Developed by Barry Real Estate, W Atlanta-Downtown Introduces Atlanta’s First BLT Steak and DRINKSHOP, a Cool Signature Cocktail Bar by New York-based Master Mixologist Sasha Petraske and a Private Helipad for Guests on the Go

W Hotels Worldwide, the hotel category buster and industry innovator, proudly unveils the new W Atlanta-Downtown and The Residences at W Atlanta-Downtown. Ideally located in the heart of Atlanta, W Atlanta-Downtown offers a whimsical wonderland of nature-inspired design, setting the stage for the perfect escape in Atlanta’s bustling Downtown business district. Owned and developed by Barry Real Estate, W Atlanta-Downtown provides a full contemporary lifestyle experience, featuring 237 stylish guest rooms, 74 branded residences, three destination bars including DRINKSHOP from New York-based master mixologist Sasha Petraske, the W living room bar, and WETBAR, the Atlanta debut of chef and restaurateur Laurent Tourondel’s BLT Steak, a glamorous zero-edge pool, signature Bliss® spa, state-of-the-art SWEAT® fitness facility with panoramic city views, more than 8,900 square feet of ultra modern meeting and event space, and the ultimate in Whatever/Whenever by way of a private helipad for guests on the go.

“We are excited to continue to strengthen our presence in the international hub of Atlanta as we unveil W Atlanta-Downtown, a leading example of the W brand’s contemporary and cool lifestyle,” said Eva Ziegler, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide and Le Méridien. “W Atlanta-Downtown mixes escape and indulgence with playful design in the heart of the city’s bustling business district.”

Designed by award-winning architects Pickard Chilton, with interiors by Toronto-based design firm burdifilek in collaboration with HKS Hill Glazier Studio, W Atlanta-Downtown blends organic architectural elements with contemporary design to create a playful and energetic ambience. The hotel’s sleek interior is enhanced by the use of clean lines, sultry textures, rich tones and eye-catching sculptural elements. A forest-inspired wall and curved seating provides intimate conversation nooks in the signature W living room, while a sleek 22-foot water feature emits a calming cascade, culminating in a luminescent onyx reflecting pool.

“We’re thrilled to bring to Atlanta and to Allen Plaza the city’s first and only newly constructed W Hotel and private Residences,” said Hal Barry, chairman of Barry Real Estate Companies. “W Atlanta-Downtown will offer guests and exclusive residents the absolute finest in accommodations, amenities, guest services and many other luxuries. The project is truly a capstone to Allen Plaza, the vibrant new cityscape that is transforming downtown Atlanta.”

The opening of W Atlanta-Downtown introduces DRINKSHOP, Atlanta’s first-ever haute cocktail beverage program. Developed in partnership with critically-acclaimed New York-based mixologist Sasha Petraske, whose Manhattan and London versions of Milk & Honey forever changed cocktail culture, DRINKSHOP is already one of the coolest destinations in Atlanta. DRINKSHOP transfers the ingredient-focused sensibility of the kitchen to the bar, utilizing fresh ingredients and a selection of specialty ices to create the ultimate in cool cocktails. Bottles arrive at guest tables frozen in solid blocks of ice accompanied by freshly-made mixers such as strawberry lemonade, spicy homemade ginger ale, raspberry-rickey soda, and freshly made mojito mix. At DRINKSHOP, Petraske has tailored the haute cocktail concept for the Southern palate, focusing on classic Southern cocktails that use brown spirits. DRINKSHOP is complimented by two additional cocktail destinations within the hotel, including WETBAR, situated next to the hotel’s glamorous zero-edge pool featuring panoramic vistas of downtown Atlanta, and the W living room bar, offering the perfect place for guests and locals to mix, mingle and sip cocktails.

The new BLT Steak at W Atlanta-Downtown represents the Atlanta debut of passionate French-trained chef and cosmopolitan restaurateur Laurent Tourondel’s modern American steakhouse. Serving a range of American classics prepared with a French twist, BLT Steak provides the perfect backdrop for a business lunch, dinner or stylish soiree. The restaurant also offers 24-hour in-room dining to hotel guests, ideal for late-night munchies or a relaxed afternoon snack.

W Atlanta-Downtown features 237 stylish guest rooms, including 16 Studio Suites, three WOW Suites and one Extreme WOW Suite, richly appointed in shades of mulberry, teal and deep indigo. Designed to seduce the senses, the rooms are enhanced by a fusion of custom carpeting, soft linens, Makassar wood furnishings and glossy acrylic accents. All guest rooms feature W Hotels’ signature Munchie Box (W Hotels’ re-interpretation of the traditional hotel Mini Bar), as well as a flat-screen LCD TV and MP3 player docking station and Tivoli radio as part of the hotel’s in-room entertainment options.

The hotel’s 16th floor boasts a suite of inspiring and indulgent experiences including a state-of-the-art SWEAT® fitness facility and Bliss, New York’s hottest spa. Expected to emerge as the city’s top choice for high-profile meetings and parties, W Atlanta-Downtown features more than 8,900 square-feet of ultra-modern meeting and event space, including eight multifunctional meeting rooms equipped with the latest wired and wireless technology. In addition to these exceptional amenities, W Atlanta-Downtown also features a WIRED Business Center so guests can stay connected on the go, as well as the W brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever® service promise, offering guests and residents whatever they want — from tickets to the hottest show at Philips Arena to private jet service from PDK – whenever they want it, as long as it’s legal.

W Atlanta-Downtown is the fourth W Hotel to open in this vibrant city and the latest to join W’s growing North American and global portfolio following recent openings in Minneapolis and Scottsdale, as well as Hong Kong and Istanbul. With 10 years of proven success, W Hotels will triple its footprint by 2011 in vibrant primary destinations around the world, from Paris to Milan, Barcelona to London, Santiago to Vieques Island, Dubai to Doha, Hollywood to South Beach, and Shanghai to Bali.

W Atlanta-Downtown is located at 45 Ivan Allen Jr. Boulevard, Atlanta, GA 30308. For reservations, call (888) 627-8187. Ideally situated in Allen Plaza, the prestigious center of the city’s vibrant financial district, W Atlanta-Downtown offers guests and residents easy access to leading cultural, entertainment and shopping attractions including the CNN Center, Philips Arena, Georgia Dome, Georgia World Congress Center, Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola.

About W Hotels Worldwide®
W Hotels is an innovative luxury lifestyle brand and the hotel category buster with 28 properties in the most vibrant destinations around the world. Inspiring, iconic, innovative and influential, W Hotels provides the ultimate in insider access to a world of “Wow.” Each hotel offers a unique mix of innovative design and passions around fashion, music, entertainment, design, architecture, pop culture, and everything in between. W Hotels are unique and individual expressions of modern living, reflected in the brand’s sensibility to a holistic lifestyle experience with cutting-edge design, contemporary restaurant concepts, glamorous nightlife experiences, and signature spas. With 10 years of proven success, W Hotels will triple its footprint by 2011. In North America and Latin America, W Hotels have been announced in Austin, Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Hoboken, Hollywood, Huntington Beach, Downtown New York, Santiago, South Beach, and Washington, D.C. In Europe, W Hotels have been announced in Athens, Barcelona, London, Manchester, Milan, Paris and St. Petersburg. In Asia, W has announced properties in Bangkok, Guangzhou, Macao-Studio City, Shanghai and Yokohama. In Africa and the Middle East, W has announced properties in Marrakech, Amman, and Dubai. W has plans to open W Retreats in Bali, Koh Samui, Vieques Island and Verbier, the latter of which will serve as W Hotels’ first ski retreat. For more information, visit www.whotels.com.

Experts from Bournemouth University’s (BU) International Centre for Tourism & Hospitality Research (ICTHR) are predicting major opportunities for the UK Tourism industry.

Commenting during British Tourism Week academics from the Centre predict that with the cost of UK holidays dramatically cheaper than many international destinations, more people will choose to holiday in the UK this year. What is clear from the research generated at BU’s ICTHR is that where there is crisis there is also opportunity.

The experts highlight major economic benefits for the UK and the opportunity of much needed jobs being generated, as people from overseas become keener to holiday in the UK due to the declining strength of the pound.

Professor John Fletcher, Director of the ICTHR said: “The short term picture for UK tourism is looking very good as the weak pound makes overseas travel expensive for UK citizens and trips to the UK relatively cheap for international visitors. As well as giving the tourism industry a much needed boost this will generate additional income and employment opportunities.”

Professor Fletcher adds: “There is a window of opportunity for the tourism industry to set out its stall, showing the quality of its products and services, so that as we move further into the 21st century, with the combined forces of higher energy costs and the pressures of climate change, the UK tourism industry can look forward to a strong, robust future.”

The Centre’s leading eTourism expert Professor Dimitrios Buhalis warns that UK tourist organisations and destinations will be required to use agile marketing and technology to deal with the current market conditions.

He states: “Technology enables organisations to increase their efficiency and reduce their operational costs as well as to adopt innovative marketing.  It also supports the personalisation of tourism products and the creation of value through dynamic packaging.

“Tourism organisations that use a multichannel strategy will be able to access many prospective travellers and also to deal with a very last-minute demand that is expected to rise in the current economic climate,” continued Professor Buhalis.

Brand Tango, a Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.-based marketing and advertising firm, was awarded five Gold ARDY awards at the American Resort Development Association’s 2009 convention in Orlando.

“This was our most successful ARDA convention ever, and a big win was a great way to wrap it up,” says Joe Russoniello, the firm’s president and co-founder. “With the current economic climate, we’re finding that even more clients are seeking Brand Tango’s expertise in delivering measurable results with strategic and cost-effective advertising, marketing and brand solutions.”

“Many companies have cut back, so they must identify new ways to market and sell their products,” Russoniello says. “Brand Tango is known for unique solutions, and the current business climate is actually a great time for us to identify ways to replace lost revenue.”

The Gold ARDYs are for the following projects in the Advertising and Promotion category:

• One- to Eight-Page Brochure: Premier Cancún Vacations Spice It Up Brochure
• More Than Eight-Page Brochure (Business to Consumer): GlobeQuest Travel Club Point-of-Sale
• New Owner Member Package: Club Intrawest Member Kit
• Interactive Advertising Campaign: Levitin Group Email Blast
• Web Site: Casa Dorada Vacation Club Web Site

Prior to the ARDA Convention, Brand Tango had been awarded ARDY Silver awards in 10 Advertising and Promotions categories, as well as a technology team Silver award in the Management and Administration category.

Other recent honors for the Brand Tango include the “Judges’ Choice” award at the Advertising Federation of Greater Ft. Lauderdale (Fla.) 2009 Addys for Royal Palm Vacations’ new member kit, which was also won a Gold award. The firm won two other Gold and five Silver Addy local awards. The three Gold award winners are now eligible to win a Gold Addy at the District level and thus be considered for national honors.

Brand Tango is a comprehensive marketing, design, and technology company with clients in timeshare/real estate/hospitality, consumer products and services, and financial services. Relying on their decades of combined expertise, its principals and staff help clients define and achieve sales goals and return-on-investment objectives by addressing integrated marketing needs in an efficient, unbiased, and knowledgeable manner with a solid, multi-faceted, results-oriented strategy.

Brand Tango specializes in new-customer kits, loyalty programs, member-retention materials, and annual reports for vacation ownership, hospitality and leisure clients, and for other consumer-products companies. Selected clients include Pacific Monarch Resorts, the Levitin Group, Island One Resorts, GBS International, OPTX 20/20, Premier Estate Properties, Royal Palm Vacations, Tres Ríos Resort, Sunset Resorts, Premier Cancún Vacations, Grand Incentives, and Advantage Travel.

To view examples of Brand Tango’s recent work, visit www.brand-tango.com. For an online demonstration of Brand Tango’s Web 2.0 customer relationship management system, Tango, go to www.gettango.com.

For more information, contact Joe Russoniello at (954) 295-7879 or
joe@brand-tango.com .

Industry Perspective, Education, and Networking Highlight ARDA Convention

Almost three thousand timeshare industry professionals gathered together at the 2009 American Resort Development Association (ARDA) Convention and Exposition, March 29–April 2, 2009. The annual convention and tradeshow, hosted at the Orlando World Center Marriott, showcased 164 exhibitors, including 36 new exhibiting companies.

This year’s convention kicked off with the Group RCI/AIF Open Golf Tournament at Hawk’s Landing Golf Club. One hundred and forty-four golfers played in support of the ARDA International Foundation. All net proceeds from the tournament and Auto Driveaway support industry research and education programs. Interval International’s “Party with a Cause,” which showcased the Spinners, also raised funds for the Foundation.

The convention’s opening general session, sponsored by Group RCI, featured keynote speaker Dr. Jeffrey Rosenweig, who is a global economics forecaster and expert on global investing and business strategy. This session also feted the industry association’s 40th Anniversary, which will be celebrated in various ways throughout the year.

The week’s events featured a notable line-up of forum and educational sessions with outstanding speakers and entertainers. Highlights of the convention included Tuesday morning’s opening session, “State of the Industry in Three Parts”. Three back-to-back panels discussed the rapidly changing state of timeshare industry from different viewpoints: The Advocates, The Communicators, and the CEOs.

Other events included the Industry Think Tank, sponsored by North Highland. Three hundred industry leaders came together to share and design new business strategies and models needed in order to succeed during the current economic environment. The Resale Forum, “Shaping Resale for the Future,” was presented to discuss the need for better consumer information about the secondary market and future plans.

ARDA members were joined this year by members of the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) and the Caribbean Society of Hotel Association Executives (CSHAE), who held an annual two-day leadership conference in conjunction with the ARDA Convention and attended educational sessions.

Throughout, industry executives shared industry practices, gained knowledge of the most recent marketing trends and tools, heard state-of-the-industry updates, and witnessed firsthand the impact of timeshare in Orlando, one of the top resort regions in the United States. Panel discussions and educational sessions addressed a wide variety of topics, such as hospitality issues, fractional and private residence clubs, fundamentals of finance, cross-industry developments, green management, and e-media trends–all with the goal of drawing a new road map for the future.

“Although the industry has been hit hard by the current credit crisis, the fundamentals remain sound, especially in fulfilling the need for better vacationing at a great value,” said Howard Nusbaum, ARDA president and CEO. “Our industry was developed during the recession of the 1970s, and the entrepreneurial nature and creative spirit of our members will continue to meet the needs of a new generation of Americans eager to answer their wanderlust with vacation ownership.”

Highlights of the program also included Breakfast of Champions, sponsored by Hilton Grand Vacations, featured legendary Olympic swimmer Janet Evans. The ARDA Awards Gala, sponsored by Holiday Systems International (HSI), which featured the presentation of the annual ARDA Awards and a performance by famed composer Marvin Hamlisch.

The 2009 Signature Sponsors include American Express, Group RCI, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Holiday Systems International (HSI), International Cruise and Excursions, Inc. (ICE), Interval International, Redweek.com, Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., Textron Financial Corporation, VacationGuard, Inc., and Whirlpool Corporation.

The Abaco Club on Winding Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Managed Club recently opened the second series of Ritz-Carlton Club, fractional residences. This secluded residential development and sporting retreat known for golf, beach and boating pursuits, now offers five fractionally-owned cliff cottages to Members of the leading private residence club brand, The Ritz-Carlton Club.

The opening of the cottages marks the second phase for The Ritz-Carlton Club, with the initial phase having opened last November. The new fractional cliff cottages are nestled into the side of a tropical limestone ridge surrounded by lush landscaping and all offer stunning views of Winding Bay. With this addition, Members now have 10 fractional residences to explore, each with a view of the bay or the first fairway of the Scottish-style links golf course, twice ranked the number one golf course in The Bahamas.

The cliff cottages include two and three-bedroom floor plans. The two-bedroom cottages are approximately 1,656 square feet of air-conditioned space and the three-bedroom cottages are approximately 2,381 square feet of air-conditioned space. 
 
Influences for the cottages were drawn from traditional Bahamian buildings on the island. All of the cottages include large, welcoming porches reflective of their southern hospitality inspiration, while the interiors boast fine finishes such as warm wood floors, bead paneling, stone tile, granite countertops and vaulted tongue and groove ceilings. Cottage amenities include a contemporary kitchen with Viking appliances, free standing garden tubs, flat panel televisions in all bedrooms, luxury furnishings and outdoor showers. The color palettes are derived from the surrounding turquoise blue and azure green ocean, as well as sandy neutrals.

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 trip. Additionally, when choosing from the collection of homes (cabanas, fairway villas, as well as cliff and beachfront cottages), each residence is assigned a varying nightly point value. Furthermore, the concept grants a deeded interest as part of a Bahamian real estate trust. This approach allows Members to will the interest to their heirs, if desired.

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

The possibilities are endless on how a Member might enjoy their Ritz-Carlton Club membership. For instance, a Member could elect to spend 14 nights (990 points) in a two-bedroom cliff cottage with the family to escape the winter chill, seven nights (235 points) in a similar two-bedroom cottage in June while the kids are on vacation, seven nights in July in a cabana (100 points) and seven nights (170 points) in a three-bedroom cliff cottage in the fall for a getaway before the holidays.*

The Ritz-Carlton Club lifestyle is tailored to each Member’s preferences. Services include pre-arrival provisioning of the Member’s residence, such as pre-stocking of their refrigerator; concierge services; assistance with travel arrangements; vacation activity planning; and twice-daily housekeeping. Ritz-Carlton Club Members also take pleasure in the octagonally-designed clubhouse featuring gourmet dining, as well as views of the bay and its double crescent shoreline. At the beach, Members discover numerous water activities including snorkeling at a nearby coral reef, as well as dining options at Buster’s, a casual thatched-roof bar and grill at the water’s edge.

Architects collaborating on the fractional residence designs are Plan It Bahamas, located in Nassau, The Bahamas, and Cooper Johnson Smith Architects Inc, located in Tampa, Fla.

About The Abaco Club on Winding Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Managed Club

Located on Abaco in The Bahamas, The Abaco Club on Winding Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Managed Club is an island sanctuary coupled with Founder and Chairman, Peter de Savary’s vision and service excellence of The Ritz-Carlton. This 534-acre retreat offers estate home lots, cottages, cabanas, fractional residences and golf and social memberships, all of which provide Members and Guest Members with a calming respite.

Diversions are plentiful including: the world’s first Scottish-style links golf course in the tropics (designed by Donald Steel and Tom Mackenzie), clubhouse, dining, spa, tennis courts, and fitness center. Snorkeling, diving, deep-sea fishing and flats bone fishing are also part of The Club’s available activities. Serviced by cities in Florida and Nassau, Bahamas, Abaco is easily accessed by commercial airlines or private jet to Marsh Harbour Airport. For those with private planes, The Abaco Club has its own terminal, inclusive of The Bahamas Customs and Immigration services.

About The Ritz-Carlton Club

The Ritz-Carlton Club is not a traditional timeshare, it is a deeded, fractional ownership real estate offering combining the benefits of luxury vacation home ownership with personalized Ritz-Carlton services and resort amenities. Designed as a private club, Members have the opportunity to access their luxuriously-appointed vacation home Club or other Ritz-Carlton Clubs from Aspen, Colo. to San Francisco through reciprocal use privileges in accordance with reservation procedures.

Members also have the ability to utilize additional time as available. For further information, please visit www.ritzcarltonclub.com.

Interval International, a leading global provider of vacation services, announced the addition of Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort & Spa, a private residence club in St. Lucia, to its vacation exchange network. A tranquil, luxurious retreat on the northwest coast of the island, the resort is tucked away on 55 acres of landscaped grounds facing Labrelotte Bay, approximately 5 miles from the capital of Castries.

Windjammer Landing Beach Resort & Spa St. Lucia

“We are proud to welcome Windjammer Landing to our network. This is an exceptional resort and clearly a flagship affiliation in the Caribbean for our company,” said David Callaghan, vice president, resort sales and service, Interval International. “The property has been recognized with numerous awards for its outstanding accommodations, gourmet dining, dramatic location, and high service standards. Our members will enjoy memorable experiences while visiting one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in the entire region.”

The resort was designed by noted architect Ian Morrison as a self-contained Mediterranean-style village with graceful archways, white stucco walls, beamed ceilings, and tile roofs. The spacious 67 villas are decorated in Caribbean themes with tropical colors and offer unobstructed ocean views. Each unit has an open floor plan, wood furnishings, fully-equipped kitchen, granite countertops, upscale appliances and electronics, and a secluded terrace or sundeck open to the Caribbean breezes.

“Owners at Windjammer Landing are discerning, upscale consumers. Our decision to reevaluate exchange partners was made after carefully reviewing options and conducting extensive due diligence. Ultimately, we decided that the properties that are part of Interval’s Quality Vacation Exchange Network clearly represented the highest quality portfolio of shared ownership resorts,” noted Anthony Bowen, vice president and managing director, Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort & Spa. “Interval is a loyal and proven partner of the Caribbean hospitality industry and their executives know and understand the unique business needs of the region. We are delighted to be enhancing our product offering by partnering with a company of this stature.”

Windjammer Landing offers a full array of amenities, activities, and services. Guests can enjoy casual and elegant dining experiences with four restaurants from which to choose. They can linger on the private white-sand beach and the infinity swimming pools or have a massage in the Serenity Spa or in the privacy of their own villa. Sailboats, windsurfers, paddleboats, water-skis, and snorkeling gear are ready and waiting, with golf and horseback-riding stables nearby.

About EllisDon Corporation
Windjammer Landing was developed and is operated by EllisDon Corporation, an internationally recognized leader in the construction industry and one of the largest building contractors in Canada. The company was founded in 1951 and launched its vacation club operations in the early 1990’s. Completing in excess of $2 billion in new construction annually, EllisDon employs approximately 1,100 people. It is headquartered in London, Ontario, and has additional offices in the southern United States, Athens, Saint Lucia, and the United Arab Emirates.

About Interval International
Interval International operates membership programs for vacation owners and provides value-added services to its developer clients worldwide. Based in Miami, Florida, the company has been a pioneer and innovator in serving the vacation ownership market for more than 30 years. Today, Interval has a network of over 2,400 resorts in more than 75 countries and offers its resort clients and approximately 2 million member families high-quality products and programs through 25 offices in 16 countries. Interval is an operating segment of Interval Leisure Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: IILG), a leading global provider of membership and leisure services to the vacation industry.

Interval International, a leading provider of vacation services, announced the addition of Grand Solmar at Land’s End Resort and Spa, an exclusive vacation ownership resort in Los Cabos, to its global exchange network. Scheduled to begin construction in March, the oceanfront resort will be adjacent to the renowned Arch of Los Cabos at the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula.

Interval International Adds Grand Solmar At Land's End Resort And Spa To Its Global Vacation Exchange Network

Grand Solmar will include 250 villas with unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and its landscaped gardens upon completion. Phase I of the project will include 104 units that are scheduled for occupancy in winter 2011 and phase II, which will have 96 additional units, is expected to be completed two years later. The final phase, with 50 units, is slated for occupancy in winter 2015.
 
“We are delighted to add this upscale property in one of Mexico’s top leisure destinations to our portfolio of quality resorts,” said Marcos Agostini, assistant vice president for Latin America, resort sales and service, Interval International. “Its location on a private oceanfront enclave at Land’s End will provide our members with the opportunity to enjoy these deluxe accommodations in a spectacular natural setting.”

The elegantly appointed villas will feature old world Mexican décor with wood carved furnishings, wrought iron and stone finishes, fully equipped kitchens with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, spacious living and dining areas, state-of-the-art electronics, Wi Fi Internet access, and private terraces.

“We designed this resort taking into account all of our development experience from previous projects and will deliver one of the finest luxury properties in Cabo San Lucas,” said Carlos Vasquez, sales and marketing director, Grand Solmar. “By partnering with Interval, we will also be able to offer our future owners extremely valuable leisure benefits, including the ability to exchange into hundreds of properties around the world.”

Guests at the resort will be able to enjoy numerous amenities such as restaurants, swim-up bar, outdoor pools, hot tubs, tennis court, retail village, grocery store, fitness center, beauty salon, full-service spa, and business center and meeting rooms.

Los Cabos’ location provides visitors with the opportunity to experience a distinctive landscape created by the contrast between desert mountains, blue sea, and golden sand beaches. The Arch – a natural rock formation at the juncture of the Sea of Cortes and the Pacific Ocean – has become a well-known landmark in Cabo San Lucas.

Interval International operates membership programs for vacation owners and provides value-added services to its developer clients worldwide. Based in Miami, Florida, the company has been a pioneer and innovator in serving the vacation ownership market for more than 30 years. Today, Interval has a network of over 2,400 resorts in more than 75 countries and offers its resort clients and approximately 2 million member families high-quality products and programs through 25 offices in 16 countries. Interval is an operating segment of Interval Leisure Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: IILG), a leading global provider of membership and leisure services to the vacation industry.

Hotel Giant to Create Design, Branding and Retail Think Tank

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE:HOT) announced plans to relocate its Manhattan-based luxury and design-led brands from Chelsea to a new headquarters space downtown on Varick Street, where SoHo and Tribeca meet. Global marketing, brand management and design teams for W Hotels, Le Méridien, St. Regis and The Luxury Collection will join Starwood’s Bliss and Remède Spa teams in a redesigned space meant to inspire creativity and innovation and serve as a design, branding and retail think tank.

“This move is illustrative of Starwood’s commitment to design, innovation and brand building,” said Phil McAveety, Chief Brand Officer, Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “As we continue to attract and inspire the best and the brightest creative talent, we look forward to being part of a vibrant community that appreciates, cultivates and inspires our brands’ passion points including fashion, entertainment, art and design.”

VM Design Studio, a New York-based collective of renowned architects and designers, will lead the renovation of Bliss and Remède Spa’s existing 20,000 square foot office space located at 75 Varick Street. When the redesign is completed in September, 2009, Starwood will unveil a modern office space for 150 associates, which will also serve as showcase space to immerse owners, developers, designers and creative agencies in Starwood’s signature luxury and lifestyle brands, which continue to meaningfully grow around the world.

VM Design Studio’s design portfolio includes work on the world headquarters of Pixar Animation Studios in California and the West Elm corporate headquarters in New York, in addition to several St. Regis properties, including four new St. Regis hotels currently under construction in Hawaii, The Bahamas, Puerto Rico and Deer Valley, Utah.

“In addition to establishing a creative hub, we are excited to merge space with our Bliss and Remède Spa brands which work closely with our brands to develop signature spas and bath amenities in our hotels around the globe,” said McAveety. “We are, of course, sensitive to the current economic environment. By consolidating the two offices we will drive efficiencies which will offset the investment needed to create this new brand and design space.”

While the space is under construction, the design, marketing and brand management teams for these brands will temporarily move from their current space in West Chelsea’s Starrett-Lehigh Building to Starwood’s global corporate headquarters in White Plains, NY.

About Starwood Hotels & Resorts

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 940 properties in approximately 97 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched Aloft®, and Element SM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

Source: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
K.C. Kavanagh, 914-640-8339

The Registry Collection® exchange programme is pleased to announce it will be the Signature Sponsor for the second consecutive year of the Fractional Life Summit, Europe’s leading fractional event.

This year’s summit will be held on 23rd and 24th April at The Hilton Metropole Hotel in London. Several speakers will present on behalf of The Registry Collection exchange programme and be available for discussion at a fully-staffed booth.

At the close of the summit at 13.00 on 24th April, The Registry Collection representatives will host a press conference to present several new European fractional.developments which have recently joined its international property portfolio and to answer questions.

“There is a real buzz about the industry across Europe now with increasing levels of interest in a product that offers both a luxury lifestyle and unparalleled value,” said Gregg Anderson, Vice President of Global Product Management for The Registry Collection exchange programme. “For that reason we know it is important to support The Fractional Life Summit – Europe’s only dedicated meeting place for industry players. My colleagues and I very much look forward to meeting with those who have identified the tremendous opportunities in the fractional market at this event and want to work with us to unlock the potential in their developments, as well as welcoming members of the press to our press conference luncheon.”

Piers Brown, founder of Fractional Life, said: “We are excited to have the participation of The Registry Collection at the 2009 Summit. This brand provides fractional owners with access to some of the world’s finest vacation properties and delivers the level of service they expect.”

The Registry Collection exchange programme pioneered the concept of exchanging luxury fractional ownership properties when it was launched in the United States seven years ago. Today, there are more than 160 properties available through the programme that are either accessible for exchange or under development across five continents. Over 30,000 members enjoy the benefits of the exceptional quality and unsurpassed service in their holiday homes that membership to The Registry Collection exchange programme brings.

Apart from providing support and consultancy services to fractional developers, The Registry Collection exchange programme provides developers with many benefits to help distinguish their offering. These include an Early Privilege Programme enabling purchasers who buy off plan to start holidaying in The Registry Collection’s portfolio of superb properties while waiting for completion of their own development. A 24-hour concierge service is also available to members, together with access to savings and privileges on a number of luxury products and services through The Collection Partners exchange programme.

In the last year, The Registry Collection exchange programme has welcomed new European developments into its portfolio in Portugal and the South of France, as well as in Dubai, South Africa and the Seychelles.
About Fractional Life
Fractional Life is an exciting new web brand based on the fractional ownership and asset-sharing concept. The site’s aim is to give consumers the choice of the best of everything, from luxury homes to private jets and super cars, at a fraction of the cost, all under one roof in a ‘fractional superstore.’ Fractional Life helps consumers to make informed decisions to enjoy the lifestyle they want, when they want it. It also provides an invaluable news and networking forum for developers, as well as a platform for them to showcase their product to an interested and engaged consumer audience.
For more information about Fractional Life or the 2009 Summit to be held on 23rd-24th April, please visit www.fractionallife.com

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

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

To arrange to meet a member of the team at The Fractional Life Summit, please contact Amanda White on tel: +44 (0)1536 314651, email: Amanda.white@rci.com

To arrange to attend the press conference on 24th April at 13.00, contact Helen Foster on tel: +44 (0)1536 314266, email: helen.foster@rci.com

World’s largest vacation exchange company recognized at industry awards gala

RCI, the global leader in vacation exchange and one of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies (NYSE: WYN), was selected as “Employer of the Year,” while associate Jennifer Vanlerberghe received ARDA’s first-ever Circle of Excellence “Women on Their Way” award at the association’s 2009 gala ceremony in Orlando, Florida, last week.

“RCI prides itself on having the most talented, engaged and service oriented associates in the hospitality business who are committed to delivering great vacation experiences at every interaction and touch point,” said Geoff Ballotti, President and CEO, Group RCI. “These awards demonstrate the commitment by our business and associates like Jennifer to our ‘Count On Me!’ service ethos for our members and affiliates. It’s a great honor for all of RCI’s associates to be recognized by our colleagues throughout the industry, and to see so many of our affiliates at this event honored as well.”

RCI also received an award in the advertising and promotion category for “Passport,” the company’s internal internet-enabled communications vehicle distributed monthly to its associates across the globe. 

The ARDA awards are an opportunity to recognize those companies and individuals who have demonstrated excellence in the industry. The ACE awards honor specific individuals who have attained the highest level of excellence in their fields or have demonstrated a commitment to the betterment of the industry as a whole. The Employer of the Year award recognized RCI’s efforts to help its associates develop and grow their personal and professional experiences in rewarding careers with the business. The award highlighted RCI’s “CATALYST” program which focuses on identifying, developing and retaining the best possible leadership talent available by combining innovative techniques to keep the energy high and the leadership learning impactful.

The 2009 ARDA Awards Program also featured the first-ever ACE Women on Their Way award. Honoree Vanlerberghe joined RCI as customer segment manager in 2003 when RCI was in the midst of forming a new customer internet and social networking strategy. As part of these efforts, Vanlerberghe was a lead contributor as RCI’s online presence transformed itself into a key customer-servicing and inventory distribution channel central to RCI’s global business. Now a full-time business leader of the strategy and implementation of RCI’s online services, Vanlerberghe has been a driving force in implementing RCI’s “member-centric” customer strategy into the business’s website presence through the Enhanced Search project, one of the most significant and groundbreaking technology initiatives ever implemented in the timeshare industry which has helped RCI nearly double its North America online transactional share.

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

One, Two and Three Bedroom Riverfront and Vineyard View Villas Available

The five-star Aquapura Douro Valley situated on the southern bank of the Douro River, is located in a stunning wine region designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hotel’s 21 villas are available under a new fractional ownership program, making this one-of-kind emerging luxury and wine destination more accessible to potential vacation homeowners.

The 21 villas offer pure sophistication and total privacy. Size ranges from 1,507 to 2,530 square-feet, with one, two and three floor and bedroom configurations. The décor is enriched with warm natural wood and combined with stainless steel and glass, creating a unique and modern design aesthetic. Additionally, all villas benefit from the hotel’s full service and extensive amenities including a 23,600 square foot spa, three world class restaurants, wine cellar, 24-hour concierge, and much more.

The property was built on “Quinta Vale de Abraão” a home belonging to a Portuguese family that has been producing wine since 15th century.  The 20 acres in and around the hotel encompasses terraced vineyards and rolling hills typical of the region. The Quinta’s renovation retained the tradition and authenticity of the original structure while blending the purity of lines of contemporary architecture and design. All public spaces and guest rooms reflect elegance and tranquility with carefully chosen materials and accents inspired by Asian hospitality.

The 14 Douro Villas overlooking the river include:
-    Heated private swimming pools
-    Terraces overlooking the Douro river
-    Access via a private road
-    Underground parking for added security

The seven Vineyard Villas overlooking the beautiful terraced vineyards include:
-    A shared heated swimming pool for five villas
-    Two Villas have private pools
-    Rustic fireplaces
-    Private gardens

Aquapura Douro Valley, together with Cushman & Wakefield, FOC and Olive Tree, are launching a shared or “Fractional” property ownership concept. This new innovation allows luxury vacation properties to be more accessible financially to potential owners and to share the responsibilities of full ownership. Investors may acquire a ¼ or ½ of a villa but are entitled to full property rights, at the same time enjoy the benefits of property ownership. In addition, being part of Aquapura Douro Valley Villas entitles potential owners full access to the Registry Collection International (RCI), an exclusive exchange program and group of luxury vacation properties located in desirable destinations around the world. RCI has given one of its highest ratings to Aquapura Douro Valley Villas, which translates into more benefits to its owners.

Price for a villa shared by four owners starts from just US $152, 811. For more information, please visit www.aquapurahotels.com.
 
About Aquapura
Aquapura Douro Valley debuted in Portugal’s World Heritage wine region in summer 2007. The first in a series of daring design properties, it honors both the landscape and local culture. 

Centered on a nineteenth-century manor house, the resort also has 50 rooms and suites, 21 villas, a 23,600-square-foot spa, three restaurants, wine tasting room, two bars, an outdoor heated swimming pool, library, business centre and a wine cellar. Wi-Fi, airport transfers and 24-hour concierge service smooth the visitor’s transition from the hectic world to this harmonious haven.

Aquapura sprang from the 2004 merger of Diogo Vaz Guedes entrepreneurship as well as the association with Banco Privado Portugues, António Mexia and Miguel Simões de Almeida. Inspired by his travels, this CEO crafted the Aquapura philosophy, blending water, intelligence, luxury and excellence. Aquapura Hotels has plans to expand with additional property openings in Fortaleza, Brazil; Alentejo, Portugal; Prague; Macedonia and Panama. For more information, please ring +351 254 66 06 00 or visit www.aquapurahotels.com.

E3Escapes has partnered with Prudential California Realty Cabo Gold Division to offer the ultra-luxury fractional ownership concept, The Villa Las Palmas Collection, in beautiful Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. An amenity-rich collection, the Villa Las Palmas Collection is the first ever 3-dimensional fractional home ownership program which includes a 13,000 sq ft mansion, a 60-foot luxury yacht, and unparalleled 6-star owner services.

E3Escapes is proud to announce the partnership with Prudential California Realty Cabo Gold Division to market and sell the ultra-luxury fractional ownership concept, E3Escapes – The Villa Las Palmas Collection, in beautiful Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

The Villa Las Palmas Collection is the first ever 3-dimensional, ultra-luxury fractional home ownership program offering a 13,000 sq. ft. mansion, a 60-foot luxury yacht, and unparalleled 6-star services. An amenity rich collection, this is truly the first of its kind within the fractional shared home ownership market.

The Villa Las Palmas Collection provides a few fortunate owners the exceptional opportunity of experiencing all the exciting lifestyle advantages of second-home ownership without all the hassles, wasted time and costs associated with management and maintenance.

Set within the exclusive gated community of Pedregal, overlooking Cabo San Lucas and the Sea of Cortez, each villa consists of 6 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and can accommodate up to 16 people in luxurious comfort. Each balcony overlooks the Marina below the second dimension of the collection and Spartacus at Sea, the tournament-award winning 60-foot Hatteras Sport Fishing Yacht.

Owners and their guests experience exceptional 6-Star Service which begins with a jet/plane hangar at the local Cabo Executive Airport (for personal jet and/or plane should they own one), and continues with a dedicated staff of seven (7) to cater to their every need.

“This is unlike any other fractional home ownership program out there,” said Tim Gesner, E3Escapes president. “This is a unique blend of a private luxury villa with white-glove 6-star service, plus the incredible 60-foot Spartacus at Sea sport fishing yacht with an experienced captain and crew. The Villa Las Palmas Collection provides those looking for a second home in Cabo San Lucas the ultimate vacation lifestyle at a fraction of the cost.”

Fractional ownership is the fastest growing segment of the vacation home market and is expected to be the first segment of the real estate market to recover from this current economic climate. Fractional ownership is recognized as being a more cost effective alternative to buying and maintaining a luxury vacation home that might only be used a few weeks out of every year. Fractional plans provide the owner an equity stake in the property which can be sold or transferred like wholly owned real estate, while providing the flexibility of only owning and paying for the time you use.

“Over the years, we’ve seen many attempts to fractionalize homes in Cabo, but never before have we seen such an exceptional concept, at the right time for this market,” said Debra Dodson, Broker for Prudential California realty’s Cabo Gold Division. “Now the Broker and Sales Agent community have a truly viable vacation home alternative to whole ownership for their clients.”

For additional information on the E3Escapes fractional ownership collection, The Villa Las Palmas Collection, or information related about the Prudential California Realty Gold Division, please visit the E3Escapes website or call our toll free number: 877.336.3942

About E3Escapes:
With over 100 years of leadership experience, E3Escapes is an innovative development company offering ultra-luxury fractional home ownership collections in highly desired and elite vacation destinations globally. Each shared vacation home ownership collection contains three different elements that are reflective of the vacation lifestyle indigenous to the area, providing an unparalleled and unmatched experienced to its respective owners. The Villa Las Palmas Collection in Cabo is the initial fractional ownership opportunity in the E3Escapes portfolio. E3Escapes is currently planning and reviewing the addition of future collections in Cabo and other desired vacation locations.

About Prudential California Realty Gold Division:
Prudential California Realty – Cabo Gold Division is a full service real estate company in Cabo San Lucas. Through our three offices and 30 agents, we offer a complete, multilingual, personal and professional service to our clients. As members of the MLS NAR, AMPI and the Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate, we operate ethically and to the highest standards. As a result, we have sold more homes in region than any other company. As part of the Prudential California Realty network, a group with several billions of dollars in sales annually, fractional owners are assured their investment in Cabo is in the hands of the most professional and knowledgeable company available.

The well-known professional golfer, Jesús Mari Arruti, paid a recent visit to Gran Canaria where he enjoyed the luxury of Anfi Emerald Club and Anfi Tauro Golf.

At the moment the successful golfer is competing in the European Tour (European Circuit) and in the Peugeot Loewe (National Circuit). He was also the APG (Association of Professionals) Spanish champion in 2007 – this same competition was successfully held the following year at Anfi Tauro Golf.

During his stay, we were lucky enough to be able to enjoy his game on two separate occasions. The first was a VIP game with important hoteliers from the south of the island and the second was an excellent “golf clinic” where golf course employees not only enjoyed his lessons and learned a lot but were also impressed by his friendliness.

Anfi Tauro Golf boasts a world class eighteen- and nine-hole golf course that are both set in an exquisite coastal location in the south of the island where the temperate climate allows for all year round top golfing.

The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) honored the ARDA Circle of Excellence Award and ARDY Award winners at a gala ceremony and dinner during the 2009 Convention & Exposition in Orlando, Florida.

“These companies and individuals represent ‘the best of the best’ in the vacation ownership industry,” said Howard Nusbaum , RRP, president and CEO of ARDA.  “Selected by their peers, they set an example of personal and professional excellence for us all.”

The ACE Lifetime Achievement Award is given to an individual whose pioneering efforts have had a major positive impact on the direction and standards of the industry.  This year’s posthumous recipient, Jim Lambert, was the founder and visionary force of The Berkley Group and supported ARDA from its formation.  He is remembered fondly by all for his record of achievement and support.

The ACE Project of Excellence Award recognizes timeshare or mixed-use projects that are considered a success by investors, owners and the local community.  The recipient exhibits years of cooperation between planners, engineers, architects, lenders, contractors, designers, sales, marketing, operations, staff, owners, local government, community groups, and the surrounding area.  This year’s recipient is The Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort in Orlando, Florida, a showcase resort that became the set for the company’s first-ever TV ad campaign featuring legendary golfer Arnold Palmer. It was also the grand prize on “The Dreamers into Doers” contest on the Martha Stew art Show.

The ACE Volunteer Award, given in memory of Anne W. Crawford, recognizes an ARDA member who consistently devotes time, energy, creativity and talent to the advancement of the industry.  This year, the ARDA member to earn this significant honor is Bob Miller, President of Marriott Leisure.  His selfless hours, uncommon support of ARDA and participation in countless strategic governmental meetings make him one of the most outstanding leaders in the industry.

The ACE Innovator Award recognizes a company or individual that has developed a ground-breaking product, service or concept that was successfully implemented within the last three years.  The winner this year, Wyndham Vacation Ownership, has undergone several break-through “green” initiatives such as creatively harvesting southern daylight for maximized window space and lowering interior cube walls so more light could flow into work areas.  Occupancy sensors were also installed to reduce unnecessary lighting expenses and indoor air quality was enhanced with a fresh air intake unit which minimized VOC products and particles in the air.  An employee recycling training program was launched, as well.

The ACE Philanthropic Award recognizes an outstanding philanthropic effort for a humanitarian cause by an individual or company.  This year, Bruce Thompson, CEO of Gold Key/ PHR Hotels, was recognized for his monumental efforts in supporting and participating in the Annual Walk to Defeat ALS (known as Lou Gherig’s Disease), in honor of his son who was stricken with ALS and for all those who suffer from the disease.  He has taken a lead role in planning events all across the country.

The ACE Community Service Award recognizes outstanding community contributions by an ARDA member individual or organization.  This year’s recipient, the ShareForce workers of the Island One Foundation are honored for their strong support of Habitat for Humanity and their unwavering devotion to helping others.

The ACE Employer of the Year Award recognizes an employer that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to its employees.  This year’s winner, Group RCI, designed a highly targeted new training program, called CATALYST,  to create a company culture of leadership.  The program includes a comprehensive course which provides a structured development plan of how to obtain competencies needed for advancement.

The ACE Employee of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding employee who has demonstrated commitment, loyalty, superior performance, and the willingness to go above and beyond. This year’s recipient, Olga Dancaescu, is Project Coordinator of the Island Empress Resort on Santa Rosa Island , Pensacola Beach .  She guided a team of architects, designers, financers, marketing and PR specialists to create a new island resort and is recognized for her respect, focus, integrity, graciousness, exceptional skill and devotion.

The ACE Women on Their Way Award is a brand new award this year, recognizing the outstanding achievements of women who continue to excel and advance in the industry. The very first recipient of the ACE Women on Their Way Award is Jenniver Vanlerberghe, Director of Global eCommerce for Group RCI, who quickly became the driving force behind the development and introduction of RCI’s new Enhance Search Internet Service, a new approach to booking online.

In addition to the ACE Awards, ARDA awarded ARDYs to finalists in advertising and promotion; resort design; management and administration; and marketing/sales categories.  For a list of winners and finalists, please visit the “Awards” section of the website at www.arda.org.

Travelport GDS partners with DerbySoft and Etours CRS to offer expanded hotel offering

One of the world’s largest global distribution system (GDS) providers, has recently signed agreements with two leading hotel content providers that will be available on the Galileo and Worldspan GDS platforms. China’s DerbySoft and India’s Etours CRS will offer Travelport connected travel agents access to thousands of hotel properties in both China and India.

“We are delighted to offer our travel agency customers access to an expanded range of hotel content in two key travel markets in Asia – India and China.  These content agreements will further reinforce Travelport as a leading source of GDS hotel bookings in the Asia Pacific region,” said Patrick Lukan, general manager for Travelport GDS, UK & Ireland.

Travelport GDS currently provides travel agents with real-time access to more than 400 hotel brands and over 80,000 properties worldwide. The agreement with DerbySoft and Etours will significantly enhance the choice and mix of hotel properties in both China and India. Shanghai-based DerbySoft has direct connections to more than 1,000 independent hotels in China while Mumbai-based Etours’ inventory includes 1,800 hotels in more than 300 cities across India.

“We’re pleased that Travelport has selected DerbySoft as one of its first direct connect partners.  This is an important step in broadening our distribution reach for the unique hotel content available in our system.  Travelport’s subscribers can benefit from a broader mix of hotels in China in addition to better rates and availability,” said Dave Revelle, DerbySoft’s Director of Business Development.

“This strategic partnership with Travelport GDS will not only enhance Etours’ global reach but will present Travelport connected agents with a new range of hotel properties in India, varying from deluxe five star establishments to smaller independent hotels,” said Yogesh Rathi, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Etours CRS.

Tens of thousands of UK consumers have collected a copy of the new consumer publication this month that gives an independent overview of the leisure property and luxury travel market.

Owners Perspective Magazine (http://www.ownersperspective.com) which covers all aspects of fractional ownership, resort real estate, timeshare, vacation ownership and private residence clubs as well as all luxury travel and lifestyle topics was introduced to the general public this month via A Place In The Sun Live, the property show in Earls Court London and through the beginning of their distribution deal at leading Tesco & Sainsbury’s supermarkets across the UK.

Initial feedback from both sources confirms the desire for knowledge of varied property and vacation purchase options by the consumer and interaction with the magazine’s website more specifically identifies the growth in online research prior to deciding to purchase.

Through several other marketing deals already in place, extensive online and print marketing and reader referrals, Owners Perspective Magazine is creating a rapidly expanding, highly targeted, intelligent marketplace for developers, marketers and suppliers of the shared ownership industry.

Perspective International Ltd, the company that publishes Owners Perspective and Perspective Magazine (http://www.theperspectivemagazine.com) it’s older B2B counterpart are currently in negotiations with a number of developers for distribution via hotel rooms, resort accommodation and as a member benefit.

For more information visit http://www.perspectiverates.com
Telephone: +1 407 792 2343 (USA) +44 191 250 3501 (UK)

Textron Financial Corporation, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that Stewart L. Cohen has joined Textron Financial (TFC) as executive vice president of special assets. In this new role, Cohen, who has more than 20 years of experience in the area of asset disposition, is responsible for the orderly liquidation and selected sales of certain of TFC’s commercial finance assets.  This addition to the TFC executive team supports TFC’s strategic mandate to restructure its business.

“Having an experienced leader like Stewart strengthens our ability to quickly and effectively achieve our restructuring mission and strategy,” said TFC President & Chief Executive Officer Warren Lyons. “He understands the inner workings of the restructuring industry, and he has a proven track record of assisting both manufacturing and finance companies to dispose of assets and businesses.”

“TFC remains ahead of plan for its finance receivable run-off targets for 2009,” Lyons added. “With Stewart on board, this will allow us to continue meeting and exceeding our goals as we move forward.”

Cohen most recently served as the executive vice president of the Hilco Organization, focusing on corporate acquisition, asset disposition, special situations financing and consulting activities across all industry sectors.  Prior to that, he orchestrated the wind-down of Polaroid, and he previously founded and managed Paragon Capital.

Cohen is based at TFC’s corporate headquarters in Providence, Rhode Island.  More details on the portfolio and business assets that are currently classified for sale are available at www.textronfinancial.com.

About Textron Financial

Textron Financial is a diversified commercial finance company that provides financing programs for products manufactured by its parent company, Textron Inc. www.textron.com.  Current specialties include Aviation Finance and Golf Equipment Finance.  The company also manages a portfolio of receivables which it previously originated in various businesses, including Asset-Based Lending, Distribution Finance, Golf Finance, Resort Finance and Structured Capital.

About Textron Inc.

Textron Inc. is a $14.2 billion multi-industry company operating in 28 countries with approximately 42,000 employees. The company leverages its global network of aircraft, defense and intelligence, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, Textron Systems and Textron Financial Corporation. More information is available at www.textron.com.

Some other companies have recently published top resort lists which are helpful.  Stroman Realty decided to submit this list which shows the current top resorts that are actually selling now during the financial crisis and not just a list from previous years which included drastically different economic times.  The top 10 list provides everyone with a closer look into which resort timeshare properties are presently being sold.  The diversity of resort destinations below represents a continuous demand for purchasing timeshare vacation resorts in areas where some real estate markets have seen a significant downturn.

Here is the current list of the Top 10 Timeshare Resale Resorts for 2009

1. Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas- Newport Coast, CA

Where you can find panoramic views from the coastal canyons and beautiful landscapes with preserved splendor, Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas provide a memorable vacation spot for families and a haven for golf enthusiast. The area encompasses nearly 10,000 acres with many luscious golf courses and beautiful scenic landscapes.

2. Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas- Lahaina  Maui, HI

One of Hawaii’s most popular vacation spots, Maui offers all levels of vacationing adventures ranging from memorable site seeing to unforgettable beaches.  With a vast selection of shops and stores, Maui offers excellent opportunities to browse and shop for goods offered by the Island economy. The culture of Hawaii is alluring for many vacationers and the Island’s geological features offer diversity and wonder.

3. HGV Club at Flamingo – Las Vegas, NV

Las Vegas has long been the center of fun and entertainment for many vacation goers with an alluring night life and a plethora of casinos.  Recently, Las Vegas has experienced a downturn in the local economy and has experienced fewer casino patrons than usual.  This has affected the vacationing and tourist industry minimally, and because of the economic downturn, timeshare buyers are finding great bargains in this tempting Hilton Grand Vacation Club location.

4. Four Seasons Resort Aviara – Carlsbad, CA

If you are a wine aficionado, a trip to wine country is less than an hour from Carlsbad.  The beautiful Temecula Valley is a host to many wine enthusiasts year round.  Whether your tastes direct you to the many of the antique and curio stores in Carlsbad village, or your love of photography guides you to the Carlsbad flower fields, you are sure to find your interests fulfilled in the lovely city of Carlsbad.

5. HGV at Las Vegas Hilton- Las Vegas, NV

If you enjoy the excitement and nightlife of Vegas, The Hilton Grand Vacation Club at Las Vegas will offer great accommodations within minutes from the lively Las Vegas Strip.  Described as an extraordinary private enclave, this resort offers amenities such as a heated pool and whirlpool spa, picnic areas, barbecue grills and a fitness center in the exclusive recreation center.

6. Westin Kierland Villas – Scottsdale, AZ

The requirements of a great vacation vary from one person to the next, and the diversity offered by Scottsdale AZ makes this area a great destination. Scottsdale offers exciting attractions such as Jeep or Hummer Tours, Equestrian ranches, and the renowned Scottsdale Arts Festival.  The Westin Kierland Villas offer a chance to experience a beautiful desert resort, and access to over 174 golf courses. Truly a gem in the desert, the vacationing opportunities offered by The Westin Kierland Villas will be an experience you will never forget.

7. HGVClub at Sea World Orlando- Orlando, FL

For decades, Sea World has been a prime Adventure Park for many vacationers. The Hilton Grand Vacation Club at Sea World Orlando has been described as a reminiscent of a Bermudan seaside village and offers luxury villas, extravagant swimming pools with poolside restraint and bar, a movie theater and a Kid’s Club.  HGV Club as Sea World is only minutes from many Central Florida Attractions, and is a popular Florida destination.

8. Marriott’s Kauai Beach Club- Lihue Kauai, HI

Kauai is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands and offers contains some of the most beautiful coast lines in the pacific. The Geographical features of the island are diverse and astounding offering mountain peaks, luscious valleys, and scenic canyons. Marriott’s Kauai Beach Club sits on an 800 acre beachfront resort amid lagoons and gardens and is an excellent place to stay that puts you within reach of many of Kauai’s attractions.

9. WorldMark Resorts by Wyndham – multiple destinations

World Mark Owners are given a variety of resort destinations to choose from in locations such as California, Florida, Texas Arizona and several other States as well as locations Canada.  World Mark resorts offer a variety in vacation tastes as well as flexibility in planning and accommodations.
      
10. Harborside Resort at Atlantis – Nassau Paradise Island, Bahamas

Described as one of the world’s premier vacation playgrounds, Harborside Resort at Atlantis is themed as the lost world of Atlantis with a persona of amazement and wonder. With unique attractions, such as the world’s largest marine habitat,  a casino, exciting water parks and world class shopping, there is no doubt that Harborside is one of the most requested resorts in the timeshare industry.

Summary:

Stroman Realty’s Top 10 list is based on current year to date sales which are pending (sales in escrow) from resorts world wide.  These resort timeshare re-sales include buyers and sellers who have contracted to purchase or sell with a licensed Stroman Timeshare Specialist in 2009.  Even with the current economic situation timeshares are still selling and buyers continue to look at the resale market for good deals on vacation ownership properties.

If you want to see the list and properties for sale go to website address: www.TimeShareLink.com.

Wyndham Worldwide (NYSE:WYN), one of the world’s largest hospitality companies, has expanded the innovative Women on Their Way program to include an online community where women can exchange ideas, request advice and share tips on topics ranging from family travel to great books to read on the road.

Users will be able to sign up for a free membership to become contributors to the online community. Members may post to message boards on topics including: girlfriend getaways, travel with pets, romantic trips, multi-generational travel, business travel, safety tips, destination weddings and honeymoons, budget travel, GLBT-friendly travel and more.

In addition to the online message boards, the community features two travel blogs. Musings from Jane Air is a weekly blog penned by veteran travel journalist Laura Powell that discusses the plights and nuances of being on the road and in the air as a career woman, dotted with tips and suggestions on various travel topics.

Adventures with Alyson, the leisure family travel blog penned by Alyson R. Johnson of Wyndham Worldwide, discusses everything from traveling with children to recommended products that are useful to moms on the road.

“Women on Their Way is about recognizing, supporting and celebrating women while providing a resource to help them research, plan and book all their travel, giving them ideas on how to make the most of their valuable time away from work and their everyday lives,” said Virginia Wilson, Women on Their Way Advisory Board chairperson and executive vice president and chief financial officer for Wyndham Worldwide. “The message boards will give these passionate travelers a forum to share their travel experiences, request and give advice and create a community with like-minded women.”

Women on Their Way is the hospitality industry’s longest-running branded program entirely dedicated to female travelers. Since the program’s launch in 1995, Wyndham has supported women travelers as they’ve emerged from a niche market to a formidable force, listening and responding to women’s feedback, which has resulted in a better hotel experience for all travelers; including the addition of various amenities to hotel rooms such as coffee makers, full length mirrors and healthier room service menus.

The Women on Their Way program was re-launched in May 2008. While once a single hotel chain program, Wyndham Worldwide expanded the program across all brands and businesses offering more than 70,000 hotels, vacation rentals and resorts in 100 countries.

About Wyndham Worldwide Corporation

As one of the world’s largest hospitality companies, Wyndham Worldwide offers individual consumers and business–to–business customers a broad suite of hospitality products and services across various accommodation alternatives and price ranges through its premier portfolio of world–renowned brands. Wyndham Hotel Group encompasses more than 7,040 franchised hotels and approximately 592,900 hotel rooms worldwide. Group RCI offers its nearly 3.7 million members access to more than 73,000 vacation properties located in approximately 100 countries. Wyndham Vacation Ownership develops, markets and sells vacation ownership interests and provides consumer financing to owners through its network of over 150 vacation ownership resorts serving over 830,000 owners throughout North America, the Caribbean and the South Pacific. Wyndham Worldwide, headquartered in Parsippany, N.J., employs approximately 27,000 employees globally.

For more information about Wyndham Worldwide, please visit the Company’s web site at www.wyndhamworldwide.com.
CONTACT:
Alyson R. Johnson
Director, Media Relations
Wyndham Worldwide
(973) 753.6759
Alyson.Johnson@wyndhamworldwide.com

Jim Lewis, president of Disney Vacation Club, a growing vacation ownership division of The Walt Disney Company, has been elected Chairman of the American Resort Development Association (ARDA), the national trade association representing the vacation ownership industry.

“ARDA and the vacation ownership industry are fortunate to have Jim Lewis’ leadership during this particularly challenging time in our history,” said Howard C. Nusbaum, RRP, ARDA’s president and CEO. “Jim’s passion for the product and in-depth knowledge of the industry puts ARDA in very capable hands at a time when the industry needs to work together. His personal integrity and commitment to industry excellence makes him the right leader at the right time.”

Since 1991, Disney Vacation Club has been a growing vacation ownership business which includes eight themed Disney Vacation Club Resorts, more than 400,000 individual members from approximately 100 countries and every U.S. state, and more than 2,000 employees (known as Cast Members).  Jim has led Disney Vacation Club to more than double its business since 2003.
As part of the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Worldwide Operations Steering Committee, Jim helps develop the vision and strategy for this global business, managing performance expectations, technology application, product-investment levels, competitive positioning, expansion, and talent development. 

“It is both an honor and a humbling responsibility to have been chosen by my peers to lead the Association at this unique time. I am confident that, together, we will work through the present economic obstacles and continue to provide the excellent family vacation experiences that millions of Americans want and deserve,” said Jim Lewis.

Lewis is a Certified Public Accountant, and holds an MBA from the Krannert School of Business at Purdue University , where he received the Distinguished Alumni Award. Lewis serves on the board of Rejoice in the Lord Ministries and represents Disney on the board of Florida Hospital . He recently served as Chairman of the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce and in 2007 was named as one of the ten most influential businessmen in Central Florida by the Orlando Business Journal. A leader on the ARDA Board of Directors since 2004, Lewis will serve as chairman for two years.

About ARDA
The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) is the Washington D.C.-based professional association representing the vacation ownership and resort development industries. Established in 1969, ARDA today has over 1,000 corporate members ranging from privately held firms to publicly traded companies and international corporations with expertise in shared ownership interests in leisure real estate. The membership also includes timeshare owner associations (HOAs), resort management companies, and owners through the ARDA Resort Owners Coalition (ARDA-ROC).