It’s A Whole New Game – Changes In Shared Ownership Marketing Continue

By Georgi Bohrod

Change. It’s the buzz. Whether it is political, financial or lifestyle trends, the 21st Century is alive with fresh ideas. For years, debates about timeshare marketing have juggled originality and practicality. Test-driving products with mini-vacations, strong brand identification, internet marketing and product diversity are part of the “new” focus in timeshare marketing.

According to ARDA (American Resort Development Association) only 6% of U.S. households with an annual income of $45,000 or above own a timeshare. The question remains:How do we penetrate this market?
How do we engage that other 94% of the population who would benefit from owning their vacation? How do we make new contacts that are open to recreation and a healthy lifestyle? How can we bring them new information?

ARDA research has confirmed that health and vacations go hand in hand. Recently, the organization launched a new web site (www.vacationbetter.org) offering practical advice to timeshare owners and prospective purchasers noting the health benefits of leisure, relaxation and stress-reducing activities. The campaign is primarily routed in the endeavor to reach out to newcomers to the industry and timeshare concept.

Another effort to pinpoint this open market is relationship building. Timeshare is still in a trust building mode. Through the name brands and trade association much has been done to further a positive view of the industry, there remains much to be accomplished in this arena. Statistics strongly support the advantages of long term relationships in reducing marketing costs and buffering sales. Whether it is affinity marketing through recognized partners such as Bluegreen Corporation and Bass Pro Shops, The Welk Group and San Diego Padres, brand name identification from Marriott to Starwood, or robust Owner Referral Programs, results are clearly stronger when good relationships are maintained.

Permission based marketing is at the core of the new wave. Do not call lists in the US and Canada have eliminated huge databases of likely prospects. Targeted lists are more and more difficult to access and maintain. To have permission you must have a relationship. Only then can you touch your prospects
and customers multiple times.

According to Chris Jones, formerly of Interval International and Resort Funding, and now President of See Your Game USA, relationships can be built in numerous ways. As an expert in business relationship building, and long time proponent of bringing fresh ideas to the shared ownership business, Chris maintains that people are inherently drawn to pictures and videos of themselves. See Your Game uses this personality trait
to attract individual customers and build long term rapport. The system is readily scalable to establish direct connections with hundreds of thousands of potential owners of timeshare, fractional and private residence club products.

The way it works is intriguing. Based on the same methodology that brought video demonstrations of golfers’ swings, the consumer-centered technology begins with personal contact at some type of event.

See Your Game involves customers in an activity and invites them to have their image captured. The Calgary Flames take photos of fans with their team mascot and even the Stanley Cup; Callaway takes videos of
participants at golf tournaments and their Callaway Performance Centers; and companies such as Wells Fargo and Scotiabank have used See Your Game’s videos to make the most of their marketing dollars at golf events, trade shows, charity functions and grand openings.

The most compelling events usually involve participants captured on video while swinging a club or bat, skiing, kicking a ball, shooting a basketball, bowling, dancing or countless other recreational activities.

As Chris explains, “the venues for attracting traffic are endless: local and regional events, stadiums, charity events, trade shows, theme parks, OPC locations and even on-site at resorts.”

Not only does the participant receive an immediate personalized souvenir of the event, but the relationship between the sponsoring company and the individual customer continues via a strategically timed follow-up email campaign drawing the customer to an individualized URL with his most favorite subject: him/herself. They experience their own image and a custom message or special offer.

See Your Game reports an amazing 80- 90% of the participants from an event visit the sponsor’s website multiple times. Some return as many as 30-40 times to check out their pictures and video. See Your Games’ in-depth records report that 30% of those who go to the site forward their images to non-event attendees. To put this into perspective, direct mail specialists are pleased with a two percent response rate.

The company prides itself by proving these numbers with detailed reporting capabilities including segmenting leads, identifying frequent visitors and building campaigns based on visitor’s interests.

Started by Wes Pajunen, a technology wizard and proven company builder, and Blair Hooper, a sales and marketing expert with record breaking results in the transportation industry, See Your Game is structured to sell licenses throughout Canada and the US. With licensees currently operating out of Portland, Phoenix, Tampa, Houston, British Columbia and Alberta, Chris Jones is focused on expanding operations in the US with a series of Regional Offices to support licensees as well conduct event services themselves.

For an industry constantly looking out for ways to reach potential customers, See Your Game provides a fresh look to invigorate lead generation, plan owner’s events and keep ahead of the curve in the continuing effort to keep marketing innovative and cost effective.

For more information call Chris Jones, RRP at (702)-341-6437, chris@seeyourgame.com, or visit www.seeyourgame.com

Georgi Bohrod, RRP is the principal of GBG & Associates, a marketing and public relations firm in San Diego, CA.

Financing For Fractionals: It Exists;How To Access It

By David Disick

Introduction
In the September “Perspective Magazine”, I summarized the fractional industry segment, its growth, the reasons for growth, and its sound performance in the current market climate. I noted the Basic Fractional Value Proposition (“BFVP”):

“You can have the same realistic use you would make of a comparable quality whole ownership at a fraction of the price and enjoy club level services and amenities.”

The thrust of this Paper is:

- Fractional financing is available notwithstanding the current market.

- Why fractionals can be attractive to capital sources.

- How to access financing.

Implications of the BFVP
Industry experience is that fractional revenues attributable to one luxury residence are generally 1.5 to 2+ times the whole ownership cost of the residence (“Fractional Multiplier”). This results from the BFVP.

The following example illustrates the compelling effect of the BFVP.

- Whole ownership price $5,000,000

- Average fractional revenues @ a 1.75 Fractional Multiplier $8,750,000

- Average fractional price assuming a 1/10 fractional $875,000 or 17.5% of the whole ownership cost

- Down payment on whole ownership @ 80% loan to value financing (LTV) $1,000,000

- Fractional interest down payment @ 80% LTV $175,000 – 17.5% of whole ownership down payment – and I would note that we can access that financing.

At 80% LTV, whole ownership down payment is $125,000 more than the entire cost of the fractional

The BFVP and Raising Money
The BFVP creates a compellingly attractive proposition to capital sources for two basic reasons:

Profitability. The example above is self explanatory

Security. Let’s take the above example. It reflects a several million dollar cushion between the cash needed and the likely projected results. This creates a security blanket for the capital.

I would also point out that the capital markets and the sales markets recognize the increased revenues from the fractional multiplier as a real asset. Fractional purchaser financing is based upon the actual fractional price as opposed to the lower pro rata portion of the whole ownership price. Moreover, resale data in projects where resales are properly handled by the developer show appreciation based on the fractional price.

Experiential Nature of Fractionals
The salability of upscale fractionals is enhanced by the superior amenities and services offered by these projects. This is especially resonant in the current market climate. Today’s consumer seeks the experience of luxury.

The “Tipping Point”
Many readers may be familiar with the recent incisive book by Malcolm Gladwell entitled, “The Tipping Point.” Gladwell’s basic thesis is that a confluence of circumstances build up to the point where a
particular product, idea or concept “tips” and becomes resonant in the body politic. That has happened with fractionals.

See, for example, CNNMoney.com, the Internet Home of FORTUNE, February 16, 2007, article entitled, “The Fractional Life”.

“With jewelry, yachts and vineyards available by the slice, even the super rich are learning to share.”

How to Access Financing
In addition to the obvious elements of presenting a sound project, with sound planning and a sound management team – including state of the art marketing and sales techniques, I would like to make the following points.

Choose your prospective financing sources carefully. Notwithstanding the logic of my discussion above, there are financing sources which in the current climate will not be available. My company has spent several years in identifying the financing sources who realistically will be available and those are the sources to whom you should present.

How to present is all important. We receive many proposed business plans every week. A great majority of them set forth generalizations about the project and the industry, and projections without assumptions. Those plans are immediately relegated to the circular file.

It is essential to present an operational analysis of your project – not just how wonderful it is but how you will operate to make it happen. Fractionals are a complicated operating business.

Set forth the assumptions for your projections. Numbers on a piece of paper without assumptions are like a
telephone book. They do not resonant with the money.

It is well to anticipate the questions that are likely and respond in advance to them. This reflects your careful analysis. In the next section, I will describe several “hardball questions” and responses that have
resonated.

Hardball Questions

Q. Can investors realistically be attracted to the fractional market in light of competition from distressed properties for investment money?

A. We acknowledge this competition. However, the profit potential in fractionals is competitive because of:

The profit potential by reason of the Fractional Multiplier

The ability to buy whole ownership inventory at favorable prices and terms by reason of the current market climate.

Moreover, we focus on upscale fractional properties in areas that tend to be less affected by downturns and which bounce back quicker. Accordingly, such properties may have greater inherent value than distressed properties.

Q. Realistically, can fractional PRCs be sold in the current real estate market climate?

A. Yes – because of the Basic Fractional Value Proposition.

The affluent still vacation in difficult times and in such times, the ability to have the same realistic use as one would make of comparable whole ownership for a fraction of the price especially resonates.

Q. The result of the fractional multiplier is that significantly greater revenues are generated from fractional sales than would be generated by the whole ownership sale. As a practical matter, isn’t this an impediment in the sales process?

A. No.

To be sure, some sales prospects may raise it as a potential objection. However, the valid response, which I have seen proven effective in the sales room, is to take the prospect through the following Socratic exercise: “Do I correctly understand that you would like to vacation at XYZ Resort?” Answer: Yes. “Do I correctly understand that you are a busy person who would likely vacation only several weeks a year?”
Answer: Yes. “Given those facts, would you prefer to spend $X million for a residence that you will only use several weeks a year, or spend a fraction of X?”

From experience, this exercise resonates with sales prospects.

Q. Realistically, will the affluent prospect purchase a fractional rather than a whole ownership that guarantees the prospect use whenever he or she wants?

A. Yes, as demonstrated by the volume of fractional sales. Moreover, we have developed a simple reservation system which maximizes the ability of Owner Members to vacation when they wish.

The Bottom Line
The bottom line is: despite the current general market climate, there is financing available for fractional development and fractional purchasers. One simply needs to know where to look for it and how to attract it. This has been the focus of my company’s efforts for a number of years.

An Invitation
We are always looking for, and value, input from developers and marketers as to their actual experience. Moreover, I take the liberty of noting that my company is launching a multi site Private Residence Club and is seeking upscale inventory to acquire. We invite you to email us with your experiences and questions regarding capital raising and your input regarding upscale available inventory. We will respond promptly. Feel free to email me at ddisick@msn.com.

The Making Of Club Intrawest

The evolution of the Club’s boutique collection of special accommodations

ON A WARM DECEMBER DAY IN 2000,  Jim Gibbons stepped off a plane onto the tarmac at Zihuatanejo’s international airport. Surrounded by travelers eager to start their vacation in the Mexican resort, Gibbons was likely the only business traveler in the group.

Thirty minutes and a quick, air-conditioned cab ride later, Gibbons found himself standing on Playa La Ropa beach, admiring the sweeping ocean views before him. While small fishing boats gently bobbed in the quiet bay and a sprinkling of sun-drenched vacationers walked along the shore, Gibbons asked himself the seminal question he had deliberated countless times before: should this be the next Club location?

Fast forward nearly eight years as Club Intrawest’s first Mexican resort overlooks the same beach, and you can guess the answer. As President of Club Intrawest, Gibbons, along with a tight-knit management team, steers the course of the private resort club, carefully selecting resort locations which today totals eight.

“People often live their lives at a frantic pace and they don’t find the time to enjoy the things in life that really matter to them – family, travel, discovery. This is what Club Intrawest is all about – taking the time to live life the way you really want to live it,” according to Gibbons.

When Gibbons and his colleagues started thinking about Club Intrawest and the concept of a private resort club in the early 90s, they imagined a day when Members would enjoy access to a network of truly international Club locations. It’s this vision that Gibbons and his team have worked tirelessly to bring to fruition. The Resort Point system is key to this vision.

“Members needed to be able to stay for any length of time they wanted, be able to pick the size of Vacation Home they wanted, and travel to any destination they desired. Resort Points provided the flexibility that the other models we considered simply couldn’t provide,” Gibbons continued.

In 1994 the first Club Intrawest location opened in Whistler, British Columbia. Georgiana Mcleod and her husband were among the first Members of the Club. Frequent visitors to Whistler, the Mcleods would typically stay at a local hotel. On a cool winter night in 1993, they noticed an intriguing structure under construction. Inside the half-finished building, a single, bright light illuminated a small group of people working fervently into the night. The Mcleods were curious. The next day, they decided to investigate further.

“We found hanging wires, paint brushes, ladders – it was a full-on construction site,” recalls Georgiana over the phone from her home in California. “After a tour of the site and a presentation, I thought to myself, ‘We could be saving money and staying in an amazing place.’ We bought a Membership on the spot. We’ve been going annually since.” By the end of the year, more than 700 other families had joined the Mcleods as Members of Club Intrawest.

Following the success of the first Club opening, Gibbons turned his attention to expanding the network. The flexibility of the Resort Point system would have even greater value with more destinations – he needed to build another Club location. He looked to the East.

On a trip to Tremblant, Gibbons contemplated the idea of a Club location in Quebec’s Laurentian Mountains. “It is so charming. The area’s historical buildings, the arts and crafts stores – even the restaurants.”

In 1995 the second Club location opened in Tremblant, Quebec. The foundation was set for a multi-location Club that would soon expand to the United States.

Soon after Tremblant, the Club opened its first warm-weather location in Palm Desert. With over 110 courses in the area, Palm Desert is a golfing mecca. Noticing significant interest in golf and warm-weather destinations, the management team began to explore possible sites for Club locations. They could not have imagined the opportunity that would soon present itself at Desert Willow Golf Resort. Sharing the commitment to respecting the natural environment, the vision was to create an indigenous desert ecosystem and Club Intrawest would be at the heart of it.

The late 90s were a period of rapid Club expansion. Club Intrawest — Panorama, nestled in the Purcell Mountains of British Columbia, was next to open, offering Members incredible powder skiing and back country trails. The area is also known for world-class golfing. Panorama’s Greywolf is the number one course in British Columbia, according to Golf Magazine.

And the chalky blue waters of Toby Creek make for spectacular fly-fishing, rounding out the varied experiences available to Members in the rustic mountain hideaway.

The year after Panorama opened, Club Intrawest — Vancouver became the first urban Club location. The future host city of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, Vancouver is consistently rated one of the best cities to live in, blending the natural beauty of the surrounding Pacific Ocean and Coast Mountains with a distinct cosmopolitan flare.

In early 2000 Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort caught the attention of Gibbons and his team. The 2,400-acre resort is a special place which blends Cajun influences with southeastern charm. Sandestin offers 72 holes of championship golf – bike paths connect the village to the marina, golf courses, beach club and tennis academy. Sandestin is known the world over for its sugar white sand. It has won countless awards and accolades over the years rendering the beaches a national treasure. It didn’t take long to decide this was the perfect spot for the next Club location. In 2002 the sixth Club location opened in Sandestin, a
casually elegant southern retreat on the Florida panhandle.

The Club continued to grow at a steady pace. In March of 2004 a Club location opened its doors to Members in Blue Mountain – Ontario’s new cottage country. For Members like Michael Heise, who lives near Toronto, this location is a convenient escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Speaking about why they became Members, Michael says, “The high standards of quality anchored our decision to buy – the quality of the Vacation Homes really blew us away. Our time in Blue Mountain has been a wonderfully relaxing experience.”

In December of 2004, Club Intrawest opened its doors in Mexico. Hand-crafted armoires were shipped from Guadalajara, and glass fixtures came from Mexico City, examples of the many authentic Mexican furnishings that decorate the Vacation Homes in Zihuatanejo. Gibbons proudly reflects on how far the Club has come over the years. “Our vision is now a reality. We’ve come a long way since those early days in Whistler.”

According to Gibbons, it takes great teams to build extraordinary resorts. “We’re always looking for new talent to join our Team. From Sales people to help share our story with potential Members to OPCs in the resorts to book a tour, we have a lot of openings to help fuel our growth.”

To learn more about Club Intrawest, including career opportunities, visit www.clubintrawest.com.

Your Customer Counts – How Well Do We Know Them?

No matter what the industry, from carpet cleaning to hospitality, conventional wisdom is clear: the customer experience is ultimate. In the world of hospitality, we cater to our guests with utmost care. From booking
to sales to the resort stay, we pay attention to their every whim.

In an article published in Hotel Executive Margit Whitlock, AIA (Principal of Architectural Concepts/Resort ProSource) purported her design philosophy: “We can start from a central goal—The Guest Experience—we can build a process for development that is structured concentrically. Thus, the
guest experience needs to be wrapped with all your company’s core principals and key departments.”

The phrase “The customer is always right” was originally associated with Chicago’s Marshall Fields Department store. We in the hospitality industry hold fast to this philosophy, particularly when dealing with guests and owners.
Saying yes first is a mantra to which the finest properties adhere. But, if a guest doesn’t tell us his wishes, how will we know?

Beyond the architecture, décor, amenities, or natural beauty that might contribute to guests visiting pleasure, nothing will ruin their experience faster than not meeting their expectations. The challenge remains in knowing our guests thoughts and needs. As much as we would like to think we recognize their desires, we are not mind readers.

Mobius Vendor Partners’ (MVP) Bill Morris (Managing Partner) and Robert Kobek RRP (President) created a solution to the ongoing dilemma with CustomerCount©, an On Line Feedback System which tracks the reservation experience, the sales experience and the vacation experience.

CustomerCount is rapidly becoming an important tool to help management teams make informed decisions to improve profitability. The program collects and measures customer feedback through branded, customized surveys formulated to measure the quality ofthe entire customer experience from reservations and sales through to the vacation stay itself. The gathering of information and analysis is secure and confidential. CustomerCount has already proved to be both flexible and dependable.

Jim Danz, Chief Marketing Officer of Diamond Resorts International® (DRI) has been utilizing Customer Count to measure and better target post tour follow-ups and obtain sales referrals. Says Danz, “It’s not hit and miss any more. At DRI we are able to take the pulse of our prospects, buyers and tour-no-buys and segment by site, salesperson and tour source in real time.”

Originally developed by MVP as proprietary software for its client RCI to measure satisfaction, amenities, planning, staffing and other vacation resort experiences, CustomerCount was perfected for use by other
clients over the past two years.

Transparent to members, owners and guests, the process begins with Email invitations and reminders and continues through to on-line reporting and analysis.

Morris emphasizes that “finding out what is right and what is wrong from check-in to check-out has serious and a long reaching impact on the bottom line. The best way to accumulating accurate and verifiable
information is by asking questions.”

With years developing this expertise, MVP works with clients in determining the length of the survey, the scale and type of questions to be included. Protected by advanced technology all the data is backed up,
updated dynamically and solely that of the clients.

Development of the technology in CustomerCount was part of a long history of survey based studies created by MVP Strategic Research Services, the research division of Mobius Vendor Partners. Related to the vacation ownership industry the company has completed extensive surveys for such clients as RCI, ARDA (American Resort Development Association), Royal Aloha Vacation Club and TeleDirect International. MVP provides a range of marketing studies capabilities ranging from extensive marketing studies to competitive assessments and market research without the in-depth analysis component some companies require.

Through its internal resources and access to outside expert resources via alliances, MVP is well known
for having the human and technical resources necessary to effectively meet business clients’ needs. The two senior level MVP personnel have combined over 60 years of practical business application experience. In addition to CustomerCount, MVP develops strategic business plans, designs and executes strategic business to business research services aimed to increase market awareness and enhanced strategic planning;
develops direct marketing processes, especially those involving inbound and outbound call center resources; designs and redesigns operational processes within service industries for greater efficiency and effectiveness and develops and implements quality control standards, measures and processes, as well as marketing, sales and service initiatives.

Whether a developer designing a resort, upgrading guest amenities or examining revenue opportunities from an existing owner base, Francis Bacon’s words ring clear: “Knowledge is power.” A few years later, Samuel Johnson proclaimed: “Knowledge is of two kinds: we know a subject ourselves, or we know where we can find information upon it.” We may think we know our customer; CustomerCount can find out for certain.
Mobius Vendor Partners is a ten year old business process design and management company specializing in servicing the needs of the timeshare industry.

Mobius principals are active in ARDA through sponsorships and committee memberships. Robert Kobek RRP is a member of the Board of Trustees of the ARDA International Foundation.
For more information visit www.mobiusvp.com or call 317-816-6000.

Introducing Nassima Tower

Located on Dubai’s prestigious Sheikh Zayed Road, Nassima Tower will be part of a luxurious twin tower development housing a five-star hotel, offices, serviced apartments and timeshare apartments.

Property ownership in Dubai is still a relatively new concept, with the first law actually allowing foreigners to buy only coming into force in 2006, although sales had been conducted as early as 2002 on the understanding that the developer would transfer the property to the buyer once the law came into effect.

Even today demand continues to outstrip supply, with many early buyers seeing the value of their property more than double.

If the freehold property market is new, the timeshare market is even newer, with relatively few projects so far released onto the market. Yet Nick Turner, Middle East Managing Director of RCI, the world’s largest timeshare network, estimates that timeshare could account for as much as 30 percent of Dubai’s property market within the next 18 months.

Michael J Tolan, CEO of timeshare consultancy Platinum Resorts International, agrees. “We… see an upsurge in timeshare and private residence clubs which will rival European sales levels and product quality,” he said.

“Dubai will become the number one destination resort in the region, and that includes rivalling many European timeshare projects.

“Clients Investing in Dubai timeshare will have the most sought after exchange value in this hemisphere, adding more value to their vacation savings investment.”

Nassima Tower offers a unique opportunity to become part of this exciting market. First there’s the location. Sheikh Zayed Road is Dubai’s main thoroughfare and home to some of its most prestigious buildings.

Nassima Tower is directly opposite the Dubai International Financial Centre and the iconic Emirates Towers. Look just one kilometre up the road and residents can take in the awesome sight of the Burj Dubai, already the tallest manmade structure on earth – and it’s not even finished yet.

On the inside, though, Nassima Tower offers an oasis of calm, with 44 one-bedroom, 25 two-bedroom, two four-bedroom duplexes, and a number of deluxe penthouses – all timeshare apartments.

These apartments occupy the top 12 floors of 49 storeys and are finished to a level that is high even by Dubai’s famously luxurious standards. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow for unobstructed views of the city’s skyline, while plush, modern furniture, marble bathrooms, high-tech appliances and luxurious dark wood finishings make for a luxurious retreat.

But it’s not just the interiors that make Nassima Tower special. The tower is connected to a five-star hotel, and the high level of service available there has been reflected in the welcome residents can expect. Owners will be collected from Dubai International Airport by limousine, while a dedicated concierge service can take
care of everything from making restaurant reservations to ensuring your refrigerator is freshly stocked with all your favourites upon your arrival.

Nassima Tower is a member of RCI, the world’s largest timeshare vacation exchange network, which opens up a whole new world of possibilities.

Owners can swap their week in Nassima Tower for RCI points, which can be exchanged for stays in thousands of resorts around the world. Owners can simply exchange their week in Dubai for a week somewhere else, split the week up into several mini breaks (at select locations), or save up the points for an extra special vacation.

As an added incentive, Nassima Tower has set up an Owner Referral Programme. Simply provide the details of three people you think might be interested in becoming part of this exciting development. They will then be invited to Dubai for a complimentary, no-obligation, three-day stay. For each person you refer who decides to buy a timeshare at Nassima Tower, you will have your maintenance fee waived for an entire
year. That means that if you recommend three people who decide to become owners, your maintenance fees will be absolutely free for three years.

There’s even more: Owning at Nassima Tower means belonging to an exclusive club. Each owner receives a complimentary membership card, opening up a host of benefits and rewards.

Card holders are entitled to exclusive discounts on dining, hotel rooms and spa treatments at the adjoining five-star JAL Hotel, complimentary access to the luxurious health club, as well as preferential rates on
serviced apartments and office space.

The serviced apartments at Nassima Tower combine the best of both worlds. Guests can enjoy the home comforts of their own living room and a fully-equipped kitchen, while enjoying the same service offered in the timeshare apartments, including limousine airport transfers, a dedicated concierge and regular maid service.

Nassima Tower also offers 24 floors of office space, providing a prestigious location to prestigious clients. With offices taking up entire floors, Nassima Tower is the ideal destination for large blue-chip corporations – and their visiting CEOs can simply take the elevator to their luxury apartment on the upper floors.

As well as space, offices at Nassima Tower also offer convenience. The building is located directly opposite the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, home to most of the region’s largest exhibitions. The financial district is just a few minutes away.

Like the timeshare and serviced apartments, the offices also provide access to the facilities at the adjoining JAL Hotel.

JAL Hotels is Japan’s premier hotel chain. With 59 properties around the world, the company has created an enviable reputation through a unique blend of renowned Japanese hospitality and local custom.

In fact, the company was last year named as the ‘Best Regional Hotel Chain in Asia’ at the 18th TTG Travel Awards. Organised by Travel Trade Gazette Asia, the winners were selected as a result of votes by travel agents, tour operators and destination management companies in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Dubai property will boast 478 rooms and a wide range of dining options to cater to all tastes. But this will not be the company’s first venture into the United Arab Emirates: JAL already operates a hotel in the nearby emirate of Fujairah, on the UAE’s east coast. That hotel, like the one in Dubai, comes as a result
of the company’s partnership with Aerated Concrete Industries Company (ACICO), the developer behind Nassima Tower.

For almost 20 years ACICO has been responsible for dozens of successful projects across the region, including a wide range of projects in Dubai and Fujairah, from villas and hotels to medical and sports facilities.

An interview with Nabil Al Khaled, Deputy General Manager for Business Development – ACICO; and Allan Hav Thomsen, Sales Director – Nassima Tower.

Q. The timeshare market is extremely new in Dubai, and this is your first-ever timeshare development. Why did you decide to do it, and why now?

A. Dubai is becoming unreachable for many; though people come here once and are amazed, but the ever-increasing hotel rates are proving to be a deterrent for return visits. The shared ownership model allows for flexibility in accommodation and for visitors to enjoy this world-class city from one of the best locations year after year.

Q. What makes Nassima Tower different from other timeshare properties in Dubai?

A. I think the most obvious thing is the location. We’ve got this excellent location that puts you right in the middle of everything. Whether you want to go shopping, relax on the beach, enjoy some sightseeing or even do some business while you’re over here, everything is right on your doorstep. I don’t think anyone else can really say that.

Q. For those who may not have heard of ACICO, tell us a little bit about your company’s credentials.

A. This is our first timeshare development, but ACICO has a proven track record stretching back for two decades across the region. As well as our own projects, like Nassima Tower and the Hotel JAL Fujairah Resort & Spa, we’ve also worked on dozens of developments across the region.

Dubai – The City of Gold

In just a few short years Dubai has undergone an astonishing transformation from a sleepy pearl fishing village to a world-famous tourist destination and business hub.

Every year millions of people flock to the emirate – the ruler, His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has set a target of 15 million visitors annually by 2015 – attracted by its golden beaches, year-round sunshine and world-class shops.

The city boasts some of the world’s finest hotels, including the sevenstar sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, and a huge array of dining options reflecting Dubai’s cosmopolitan inhabitants. Dubai’s social scene is a melting pot of cultures with east and west sitting happily side by side, and the city offers an enormous variety of things to do: in a single day a visitor can lounge on the beach in the morning, ski on real snow in the afternoon before watching the sun go down over the dunes on an evening desert safari.

The UAE’s strategic location at the crossroads between East and West makes it an ideal business destination, and Dubai is fast emerging as the region’s financial centre. Many multinationals make Dubai their regional hub: some even relocate there altogether, drawn by the tax-free environment, excellent infrastructure and business-friendly regulations.

Dubai is truly the city of the future.

World’s Best Fly In For ATHOC Annual Conference

Timeshare Tourism heavy weights from around the globe descended on Denarau Island in Fiji for the Australian Timeshare Industry’s Annual Conference and Awards.

The Progressing Together in the Pacific conference brought together more than 130 from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, China, Singapore, the United States and Canada to discuss current issues being faced in the Timeshare industry.

“The speakers chosen were industry and opinion leaders from across the globe so that the delegates were entertained, informed and able to take plenty back to their business and organisations,” said ATHOC General Manager, Laura Younger.

The conference was very inclusive with a majority of speakers from within the industry who were prepared to share their story. This gave an opportunity to the individual operators to interact with the larger  organizations that are driving the movement in the market. It was agreed that a sharing of ideas and opportunities to learn from one another would have massive benefits that would flow on throughout this booming industry.

A standout of the many keynote speakers at the conference was Mr Graeme Bowman. Graeme spoke under the guise of an industry expert and took the audience with him on a hilarious journey that showed on the faces of the audience the ‘expert’s’ credibility gets stretched to breaking point. Graeme Bowman is also a certified Lateral Thinking Trainer, accredited by the De Bono Institute, and was highly entertaining with his keynote address, ‘How to Suck Great Ideas out of Your Head’, which hones in on the attitudes and skills
needed to create innovative ideas – the sort of ideas that save money and make money.

Tracy Sherles, President of Shell Vacation Club gave an excellent insight into the life of the company which is one the largest independent companies in the vacation ownership industry. In particular discussion focused on the benefits of their membership and their Hospitality Monetization Program which was of particular interest to delegates, but also the future expansion of their organization.

Collin Knight Chairman Fairmont Resort Properties Limited and Chairman Canadian Resort Development Association gave an interesting insight into Creative Marketing for Future Products.

Always of interest is an update from our colleagues from Griffith University Prof. Bev Sparks and Dr Graham Bradley who are into the second year of a three year industry research program – Customer value: What
does it mean at different points of the purchase cycle? The research project is funded through the Australian Government, ATHOC and Sponsors and Griffith University.

The research investigates differences in values at three points in the purchase cycle of timeshare (or holiday/resort ownership).

Prof. Sparks explained, “There is great variation in people’s attitudes to timeshare (and to timeshare companies). Some of this variation is because people are different (eg: in how flexible they are), but some of it is probably within the companies’ control.
Perceived financial value (or lack thereof) appears to be the most critical driver of owner evaluations of timeshare. What can the companies do about this? Can they convince owners as to the financial value of their product compared to “internet specials”? How can they help reduce the ‘pain’ of annual fees?

Resort (un)availability is probably the second most important influence on owner evaluations. How can the companies better manage owner expectations regarding availability? How can they help owners maximise their use (their ‘consumptive experience’) of timeshare?

Not all people attend timeshare education seminars, and not all find them helpful. But when they do, satisfaction, loyalty, etc, tend to be very high. How can more owners be encouraged to attend, and how can the seminars better meet owners’ needs”? These are just some of the questions that need to be answered.

The annual Great Debate caused quite a stir with the topic “When is Enough… Enough?” Are the members getting too old? Is the property value too high? Are the levies outweighing the rental market? Or does the concept live beyond these factors? It was extremely difficult for the team speaking for the argument!

There were many other speakers including Phillip Bud from ES On Demand, Dean Kneider from Intrawest, and Amie Cousins from the Financial Ombudsman Scheme to name a few.

Of course it would not be a conference without the excellent networking events. The opening night saw the ICE Breaker party which was held overlooking the pool at the Radisson Denarau.

The Interval International lunch was by the sea with the balmy breeze flowing through the beachfront restaurant.

The Monday night Cocktail Party was done in style by Dial An Exchange at the Denarau Golf and Racquet Club. The attendance was great and the festivities a lot of fun whilst money to attend was raised for the ATHOC Foundation.

The Group RCI lunch saw a number of Resorts rewarded for their hard work and dedication with their Gold Crown Recognition Awards being delivered to those in attendance.

A highlight of the conference was the Bula Awards dinner held on the beach front under the stars. With delegates dressed in Sulu’s and Bula shirts the atmosphere was electric.
Having been entertained by the delightful local village children the guests had the fun and excitement of the Fijian Fire Dancers with their Meke Spectacular. All that was left was to dance the night away under the stars.

Special congratulations go to ATHOC award winners Denise Price from Classic Holidays who received the National Award for Professionalism and Andrew Heslehurst from Group RCI receiving the National Recognition Award. Charisse Cox, MD Group RCI was presented with the Outstanding Service to the Fiji Timeshare Association, and the NZHOC Recognition Award for 2008 was presented to Hilary MacLeod in belated recognition of his enormous contribution to the NZ timeshare industry in the I980’s and early 1990’s.

The conference was a huge success overall with the next to be held on the beautiful Gold Coast in Australia, on Sunday 13, Monday 14, and Tuesday 15th September, 2009. Make sure you put the date into your diary.

ATHOC BOARD 2008 – 2009

President
Ramy Filo – CEO – Classic Holidays

Vice President
Barry Robinson – President and CEO – Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific

2nd Vice President
Joe Bengasino – Managing Director – WMB Lawyers

Treasurer
Carole Smith – Managing Director – Classic Holidays
Charisse Cox – Managing Director – Group RCI Pacific
John Osborne – CEO – Accor Vacation Club
Joe Hickman – Executive Director – Interval International
Phyllis King – Director – Capri Waters Resort
Ivan Hill – GM – Silver Sands Resort
Stephanie Kewming – GM – Korora Bay Village Resort
Martyn Rix – President – New Zealand Holiday Ownership Council

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora – A Cultural Paradise

The most famous of French Polynesia’s Leeward Islands in the heart of the South Pacific, Bora Bora
was formed by a volcanic eruption some four million years ago. Bora Bora is among the youngest land
masses on the planet, born from beneath the sea rather than through continental drift. The island’s
people are a testament to human ingenuity and exploration: the original Maohi migrants, sailing in
large pahi or outrigger canoes with neither the north star to guide them nor a written language to record
their voyage. They traveled vast distances — far greater than any Western culture had yet attempted
— to colonize the many distant islands of the South Pacific. Bora Bora’s original settlers arrived around the
4th century, some thirteen centuries before European explorers stumbled upon it.

The island’s name derives from the ancient Tahitian Pora Pora, which literally translates as “first born.”
When Captain James Cook became the first western explorer to land there in 1777, he translated the
soft inflections of the local language into the name “Bollabolla,” a misnomer whose use persisted into
the 19th century. The West has been enamoured of Bora Bora’s charms from the moment Captain Cook
landed, and it has since attracted both adventurers and artists alike, including James A. Michener, author
of Tales of the South Pacific.

Bora Bora became a protectorate of France in 1842, and French remains the main common language on
the island. During World War II the United States used Bora Bora as a military supply base, and after the war
some military personnel were so taken with the island that they refused to leave.

Both America and Europe have developed longstanding love affairs with the island and its people —
which helps explain why, since the first international resort hotel opened in 1961, Bora Bora has evolved
into one of the world’s top resort destinations. Bora Bora’s idyllic, white sand beaches have become
integral to its legend as a destination for relaxation and romance. Its dramatic mountainous terrain and
pristine lagoon waters are ideal for active vacationers. And its people, steeped in the Polynesian way of life,
are the most hospitable of hosts.

Accommodations
The accommodations at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora are designed to immerse guests in the island’s soothing natural oasis. Situated on one of Bora Bora’s outer motus, the Resort features an unobstructed sunrise view over the Pacific and sunsets over the lagoon and towering Mount Otemanu. The Resort’s living quarters are sustainable designs, defined by the natural light and rhythm of the lagoon.

Traditional thatched-leaf roofs adorn every building at the Resort, made from the leaves of the indigenous pandanus tree, grown on local plantations and woven by local craftsmen. In typical Polynesian fashion, the pandanus leaves overhang on all sides of each building for cover from the tropical sun. Inside, hardwood floors and walls are stained in a light palette that suggests driftwood or coral, while lagoon windows fill the space with magical, turquoise-tinted sunlight as it reflects off the water. Each bungalow contains two
flat-screen televisions with video-on-demand, an island rarity. Rooms are appointed with framed indigenous artifacts, from fishing lures fashioned from mother-of-pearl to fans made of coconut palms. All beds feature unobstructed panoramic views of the lagoon, as do soaking tubs, allowing guests to relax suspended above the lagoon, immersed in Bora Bora’s pristine water, radiance and ocean air.

Each of the Resort’s 100 overwater bungalows measure over 100 square metres (1,100 square feet), and offer pull-out sofas in the living areas to accommodate families. Located on branching piers that extend into the heart of Bora Bora’s inner lagoon at one of its most serene points, guests can view schools of fish below during daytime (and even dive among them from their private berth) or gaze above into the star-filled South
Pacific night.

Among the highlights:
Otemanu Overwater Bungalow with Plunge Pool — The outermost bungalows at the very end of the Resort’s four piers offer 147 square metres (1,576 square feet) of living space and unobstructed views of verdant, majestic Mount Otemanu, whether from the spacious interior living area or the teak chaises longues on the extended deck. Each suite features dining space for four people, whether indoors or beneath a pandanus-thatched outdoor pavilion, highlighted by an infinity-edged plunge pool.

The Resort’s seven beachfront villas provide the utmost in privacy, and are ideal for families or those seeking more in the way of seclusion. Polynesian artwork accents large living spaces, while panoramic views over private pools and hot tub lead directly to the lagoon. Two and three bedroom villas offer large dining areas, both indoor and out, as well as outdoor showers and added services and amenities.

Otemanu Presidential Beachfront Villa — This sprawling, three-bedroom, 500 square metre (5,382 square feet) villa offers the grandest of island accommodations. Upon entering, one is greeted by the vaulted living area, supported by pillars of merbau timber, providing plentiful living and dining space for eight people, opening to panoramic views of the white sand beach and shady palm trees. Each bedroom has its own private ensuite bathroom with garden shower, garden views and outdoor dining area. Outdoors, the 92 square metre (1,000 square feet), naturally secluded sundeck leads to its own private pool, beach and cabana, providing incomparable intimacy and privacy, with a direct view of iconic Mount Otemanu.

Private Residences
A collection of 15 sophisticated private residences offer the ultimate in leisure living. Inspired by local architecture and built to the exacting standards of Four Seasons, these homes present a rare ownership opportunity combining unsurpassed service and amenities with one of the world’s most exotic locations. Four Seasons Private Residences Bora Bora is located within a discrete section of the resort. As such, owners have preferential a la carte access to a wealth of services.

Fully managed and serviced by Four Seasons, the 15 Private Residences on Bora Bora represent one of the most exclusive and desirable resort – home opportunities in the world. Providing either lagoon or Pacific Ocean frontage, these rare and precious homesites range from .5 to 1.25 acres. You may choose from a portfolio of exquisitely appointed architectural designs ranging from 4,000 square feet/ 370 square metres to 11,500 square feet/ 1,070 square metres or create your own personal vision of paradise.

Dining
Bora Bora is a place where French, American and Maohi cultures have met, mingled and flourished. The dining experience at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora captures that rich history in culinary form, which Executive Chef Gilles Arzur calls Polynésien moderne: a base of traditional and nouvelle French cuisine, with American-style fusion, featuring the ingredients and flavours of Polynesia. Dining options include:

Romantic Dinner
The Resort’s grounds offer innumerable palmshaded hideaways and panoramic views of both the lagoon to the west or the Pacific Ocean to the east. Resort staff will gladly serve a romantic dinner by candlelight — complete with Champagne and hors d’oeuvres — in the comfort of the guests’ chosen secluded spot, anywhere on the Resort’s 22 hectares (54 acres.)

Ahi ma’a
Venture to a tiny island nestled amid the Resort’s grounds for a meal made in an a’hi ma’a, or Tahitian earth oven. Traditional dishes, often combining fish and fruit, are wrapped in banana leaves and placed atop hot stones in a deep fire pit, which is then covered with layers of banana leaves and sand. The technique creates an intense yet humid heat; the feast requires a full day for preparation and cooking. The entire experience re-creates the welcome feasts offered to the first European explorers.

Polynesian-Style In-Bungalow Dining
Relax on the deck of your private overwater bungalow, enjoy the setting sun and the emerging stars, and watch as your meal is delivered to you in a ceremonial Polynesian canoe and served with fragrant bouquets of flower petals.

Tere Nui
An open-air restaurant with a 180-degree vista featuring the lagoon, the beach and Mount Otemanu, Tere Nui – a Tahitian term meaning “great voyage” – allows for the island’s natural fragrance to mix with the aromas of fine cuisine. Tere Nui offers refreshing, contemporary twists upon such local staples as i’a ota, or poisson cru, French Polynesia’s signature dish: raw tuna with fresh vegetables tossed in green lemon juice and coconut milk.

The menu changes regularly to feature the freshest local fare as well as offerings from across the South Pacific, from Australian beef and lamb to Chilean salmon. Among Tere Nui specialties: a South Pacific swordfish known as meka, sliced into carpaccio and served with asparagus, sweet potato chips, and the white Sarawak grapefruit of the Marquesas islands.

Arii Moana
The Arii Moana restaurant, which takes its name from the Tahitian phrase meaning “King of the Lagoon,” is a seafood, haute cuisine dinner option. Overlooking the still waters of the lagoon, its thatched roof is held aloft by two 12-metre pillars (40-foot) of solid merbau timber. Guests may choose to dine in one of three dining environments throughout their stay: in the rich, blue-floored dining room, on the loungy restaurant terrace, or even al fresco, close to the water’s edge. Arii Moana offers exquisite fish, ranging from local deep-sea South Pacific tuna, marlin, shark and mahi mahi, to abundant and exotic lagoon species, from moonfish and parrotfish to barracuda. One of the specialties featured is papio, a Polynesian whitefish similar
to cod, cooked a la plancha with a crust of dried passionfruit and fennel confit.

Sunset Bar
Set next to the lagoon in the twilight shadow of Mount Otemanu, Sunset Bar brings the modern refinement of an urban atelier lounge to Bora Bora’s tropical setting. The Bar’s light menu showcases a distinct global flavour: four continentally-themed meals, each with four sampler-sized courses – Polynesian, Asian, European and American. Tropical and classic cocktails are served nightly, providing an ideal atmosphere for pre and post-dining entertainment.

Faré Hoa Beach Bar
From Tahitian meaning “among friends,” and situated between the chaises longues of the pool deck and the sandy, palm-shaded lagoon shore, Faré Hoa serves midday lunch and afternoon bites – as well as tropical cocktails – in a relaxed informal atmosphere. Service is also available direct to poolside, cabanas and beachfront.

The Spa
Situated on the high summit of the Resort’s motu, the Spa at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is where the forces of energy and relaxation meet in harmony — where the surging, raw power of the ocean meets the lagoon’s tranquility, capturing the unique balance that defines Bora Bora. With its soaring 30-metre (100-foot) ceiling, the Spa provides a depth of view in all directions, surrounded by native trees and the fragrance of the kahaia blossom. To the east the vast Pacific tide breaks upon the reef, each wave revealing a different colour as it reflects the tropical sun: shades of azure, ultramarine, cobalt. To the west lies the sheltered, verdant serenity of the lagoon.

Raised walkways, suspended above a plantation of pandanus trees, lead to the Spa’s seven air-conditioned treatment rooms. A spacious couples’ suite with glass floor suspended above the lagoon’s pristine waters is the ultimate experience for guests, providing absolute privacy over the tranquil lagoon. Guests can also combine their chosen treatment with the natural healing energy of Bora Bora’s climate in one of two open-air treatment pavilions, nestled deep within the tropical grove.

The South Pacific has a rich history, called taurumi, of passing down the art of healing massage and therapeutic treatments from generation to generation. It also offers a veritable trove of natural therapies, extracted from native fruits, herbs and other elements that harness the islands’ energy and flourish in its midst. Kahaia flowers are one of the most renowned in Polynesia for their healing powers, and are used throughout the treatments offered by The Spa. Monoi oil, produced by combining native tiare flowers
with the natural oil of local coconut, has been used for skin care by generations of Polynesians, a people known for their youthful appearance. Mother of pearl, or parau, is used in skin treatment for its exfoliating and revitalizing attributes.

The islands’ native vanilla has long been known to traditional medicine for its ability to deepen breathing, as well as for its energizing and aphrodisiac qualities. Sandalwood and frangipani are among the other native scents incorporated into spa therapies. Volcanic basalt forms the foundation of hot stone treatments, sea salt the key element of exfoliating scrubs, and seaweed the basis of full-body wrap treatments.

An experience not to be missed is the Kahaia Haven Ritual – A skin smoothing body treatment begins with a cleanse of naturally exfoliating apricot kernel and aloe, intertwined with the legendary Tahitian black pearl powder and the native fragrant vanilla. Once the skin is prepared, an exquisite volcanic hot stone massage is given. Aimed to maintain equilibrium and inner harmony, this ancient therapy, known as “ofai” in the South Pacific, grounds and centres the mind and body, ensuring physical and emotional balance.

Other amenities within the Spa include sensory steam rooms, whirlpools with both ocean and lagoon views, a Fitness Centre looking out over the ocean and a secluded, open air overwater yoga deck.

Activities
Bora Bora is a paradise not merely to soak up, but to explore and discover up close. Its beaches are among the world’s most beautiful — yet they are only the beginning. Bora Bora can sate any passion, whether for geology, gemology, history, marine biology or culture — or simply a craving for thrill-filled outdoor activity. What sets Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora apart is its ability to forge intimate links between its guests, the islanders and the island itself.

Pool & Lagoon
Set just off the main beach beneath the swaying coconut palms, the Resort’s 40-metre (131-foot) swimming pool complements the lagoon experience. The pool’s deep ultramarine hue leads all the way to its infinity edges, a vivid contrast to the sandy shores of the lagoon. Teak chaises longues lie beneath broad umbrellas on the encircling sundeck, with attendants providing a continuous flow of ice water, chilled towels and Evian spritz.

Next to the pool, beneath the shade of coconut palms, lies the Resort’s sprawling private beach on Bora Bora’s inner lagoon. Guests can bask in the sun or swim the warm, protected, sandy-bottomed shallows. Snorkels, masks and fins are readily available for those eager to chase the schools of tropical fish.
Drinks and food are available poolside, on the beach, or at Faré Hoa Beach Bar, located right between the pool deck and the beach.

Watersports
From the Resort’s watersports pontoon, guests can access a wide range of half-day and full-day watersports excursions. Hop into an outrigger canoe and paddle out to a nearby reef, then dive and snorkel among the tropical fish, or embark on a round-the-island Sea-Doo tour. The sheltered confines of the lagoon are also the perfect place to learn to parasail, kite-surf, or scuba dive.

Adventurous guests can set out on more ambitious off-site activities beyond the lagoon and into the open waters of the Pacific. Sportfishers can charter a vessel and head out in search of Mahi Mahi, blue marlin, skipjack and other deep-sea fish. For a close-up taste of island ecology and culture, full-day guided tours in a motorized outrigger canoe will take guests diving, ray and shark feeding.

Island Sports
Both tennis and beach volleyball courts are located nearby for those in the mood for a little competition. For tennis, the QuickCourt surface provides a cushioned hardcourt suitable for all-weather play, while the volleyball surface is, of course, Bora Bora’s fine white coral sand.

Excursions
Once outside the Resort, guests can take in the island’s splendour in a myriad of ways. Complimentary bicycles are available at the Four Seasons Harbour on the Bora Bora mainland for those who wish to tour the island’s breezy 32-kilometre (19-mile) ring road, stopping at the Lagoonarium to swim with sea turtles. Land Rovers can escort guests on history tours of the island, exploring ancient marae temple ruins at sea level, then up the steep sides of Mount Otemanu to visit American World War II installations — from storm bunkers to tunnels to cannons. Experienced hikers looking for a real challenge can make the trek up Mount Pahia or even Mount Otemanu. Those seeking a true bird’s eye view of Polynesian beauty can tour the region via helicopter.

SCUBA and snorkeling enthusiasts will delight in the many locations within the island’s lagoon and outside the ring into the Pacific Ocean. Underwater worlds of coral reveals colorful reef fish, rays, eels and shark. Local guides lead the way for exploration and learning of the island’s ecosystem and culture.

Bora Bora also offers a wealth of cultural treasures ready to be discovered. Explore the art and science involved in cultivating the Tahitian black pearl, one of the world’s rarest and most valuable gems. Take a dance course and learn the steps to the ‘aparima, the hivinau and the ote’a. Hand dye a Polynesian pareu, or sarong.

Or learn how the ancient Polynesians first developed the art of tattooing, with intricate floral and geometric designs that symbolize family, lineage and loyalty. The original procedure was excruciatingly painful: natural dyes were hammered into the skin by hand, a process known in Tahitian as tatau — from which “tattoo” is taken.

Guests can also delight in the lagoon’s ecosystem, with the Resort’s own marine biologist on hand to tour the diversity of fish, mollusk, bivalve and coral life. Using a telescope to observe the starry night sky, discover how the ancient Mahai mariners sailed thousands of miles across open ocean without a North Star to guide them. And uncover the ancient Polynesian lunar calendar, which helped predict when fishing harvests would be most bountiful, and the techniques still used today to herd fish into enclosed underwater pens.

Shopping
On-site and off-site shopping includes the finest in Tahitian black pearls. From the Resort’s on-site boutique, shoppers can learn about the culturing process and choose among works by Polynesia’s finest jewelry designers, or create their own designs and choose the pearls that will adorn them. The islands also feature the finest Polynesian artifacts, from Bora Bora’s hand-painted Polynesia’s Marquesas Islands. Renowned for its wood carvings, stone tiki sculpture, and breadfruit-parchment tapa hangings,
Polynesian art is inspired by the tropics and hewn of artisanal ethos and skill.

Families
The teeming life of the island and its lagoon, set within the natural sanctuary of the surrounding atoll, is the perfect place for children and parents alike to explore the ocean the island and it’s ecosystem. With lifeguards, instructors, guides and a marine biologist on staff, children’s and family programming features activities designed for fun and for learning.

Kids for All Seasons
Designed for children from ages 5 to 12, Kids for All Seasons offers complimentary full day programming. The facility features a circular wading pool and a clubhouse with games, movies and other activities — not to mention a steady supply of ripe local fruits and freshly squeezed juices. Activities will include short excursions to picnic lunch hideaways, canoe rides on the lagoon, team sports and yoga. Kids will race miniature, remote-controlled boats and all-terrain vehicles. Treasure hunts, both on land and underwater, will have kids hunting down clues that lead them to the hidden bounty while teaching them about Polynesian nature and culture along the way. With the clubhouse located close to both the pool and the beach, parents can enjoy the Resort while knowing their children are nearby and supervised.

Chill Island
Away from the children’s clubhouse, a five-minute walk from the main beach, is a vast area reserved for older kids: Chill Island. Teenagers can hang out in their own clubhouse or on their private beach with ice cream parlor, or even wade across the inner lagoon to explore one of the Resort’s small, fully contained inner motus. Teenagers also have easy access to the tennis courts and to a full range of watersports gear, from snorkels to surfboards.

On-site activities are programmed to offer lots of opportunities with few obligations: teenagers can take part in group activities or make their own plans. Options include everything from beach volleyball tournaments to underwater treasure hunts to open-air movie viewings. Polynesian cultural activities will be a central theme of programming.
Teens can participate in Tahitian dance and drumming, discover how to hand-paint their own pareu, and learn how to spot a ripe coconut — then how to husk, shell, and milk it. They will learn the adventurous seafaring history of the hand-carved Maohi outrigger canoe — then race across the lagoon in the latest fiberglass models. Meanwhile, the watersports pontoon is the launch pad for guided off-site activities, whether for half-day or full-day excursions. After dinner, torchlight beach socials will keep them entertained until day’s end.

Events
The event facilities at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora can bring the island’s lush splendour to any gathering. Social events and weddings can bask in every aspect of Polynesian hospitality, delighting in the culture’s sense of celebration and sensuality in everything from food to dance to live music. For a traditional Polynesian wedding ceremony, known in Tahitian as the Oroà Faaipoipo Raa, the bride is escorted by Tahitian guides in a ceremonial canoe to her waiting groom, either on the beach or in the Resort’s open air chapel, where vows and kisses are exchanged against the backdrop of a sunset over Mount Otemanu. The couple, enveloped in a tifaifai or Polynesian quilt, is then celebrated with traditional dance and song.

For group dinners or large gatherings, dedicated space allows for complete creativity and intimacy. Whether it be a beach barbeque, a fire dancing show or a fine dining gala, dedicated space for up to 100 is always at the ready. The Resort’s secluded open-air pavilion features 114 square metres (1,226 square feet) of space and can accommodate seating for up to 100. The pavilion lies beneath a vaulted, 10-metre (25-foot) pandanus dome and has its own adjacent private beach, allowing for coffee or cocktails to be served
at the water’s edge — all in total privacy from other resort activities. In the evenings, the beach can serve as a stage for private entertainment. Open-air culinary themes such as the a’hi ma’a are also available to groups.

The Resort’s 70 square-metre (750 square feet) air-conditioned event room, with a veranda overlooking the lagoon, is fully equipped with the latest in multimedia technology, and can serve as a meeting hub, private breakfast room, resource centre or boardroom. For smaller groups, the Presidential Suite offers a devoted location ideal for full-day meetings requiring break-outs or multi-tasking, with plasma screens, pantry,
and seating for eight people both inside and on the exterior deck.