two product lines to the rapidly growing fractional market. The first is the private label brand of LaTour Signature for private residence club properties with a five Diamond or Star rating. The other is the ResortCom Elite line, which operates under the luxury division of San Diego-based ResortCom International, for properties that meet four Diamond or Star status.

For more information about LaTour Signature Group, visit http://www.latoursignaturegroup.com, or call 415-568-2210.

About ResortCom Elite
Based in San Diego, ResortCom Elite is the luxury division of its parent company, ResortCom International, and provides financial services, concierge and owner services and resort operations to private residence clubs, luxury fractional ownership properties and condo hotels. Under the direction of Chairman John Small and President Jeff Healy, ResortCom International’s 200 employees in offices in California and Florida and 800 employees worldwide at its resorts, provide exceptional services to over 50 clients worldwide and more than 200,000 satisfied owners at resorts in the Caribbean, Mexico and the U.S. (including Hawaii).

About the IndoChine Group Pte Ltd
The IndoChine Group of bars, restaurants, clubs, villas and resorts is a unique reflection of contemporary Asian lifestyle and is synonymous for its authentic ‘nutriceutical’ cuisine, award-winning designs, prominent events and internationally famed parties. Apart from the 15 venues in Singapore, the IndoChine Group also has venues in Kalim Beach, Phuket; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Hamburg, Germany; New Delhi, India, and most recently, at the fX X’nter in Jakarta, Indonesia, bringing it to a total of 26 internationally.

Extremely popular with the jet-set crowd, local and international guests are offered more than just a bevy of restaurants, bars, clubs, hotels and resorts; they are presented with an adventurous yet sophisticated and holistic entertainment experience not found anywhere else. The group is also fast growing into an international lifestyle group, with an expansion into the Asia-Pacific region as well as into the Middle East and Europe.

For more information, please visit http://www.IndoChine-Group.com.

14 Destination Hotels & Resorts properties now supported by EthoStream, with the latest two premier properties including the new Southern California world-class resort and spa, Terranea

EthoStream, LLC, a Telkonet company (NYSE Amex: TKO), operator of one of the largest hospitality high-speed Internet access (HSIA) networks in the U.S. and a preferred or endorsed provider for some of the world’s largest hotel companies, announced today that it has received contracts from Destination Hotels & Resorts, consistently ranked one of the top ten largest independent hospitality management companies in the U.S. EthoStream is providing a single-solution converged IP network for the world-class Terranea Resort on California’s Palos Verdes Peninsula, which opened on June 12, 2009. The project involves integrating wireless and wired high-speed Internet access (HSIA) with back-office connectivity and remote customer support. At the Resort at Squaw Creek near Lake Tahoe, California, EthoStream is installing wireless networking throughout the luxury resort, as well as providing 24/7 guest support services.

Jeff Henschel, Vice President of Technology – Hotels for Destination Hotels & Resorts, commented, “For our new flagship Terranea Resort, we wanted to consolidate a diversity of network applications over a single managed IP network, while still meeting our stringent budget requirements. EthoStream was able to deliver on all fronts. Its core network delivers consistent connectivity – across guest Internet access, mini-bar communications, guest TV systems, and our Property Management System. This converged network achieves far greater efficiency, as well as giving us a secure, extendible platform for our business-critical applications, and streamlining our operations.”

With EthoStream’s web-based management interface, Destination Hotels & Resorts is now able to manage 14 of their properties remotely from a single location, involving a total of over 4,000 guestrooms. Remote management facilities include the ability to compare HSIA usage among properties, as well as monitor Internet connectivity and guest support activity. EthoStream will be providing 24/7 support to both properties, taking over guest support from the internal IT staff at the Vail Cascade Resort and displacing the current vendor at the Resort at Squaw Creek. EthoStream’s in-house support center has a real-time view of guests’ HSIA usage via EthoStream’s web-based platform, enabling quick, proactive problem resolution.

About Destination Hotels & Resorts
Destination Hotels & Resorts is one of the largest independent hospitality management companies in the country with more than 30 luxury and upscale hotels, resorts and conference centers. To protect and preserve the unique communities in which the company operates, Destination launched Destination Earth, an environmental sustainability program in 2008. In June of 2009, Destination opened the 582-room Terranea Resort situated on the Palos Verdes Peninsula in southern California. The 102-acre ocean front resort features a 25,000-square-foot destination spa, three swimming pools, three ocean-view restaurants and a Todd Eckenrode-designed par three golf course. In addition to Terranea Resort in the greater Los Angeles area, Destination operates properties in key metropolitan areas and resort markets including Washington, D.C., Denver, San Diego, Santa Fe, Aspen, Palm Springs, Houston and Lake Tahoe. Destination is a subsidiary of Los Angeles-based investment, development and management firm Lowe Enterprises. For more information on the properties in the Destination Hotels & Resorts collection, please visit www.destinationhotels.com.

About EthoStream
EthoStream, LLC is a technology solution provider targeting the hospitality and MDU/MTU verticals. Operating one of the largest hospitality high-speed Internet access (HSIA) networks in the U.S., EthoStream, a preferred or endorsed provider for some of the world’s largest hotel franchisors, has developed the most comprehensive technology management platform available for the hospitality industry.
EthoStream has distanced itself from other providers in the hospitality HSIA field through the size of its EthoStream Hospitality Network, high quality of technology and support provided to network members, security of the network and overall guest satisfaction. Beyond claims made by competitors, as the premier hospitality HSIA provider, EthoStream has continued to lead the industry through end-to-end service and its high quality standards. www.ethostream.com

About Telkonet
Telkonet provides integrated, centrally-managed energy management and SmartGrid networking solutions that improve energy efficiency and reduce the demand for new energy generation. The Company’s energy management systems, aimed at the hospitality, commercial, government, healthcare and education markets, are dynamically lowering HVAC costs in over 140,000 rooms, and are an integral part of various utilities’ green energy efficiency and rebate programs.
Primarily targeting SmartGrid and utility applications, Telkonet’s patented powerline communications (PLC) platform delivers cost-effective, robust networking, with real-time online monitoring and maintenance capabilities, increasing the reliability and energy efficiency across the entire utility grid. www.telkonet.com.

After fifteen years of project and municipal refinement, the mountain themed Mahalee Lodge and city center redevelopment project reached approval of the tentative map with the city of Markleeville, Tom Abdoo, project lead, announced today.

The project is situated on 38 acres of prime real estate in Markleeville; nestled amongst the natural mountain beauty of Alpine County, CA — the least dense county, by population, in the state. When approved for LEED certification it would be the first all-inclusive LEED certified commercial center, resort lodge and fractional development in the Lake Tahoe area. The approved plans encompass a redeveloped downtown business epicenter that closely reflects its pioneering heritage, 49 alpine-inspired fractional luxury cabins and a 38,000 square foot lodge, coined “Mahalee” — a name derived from the native Washoe Indian term for the processing of the acorn that was traded for pine nuts.

“Markleeville is an undiscovered diamond lying peacefully in the shadow of Lake Tahoe,” stated John Sweeney, President, Global Resorts, Inc. an international consulting firm in resort and recreational development. The intent in developing this gem of a project is not to exploit this natural environmental wonder, but to open its serene and timeless beauty to discriminating consumers who appreciate the mountain lifestyle without the congestion and overcrowding that now typifies the Lake Tahoe area.” Sweeney also mentioned that the project will set a new standard and stewardship in LEED development in this market area. “This project is exemplary of the marriage between environmental responsibility and sensitive and sustainable development,” Sweeney concluded.

Dick Ragatz, noted and widely recognized fractional authority, stated in a recent article in Vacation Ownership World that “…more than three in four fractional developers felt that the sales performance was as good or better than that of whole ownership developers in their local market area.” Ragatz went on to say that, “sales were down last year and there were fewer projects in active sales, but sales are still being made in the so-called iconic locations that will always have a highly perceived value. They are situated in places with limited land being sold at very high prices.”

Notwithstanding, the proven consumer demand for the Lake Tahoe environs, coupled with the unique environmental quality of Alpine County, CA and the attendant dynamics of the Markleeville project, would seem to bode well for the future of this project as the economy ultimately recovers.

Club La Costa Resorts & Hotels has opened the doors on its sensational new resort in Turkey.

The resort: Apollonium Spa & Beach Resort faces onto an exclusive stretch of beach in a plum position on tranquil and breathtaking Bozbuk Bay, on the country’s south-west coast.

A village-style development, the 350-unit resort boasts an impressive list of features. These include the showpiece and very chic Byblos Beach Club & Spa, where members and guests can enjoy massage and beauty treatments including a traditional Turkish hamam.

The cool white beds of the Beach Club are planted across lawns and pale golden sand, providing front line viewing for the bay’s famous sunsets of cocktail-coloured skies.

Other features include an aqua park, heated indoor and outdoor pools, fitness facilities, minigolf, tennis, water sports and an al fresco cinema, as well as restaurant and snack bar.

Apollonium Spa & Beach Resort in Turkey is a mixed use resort which includes the  60-unit Adonis Private Members Club, sold as freehold homes by Club La Costa with a leaseback arrangement and guaranteed rental return.

“We are proud to say that the resort opened its doors on schedule, on August 1st, with very complimentary reviews from the first members to go there. It is successfully launched toward becoming what we firmly believe will be a hugely popular resort, with a very big future for ourselves and our members,” said Richard Fletcher, CLC resort management director.

Club La Costa has a second resort in Turkey, California Golf & Spa Resort – Turkey, scheduled to open in 2010, it too will offer outstanding facilities including an 18-hole golf course and a Turkish baths.

For more information about Club La Costa visit www.clublacosta.com
For real estate visit www.clcestates.com

In New Westin Hotels Sleep Study, A Great Night’s Sleep Trumps Great Sex

In Celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the Heavenly Bed Westin Surveys Travelers’ Sleep Habits; More than half of travelers prefer a great night’s sleep to great sex

Westin Hotels Partners with the renowned National Sleep Foundation to Launch (888) TIME-4-SLEEP Hotline to help People Get a Good Night’s Sleep

A great night’s sleep trumps great sex according to more than half (51%) of the U.S. respondents to a new global survey of sleeping habits conducted by Westin Hotels & Resorts. Just how desperate are we for sleep? Well, 42% said they’d rather have a sleeping pill on their hotel pillow than the ubiquitous chocolate, and 62% take a relaxant, sleep or stress medication when traveling overnight.

Today, Westin Hotels unveils the results of a new global sleep study of more than 12,500 frequent travelers in ten countries – a follow-up to a sleep study the hotel giant conducted a decade ago when it launched its now iconic Heavenly Bed. When Westin debuted its revolutionary all-white bed, it spurred a global hotel bedding war that instantly made Earth tone polyester bedspreads and foam mattresses relics of old. Millions of travelers have benefited, and today 43% of frequent travelers say the quality of sleep on the road has gotten better, 25% of Road Warriors said they’d pay $100 more for a hotel with a great bed, and more than half would go out of their way to stay in a hotel with their favorite bed.

Forget the Boogie Man, it’s Mortgages, Marriage and Blackberry PDA’s That Keep Us Up at Night
While good beds on the road may be easier to find, sleep itself can be elusive and our round-the-clock work life, today’s economic woes and good old fashioned relationship problems often get in the way of a good night’s sleep. To wit:

56% of U.S. respondents said that with our 24/7 lifestyles, a good night’s sleep is more important than ever, though unfortunately 61% believe that today’s technology and constant connectivity impairs sleep. And our beloved Blackberry’s make for dreadful sleep companions.

60% said their PDAs have prevented them from getting shut eye.

58% of respondents said the biggest worry keeping them up at night is bills and paying the mortgage.

Another key culprit that keeps people tossing and turning is problems with their spouse or partner (25%).

Honey, I have a headache said HE – the Sex vs. Sleep Gender Debate
In the 10 years since the Westin brand conducted its original sleep study, our desire for sleep has increased, and our sex lives have suffered. Today 51% of frequent travelers in the U.S. prefer a great night’s sleep to great sex, compared to just 31% who chose sleep over sex 10 years ago. Contrary to conventional wisdom, it’s men who are more likely than women to take sleep over sex, with the majority of women saying they prefer sex to snoozing. And Americans are not alone – in nine of 10 countries surveyed, sleep beats sex – only the Canadians prefer seduction vs. slumber.

Other key findings include:

Hotel Beds in a Post-Heavenly Bed Era
More than half (57%) found that a great hotel bed provides a better sleep experience than at home, and more than one in four strongly agreed that sleeping in a hotel bed while on a business trip is a “luxury”—a significant change from 10 years ago, when 82% of travelers found something to complain about hotel beds.
The majority of those surveyed like the hotel mattress (59%) and pillows (54%) better than their bed at home.

Sleep Woes Take Their Toll
57% of respondents say a bad night’s sleep has hurt their business performance.
The most common side effects of a bad night’s sleep? Getting in a fight with a boss or co-worker (29%) or a spouse or partner (25%).

A Good Night’s Sleep is a Phone Call Away…
There is hope for the weary eyed. As a result of the study findings and Westin Hotel’s ongoing commitment to wellness, the brand has partnered with the National Sleep Foundation to launch a toll-free sleep hotline. Starting today, the National Sleep Foundation Hotline brought to you by Westin Hotels, (888) TIME-4-SLEEP, will be staffed by sleep professionals during the peak hours when people experience problems sleeping. These medically trained sleep professionals will help callers with common sleep problems and offer advice and healthy tips for getting a good night’s sleep. The sleep hotline lines will be open until September 15th, Monday through Friday, 6:00pm to 1:00am Eastern Standard Time.

Study Methodology
This study is based on a survey conducted by StudyLogic, LLC via telephone through RDD of adults who are executives, professionally employed, and with an average of 2+ business and leisure trips per year. Study results are representative of each country’s population of Executives. Twelve countries were surveyed: Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Spain, the United States, and the United Arab Emigrates. There were approximately 1,000 people surveyed in each country, with the exception of the United States, which had approximately 1,500 people. Combined percentage breakdowns for all twelve countries based on various categories are available at the end of the report. The survey consisted of thirty-three questions, some of which contained multiple parts. Due to cultural reasons, certain questions were modified or omitted for Japan and the United Arab Emigrates, and any change or omission is indicated in the following report. Interviews were conducted between June 15th and July 15th, 2009. The survey averaged 18 minutes in length and contains a margin of error in the totals of +/-3%.

About Westin Hotels & Resorts
Westin Hotels & Resorts, with 169 hotels and resorts in more than 31 countries and territories, is owned by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT). Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with 960 properties in 97 countries and 145,000 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 Aloft®, 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.

About the National Sleep Foundation
The National Sleep Foundation is dedicated to improving sleep health and safety through education, public awareness, and advocacy. It is well-known for its annual Sleep in AmericaTM poll. The Foundation is a charitable, educational and scientific not-for-profit organization located in Washington, DC. Its membership includes researchers and clinicians focused on sleep medicine, professionals in the health, medical and science fields, individuals, patients, people affected by drowsy driving and more than 900 healthcare facilities throughout North America. For more information about the National Sleep Foundation and a directory of its sleep center members, please visit sleepfoundation.org.

RCI, the global leader in vacation exchange and one of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies (NYSE: WYN), today launched a new programme to formally honor sales and innovation among its European affiliates in the timeshare industry. The RCI Award for Developer Achievement (RADA) programme will recognise the importance of a quality sales operation, and the performance of outstanding resort staff and developers who lead the industry through innovative products and programmes at their resorts.

“These awards have been created to thank our affiliates and their staffs for their continued support and to further recognise their success in sales, marketing, product development and service quality,” said Jonathan Back, managing director, RCI Europe, Middle East, Africa and India.

The RADA awards include the following categories:

Top European Performer – Recognises the affiliate producing the highest volume of RCI membership enrollments during the year

Top Regional Performers – Recognises the top performing affiliate from each of the five European regions based on volume of RCI membership enrolments during the year

Top Performer: Newcomer – Recognises the top affiliate based on volume of RCI membership enrollments during the year with less than two years affiliation with RCI

Developer Innovation – Recognises an RCI affiliate for carrying out a new and innovative project during the year

RCI also created the RADA Distinction award which will allow affiliates to nominate a member of their staff for individual recognition awards under the categories of best performing sales person, manager and employee of the year.

Affiliates located in the following regions are eligible to participate in the RADA awards: U.K., Ireland and Malta; Portugal, France and North Africa; Spain and Italy; South Eastern Europe; Finland, Scandinavia and Central Europe.

About Group RCI
Group RCI, part of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies, (NYSE: WYN) is the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and the European leader in vacation rentals, with exclusive access for specified periods to more than 73,000 vacation properties in approximately 100 countries. The company is comprised of vacation exchange, including RCI, the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and provider of travel services to businesses and consumers and The Registry Collection program, the world’s largest luxury exchange program; vacation rentals, including Endless Vacation Rentals®, Landal GreenParks®, Novasol®, and other renowned vacation rental brands, through which vacationers can rent a variety of property types, from city apartments to villas; and NorthCourse® Leisure Real Estate Solutions, an international leader in providing a full spectrum of advisory, research, and asset management services. Wyndham Worldwide Corporation is one of the world’s largest hospitality companies with leading brands in lodging franchising, vacation ownership, vacation rentals and vacation exchange. For additional information visit www.grouprci.com or the media center of www.wyndhamworldwide.com.