athoc

Luxury Broadbeach Resort joins the Holiday Club

Posted on April 30, 2012 by ATHOC

The stylish Freshwater Point resort in Broadbeach is now under new management after being bought from the Piccone group in December.

This property is located in the Casino and Convention centre precinct of Broadbeach and a short walk to the beach, Casino, The Oasis Shopping Centre, Broadbeach Mall and all that the Gold Coast’s most popular suburb offers.

The Holiday Club Group will now operate the resort as a part of its expanding management rights business in Australia.

The resort has more than 100 rooms in the letting pool comprising a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments. Guest facilities include heated outdoor pool, Children’s wading pool, spa, sauna & steam room, fully equipped guest gymnasium, electric BBQs, fishing jetty, licensed pool side café, meeting/function rooms, Mezzanine lounge and secure under cover car parking.

Holiday Club Group has already made an impact on the long term residents and holiday makers with improvements to some services on the property such as café operating hours and operation, new on-site management team and improved focus on online sales through all website channels.

“We have gone from being one property in a large group to being the second of the small Broadbeach portfolio of management right buildings operated by the Holiday Club, alongside the stylish Air on Broadbeach Resort,” said Mark Henry, managing director of The Holiday Club.

“Most staff members have stayed with us since the changeover and they have been excited by the changes and potential for improvement in guest experience”

Mr. Henry said the operations had taken on a more corporate hotel approach with changes designed for the business traveller and conferencing guest.

“However, this has not been at the cost of the leisure traveller as we still have all the existing services and facilities that they have come to enjoy”.

The Holiday Club plan is to continue to improve the marketing approach, maintain existing wholesale business, and also to improve website sales and presence.

“We are hoping to enhance the guest experience for both our leisure and corporate travellers,” said Mr. Henry.

The Holiday Club will continue to focus on growth, Mr. Henry says they plan to acquire other properties throughout Queensland that fit with their clientele and provide value for money stays for Club members.

Freshwater Hotel, Broadbeach

Posted in 2012 Enews - 05/12, Australian Timeshare Industry, Homegrown, News | Leave a comment

Club Seychelles joins Preferred Residences

Posted on April 27, 2012 by ATHOC

Preferred Residences®, a hospitality branded membership and exchange program for luxury shared ownership resorts offered by an operating business of Interval Leisure Group (Nasdaq: IILG), announced the affiliation of Club Seychelles on the island of Anguilla in the British West Indies. Currently under construction, the property will feature fractional and whole-ownership residences situated on Meads Bay Beach.

“In line with the high-quality standards of Preferred Residences’ member resorts, Club Seychelles will combine a prime beachfront location with spacious accommodations and impeccable service,” said David Gilbert, executive vice president of resort sales and marketing for Preferred Residences. “Owners and exchange guests will be able to relax in residences that offer every comfort and convenience essential for a first-class vacation experience.”

The Mediterranean-style project will be built in three phases, with the first slated for completion in early 2013. When finished, it will include beautifully appointed one-, two-, and four-bedroom residences ranging in size from 870 to 4,900 square feet. Each will feature elegant interiors with vaulted ceilings, crown moldings, travertine floors, designer furnishings and lighting, and high-end electronics and entertainment systems. Gourmet kitchens have been designed with granite and marble countertops, Italian cabinetry, and top-of-the-line Miele and Wolf appliances. Bathrooms will have marble vanities with double sinks, Kohler tubs and fixtures, designer wall sconces, and in-mirror television.

“Club Seychelles will be an exclusive resort that is well suited for Preferred Residences. The caliber of its network and the valuable leisure benefits and services our owners will enjoy were instrumental in our decision to affiliate the property,” said E. Valentin Davis, president of Tibullus Limited, developer of the resort. “We also look forward to meeting the expectations of the discerning guests who stay with us.”

A wide array of on-site and nearby amenities is planned, including restaurants and bars, state-of-the art health club, adult and children’s swimming pools with poolside service, two hot tubs, clay tennis court, and recreation pavilion.

Among the personalized services that are available at the resort are assistance with travel arrangements, pre-arrival grocery stocking, en-suite spa treatments, in-residence master chef, twice-daily housekeeping, in-house nanny, and private butler. A dedicated concierge will arrange everything from tee times at CuisinArt Golf Course, boat rentals, diving and fishing excursions to dinner reservations.

Beyond the sales and marketing opportunities for developers, Preferred Residences offers owners “high-touch” exchange services and year-round leisure and lifestyle benefits tailored especially for sophisticated, affluent travellers. These include preferential pricing at participating Preferred Hotel Group™ affiliated properties worldwide, complimentary Prestige membership in Priority Pass™ airport VIP lounge program, personal concierge services accessible 24/7 online and via phone, complimentary annual membership in Hertz #1 Club Gold®, and automatic enrollment in a two-year membership in Preferred Golf™, providing access to the world’s most challenging and prestigious courses.

Posted in Around the World, Interval International | Leave a comment

Eric Danziger outlines the future of Wyndham Hotel Group

Posted on April 20, 2012 by ATHOC

It’s been a big year for Wyndham Hotel Group, and president and CEO Eric Danziger is excited at the company’s global growth prospects. Perhaps the biggest piece of news detailed at the 2012 Wyndham Hotel Group Global Conference at MandalayBaywas the rebranding of Microtel Inns & Suites to more broadly include its presence in Wyndham’s brand portfolio.

“In the case of Microtel, it was the right thing to do,” said Danziger. “In all reality, there’s never been a brand that didn’t start out being all new build; they do change. The last couple years were a little bit slow so we have even created some incentives to help people build Microtels. We’ll help ensure the person the ability to get financed and have offered some bank assistance.”

Danziger also addressed Wyndham’s uncharacteristic ownership of the Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek, couching the move in terms of grand strategy. “In terms of Bonnet Creek, I don’t think its right to say it’s a change for us,” said Danziger. “We don’t want to be owners of real estate and we won’t be. Thats not to say there will not be the occasional product that make sense for us.”

Development will remain Wyndham’s bread and butter expansion strategy, however, and the company has even begun working with owners and developers to help get new projects off the ground. “We’ve gone into this year in an aggressive development mode for Wyndham, which may mean we make operational guarantees or loans,” said Danziger. “For the right hotel, we’re going to find a solution. For Bonnet Creek, it’s part mixed-use with 1,000 vacation ownership units. We were happy to complete the deal but I don’t know how long we’ll own it because someone will want to buy it. Then maybe we can use that capital. It is not a strategic shift to be in the ownership business.”

Danziger is especially excited about Wyndham’s development pipeline outside the United States, where most new-build development has ceased. “Forty-five percent of the company’s pipeline is international, especially in places like China, India and Panama,” said Danziger. “Outside the States is very active, and Canada is very active particulary with our Days Inn brand.”

Another bold move for Wyndham in 2010 was its licensing agreement to manage the the Planet Hollywood brand abroad and conversion to a global lifestyle resort brand. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Planet Hollywood internationally,” said Danziger. “We’ve spent a long time working on what it should be, maybe longer than I thought. The challenge is that we wanted to be sure we created a brand that’s not just attractive to the leisure market. The fear is, how do you create a brand that’s all entertainment and communicate that the brand is ok for a corporate group? We went to about 80 key customerss and asked what would stop them from using the hotel.”

Wyndham will continue to aggressively improve its existing product without moving away from what has worked for guests, owners and franchisees in the past. “We were a very innovative company and people confuse innovation with invention,” said Danziger. “It is an innovation that we all have iPhones; it is not an invention, the telephone was invented a long time ago. I hope we know what a consumer wants and find a more efficient way to get them what they want.”

Posted in Around the World, Wyndham News | Leave a comment

RCI Recognised As One Of The Best Places To Work In Mexico For Sixth Consecutive Year

Posted on April 20, 2012 by ATHOC

RCI, was recognized for the sixth consecutive year by the Great Place to Work® Institute as one of the Best Places to Work in Mexico.

This recognition is based on a five-part framework of employee satisfaction: credibility, respect, fairness, pride and companionship. Results are obtained through surveys given to a representative group of the company’s employees.

For the past six years, RCI® has ranked on the list of the Best Places to Work in Mexico. This award recognizes RCI’s efforts to foster participation, motivation and a feeling of belonging among its associates. RCI has also been recognized as one of the Best Companies to Work For in the Gender Equality category. 

“Being recognized as one of the Best Places to Work for the sixth consecutive year motivates us to continue working and improving year after year,” said Ricardo Montaudon, president and executive director, RCI Latin America. “Every day, we implement policies, programs and strategies that favor an excellent work environment, therefore providing our collaborators with the opportunity to develop fully as human beings.”

At RCI, people are the company’s most important asset, which is why RCI has developed various efforts to create an excellent work environment that consistently encourages trust, communication, equality, ethics and professionalism.

Posted in Around the World, RCI News | Leave a comment

Interval International Honored with Prestigious Community Service Award for Member-Driven Initiative

Posted on April 20, 2012 by ATHOC

Interval International, received the Circle of Excellence ACE Community Service Award, one of the American Resort Development Association’s (ARDA) most prestigious honors, for its “Year of Giving” program. The annual ACE Awards identify recipients who reach the highest levels of excellence in the resort industry or who have demonstrated a commitment to the betterment of the industry as a whole. The ceremony was held at the recent convention gala in Las Vegas.

Being a good corporate citizen and supporting the community has been an integral part of the company’s culture. The “Year of Giving” program was developed in collaboration with Interval member Deborah Powers-Holloway, co-founder of the non-profit Steel Magnolias Ministries/Operation Any Soldier, which creates customized care packages for deployed and wounded soldiers. As a result of the partnership with Interval, its mission has been expanded to include donations of seven-day vacations to active and retired military personnel, as well as wounded warriors.

“The Community Service recognition for this particular endeavor is especially meaningful,” said Jeanette Marbert, Interval International’s chief operating officer. “We feel privileged that Interval and our member resorts are able to give back in a small way to the military families who have given more than most of us can even imagine.”

Interval also received ARDY awards for excellence in the advertising, promotion, and communication division for several of its marketing efforts: the Interval Gold® welcome kit, the Interval PlatinumSM sales center poster collection, and the “Everything Must Go Sale” magazine advertisement.

Another convention highlight was the Party With A Cause, an annual concert that benefits the non-profit ARDA International Foundation (AIF) and its research and education efforts. This year’s headliners were The Beach Boys, who entertained a full house of industry professionals with their iconic music. Sponsored by Interval, the Party With A Cause has contributed more than $300,000 to AIF since it became a fundraiser in 2003. Among the other event sponsors were Marriott Vacations Worldwide, Starwood Vacation Ownership, Bank of America, and Hertz at the platinum level; Amadeus and Travel Guard at the gold level; and Trooval and Equiant at the silver level.

Posted in Around the World, Interval International | Leave a comment

RCI Commends Passage of Timeshare Resale Accountability Act in Florida

Posted on April 20, 2012 by ATHOC

RCI, today praised the signing of the Timeshare Resale Accountability Act by Florida Governor Rick Scott. This new law takes action against fraudulent timeshare resale companies.

“The passage of this law is a significant step in cutting down on fraudulent companies taking advantage of innocent consumers,” said Gordon Gurnik, president, RCI. “We fully support this new law, and applaud all those who led the crack down on deceptive business practices, including Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, Governor Rick Scott, Sen. Andy Gardiner and Rep. Eric Eisnaugle.”

The Timeshare Resale Accountability Act helps protectFloridaconsumers by working to put an end to deceptive marketing practices used by fraudulent timeshare resale companies. These types of companies have been targeting consumers by offering to help sell their timeshare ownership.

Under this law, timeshare resale companies must disclose all the terms and conditions of their business relationship with a consumer as well as require that such companies provide for a reasonable right of rescission, with penalties for those resale companies that fail to comply. The bill will become effective July 1, 2012.

This law is largely supported by the timeshare and exchange industries, including the American Resort Development Association.

Posted in Around the World, RCI News | Leave a comment

Inaugural Accor Hotel Awards Night

Posted on April 11, 2012 by ATHOC

Accor held its inaugural Accor Hotel Awards night at the Pullman Sydney Olympic Park to recognise and celebrate outstanding individual and hotel performance throughout the past year. We are pleased to announce the Accor Vacation Club winners:

Build Smiles Award is a prestigious award recognising outstanding employees in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, to acknowledge, encourage and appreciate the significant value these individuals contribute to our company and our community.

Representing Accor Vacation Club was Judith Szafranski, Food & Beverage Attendant, Grand Mercure Basildene Manor, WA. We are pleased to announce that Judith was awarded the ‘I Build Smiles’ 2011 Runner Up and won return flights for two within Australia and 5 nights’ accommodation in her chosen city.

Judith has been working at the Grand Basildene Manor for over 6 years and is a great ambassador.

Accor Vacation Club Awards:

  • Accor Vacation Club Resort of the Year – Grand Mercure Melbourne Accor Vacation Club Apartments, VIC
  • Accor Vacation Club Performer of the Year – Richard Jones, Financial Controller, Robina office.
  • Accor Vacation Club Special Contribution Award – Call Centre team, Robina office.

Photo (L to R): Sandy Crothers – General Manager Grand Mercure Melbourne, Craig Wood – CEO, Richard Jones – Financial Controller, Mitchell Lane – Call Centre Manager, Judith Szafranski – Grand Mercure Basildene Manor.

Posted in 2012 Enews - 04/12, Accor Vacation Club News, Australian Timeshare Industry, Homegrown | Leave a comment

Refurbishment program at Tiki Village International Resort now complete

Posted on April 4, 2012 by ATHOC

February 2012 marked the final stage in a comprehensive refurbishment program at Tiki Village International Resort, located in the heart of Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast.

In 2006 Tiki’s Board of Directors and owners opted to take a staged approach whereby a modest  extra contribution was paid each year to fund the refurbishment of smaller groups of units, rather than the entire resort at once.

“Our resort refurbishment programs underpin Classic’s commitment to continual improvement to ensure our apartments stay modern and fresh. We must remain competitive, particularly on the Gold Coast where holiday accommodation is plentiful’ said Denise Price, Resort Operations Manager for Classic Holidays.

“Tiki’s units are where guests will see the greatest benefit with new carpets, whitegoods, flat screen TVs, blinds, artwork, along with a complete repaint.  The units have a modern contemporary feel and we are thrilled to show them off to our owners and guests” said Denise.

In common areas a revamp of the Reception area saw the end of the 1980s salmon-pink reception desk and outdated décor, replaced with modern colours and a slick design and new ceiling in the foyer.

The inviting new look was completed with a restructure of the front gardens, new pavers and ceilings to the forecourt area and waiting bay.

“We predominantly used the same local contractors, including some who were involved in the first refurbishment back in 1994, as well as our very talented maintenance team!

“Wifi was installed throughout the resort so guests can get internet access in the comfort of their units, by the pool, or wherever they choose” concluded Denise.

Posted in 2012 Enews - 04/12, Australian Timeshare Industry, Classic Holidays News, Homegrown, News, Timeshare Hotel Refurbishments | Leave a comment

Wyndham Receives RCI President’s Club Award

Posted on April 4, 2012 by ATHOC

Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific was recently honoured with the RCI President’s Club Award which was presented to Barry Robinson, CEO and Managing Director.

The award is given to RCI’s affiliates that are the top performing organisations in their industry. A select few are chosen each year from thousands of affiliates, based on exceptional performance.

Barry was presented with the award from Charisse Cox, Managing Director RCI Pacific (pictured).

Posted in 2012 Enews - 04/12, Australian Timeshare Industry, Homegrown, News, Wyndham News | Leave a comment

Wyndham Worldwide Number One in Top 100 List

Posted on April 4, 2012 by ATHOC

Wyndham Worldwide, the parent company of Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific has been ranked number one in the hospitality industry on FORTUNE Magazine’s “World’s Most Admired” list.

This ranking is proof of the company’s positive reputation in the community and reinforces that Wyndham is a strong and reputable organisation worldwide.

The “Most Admired Companies” annual ranking is based on surveys of top executives, directors and industry analysts who evaluate companies on nine criteria, from investment value to social responsibility.

Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific, located in Bundall on the Gold Coast, is a division of Wyndham Worldwide and currently employees about 1300 employees across Australia, New Zealand and Fiji.

The list appears in FORTUNE’s March 5 issue and can also be viewed online at fortune.com.

Posted in 2012 Enews - 04/12, Australian Timeshare Industry, Homegrown, News, Wyndham News | Leave a comment