Date: 14-16 September 2009
Location: Broadgate, London, England
Website: FractionalLifeExpo.com

Date: 12-13 October 2009
Location: Millennium Resort, Patong Beach, Phuket, Thailand
Website: Coming Soon…

Targeted Audience – Hotel & resort owners, developers, operators, management companies, vacation ownership and fractional sales & marketing companies, real estate developers, tourism authorities, lifestyle companies & press

Key note speakers:

(not in order)

Dick Ragatz – Ragatz Associates – USA – Industry’s most well respected and renowned Shared Ownership guru with more than 25 years of experience.

Nick Turner – Registry Collection, European Managing Director – Fractional Ownership Exchange company with 135 high end exclusive properties.

Joseph Hickman – Interval International – Asia Pacific Executive Director – vacation Ownership guru offering member exchanges to 2,000 plus of the worlds most luxurious timeshare resorts including Marriott Vacation Club

Marina Kleiman – Managing Director – Banyan Tree Private Collection
Asia’s most luxurious high end Fractional Ownership club

Barry Robinson – CEO & President – Wyndham Vacation Ownership Asia Pacific – part of one of the world’s largest brand hotel & resort operators explaining how vacation ownership is done in Australia and why his company is heading to Thailand and Asia in general.

Bryan Lunt – Chairman – Absolute Group of Companies. Thailand’s most established vacation ownership club, fractional ownership developer and property developers. Ten years of solid experience in Thailand and Asia with the invaluable knowledge extending through selling to a global customer base (Inclusive of the Thai nationals) Not to be missed.

This inaugural conference will position Thailand’s many shared ownership companies and their exponential opportunities clearly onto the world map. With Thailand not only offering itself as a mega-growth opportunity destination, but also as a future ‘must have a place in’ destination, to really project the elements of investment and lifestyle to the maximum level. Team this with Thailand’s wonderful reputation as ‘the land of a thousand smiles’, boasting its warmth, service and hospitality like no other country in Asia and it becomes more obvious to the secret of why so many simply love the place and from all regions globally. The final combination of endless golden beaches, restaurants and attractions, with all still at relatively low cost, in conjunction with so many new low cost airlines all heading to Thailand, it is clear why the opportunities just continue to present themselves over and over again here in this glorious country.

Learn about all the generic products of vacation ownership and fractional ownership, with its basic format and all the various options available – see and hear all the pro’s and con’s – with vacation ownership and fractional ownership in direct comparison. What is a Private Residence Club and how does that differ to a Destination Club? Learn all this in one and a half days. Discover how these mass revenue stream creators are managed with the specific sales / marketing techniques. Learn how back office management and reservation systems put resorts / management on the global map. Have a serious introduction into how fractional finance can raise the revenue to market, sell and build out a project with full profit retention and release in a structured and organized method. Listen to what is required to know about the legalities involved in all aspects of operating in the fastest growing sector of the tourism industry worldwide, here in Thailand.

When most industries have slowed down or are slowing down, find out why both vacation ownership and fractional ownership are booming; find out what to look for and what to be aware of when investing in key management staff, advisors and marketing companies; and how to make due diligence, serious analysis of marketing and sales proposals before investing money to make more money. Look at tax efficiency both onshore and offshore.

Breakout round table sessions with industry experts explaining to you first hand how, why and what you need to know on subjects such as accountability, marketing techniques and options, sales methods (the good and the bad), trustee roles within vacation ownership, exchange company services and co-operation, and of course legalities. If you have been lost in the mayhem of global economic turndown and constant talk of gloom, come and spend time with like positive, forward thinking experts who can give you the lift that you seek. Shake off the victim feel, form a plan and work that plan.

Both independent and branded hospitality groups such as Marriott, Hyatt, Wyndham, Accor and Disney who understand business models perfectly have entered either the vacation ownership or the fractional sales arena without hesitation, for one reason… the creation of massive additional revenue streams and enhanced profitability, with the extension and lifting up of their brand as market leaders and a desire to create a more loyal client to your brand… no-one today can miss this opportunity of extra revenue and an increase of cash flow from advanced selling of hotel rooms and apartments, whether you own or manage a special purpose-built shared ownership resort, a potential conversion or a renovation project, at Phuket’s first ever International Shared Ownership conference you will find out exactly what your best options are and meet people who can help you achieve your goals… no longer be alone or have to travel to the America’s to find the experts, let the experts come to you…

Book early to avoid disappointment and take advantage of early bird rates.

Come and enjoy the wonderful hospitality of Phuket on the west coast of Thailand. The dates have been positioned so that you can arrive during the weekend before the seminar begins and take in the beaches, the golf, the sights, the food, the hospitality and maximize the opportunity for relaxation before we open your mind to the potential that lies within this sector of the hospitality industry. Arrive early and enjoy, for the best of both worlds. Knowledge really is power.

Luxury fractional ownership and timeshare magazine significantly extends affluent reach by securing a distribution deal for BA airport lounges worldwide.

Owners Perspective Magazine which focuses on all aspects of vacation property ownership and luxury travel has now added more than 100 British Airways airport lounges to its global distribution campaign enabling it to be read by large numbers of affluent first class and business class passengers.

“With so many magazine titles available around the world, we are delighted that British Airways have selected our consumer publication for customers in their lounges across the globe which will help us to educate even more people on the benefits of shared ownership products and all the luxuries associated with the more modern product types.” Says Paul Mattimoe, CEO, Perspective International Ltd.

Owners Perspective Magazine offers an independent look at resort real estate, fractional property ownership, high end timeshares, private residence clubs, boutique hotels and luxury travel services, providing print and online reviews, buying guides, advice, hints and tips.

Available by individual print subscription (as well as free of charge online), and via leading UK Tesco & Sainsbury’s supermarkets, selected Macdonald Hotels & Resorts and Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, Emirates Airlines and British Airways airport lounges around the world.

For more information visit http://www.ownersperspective.com
For details on advertising and editorial opportunities visit http://www.perspectiverates.com

The South African Hotel Group the Zorgvliet  (pronounced Zor-fleet) has announced a number of unique vacation ownership options featuring special experiences across its five resorts and lodges ahead of the country’s biggest sporting event, the FIFA Football World Cup in 2010. Even at this early stage it is obvious that there will not be enough accommodation available in South Africa over the World Cup period to accommodate the expected half million football fans and media that will flock to the country. Organisers are already reserving additional accommodation in neighboring African countries and considering using cruise liners off the South African shoreline.

The Zorgvliet Group, which has authentic South African lodges and hotels in locations close to many of the World Cup stadia, is launching vacation ownership through its newly formed Private Residence Club (ZPRC) to offer accommodation during the event that will also be of benefit beyond the World Cup.

Vacation ownership is available at:

-  Ka’Ingo Private Game Reserve & Spa in the Limpopo district where the big 5 game can be viewed and only 60 minutes drive from the Peter Mokaba Sports Complex in Polokwane,

-The Riviera On Vaal Hotel which is a five star country and golf club south west of Johannesburg and only 30 minutes drive from the newly constructed Soccer City Stadium and 35 Minutes from Ellis Park in central Johannesburg;

- Zorgvliet Vineyard Estate and Alluvia Specialist Winery near Stellenbosch which is 40 minutes drive from the new Green Point Stadium in Cape Town.

- The King George Hotel in George on the Garden Route which is a short flight or 4 hour drive to the Green Point Stadium in Cape Town.

FIFA estimates that 55,000 hotel rooms will be required to accommodate the visitors, some 15,000 more than are currently available. Last year it was forced to accredit guest houses, private lodges and backpacker hostels to help make up the numbers. FIFA’s accommodation agency has reserved thousands of rooms in neighbouring countries, including 4,000 on Mauritius, a holiday island that takes four-and-a-half hours to reach by air.

The Zorgvliet Group specialises in educational, authentic and sometimes life-changing experiences at each of its locations which will be of particular interest to those wanting to extend their trip, or for partners of football fans left to their own devices. For example guests can get involved in critically important conservation projects at Ka’Ingo private reserve such as leopard and cheetah re-releases, ‘clean’ buffalo breeding, white rhino and animal welfare programmes. Vacation owners can also contribute by adopting animals such as the elephant, lion, buffalo bull or cheetah and get regular updates about their progress.
At the Zorgvliet Vineyard Lodge & Spa and Alluvia Specialist Winery, an award winning wine estate outside Stellenbosch, vacation owners can participate in the actual wine making process alongside the viticulturist and wine maker. Also included as part of the vacation ownership is barrel sampling, complimentary wine tasting with the winemaker, and lessons in food and wine pairing plus an allocation of 24 bottles of wine per year with a personalised label.

Vacation ownership can be purchased for a period of 12 years for as little as R66,000 (approx £5500) for 1 week usage allocation for 12 years,  or in perpetuity for as little as R120,000 (approx £10000). The option makes a lot of sense especially as the cost of accommodation at Zorgvliet’s five star hotels is typically £1100 to £1300 per week and rates over the World Cup period are expected to soar with the anticipated lack of hotel accommodation. The vacation weeks are floating and insightful buyers can ensure allocation over the Football World Cup period for a marginal premium.

Mac van der Merwe, CEO of the Zorgvliet Group says: “We have found that people are beginning to demand more ‘experiential’ type holidays. Rather than just visiting a place they are keen to learn something new or immerse themselves in the culture or environment. With participation in the conservation projects at Ka’Ingo they also will be making a contribution to a very worthwhile cause whilst learning about how they can make a difference to the natural environment around them.”

Vacations bought in the Zorgvliet Private Residence Club can be exchanged at more than 2000 global resorts worldwide through the company’s affiliation to Interval International, a global holiday exchange programme. So for sports fans they can exchange their week in following years in other countries hosting a big sporting event.

Information sessions and presentations about vacation ownership will be taking place at venues in the UK and Ireland in August through to October 2009. For more information call 0800 0469196

Well-known resort industry professional Richard Ragatz Ph.D. behind online site for buyers and sellers of resort real estate projects

RAGATZ ASSOCIATES, INC. has recently announced the creation of Resort and Hotel Showcase, an international website-based advertising service for the resort real estate industry, including existing resort developments, as well as vacant land appropriate for resort development, hotels and shared-ownership projects (fractional interests and resort timeshare).

“Showcase is the only known advertising service that totally concentrates on the resort real estate industry,” says Ragatz. “The objective is to provide a central clearinghouse for sellers and buyers of resort-oriented property.”

“The validity of Showcase is founded on the unique qualifications that Ragatz Associates has attained over the past 35 years,” he continues. “The firm has worked on over 2,500 assignments in 48 states and over 70 countries. Also, I’ve spoken at over 350 conferences around the world. Such experience has generated contact with literally tens of thousands of professionals in the resort real estate industry, including existing and potential developers, investors, lenders, attorneys and many others.”

Ragatz adds, “We promote Showcase not only to our own past contacts, but we also use Search Engine Optimization, advertising in appropriate trade publications and newsletters, networking at numerous industry meetings and conferences and the use of social media.”

Showcase provides a focused website whereby sellers of resorts and hotels can advertise the availability of their properties to a worldwide audience of potential buyers. It is intended solely for entire properties, and not for individual homes, homesites, fractional interests, memberships, etc.

Until now, selling and buying of resort-oriented properties and hotels has been a very fragmented process, with no central depository. Demonstrating the availability of properties for sale has typically depended on local brokers, word-of-mouth, and inclusion with other forms of non-related real estate. Finding such properties has typically depended on time-consuming searches.

For more information about how to list a project for sale or to view available properties, visit www.ragatzassociates.com or call 1-800-348-6357.

About RAGATZ ASSOCIATES
RAGATZ ASSOCIATES is a highly respected international consulting and market research firm in the resort real estate industry. It was founded in 1974 by Dr. Richard Ragatz and has serviced clients from both the private sector (from small, individually owned companies to international corporations) and the public sector (from small municipalities to national governments). The firm has worked on over 2,500 assignments in the resort real estate industry in 48 states and over 70 countries.

Holiday Club Resorts (HCR) has announced that Holiday Club Naantali Residence in Naantali, Finland, has affiliated with RCI, the worldwide leader in vacation exchange.

Opened in May this year, Holiday Club Naantali Residence has 40 high-quality studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments, all with sea views, and is located next to Naantali Spa, one of the Nordic countries’ leading holiday and conference centres. The complex attracts 300,000 visitors a year and has received many accolades from the hospitality industry, including being named twice in the world’s 100 best spas and five times as the meeting hotel of the year in Finland – most recently this year.

Holiday Club Naantali Residence is the 21st timeshare resort to be launched by HCR and is set to become its flagship development. Vesa Tengman, HCR’s CEO, said he expects a strong demand from Swedish, as well as Finnish buyers. Adding that the company will be opening a new sales office at the property and recruiting 25 new sales and marketing staff.

“RCI invented the exchange business 35 years ago and has been the innovator and leader ever since,” said Tengman. “Its diverse selection of resorts the world over delivers the highest quality vacations to its members. Being associated with RCI has always been important to Holiday Club Resorts and it was always our intention to bring Holiday Club Naantali Residence into the RCI network. Furthermore, RCI offers exciting technological resources and marketing advantages for us, as well as the largest possible selection of vacation resorts for our timeshare owners. We are very pleased to continue working with them.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Holiday Club Naantali Residence into the RCI network,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO, Group RCI. “This beautiful resort is a tremendous addition to the collection of top vacation destinations we offer to RCI members.”

Apartments at Naantali Spa Residence have partial kitchens and well-equipped living spaces, while the resort offers a variety of facilities for guests, including a host of indoor and outdoor activities on-site. Guests can relax in the soothing waters of the spa, burn up some energy on the tennis courts or enjoy a delicious meal in one of the many on-site restaurants and cafés.

About Holiday Club Resorts
Holiday Club Resorts Oy owns holiday homes in 12 different municipalities in Finland, a holiday destination in Calahonda, Spain, as well as Holiday Club Åre and Ekerum Golf & Resorts (Öland) holiday destinations in Sweden. Holiday Club’s six spa hotels in Finland have belonged to the S-Group’s subsidiary, Sokotel, since April 2006, and they operate under the name Holiday Club Spa Hotels. The chain comprises Holiday Club Caribia in Turku, Katinkulta in Vuokatti, Tropiikki in Kuusamo, Eden in Oulu, Saariselkä and Tampere Spa. Holiday Club Resorts Oy is one of Europe’s largest vacation ownership enterprises. It was established in 1986 and in the beginning it focused primarily on the vacation ownership business. Since 1998, the company has operated under the name Holiday Club Finland Oy. In 2008, the Group’s turnover was EUR 65 million. As of 1 April 2006 Holiday Club Finland Oy began operating under the name Holiday Club Resorts Oy.

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, 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.

Odenza Marketing Group Inc. is pleased to announce that the company has acquired DealerMiles LLC, provider of airline miles rewards based out of Denver, Colorado. Odenza’s vision is to combine the operational strengths of Odenza with the powerful loyalty message of DealerMiles. Providing companies with products that help them with both new sales acquisition and customer retention to grow business will strengthen Odenza’s leadership position in the incentive and premium market.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for Odenza and DealerMiles is a great fit with our group,” said Odenza’s president, Sodi Hundal. “I know where DealerMiles is going and it is closely aligned with our goals and objectives at Odenza. I am thankful for the support and enthusiasm that Odenza has received regarding this acquisition from our employees, clients and affiliates. Our commitment to our clients’ business growth and success remains unabated.”

Odenza Marketing Group was recently accepted into Carnival Cruise Lines’ “Pinnacle Club” for a third time effective June 2, 2009 for demonstrating exceptional creativity in sales and marketing techniques. Odenza had also won three prestigious awards from the Gallery of Superb Printing Awards held by the International Association of Printing House Craftsmen, an independent network of graphic arts and printing professionals. The annual International Gallery of Superb Printing is a testament to the people and companies involved in producing the finest printing and graphic arts products throughout the world.

About DealerMiles:
DealerMiles works with hundreds of auto dealerships nationwide to enable consumers to earn incremental airline miles. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, DealerMiles works with franchised dealerships of every brand, including Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Honda, Toyota, Infiniti, Nissan, Volvo, and others.

About Odenza Marketing Group Inc.
Odenza provides quality marketing solutions that give our select clients a competitive edge in their market. With a staff of 200 employees, in three countries, Odenza has been providing incentive travel products to companies for their promotions since 1998. Our marketing and advertising support team provides you with everything you need to make your promotion a success. We are members of the American Resort Development Association, New Car Dealers Association and the International Promotional Products Association. Our in-house travel agency is staffed by certified and experienced travel agents who work directly with your customers to book their vacations. We have direct partnerships with major airlines, cruise lines, hotels and resorts worldwide.

Aircraft charter company Revolution Air offers secure, flexible, and affordable travel options as an alternative to fractional membership and launches an online, web-based charter quoting tool

Revolution Air, a charter broker company providing private jet charter services and travel solutions, offers details on the differences between charter aircraft operations and ownership of a fractional membership. To assist customers in making informed decisions on the best type of travel, Revolution Air has also launched an online tool on their website that provides quotes on charter travel.

Fractional membership is a long-term commitment, and fractional operations are governed by FAA Part 91 regulations. With fractional membership, the customer pays an up-front acquisition cost to purchase ownership of a portion of an aircraft, which is shared with other fractional members. The investment is tied into the fractional program along with additional monthly management fees to ensure the aircraft is fully staffed, maintained, insured, and protected in a hangar. Normally, after five years, a fractional owner has the option to remarket shares in the aircraft at current market value, less a remarketing fee.

Charter flights offer travel on an on-demand basis, and their operations are subject to FAA Part 135 regulations, which offer different rulings than Part 91, specifically in regards to duty time regulations and prevention of crew fatigue. By contacting charter brokers like Revolution Air or other providers, customers can choose locations and aircraft based on their immediate travel needs, which offers flexibility and the opportunity to tailor travel requirements to enable economical solutions.

“For some individuals and organizations, long-term fractional ownership of a specific aircraft or chartering with larger companies may be in their best interest, and we encourage customers to choose that option if it fits their needs,” said Ron Goldstein, president of Revolution Air. “For others, the flexibility offered by using a charter broker company like Revolution Air delivers a solution that is nimble, customizable, and offers the choice of aircraft tailored to their travel needs, which can often result in better pricing. Charter travel with Revolution Air also offers personalized service, overseeing all the travel details, from on-board amenities to the distribution of up-to-the minute itinerary information.”

To help customers determine if using charter aircraft is their best option for travel, Revolution Air has added new functionality to its website www.revolutionair.com with an online quoting system for charter flights. This tool enables customers to create a quote based upon their airports of choice and date of departure. Once the quote itinerary is submitted, the customer is contacted directly by a charter specialist to determine the precise needs and requirements of the flight. A finalized quote is then built and submitted back to the customer.

About Revolution Air
Founded in October of 2003, Revolution Air has provided private air charter and transportation solutions for high-profile individuals and many corporate organizations. With locations in New York City, New York, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Revolution Air provides access to air charter jets seating 6 to 15 passengers or larger VIP-configured business jets accommodating 15 to 150 or more passengers. Its beyond-first-class air charter services offer a safe and secure flight environment with a dedicated flight team who manages every nuance and personal request for each trip, from the on-board amenities to the distribution of up-to-the minute itinerary information. Revolution Air prides itself on delivering travel for the finest 21st century lifestyle. At Revolution Air, our world revolves around you. For more information regarding Revolution Air, visit www.revolutionair.com, e-mail info(at)revolutionair.com, or call 866-REV-JETS or 212-755-2000

SCS Interactive puts the “splash” back into the splash park market with its new HydroLine™. The splash park concept has grown in popularity over the last 10 years and can now be found in municipal aquatic centers, parks, campgrounds, hotels, water parks, and resorts. It not only provides fun and excitement for children of all ages, but also requires a minimal capital investment, has low operating costs, and requires minimal supervision. With the HydroLine™, SCS brings “hands on” interactivity, climbable structures with tipping buckets and iconic elements to this market, offering a true waterpark experience in a small package.

The SCS Interactive HydroLine™ is made of all stainless steel. Within the HydroLine™ you will be able to choose from many product categories:

HydroDek™:
SCS Interactive’s HydroDek™ offers a unique approach to ground sprays and above ground spray elements. The HydroDek™ combines the best of SCS; it has SCS industry leading interactivity combined with SCS Interactive’s ability to create iconic attractions, all available now in a competitively priced package.

HydroStructures:
SCS Interactive’s HydroStructures were designed with affordability and creativity in mind. These structures feature the SCS patented tipping bucket and were created to function as one element on a HydroDek or to be a stand-alone iconic structure.

HydroSlides:
Along with offering the industry standard in slides, SCS Interactive offers a variety of stainless steel slides to complement the HydroLine. Whether you are looking to add a slide to an existing pool or you want to add a new level of interactivity to a HydroDek, the SCS HydroSlides offer the ideal solution.

HydroPhone:
SCS Interactive introduces the HydroPhone. The HydroPhone is a musical instrument that makes music out of water. You can use it as a stand alone attraction or add one to your HydroDek to bring it to life with music.

SCS is thrilled to be an innovator in this market, because it can offer clients new design options that bring heightened excitement to the splash park market. Take a moment to check out the SCS HydroLine™ Catalog. Trust SCS Interactive to continuously invent new interactive water attractions to keep the play experience fresh, exciting and unique time after time.

About SCS Interactive
SCS Interactive is the source of great waterparks. SCS has revolutionized the waterplay industry as the originator of the multi-level interactive tree house concept, the creator of the giant tipping bucket seen at amusement and water parks around the world, and the developer of the world’s first wet and dry water coaster known as SplashTrack™. Some of the biggest resorts, amusement and waterparks all over the globe showcase SCS Interactive structures as signature attractions. Additional information about SCS Interactive can be found on the website at scsinteractive.com.

Travelers Acceptance Corporation announces the appointment of Robert Dugger to lead its Vacation Ownership finance business as “Managing Director, Vacation Ownership Finance”.

Prior to joining Travelers Acceptance, Robert held the position of Vice President – Relationship Manager with the Resort Finance Division at Textron Financial Corporation where he was responsible for new business development in North America with primary responsibility for vacation ownership financing in Canada. Prior to Textron Financial, he held positions as a commercial loan manager and credit manager in the banking and commercial finance business.

Using his extensive background in commercial finance, Robert’s mission is to further develop and expand Travelers position within the Vacation Ownership Industry finding solutions for businesses in satisfying their consumer financing needs. He has built a reputation as an expert and has shared his industry knowledge serving as a panelist at industry conferences.

Robert welcomes his new challenge with eagerness & aspiration. “Given the current state of the industry, it is wonderful to be able to contribute in such a meaningful way to the ongoing success and future growth of the Canadian Vacation Ownership Industry.”

About Travelers:
Travelers Acceptance Corporation has since 1974 been engaged by businesses to arrange, structure and fund unique indirect consumer financing solutions across a wide range of industries including tuition, automotive aftermarket, vacation ownership, healthcare, membership, consumer durables, power products and home improvements. Travelers consults with its client partners to create term financing programs that attract and retain more clients, close more sales, and increase overall profitability. For more information about Travelers Consumer Finance visit http://www.travelersacceptance.com.

Sell My Timeshare NOW, a leader in the advertising and marketing of timeshare resales and timeshare rentals, is ramping up its social marketing commitment, providing more outlets for consumer interaction through widely available, internet-based relational media. Already using Twitter, blogging on its popular corporate blog The Timeshare Authority, and interacting with the marketplace through the SellMyTimeshareNOW Forum, the company will soon launch a Facebook fan site, as it continues to expand its social media presence.

CEO and founder Jason Tremblay says, “Sell My Timeshare NOW has always led the industry in using cutting-edge internet marketing strategies to create maximum visibility for timeshare owners who want to sell or rent timeshare. We take the same forward-thinking approach to social media marketing, using it to expand our relationships with timeshare buyers, renters, sellers and everyone who wants to know more about enjoying timeshare vacations.”

Sell My Timeshare NOW utilizes Twitter as a way to update consumers about timeshare resale and timeshare rental opportunities and offer personable insights about timeshare and vacation ownership. The company tweets here: @JasonTremblay_; @VacationHotDeal; and @SteveLuba.

Sell My Timeshare NOW’s blog, The Timeshare Authority, was one of the first publications to serve both timeshare owners and the timeshare industry. Tremblay explains, “When we started writing The Timeshare Authority blog nearly five years ago, many people really didn’t understand what a blog was or why we were going to the trouble of doing it. Now we publish Monday through Saturday and have thousands of readers each week.”

The company’s Forum is an online discussion board that provides consumers a place to interact with Sell My Timeshare NOW and with each other regarding timeshare ownership, selling or renting timeshare, or buying timeshare resales. Director of Communications Steve Luba says that although some timeshare companies maintain websites, these sites are limiting because they do not look at the industry as a whole. Today’s timeshare resale buyer or timeshare renter wants to know the bigger picture and to be able to compare options and make decision that are best for the way he and his family vacation. Sell My Timeshare NOW is committed to expanding its consumer education and communication, seeking to fill the need for timely, meaningful industry-wide timeshare news and updates.

The ONLY salary study for the timeshare/vacation ownership/fractional/hospitality industry

Keith W. Trowbridge, Ph.D. president of Executive Quest, Inc. www.execq.com has announced the results of the annual salary survey of the timeshare/vacation ownership/fractional industry.

“The salary figures for the 2009 study come from participants that originated from the 20,000+ contacts maintained by Executive Quest through its newsletter subscriptions.” A full copy of the salary study may be purchased at www.execq.com

Dr. Trowbridge wishes to thank all participants. As with last year, the survey included 31categories from Sales & Marketing, Finance, Human Resources, Resort Managers, CEO’s, CFO’s, etc.

Unlike last year, this industry has been affected by the recession. Decreases in tour flow and marketing occurred and the industry is suffering a very trying year. Estimates by Howard Nusbaum, President of American Resort Development Association (ARDA), project an 8% decrease in sales for 2009.

With many companies cutting back on marketing and tour flow, as may be expected, marketing and sales positions had the most decrease this past year. Regional marketing management together with vice presidents of marketing had a reduction in compensation of about 10% while sales and marketing directors as a group had reductions of 20%.

Due to the lower tour flow, the compensation for sales managers, vice presidents and regional vice presidents which are often tied to a percent of sales revenue had a negative 25% overall.

Administrative positions such as CFO, COO, HR or Operations management held steady on income. However, CEO, presidents, owners had a decrease of about 33% from the previous year as the economy and therefore the timeshare/fractional/vacation ownership/hospitality industry struggled.

We hope this salary study is helpful to you in your operation. We encourage you to use the figures for purposes of budgeting, hiring, promoting and training objectives. Of course, Executive Quest would be pleased to help you in your search for outstanding talent. Contact keith@execq.com or jim@execq.com

As these salary studies are important to everyone in the industry, and Executive Quest is the only firm to do an industry salary survey, I highly encourage you to participate in the next salary study.

A full copy of the salary study may be purchased at www.execq.com

By David M. Disick, Esq.

The Overall Opportunity
The current market provides a rare combination of circumstances that create a potential profit opportunity for developers and astute investors in today’s vacation home market.

By reason of the current economic climate, developers are able to purchase singlefamily residences at favorable prices and on favorable terms. They then can fractionalize and sell these residences, thus realizing increased sales revenues.

Opportunities to Acquire Luxury Properties Favorably
Developers and vacation home owners who wish to sell currently face significant challenges. These sellers have endured months and sometimes years of low offers or no offers at all. Understandably, prices have declined.

This creates an opportunity to buy properties at favorable prices and terms from homeowners and developers and from homeowners willing to sell a portion of their property and retain  one or more fractional interests for their own personal use.

Favorable terms to be negotiated may include: seller financing; extended escrow periods; obtaining marketing and sales control prior to closing; and, in some cases, obviating down payment requirements.

Opportunities to Generate Higher Revenues Through Fractional Sales
Fractionals offer potential for greater profit from a particular property than would otherwise be realized if it were sold as whole ownership. This is due to the growing public acceptance of fractional vacation home ownership. This is reflected by the rapid growth of the industry segment and the fact that fractionals have outperformed other segments of the vacation real estate market, even in times of economic downturn.

Growth of Fractionals and Private Residence Clubs
Since the inception of fractionals and the more luxurious Private Residence Club (PRC) offerings in the early and mid-nineties, the industry has grown to $2 billion in 2007 sales and to $1.5 billion in 2008 sales.

According to Ragatz Associates (Ragatz), a leading industry feasibility analyst, existing fractional and PRC owners represent only about one and a half percent of incomequalified households. Significant further expansion of the industry can therefore be anticipated.

Vacationers respond favorably to fractional vacation home ownership because they believe there is little reason to pay one hundred percent of the cost of a vacation home used only a fraction of the year.

Increased Revenues to Developers and Investors
Vacation home industry experience is that revenues from vacation homes sold as fractionals generate one and a half to two times the proceeds of the home were it sold as whole ownership. The following examples illustrate why fractional sales can generate additional revenues.

Example 1
• Whole ownership price $5,000,000
• Fractional revenues at a 1.5 fractional multiplier $7,500,000
• Average price of a 1/10 fractional $750,000 or 15% of whole ownership cost

Example 2
• Whole ownership price $5,000,000
• Fractional revenues at a 1.75 fractional multiplier $8,750,000
• Average price of a 1/10 fractional $875,000 or 17.5% of whole ownership cost

Example 3
• Whole ownership price $5,000,000
• Fractional revenues at a 2.0 fractional multiplier $10,000,000
• Average price of a 1/10 fractional $1,000,000 or 20% of whole ownership cost

The lower price point of fractionals widens the pool of potential owners. Stated simply, there are far more potential purchasers willing and able to invest $750,000 in their vacation property than there are potential purchasers willing and able to invest $5 million in their vacation property.

Fractionals and PRCs in the Current Economic Climate
Many industry professionals believe that fractionals are the strongest segment of the vacation home ownership industry and will be the first to recover when the economy inevitably turns around. Today’s buyers realize that actual vacation home use is rarely more than a few weeks a year. For these buyers, fractional ownership makes good sense. This recognition is borne out by fractional sales statistics in 2007
and 2008.

Sales Performance of Fractionals in 2007
Ragatz has reported that 2007 Fractional and PRC sales increased 12.4% in sales volume and 8% in the average price per fraction over 2006. Another industry analyst, NorthCourse Leisure Real Estate Solutions, reported that 2007 fractional sales in the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean increased 20% over sales in 2006.

This is notably better than the performance of whole ownership real estate in 2007. The National Association of Realtors reported that sales of vacation homes in 2007 fell approximately 31% from 2006.

Sales Performance of Fractionals in 2008
Fractional sales did experience some decline in 2008. However, Ragatz reports that:

• North American fractional and PRC industry sales reached $1.52 billion in 2008.
• While this represented a drop of approximately 30% from 2007 sales, in contrast, sales of wholly owned second or vacation homes dropped by about 40%
• Moreover, the luxury fractional segment, PRCs, dropped only 24%

Another industry professional, Sherman D. Potvin, founder of the recognized website, Luxury Fractional Guide, has commented :

“Even in the economic downturn of 2008, the fractional market was still the fastest growing real estate product.”

“Despite the economy, fractional real estate is steadily selling, and… [though it] might not be selling as quickly…people are still buying.”

“Over the next year, we are going to see a substantial growth in the fractional industry. The good news is that people are not going to give up their lifestyle. They are still going to vacation in nice places. Because of the current economy, many of those people who would have otherwise purchased a wholly owned vacation home will turn to the alternative vacation home market and fractional real estate will be there waiting.”

Some Caveats
Though relatively simple in concept and potentially very profitable, implementing an offering of fractionalized vacation real estate is not for the uninitiated. A wide variety of skill sets is required for a
successful development.

Prior to embarking on this endeavor, one needs to consult, as needed, with legal and financial advisers. Potential acquisition properties need to be identified. These properties must have prime locations in prime
resorts. Zoning ordinances must be checked to see if fractional ownership is permitted. Financing sources need to be found and sometimes educated in fractionals.

The developer’s business plan needs to set forth the rate or return of, as well as return on, the investment. It should also include cash flow pro formas for best, worst and likely cases. Favorable acquisition price and
terms must be negotiated. Backup properties should be identified, if needed.

Properties need to be carefully inspected and any necessary repairs or improvements made. Furniture, furnishings and technology need to be complete and up to date.

Purchaser mortgage financing is currently very limited and may pose a challenge. A highly effective and experienced marketing and sales team needs to be assembled. Property management and concierge or
reception services must be in place. A fair, computerized reservation system needs to be installed. Automated bookkeeping and auditing procedures need to be instituted. Ownership and other legal
documents have to be drawn up.

In other words, do not attempt this alone.

Conclusions
Now is a good time for commencing the process of offering fractionalized vacation homes. As the economy recovers, it can be anticipated that this increasingly popular form of vacation home ownership will once again experience significant growth and will be the first market segment to rebound.

As the market turns around, there will be pent up demand from people who have delayed their vacation purchases due to economic uncertainties. Developers who are prepared to offer what vacation home owners want will be in an excellent position to profit from the resurging demand for fractional vacation home ownership.

David M. Disick is President of David M. Disick & Associates. He is among the pioneers of the fractional vacation home industry with his development of the luxury Private Residence Club, Franz Klammer Lodge in Telluride, Colorado. He is currently developing Club ElyséeSM. He may be reached at 435 659 9738 or at ddisick@msn.com.

The Fractional Life Expo is viewed by the fractional industry as the most diverse fractional ownership and asset-sharing exhibition in Europe. The event caters to the growing number of people who want to enjoy life’s luxuries – without the overhead, responsibilities and hassles that come with owning such possessions outright.

The Expo will be held at the prestigious Broadgate Event Venues which attracts the highest penetration of ABC1s in the UK Visitors from both the consumer and trade sectors of the market are welcome to attend the Expo free of charge.

Exhibitor opportunities are at a premium, with just 26 exhibition stands. The Fractional Life Expo will host a number of different fractional ownership and asset-sharing ‘zones:’ Property—houses, hotels, private residence and destination clubs; Motoring—classic vehicles and super cars; Sea—boats and yachts; Air—aircraft and jets; and, Lifestyle—wines and spirits, sport, handbags and other relevant assets, as well as investment opportunities. Many desirable fractional luxury products also will be displayed.

With the current decline in whole-ownership property sales, fractional ownership offers a lower entry price, reduced maintenance costs and greater use flexibility, presenting itself as an exciting product which maximizes the value of spend. Savvy consumers and developers alike are being drawn to the fractional ownership model in increasing numbers.  “Fractional Life has pioneered the creation of a marketplace for this product in Europe, making its 2009 Expo the ideal showcase for our products,” said Nick Turner, vice president and head of new business development, The Registry Collection programme, Europe. “Fractional ownership is a growing trend worldwide with over 350 fractional resorts in Europe and North America alone.

Our typical consumer has the money to potentially buy outright, but instead they value the flexibility and choice offered by a fractional purchase, which is further enriched if the buyer chooses to become a member of The Registry Collection programme. This unique luxury exchange programme gives buyers access to the largest number of fractional properties worldwide available for exchange, as well as to elite services such as 24/7 concierge and exclusive travel benefits. ”
Mr Turner will be meeting with exhibitors, prospective developers and others attending the show to present the benefits of The Registry Collection programme, which offers developers of upscale properties services that help generate qualified sales leads.

“With the success of the recent Fractional Summit 2009 trade event and the amount of fractional ownership products coming onto the marketplace, exciting times lie ahead,” said Piers Brown, founder of Fractional Life. “There will be something for everybody at the Expo and we’re delighted to be working alongside The Registry Collection programme and confident that 2009’s event will be even more innovative than last year—an outstanding event that our exhibitors, visitors and those in the fractional ownership industry were all proud to be a part of.”

For more information visit www.frationallifeexpo.com

The number of visits to the UK has fallen for the first time since 2001, the year that saw the outbreak of foot and mouth disease and the terrorist attacks of 9/11.

Figures for 2008, published today in the annual ONS report Travel Trends, show that overseas residents made 31.9 million visits to the UK last year, compared with 32.8 million in 2007 – a fall of 2.7 per cent.

The decline was particularly marked during the last quarter of the year, with visits falling by 13 per cent on the same period in 2007. Business visits were particularly hard hit with an overall fall of 25 per cent between the fourth quarter 2007 and the equivalent quarter in 2008.

Residents of the United Kingdom also made fewer visits abroad during the year. In total, 69.0 million visits were made, down 0.6 per cent on 2007. As with inbound visits, the downturn was felt most strongly during the last quarter when visits abroad dropped 9.0 per cent.

Most countries saw a drop in the number of residents visiting the UK during 2008, although there were modest increases in the number of visits from France (3.6 million, up 6.8 per cent) and the Republic of Ireland (3.1 million, up 3.4 per cent).

This, combined with a sharp drop in visits from the US (3.0 million, down from 3.6 million), meant that France took first place in the table of countries whose residents made the most visits to the UK. The Irish Republic rose to second place, while the USA slipped to third.

Among other countries whose residents paid more than half a million visits to the UK, there were also increases in the number of visits from Poland (1.5 million, up 15 per cent) and Norway (0.7 million, up 13 per cent).

The destination of UK residents travelling overseas remained broadly the same as in previous years. Spain and France dominated the list, accounting for 36 per cent of all visits (13.8 million and 10.9 million visits respectively), followed by the USA, the Irish Republic, Italy, Germany and Portugal. Visits to many countries fell during 2008, but there were some exceptions with large increases in visits to Romania, Mexico, Egypt and Slovakia (all up 30 per cent or more).

Despite the decline in the number of visits, spending on trips both to and from the UK reached record levels during 2008. Overseas residents coming to the UK spent a total of £16.3 billion, an increase of 2.3 per cent on the 2007 figure, while spending by UK residents overseas rose 5.2 per cent to £36.8 billion.

Regionally, London remained by far the most-visited city by overseas residents, with a total of 14.8 million visits, followed by Edinburgh (1.2 million), Manchester (0.9 million), Birmingham (0.8 million) and Glasgow (0.6 million).

Also in this year’s report:

   •  Visits to the UK were divided fairly evenly by purpose, between
   holidays, visiting friends and relatives, and business

   •  Visits abroad by UK residents were dominated by holidays with nearly
   two-thirds of trips for this purpose

   •  Air travel accounted for 75 per cent of visits to the UK and 81 per
   cent of visits overseas

   •  USA residents spent the most in total while visiting the UK (£2.2
   billion, or 14 per cent of all spending by overseas residents)

   •  Britons spent the most per day, on average, in Luxembourg (£277).
   This also involved one of the shortest average stays anywhere for UK
   residents, of only three nights.

   •  Overseas visitors spent the most per day, on average, in St Andrews
   (£147)

   •  Residents from Belgium and the Irish Republic had the shortest stays,
   on average (3 nights)

   •  Britons travelling overseas stayed the longest, on average, in
   Australia and New Zealand (40 days)

ENDS

http://www.statistics.gov.uk/pdfdir/ttds0709.pdf

Media Relations Office: 0845 604 1858

Lake Tahoe’s First Luxury Resort to Open in Time for Ski Season Later This Year

The Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe announced today that the Northern California mountain resort will open its doors to guests on December 9, 2009, in time for the upcoming ski season in Northstar-at-Tahoe.

“There is a lot of anticipation and excitement around this resort opening on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe,” said Allen Highfield, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton. “As we approach the three year anniversary of the ground-breaking, we are pleased to announce that guests may begin arriving on December 9.” The $300 million resort development broke ground nearly three years ago, on July 19, 2006 and has been on schedule to open in late 2009.

The Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe is the first new-build resort development in the Lake Tahoe area in decades and will introduce its legendary service to Lake Tahoe later this year. It is anticipated to become Northern California’s premier mountain retreat and is situated mid-mountain in the Northstar-at-Tahoe ski area. Guest services will feature a mountain concierge with ski-in, ski-out access in winter, as well as easy access to mountain biking and hiking in the spring, summer and fall. An inter-mountain gondola will connect guests between the nearby Village-at-Northstar and the The Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe resort. Perched slope-side within a 15 minute drive of both Lake Tahoe and the historic town of Truckee, the year-round destination resort includes 170 guest rooms, 23 private Ritz-Carlton Residences and 25 Ritz-Carlton Destination Club fractional ownership residences.

In addition to the announcement of the hotel’s opening date, Manzanita, the resort’s signature restaurant created by renowned San Francisco chef Traci Des Jardins will also open inside the hotel on December 9, 2009. The menu at Manzanita will be a combination of Des Jardins’ signature French inspired California cuisine, with a regional mountain resort influence, sourcing organic, sustainable and locally grown meat and produce when possible. The 94-seat restaurant along with 71-seat bar and lounge is all about the kitchen and its acclaimed chef. From the moment you enter the restaurant, the design radiates warmth, texture and natural materials. The open kitchen is visible from all vantage points in the restaurant, showcasing the chef’s organic cuisine. For more information about Manzanita, please visit www.manzanitalaketahoe.com.

The Ritz-Carlton Highlands Spa, Lake Tahoe is a 17,000 square foot spa and fitness center and will also open on December 9. The Highlands Spa will feature treatments and therapies themed around water and the woods. Separate relaxation areas for men and women feature the signature rain experience, steam, sauna and Jacuzzis. Both yoga and spin studios have floor-to-ceiling windows maximizing the views of the nearby Northstar-at-Tahoe resort.

In addition to the hotel opening, The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club, Lake Tahoe will open its doors to Members on December 18. Located directly adjacent to The Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe, the 25 two-, three- and four-bedroom fractional residences ranging from approximately 1,423 to 2,434 square feet will boast mountain and valley views of the Sierra Nevada. Currently, fractional prices range from the low $200,000s to more than $700,000 per interest. Deeded, fractional ownership at The Ritz-Carlton Club, Lake Tahoe provides Members and their guests with a minimum of twenty-one days of use each year. For more information visit www.ritzcarltondestinationclub.com.

To confirm hotel reservations at The Ritz-Carlton Highlands, Lake Tahoe please visit www.ritzcarlton.com, contact your travel professional or call toll-free reservations at 800-241-3333.

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

Boca Raton-based Company will manage resort, sales and marketing activities for properties in New Hampshire, Virginia, Massachusetts and the Bahamas

Bluegreen Corporation (NYSE: BXG), a leading provider of Colorful Places to Live and Play®, recently announced new agreements with Parkside Williamsburg Resort in Williamsburg, VA; The Soundings Seaside Resort in Dennis Port, Mass. (Cape Cod); Blue Water Resort in Nassau, Bahamas; and South Mountain Resort in Lincoln, NH.

Under the agreements, Bluegreen will provide a customized suite of timeshare services and product offerings. Bluegreen will manage operations at each resort, as well as provide specialized, fee-based services in the areas of sales and marketing, title and escrow, property management, and risk management. In certain of these agreements, Bluegreen will also provide design and development planning and mortgage servicing and collections, also on a fee basis. All four properties will become part of the Bluegreen Vacation Club® portfolio.

“With their considerable track record in all facets of the vacation ownership industry, we believe Bluegreen is the ideal partner to help independent developers succeed,” said Andy Anderson, President of the Parkside Williamsburg Resort. “Bluegreen’s emphasis on the customer coupled with a history of solid performance, geographic diversity and scale of operations, allows my team to focus on project development and financing at a local level. We think this is a wonderful marriage of talents.”

For Bluegreen, these agreements will add approximately 180 units of resort inventory that will be sold through the Bluegreen Vacation Club. In addition, each property brings with it the opportunity for additional phased development, including the construction and end-loan financing.

“We think our size provides significant efficiencies at each property while allowing us to do what we do best—managing the overall vacation experience for Bluegreen Vacation Club members, ” said Bluegreen Management Services President Dave Pontius.

“We announced in January that we would actively pursue growth through fee-based services, which require minimal capital, if any. We couldn’t be happier with the interest shown in our services and the quality of properties we now have under contract,” said President and CEO John M. Maloney, Jr. He added, “This benefits both independent developers and their lenders. And for Bluegreen, it represents an opportunity to further evolve our business model and strengthen our financial profile while generating cash revenues and earnings.”

ABOUT BLUEGREEN CORPORATION
Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Boca Raton, FL, Bluegreen Corporation (NYSE:BXG) is the leader in providing Colorful Places to Live and Play® through its vacation ownership resort and residential real estate business segments. Our more than 3,100 employees are passionate about delivering extraordinary experiences for our owners, travelers and business partners. Since 1996, Bluegreen has managed, marketed and sold a flexible, real estate-based vacation ownership plan with more than 208,000 owners, over 45 owned or managed resorts, and access to more than 3,700 resorts worldwide. Since 1985, Bluegreen Communities has developed master-planned residential and golf communities primarily in the southern and southeastern U.S., and has sold over 55,000 homesites. We also offer a portfolio of comprehensive, turnkey, fee-for-service resort management, financial services, customer generation and sales solutions to third-party developers and lenders. For more information, visit www.bluegreencorp.com.

Ka’Ingo private reserve is part of the Zorgvliet Portfolio of luxury experience driven destinations. The Zorgvliet Group has entered into a global affiliation agreement with Interval International; a NASDAQ listed Vacation Company, which opened the door to a range of new offerings benefitting consumers.

Research indicates that consumers want more experiences and outstanding value propositions as well as total flexibility of choice, choices that are creating lasting memories.

In order to accommodate market demands Ka’Ingo is offering a novel pricing model where the consumer can create their own unique game reserve holiday. Renting a room only and decide on experiences and consumables and pay accordingly, luxury accommodation in a five star big five game reserve from R1 400 per room per day.

The Zorgvliet Group also recently announced the formation of the Zorgvliet Private Residence Club, memberships are available from R72 000 at Ka’Ingo for a week per year for a 12 year concessionary period. Flexibility is extended through the affiliation with Interval International to include global vacation exchange on a week for week basis at very attractive international resorts. Ka’Ingo offers an authentic Bush restaurant, Spa, a range of game experiences, cultural experiences and river safaris.

The luxurious big five Ka’Ingo private game reserve is located just three hours north of Johannesburg, or 35 minutes by light aircraft landing at the 1.2 kilometre landing strip on the property. Ka’Ingo is a founder member of the Greater Mokolo Nature Reserve in the Malaria free Waterberg, taking down fences and opening a 16 000 hectare conservation sanctuary became a reality on the 11th July 2009. This is arguably the most secluded privately owned nature reserve accessible to the public in South Africa. Exclusive game viewing is an outstanding attribute with a ratio of 3 000 hectare pristine Bushveld per game viewer and some 42 game species including; lion, elephant, white rhino, a buffalo breeding program, leopard, cheetah conservation project, giraffe, ‘majestic’ kudu, impala, waterbuck, gemsbuck, zebra and many more. The ‘majestic’ kudus seen on the reserve is evidence of the positive impact of the no hunting policy which has been introduced more than 7 years ago.

Conservation is a lifestyle and ethos at Ka’Ingo on which this special sanctuary is based. Guests are often part of conservation projects; releasing rehabilitated leopard or conducting field work can be in a day’s experience. The professional Game Rangers share information on conservation and field management in a way that is understandable and interesting. Back to nature is a philosophy and a driving force behind the conservation efforts at Ka’Ingo, being in the Waterberg Biosphere alludes to serious commitment to these efforts.

The mystery that surrounds age old rock art can be witnessed at one of the many sites set in a scenic vantage point overlooking an awesome gorge and ravine. Experience the unexplained intricacies at this unique site with three types of overlapping historic paintings from the Koi, the San and more recent the Phedi. Clive Walker, renowned artist and conservationist, said this is to his mind a most special and unique example of rock art in the Limpopo Province.

Experiencing conservation, African game, rock art or the fauna and flora of the Waterberg can be tiring for a city dweller. A late afternoon sundowner or just a moment to contemplate on life usually set the scene for leisure time at the communal gathering area and dinner at the Ka’Ingo restaurant or boma. The main lodge at Ka’Ingo consists of 12 luxurious rooms with modern amenities such as flatscreen TV and DVD players, air conditioning and spacious bathrooms. The rooms are set in a scenic indigenous garden with 23 species of age old cycad plants. The dam attracts fast numbers of birds, all joining the chorus welcoming visitors to Ka’Ingo.

More than anything Ka’Ingo is known for its friendly and caring personnel delivering their special brand of service to their patrons. www.kaingo.co.za

W South Beach and The Residences at W South Beach Set a New Standard for a Contemporary Lifestyle Experience as W Hotels Continues to Expand Globally, More Than Doubling Its Portfolio by 2011

W Hotels Worldwide, the hotel category buster and industry innovator, today unveils its latest insider escape with the grand opening of W South Beach and The Residences at W South Beach, the W brand’s 31st hotel property.

Owned and developed by Tristar Capital and RFR Realty and executed on behalf of ownership by Related of New York, W South Beach is located beachside in the burgeoning arts and entertainment district of Miami Beach. This oceanfront landmark is set to inspire jet set guests and locals alike with spectacular design that sets the stage for W’s fully integrated contemporary lifestyle experience: 408 W-branded residences, including Ocean Suites, Beach Bungalows, and the signature Extreme WOW suite (W’s reinterpretation of the Presidential suite); Wall, an exclusive bar and ultra-lounge operated in partnership with world-renowned Miami nightlife impresarios and restaurateurs; celebrity dining hotspot Mr. Chow; Soleà, the signature restaurant serving contemporary Mediterranean cuisine; Grove, a whimsical outdoor garden; Bliss®, New York’s hottest spa, arriving in Miami for the first time; WET, with two alluring pools and stylish cabanas; more than 10,000 square feet of ultra-modern meeting and event space; SWEAT® state-of-the-art fitness center; basketball court; tennis court, and W Hotels The Store, the W brand’s twist on the traditional hotel gift shop.

“W South Beach will serve as a flagship hotel for the W brand globally,” said Eva Ziegler, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide and Le Méridien. “The hotel will provide guests and locals alike with W’s outstanding signature programming set in a stunning, cutting-edge design environment on the shores of one of the world’s most glamorous and fashionable beaches.”

“The launch of W South Beach marks a new era in Miami’s glamorous history,” said David Edelstein, principal of Tristar Capital, which owns the hotel along with RFR Realty. “Our vision was to develop a world-class hotel with a new standard of design and style that embraces the vibrant spirit of South Beach.”

A Landmark on the Shores of Florida’s Most Fashionable Beach
W South Beach is the product of renowned designers and artists, including architect Costas Kondylis in collaboration with NBWW & Associates, Anna Busta of Studio B Design, landscape designer Paula Hayes and twice Grammy-nominated photographer Danny Clinch. Together they have combined organic architectural elements with a contemporary design to create an iconic and high-end urban design ambiance that pays homage to the area’s art deco heritage and offers guests an insider escape in the center of all the action.

Architect Costas Kondylis created a new landmark that recalls Miami’s modern architectural legacy with its dynamic and whimsical façade. The unique design of the building positions rooms on a 25-degree angle, providing guests with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The stunning W Living Room (W’s take on the traditional hotel lobby), has been designed by Anna Busta and features dramatic artwork from noted collector Aby Rosen’s private collection. Strongly influenced by art deco elements, the Living Room features sleek floors inlaid with bronze and wood with a terrazzo border and a row of white quartzite columns set against a soaring 120-foot-long marble wall. An eclectic yet sophisticated mix of furnishings create intimate conversation areas throughout the space, including tufted leather ottomans, sofas imported from Italy, velvet curtains in eggplant purple, modern white and gray sofas complemented by oversized, inlaid horn tables, armchairs covered in white pony or slate velvet and white pony rugs splashed with gold paint. A shimmering, 20-foot-high beaded curtain set off by glass walls ushers guests into the W Living Room Bar, offering views of WET pool deck and the hotel’s lush garden known as the Grove.

Escape into the Grove by Celebrated Landscape Artist Paula Hayes
Developed by conceptual landscape artist Paula Hayes in collaboration with Anna Busta, the Grove was inspired by the many beautiful gardens found in the Provence region of France. Designed to transport guests into another world, this serene garden is an escape from the hustle and bustle of South Beach, featuring winding paths amongst the swamp lily and flowering grasses, lanterns from the late 19th Century, sheets of poetry suspended from sea grape trees and 1920s-era objects discovered in French flea markets.

Flirt, Sip and Mix from Dusk to Dawn at The Wall
Guests of The Wall ultra-lounge will experience the first partnership of Miami nightlife giants Nicola Siervo and Karim Masri, co-owners of celebrity-hangout Mokai and hotspot Quattro restaurant, and brothers Francis and Eric Milon, nightlife pioneers behind The Opium Group, which owns iconic South Beach venues Mansion, SET, Louis Bar-Lounge, Opium at The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Privé Las Vegas at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Miami’s newest nightlife destination has been designed to entertain celebrities and jet setters alike from dusk to dawn, seducing and captivating guests throughout several spaces. Designed by Anna Busta, the ultra-lounge captivates guests with its seductive gold-and-black motif, including dark walls, a lacquered bar, Cappellini stools and a ceiling of fine copper mesh. The focal point of the space is a vintage gold sofa inspired by Le Corbusier, created exclusively for W South Beach.

Savor Legendary Chinese Cuisine at Mr. Chow Miami
Famed celebrity eatery Mr. Chow debuts in Miami on the ground floor of W South Beach. Mr. Chow Miami offers iconic dishes along with new and creative recipes prepared by Executive Chef Nick Du, a specialist in regional Chinese cuisines who is known as one of the best chefs in Beijing and throughout China. Designed by Michael Chow, the beautiful space includes his signature elements such as the stepped entrance that puts guests into the spotlight, modern screens and black lacquer furniture as well as unique elements including the 125-foot gold-leaf and Swarovski crystal chandelier designed by Chow himself. The expansive space, with seating for approximately 300 guests, includes outdoor seating that overlooks fashionable Collins Avenue. As part of Michael Chow’s dedication to art, a known artist has been commissioned to develop an exclusive video animation that will be projected on the walls of the outside dining area.

Munch and Mingle at Soleá
Soleá, the second restaurant at W South Beach, offers contemporary Mediterranean cuisine in a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere. Chef Michael Gilligan has created a globally inspired menu that incorporates a Latin flare such as foie gras and goat cheese empanadas, sea scallop tiradito and sautéed langoustines with sherry, tomatoes and tarragon. Designed by Anna Busta, the 234-seat restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining overlooking the hotel’s whimsical Grove garden.

Soleá features walnut floors throughout, two stunning wine walls, a VIP dining area, communal tables made from single slabs of fallen maple wood, oversized banquettes in rich chocolate brown leather, and glowing glass lanterns hanging on the walls and from the ceilings, creating intimate dining spaces throughout. Soleá is operated by nightlife and restaurant industry impresarios Nicola Siervo and Karim Masri of KNR Food Concepts (Sosta, Quattro).

Indulge at Miami’s First Bliss® Spa
Bliss Spa boasts more than 7,000-square-feet of tension-fighting facilities at W South Beach. With a focus on waxing, skincare services, and manicures and pedicures, bliss south beach also provides massage and body treatments. Seven treatment rooms and bliss trademark touches such as rhythm & blues tunes, a retail beauty boutique, and the legendary brownie buffet, make bliss south beach the ultimate destination for stylish jet setters and spa and beauty-loving locals. W South Beach guests and residents also receive “BIP” (Bliss Important Person) status for priority reservations and exclusive in-room sampling. Additionally, all guests can enjoy sought after sink side bliss amenities in all guestrooms and suites.

Relax and Escape into a Stylish Personal Oasis
Residences and guestrooms at W South Beach range in size from 574 square-feet to more than 3,000 square-feet with nine-foot ceilings and expansive glass balconies that allow for unparalleled views of South Beach and the glistening Atlantic Ocean. As W’s first all condo hotel, guestrooms offer contemporary, stylish living with soft shades of teal and white, a sleek floor made of white ceramic tiles with a wood grain finish, and floor-to-ceiling screens that delineate the living and sleeping areas. Modern Italian steel grey sofas are positioned strategically in front of the flat screen plasma televisions inviting guests to chill out before going out, while the photographs of legendary rock photographer Danny Clinch – works of artists ranging from Missy Elliot to Elvis Costello – adorn the walls in guestrooms as well as elevator landings throughout the property.

Oversized bathrooms feature Cippolino marble vanity countertops with black and gray veining, high-end chrome fixtures and spacious showers. For a true escape, select suites feature Japanese soaking tubs. Many of W South Beach’s guestrooms feature an Asco stacked washer and dryer and a state-of-the-art kitchenette with a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf range, stainless steel microwave, custom lacquered Italian cabinets with either granite or synthetic quartzite countertops, a deep sink basin and chrome fixtures. All guestrooms and suites feature the signature Munchie Box (W Hotels’ re-interpretation of the traditional hotel Mini Bar) and state-of-the-art entertainment system which includes two plasma televisions, CD and DVD player and docking station for MP3 players, setting the stage for a night on the town or for winding down after a day at the beach.

The Residences at W South Beach offer owners a combination of stylish one, two, and three bedroom condominiums with all the signature W comforts, services and amenities available to hotel guests. Residences are still available and can be purchased by contacting the Welcome Center at 305-531-4449. In addition to W Hotels’ signature services, W South Beach offers the W brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever® service promise, providing both hotel guests and residents with whatever they want – from a personal shopping consultation at South Beach’s most exclusive boutiques to private jet service from MIA – whenever they want it, as long as it’s legal!

More than a hotel brand, W Hotels has established itself as an iconic contemporary lifestyle brand, offering guests unprecedented insider access to a world of “Wow” through leading-edge design, fashion, nightlife, celebrities, entertainment and other trendsetting activities. W Hotels has changed the hospitality landscape with a series of industry firsts in the past 10 years, including: the transformation of the hotel lobby into the W Living Room experience; the introduction of the W brand’s signature Whatever/Whenever service promise as a vehicle to fulfill every guest’s dreams, as long as its legal; extension of the lifestyle experience into retail through W Hotels the Store; the reinterpretation of the hotel mini-bar into the Munchie Box; and the reinvention of the presidential suite into W’s “Extreme Wow” and “Wow” suites.

About W Hotels Worldwide®
W Hotels is an innovative contemporary lifestyle brand and the hotel category buster with 31 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 more than double its footprint by 2011. In North America and Latin America, W Hotels have been announced in Austin, Boston, Hollywood, Huntington Beach, Downtown New York, Santiago, 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.

About Nicola Siervo and Karim Masri
Nightlife and restaurant industry impresarios Nicola Siervo and Karim Masri have successfully revolutionized the Miami scene with stylish, conceptualized venues including Mokai and Quattro Celebrated by The New York Times, Elle and People magazines, Siervo and Masri are known for creating intimate hotspots featuring impeccable quality that combine innovation with luxury. Owen Wilson, John Mayer, Lindsay Lohan, Diddy, Kevin Spacey, Molly Simms, Justin Timberlake and Scarlett Johansson are only a handful of celebrities that consider Mokai and Quattro must stop destinations while visiting Miami. Siervo and Masri are credited with creating intimate hotspots designed to forever raise the bar of style and design.

Siervo and Masri are expanding their holdings in Miami by teaming up with The Opium Group to launch Wall at W South Beach. They are also managing partners of KNR Food Conepts, which will open both Sosta Pizzeria in Miami and Quattro Gastronomia Italiana at Trump SoHo in New York in 2009.

About The Opium Group
The Opium Group is Miami Beach’s most successful nightlife operator, internationally recognized for pioneering the South Beach nightlife renaissance with high-end VIP venues Mansion, SET, Louis Bar-Lounge, Opium at The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, and Privé Las Vegas at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Heralded in the pages of Time, People Magazine, Harpers Bazaar, USA Today and The New York Times for the chicest hotspots in Miami, guests ranging from Pamela Anderson and Justin Timberlake to Lindsay Lohan and Jay Z to Prince and Beyonce have visited The Opium Group’s glamorous venues. With more than 500 employees, The Opium Group’s plans for expansion include this partnership with W Hotels, as well as new venues debuting in Las Vegas and the Miami market.

About Bliss Spas
Founded in 1996, bliss was spotted by beauty-obsessed buzz-makers and quickly massaged its way to the top. There are currently 16 bliss spas worldwide: bliss soho, bliss57 and bliss49 (at W New York) in Manhattan, bliss san francisco (at W San Francisco), bliss chicago (at W Chicago-Lakeshore), bliss los angeles (at W Los Angeles – Westwood), bliss dallas (at W Dallas – Victory), bliss atlanta (at W Atlanta – Midtown and at W Atlanta – Downtown), bliss scottsdale (at W Scottsdale), bliss hoboken (at W Hoboken), bliss fort lauderdale (at W Fort Lauderdale), bliss washington dc (at W Washington DC), bliss london in the UK, bliss hong kong (at W Hong Kong), and bliss doha (at W Doha). Bliss bath, body and skincare amenities can be found in room at W Hotels nationwide. Bliss retails its bath, body and skincare lines through its bliss catalog, blissworld.com web site and at international retailers including Bloomingdale’s, Bluemercury, Harrod’s, Harvey Nichols, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sephora, and Ulta.

Nearly 2,000 golfers and hundreds of volunteers gathered for the seventh annual Group RCI Christel House Open international charity golf tournament the week of June 8. The Open is actually a series of individual tournaments spanning the world. This year, golfers at 19 individual tournament sites on five continents
participated in the event. The majority of tournaments take place in June with a few events taking place later in the year due to weather and other considerations.

World-wide proceeds are expected to be announced by year-end, once all tournaments have taken place. One hundred percent of cash proceeds will be utilized for programs and services benefiting more than 3,000 children who attend Christel House learning centres.

The tournament is largely supported by developers, resorts and vendors in the timeshare industry because of strong ties to Christel House founder Christel DeHaan, a recognized pioneer in the industry and co-founder of Group RCI, the worldwide leader in vacation exchange. Timeshare industry companies sponsor and
host individual tournament sites on behalf of the charity.

“We are deeply grateful to our sponsors, including our Title Sponsor Group RCI, for their generous support of this year’s tournament. Likewise, our tournament site hosts are the event’s heart and soul. Their collective efforts have built the tournament into an annual tradition that spans the globe,” said DeHaan.

“We are absolutely thrilled to once again have the opportunity to sponsor the Group RCI Christel House Open and are humbled to help this world class organization’s efforts to break the cycle of poverty around the world,” said Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO, Group RCI.

“Our associates’ and affiliates’ passionate support of Christel House from Bundall, Australia, to Bangalore, India, improves the lives of countless children, families and communities that make up the Christel House community, and we are very proud of that.”

The UK tournament of the Group RCI Christel House Open charity golf day was held at Ealing Golf Club, Perivale, Middlesex on Monday 15th June 2009.

Ealing Golf Course was originally laid out by James Braid and later re-designed by Harryding. Colt, one of the greatest of all golf course architects who would go on to design Sunningdale, the East and West courses at Wentworth and Stoke Park.

The course is renowned for the condition of our course and the greens are some of the best in England. Golfing legends such as Peter Allis, Greg Norman, Bernhard Langer and Paul McGinley have played the course as well as celebrities like Sir Henry Cooper, football legends Ruud Gullit and Denis Wise and entertainer Matt Monro.

It is a challenging Par 70, 6,191 yards course that, over the years has produced players of the highest calibre in amateur golf. It is not a physically demanding course though so players of all levels and ages can enjoy a relaxing but challenging round.

The weather held out right to the end of play allowing all players to enjoy a dry round as teams of four battled it out for first place and a number of individual prizes.

The evening started with a drinks reception sponsored by Perspective International Ltd and followed with a
beautiful dinner, speeches from key sponsors and Christel House supporters, a charity auction and awards ceremony.

First Prize Winners were Team Vision, comprising of Stephen Price, Tony Dangerfield, Bertie Edwards and
Jimmy Kane.

The UK event raised over £20,000 for the children of Christel House.