Wyndham vacation OWnership Expands Presence In Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Company expands resort offering in the popular mountain destination

Wyndham Vacation Ownership adds to its portfolio of resorts in Colorado with the opening of Wyndham Vacation Resorts Steamboat Springs and the expansion of its established WorldMark Steamboat Springs property. These additions to the company’s FairShare Plus by Wyndham and WorldMark, The Club portfolios add 142 units to the popular resort complex. Located in Ski Town, U.S.A.®, the company’s Steamboat complex is within minutes of the area’s numerous ski slopes, trails and hot springs.

“Steamboat Springs is one of only a few destinations where we have established resorts under both our WorldMark by Wyndham and Wyndham Vacation Resorts brands, which demonstrates the popularity of this destination among our more than 800,000 owner families,” said Gary Byrd, executive vice president, Hospitality Services, Wyndham Vacation Ownership. “We’re thrilled to expand our presence in one of the most renowned ski areas for families in the country.”

The new Wyndham Vacation Resorts Steamboat Springs’ design reflects the character of the area by incorporating rustic wood elements and deep earth tones throughout the interiors of the mountain-themed resort. The resort includes a mix of 71 spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom units in addition to two- and three-bedroom Presidential units. The WorldMark Steamboat Springs expansion features its own unique design and also includes 71 one-, two- and three-bedroom traditional units as well as two- and three-bedroom Penthouse and Presidential units. The beautifully appointed units at both resorts include such amenities as a full kitchen, living room, entertainment center and gas fireplace.

The complex includes a number of amenities for owners to share. After a day of skiing the surrounding slopes, mountain biking on nearby trails or rafting the Yampa River, owners and their guests can relax in the resort complex’s lounge area, game room, steam room, sauna, outdoor spas and indoor and outdoor pools. For those looking for even more active adventures on site, the complex has an arcade, sports court and playground to enjoy.

Situated in the heart of skiing country, Steamboat Springs is a year-round destination with the tradition of the Western United States matched with beautiful scenery and numerous outdoor activities. Recently named the “#1 Family Ski Resort in the West” by SKI Magazine, Steamboat Springs is an ideal destination for skiing, tubing, snowmobiling and snowboarding as well as hiking, mountain biking and fly fishing. Visitors can explore several natural hot springs throughout the area or, for a change of pace, visit the town’s charming shops and restaurants.  

Including both resorts in Steamboat Springs, Wyndham Vacation Ownership now has five resorts located across Colorado. The Steamboat Springs properties join resorts in Durango, Estes Park and Pagosa Springs.

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

Travel Advantage Network Supports The MISS Foundation During Difficult Economic Times

Travel Advantage Network (TAN), a nationwide leader in wholesale vacation accommodations, has reached out to The MISS Foundation in support of families who have lost a child from any cause such as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) or a congenital heart defect.  The MISS Foundation is an international, non-profit organization which provides immediate and ongoing support to grieving families, empowerment through community volunteerism opportunities, public policy and legislative education, and programs to reduce infant and toddler death through research and education.  TAN held raffles and received contributions from company employees, raising $750, despite difficult economic times.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our TAN family and how month after month they reach out to support causes such as The MISS Foundation,” said TAN President Brad Callahan.  “Each month one of TAN’s employees chooses a charity and leads employee efforts to raise money, donate time and participate in events in support of worthy causes.”

TAN’s efforts to support The MISS Foundation were led by employee Teresa Jeffrey.  “Since I’ve had my daughter, The MISS Foundation has become dear to my heart,” said Jeffrey.  “It is important for people to understand how they can become involved and build awareness for causes of death among children, as well as how they can support research to prevent it.”

In addition to TAN’s support of The MISS Foundation, in 2008 TAN employees have raised and donated thousands of dollars to help in the fight against juvenile alopecia areata, muscular dystrophy, congenital heart defects, autism, arthritis and child hunger.

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

2009 Ragatz Associates Ninth Annual Fractional Interest Conference to be held March 9-11 in San Francisco

Resort Real Estate Event Will Emphasize Improving Business Performance in a Down Economy

San Francisco, Calif.  (November 20, 2008) – Registration is now open for the 2009 Ragatz Associates Ninth Annual Fractional Interest Conference to be held March 9-11 at The Fairmont San Francisco.

This year’s conference will emphasize the conduct of business in the fractional interest industry in a down economy.  Critical topics of discussion will include:

• Results of the Annual State-of-the-Industry Research
• How Affluent Consumers Make Decisions
• How Some Fractional Interest Projects Continue to Make Sales
• Innovative Marketing and Sales Strategies in a Down Economy
• The Search for Financing
• Is Your Troubled Resort Development Appropriate for Fractional Interests?
• Insights and Advice from Industry Leaders

The conference should be of interest to companies already in the fractional interest industry (including private residence clubs and destination clubs), as well as to companies considering entering the industry.  As in the past eight annual conferences, it will include formal presentations as well as a series of small group break-out sessions.

The conference will feature presentations from over 60 speakers, including ones representing the land development, hotel, finance, legal, computer and public media industries.  Confirmations have been received, for example, from representatives of Hyatt, Fairmont, Timbers Resorts, Preferred Residences, The Registry Collection, The Robb Report, Luxury Institute, The Harrison Group, The Little Nell, East West Partners, CapitalSource, the American Resort Development Association, etc.  Almost one-half of the presenters will be first-time speakers at the conference.

Additionally, results from the 2009 Edition of Ragatz Associates State of the Fractional Interest Industry will be presented, providing the most up-to-date findings available about fractional projects in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. The report will be available for purchase. Current research on affluent consumers also will be presented.

Almost 25 companies once again support the conference via being Sponsors.  Included at the Platinum level are Ballard Spahr, Baker Hostetler, DCP International, Preferred Residences and The Registry Collection.  At the Gold level are ARDA, LaTour Signature Group, Star Resort Group, Weinstock & Scavo, Greenberg Traurig, Sirkin Paul Associates and Luxury Fractional Guide.  Others are at the Silver and Media levels.

Registration for the conference is $950, or available at a discounted price of $850 if purchased before January 12th. Group discounts of up to 50 percent are also available.

For questions and registration information, visit ragatzassociates.com.
Contact Sarah Winter at 541-686-9335 or info@ragatzassociates.com.

About Ragatz Associates
Ragatz Associates is recognized as the leading consulting and market research firm in the resort real estate industry on a global basis. The firm has conducted more than 2,500 studies in over 70 countries since being formed in 1974. It specializes in feasibility analysis and consumer research.

Perspective Magazine Adds Ragatz Associates Ninth Annual Fractional Interest Conference To Its Convention List

Perspective Magazine, the award winning and “most read” independent B2B publication for the timeshare and fractional ownership industry globally has confirmed that the Fractional Interest Conference by Ragatz Associates will join no less than 15 other conventions to be promoted and reviewed in 2009.

“Ragatz Associates is pleased that Perspective Magazine will be covering our 9th Annual Conference on Fractional Interests to be held in San Francisco on March 9 to 11, 2009.” Said Dr. Richard L. Ragatz, Ph.D.

“We are equally pleased to add this long running event to our convention circuit and look forward to attending the conference in March” said Paul Mattimoe, CEO, Perspective International Ltd, “We will be promoting the event through our various channels, holding an exclusive interview with Dr. Richard L. Ragatz, Ph.D. and of course reviewing the conference itself.”

For more information on the conference visit ragatzassociates.com

Perspective Magazine so far have confirmed distribution of their publication to all delegates at no less than 15 major industry conventions around the globe for 2009 and still remains free of charge for industry professionals – visit www.theperspectivemagazine.com for more details and to order your copy.

For advertising information visit www.perspectiverates.com

The Abaco Club On Winding Bay Opens New Fractional Ownership Residences

ABACO, Bahamas, Nov 18, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ — The Abaco Club on Winding Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Managed Club announces the opening of its initial phase of Ritz-Carlton Club fractional ownership residences. This secluded residential development and sporting retreat known for golf, beach and boating pursuits, now offers five newly-renovated cabanas to fractional ownership Members.

“The opening of The Ritz-Carlton Club, Abaco is a great achievement for us,” said Scott Bragg, managing director of The Abaco Club. “As we work to fulfill the vision of The Abaco Club, this is a significant milestone for the property.”

Situated on the opening holes of the 7,183 yard / par 72, Scottish-style links golf course designed by Donald Steel and Tom Mackenzie, the cabanas are adorned in the vibrant colors of blue, turquoise, orange, coral and soft neutrals - a color palette inspired by Abaco’s surrounding seas, sunsets and white, sandy beaches. Bamboo flooring throughout the cabana leads Members through French doors to a screened-in and furnished porch which boasts views of the golf course.

Each cabana provides a master bedroom with a king bed and a walk-in cedar closet. Additionally, a sitting area with sleeper sofa and lounge chairs, 42-inch plasma television, Bose sound system with DVD and CD players, desk and chair, marble-topped wet bar and under-the-counter sub-zero refrigerator/ice maker, and complimentary Wi-Fi access complete the experience. The cabanas provide approximately 570 square feet of living space.

As a points-based membership approach, Members receive points annually for use toward their vacations in Abaco. This approach provides increased flexibility as each Member can select the travel dates and residence floor plan best suited for their stay.

With pricing starting at $110,000, there are three membership options:
    –  Select Membership - 500 points
    –  Preferred Membership - 1,000 points
    –  Premium Membership - 1,500 points

A second phase of fractional residences is scheduled to open in February, ultimately offering 16 homes in the program.

About The Ritz-Carlton Club
The Ritz-Carlton Club is a deeded, fractional ownership real estate offering combining the benefits of vacation home ownership with personalized Ritz-Carlton services and amenities. For information, visit www.ritzcarltonclub.com.

SOURCE The Ritz-Carlton Club
 http://www.ritzcarltonclub.com

http://www.fractionalownershipmagazine.com/the-abaco-club-on-winding-bay-opens-new-fractional-ownership-residences/

Tempus Resorts International Donates $30,805 To The American Cancer Society

Tempus Resorts International today presented the American Cancer Society with a donation of $30,805 as a result of the company’s recent “Pink Ribbon” fundraising events in support of the American Cancer Society’s “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” annual campaign.

Tempus Resorts’ month-long fundraising efforts included a variety of employee activities to raise money and awareness about the need for continued support of breast cancer research. Fundraising activities included bake sales, themed lunches, commemorative pink ribbon sales, “pink and blue jeans days”, and other events.

The campaign culminated in the company’s fourth annual “Pink Ribbon Golf Classic” on October 17, 2008 at Mystic Dunes Golf Club, part of the Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club which is owned and operated by Tempus Resorts. Sponsored by Winter Park Construction and with the generous support of many of the company’s business partners and vendors, the tournament provided participants a great day of golf followed by a reception and silent auction.
“We are proud of our company’s commitment to community service, and we look forward to continuing our support of the American Cancer Society and other causes that touch the lives of so many here in the Central Florida community”, said Roger Farwell, President & CEO of Tempus Resorts International.

Tempus Resorts’ “Pink Ribbon” campaign has become one of the company’s signature annual community service initiatives, with over $100,000 donated to the American Cancer Society since the inaugural campaign in 2005.

About Tempus Resorts International, Ltd.
Established in December 1997, Tempus Resorts International, Ltd. is a customer-focused vacation ownership development and management company based in Orlando, Florida. Tempus is a multi-faceted enterprise comprised of ten distinct companies which support its resort and golf development, hospitality operations, and marketing, financial and technology services. Built on a solid foundation of strong and experienced management, industry-leading
systems and technology, compelling products, and a diverse team of talented, committed employees, Tempus has delivered memorable vacation experiences to over 650,000 owners and guests. Tempus is an active member of the American Resort Development Association and the Interval International exchange service network, which has designated Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club, Tempus’ flagship Orlando resort, as a “Premier Resort”, its highest level of recognition.
www.tempusresorts.com www.mystic-dunes-resort.com www.mysticdunesgolf.com www.backstageresorts.com

Defender Resorts Is On The Move Again

Defender Resorts, Inc. announced on November 1st, 2008, that they have been awarded the management contract for Ocean High Resort, Ocean City, Maryland

“We are very excited to be working with such a fine Board of Directors and we are looking forward to a long relationship, said Mr. Frank Baker, Defender’s Executive Vice President for Development.

Ocean High was developed in 1982 in Ocean City and is ideally located on the bayside with some of the units over looking the water.  The resort offers spacious two and three bedroom accommodations.

Defender, established in 1979, is headquartered in Myrtle Beach, SC and manages 17 resorts including resorts in Massachusetts, Delaware, Maryland, South Carolina, Florida and the Grand Cayman Islands.  They have established themselves over the years as a leader in vacation ownership management, resales and rentals.  Defender is large enough to provide a multitude of services, but small enough to respond to a resort’s needs quickly.  For more information on Defender Resorts contact Frank Baker at 1-800-799-0798 or log on to www.defenderresorts.com.

Intelity’s ICE, The Edge a Timeshare Needs to Score Sales Conversions

While timeshare and fractional developers across America complain about the lack of available financing, a wobbly economy and general financial uncertainty heading into 2009, one of the travel industry’s better-kept secrets is that the timeshare and fractional side actually sees things looking up.  The launch of ICE — a revolutionary in-room concierge and back-end monitoring system is the vehicle needed to drive guest experience, service, and personalization in the timeshare and fractional space. ICE creates a way to connect with guests during their entire stay, and this real-time capture equates to incremental timeshare sales at a reduced marketing cost.

The total timeshare market, heading into 2009 is estimated at more than $12 billion. But, like the housing market, the timeshare industry is going through a hard reset. The key to standing out in this growing field is competitive differentiation and giving potential buyers what they want, when they want it. And, what do timeshare members want? According to the Travel Monitor(sm) for Interval International’s report titled, “Future Timeshare Buyers: 2008 Market Profile,” timeshare buyers are desiring, “personalization and customization … and more consumer choices overall so they can select what best fits their needs.”

The timing is perfect for Intelity, an interactive hospitality technologies company, to unveil the ideal product to maximize all guest activity with the simple touch of a button? ICE allows timeshare management to tailor a guest’s experience to their desires without even being at the facility. Timeshares now more than ever must cater to the needs of the members.  ICE provides an easy, seamless interface for timeshare members to arrange services outside the unit and take the decision making challenge out of the vacation experience, allowing the member a more enjoyable experience with quick and complete service.

Developed by a team of technology pioneers, led by hospitality industry expert David Adelson, ICE was tested and developed for more than three years and readied for release just as hoteliers and timeshare management were facing the struggles of an economic downturn.   “Timeshare developers are most sensitive now to the necessity for them to develop more cash-producing products and services to lessen the financial pressures of this financing-dependant industry,” notes Joe Cervasio of Bluegreen Corporation, a 36 year resort development industry veteran with time spent at Boise Cascade Recreation Communities, Dunes Marketing Group of Hilton Head, the Rank Group of London and Marriott Vacation Club International, “Now ICE has arrived as their first opportunity to continue to lift their services to their guests and prospects, while increasing cash flow and market penetration to future sales.” To provide this needed boost ICE can generate increases in cash revenues through room service upgrades, vendor referral fees and added tours.”

ICE’s setup and upfront cost is minimal and can be easily built into the timeshare’s point of sale system. In a matter of weeks, ICE can provide timeshare staffers with up-to-the-minute information for more cost-effective operations. By including a 19-to-22-inch touch screen in every guest room — customized to the specific timeshare brand — amenities are front and center for guest exposure from the second they enter the room.  From the timeshare operator perspective, the organizing and tracking of customer service and sales interface that ICE provides is essential to lifting efficiencies such as tour penetration and volume of sale per guest.  Current timeshare operators try to connect with guests via the in-room phone and generally connect only 20% of the time. Through ICE, interaction is increased by guaranteeing that a guest is in-room for a call, allowing operators to increase guest participation in timeshare tours. This incremental tour increase is hugely significant to timeshare management. In addition, ICE can sort and target guest messaging along with tour offers by rate code and length of stay. Guests can even book tours directly in the system. Because of all these benefits, Intelity predicts a 5% increase in total timeshare tour conversions with the use of ICE.

Guests also input a text number which allows strategic mobile messaging to ensure tour confirmation and show rate. The system can send timeshare-wide messages in a second and help streamline operations to a point where management can increase revenue and efficiency at the same time, allowing concierges to intercept guest requests and cross-promote (offering tours, etc.) when appropriate and relevant.

Finally, the back-end Quality Assurance Solution portion of ICE may be the most significant feature to timeshare owners. Through careful examination of daily data, the timeshare manager can reduce or completely eliminate unnecessary expenses. Also integrated into the property’s point of sale system, the Quality Assurance program can track all activity and measure it with three-dimensional charts, graphs and spreadsheets. Budgetary decisions have never been so clear-cut before.

The benefits and ROI that ICE can provide to a timeshare are astonishing. With ICE, hotels and timeshares can market directly to guests in multiple ways with trackable return. This will lead to better allocation of marketing dollars, additional psychographic data and higher guest interaction.

For an on-screen demo and more information, visit www.intelityICE.com. Interested hoteliers and timeshare managers can call toll free 1-888-REV PAR 1 to speak with an ICE hospitality expert for more information on sales, prices, and exciting upcoming ventures.

About Intelity Corp:
Intelity, headquartered in Orlando, Florida, is a hospitality software solution company focused on the self-service marketplace. Founded in 2006, Intelity is establishing itself as the leader of in-room guest service technology, quality assurance feedback, and direct consumer marketing within the hotel and resort segments. The Company’s current and future success is driven by four fundamental values: Be creative and innovate; aim for product excellence; elevate the image of our brands with passion; and be an entrepreneurial organization. Intelity is moving toward realizing the strategic goal of brand and product diversification by leveraging business relationships and opportunities with global hotel brands and management companies.

http://www.timeshareperspective.com/intelitys-ice-the-edge-a-timeshare-needs-to-score-sales-conversions/

Sandcastle & Southgate Resorts Select SPI Orange Systems ResortSuite Software

Miami, FL, November 18, 2008 - SPI’s latest product - Orange Systems™ ResortSuite - was recently purchased by New England Vacation Management (NEVM) for two of their projects, Sandcastle Resort and Southgate Resort & Club. ResortSuite’s reservations, maintenance dues billing and other property management functionality is deployed over the Internet and costs a fraction of the Enterprise software system.

“We strictly needed resort management tools for these projects and didn’t require other parts of a full-service system, such as sales and marketing,” says NEVM President Cliff Hagberg. “Orange Systems™ ResortSuite gives us powerful management tools we need that are really easy to use and with an extremely affordable price tag. It’s truly an elegant solution for us, since there is no need to take our resorts down for a massive conversion effort. Plus, we don’t need to worry about additional programs absorbing bandwidth, purchasing additional servers, etc.”

“Now that our team has completed development of ResortSuite, which provides low-cost management software for smaller resorts via the Internet in a live, real-time environment, we are happy to see it is being enthusiastically accepted by the marketplace,” says SPI Director of Sales Matt Brosious. “It is the perfect, low-cost solution for the resort operator who wants robust software to handle the full range of management solutions.”
 
About SPI
SPI provides major developers of vacation ownership (timeshare, fractional, private residence club and others) with its .NET-based software as either an enterprise suite of software called Orange Systems, or in specific modules to handle marketing, sales, property management, finance, maintenance fee and receivables servicing, centralized reservations or Website access operations. Founded in 1978 and based in Miami, FL, SPI can be reached at 305-858-9505, sales@spiinc.com or www.spiinc.com.

About New England Vacation Management
New England Vacation Management, based on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, provides full-service resort management services, principally for timeshare projects no longer in active sales. These services include human resources, centralized reservations and on-site management, including HOA and owner services such as rentals and resales. NEVM’s two properties mentioned above, located in Massachusetts, are Sandcastle Condominiums in Provincetown and Southgate Resort & Club in Mashpee.

Researcher Predicts Luxury Fractionals Will Be The First To Emerge From The Downturn

The luxury fractional segment of the vacation home (www.dcp-international.com) market will be the first to rebound from the current real estate morass, according to Dr. Richard Ragatz, well-known real estate researcher.

“The fundamentals of the vacation home market have changed,” Ragatz stated. “The days of buying a three-million-dollar house on the beach or at a ski resort with the expectation of 20% annual appreciation are gone for the foreseeable future.”

Ragatz noted that most luxury vacation homes sit empty for the majority of the year. “In the past, owners could justify the high cost and low utilization based on a significantly higher re-sale price,” he said. “Based on recent events, it’s difficult to imagine that scenario continuing in the next few years.”

The top-tier fractional products are known as residence clubs (www.dcp-international.com). These clubs typically are expensive resort developments in which six to ten households share ownership of each residence. A club staff cares for the property and provides hotel-like services. Club reservation policies dictate use — which is unlimited, subject to use by other owners — much like tee time privileges at golf country clubs.

Dr. Ragatz and his Eugene, Oregon-based company, Ragatz Associates, have tracked the resort real estate market for many years, especially the fractional ownership (www.dcp-international.com) segment. He noted that fractional sales have increased dramatically during the past five years and grew in 2007 despite the real estate downturn. However, he expects these sales to be off in 2008.

“The financial crisis has affected every part of the real estate market,” Ragatz said. “But I believe, in the long term, recent events will enhance the attractiveness of the high-end fractional products as compared to whole ownership.”

Ragatz’s statements are echoed by Steve Dering, a pioneer of the residence club industry.

Dering is a partner in Chicago-based DCP International, a firm that has assisted real estate (www.dcp-international.com) developers in bringing more than 20 residence clubs to market in the U.S., Mexico, Bermuda, Italy and Scotland. Locations include ski, beach and golf resorts as well U.S. and European urban locations. DCP’s first project, the Deer Valley Club in Park City, Utah, opened in 1992 and has served as the prototype for the industry.

“There’s no question that our sales have slowed during this downturn,” Dering said. “However, we are now in conversations with developers, banks, and buyers of distressed properties who are positioning themselves for the turnaround.”

Dering believes there are multiple reasons why his specialized product will be the first to rebound.

“Affluent households will always want a vacation home,” Dering said. “Research shows it’s second only to college educations for their children as the most desired, big-ticket discretionary expenditure.”

“Our clubs, on average, have eight owners per residence and are designed to provide the amount of vacation time that is typical for a homeowner in the same location,” he stated. “Therefore, the use is the same as whole ownership but the purchase price is far lower. Additionally, the shared annual ownership cost is significantly less than the cost of renting a comparable luxury home multiple times a year. When you factor in the abundant amenities and a private staff that takes care everything, it’s more for less without the headaches.”

“The game changer for us as compared to whole ownership is that our buyers do not have to sell other real estate to purchase at a residence club,” Dering said. “And many do not have to finance, although financing is still available.”

Dering said the increasingly influential “green” movement is also pushing buyers his way.

“Residence club owners buy only what they need,” Dering noted. “We build one residence and satisfy eight families rather than building eight residences that would sit empty 70% of the year. We eliminate waste and have owners who feel they made the right financial and environmental decision.”

The Netherlands’ Landmark Hotel Becomes Hotel Des Indes, A Luxury Collection Hotel, The Hague

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT) announces the introduction of the Hotel Des Indes, a Luxury Collection Hotel, The Hague to The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, a glittering ensemble of more than 65 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 26 countries in bustling cities and spectacular destinations around the world. The 92-room hotel, recently renovated by world-renowned architect Jacques Garcia, is located in The Hague, the Netherlands, overlooking the city’s main square, the Lange Voorhout. Originally built as a town palace, Hotel Des Indes opened its doors as a luxury hotel in 1881 and has played host to kings, heads of state, aristocrats and celebrities.

“The Luxury Collection is a portal to the world’s most exciting and desirable destinations, offering guests unique, authentic and enriching experiences at spectacular destinations around the world,” said Paul James, Vice President, Brand Management, The Luxury Collection & St. Regis, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “Celebrated for its rich heritage, stunning design and impeccable service, the Hotel Des Indes adds another jewel to The Luxury Collection brand’s glittering portfolio.”

“This landmark hotel is the perfect addition to the Luxury Collection portfolio in The Netherlands,” said Roeland Vos, President, Europe, Africa and the Middle East, Starwood Hotels and Resorts. The Hague is an exceptional destination for a luxury property and the landmark hotel fits perfectly in one of the world’s most refined collections of premium hotels and resorts. Global travellers can expect to explore The Hague in its indigenous spirit and experience service in an exceptionally personal manner.

The historical grandeur and understated elegance of the property, together with the exceptional signature The Luxury Collection services and discrete modern technology, makes Hotel Des Indes a favourite destination in The Hague for sophisticated global explorers. The hotel underwent an extensive EUR 35 million renovation by world-renowned architect Jacques Garcia in 2006 to restore the original splendour of the 92 guest rooms, suites and public areas. Garcia’s other work includes the design of Hotel Costes in Paris, and the Hotel des Beaux-Arts, and Le Rivoli-Notre Dame in the same city. In the United States, his projects include the Hotel Victor in South Beach and Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s highly touted Spice Market.

State-of-the-art meeting facilities meet old-world grandeur at Hotel Des Indes. The hotel features ten elegant salons, boasting refined amenities for events, social functions, meetings or seminars, and can seat up to 80 guests.

The Hotel Des Indes also offers its global guests access to a luxurious 315 square metre Health Club, where personal trainers provide guidance and advice upon request. A swim can be enjoyed in the indoor heated swimming pool, followed by a steam bath, sauna, or time in the solarium. In addition spa treatments and massages, using luxury Payot products, are available to enhance well-being and relaxation.

Since 1881, the exquisite Restaurant-Lounge-Bar Des InDes has welcomed royalty, world leaders and artists from all four corners of the globe. Today, that tradition lives on in Executive Chef Ben Hardeman’s delectable epicurean creations. Hardeman trained in the three Michelin starred “Im Schiffchen” in Dusseldorf and collaborated with Parisian Chef Michel Rostang to create the innovative menu offered in the hotel’s restaurant, lounge and bar.

The award-winning hotels that make up The Luxury Collection are some of the world’s most iconic properties, including The Grande Bretagne, Athens; Hotel Marques de Riscal, Elciego; Mystique, Santorni; Hotel Danieli, Venice; The U.S. Grant, San Diego and The Phoenician, Scottsdale.

For more information on The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts, visit www.luxurycollection.com.

Wyndham Vacation Ownership Opens First Resort In Santa Fe, New Mexico

WorldMark Santa Fe becomes company’s third resort in the state

Wyndham Vacation Ownership is now welcoming guests to WorldMark Santa Fe, the company’s newest resort property in the Southwest. Operating within the company’s WorldMark, The Club portfolio, the 32-unit, boutique-style resort offers owners a quiet retreat in the center of the city. WorldMark Santa Fe marks the company’s third property in New Mexico, complementing WorldMark Taos and WorldMark Red River in Taos and Red River respectively.

“WorldMark Santa Fe is a newly designed style for our company, as it is an intimate boutique property with an authentic Southwestern ambiance that is different from any other resort in our network,” Dave Herrick, senior vice president, Hospitality Division, WorldMark by Wyndham. “Santa Fe itself is a distinctive destination and through the characteristics of the resort, which include adobe structures, Kiva fireplaces and log ceilings, the property, both inside and out, remains true to the city’s unique style.”

The property, acquired in November 2007, opens following an extensive eight-month renovation to transform the former Casa Pueblo Inn into a modern vacation ownership property yet it retains the charm of the original structures.

WorldMark Santa Fe’s distinct design offers owners an intimate setting to retire to after exploring picturesque Santa Fe. Featuring upscale furnishings, stained concrete floors, pine cabinetry and multi-colored granite throughout the property, WorldMark Santa Fe truly embodies the feel and energy of the American Southwest. The property’s 32 hotel, studio and one-bedroom well-appointed units include a variety of layouts, each with a pueblo-inspired design that reflects the colors and vibrancy of the surrounding desert. In keeping with the Southwestern feel, most units include a Kiva fireplace, which is native to the area as well as partial kitchens.

The property is located in the heart of Santa Fe, a popular destination rich with culture, tradition, beautiful scenery and outdoor adventures. WorldMark Santa Fe is conveniently located within walking distance of the city’s center as well as a number of unique art galleries and shops. Visitors can take in Santa Fe’s numerous historical sites including San Miguel Mission - the oldest active church in the United States, the local Indian pueblos and the nearby foothills of the Sangre de Christo Mountains. The city and surrounding area also lend themselves to a number of year-round, outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, golf, whitewater rafting, skiing and snowshoeing. Santa Fe’s charm, mixed with its many activities and attractions, make it a truly desirable destination for many travelers.

Hotels Maintain Service and Reduce Expenses Without Impacting the Guest Experience

Timeshares Lead Again, Airlines and Car Rental Sectors Improve; Market Metrix Announces Third Quarter YTD 2008 Hospitality Index Results

Despite economic pressures to reduce staff and services, hotel customer satisfaction for the third quarter remained flat (-0.1), maintaining near record levels for the industry according to the most recent results of the Market Metrix Hospitality Index(TM) (MMHI). Contrary to severe budget cuts and steep declines in satisfaction following the terrorist attacks of 9/11, hotel satisfaction has been nearly immune from the current financial crisis. Hotels have been able to maintain service and reduce expenses without impacting the guest experience.

Comparing Performance Across the Hospitality Industry
In the third quarter, economy, timeshare and casino segments showed the most improvement. Economy brands showing the biggest gains include Budget Host (+4.2), America’s Best Inns & Suites (+1.5), and Jameson Inns (+1.4). Timeshare brands continue to get rave customer reviews and have outscored all other hotel segments, including luxury hotels, since the first quarter of 2007. Disney Vacation Club extends its dominance in the segment with Marriott Vacation Club showing the most improvement (+1). Casinos were up slightly (+.2 to 83.1) with Borgata taking top honors and showing the most improvement (+2.5 to 88.9).

Car Rental satisfaction scores increased to their highest levels in two years (+1.3 to 81.0). Advantage (82.3) was the winning car rental brand, finishing just ahead of the perennial leader Enterprise (82.1). In 2007 Advantage ranked only 7th among all car rental brands with a score of 79.1.

Satisfaction among airlines also improved (+0.7 to 74.5). However, these scores are still at historically low levels for the industry. Airlines continue to struggle with customer satisfaction and have made matters worse with the expanding suite of fees charged for services such as in-flight meals and baggage. Midwest Airlines (85.6) was the high scoring airline, outpacing JetBlue (83.7) for the third consecutive quarter.

Top Scoring Hotel Brand
The top hotel score went to Sandals Resorts, a collection of twelve “all-inclusive” resorts in the Caribbean. Sandals guests rave about the service, “Wow, we had a butler… what a treat! A great idea!” and are enthralled by the facilities, “I loved the European decor mixed with tropical landscaping… nothing short of amazing!” According to Mr. Gordon “Butch” Stewart, chairman and founder of Sandals Resorts, “We work very hard to ensure that our guests are experiencing a top luxury product and are humbled and flattered that our ongoing efforts to modernize and improve have been recognized.”

Market Metrix Hospitality Index 2008 3rd Quarter YTD Winners

WINNER                                          SEGMENT
Hotels
Pan Pacific Hotels & Resorts         92.8       Luxury
Riu Hotels                           91.0       Upper Upscale
Sandals                              93.1       Upscale
Red Lion Hotels                      82.6       Midscale w/ F&B
Drury Inns                           91.7       Midscale w/o F&B
Jameson Inns                         87.0       Economy
Casinos
Wynn Las Vegas                       92.1       Upscale casino
Borgata                              88.9       Casino
Web Sites
Walt Disney World Resorts            88.3       Hotel Brand Web Site
Hotwire.com                          79.4       Hotel Travel Web Site
Airline
Midwest Airlines                     85.6       Airline
Car Rental
Advantage                            82.3       Car Rental
Timeshare
Disney Vacation Club                 90.6       Timeshare Accommodations
About MMHI
Based on 35,000 customer interviews conducted each quarter, the Market Metrix Hospitality Index (MMHI) is the largest and most in-depth measure of hospitality company performance available today. These benchmarks, delivered through our flagship product Customer Metrix(TM), enable Market Metrix clients to compare their results to competitors by STAR segment, AAA classification, Brand, SMSA, industry averages, performers in the top 10% and other classifications. The MMHI is also available by subscription.

About Market Metrix
Market Metrix helps hospitality companies around the world foster loyal customers and engaged employees. Based on award-winning research and breakthrough concepts, our SaaS-based products deliver instant survey results, analysis and management tools for increasing revenue and reducing staff turnover. Our benchmarking database, MMHI, is the most comprehensive, independent comparison of consumer brand satisfaction in the industry. Our annual MMHI Awards are coveted by lodging and travel enterprises around the world. With clients that include more than 120 brands across 70 countries, Market Metrix has been helping leading hospitality companies turn feedback into performance since 1996. For more information, visit www.marketmetrix.com.

Contact:
Mike Pharis
1-800-239-7515

SOURCE: Market Metrix

NetJets Middle East Introduces The Region’s First Hawker 750 at MEBA

NetJets Middle East, the largest operator of business jets in the region, is introducing a range of firsts with its debut participation at the Middle East Business Aviation (MEBA) 2008 exhibition and the introduction of its Hawker 750 aircraft, the first in the region’s aviation industry.
“NetJets Middle East is the first company in this part of the world that has this top-of-the-line aircraft in its fleet and it will be made available to our growing number of aircraft owners in the region,” said Chadi Saade Managing Director, Sales and Marketing NetJets Middle East.
The Hawker 750 is an aircraft considered as the best in its class and designed to make business travel faster, safer and luxuriously convenient at a relatively low cost. The midsize jet offer range and comfort ideal for business use and is commonly referred to as a spacious conference room in the sky, making it one of the most popular midsize business jets. NetJets Middle East Hawker 750 fleet offers stand-up headroom along the entire cabin length. It also features a full refreshment centre.
While the presence of the Hawker 750 will be the visible highlight of NetJets Middle East participation, what is equally gaining popularity among corporate and individual business travelers is the concept of fractional aircraft ownership program.
“It certainly makes travelling a lot more flexible and convenient, given the guarantee we provide to our customers to have their aircraft available within 12 hours notice. This means that the client is assured of travelling safely, globally and comfortably at very short notice, using NetJets worldwide fleet of aircraft” added Chadi.
The NetJets Middle East fleet includes 16 light, midsize and large cabin aircraft accommodating from 8 to14 passengers with flight range of up to 4,300 nautical miles. The fleet includes the world’s finest jet aircraft such as Hawker, Falcon and Gulfstream. NetJets Middle East fleet is expected to grow by 60 new aircraft, on order now, with projected delivery of one aircraft per month starting this month.
MEBA announced that the Middle East is now the world’s fastest expanding market for private jets Industry experts forecast that the region will account for $720 million of the private jet market this year. In such a highly competitive industry, the only way companies can hope to succeed is to differentiate their offers.
“What we offer is not only the largest fleet of aircraft and a team of the best trained and highly experience pilots and flight crew, but also an idea - fractional aircraft ownership - whose time has come,” added Chadi.
Corporate and individual business travelers who wish to find out more about the NJME fleet of advanced and premium aircrafts and fractional ownership can visit the company at chalet # 35 at MEBA 2008, from 16-18 November, at the Dubai Airport Expo.
NetJets Middle East is a division of National Air ServicesNational Air Services and is headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. All flights are operated by NASNAS. The NetJets Middle East fractional aircraft ownership program is affiliated with NetJets Inc. and is operated under the principles of the NetJets U.S. program created in 1986 by NetJets Inc. Chairman and CEO Richard Santulli.

For more information visit www.njme.com

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. Appoints Longtime Procter & Gamble Executive Clayton C. “Clayt” Daley, Jr. to Board of Directors

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT), one of the world’s largest hotel and leisure companies, announced today the appointment of Clayton C. Daley, Jr. to the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. Daley, 57, is currently Vice Chair and Chief Financial Officer for Procter & Gamble.

“With more than a decade of experience in the top financial position at P&G, Clayt is one of the most highly regarded CFOs in the world,” said Frits van Paasschen, Starwood’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Coupled with his impressive background in corporate strategy and planning at arguably the biggest brand powerhouse in the world, Clayt will be a tremendous asset as Starwood continues to aggressively grow our global footprint and extend the depth and breadth of our nine distinctive and compelling brands.”

Mr. Daley has spent his entire professional career with Procter & Gamble, joining the company in 1974, and has held a number of key Accounting and Finance positions including Comptroller, U.S. Operations for Procter & Gamble USA; Vice President and Comptroller of Procter & Gamble International and Vice President and Treasurer. Mr. Daley was appointed to his current position as Chief Financial Officer, Procter & Gamble in 1998 and was elected Vice Chair in 2007.

Mr. Daley’s active involvement in professional organizations and charities include the Financial Executives Institute; the Rotary Club of Cincinnati; the Board of Directors for the Boys Scouts of America, Dan Beard Council; Board of Directors for Cancer Family Care; Member, Officers Conference Group; and Member, Council of Financial Executives.

Mr. Daley, who also serves on the Board of Directors of Nucor Corporation, earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Davidson College and received his Masters of Business Administration from The Ohio State University.

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.(R)
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 900 properties in more than 100 countries and 155,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis(R), The Luxury Collection(R), W(R), Westin(R), Le Meridien(R), Sheraton(R), Four Points(R) by Sheraton, and the recently launched Aloft(SM), and Element(SM). Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com

Innseason Resorts Names Chip Rogan Vice President Of Sales

InnSeason Resorts®, creators of the Northeast Experience® and leading providers of resort vacation and ownership opportunities, recently announced the promotion of Chip Rogan to Vice President of Sales.

Rogan started with one of InnSeason’s predecessor companies in 1994 as a part-time telemarketer during his high school years. After graduating cum laude in 2000 from University of Massachusetts, Amherst, College of Business, he joined the company (at that time Curran Management Services) full-time and immediately took over the management of a 350-person telemarketing center. He relocated to InnSeason’s Pembroke office as General Manager, working first as brand standards manager and then in 2005 creating the Vacation Experience Tours. As Vice President of Sales, he will be in charge of implementing sales strategies and processes throughout company’s several Northeast sales centers.

Rogan notes, “This is a real opportunity for me. I have watched this company grow and have grown with it. Now I can make a difference strategically, directly impacting our corporate mission by implementing effective sales methods across our range of markets.”

InnSeason Resorts®, creators of the Northeast Experience®, a leading provider of resort vacation and ownership opportunities in the Northeast U.S., delivers “best-in-class” management, advisory and marketing services to resorts and developers nation-wide. For more information, visit www.InnSeason.com.

Perspective Magazine Attends World Travel Market To Cover World Responsible Tourism Day

 

At this year’s World Travel Market, The Global Event for the Travel Industry, the World Responsible Tourism Day sponsor Hacienda Tres Rios Resort, Spa & Nature Park held a seminar on How To Build A Green Hotel and Perspective Magazine was in attendence.

Orlando Arroyo, CEO of Tres Rios and a leader in the Mexican travel industry for more than two years, presented to a packed room of attendees and described the lengths his company have gone to in building this eco-friendly luxury resort on a 326 acre eco-park in the heart of the Riviera Maya. More than 150 acres of the land is being retained as a reserve, with environmentally friendly building pracices and planning for the resort to guard the surrounding beauty.

After the presentation, Orlando joined Annie Arroyo, Alma Lopez and Sigfrido Pazparedes who are all involved in the project to form a panel for the attendees to fire questions at. From here, questions such as contributing to the local community was raised, at which point it was explained that as one of the few Mexican owned family developments in the area, they employed local workers and used local materials to create the resort and for those indigenous people who live in remote villages, the resort will feature their crafts in the on-site spa and gift shop, as well as offering cultural tours and educational programs that will help preserve local cultures and encourage sustainable employment.

Both Perspective Magazine & Owners Perspective Magazine will be running special features on this development in the New Year so watch out for them, but in the meantime if you would like to know more about Hacienda Tres Rios visit http://www.haciendatresrios.com

Chairman Of “Timeshare Consumers Association” Behind Libellous Websites

The Organisation for Timeshare in Europe (OTE) welcomes the recent verdict in a libel case against Alexander (Sandy) Grey, Chairman of the self-styled “Timeshare Consumers Association, which has been consistently critical of the reputable timeshare industry.”

The High Court found that it was Sandy Grey himself who was behind the so-called “Crimeshare – Timeshare Frauds and Scams” and related Websites. The Website not only included personal attacks against employees and directors of timeshare companies and OTE, but also produced so-called “black lists” falsely incriminating reputable timeshare companies.

Even though Grey denied his involvement; the Judge – Mr Justice Eady, found that Mr Grey had published the Crimeshare website on all five of the domain names which formed the basis of the High Court claim. Grey was ordered to pay the substantial costs involved in proving his responsibility for publication.    Over a number of years Grey had denied that he was behind these sites and had even signed court documents to verify his false denials. Despite this, he continued to portray himself as an independent advisor on timeshare issues to consumers, the media and government. It is believed that up to 1.5 million individuals may have relied on his “advice” over the years.

More than 200 companies were “blacklisted” by Grey including publicly traded companies such as RCI - the timeshare vacation exchange company, the Organisation for Timeshare in Europe (OTE), to which most European developers belong and ARDA - the American Resort Developers Association.

Peter van der Mark, Secretary General of OTE said of the judgement:

“OTE is very concerned about the legitimacy of a number of private organisations set up around Europe to purportedly provide “consumer advice”. These companies have absolutely no link to the industry or to any government authority. We would advise consumers to exercise caution in dealing with any organisation that refers to the so-called Crimeshare blacklist, Mr Grey or the TCA.” 

OTE provides guidance and advice on timeshare through its website www.ote-info.com and offers a free of charge arbitration service for timeshare owners who own at OTE member resorts. Consumers may also contact TATOC – The Timeshare Association - on 0845 2302430 for further advice.

Over the past few years OTE has worked successfully with a number of different European consumer organisations, including European Consumer Centres, ConSeur in Brussels and with TATOC, to name just a few. OTE has valued and continues to value constructive comment and criticism of the timeshare industry by consumer organisations as it contributes to the maintenance of a high level of best practice for the timeshare industry. This has for example resulted in all European Consumer Centres having input into OTE’s 2005 Code of Conduct through a meeting organised by the European Commission and OTE.

OTE tried to establish cooperation with the TCA in 1999 but its Chairman Mr. Grey personally refused any cooperation. It now appears, from the judgement of the High Court on 28 October 2008, that for the past five years Mr Grey has been responsible for publishing serious and false allegations about many of the leading brands in the timeshare industry in Europe.

Club La Costa is also involved in High Court proceedings against a company over unfounded and serious allegations. It is believed that the defendant company had worked closely with Sandy Grey. High Court proceedings continue.

More about OTE:
OTE is the pan-European trade association representing the timeshare industry throughout Europe. It promotes best practice in the industry for the benefit of both consumers and the industry.  All members are bound by a code of ethics that ensures the protection of consumers’ rights.  OTE provides information and advice to consumers and offers a free conciliation service to consumers dealing with its members.

OTE represents the majority of timeshare companies in Europe which are responsible for some 65-70% of all timeshare sales. These include major hospitality groups such as De Vere, Hilton, Sol Melia, and large independent timeshare developers, namely the Petchey Leisure Group, Club La Costa, Hapimag and Seasons Holidays.

New ARDA Committee Formed: Margit Whitlock AIA To Chair

Margit Whitlock, AIA, Principal of Architectural Concepts, Inc. (ACI) a San Diego firm regarded as one of the top hospitality-oriented architectural and interior design firms, has been selected to chair the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) Design and Construction Committee.  The new committee will hold its first meeting the second week in November at the trade association’s fall conference in Washington D.C.

ACI has been honored with numerous awards including the ARDY for Resort Design for Cibola Vista Resort and Spa (Peoria, Arizona) and Club Regina Resorts (Cancun and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico) for Resort Design — Refurbishment. The ARDY is one of the trade association’s top awards. Last year the firm was also the recipient of the prestigious ARDA ACE Community Service Award for its benefit for San Diego’s Habitat for Humanity.

Margit Whitlock, AIA principal of the architectural firm, said “we’ve been talking about forming this specialty committee within ARDA for a few years now. I am honored to spearhead the cause and excited about the possibilities of the impact we can make on the resort development industry as well as many legislative parameters which affect our developers.   We are currently recruiting members who come from the architecture and design community within ARDA and are looking forward to our kick off event on November 13.”

ARDA Members interested in being on the committee may contact Margit Whitlock at margit@4designs.com or call 619-531-0110.  For more information they may also refer to www.arda.org

AT&T To Acquire Wayport; Combined Wi-Fi Networks To Provide Connectivity In More Places

Millions of AT&T Customers to Get Free Wi-Fi Access at Nearly 20,000 U.S. Hotspots

AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) announced today that it has agreed, through one of its subsidiaries, to acquire privately-held Wayport, Inc., a leading provider of managed Wi-Fi services in the United States, for approximately $275 million in cash. The deal adds Wayport’s focused capabilities and enterprise customer portfolio with AT&T’s leading Internet Protocol (IP) and 3G networks, and broad consumer and business customer bases, to deliver enhanced broadband connectivity at home, in the office, on the road, and virtually anywhere in between.

The acquisition expands the AT&T Wi-FiSM footprint to nearly 20,000 domestic hotspots, takes the company’s global Wi-Fi presence to more than 80,000 locations*, and creates thousands of new ways for customers worldwide to stay in touch. Millions of AT&T customers – plus millions of other consumers needing to connect on the go – will benefit from access to new hotspot locations served by Wayport. Wayport hotspots are in key locations, including select Wyndham, Marriott Vacation Club and Four Seasons hotels; HealthSouth and Sun Healthcare locations; plus McDonald’s restaurants. 

AT&T’s global brand, marketing leadership and extensive enterprise sales force will complement Wayport’s expertise in enabling and managing applications over an integrated network. Wayport will also extend AT&T’s reach in the hospitality, health care, education and retail sectors.

“We’re seeing exponential growth of Wi-Fi-enabled devices — such as smartphones — combined with a continued dependency on 24/7, anytime, anywhere Internet access across business and consumer market segments,” said John Stankey, president and CEO, AT&T Operations. “Now is the right time for AT&T to affirm our commitment to Wi-Fi leadership. By acquiring Wayport, we’re giving consumers more ways to stay in touch and building a more robust network management solution for businesses. We’re bringing ready access to the nation’s leading Wi-Fi, wireless and IP networks — on a global scale.”

Delivering Greater Value to Consumers
More than ever before, customers worldwide are using AT&T’s expansive network to serve today’s growing demand for more connectivity in more places – which is driven by the proliferation of Wi-Fi-enabled devices. 

This acquisition enhances AT&T’s Wi-Fi presence in the United States, and it delivers a seamless, consistent communications experience to customers at home or on the go — from one company.

• Nearly 300 million Wi-Fi-enabled devices were shipped in 2007. Nearly 1 billion are predicted by 2012.* *
• With the surge of Wi-Fi-enabled devices, such as smartphones, portable computers, gaming devices and cameras, more consumers can enjoy the benefits of anytime, anywhere access from the nation’s largest Wi-Fi network.
• A broader and deeper AT&T Wi-Fi network means more free connectivity for millions of AT&T customers, including select AT&T smartphone customers, AT&T LaptopConnect customers and AT&T High Speed Internet (including U-verseSM) subscribers.

Providing Solutions for Enterprise Customers

The acquisition complements AT&T’s ability to deliver a complete end-to-end solution for businesses worldwide with Wayport’s experience in facilitating business applications and managing public access to the Internet over a single network. As Wayport currently provides back-office management for AT&T’s Wi-Fi Hot Spots, the acquisition expands such capabilities and brings management of Wi-Fi infrastructure completely under AT&T management.

The combined company will be able to deliver a more cost-effective and streamlined solution for enterprises – and their customers – by providing more anytime, anywhere access to end-user applications. Plus, with both the back-office infrastructure and end-user content application managed by one company, businesses can reduce operating costs, enhance and customize their customers’ experience and reach more customers in new innovative ways.

• AT&T will provide a comprehensive solution for businesses seeking converged and managed network capabilities – on one network – with global reach, while also bringing ready access to the nation’s largest Wi-Fi, wireless and leading global IP network.
• Enterprise customers will be able to better utilize private-side applications – effectively managing costs and increasing productivity levels – including inventory management, remote employee learning, point-of-sale applications and remote security monitoring.
• A unified solution will drive new business partnerships, leveraging AT&T’s unique, innovative services and applications available to enterprise customers.
• Enterprise customers will benefit from new, revenue-generating opportunities with AT&T’s ability to bring customized, location-based messaging and advertising to more touch points – via a streamlined Wi-Fi solution – reaching more end-users. 

“AT&T’s premier capabilities in both the enterprise and consumer industries will take Wayport’s strength in delivering Wi-Fi solutions over converged networks to an entirely new level,” said Dave Vucina, chairman and chief executive officer of Wayport.
“AT&T’s ability to reach and service tens of millions of customers will greatly expand the value we currently bring to our customers.  As part of AT&T, we’ll bring new and better solutions to our customers on a global scale, with greater reach and more innovative services.”

The transaction is expected to close as early as the fourth quarter of 2008.
* Including roaming locations
** In-Stat, 2008. 

About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates, AT&T operating companies, are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. Among their offerings are the world’s most advanced IP-based business communications services and the nation’s leading wireless, high speed Internet access and voice services. In domestic markets, AT&T is known for the directory publishing and advertising sales leadership of its Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations, and the AT&T brand is licensed to innovators in such fields as communications equipment. As part of its three-screen integration strategy, AT&T is expanding its TV entertainment offerings. In 2008, AT&T again ranked No. 1 on Fortune magazine’s World’s Most Admired Telecommunications Company list and No. 1 on America’s Most Admired Telecommunications Company list. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com.

© 2008 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

About Wayport, Inc.
Founded in 1996, Wayport enables breakthrough public and private applications over an integrated network platform which creates new business opportunities and operational efficiencies. Wayport serves notable brands in a variety of vertical markets, including AT&T customers through a managed service agreement. Wayport helps clients create new business capabilities and improve operational efficiencies at premier venues including major hotels, hospitals, McDonald’s and Hertz locations, and other retail brands worldwide. Wayport’s investors include Sevin Rosen Funds, INVESCO Private Capital, New Enterprise Associates, Scale Venture Partners, Trellis Partners, Advanced Equities, Inc., Lucent Venture Partners, GC Technology Fund, Sanders Morris Harris, Star Ventures and GIC.

Interval International Affiliates Villaggio Cala La Luna

Sicilian Resort Joins Quality Exchange Network

Interval International, a leading provider of vacation services, has announced the affiliation of Villaggio Cala La Luna situated on the small island of Favignana just off the west coast of Sicily, Italy. 

The development which was completed in May 2008 comprises of 70 units, with a mix of studios, one- and two- bedroom units out of which 58 are allocated to timeshare. The resort features an outdoor pool, restaurant and live entertainment. It is also within walking distance of the lively harbour where fresh lobster and octopus can be bought every morning.

“Good quality resorts such as this are in popular demand with our members and we are delighted to welcome this resort to our network,” says Darren Ettridge, Interval International’s vice president resort sales and service (Europe). “This is our fifth affiliation in Italy since July 2007 and it is continued evidence of Interval’s success in the region.”

Villaggio Cala La Luna is situated in the fishing village of Favignana which is admired for its beauty and crystal clear waters. The island offers a wide range of leisure activities including diving, deep-sea fishing, shopping, nightlife and good food. Sailing is also a major attraction and Favignana hosted the America’s Cup in 2008.

An Unprecedented Partnership Capella Pedregal Aligns with Ultimate Escapes Offering Owners Exclusive Access to Resort Destina

Capella Pedregal, Cabo’ss hottest new resort and residential community, just got a little hotter. In a new, unprecedented alliance with luxury destination club Ultimate Escapes’s174;, owners at Capella Pedregal now have access to residences at 23 fabulous resort and metropolitan destinations around the globe.

We are proud and excited to be the first private residence club to partner with a destination club, said Juan Diaz Rivera, marketing director, Capella Pedregal. This unprecedented partnership is offering owners at Capella Pedregal an opportunity to build equity by owning real estate in Cabo, while providing them with access to Ultimate Escape’ss global portfolio of properties through Ultimate Escapes Developer Affiliate Program - it’ss the best of both worlds.

Amenities at Capella Pedregal include fractional ownership in a luxury Viking yacht at the Capella Yacht Club, access to all of the amenities of the Capella Resort and Spa to open on-site in March 2009 and a prime location on 24 acres of pristine beach. The Ultimate Escapes Developer Affiliate Program is another unique amenity that gives current and prospective owners the opportunity to enjoy vacations at Ultimate Escapes destinations worldwide including luxurious mountain and ski spots such as Deer Valley and Beaver Creek, major metropolitan cities including New York, Paris and London, golf destinations like Tuscany and Scottsdale and beach resorts from Belize to the British Virgin Islands.

Cabo San Lucas is the most sought after vacation destination for our members, said Gregg Amonette, senior vice president, Business Development for Ultimate Escapes. We’sre thrilled to align ourselves with a property of this caliber and are confident that Capella Pedregal will become a highly desired destination for our members.

Set to debut in March 2009, Capella Pedregal is Capella Hotels and Resorts’s preeminent beachfront resort and residential community. Accessed via a private mountainside tunnel, Capella Pedregal will be comprised of a 66-room Capella Resort and Spa, 38 shared-ownership Capella Residences and 11 private, full-ownership Casonas. The only luxury hotel and residence resort with immediate proximity to the world-class Cabo Marina, Capella Pedregal offers its owners and guests unprecedented access to a fleet of luxury Viking sport fishers and cruisers at the Capella Yacht Club. Resort guests and residents will enjoy amenities including a 10,000-square-foot Sylvia Sepielli-designed signature Auriga spa and wellness center; their own personal majordomo; and attendance by Capella’ss signature Personal Assistants who are on hand to arrange anything from dining reservations to yacht excursions and access to Cabo’ss many attractions.

For more information on Capella Pedregal, please call (866) 956-7222 or visit www.capellacabo.com.
About Ultimate Escapes’s174;:
Ultimate Escapes’s174; is the combination of two powerful brands: Ultimate Resort’s174; and Private Escapes’s174;. Members enjoy access to more than 140 private residences and over 130 affiliated properties in more than 150 locations worldwide. Locations range from chic urban residences to charming beach villas, spacious five-bedroom homes to an 80-foot private yacht. The Ultimate Escapes’s174; brand is about delivering memorable, luxury travel experiences to Members who place great value on spending quality time with their family and friends. Additional information can be found at www.ultimateescapes.com.

Capella Hotels and Resorts serves today’ss top-tier travelers and residential property owners and is setting a new standard in the hospitality industry. Capella promises the unique benefits of the finest boutique hotels, including superb architecture and interior design, privacy, individualized service and attention to detail - combined with the amenities and activities of the world’ss great luxury hotels and resorts. Capella, led by founder Horst Schulze, is a brand focused on customer choice, and offers choices that no other hotel company in the world can match. Capella is opening world-class properties in gateway cities and high-profile resort destinations around the world, including: Breidenbacher Hof, a Capella Hotel (D’s252;sseldorf, Germany); Capella Bahia Maroma (Riviera Maya, Mexico); Capella Dunboy Castle (Castletownbere, Ireland); Capella Ixtapa (Ixtapa, Mexico); Capella Niseko (Niseko, Japan); Capella Pedregal (Cabo San Lucas, Mexico); Capella Singapore (Sentosa Island, Singapore); Capella Telluride (Telluride, Colorado); and Schloss Velden, a Capella Hotel (Velden, Austria). Learn more at www.capellahotels.com.

Source: http://www.fractionalownershipmagazine.com/an-unprecedented-partnership-capella-pedregal-aligns-with-ultimate-escapes-offering-owners-exclusive-access-to-resort-destina/

St. Regis Makes Landmark Debut in Latin America with the Opening of The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort