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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*Estimates do not include buyer’s premium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Helping guests make connections at more than 400 hotels in 75 countries around the world, Sheraton is revitalizing its iconic brand while continuing its aggressive international expansion by adding 54 hotels and 20,000 guestrooms by 2009. Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with approximately 900 properties in more than 100 countries and 155,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched AloftSM, and ElementSM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About St. Regis Hotels & Resorts
Combining timeless sophistication with modern luxury, the St. Regis brand is uncompromising in its commitment to excellence. Founded by John Jacob Astor with the landmark St. Regis Hotel, New York over a century ago, St. Regis is known for delivering an unrivaled dimension of luxury, bespoke service and refined elegance at the best addresses in the world. The brand plans to further its legacy globally and will unveil highly anticipated St. Regis properties in Atlanta-Buckhead, Baha Mar, The Bahamas, Bahia Beach, Puerto Rico, Bal Harbour and Deer Crest in North America, and in Buenos Aires, Costa Rica, Mexico City and Punta Mita in Latin America. In Asia, St. Regis has announced plans to open properties in Bangkok, Jakarta, Lhasa, Kuala Lumpur, Macao, Osaka and Tianjin. In the Middle East, St. Regis will expand in Cairo, Doha, Dubai, and Bahrain. Personalized service and amenities, enviable locations and luxuriously localized design are recognized worldwide as hallmarks of the St. Regis experience. For more information on St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, please visit www.stregis.com.

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

Future accommodations are rooted in Walt Disney World history

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Montana’s Private Residence Club Forms New Position

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

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

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

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

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

Lauren Ellingson makes her home in Bozeman, Montana.

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

The new consumer magazine for existing owners and prospective buyers of fractional ownership properties and other shared ownership travel products has confirmed that they will be exhibiting and distributing at 6 major travel shows in 2009 with a combined reach of around 250,000 visitors.

Owners Perspective Magazine due for launch in print in January 2009, has been trialling its publication online since July 2007 and has already generated a subscription base of more than 7,400 readers from the first three editions.

The independent publication concentrates on the ownership of high end fractional, private residence club, destination club and timeshare products, with its success largely attributed to the fact that its publisher, Perspective International Ltd also produces the most read independent business to business magazine for the same industry globally and therefore has an existing and extensive client list and deep rooted knowledge of the industry and trends, past, present and future.

“The aim of Owners Perspective Magazine is two-fold” says company CEO, Paul Mattimoe; “We want to provide a resource for existing owners of fractional properties, boats, jets, cars etc which we have found has been in great demand recently but not yet fulfilled, but then we also want to utilise our strengths in marketing and media and offer this magazine as an independent guide to those considering a purchase in the near future, which is ideal for luxury holidaymakers and prospective second homeowners. Exhibiting at high profile major travel shows within the UK is the first part of our strategy to educate vacationers on the latest travel trends and products now gaining popularity around the world. ”

Unlike most magazines, although the print version is available by paid subscription, the full version can be viewed online free of charge, along with a wealth of hints, tips, advice and destination guides in the online member’s area.

For more information visit www.ownersperspective.com

Nearly half a million land and recreational listings from LandWatch.com now available on BullsandBeavers.com

Bulls & Beavers, LLC, a leading provider of outdoor-related news and services, and SecondSpace, Inc., the leading global online marketplace for second homes and recreational retreats, today announced a new co-branded Web site featuring ranches, land and recreation properties from around the world. The site integrates one of SecondSpace’s flagship properties, LandWatch.com, with BullsandBeavers.com. Nearly half a million properties from Landwatch.com can now be viewed through the co-branded web site.

“We designed BullsandBeavers.com to be the ultimate resource for people with a passion for the outdoor lifestyle,” said Chris Burget, President of Bulls & Beavers LLC. “By adding the world’s largest selection of land and rural properties into our Web site, we are one step closer to fulfilling our mission.”

The new site, now available at BullsandBeavers.com, is powered by SecondSpace’s highly scalable Web platform and an intelligent listings switch which sorts more than 1.5 million property listings to determine those that uniquely match the “sportsman” lifestyle. For Bullsandbeavers.com, SecondSpace has customized its data base of lifestyle properties to feature a full spectrum of searchable ranch properties, luxury mountain retreats, land, and fishing and hunting properties in more than 60 countries.

“Bulls & Beavers LLC aims to deliver the ‘Best of the Best’ in their online offerings,” said Rob Ledebur, Strategic Partnership Manager for SecondSpace. “Now, in addition to finding the best of outdoor life and sporting information, those seeking the perfect ranch or recreation property can search a broad range of options directly through the Web site.”

Ranch brokers and land specialists who wish to feature their properties on the new BullsandBeavers.com “Land for Sale” Web site can contact Sales@LandWatch.com for details and pricing information.

About Bulls and Beavers LLC
Bulls & Beavers was founded in 2007 to serve as an online community for those passionate about the outdoors. Through a combination of expert editorial and user-generated content, Bulls & Beavers brings the “Best of the Best” to you. Bullsandbeavers.com is the online premier resource for outdoor enthusiasts, with all the fishing, hunting and firearm news, useful resources and valuable services in one central location.

About SecondSpace
SecondSpace, Inc. (http://www.SecondSpace.com) is an online services company operating a network of highly immersive Web sites that enable people to make the most of the “second home” lifestyle. The company’s sites include ResortScape.com (http://www.ResortScape.com), LandWatch.com (http://www.LandWatch.com), and a fast-growing network of international and co-branded sites that connect out-of-region buyers with knowledgeable professionals who have a local presence in thousands of rural and resort communities across the Americas and around the world. SecondSpace’s sites are powered by the company’s innovative, patent-pending Lifestyle Search & Discovery™ platform. The company is headquartered in Bellevue, WA, USA and led by a team of internet veterans with backgrounds from Amazon.com, American Express, Classmates.com, IMDb, Microsoft, VeriSign, Trendwest and other leading companies.

Dial An Exchange (DAE), internationally known for providing exceptional customer service, has identified a need within the family of timeshare owners for a program that will enable them to become more knowledgeable about their purchase, the timeshare industry and their owner benefits.
Their solution was the creation of the “Vacation Education” for Timeshare Owners seminars, which will be launched in October in Phoenix, Arizona and will be presented “live” to other markets with high concentrations of timeshare owners beginning in 2009.

The complimentary Vacation Education seminars are geared specifically to helping timeshare owners better utilize their existing vacation time. Seminars will cover the basics of timeshare ownership, effective utilization of their purchase, renting, reselling and other options of which they may not be aware. No sales presentations will be given.

Event host Dial An Exchange will discuss the benefits of effectively exchanging a timeshare week and determining other use options. Speakers will include Lisa Ann Schreier, author of “Timeshare Vacations For Dummies” and founder of Timeshare Insights; Randy Conrads, CEO and President of Redweek.com; Francis Taylor, CEO and Co-founder of Dial An Exchange; Jerry Sikes, Chairman of ARDA Arizona and President of Pro Management; and Clark Rowley, Director of Marketing, Scottsdale Camelback Resort. Companies participating in the seminars will include Dial An Exchange, “TimeSharing Today” magazine, as well as others.

“Dial An Exchange has long been aware of the need for new as well as seasoned timeshare vacation owners to have a better understanding of their purchase and how to leverage their ownership,” says Jacque Duhame, Marketing Specialist for Dial An Exchange. “Although some resorts have a strong owner services department to provide guidance long after the sale, in other cases, frustration may exist when the only information they received was at the time of their initial purchase. This could have been many years ago and may not be current data to enable them to manage their ownership today.”

Dial An Exchange will be hosting two Vacation Education seminars for timeshare owners on Saturday, October 18th from 2:30-4:30 p.m., at the Town of Gilbert’s Southeast Regional Library and on Wednesday, October 22nd from 6:30-8:30 p.m., at the Rio Vista Community Center in Peoria, Arizona. The seminars will last about two hours and will support a lengthy Q&A session for attendees to obtain the most benefits from each session. Each attendee will receive a free gift for attending. Space is limited and RSVPs are required by calling 866-905-8656.

Directions. The Town of Gilbert’s Southeast Regional Library is located at 775 North Greenfield Road at the Southeast corner of Guadalupe and Greenfield Roads. Rio Vista Recreation Center is located at, 8866 West Thunderbird Road, Peoria AZ, just ¼ mile inside Rio Vista Park, on Rio Vista Blvd, north of Thunderbird Road.

About DAE (Dial An Exchange)
Dial An Exchange is a full service, worldwide exchange company that has been in the business of supporting timeshare owners for over ten years. With offices in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Asia, the United Kingdom and now in Phoenix Arizona. Dial An Exchange’s website is www.daelive.com.

Hospitality Purchasing Company Completes Installation at Pensacola Sales Center

Resort ProSource,  a full service purchasing company for the hospitality industry has announced the completion of The Island Empress Sales Center with installation of furnishing, fixtures and equipment for a Luxury Hotel / Fractional Tower in Pensacola, Florida.     The Island Empress Resort Sales Center (Pensacola, FL) will be open in October.  

Jessica Espinosa, Director of Purchasing, Resort ProSource said, “We were able to save the client 10% of their furniture budget by utilizing our community of manufacturers which in turn allowed the developer to spend more money on otherwise non-budgeted items.  My team did a phenomenal job of quality control while reducing the cost.”

In the 2007-2008 season San Diego-based Resort ProSource purchased over $5 million dollars of quality and luxury products from sources around the world. Specializing in sourcing value driven quality products, the company provides FFE purchasing services for high-end ground-up projects, as well as major renovations of existing properties.   

Resort ProSource (RPS) provides quality professional purchasing services for resorts, timeshares, fractionals, hotels, restaurants and spas.  RPS’ Principal, Margit Whitlock AIA, is a licensed architect in California, Florida, Arizona, Nevada, Florida and Texas. The firm is located at 3015 St. Charles Street, Suite B, San Diego, CA 92110.  www.resortprosource.com   For more information about call 619-531-011

Bluegreen Corporation (NYSE: BXG) (“Bluegreen”), a leading provider of Colorful Places to Live and Play®, announced today that it has agreed to extend until November 15,

2008 the period during which Diamond Resorts International has an exclusive right of negotiation to acquire all of the Bluegreen common stock at a price of $15 per share. The parties have agreed to continue to work to reach a definitive agreement for the acquisition of Bluegreen at the earliest possible time.

Alan B. Levan, Chairman of the Board of Bluegreen commented, “Diamond Resorts has advised us that it is continuing to move forward with the acquisition of the Company at a price of $15 per share, but needs the additional period to finalize due diligence and its financing arrangements.  Diamond Resorts has also agreed to pay us an amount approximating Bluegreen’s expenses in connection with the transaction.”

As previously announced, it is anticipated that the definitive agreement will include a “go-shop” provision permitting Bluegreen to actively seek alternative transactions which would provide greater value to its shareholders.  Bluegreen is engaging a financial advisor to assist in this process.

The parties have agreed that if, notwithstanding their efforts, a definitive agreement is not reached by November 15, 2008, they will continue to work towards such agreement until December 15, 2008, but that during such period Diamond Resorts will no longer have an exclusive right of negotiation and Bluegreen may actively seek and negotiate alternative transactions. 

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

merica’s premier destination mountain resort, Westgate Park City Resort & Spa, has opened the doors to a highly anticipated expansion that includes the all-new Bison Lodge and Moose Lodge. Completion of this project brings the number of keys at Westgate Park City Resort & Spa to 488, making the resort the largest in the Park City area.

The new lodges at Westgate Park City Resort & Spa include a variety of spacious 1-, 2-, and 4-bedroom floor plans. These luxury units feature granite countertops, high-end leather furnishings, jetted spas, granite steam showers, stone fireplaces and private balconies. The new lodge buildings also add over 6,000 square feet of conference space, 12,000 square feet of retail space, an outdoor pool and spa, and an indoor relaxation pool and spa area complete with steam and sauna rooms. These new amenities complement Westgate’s “30 Amazing Amenities” program that already includes a 20,000 square foot destination spa, an Olympic-sized indoor/outdoor pool, and the Westgate Grill, hailed as one of the premier restaurants in the Park City area. Westgate Park City Resort and Spa has also been previously recognized by Expedia® users as one of the top 10 resorts in the country for customer service.

The new lodges have limited availability for families seeking timeshare or full-ownership real estate opportunities at a luxury ski-in/ski-out destination with unparalleled amenities.

The opening of the new lodges this summer coincides with the sale of The Canyons® to Talisker Corporation, a luxury real estate investment and development company with resorts in Canada, the United Kingdom, Eastern Europe and the US. Talisker Corporation successfully closed on its acquisition of The Canyons® resort in late June. Talisker has also invested in Deer Valley, another popular Park City resort. The future of The Canyons® has never been better.

David Siegel, Founder and CEO of Westgate Resorts, states, “We’re thrilled to finally welcome our owners and guests to the new lodges at Westgate Park City Resort & Spa, a project that is turning out to be even more exciting due to the Talisker acquisition. Now that our expansion is complete, we’re looking forward to showing it off during the upcoming ski season.”

Westgate Park City Resort & Spa is located at 3000 The Canyons Resort Drive, Park City, UT 84098.

About Westgate Resorts:
With 28 resorts and over 450,000 owners worldwide, Westgate Resorts is the largest privately owned timeshare company in the world and one of the largest resort developers in the United States. Founded in 1982 by David A. Siegel, Westgate Resorts provides affordable luxury vacation accommodations and exchange opportunities through exclusive affiliation with Interval International, which offers worldwide travel solutions at over 2,000 resorts in over 65 countries. More information is available at www.westgatedestinations.com.

Owners Perspective Magazine, the consumer publication for existing owners and prospective buyers of fractional ownership, timeshare, destination club and private residence club products has begun plans to reach more than 250,000 holidaymakers and potential second homeowners in 2009.

Published by Perspective International Ltd, this new consumer magazine for owners and potential buyers of all shared leisure products has already begun to impress the industry with its online version, having generated more than 7,400 subscribers by the release of its third edition, but with a print version becoming ever closer, the company has announced even bigger plans for the publication.

In January 2009, the first print edition will be released and as well as always being available online free of charge and distributed to paying print subscribers it will also be distributed at a major holiday and travel show at Earls Court, London in early February; and then later in the month the February edition will be distributed at the same show at the NEC, Birmingham (UK).

This is the first exhibition to be announced in a series of travel and property shows planned for the magazine, which combined with other marketing deals should provide a reach of more than 250,000 consumers before the year is out.

Paul Mattimoe, CEO of Perspective International Ltd commented; “We will always easily be able to cater for the existing owners; systems are already in place and our subscription base will grow exponentially because of them, but we also have the opportunity to do the industry as a whole some good here, and take a high quality, unique publication, promoting fractional ownership, timeshare and more into the mainstream travel shows across Europe, USA, and Asia and help raise the profile and exposure of this kind of vacation option.”

To view the online version of Owners Perspective Magazine visit www.ownersperspective.com

For more information on Owners Perspective Magazine:
Email sharon@perspectiveinternational.com
or call +1 407 792 2343 (USA) or +44 7775 607 903 (UK)

Greenhill Skiing & Wellness Club

Greenhill Skiing & Wellness Club Joins The Quality Exchange Network

Interval International, a leading provider of vacation services, has announced the affiliation of Greenhill Skiing & Wellness Club, the first timeshare resort in Slovakia.

“While this is the first resort in Slovakia, this is the fifth affiliation in Eastern Europe in the past 12 months and is a further example of our continued success in the region,” says Darren Ettridge, Interval International’s vice president resort sales and service (Europe). “Timeshare is proving to be a popular concept in central and Eastern Europe and this is evidenced by the growth in the number of resorts.”

Located in the popular Slovakian vacation destination of Donovaly, the stylish new timeshare resort with spa facilities is scheduled to open in December 2009. The resort is being developed by Greenhill Investment, a Slovakian development company and will have 40 timeshare apartments on completion.

Donovaly is a part of Low Tatras National Park, and is one of the biggest ski resorts in Slovakia. It is also renowned for its annual dogsled racing championships.

“We are delighted to have affiliated the very first timeshare resort in Slovakia“, says Joachim Mezger, Interval’s director of sales for Europe. “This is an excellent new property with good wellness facilities and it will be attractive to our members in central and Eastern Europe.”

Interval International operates membership programmes for vacation owners and provides value-added services to its developer clients worldwide. Based in Miami, Florida, the company has been a pioneer and innovator in serving the vacation ownership market for more than 30 years. Today, Interval has a network of over 2,400 resorts in excess of 75 countries and offers its resort clients and nearly 2 million member families high-quality products and programs through 28 offices in 17 countries. Interval is an operating segment of Interval Leisure Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: IILG), a leading global provider of membership and leisure services to consumers and business-to-business customers in the vacation industry.

Shakespeare Classic Line has chosen Merlin Software for Vacation Ownership as their new software provider.

Shakespeare owns and operates specialised narrow boats for shared ownership use in the UK.  The boats are utilised by the more adventurous shared owner wanting to cruise the canals of central England.  The company was looking for an affordable yet complete software package that could control and manage all aspects of their dynamic business.

Dave Evans MD of Shakespeare Classic Line said, “We are an expanding business with our member database growing by the day. We believe that Merlin will enable us to keep better control of our management fee collections, reservations and client details, for all of our resorts, without having to enter data on several databases.”

Merlin Software was founded and is managed by Mike Pnematicatos, a veteran of the vacation ownership industry.  Merlin caters for all vacation and shared ownership products and has full multi currency capabilities.  All data can be accessed in real time from multiple locations around the world using inexpensive internet connectivity.

Martine Pnematicatos, Merlin’s European Operations Director said: ”Merlin’s multi functional capabilities and ease-of-use is the perfect match for Shakespeare Classic Line.  Merlin will enable management to control all aspects of their unique and interesting shared ownership concept from scheduling and tracking vessel maintenance to booking reservations and recording the numerous financial transactions associated with a comprehensive operation such as this.”

About Shakespeare Classic Line
About Shakespeare Classic Line’s narrow boats are situated at the beautiful Barton Turns Marina, (county), England.  They are available in 4, 6 or 8 berths and come complete with on-site training, fully equipped galleys and an extensive inventory list.  Shakespeare Classic Line can be contacted on 01926 844 222 or emailed on sales@narrowboats.uki.net. Their website is www.narrow-boats.uki.net

About Merlin Software for Vacation Ownership
Merlin’s total business solution comprises of a number of modules including Sales, Marketing, Front Office, Back Office and an integrated accounting package.  It is unique in that it is served over the internet and uses intelligent business logic to streamline, manage and market all forms of vacation ownership. For more information go to www.quickmerlin.com or email info@quickmerlin.com.

Resort to Resort, an exclusive Homeowner exchange network developed by Intrawest, announced today that it has partnered with Palmetto Bay in Maya Beach, Belize.

Palmetto Bay Resort at Maya Beach, a secluded tropical hideaway in Southern Belize situated on 16-miles of white sand beaches and complemented by stunning scenery of the Maya Mountains. Palmetto Bay will introduce unprecedented luxury real estate and Four Star amenities to the Placencia Peninsula of Southern Belize, and will be the first development in the Caribbean designed ‘green’ from inception.

Designer Julieanne Dobson–renown work on Francis Ford Coppola’s Turtle Inn– will create the interiors and intimate outdoor settings with use of the finest natural materials, including warm woods and natural stone, vibrant contemporary textiles, and niche lit Mayan and African inspired art.

“We are thrilled to have Palmetto Bay join our network of exchange properties. ” says Dean Kneider – Director of Resort to Resort “As resort real estate continues to grow and value added partnerships like these are offered, resort home owners get an opportunity to expand their vacation possibilities with Palmetto Bay in Belize.”

“Palmetto Bay is extremely excited to be chosen as the first development in Belize to be a part of the esteemed Resort to Resort exchange program and partner with Intrawest” says Beyond the Buildings Ltd., sales and marketing principal Dave Bauman. “We look forward to hosting Resort to Resort members at our property and providing them with exceptional vacation experiences in Belize.

About Palmetto Bay
Palmetto Bay Resort at Maya Beach, a secluded tropical hideaway in Southern Belize situated on 16-miles of white sand beaches and complemented by stunning scenery of the Maya Mountains. Palmetto Bay will introduce unprecedented luxury real estate and Four Star amenities to the Placencia Peninsula of Southern Belize, and will be the first development in the Caribbean designed ‘green’ from inception.
http://www.palmettobayresort.com

About Resort to Resort
Resort to Resort is an exclusive Homeowner exchange network developed by Intrawest. It’s comprised of select whole ownership, fractional and condo hotel real estate developments at Intrawest resorts and a portfolio of carefully selected partner resorts.
For more information, visit Resort to Resort online: www.resort2resort.com

About Intrawest
Intrawest is a world leader in experiential destination resorts. The company has interests in ten resorts at North America’s most popular mountain destinations including Whistler Blackcomb, a host venue for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The Intrawest network also includes Canadian Mountain Holidays, the largest heli-skiing operation in the world, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Florida and Club Intrawest–a private resort club with locations throughout North America. In addition, Intrawest develops real estate at its resorts and at other locations across North America and in Europe. Intrawest is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia. For more information, visit www.intrawest.com

The island of Barbados is a little greener after Divi Southwinds Beach Resort (www.diviresorts.com/DiviSouthwinds/index.htm) was certified as a Green Hotel –  the first property in Barbados to receive the designation.  Divi Southwinds management was notified of its new status on July 15, 2008.  Green Hotel Certification is the independent review process for the hospitality industry based on internationally known environmental, energy and corporate social responsibility guidelines.  According to Alvin Jemmott, general manager, “The resort exceeded the minimum number of requirements to earn certification, but this is just the beginning.  We are taking steps to become greener everyday.” 

Among the changes Divi Southwinds already has enacted are the elimination of polystyrene foam, the adoption of 72-hour biodegradable materials, an increase in recycling of bottles, paper, ink cartridges and boxes as well as an improved system of separating recyclables, and the installation of low flow toilets and showerheads.  Garden waste now is being used as compost rather than carted to a landfill.  Divi Southwinds also reduced the level of harmful chemicals released into the ocean by switching to ionizers and cutting the use of chlorine in their pools by 50 percent.  Replacing incandescent lights with energy saving bulbs has significantly reduced kilowatt hours and operating costs per occupied room without compromising the vacation experience for guests.

E.J. Schanfarber, Divi Resorts president, indicated that a continual review of the hotel’s environmental practices is a strategic management direction.  “Our Barbados clientele, evenly split between Europe and the North American market, is increasingly attuned to the health of the planet and basing their hotel selection on environmental standards.  Today, it is imperative for a hotel to evidence environmental sensitivity.”

The process for certification began with the naming of an environmental officer, Audrey Smith, who assembled a “Green Team” of seventeen employees from all hotel departments at Divi Southwinds. The goal of the team is to raise internal awareness for Divi’s green movement among the various stakeholders in the environmental effort, including guests. 

The Green Team wears a special green uniform on Mondays, lending potency and visibility to the effort.  The hotel is marketing its new Green Hotel Certification status on its Web site and in materials throughout the resort complex to encourage guest participation as well as additional earth-friendly practices.

“Becoming a Green Certified Hotel is a great pleasure for us because of the recognition but also for what we are doing for the environment and the Barbados community,” said Jemmott.  “Barbados is a small island and this is an important step in preserving the beauty of our island.”

About Divi Resorts:
Divi Resorts is the vacation expert of the Caribbean with a collection of nine premium resorts on six stunning Caribbean islands. With vacation stays as well as full and fractional ownership, the resorts provide myriad vacation pleasures from relaxing on white sand beaches and indulging in spa services to embarking on scuba diving adventures and perfecting one’s golf swing.  For more information on Divi Resorts call 1-800-367-3484, or visit www.diviresorts.com.