Attendees from as far away as Australia, United Arab Emirates, Malta and Brazil converged for three days of outstanding panel discussions, informative presentations and clever social events to produce the most unique, globally-focused industry networking event on the 2012 calendar.

Participants such as Francisco Neto, Executive Director of Rio Quente Resorts in Brazil, Ashraf El Zarqa, COO of Emirates Vacation Club and Ramy Filo, CEO of Classic Holiday Group gave resounding reviews of the event, as the combination of audience-driven panel debate, business meetings, speed networking and nightly parties created an environment for delegates to build new and lasting relationships.

Numerous business deals were finalized throughout the event as the specially-designed networking lounge and extended networking time built into the conference agenda gave attendees the time and atmosphere to create strategic partnerships.

More information about GNEX 2012 will be available during the next few weeks on the conference website at http://perspectivemagazine.com/gnex.

Our thanks go out to our GNEX 2012 event sponsors and supporters:

Blue Strawberry Resorts,  Holiday Systems International, Sunset World Resorts, Dial an Exchange, Resort Television, Travel To Go, Interval International, Lloydshare, RCI, BuyaTimeshare.com, Customer Count, Emirates Vacation Club, First American Title Insurance Company, Hop-On, Merlin Software, Sell My Timeshare NOW, Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific, Track Results Software, Travel Guard, YachtsE, Circle One BlueBay Resort, El Cid Vacation Club, Grand Velas, Mayakoba Residences, Royal Resorts, Unlimited Vacation Club, Alternative Ownership Conference Asia Pacific (AOCAP), Australian Timeshare and Holiday Ownership Council (ATHOC), Cooperative Association of Resort Exchangers (CARE), Canadian Resort Development Association (CRDA), The Pacific Institute, Ragatz Associates Fractional Interest Conference, Resort Development Organisation (RDO), The Association for Timeshare Owners Committees (TATOC), Vacation Ownership Association of Southern Africa (VOASA), Women in the Industry (WIN) and Christel House International as Charity of Choice.

Next year’s event is already on the 2013 calendar as GNEX 2013 – The Global Meeting Of Minds makes its first foray into the United States at the world famous Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California during February 4-6, 2013. More information will be available in the coming weeks on the conference website at http://perspectivemagazine.com/gnex.

About Perspective Magazine

Perspective Magazine is the leading independent, multi-media information provider for the shared ownership industry. The company publishes five regional brands covering North America, Latin America, Europe & Middle East, South Africa, and Asia Pacific which are, combined, the most read independent trade publications globally for the vacation ownership industry.

The company’s consumer magazine, Owners Perspective Magazine, is the only independent consumer publication that specializes in promoting the benefits of buying shared ownership products to the general public and is also available as a specially customized developer edition for lead generation, in-room marketing and third party sales collateral. Owners Perspective Magazine’s online version, http://ownersperspective.com, also features a new guaranteed lead generation program specifically designed for resorts and developers. The site will host the company’s latest endeavor, Vacation TV, a streaming 24/7 online video channel full of information about vacation ownership products and services.

Perspective Magazine also operates a recruitment advertising service through TimeshareStaff.com (http://timesharestaff.com ),  fractional property listing services and a customized in-room Resort Television product that encourages on-site spending and vacation ownership sales.

GNEX is the company’s annual global networking expo which gathers the top industry professionals from around the world to network, create new strategic alliances and develop joint ventures that can benefit their businesses.

Perspective Magazine also publishes online through http://perspectivemagazine.com, hosts an online community of industry professionals through Perspective Forums, engages a social media audience of over 44,000 followers through its corporate social media accounts and is a media sponsor of 30 major industry events around the world.

For more information, please visit http://perspectivemagazine.com or email Steve Luba at steveluba(at)perspectivemagazine.com. For information on advertising and editorial opportunities visit  http://perspectivemagazine.com/advertise.

SECTUR, The Mexican Ministry of Tourism reported that the number of air arrivals in December 2011 was up 13 percent compared to the same period in 2010. More than 1.07 million international travelers visited Mexico in the last month of 2011, a record for December.

In addition to an increase of visitors from the US (10.6 percent) and Canada (9.1 percent), Mexico received significant year on year increases from Spain (6 percent), Italy (10.5 percent), Argentina (21.4 percent), and France (12.4 percent).

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Since opening in 2009, Honua Kai Resort & Spa has sold and closed more than 410 units resulting in more than $518 million in real estate sales. Playground Destination Properties Inc., Real Estate Broker for Honua Kai Resort & Spa has noted recent purchasing trends from residents hailing from the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Alberta, in addition to the western United States cities of Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego.

“We are very pleased with the number of real estate sales at Honua Kai this past year,” said Susan Jackson, director of sales for Playground Destination Properties Inc. (Playground). “Those who decide to purchase a luxury condo at Honua Kai recognize the exceptional value they are receiving, incredible amenities and outstanding location on the Kaanapali Beach front.”

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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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A select number of RCI affiliated resorts meet RCI’s requirements for recognition and have earned the RCI Gold Crown Resort award. These resorts have attained high levels of excellence in resort accommodations, hospitality and member experience as measured by RCI.

“4 Seasons at Desert Breezes Resort is honored to have achieved this prestigious RCI designation,” said Tom Newman, director of Resort Operations at TPI. “The association’s board of directors, through diligent planning and oversight and working with its managing agent, Trading Places International, plan to maintain this Gold Crown status by providing owners and guests the quality accommodations and services we are known for.”

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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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The $15 million architecturally striking spa at Grand Velas Riviera Maya, a recipient of Virtuoso’s “Best Spa” award, is inspired by the jungle and natural water pools of the Yucatan Peninsula. Almost 40,000-square feet are given to separate men’s and women’s sides of the spa’s Water Journey, each with custom-designed amenities including a Clay Room, a circular glass-tile-lined steam room with a fiber-optic “star light” ceiling, an Ice Room with floor-to-ceiling window, hot-and-cold Experience Showers, and a central infinity pool with powerful massaging faucets throughout and carved-stone chaises with jets set just underneath the surface of the water on which guests recline.

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Over the past decade, hotels have implemented and promoted sustainability programs including greener operations-energy efficiency, water conservation and recycling, and green building through the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED® certification program. With operational sustainability awareness levels at 80% among consumers surveyed, the industry has succeeded in telling at least part of the story.

This means that the concept of hotel sustainability is being factored into hotel purchase consideration. Hotel air quality is a prevailing consumer concern: four in ten consumers list indoor air quality as a highly important in their selection criteria. Hotels that promote higher indoor air quality earn higher favorability ratings among almost two-thirds of consumers surveyed.

At the same time, the study showed that there is a gap between how the industry communicates its sustainability efforts and the areas of sustainability that consumers see as important. On the one hand, emphasis on promoting the operational aspects of sustainability has resulted in high consumer awareness of energy efficiency, water conservation and recycling. At the same time, in spite of the fact that consumers see air quality as important, only one-third of those surveyed recalled promotion of indoor air quality as part of a hotel’s offering.

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Westin Kierland

According to Rick Cratty, Director of Operations for FARROW, “we never leave a job site without getting some feedback.  At the close of 2011 we went through our files and were pleased to find an overwhelming amount of “Atta boys!”

With numerous construction projects completed this year, FARROW reports that 100% were rated as “outstanding in all categories.”  For instance, from the General Manager of the Hilton in Fort Wayne, IN comes this review:  “Overall best renovation process I have every experienced!”  Scott Caldwell, Resort General Manager at the Westin Kierland Villas in Scottsdale says FARROW exhibited “Great leadership, Quality and Customer Care.”  In Branson the client was “very pleased with the overall communication, flexibility and cleanliness” for a project at Branson Suites at Fall Creek.  Mark Sedillo, Resort General Manager at the Ridge Resort in Sedona put it honestly when he said FARROW made the process as “painless as possible.”

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Triton’s integrated software suite is well known in the shared ownership industry which has been revolutionized by technology over the past few years.

As sole sponsors of the ARDA MediaWalls Triton will provide large flat screen TVs which broadcast announcements, coverage of special events and live social media updates via Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.  The screens will be in high traffic areas such as registration, educational session corridors and in the trade show portion of the convention.

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“Members will appreciate the spectacular setting of Jardim Atlántico, as well as the wide-range of amenities and activities available on-site or nearby, everything from restaurants serving regional cuisine to wellness treatments and water sports,” said Marcos Agostini, Interval’s vice president of resort sales and service for Latin America.

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“The concept of becoming a headhunter came about rather naturally,” says Trowbridge. After retiring with a distinguished career as a leading timeshare developer, Keith was frequently asked to provide connections for timeshare companies looking for executives.  “Gradually, the personal recommendations led to establishing Executive Quest, Inc. 18 years ago.”

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At Spirit Incentives, Mr. Ferrelli’s duties will include maximizing the value of the company by optimizing cash flow through planning, evaluation, and communication of financial information. He brings direct senior level experience in financial planning and cash flow management. He has reduced expenses, prepared annual budgets, and sales tax returns in different companies such as Signature Consultants and Muvico Theaters.

“We are enthusiastic to have John join our team. He brings the financial planning and forecasting experience” says Gary Baron, Chief Executive Officer of Spirit Incentives. “As we continue to grow the organization, it is critical that we have the support of a strong financial leader. We look forward to John’s contribution to our ongoing success.”

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Attorney General Pam Bondi issued the following statement on the unanimous passage of the “Timeshare Resale Accountability Act,” House Bill 1001 in the House of Representative’s Business and Consumer Affairs Subcommittee on Tuesday. House Bill 1001 is sponsored by Representative Eric Eisnaugle; the bill’s counterpart, Senate Bill 1408, is sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Andy Gardiner.

“Timeshare resale fraud is my office’s number one complaint and this good bill will protect timeshare owners from deceptive and unfair marketing practices that attempt to defraud consumers,” stated Attorney General Pam Bondi. “I applaud Representative Eric Eisnaugle and the House of Representative’s Business and Consumer Affairs Subcommittee for unanimously passing this bill today.”

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“With the ever-changing state health care reform, Festiva decided to move from being a partially self-funded program to partnering with Wells Fargo in a fully-funded insurance plan with a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) for two basic reasons. We want our employees to get the best benefits available and we want to ensure the long-term health of Festiva and our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP),” said Terri Kirkpatrick, Human Resources Manager for Festiva.

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iO Adria Limited today announced the affiliation of its Dubrovnik Sun Gardens property to The Registry Collection®, the world’s largest luxury exchange programme, and part of the Wyndham Worldwide family of brands (NYSE: WYN).

Situated on the coast near to the village of Orašac, Dubrovnik Sun Gardens is 20 minutes from Old Town Dubrovnik and just 45 minutes from Dubrovnik International Airport. Boasting one of the most comprehensive spas in the Adriatic, The Spa by OCCO is recognised as a world leading spa, having just won the prestigious Spa Traveller Awards for ‘Best International New Spa’ beating some of the top names in the business. The resort has its own private beach, 13 bars and restaurants, three pools and an extensive sports club. The resort also offers some of the largest and most flexible meeting spaces in Dubrovnik and Croatia with capacity for up to 900 delegates and is quickly becoming a destination resort of choice for meeting and conference organisers across Europe and North America. The resort complex includes a 201-room contemporary Radisson Blu hotel.

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Created to challenge the established resale formula, Confused About Timeshare offers independent advice for buying, selling and renting timeshare accommodation.  The team offers a wealth of industry knowledge and experience; ensuring customers are fully informed when making decisions about their ownership and holidays.

Company owner Mark Bell is a proven timeshare resale
specialist with a hands-on and creative approach to the business. He began his career with a leading timeshare trustee organisation in the Isle of Man, setting up a specialist department managing complex transfer of ownership and escrow facilities. He moved to a consultancy role and eventually ran a London-based resale provider. 

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In 2011, Hilton Worldwide opened a total of 170 hotels and gained supply share in each of its global regions. In the United States, Hilton Worldwide has over 10 percent of the room supply market share, the largest in the country, as well as over 18 percent of the active industry room pipeline in the planning to construction phases.(2)

“In recent years Hilton Worldwide has thrived by successfully navigating a number of challenging macroeconomic factors and pursuing an aggressive global growth strategy,” said Christopher J. Nassetta, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hilton Worldwide. “Our momentum will continue with one of the largest pipelines in our history and in the industry.”

Development Success

Last year marked several development-related milestones for Hilton Worldwide, including:

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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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Grand Pacific Resort Management chose UMEUS Consulting to provide a critical element of their management training program. Nigel Lobo, VP of Operations commented, “I was looking for something that would energize my management team, something new and exciting. I was intrigued with the concept of motive and wanted to see how it would work with our organization. I am delighted with the results”

Candace Vigil, Senior Consultant at UMEUS Consulting says, “Research shows that emotional intelligence, often referred to as “soft skills”, is four times more important than IQ in gauging career success. Interpersonal skills, unlike IQ, can be learned and improved, yet this is an area often overlooked when training teams. The results of the Color Code Personality Assessment, pioneered by Dr. Taylor Hartman, PhD, are unique to each individual and provide clear insight into why you do the things you do. The training we provide teaches you how to take that information and apply it in real life situations. By understanding motive, you can change behavior to produce the desired results.”

Resort management can be intense and stressful. Trying to manage guest expectations, complex schedules, and internal demands can create a tense work environment where misunderstandings can escalate into serious problems. Understanding core motive and learning to communicate effectively with others can reduce stress, improve the level of employee engagement, and enhance synergy.

Doreen Bechard, Regional Director of Resort Operations said, “A lot of training programs are exciting at first, but they die out within a day when you return to your usual busy schedule. The Color Code stayed alive in our organization because of the comprehensive follow up provided as part of the training. ow it’s become part of our culture and daily conversation.”

James Tennery, Resort General Manager, had this to say, “I’ve never seen a concept saturate our organization as quickly and completely as the Color Code training. It has become ingrained in our daily conversation. The Color Code has become part of the culture at Grand Pacific Resort Management.”

Mr. Lobo continues, “Training is an important component here at Grand Pacific Resort Management. We implement a number of different methods to keep our team motivated to deliver memorable vacations to our guests and owners.  Our management team really benefitted from this method which dovetails nicely into our other programs.  The training provided by UMEUS Consulting supports our mission and keeps us moving in the right direction.”

The complimentary Walk to Cure Diabetes luncheon took place at the Boca Country Club in Boca Raton, Florida. The event was hosted by Bluegreen President and CEO John M. Maloney, Jr., along with Lisa Jensen of First Southern Bank who served as Walk Corporate Development Chairman and JDRF Board of Directors. Mr. Maloney is serving as Walk Corporate Chairman.

A core belief in Bluegreen culture is the value of philanthropy. Bluegreen believes philanthropic work benefits everyone—those who receive the philanthropic efforts and the community in which those involved with philanthropy live.

“I am honored to serve as Walk Corporate Chairman,” stated Maloney. “Our community is very supportive of the work that JDRF does, with many serving on committees, as sponsors and volunteers. I know we will maintain our steady pace of keeping awareness of diabetes and its complications in the forefront, as well as the need for financial support of research.”

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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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The comprehensive resort sections provide an informative over-view of what each of the resorts have to offer, complete with stunning images, so guests can find out everything they need to know before they arrive. For detailed information about the suites, the accommodation section offers full descriptions and a selection of beautiful photographs so visitors can really get a feel for the resort.

Each resort has its own temperature and weather section which updates in real time. This handy addition to the site allows visitors to see what the weather is like in their chosen location at the time they are browsing the site.

The ‘What to Do’ sections of the website offer very useful information about the exciting events and activities on offer at each resort and surrounding area, so users can begin planning and thinking about what they want to do during their vacation before they arrive.

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Tufnell and family enjoyed warm Thai hospitality, five minutes from the island of Phuket, at the luxury all-villa resort The Village Coconut Island.  Taking time out not only to challenge The Village Coconut Island League Team but to host a charity dinner as Ambassador of the Absolute World Group – Thailand’s leading and multi award winning vacation ownership brand – attended by local dignitaries, press and cricket enthusiasts. The event raised EURO1,325 for Absolute’s charity of choice, the Phuket Has Been Good To Us Foundation, supporting children effected in the Thailand Tsunami disaster.

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Fitch’s report, ’2012 Lodging & Timeshare Outlook: The Penthouse View,’ provides a cross-sector perspective of the industry. Positive operating fundamentals support a stable outlook across four subsectors, including lodging C-Corps, lodging real estate investment trusts (REITs), CMBS with high hotel exposures, and timeshare asset-backed securities (ABS).

Hotel property-level operating performance should continue its solid improvement in 2012-2013 as a result of a favorable supply/demand outlook.

U.S. RevPAR remains roughly 5% below the 2007 peak. Fitch’ 2012 base case currently reflects 4%-5% industrywide RevPAR growth in the U.S., followed by mid-single-digit growth in 2013.

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Beautifully situated where the mountains meet the sea, the resort features seven one- and 16 two-bedroom apartments. It is a 10-minute walk from Hills Beach and Korora Bay, favourite places for surfing and fishing in the South Pacific Ocean. Joe Hickman, Interval’s executive director for Asia Pacific, noted, “Korora Bay is the ideal spot for family holidays at any time of the year. On-site amenities run the gamut from swimming pools to a lighted tennis court and a large barbecue and outdoor group dining area. There is plenty to do nearby as well, including whale watching and exploring two national parks.”

The hinterland of Coffs Harbour has many beautiful areas to discover, including Dorrigo National Park with its magnificent waterfalls, waterholes in the Friday Creek area, and picturesque drives through Nana Glen. Sea kayaking and surf rafting, kayaking in Bongil Bongil National Park, snorkelling at Solitary Island, deep sea fishing, and white water rafting are just a few of the many activities available in this part of Australia.

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While the timeshare industry has long advocated the healthful benefits of regular time away to rejuvenate and relax, resort developers continue to expand their vacation products with more options and access to healthful programs and activities.

“Health and wellness amenities are growing in popularity among timeshare owners and resorts are now using these programs to attract new timeshare consumers unfamiliar that such vacation products exist,” says Howard Nusbaum, president and CEO of ARDA.

Many timeshare resorts have expanded their offerings to include health and wellness components such as fitness programs, enhanced spa services, cuisine packages, weight-loss regimens and concierge services to customize a specific healthy vacation experience.

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“We are proud to be organizing and co-sponsoring the Shared Holiday Ownership Workshops in 2012,” said Sean Lowe, managing director, EMEAI, RCI. “At RCI, we value education and lively discussion surrounding industry topics, and the interactive programs for these three workshops will provide new information and perspectives to all attendees.”

Topics covered at these workshops will include:

• Why shared holiday ownership?
• The range of shared holiday ownership options including timeshare, fractional and mixed-use models
• How shared holiday products work
• Legal structures
• Efficient and effective sales and marketing
• Customer care

The workshops boast an impressive lineup of speakers who will make appearances in at least one of the workshops, including: Dimitris Manikis, RCI; Paul Mattimoe, Perspective International; Philip Bacon, HVS; Christopher Allen, Hutchinson & Co Trust Company; Eric Gummers, Howard Kennedy; Piers Brown, Fractional Life; Lisa Migani, FNTC; Philip Broomhead, FNTC; and Ioannis Verdelis, Best International.*

The co-sponsors of the workshops are HVS, FNTC, Howard Kennedy, Best International and Citadel.

Visit www.SHOWorkshops.com for more information and booking forms.

*  Speakers may be subject to change

About RCI
RCI is the worldwide leader in vacation exchange with over 4,000 affiliated resorts in approximately 100 countries. RCI pioneered the concept of vacation exchange in 1974, offering members increased flexibility and versatility with their vacation ownership experience. Today, through RCI^® Weeks, the traditional week-for-week exchange system, and RCI Points^®, the industry’s first global points-based exchange system, RCI provides flexible vacation options to its 3.7 million RCI subscribing members each year. RCI is part of Wyndham Exchange & Rentals and the Wyndham Worldwide family of brands (NYSE: WYN). For additional information visit our media center, rciaffiliates.com or The RCI Blog. RCI also can be found on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.

About The Registry Collection program

The Registry Collection program is the world’s largest luxury exchange program comprising over 33,000 members and more than 160 affiliates on six continents. More than 180 properties are available through The Registry Collection program and are either accessible for exchange or under development. From condo hotels and high-end fractional resorts to private residence clubs and fractional yachts, The Registry Collection program provides members with access to an elite network of the finest vacation properties at some of the world’s premier destinations, as well as personal concierge services that are available 24 hours a day. The Registry Collection program is offered by RCI, the worldwide leader in vacation exchange and part of the Wyndham Worldwide family of brands (NYSE: WYN). For additional information visit our media center or theregistrycollection.com.

“As we commemorate this milestone, we would like to acknowledge the continued dedication of long-standing partners like Interval that make it possible for us to sustain the quality programs that have such a positive impact on our industry,” said Alec Sanguinetti, director general and chief executive officer of CHTA. “We hope to exceed the record attendance and vendor participation set in 2011 at this year’s event.”

“Caribbean Marketplace serves as one of the most important venues for connecting hoteliers with tour operators and wholesalers interested in promoting Caribbean vacations. Business conducted at this conference helps ensure the growth and success of companies in the region and we are proud to be a sponsor,” said Neil Kolton, Interval’s director of resort sales and service for the Caribbean and Florida.

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Pricing is now at levels not seen in Denver for many years. In a move that significantly changes the luxury market in Denver, many prices have been reset to almost half of where they had been previously. Spacious two bedroom homes are now priced starting below USD 800,000 and the incredible half-floor Estate homes have seen their prices reduced by as much as USD 3,000,000. Examples of current pricing include:

– A two-bedroom 3,011 sq.ft., 22nd floor Maroon Bells floor plan: USD 1,643,900

– A two-bedroom 1,951 sq.ft., 33rd floor Ellingwood floor plan: USD 999,900

– A four-bedroom plus den 5,193 sq.ft., 42nd floor Capitol floor plan: USD 4,850,000

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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.

According to Jason C. Gamel, ARDA Vice President of State Legislative Affairs, “ARDA welcomes the participation of Jeanette Bunn on the newly formed Travel Club Task Force. As the President of Travel To Go and a leader in the travel services industry, we believe her knowledge and experience will provide great value to the Task Force in accomplishing its goals.” The Task Force, which initially met during ARDA’s fall conference in November, will work to develop an educational white paper on the Travel Club industry aimed at educating the ARDA Board and general membership along with its initial thoughts on how the industry should be regulated. It is anticipated that the resulting document may become one of the leading resources in the public domain pertaining to Travel Clubs. To accomplish that goal, the Task Force will be divided into Education and Legislative Sub-Task Forces.

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Ending the year with a flurry of expansion activities, Grupo Vidanta continues its aggressive plans on growing the number of offerings in the luxury segment. The two new locations now provide a total of 315 new suites ranging from master rooms, single bedroom suites, two bedroom suites, villas and Presidential suites.

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Grand Luxxe Riviera Maya

Grand Luxxe Riviera Maya debuted two triangular shaped buildings with Grand Luxxe Riviera Maya I and II, opening December 19, 2011 and November 11, 2011 respectively.

Located 23 miles from Cancun’s International Airport and buried deep in the exotic jungle, visitors can escape the mundane and enjoy the wonders of the mangrove, its flora and fauna, the breathtaking coral reef and the majesty of the towering Ceibas trees.

Wide, refined spaces exude relaxation and opulence while surrounded by the natural, exotic beauty of the Riviera Maya. Spacious fine wood terraces blend in harmoniously with modern, comfortable furniture to create an experience second to none. Delight in the tropical sophistication from your heated pool as the Caribbean sun dips over the horizon.

“Grand Luxxe has put a stake in the ground by redefining what luxury travel truly means,” says Eric DuBaele, Director of Hotel Operations at Grupo Vidanta. “The new villas and suites at Riviera Maya are a welcome addition to an extremely popular international destination. Our clientele can enter a world where their every need is met during a vacation experience unlike any other.”

Grand Luxxe Nuevo Vallarta

The Grand Luxxe Tower III opened on November 11, 2011 with a breathtaking view over the Nuevo Vallarta resort grounds, the glimmering ocean and a vantage towards the heart of Puerto Vallarta.

The Grand Luxxe Tower Punta also opened on November 11, 2011 and is located on the edge of the beautiful Ameca river just steps from the beach. Surrounding the tower is a private lake that leads to the majestic infinity pool, the lower beach deck with a choice of four Jacuzzis and a unique view of the Banderas Bay as the backdrop. The Grand Luxxe Tower Punta also debuts a new suite format that can be reconfigured to create a three bedroom Presidential suite with capacity for ten guests.

“Nuevo Vallarta has seen tremendous demand as travelers flock to its appealing combination of sun, sand and proximity to the small town charm of Puerto Vallarta,” continue DuBaele. “The two new Grand Luxxe towers expand capacity and ensure greater choice and flexibility for our clients.”

Both expansions also feature “The Burger Custom Made,” a restaurant concept blending the familiarity of the burger with the gourmet offerings of Kobe beef, fois gras, crab, seared tuna and duck; burgers are accompanied by delicious side dishes such as red wine confit onions, wild mushrooms, blue cheese and more.

Setting the Bar for Luxury

Since its debut in early 2010, Grand Luxxe has set the bar for personalized luxury travel in the affluent vacation segment. Sumptuous suites and villas provide between 2,300 and 3,000 square feet of room, among the largest in the resort industry. Accommodations at the Grand Luxxe spare no details and include custom marble flooring, fine accents, rich wood furnishings and luxurious upholstery. Bathrooms exude an air of luxury befitting a spa and offer guests a place to unwind in the free standing tubs.

Modern amenities abound, including private plunge pools on the balcony, private butler service for each floor, 50-inch flat panel televisions, Wi-Fi Internet access, Blu-ray players, in-room Jacuzzi and 24-hour room service, personalized transportation and medical service. Grand Luxxe pampers its visitors with full health spas and fitness centers, a unique Kid’s Club camp experience and a world-class Nicklaus-design 18-hole golf course that is a delight for pros and casual players alike.

Grand Luxxe fans are some of the most passionate in the industry and frequently interact through social media outlets including Grand Luxxe’s Facebook Page, providing a feeling of camaraderie among its clientele. Join in on the conversation at http://facebook.com/grandluxxe .

Learn more about Grand Luxxe by visiting us at http://www.grandluxxe.com .

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“Worldgate’s IT requirements were a little more varied than what a cookie-cutter system could offer,” comments SPI VP of Sales Matt Brosious. “Thanks to SPI’s use of table-driven technology, our system will be flexible enough to encompass their needs. We anticipate that they will enjoy using our suite of software products to help them handle their business operations much more efficiently than ever before.”

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During the traditional Three Kings breakfast held for the media in Cancun and the Riviera Maya, the tourism group announced the acquisition of this coveted award by the Riviera Maya ecotourism resort. In addition, a 2012 schedule of important cultural, environmental and sports events in order to boost tourism in the Mexican Caribbean was presented.

The Brand Director of Sunset World Group Annie Arroyo reported that Green Globe presented the High Achievement to Hacienda Tres Rios for achieving the highest score in the 320 indicators in environmental, social and cultural sustainability in the region of Mexico and Latin America.

The sustainability certification system developed exclusively for the travel and tourism industry also granted this recognition to; Anantara Seminyak Resort & Spa, Bali (Asia / Pacific), Club Med Djerba La Douce, Tunisia (Africa), Hotel Concorde Berlin , Germany (Europe), Mövenpick Dead Sea, Jordan (Middle East) and Bucuti Beach Resort, Aruba (Caribbean).

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Joseph Allen agencies will coordinate all PR and marketing efforts for the project through sell out of all 432 available 1/12 fractions.

“We are pleased to be working with Joseph Allen Agencies for this exciting project,” said Glenn Sigmund, President, Real Estate Division FG Worldwide. “We are confident that all three organizations working together will make this fractional sales endeavor a successful one.”

Each two-bedroom, two-bath, 1000 sq. ft. (90 sq.m.) condominium comes fully furnished, and each has either a balcony or a patio with views of the property, the bordering national park, or the sea.

Perspective Magazine ( http://perspectivemagazine.com ) announces that internet advertising and timeshare resort services company, Sell My Timeshare NOW will be the Lunch sponsor during Day Two of GNEX 2012 – The Global Meeting of Minds, scheduled for January 31^st – February 2^nd, 2012 at the Ritz Carlton Cancun in Cancun, Mexico.

“Sell My Timeshare NOW and Timeshare Broker Services are enthusiastic to be a part of GNEX 2012, and part of the exciting changes in the ways timeshare is bought, sold and rented worldwide,” said Jason Tremblay, Founder and CEO, Vacation Hotdeal Companies, Inc., and Sell My Timeshare NOW.

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Over a 10-month period ConTech Construction worked to transform the worn and aging Royal Floridian Resort in Ormond Beach, FL into the stunning property it is today. The resort’s improvements have garnered huge unanticipated income and savings and led to the project being crowned the 2011 “Project of the Year” by the International Concrete Repair Institute. This award has historic significance as it is the first ever honor for a timeshare property.

Since the renovation, the resort’s rental revenues have experienced a 22 percent increase generating $52,000 over budgeted revenues. The electricity consumption has decreased by 25 percent, corresponding to $40,000 savings in only 9-months. The association hospitality expenses (guest compensation for problems related to the resort amenities) have decreased by 50 percent compared to 2009.  Maintenance payroll also decreased by 24%, due to fewer problems and service calls from guests. 

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“We are extremely pleased to offer our customers a modern power catamaran with particular emphasis on improving comfort on board,” said Raul Bermudez, VP of Sales and Marketing at MarineMax Vacations. “With a forward walk-through from the huge fly-bridge, electric stove, water maker, electric barbeque grill, wireless connectivity, genset, air conditioning and water maker, we are confident that these two-cabin, two-head power cats will deliver the comfort standards that MarineMax Vacations demands for our customers.”

Power Catamarans are the “Cats Whiskers” for Cruising the Tropics

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“I’ve seen how often the typical IT professional is faced with the monumental task of creating and connecting a system of patches between multiple outdated systems,” says Brosious. “This document details the unique features of SPI Orange, and discusses how it helps a timeshare company adapt to the technology needs of today.”

Visit SPI’s web site for instant access to this one-of-a-kind industry report.

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According to a report in cayCompass.com, Morritt Properties has set a goal of doubling time-share ownership to more than 30,000 members.

“I’m so excited about the future,” owner David Morritt said in a news release. “We’ve had a brilliant year, and it’s only going to get better.”

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Led by partners Pete Watzka, Steve Burks, Chuck Patton and Bob Phillips, CSG is in the business of providing customized solutions for each client, including implementation plans that build long term enterprise value.  In the words of partner Pete Watzka, “I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and anxious to utilize our unique blend of talents to assist clients.  Customer Solutions Group is not merely a consulting practice; we are “solutionists” for each customer we serve.”

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Divi Resorts, the largest brand presence on Aruba – including five properties, 1170 units, casino, shopping bazaar, golf course and the most beachfront footage of any operator in Aruba, made improvements to entice an even greater share of the island’s annual 1.5 million tourists. The casino and retail complex is in the last stage of a dramatic modernization and expansion, and now includes a 4000 square foot ballroom aimed at the meetings and conventions sector. The company also set its sights on locals. “We’ve designed our casino and shopping mall to be a premium and repeat destination for residents and visitors alike,” says Schanfarber.

The Alhambra Casino is expanding with more than 100 additional slot machines and 30 percent more floor area to become the largest casino in the Druif Beach area. The adjoining Shops at Alhambra will likewise be the area’s biggest shopping draw when it opens in February. Ninety percent of the tenants are new, selected to provide more varied diversions, from souvenirs and high fashion apparel to a cigar and wine jazz bar and multiple dining establishments. One hundred fifty new parking spaces are ready for the expected increase in visitors.

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Welk Mountain Springs

“Our commitment to excellence is seen in everything we do at our resorts, beginning with the design and amenities to delivering the best service to our owners,” said Jon Fredricks, president of Welk Resort Group. “Renewing our partnership with Interval ensures that we will also be able to continue providing industry-leading programs and benefits to members, including the opportunity to exchange their vacations through Interval’s renowned resort network to some of the most highly demanded destinations around the world.”

“We’ve greatly enjoyed working with Jon and the Welk team, who are among the most respected professionals in the shared ownership industry,” added Craig M. Nash, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Interval Leisure Group. “We’re very proud to enhance our relationship and offer our members many more years of exceptional experiences at the outstanding Welk locations.”

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The resort carries the first LaTour Signature Group private label, reserved for five-star properties and highlighting the pillars of the LaTour Signature experience: culinary, wine, wellness, entertainment and concierge.

“This oceanfront resort and private residence club was designed to carry the LaTour Signature brand and benefits immensely from the exclusive experience of veteran hotelier Tom LaTour,” said Sean Zimmerman, founding partner of SIA Living, the property’s sales and marketing partner. “Celeste will be the finest resort in the region.”

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“This is a rich man’s vacation on a normal man’s salary,” says Ron Riley, CLUB WYNDHAM® owner since 1998 in describing why he enjoys vacationing with timeshare. In addition to Riley and his wife, more than a dozen owners participated in the video. Other owners will share their experiences in a blog in order to clearly convey the variety of reasons they cherish their vacation ownership.

One family, CLUB WYNDHAM owners Sharon and Tom Grupe of Orlando, Fla., recently celebrated Thanksgiving at the Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort with 38 family members spanning four generations. “I still get emotional when I think about the special celebration we had this past Thanksgiving”, explains Sharon. “Being able to bring everyone together in such a beautiful and accommodating resort made it a holiday to remember.”

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“RCI Platinum is a premium-tier membership option that opens up a world of vacation opportunities for our members,” said Gordon Gurnik, president, RCI. “Since its debut last year, the RCI Platinum membership has been met with positive responses from members who notice that their vacation experiences have been taken to a whole new level, which adds value to the products that affiliates like Divi Resorts offer vacationers.”

RCI members who join the RCI Points Platinum membership tier receive benefits including:

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“This is a great and important step for us and our owners,” said Pegasus Star Ltda. Chief Executive Officer David Matluck, whose company is developing the 665-acre master planned gated community, located between Quepos and Dominical on the Costanera Highway. “This alliance allows Hacienda Matapalo to be developed and actually built. We are going vertical with an experienced development team, which in Costa Rica is not an easy thing to do.”

Island Resorts Trust, a cutting edge developer, utilizes the latest green technology and has successfully developed more than $500 million in high end large scale projects including Jupiter Harbour in Jupiter, FL,, The Beachfront at Juno in Juno Beach, FL and The Waterfront at Juno in Juno Beach, FL.

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While Bluegreen Wilderness Club is decidedly focused on rustic luxury, with 18 Concierge and Presidential villas, slate and hardwood floors, flat-screen TVs, exquisite fireplaces, stainless steel appliances and soft, comfortable and inviting furniture and bedding; it is also diligent about remaining energy conscious and eco-friendly.

Bluegreen Wilderness Club is also diligent about the following:

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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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