“One of our company’s core values is giving back to the communities we live and work in,” said Stephen P. Weisz, president and chief executive officer of Marriott Vacations Worldwide. “For over 28 years, we have been passionate supporters of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Thanks to the commitment of our associates and valued partners we are able help make a critical difference in the lives of children right here in Central Florida.”

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Two of the most effective, interactive and socially-designed business events on the vacation ownership industry calendar are approaching, as members of the Cooperative Association of Resort Exchangers (C.A.R.E.) prepare for their next round of semi-annual conferences in 2012. C.A.R.E. organizers are moving full steam ahead with preparations for their events, to be held in St. Pete Beach, Florida in May and Nashville, Tennessee in September, as members plan to come together to network and create strategic partnerships in two of the top visitor destinations in the United States.

The group’s 54th Semi-Annual Conference is slated for May 5-8 at the Sirata Beach Resort and Conference Center in St. Pete Beach, and the location makes perfect sense to C.A.R.E. President Alain Carr of American Resorts International.

“Most C.A.R.E. member companies are located in the eastern part of the U.S., making traveling expenses reasonable for most attendees. And the Sirata Beach Resort is a great place to hold a conference,” said Carr. “St. Pete offers the opportunity for operational personnel to check a premier domestic vacation area while they are networking with other resort professionals like themselves.”

C.A.R.E. Vice-President Dave Dawson of Global Connections agrees, saying that “Historically the membership enjoys warm weather conference locations. With a Gulf front location in early May and close proximity to major airports, we believe the conference will be well attended, plus the area offers attendees the chance to learn about the Florida Gulf Coast while enjoying fun and educational networking
opportunities.”

Why C.A.R.E.?
C.A.R.E. is a trade association established in 1985 by representatives of timeshare resorts who found that by exchanging vacation inventory among themselves, they were better able to satisfy their owners with increased vacation opportunities. Today, member companies are also able to utilize inventory and generate revenue through wholesale rentals while continuing to offer expanded fulfillment options. C.A.R.E. member companies currently offer 2,500 vacation properties and service approximately one million vacation owners and members through its affiliates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe and Australia.

Tourism numbers continue to climb in the North American market, with a recent TripAdvisor hotel business survey of accommodation owners and managers revealing that 65 percent of U.S. respondents are optimistic about the prospect of an economic recovery in 2012. U.S. respondents also expressed a bullish outlook on their own profitability in 2012, as 76 percent said they expect their businesses to be more profitable in 2012 than they were in 2011, as compared to a global average of 58 percent.

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According to Dan Lubner, President of the Lubner Group (www.LubnerGroup.com) and Clive Daniel Home (www.CliveDaniel.com) in Naples, Florida, “Our design professionals created a timeless design by blending the true essence of Sanibel’s Island spirit with a tropical color palette and natural textures for this popular property.”

Inspired by the resort’s beachfront location, the Lubner Group selected a design embracing a relaxed island lifestyle for the new furniture packages, crafting custom furnishings in warm wood tones, accented with rust and orange as a companion to matching draperies and soft golden walls.

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Since the opening of the first phase two years ago, the beachfront resort located on Florida’s well known Singer Island at 3200 North Ocean Drive in Riviera Beach has maintained ninety percent plus average annual occupancy levels presenting significant demand for the second and final tower. Marriott’s Oceana Palms represents the brand’s 50th resort and was designed by San Francisco and Miami-based SB Architects and has also received strong support from Mayor Thomas Masters and officials from the city of Riviera Beach.

“Our Oceana Palms resort is truly spectacular and offers a very appealing and unique high-rise, beachfront resort experience for our Owners and guests to enjoy,” said Lee Cunningham, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer-North America and Caribbean, Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation. “We’re very pleased with the progress on the second phase and upon completion look forward to welcoming more of our Owners to vacation at this beautiful resort and destination,” said Cunningham.

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Sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Andy Gardiner of Orlando, the bill limits a resale company’s ability to take up-front fees from timeshare owners and requires proof if a resale company makes a claim to a seller that they have a buyer looking to purchase a timeshare.  The companion bill in the state House of Representatives, House Bill 1001 sponsored by Representative Eric Eisnaugle of Orlando, passed the House Business and Consumer Affairs Subcommittee by unanimous vote on Tuesday.

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The resort placed 18th overall, based on reviews and opinions from millions of travelers around the world. The Residences received high marks for its luxurious accommodations and white sand beach, and was one of only three resorts in Florida chosen for the award.

According to one reviewer, The Residences on Siesta Key Beach “ranks on my list as one of the best. The rooms are luxurious and well appointed. It was difficult to leave this wonderful facility, but we will be back again.”

Other resorts on the list included the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea in Wailea, Hawaii and The Grand Del Mar in San Diego.

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Located at 1500 Alberta Street on the Atlantic side of Key West, the vacation ownership resort is set against lush gardens and quiet walkways with white verandahs and French doors opening to the sea. The Lubner Group’s design challenge was to blend existing Victorian gingerbread architecture – rich with living history – with a fresh lifestyle in an updated tropical design that invited guests to relax in serene tranquility. Amenities include a pool, Jacuzzi, and private beach. The resort has been named an Interval International Select Resort.

The Lubner Group (www.LubnerGroup.com) completed the six-month total interior renovation project in three phases. Work included the selection of all furniture, fixtures and equipment for the 32 one- and two-bedroom/two bath units plus the resort’s lobby. The Lubner Group also provided design direction for the kitchen and bath cabinetry and flooring.

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Celebrated for its dedication to refined elegance at the world’s best addresses, the debut of The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort in the affluent Bal Harbour enclave heightens the appeal of this coveted international destination: at once a secluded escape with unrivaled amenities as well as a destination at the intersection of art, design and fashion all within reach of the vibrant energy of Miami Beach.

“With its incredible array of rich amenities and proximity to Miami Beach, Bal Harbour has long called for a world-class resort and the arrival of The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort now offers an ideal destination for affluent global travelers,” says Paul James, Global Brand Leader for St. Regis and The Luxury Collection. “With refined elegance infused throughout, this resort offers a return to glamour and we believe it is a befitting debut for St. Regis in this important international gateway city.”

The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort offers guests a new dimension of bespoke luxury with 243 guest rooms and suites and 245 private residences, all offering expansive private balconies with ocean views, in three glass towers rising 27 stories above a sprawling stretch of beach. With exquisite design by world renowned interiors firm Yabu Pushelberg, the resort features intricate details including one-of-a-kind West African Movinque wood and Chinese God Flower Stone marble commissioned exclusively for the resort from a private quarry. The resort and residences also offer signature St. Regis Butler Service, a Remède Spa and a world class dining experience inspired by Jean-Georges at J&G Grill®.

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Mr. Picciano has more than 20 years experience in the vacation ownership industry with a proven track record of exceeding revenue and profit expectations. He joined the company as a consultant in 2009. Over the last two years his role evolved and he became a leader in the successful rollout of Legacy Points, the company’s new vacation ownership product that offers more flexibility than traditional timeshare ownership.

As the president and chief operating officer, Mr. Picciano will continue to advance Legacy Vacation Club according to the company’s vision of becoming the provider of choice for families seeking friendly, comfortable and affordable vacation experiences.

Sea Harbor Office Center consists of an eight-story office building containing approximately 356,000 rentable square feet and a five-story parking garage; it is anticipated WVO will occupy six floors of the building. Sea Harbor Office Center is a premier class “A” office facility, which will include a fitness center, a renovated, full-service cafeteria with outdoor seating and other first-class amenities.

While WVO is currently developing the construction and occupancy timelines and other unique workspace requirements, the new building will allow WVO to redesign its Orlando campus environment and consolidate all of its associates into one single location. It is also anticipated that the move will enable WVO to increase efficiencies, and support the culture and its core values including a strong commitment to sustainability and responsible environmental practices. WVO will seek LEED Gold Certification, having previously achieved LEED Silver Certification here in Orlando.

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The award focuses on companies that help their employees reach and maintain balance through comprehensive and creative benefits packages and programs. The firm specializes in handling timeshare/vacation ownership companies, owners associations and other clients with assurance, accounting and tax compliance services.

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Interval employees Kathy Olivares and Monica Fonseca with “Santa” Rafael Monteiro and children during the 18th Annual Interval International/City of South Miami Holiday Toy Fest

Interval employees supported the event by donating gifts and volunteering their time during Toy Fest, one of the many community service initiatives that the company hosts throughout the year. Rafael and Virginia Monteiro played Santa and his elf to help make this holiday a special one for the children.

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Attendees hailing from the U.S., Canada, Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico heard from Interval executives, including Craig M. Nash chairman, president, and CEO of Interval Leisure Group, who discussed the company’s initiatives to assist them in achieving operational excellence, as well as sales and marketing advantages suited for today’s economic climate. Special guests Darla Zanini, executive vice president of the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) International Foundation, presented findings from the 2011 State of the U.S. Vacation Timeshare Industry and John F. Mulrey of AdviCoach Business shared insights on today’s changing population demographics and what this means for the future of the hospitality industry.

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Disney Vacation Club plans to build an estimated 147 villas as part of a previously announced expansion of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, one of the premier resort hotels at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Estimated to open in late 2013, this new resort experience is slated to be the 12 ^th Disney Vacation Club property and will be located near the spa and wedding pavilion at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. In addition to villa accommodations, plans for the expansion include a children’s water-play area and other amenities.

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“Travelers around the world know and trust Four Seasons, and Walt Disney World is the world’s premiere family vacation destination,” said Meg Crofton, president Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Operations US & France. “Together, our two companies offer a brand-new reason to visit and experience Central Florida.”

With an opening anticipated in 2014, Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort will feature several dining venues including a rooftop restaurant with Magic Kingdom views; a 14,000 square foot spa; fitness center; three pools and a “lazy river;” sports and recreational facilities; meeting and event space plus a business center.

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Ortiz-Rauscher oversees the on-site operations for the fractional and rental programs. She supervises the activities of all department heads and their staffs and sets strategies for achieving growth goals and objectives, revenue generation, cost control, guest satisfaction and employee development.

Eloquence Residences, located on the semi-private island community of North Bay Village, is a socially conscious property that offers whole ownership, fractional ownership and rental opportunities. Situated within a mile of Miami Beach and nearby South Beach, Eloquence Residences is in a prominent location, ideal for families and travelers.

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This month, Hilton Grand Vacations went around the world to see and talk to their owners while they were out enjoying their vacations and captured not only beautiful locations but from-the-heart words on why vacations are important and why timeshares are a better way to vacation. The video captures owner experiences on the beaches of Hawaii, the wonder of the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, and the streets of New York City to name just a few.

Bill and Phyllis Hopkins of Ohio are this month’s spotlight owners. They have been Hilton Grand Vacations Club Members since 2007 and they own at West 57th Street by Hilton Club in New York City as well as at Parc Soleil by Hilton Grand Vacations Club in Orlando. When asked why they love their timeshare so much, they said, “Membership resolves the potential ‘beach house dilemma’ of vacationing in the same place year after year. Our passion is to explore new places and discover new cultures.” With timeshare they have gotten to do that, visiting Paris, Brussels and London as well as many U.S destinations.

With over 8 million owners and a satisfaction rate of 85 percent and an occupancy rate that outpaced hotel occupancy by more than 20 percent*, it is clear that this segment of the travel industry is faring well. Take the time to find out why. Visit http://www.VacationBetter.org for more information.

Next month, look for happy owners from Wyndham Vacation Resorts who are passionate about their timeshare.

“We have enjoyed a long-standing and successful relationship with Summer Bay Resorts, and are pleased to be continuing that relationship,” said Gordon Gurnik, president, RCI. “We are also glad to continue offering these quality properties to our 3.7 million subscribing members, many of whom have enjoyed memorable vacations in Florida, Tennessee and Missouri at these world-class resorts.”

The affiliated resorts that are a part of this agreement are: Summer Bay Resort, Villas at Summer Bay Resort and Houses at Summer Bay Resort of Orlando, Fla.; Gatlinburg Town Square and Gatlinburg Town Village of Gatlinburg, Tenn.; Mountain Meadows Resort of Pigeon Forge, Tenn.; Crown Pointe Links of Farmington, Mo.; and Vacation Villas at the Summit of Clarksville, Mo.

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For nearly 30 years, Orange Lake Resorts has used equipment that processes 1,800 pounds of laundry per hour with 3 gallons of water used per pound, and completing the day’s work of 28,800 pounds of laundry over two shifts.

Orange Lake’s new Milnor equipment consists of a PulseFlow Milnor CBW washer, a Single Stage press, and four pass-through dryers. The new equipment processes 4,000 pounds of laundry per hour, using only 0.3 to 0.4 gallons of fresh water per pound, with the day’s work of 30,000 pounds of laundry finishing in just one shift.

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Employees were challenged to incorporate PEEPS^® in their entries in the form of dioramas. The company’s human resources department won first place with its “Angry PEEPS” entry, depicting a scene from the phone app game “Angry Birds.”

From left: City of South Miami officials and guest judges Walter Harris, commissioner; Brian D. Beasley, commissioner; Hector Mirabile, city manager; and Rene Landa, major, police department, pictured with Sharon Freed, senior vice president, consumer marketing, Interval International (center).

Guest judges included City of South Miami officials Hector Mirabile, city manager; Brian D. Beasley, commissioner; Walter Harris, commissioner; and Rene Landa, major, police department.

The new project includes a 14,000 square-foot activity building, which features an owners lounge, family activities center, business center, game room, workout facility with sauna and steam room and banquet facilities to enable the resort to host large gatherings. With architecture by L2 Studios, the outdoor area includes a zero-entry pool with two 35 foot waterslides, a 750 foot lazy river with a bridge and an interactive kiddy splash pad. The renovated and enlarged pool bar paired with two spas, an outdoor double-sided fireplace, ten cabanas and a spectacular fountain to create an environment ideal for total relaxation. The final touch to the facility is the indoor golf simulator, adding a unique variation to the modern amenities and resulting in WPC’s (www.WPC.com) largest project for the resort to date.

Adds Jeff Forrest, President of WPC, “With over three decades of construction and general contracting services, our experience has enabled us to build just about anything imaginable. Creating innovative amenities has provided added value to our clients and is a nice compliment to our extensive experience in the resort industry.”

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As a result of a partnership with Lubert-Adler, L.P., a real estate equity firm which owns the resorts, Salamander has assumed the management of Reunion Wyndham Grand Resort and Hammock Beach Resort. Salamander has owned and operated Innisbrook Resort since 2007.

“Florida is the world’s greatest year-round and most-accessible golf and vacation destination, and we are creating an experience unlike any other,” said Johnson, who made the announcement accompanied by ten-time Major Championship winner Annika Sorenstam. “This resort concept has never before been accomplished, and because of the unique characteristics of each property, it cannot be replicated. There are numerous synergies between the resorts, and their geographic locations make them natural partners.”

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Holiday Inn Club Vacations Sunset Cove Resort joins the flagship location, Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort in Orlando, Fla., and five other Holiday Inn Club Vacations resorts. Travelers can book vacation villas at all seven resorts at www.holidayinn.com, just as they would any Holiday Inn hotel room.

The addition of Sunset Cove Resort follows the recent announcement that the brand will add another resort in Las Vegas to its portfolio in 2012, which will be the first Holiday Inn Club Vacations resort in the western U.S.

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“As part of our alliance with IHG, we said we’d grow Holiday Inn Club Vacations in places where our Holiday Inn Club Members have said that they want to vacation,” said Don Harrill, president and CEO of Orange Lake Resorts, the timeshare developer that manages Holiday Inn Club Vacations properties. “Our Members have asked for another drive-to destination in Florida, and Sunset Cove Resort delivers just that, with a unique and upscale experience for all owners and guests who visit.”

Like all Holiday Inn Club Vacations resorts, this location at Sunset Cove Resort offers more space, more amenities and more things to do, including three-bedroom residences ranging from 1,667 square feet to 1,900 square feet, with views of either the Gulf of Mexico or Smokehouse Bay. The resort offers a host of amenities for guests including a pool with sundeck, a bar and promenade area, boat dock and fitness center. The property is currently a part of Resort Condominium International’s (RCI) distinguished Registry Collection program.

“At Holiday Inn Club Vacations, we offer great resorts where families can create their own vacation experiences,” said Del Ross, vice president, U.S. Sales and Marketing, IHG. “We offer our guests the flexibility to vacation when, where and how they want to, all under the comfort and security of a well-known and trusted brand like Holiday Inn.”

Orange Lake Resorts plans to bring all Sunset Cove units into its upscale “Signature Collection” product line. All units will undergo a total of $1.7 million in upgrades, including renovations planned by the resort’s condo association, as well as enhancements to interiors like granite countertops in the kitchen and bath areas with glass tile backsplashes, ceramic tile in the living and dining areas, detailed wood ceiling moulding, stainless appliances and luxurious furniture appointments with rich textural fabrics. The pool deck area will also be enhanced with upgraded lounge chairs and poolside furnishings accompanying the Signature Collection color palette.

In-room amenity upgrades will include flat-screen televisions in bedrooms, as well as in the kitchen area, and bedding and bath appointments standard to the Signature Collection brand, featuring bath crystals and a Signature Collection-monogrammed bathrobe.

Through IHG’s guest loyalty program, Priority Club Rewards, guests renting villas at Holiday Inn Club Vacations resorts earn Priority Club points during their stays at Holiday Inn Club Vacations, which they can redeem for free nights at IHG properties or exchange for merchandise and special experiences. The resorts also welcome members of the Holiday Inn Club exchange program, which allows members to exchange their weeks at any Holiday Inn Club Vacations resort for hotel nights at IHG’s more than 4,400 hotels worldwide. Holiday Inn Club members also have access to RCI’s network of more than 4,500 resorts. [/members]

During the past year and a half, Tarzen International refurbished more than 120 units at the popular property, with most work done while the resort was operating at 98% occupancy. An additional 36 units will be completed at the first of next year.

Added Miki Todd, President of Tarzen International (www.TarzenInternational.com), “During the last phase of this work, which was finished within 50 days, all materials had to be stored offsite and brought into the property on a daily basis. This was a challenge, but we are all about working within each client’s specific guidelines.”

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On the conference agenda are sessions led by top industry experts that will explore the business models of traditional timesharing, fractional development, and private residence clubs. Featured speaker Jeffrey Ma, who co-founded Citizen Sports, a visionary sports media company, will explain how Web 2.0 is changing business and revolutionizing branding. Attendees will also hear from Peter C. Yesawich, Ph.D., the widely quoted marketing strategist and trend-spotter, who will present findings from his agency’s 2011 Portrait of American Travelers^tm.

Among the hundreds registered for next week’s investment gathering are representatives of several large national financial institutions that are involved in shared ownership or have recently entered the business, as well as financiers evaluating the industry.

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Through this special, limited-time Military Appreciation Offer, U.S. soldiers (and their families) who have served in The War on Terror, Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom can book a complimentary weekday stay in a king studio villa at one of Westgate’s full-service resorts in Orlando, Florida. Minutes away from world-class area attractions including Walt Disney World Resort & Universal Orlando, Westgate offers convenient access to exciting entertainment options for a memorable Orlando family vacation.

“Having served in the armed forces myself, I am extremely proud of the great American tradition of service to our country,” said David A. Siegel, Westgate Resorts founder and CEO. “I consider it a privilege to provide 1,000 complimentary vacations to these deserving American heroes.”

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“Florida is home to millions of timeshare periods that consumers purchase. We cannot allow unscrupulous individuals to mislead and defraud our consumers who are attempting to sell their timeshares, many of whom have invested their life savings into their dream vacation homes,” stated Attorney General Pam Bondi.

“I am proud to stand with the Attorney General to introduce legislation that will further protect consumers who purchase timeshare properties in Florida and later lose their money due to fraudulent resale practices,” stated Senate Majority Leader Andy Gardiner.

“Timeshare properties are a vital part of Florida’s tourism and resort industry. People who purchase these properties should be protected from the misleading and deceptive practices being used by dishonest timeshare resale companies,” said Representative Eric Eisnaugle.

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“For more than 10 years, we’ve had the pleasure of recognizing hundreds of Winners Circle recipients for their impressive sales achievements,” said David Gilbert, Interval’s executive vice president of resort sales and marketing. “These individuals are standouts at their respective companies and we’re very appreciative of their contributions to Interval and to the shared ownership industry.”

As guests of conference founder Interval, the finalists will attend educational sessions and special events, as well as have the opportunity to meet industry leaders. They also will be eligible to win a $5,000 cash prize.

The 2011 Winners Circle honorees are:

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The hotel, conveniently located at 14651 Chelonia Parkway, is managed by Wyndham Hotel Management, Inc. and resides alongside the Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort, a 1,149-unit timeshare resort operated by Orlando-based sister company Wyndham Vacation Ownership.

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Within easy reach of the multiple entertainment attractions Orlando has to offer, this new addition to the Melia Hotels International portfolio is the perfect complement to the brand’s existing high-end family friendly properties. Just minutes away from Walt Disney World ® Resort theme parks, Melia Orlando is the perfect destination for a family getaway. Orlando, FL is the number two tourist destination in the United States, and will act as yet another platform for the brand to strengthen its fan base in the United States as part of an intensive global expansion strategy.

“We are delighted to add this great hotel to our international portfolio and to offer our loyal guests the Melia Hotels International experience in this sought-after destination,” said Melia Hotels International CEO and Vice Chairman, Gabriel Escarrer. “This is a key component of our strategy to grow and diversify internationally, and add to our presence in the United States, which we started last year with the addition of the Melia Atlanta Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia. It is also an example of great integration and teamwork between our Orlando-based vacation club team, Club Melia, under the leadership of Executive Vice President Denis Ebrill who identified and negotiated this deal, and the Melia Hotels International team in Miami, under Senior Vice President Alvaro Tejeda Schroder, who has driven the takeover and transition of this highly attractive property to the Melia brand and operating standards.”

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Deliver the Dream creates programs that enable families undergoing crisis or chronic illness to regain strength, mend spirits and enjoy being parents and children again. The program organizes retreats that allow family members to alleviate stress, enhance coping skills and enjoy time together.  The three day retreats include workshops for family members that address issues such as improved communication, anger management, self-esteem building, accepting loss, fighting depression and affirming strengths.

The Deliver the Dream program remains free for families, thanks to the generous donations and contributions from sponsors, partners and volunteers. Bluegreen both sponsors and volunteers for the program.

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“Four Seasons had the unique opportunity to purchase a fantastic site at the Walt Disney World Resort,” says Kathleen Taylor, president and chief executive officer of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “Then, we partnered with Silverstein and Dune, some of the world’s most astute players in real estate to develop the project, which enabled financial commitments to be secured and the project to move forward. We are also delighted to work with The Walt Disney Company, which shares our vision for a family vacation experience unlike any other.”

Toronto-based Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, the world’s leading luxury hotel brand, acquired the land from Disney in August 2008, and will retain a 30 percent ownership interest in the project in addition to operating the resort.

Four Seasons has been working closely with New York-based Silverstein Properties, one of the nation’s most respected real estate development, ownership and management organisations, since July 2009. Silverstein advanced the design and master plan for the new resort in consultation with Four Seasons, including acquiring necessary approvals, assembling and directing architectural and engineering teams, and negotiating the construction contract with Turner Construction. This effort enabled financing to be secured.

“We are very pleased to be working with Four Seasons on this exciting project,” says Larry Silverstein, president and CEO, Silverstein Properties, which will continue to oversee resort development and construction. “It’s a great design in a great location, and we’ve assembled a great team who are going to make this resort a reality in a few short years.”

New York-based Dune Real Estate Partners, a highly regarded real estate private equity fund led by Daniel Neidich, is the majority investor.

“The opportunity to partner with Silverstein and Four Seasons, both distinguished leaders in their respective fields, has given us the confidence to make a significant investment in a new development,” says Neidich. “This is an irreplaceable asset – a rare opportunity in a remarkable location, with a prestigious brand that we believe will provide attractive returns to our investors for many years to come.”

Mexico City-based Grupo Financiero Inbursa has agreed to provide USD 190 million in construction financing for the project. Grupo Financiero Inbursa is one of the largest banks in Mexico, and this is their second large construction loan in the US.

“Four Seasons continues to seek out innovative partnerships with like-minded individuals and organisations who share our vision,” says Scott Woroch, executive vice president, worldwide development, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “Despite the difficult financing environment brought on by the global economic downturn in the last few years, the development concept we created with our partners for this unique site attracted debt and equity sponsorship, and is now moving forward.”

About Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

The development will include a 444-room Four Seasons resort plus up to 40 Four Seasons Residence Club units and up to 90 Four Seasons Private Residences. Within the resort will be several dining venues including a rooftop restaurant with Magic Kingdom views; a 14,000 square foot (1,300 square metre) spa with 18 treatment rooms; a fitness centre; three pools and a “lazy river”; sports facilities including tennis courts, basketball court and climbing wall; two recreational centres for children, teens and families; and approximately 37,750 square feet (3,500 square metres) of meeting and event space plus a business centre. The development will encompass the existing Tom Fazio-designed Osprey Ridge 18-hole championship golf course, which will be renovated and subsequently managed by Four Seasons. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is an enclave located within the Golden Oak residential community, created and master-planned by Disney.[/member]

The conference offers developers, hoteliers, and lenders the forum to learn about the viability of various shared ownership business models, including traditional timesharing, fractionals, and private residence clubs. Other highlights will be a look at the state of the industry, financing, sales and marketing, and converting existing real estate assets to shared ownership.

David C. Gilbert, executive vice president of resort sales and marketing for Interval International, conference founder and patron sponsor said, “We created this event as a means to educate potential entrants, lenders, and government regulators about the many opportunities in shared ownership. It’s been extremely gratifying to be a leader in the industry’s efforts to grow the business, and to share our access to valuable resources with the thousands of delegates who have attended our investment conferences around the globe.”   

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To be considered for the Best Companies To Work For in Florida recognition, companies underwent a two-part survey process. The first part consisted of evaluating each company’s workplace policies, practices, philosophies, systems and demographics. The second part consisted of an employee survey to measure employee satisfaction. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking.

“Companies that retain the best employees with strong workplace programs typically stand out from the crowd by offering exceptional customer focus from a friendly, upbeat staff,” says Andrew Corty, publisher for Florida Trend. “It’s our pleasure to recognize these great organizations and encourage others to join them in building Florida’s competitive advantage.”

RCI has recently received other accolades for its positive environment for employees, including placement on the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s Best Places to Work list, recognition as one of the Best Places of Work in New Jersey by NJBIZ Magazine and the Employer of the Year award by the American Resort Development Association.

“Being named among the many great organizations on Florida Trend’s Best Companies To Work For list is a reflection of the phenomenal associates we have working in our Florida office and across the globe,” said Gordon Gurnik, president, RCI. “Our associates demonstrate unparalleled passion and spirit, which has created a genuinely fun and gratifying place to work.”

The Best Companies To Work For in Florida program was created by Florida Trend and Best Companies Group and endorsed by the HR Florida State Council. Best Companies Group managed the overall registration, survey and analysis process and determined the final rankings. Companies were not required to pay a participation fee to go through the online assessment process.

For a complete list of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in Florida, go to www.floridatrend.com/best_companies.asp. [/member]

Initial renovation by WPC (www.wpc.com) included the demolition of an outdated kiddie pool, tennis courts, a playground and volleyball court. These were replaced by upgrades to the 4-acre amenity site, which features a new “R Aqua Zone Water Playground.” This water playground features a teen and tween play area with two twisting, turning water slides, periscope guns, a gyroscope spinner, shooting water jets, a water windmill and many other activities.  Toddlers also enjoy their own pint-sized wading pool with a slide more than 20 mini-water jets and a rain tree.

To further enhance the area’s popularity with guests, a brightly colored tensile (stretchable) shade structure provides a modern fresh look to compliment the Renaissance-branded resort. Water features, slides and a new restroom building blend architecturally with the existing facilities. A new event lawn with its trellis structure and area landscaping connects the entire project and provides an ideal setting for special games and activities.  WPC also assisted the hotel owner with the permitting process and assumed additional work and coordination responsibilities to ensure the entire project was completed within the allotted timeframe.

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Chambers noted that the firm is “known for its resorts work in Florida and the Caribbean. The backbone of its practice comes from mixed-use projects, involving management agreements, development and financing matters. In the past year the group represented Hard Rock Hotels in the drafting and negotiation of management agreements for hotels in Qatar and Miami, among other places. It also advised Hyatt on the documentation process for several mixed-use projects in several locations, including New York and Miami.”

Chambers made special mention of Rob Webb and John Melicharek, as Webb was highly recommended by peers as an acknowledged expert in timeshare-related matters. Melicharek was described as efficient, knowledgeable and good at solving problems, with his main specialties including mixed-use matters.

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Last year, Beso Del Sol Resort (www.besodelsolresort.com) hosted the first Blooming Luau, raising $10,000 in donations for the Blooming Place for Kids organization. The event was so successful the resort hosted its second event this summer, attended by 250 people, generating $63,000 to send kids to camp. Participation came from some well-known Tampa companies and philanthropists, including the Chris T. Sullivan Foundation, Ed and Cindy DeBartolo, Ed and Marsha Droste, the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey team, and Friendly KIA auto dealership. Le Roy Selmons sponsored the food for the Polynesian-themed Blooming Luau.

The event was held at the 80-unit Beso Del Sol Resort, just north of Clearwater on Florida’s West Coast. The resort is one of five Global Connections, Inc. (GCI) company-owned and managed resorts. GCI (www.exploregci.com) is a nationally respected travel club in the vacation industry.

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With more than 40,000 existing Tempus owners, this acquisition further expands Diamond’s offerings in Central Florida and South Carolina. Tempus operates Mystic Dunes Resort & Golf Club in Orlando, Florida and has ownership in Dunes Village Resort in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Located on over 600 acres in Central Florida and just minutes away from the major theme park attractions, Mystic Dunes provides more than 700, fully furnished, one, two and three bedroom units, as well as an 18 hole championship golf course. From an Atlantic coast beachfront location in Myrtle Beach, Dunes Village brings a new location to Diamond Resorts International. 

According to Stephen J. Cloobeck, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Diamond Resorts International, “We have strategically positioned ourselves as a global leader and competitor in the hospitality industry and engage in future plans for further growth and development as this acquisition marks significant momentum in global growth initiatives. We are not only committed to delivering service excellence, but also to providing more choices to all of our owners, members and guests.” 

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Island One filed a Chapter 11 bankruptcy case in September 2010, and its plan of reorganization was confirmed and became effective in May 2011. The reorganized company will retain operation of its eight resorts in Florida and divest of certain other inventory and assets. The Company’s executive team remains intact, with Deborah Linden, Board Co-Chair, focusing on business development and strategic planning, Sterling Stoudenmire IV assuming the role of Chief Executive Officer of Island One and Sulyn Stumbras assuming the role of Chief Executive Officer of Island One’s management company.

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Business leaders from throughout Central Florida gathered yesterday at the Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort for the 9^th Annual RCI Christel House Open, benefitting Christel House International.

About 130 participants came together for the golf tournament and luncheon in Orlando, FL, which was held in conjunction with 14 other locations during a four-week span over three continents as a global fundraising initiative for Christel House.

Don Harrill, Orange Lake Resorts, Cheryl Wendling, Christel House and Kris Jamtaas, RCI

“We are so thrilled. RCI and Orange Lake Resort have been part of this tournament since the very beginning. This is our ninth year and every year they keep taking it up another notch and another notch. Just a fantastic day,” said Cheryl Wendling, Senior Vice President, Christel House International. “It’s the volunteers in all the different locations that make it happen. We try to give them as much support as we can but if it wasn’t for our volunteers, our site hosts and our sponsors, this wouldn’t be possible.”

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“I am delighted to serve as the new GM of Sea Shells,” said Angelina Kauffold. “We know that our guests continue to return year after year because of the high level of service they receive from our staff. We are extremely responsive to their comments and will continue to provide our guests and their families with a wonderful vacation experience.”

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“We are extremely proud and excited about our new name, new look, new branding and positioning,” said Denis Ebrill, Executive Vice President of Club Meliá.  “It’s an upscale, updated and impactful way to say in a couple words who we are and what we do, while being joined at the hip with the new positioning of our corporate office in Spain.  We have a lot of exciting things to achieve this year and our new name and new look is the driving force behind it.”

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According to a report in the Orlando Business Journal, the restructured company will retain operation of its eight resorts in Florida and the company’s executive team remains intact. Board co-chair Deborah Linden will focus on business development and strategic planning while chief operating officer Sterling Stoudenmire will take over as CEO of Island One Resorts.

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Commented Tanya Bleuel, Director of Yield Management for DAE, “We have members that often have their hearts set on a certain vacation destination, but found that there were no timeshare resorts in that location or there was limited availability. We also learned that many of our members were purchasing additional accommodations to extend their annual vacation and often paid as much as $2,000 per week for their accommodations. We created daeOptions by forming alliances with non-timeshare resorts to allow our members to rent or exchange their timeshare week for a seven-night stay and ultimately enjoy a vacation in their dream destination.”

DAE members can rent daeOptions weeks at highly discounted prices or they can exchange into any daeOptions property by depositing their timeshare week and paying an exchange fee from $350 to $450.

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In addition to sponsoring the HOLA Conference, two of Interval’s key executives will be speakers at the event. David Gilbert, executive vice president of resort sales and marketing, will participate in the “HOLA Leader’s Panel,” and Marcos Agostini, vice president, resort sales and service, Latin America, will be part of the “Session 08: Ask the HOLA Experts: Understanding The Business Case And Today’s Opportunities In The Vacation Ownership Sector.”

“Tourism is an important component of the Latin American economies and we see a great opportunity for the continued development of shared ownership within the hospitality segment,” said Gilbert. “Our objective is to continue to provide valuable insight to both tourism officials and developers in the region.”

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The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) recognized their top industry leaders at the annual Awards Gala of the 2011 Convention & Exposition, held in Orlando, Florida. The evening event, sponsored by Holiday Systems International (HSI), showcases the outstanding accomplishments among individuals, teams, resorts, and companies in a variety of categories.

“It’s about recognizing the ‘best of the best’ in the vacation ownership industry,” said Howard Nusbaum, president and CEO of ARDA. “We shine the spotlight on those individuals whose peers have nominated them for the impact and perseverance they have shown in their professional lives.”

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Pardon us if we blow our own horn! Here at Collections Unlimited, Inc. (CUI) of Crystal River, Florida, we are celebrating our 25th Anniversary in the resort collection industry. Why have we been in business 25 years? Because we are only in the business of collecting delinquent mortgages and maintenance fees for the resort industry – that is our only business.

CUI offers a full range of credit and collection services, credit inquiries and skip tracing (locating). We are affiliated with Experian to ensure you have the most effective credit reporting systems available. With offices in both Florida and Colorado, and a multi-lingual collection staff, we can handle your accounts, both domestic and international.

Today’s Market
The bleak global economic outlook has caused a marked decline in resort receivables and is impacting budgeting for day-to-day resort operations. Joblessness, home foreclosure rates and bankruptcies – combined with a stagnant economy and soaring fuel costs – have ultimately caused consumers to place payments for items viewed as luxury purchases on the backburner. Vacationing is being cut to a minimum, and many owners see association assessments or timeshare mortgages as a non-necessity, thus leaving a deficit in many budgets or crippling future funding.

Hiring a third party collection agency to collect delinquent assessments acknowledges that there are budgetary problems and brings light to income shortfalls among the ownership. However, in-house collections cannot match the success rate of outsourcing to a professional third-party agency. The only solution to a receivables problem is to place that problem in the hands of professionals who not only talk about collections, but put the missing monies back into your bank account.

Innovation and Experience
CUI is an innovator – we are capable of designing collection programs for your resort’s receivables needs. We regularly update our collection software to meet the growing needs of our clients. We pride ourselves in offering the most state of the art technology available to assure our clients the maximum possible results.

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Susan previously managed the entire rental program for Vacations Only, and is very excited about the potential for now leading a timeshare rental division that is entirely commission based and never requires any type of upfront marketing or advertising fee from consumers.

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