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CHINA’S TOURISM ANALYSIS RCI Champions 2012 Winners AOCAP 2012 CONFERENCE Working together to provide dream vacations Working together to provide dream vacations THE BUSINESS OF VACATION APRIL 2013 HONG KONG Ventures
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  • CHINAS TOURISM ANALYSIS RCI Champions 2012 Winners AOCAP 2012 CONFERENCE

    Working together to provide dream vacationsWorking together to provide dream vacations

    THE BUSINESS OF VACATIONAPRIL 2013

    HONG KONG

    Ventures

  • CONTENTS

    04 rCi prOduCTS - rCi products help you succeed

    08 GLOBAL NEWS: - Vacation Ownership Analysis

    - Seminar on Sustainable development of the Chinese Vacation Ownership industry in Yantai, Shandong

    13 EVENTS - Meeting with Beijing Administration for industry and Commerce

    - rCi Ambassador Award

    - rCi 2013 resort recognition program

    - AOCAp 2012 Conference

    22 rCi.COM - rCi unveils Chinese Language Website

    Ventures is published by rCi Asia pacific pte Ltd. project director: Vincent LeeAdaptation & design: Flava design LLp

    No part of this magazine maybe reproduced without written permission from rCi. Ventures publish opinions of many experts. These opinions are not a substitute for legal, accounting or other professional advice.The views and conclusions expressed in Ventures are those of the authors and are not necessarily those of rCi nor of its parent or affiliates. The information contained in this publication has been obtained from sources the proprietors believe to be correct. However, no legal liability can be accepted for any errors.

    2013 rCi Asia pacific pte Ltd. All rights reserved. printed in Singapore.

    24 WHATS NEW - rCi + Me Travel Memories

    - rCi Handbook inside Guide

    - e-Endless Vacation Magazine

    - rCi New Member Welcome Kit

    28 rCi MAp

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  • rCi prOduCT

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  • rCi prOduCT

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  • rCi prOduCT

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  • rCi prOduCT

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  • The Vacation Ownership concept originated in the French Alps in Europe in the 1960s. in 1976 resort hotels in the French Alps were the first to introduce the formal model for Vacation Ownership and sold the usage rights for a certain time intervals. in uS, Vacation Ownership was first adopted in the mid-1970s. Since then, Vacation Ownership has evolved into a global industry.

    Vacation Ownership involves the developer or owner of a lodging property, such as a hotel, purpose built Vacation Ownership resort or a resort villa, dividing the right of usage of each unit into 52 equal time intervals (weeks). One week is typically set aside for maintenance works and the other 51 weeks are sold to individual buyers. Whilst the individual buyers do not acquire ownership of the property, they obtain the right to inhabit the property for a week every year, to transfer such right through a sale, donation or inheritance, and to use the amenities of the property at a preferential rate for a specified period of time (typically between 20 and 40 years). in addition, buyers can go through a global exchange network to offer their right of stay at their original property to other owners of Vacation Ownership units in exchange for a stay at their other properties featured in the exchange network. These companies offer usage exchange services to Vacation Ownership consumers (or members) at an annual membership fee and a service charge

    for each transaction. Furthermore, when purchasing a Vacation Ownership product, buyers can obtain financing from the developer/owner or a third party.

    indeed developers create purpose-built Vacation Ownership products, or in certain cases, hybrid or mixed use products that include traditional hotel guestrooms and Vacation Ownership units. Buyers can acquire from developers the usage right for a certain timeframe of a Vacation Ownership unit for a one-off payment and become a Vacation Ownership owner of the unit. Through the sale of Vacation Ownership, developers can recoup part or all of their investment at an early stage of development. Some developers opt to develop Vacation Ownership properties next to a hotel and allow for shared facilities services and operational efficiency.

    According to the latest data from the Worldwide Shared Vacation Ownership report produced by Oxford Economics and The research intelligence Group, sales volume of shared vacation ownership, inclusive of traditional Vacation Ownership, fractional and private residence Club prC products, upgrades and trial membership products, in 2010 totalled uSd14 billion. There were approximately 774,000 intervals sold at an average price of uSd18,070. it is projected that 15 million nights were rented at an average nightly rate of uSd148, resulting in over

    uSd118 billion in revenue being generated by the industry. Also customer satisfaction across different segments of the uS Vacation Ownership industry, reached 86.7%, second only to luxury hotels and ahead of mid and upscale hotels and casinos.

    Vacation Ownership commonly has the following benefits include:

    (1) in terms of earnings streams within the Vacation Ownership industry, there is the development profit earned from a successful project (net of product and related sales, marketing and administrative costs); revenue earned by management companies for the management services to a Vacation Ownership resort (typically an on-cost of between 10-20% of the actual operating budget); commercial revenues derived from food and beverage services; pay as you use facilities such as golf, spa, tennis etc and the profits derived from consumer financing provided to Vacation Ownership purchasers either in the form of commissions generated from a third party specialist lender or through the arbitrage earned by the developer as between his own cost of funds and the interest rate at which he lends money to his customer..

    (2) Vacation Ownership also has potentially higher occupancy rates than hotels. The average occupancy rate for Vacation Ownership properties (including sold out resorts) in the uSA was 79% (out of which comprising 65% were owners or exchange

    VACATION OWNERSHIP ANALYSiS

    Tourism is one of the largest industries in the world and plays an important role in the global economy. Chinas tourism industry is full of opportunities. The transformation of economic development patterns is the Chinese governments top priority for the next

    five years. The central government has developed a series of strategies and action plans to promote tourism.

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  • guests and 13% who were renters and/or marketing guests). Approximately, 53%of resorts are at least eighty percent occupied and 24% have occupancy of at least ninety percent. 15% of resorts are less than 60% occupied. indeed, occupancy levels are similar across the resort size categories. By comparison, hotel occupancy was 58% in 2010. Vacation ownership products are particularly relevant in hotels with seasonal swings in occupancy and Vacation Ownership can help balance the supply of rooms for holiday villages/hotels.

    (3) Vacation Ownership also benefits the local economy. due to the nature of the Vacation Ownership, Vacation Ownership owners tend to stay at the resort for longer periods than other travelers and group customers, and often the purchasers will revisit the hotel/Vacation Ownership resort. This in turn helps to stimulate the local tourism economy bringing benefits such as employment, tax revenues and discretionary spending on food and beverage and local goods.

    (4) Vacation Ownership resorts build requirements must be conducted in accordance with local planning and building regulations which place an emphasis on safety, quality, design and also factor in environmental laws to ensure that, for instance, the materials used in the construction of the resort are consistent with local legislation. For instance, the use of asbestos is prohibited.

    increasingly, environmental awareness and consumer demand is playing an important role in influencing developers to design and construct environmentally friendly resorts. There are no uniform standards for Vacation Ownership resorts in terms of size and configuration. Vacation Ownership units are designed to be flexible, and are often larger and better equipped than traditional hotel rooms home from home - and it is important to consider the type of consumer and their expectations based on the location. Another key determining factor for the Vacation Ownership units depends on the location of the property (e.g. urban or resort style) and the expectation of demand from purchasers. For example, if the location is a family destination then the resort would include a greater number of family sized units in the mix of rooms. if it is an urban/city location, where one would expect mainly couples, a higher percentage of studio rooms and 1 bedroom apartments would be offered. Another feature of Wyndham Vacation Ownership developments is to include high end rooms that may be classed as penthouse or presidential which have more exclusive

    fittings than a standard room. A further example could be that an owner of an existing hotel may want to sell down part of the asset; a convenient way to do this may be via a Vacation Ownership model where a portion of the existing units are converted to Vacation Ownership units thus creating a mixed use property.

    developers wishing to move into the Vacation Ownership industry are advised to consider the following points as raised in the Jones Lang La Salle report entitled What are the Opportunities for Vacation Ownership in China?:

    Locationremainsthemostimportantselling point for Vacation Ownership. Most Vacation Ownership properties are located in resort destinations or locations featuring good tourist sites such as central locations in gateway cities.

    Roomtype,configurationandpropertyamenities are important considerations for consumers when they make Vacation Ownership purchase decisions. Considering users are likely to stay at the Vacation Ownership property for an extended period of time, usually one week as assigned in their Vacation Ownership allotment, properties

    that offer extensive on-site facilities and amenities, for instance, are generally appealing in resort destinations.

    High quality, consistent maintenance and management services and flexible exchange programs are important factors to increase the products attractiveness. Further the availability of a wide-selection of properties which consumers can trade for locations has been identified as an important selection factor. developers should take into these factors of self-manage or when selecting an operator.

    Today, China has one of the worlds largest domestic tourism markets and an outbound tourism market growing at a rate unequalled anywhere. Vacation Ownership offers a new and unique product within the tourism product chain, and is consistent with the Chinese governments direction to bring innovation and diversity to the tourism industry. development of Vacation Ownership products goes far beyond the development of a physical product. Sustainable development in the Vacation Ownership industry will stimulate tourism consumption and enable residential properties to earn revenues from actual utilization. Through integrating with Chinese characteristics Vacation Ownership has a role to play to promote the local and national economic development.

    GLOBAL NEWS

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  • Seminar on the sustainable development of Chinese Vacation ownership industry held in Yantai, ShandongOn Jan. 21, 2013, the Seminar on the Sustainable Development of the Chinese Vacation Ownership Industry which was hosted by RCI and sponsored by Shanghai Runner International Vacation Club, was held at five-star Yantai Ramada Plaza Hotel. More than 50 people were invited to the meeting, including Zhuang Keqiang, deputy director of the Yantai Tourism Bureau, Adrian Lee, RCIs Managing Director for the Asia-Pacific region, Sun Zhenyi, Board Chairman of Shandong Yitai Group --- an investor of Shanghai Runner, representatives of Shanghai Runners Vendors in China, and representatives from the Chinese media.

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  • Vacation ownership exchange, a recreational means widely adopted by foreigners, has become more popular in China in the recent years. Tourism basically consists of three stages: Sightseeing, Vacation and Expedition, sightseeing being the most common among them. As international exchange has become intensified and pursuing quality life has increased steadily, many middle class people and even those with low and medium income have taken a liking to recreational Vacation.

    The vacation experiences provides the chance for the whole family to get together to relax themselves and travel in a leisurely way. However, this cannot go without an arbitrary and well-made travel plan, cheap and good air ticket, good services including airport pickup, good guide, car rental, meal, shopping adviser and advisory service of tourism visa. All the things mentioned above can hardly be realized through the operation system of the current Chinese tourism companies.

    in recent years, more tourism real estates themed recreational Vacation and Vacation ownership of small proprietors have appeared in China. Some well-established real estate companies have started to venture into the Vacation ownership industry however they fall far short of international standards. Vacation ownership exchange can only be carried out

    among several domestic destinations and the operational mode are unable to meet the international industry standard because significant gap still exists in terms of scale, grade and ability to satisfy customers needs. Therefore, it is imperative to introduce the service of Vacation ownership which has been internationally adopted and is on a larger scale.

    At present, the worlds largest association for Vacation ownership is rCi, a company under Wyndham Worldwide. An international service giant, rCi has over 4,000 affiliated resorts and nearly 3.8 million members. Eight out of the ten Vacation ownership exchanges in the whole world are carried out via rCi. in recent years, rCi has shifted its focus on the Chinese market and intensified its development in this area. At present, both its scale and service can easily satisfy Chinese members demand for international Vacation ownership exchange. Furthermore, its Chinese partner, Shanghai runner international Vacation Club, can offer other supporting services. As their member, they will have the opportunity to experience the quality service provided by over 4,000 global resorts so long as they can choose a proper time and book their holiday in advance.

    For many years, Vacation ownership or the former so-called timeshare industry has had

    a poor reputation in China. This is mainly due to the reasons that proper credit mechanism has not been set up and industry standards not clearly defined. Thus this provided a loophole for the swindlers to act whenever a new industry appeared, which in the long run caused the creditability and reputation of the industry. To add on to that, the Chinese have the mentality to play their game as they deem fit and not to abide by the rule most of the time. A classic example is a joke about Li Hongzhang, a senior official of Qing dynasty. He sent a group of acrobat to take part in an international basketball game and none of the player abides by the rule. upon losing, they blame it on their rivals instead. One should abide by the rule of the game and this applies to that of booking an ownership vacation exchange. For example, one should make plan and book ownership exchange in advance for their trip and not expecting that they will be able to get their choice of their resort if they do it at the last moment. issue with visa application is another problem which might restrict members from making successful ownership exchanges.

    However, with the immensely growth with the China economy, it is apparent that the Chinese will be able to travel to more countries with less visa restriction. This in term will enable and expose them to know

    GLOBAL NEWS

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  • and understand more about the ownership vacation and thus enable the industry to expand. By and large, the fear of the mention of the Vacation ownership will then be a thing of the past.

    in the preliminary period of the Vacation ownership industry growth in China, Shanghai runner Hotel Management Co., Ltd. Which is under Yantai ramada plaza Hotel, has taken the leading position among many service enterprises. As early as 2009, it has become a member of rCi. in the recent years, it has absorbed thousands of members and moved its main office and set up Shanghai runner international Member Club in Shanghai.

    it invested Vacation hotel in Xishuangbanna and Lijiang which are the first Vacation hotels that are name as member hotel. in order to promote this emerging industry, it has established a healthy sales network in cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shijiazhuang, Shenyang, Jinan and Qingdao. Yet this industry is still at the initial stage in China and there are still more problems to be solve: How to develop this industry rapidly? How to solve the problems in the course of its development, including how to rapidly enhance its low social awareness among some government officials, especially in the area of member sales and service more regulated and agree with the living habit of Chinese people.

    This seminar, which was sponsored jointly by rCi and Shanghai runner in Yantai, Shandong, is aimed to promote the healthy development of this industry as well as look for the prescriptions for the benign development of member clubs,

    sales units and member service providers. An Qi, the general manager of Shanghai runner Hotel Management Co Ltd. said that the strategic aim for the long termed development of the company is to promote and serve Vacation ownership. in order to help more people understand the difference between recreational Vacation and sightseeing, Shanghai runner is determined to work together with relevant organizations both at home and abroad to actively build a group of Vacation hotels. These hotels will be operated in accordance with international standard. in addition, they will have advanced services and facilities, and Chinese characteristics. For example, Yantai ramada plaza Hotel and Xishuangbanna runner international Member Hotel have started their business and hotels which are ready for the opening: Haiyang Best Occidental Spa Seaside Hotel, Zhangjiajie Western Hotel, Lijiang runner Exquisite Member Hotel and Shangri-La runner Exquisite Member Hotel. Together with rCis 4,700 Vacation hotels, these advanced hotels offer Vacation ownership exchanges for the members, which may free them from the worries of the risks as well as give them more opportunities to enjoy their Vacations at home or abroad.

    At the seminar, Zhuang Keqiang, deputy director of Yantai Tourism Bureau, had an interview with Mr. Adrian Lee, rCis managing director for Asia-pacific region, and An Qi, General Manager of Shanghai runner Hotel Management Co Ltd. about the development of international Vacation ownership industry in Yantai, interaction

    between tourism real estates and Vacation ownership, and the investment and development of Vacation hotels Mr. Adrian Lee said that Chinas economy has increased rapidly in recent years. in addition, the income of the Chinese people is increasing steadily. Apart from the sightseeing taking the form of travel group, more and more Chinese people adopted the free and easy Vacation concept. Holding an optimistic view about the Chinese market, uS rCi invested uSd 5 million in launching a fully-transactional website in simplified Chinese for their members, www.rci.com. Chinese members will no longer be troubled by language obstacles and can realize online exchange of Vacation ownership themselves. This platform for the exchange of Vacation ownership was originated by rCi. rCi is determined to further increase its investment in the Chinese market in 2013 so as to provide a quality exchange platform for Chinese peoples recreational Vacation and try its best to make it become a recreational Vacation industry widely accepted by the public as soon as possible.

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  • RCIs Ambassador Award

    Mr Ferry Sutedja of Bali Masari dr Liliana Kurniawan of Bali Masari

    Meeting with China Tourism Association (CTA)

    Meeting with Beijing Administration for Industry and Commerce

    EVENTS

    The rCi Team (Mr. Gavin Cheong, Business development director. Mr. Wong Teck Kow, Senior Counsel. Ms. Shirley Meng, Account Manager) met with Mr. Jiang Qi Kang (Vice Secretary General of China Tourism Association)on the 20th February 2013 to discuss how rCi can strengthen its presence in China by assisting hotel and resort developers and introducing Vacation Ownership. Mr. Jiang gave some recommendations to guide the growth of the industry, as well as rCi China.

    The rCi team (Mr. Gavin Cheong, Business development director. Mr. Wong Teck Kow, Senior Counsel. Ms. Shirley Meng, Account Manager) met with Mr Cao Zhong Sheng (director of division for Consumer protection department, Beijing Administration for industry and Commerce) on 21st February 2013 to discuss how rCi and the China Vacation Ownership Alliance can assist in enhancing consumer protection in Beijing. Mr Cao appreciated rCis efforts in taking the lead to actively engage the public.

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  • Mr. rizvi Bin ramli iconic Vacation Club(Malaysia)

    Mr. Gao Hao Kai Freedom Vacation Club (China)

    Mr. Mohamed Sirajuddinpalace Vacation Club (Malaysia)

    Ms. Chen Fu Huanmei international Vacation Club (China)

    Ms. prapaporn Songanok Laguna Holiday Club (Thailand)

    Mr. Xin Tie Nan Shanghai runner international Vacation Club (China)

    EVENTS

    The rCi Champions Award was developed to recognize the outstanding achievements of rCi Affiliated resort staff for their effort to grow the vacation ownership industry in Asia: China, indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam and the philippines.

    We would like to congratulate to all our winners from the Top Sales performers Category, Exceptional Customer Service Category, Outstanding Customer Service Category and the Top Telemarketer Category. Keep it up!

    Annual Top Sales PerformersCountry Affiliate WinnerIndonesia Regent Vacation Club Meity Andara

    Indonesia Royal Resorts, Karma Royal Group Suraj Naik

    Malaysia Iconic Vacation Club Rizvi Bin Ramli

    Malaysia Palace Vacation Club Mohamed Sirajuddin

    Philippines Club Astoria Bob Marasigan

    Philippines Club Astoria Jun Aldovino

    Philippines One Tayatay Place Ruel Dela Cueva

    Thailand Laguna Holiday Club Prapaporn Songanok (Dae)

    Thailand Anantara Vacation Club Sheila Chung

    Thailand Anantara Vacation Club Christy Lee

    Vietnam Ninh Van Bay Holiday Club Van Thi Thu Ha

    China Freedom Vacation Club Gao Hao Kai

    China Huanmei International Vacation Club Chen Fu

    2012Annual Top

    Sales Performers

    Ms. Meity Andara regent Vacation Club (indonesia)

    Mr. Suraj Naik royal resorts, Karma royal Group (indonesia)

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  • Mr. Mohd Fauzi Kamaruddin iconic Vacation Club(Malaysia)

    Ms. Zhang Jin pin iconic Vacation Club (China)

    Mr. Guo Jun Huanmei international Vacation Club (China)

    Mr. Zhu Zhen QingFreedom Vacation Club (China)

    Ms. Yusdiani pVB Group Ltd (indonesia)

    Ms. Ni Luh Widya Capri Comiati royal resort, Karma royal Group (indonesia)

    Mr. Chen Fu Tao Shanghai runner international Vacation Club (China)

    Mr. Jiraporn Wannasriyapong Laguna Holiday Club (Thailand)

    Exceptional Customer Service Award Country Affiliate WinnerTaiwan Kentington Resort Yang Mei Man

    Indonesia Regent Vacation Club Lendra

    Indonesia PVB Group Ltd Yusdiani

    Indonesia Royal Resorts, Karma Royal Group Ni Luh Widya Capri Corniati

    Philippines Club Astoria Lara Lane Palacio

    Philippines Club Balai Isabel, Inc. Myra L. Rafer

    Philippines Sunrise Vacation Club Soc Bautista

    Philippines One Tagaytay Place Winnie Macatangay

    Malaysia Palace Vacation Club Fauzana Bt Othman

    Malaysia Iconic Vacation Club Mohd Fauzi Kamaruddin

    Thailand Laguna Holiday Club Jiraporn (Boom) Wannasriyapong

    China Iconic Vacation Club Susan Zhang Jinpin

    China Freedom Vacation Club Zhu Zhen Qing

    China HNA Vacation Ownership Club Tina Li Qiong

    China Shanghai Runner International Vacation Club Kevin Chen Fu Tao

    China Huanmei International Vacation Club Guo Jun

    Exceptional CustomerService Award

    Ms. Yang Mei Man Kentington resort (Taiwan)

    Mr. Lendra regent Vacation Club (indonesia)

    Ms. Fauzana Bt Othman palace Vacation Club (Malaysia)

    EVENTS

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  • Outstanding Customer Service AwardCountry Affiliate WinnerTaiwan Kentington resort Steven Yu

    indonesia Medewi Bay retreat ika Sari

    indonesia Club risata Bali Fajjar Hadi Muryana

    indonesia Bali Masari Villas & Spa Wayan Gunawan

    philippines Club Astoria Jerico Teylan

    Malaysia palace Vacation Club Sabtuyah Sepawi

    Thailand Laguna Holiday Club phuket resort Sirisri (Sisy) Bilyamae

    Thailand Anantara Bophut Koh Samui resort & Spa Celine pezel

    China Beijing Longtou Apartment Song Yaou

    China Surf plaza Qingdao Cui Yuming

    China paradise Hill Hotel Zhuhai Li Zingtong

    China SrC@ramada plaza Hotel Yantai Qin Hua

    China HiVC@Chongqing Sheraton international Apartment Li Xiangyu

    Ms. Cui Yuming Surf plaza Qingdao (China)

    Mr. Song Yaou Beijing Longtou (China)

    Mr. Wayan Gunawan Bali Masari Villas & Spa (indonesia)

    Ms. Qin HuaSrC@ ramada plaza Hotel Yantai (China)

    Outstanding Customer Service

    Mr. Steven yu Kentington resort (Taiwan)

    Ms. Sabtuyah Sepawi palace Vacation Club (Malaysia)

    EVENTS

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  • Ms. Natha Tapparat Laguna Holiday Club (Thailand)

    Ms. He Hai Qiong Huanmei international Vacation Club (China)

    Ms. Wang Fang iconic Vacation Club(China)

    Telemarketer Award Country Affiliate Winnerindonesia regent Vacation Club i Ketut Sumartana

    philippines One Tagaytay place Aldrin Lopez

    philippines Club Astoria Santiago Manago

    Malaysia iconic Vacation Club Muzaidawati Khan (Eyda)

    Thailand Laguna Holiday Club Natha Tapparat (Ta)

    Thailand Anantara Vacation Club Visarut Tantitaweewatana (pond)

    Thailand Anantara Vacation Club Nadia Saba

    Thailand Anantara Vacation Club Chang Ming Hua Helen

    China Freedom Vacation Club Xi Chun Hong

    China Shanghai runner international Vacaton Club Yang Yang

    China iconic Vacation Club Cindy Wang Fang

    China Huanmei international Vacation Club He Haiqiong

    TelemarketerAward

    Ms. Muzaidawati Khan iconic Vacation Club (Malaysia)

    Ms. Nadia Saba Anantara Vacation Club (Thailand)

    Ms. Xi Chun Hong Freedom Vacation Club (China)

    EVENTS

    iSSuE 1, 2013 i VENTurES 17 n

  • rCi is committed to strengthening the Vacation Ownership by helping to ensure that timeshare owners enjoy quality vacation experiences. Towards that end, we seek to affiliate resorts that adhere to high standards of product quality and service delivery.

    To honor the rCi Affiliated resorts who meet or exceed these high standards, rCi is proud to present them with the rCi Gold Crown resort Award, rCi Silver Crown resort Award and the rCi Hospitality Award.

    Congratulations to all our winners and keep up the good work!

    RCI 2013 Resort Recognition Program

    Country id Name

    indonesia A539 Hawaii, A Club Bali resort

    Korea 3049 Kensington resort Seorak Beach

    philippines 7647 puerto del Sol Beach resort And Hotel

    Taiwan 4325 Kentington resort

    Country id Name

    China 8587 HNA@ intl'l Ap Convention Ctr Sanya

    indonesia 6961 Bali Shangrila Beach Club

    A550 Chateau de Bali dreamland

    A551 Chateau de Bali ungasan

    Korea 3697 Kensington resort Chungju

    philippines A548 Boracay regency Beach resort

    Thailand 6305 Grand Tower inn

    4344 patong resort Hotel

    Gold Crown Award 2013 Silver Crown Award 2013

    Hospitality Award 2013

    Country id Name

    China C700 HiVC @ Chongqing Sheraton int'l Apt

    8585 HNA@ Beach & Spa resort Haikou

    8586 HNA@ Kangle Garden Hainan

    C722 Huangshan Grandview resorts Hotels

    A525 ramada plaza Hotel Yantai

    6888 The Silk road dunhuang Hotel

    indonesia 6920 rVC @ Hotel rama Candidasa

    3968 royal Bali Beach Club At Candidasa

    5254 royal Bali Beach Club At Jimbaran Bay

    A538 Bali island Villas & Spa

    5459 Bali Masari Villas & Spa

    3691 risata Bali resort & Spa

    5450 The Grand Bali - Nusa dua

    C386 royal Bali Beach Club At Sanur

    Malaysia A521 palace Of The Golden Horses

    2864 Berjaya Tioman resort

    C702 damai Beach resort

    A540 Golden palm Tree Sea Villas & Spa

    philippines C384 One Tagaytay place

    7773 Astoria plaza Suites

    A366 Club Balai isabel

    A509 El puerto Marina Beach resort

    A006 The A.Venue Hotel Suites

    Thailand 5216 Tai-pan Hotel

    4923 royal Lighthouse Villa At Boat Lagoon resort

    C383 Anantara Vacation Club At Bophut, Koh Samui

    C382 Anantara Vacation Club At phuket Villas

    8715 Laguna Holiday Club phuket resort

    4973 LHC @ Allamanda Laguna phuket

    C725 uVC @ Marrakesh Hua Hin residences

    Vietnam C438 Hon Tam Eco Green resort

    EVENTS

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  • Thailand property Awards celebrate the best of the best and offer an unrivalled showcase of Thailands residential real estate industry. Now in their seventh year, the awards assist in promoting the high level of quality in Thailands real estate, construction, architectural and interior design sectors, as well as the professional services on offer in the Kingdom.

    The professionally run awards have put Thailands real estate industry on the world stage and begin with nominations by the public and the industry, followed by entry submissions and judging by a panel of professionals, including site visits for the top short-listed developments in each category. Nominees for Thailand property Awards go through a tough and grueling process with only one overall winner awarded in each category.

    The awards are highly coveted by real estate agents, property developers, interior designers and architects in Thailands residential real estate industry and the annual Gala dinner attracts leading figures from the Kingdoms real estate and business communities.

    rCi is pleased to be the Co- Sponsor and presenter for this event.

    The South East Asia property Awards shine the spotlight on the many high calibre work within the real estate industry encompassing construction, architecture, interior design as well as property management services.

    The South East Asia property Awards kick off with nominations from the public and industry before continuing on with entry submissions followed by judging by a panel of professionals. The Awards then culminate with site visits for short-listed developments

    South East Asia property Awards 2012

    in each category. The competitive and grueling process results with just one winner in each category.

    The awards ceremony is proudly presented by the producers of the Thailand property Awards, now in their seventh year.

    The awards is our way to recognise the hard work, passion and vision shared among real estate agents, property developers, interior designers and architects from around South East Asia who continue to push the envelope in luxury living.

    EVENTS

    iSSuE 1, 2013 i VENTurES 19 n

  • The 2012 Alternative Ownership Conference Asia-pacific (AOCAp) was held at Marco polo Hotel, Hong Kong, on the 8th and 9th Oct 2012. The event saw the gathering of global hospitality brands and hoteliers in Hong Kong for the fourth highly successfully 2012 Alternative Ownership Conference Hotels and resorts Asia pacific (AOCAp), with speakers from international brands Anantara, Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, Absolute World Group, Fairmont raffles and Wyndham, as well as

    AOCAP 2012

    EVENTS

    Sepang Beijing Signing Ceremony

    hotel groups such as Langham and HNA China, to name just a few

    115 delegates from 12 countries, including Australia, New Zealand, united Kingdom, Germany, Spain, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, indonesia, united States, the peoples republic of China and Hong Kong, attended AOCAp 2012 at the Marco polo Hong Kong Hotel.

    n 20 VENTurES i iSSuE 1, 2013

  • it was a rainy season and all of us were worried about the turnout. preparations for the roadshow began months ago. All of us were excited and looking forward in having a fruitful face to face engagement with our members. The rain certainly did not dampen our mood that day.

    To our surprise our first members arrived hours ahead and the crowd start pouring in half an hour before the commencement of the presentation.

    EVENTS

    Kuala Lumpur Roadshow

    Shanghai Roadshow

    iSSuE 1, 2013 i VENTurES 21 n

  • rCi.COM

    rCi uNVEiLS CHiNESE LANGuAGE WEBSiTE FOr EXCHANGE MEMBErSOn dec 19, 2012, we launched a fully-transactional website in simplified Chinese available to our exchange members. rCi.com suits the needs of members and affiliates with 13 language options that include English, Spanish, italian, Greek, French, portuguese, dutch and, now, simplified Chinese.

    At rCi, we are dedicated to serving our subscribing members who reside all over the world and our affiliated resorts found in approximately 100 countries, said Gordon Gurnik, president, rCi. We created this version of our website to better serve our Chinese members, making the vacation exchange process even easier.

    Members who would prefer to view the exchange companys website in simplified Chinese can log in at rCi.com, where they will be able to view the resort directory, search and book exchange vacations, manage their accounts, book Extra Vacation GetawaysSM, renew and upgrade their memberships and much more.

    The enhanced functionality available on the site includes the ability to view recommendations based on past searches, save favorites, and view special offers through the Exchange Search Filter. Members who book their exchange vacation online will also have the opportunity to save on exchange fees.

    With the high adoption of internet usage in China, we understood that making rCi.com available in simplified Chinese would potentially bring great value to our Chinese members, said Adrian Lee, managing director, rCi Asia. We believe that both members and resort affiliates will be pleased with the options now available to them online in their preferred language.

    Chinese members will gain more professional and comprehensive service with this website, which will help improve members online exchange experience, said Zhou Zhong, chairman of Huanmei international Vacation Club, an rCi affiliate. Together with rCi we will provide the best service possible to members.

    To view the site in your preferred language, visit www.rCi.com and choose from the many language options available in the drop-down menu in the upper right-hand corner of the screen.

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  • rCi.COM

    iSSuE 1, 2013 i VENTurES 23 n

  • WHATS NEW

    rCi + ME TrAVEL MEMOriES

    * Subject to availability based on value-for-value vacation exchange principles. These vacations are limited. Destinations and travel times are subject to availability and confirmed on a first come, first served basis. Offer includes only accommodations and specifically excludes travel costs and other expenses that may be incurred. Taxes, additional fees and charges may apply. All-inclusive resorts may charge a mandatory all-inclusive fee. Promotional discounts and offers may not apply to all properties. Other restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited by law.

    Cruises are available for purchase to RCI Subscribing Members only with a qualified Deposit (at a special member price) or with cash (sometimes referred to as Cruise Extra VacationsSM getaways). A qualified Deposit including Combined Deposit and/or Deposit Credits must have a Deposit Trading Power of 14 (standard RCI Weeks Exchange Rate) or 7 (reduced RCI Weeks Exchange Rate). The standard and reduced RCI Weeks Exchange Rates are subject to change without notice by RCI Cruise. Fees may apply including, without limitation, the applicable Combined Deposit fee. Certain restrictions may apply.

    2012 RCI, LLC. All rights reserved.

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    getting the most out of your timeshare!

    Your Guide toRCI Inside

    ME+rci impression(FA)PATHED_NEW.indd 1 21/12/12 11:22 AM

    rci impression(FA)PATHED_NEW.indd 4 21/12/12 11:22 AM

    rci impression(FA)PATHED_NEW.indd 6 21/12/12 11:22 AM

    rci impression(FA)PATHED_NEW.indd 5 21/12/12 11:22 AM

    rci impression(FA)PATHED_NEW.indd 7 21/12/12 11:22 AM

    rCi HANdBOOK - iNSidE GuidE

    rCi + Me Travel Memories, a collection of travelogues from our rCi members who have been so much part of rCi over the past years. The name rCi+ Me = Travel Memories was mooted from the very dream that rCi wanted to play an integral part of our members holiday, and thats because our members holiday truly means the world to us!

    With more than 4,000 resorts in over 100 countries, there is something for everyone. We only have one question. What are you waiting for? Here is a quick overview to get you started in just a few minutes with our rCi Handbook.

    n 24 VENTurES i iSSuE 1, 2013

  • WHATS NEW

    e-ENdLESS VACATiON MAGAZiNE

    Be awed by flickering city lights, bask in the gleam of sunny beaches and indulge in sizzling exotic delights

    A burst of city lights

    Experience Sparkle, Sun and Sizzle

    The shining culture and tradition of South Korea

    Flaming flavours of China

    Glistening seas of Japan

    Shop like a star in the Big Cities

    Issue 2, 2012

    More Than 4000 Resorts Over 100 Countries Globally Special Travel Benefits and Services

    54

    Apart from the scenic attractions, bordering states New York and Pennsylvania are teeming with shopping destinations where shopaholics can definitely have a field day. From antiques to fashion finds, there is definitely something for every kind of shopper at these east coast states.

    Shopping mecca at the Empire StateNew York is an eclectic mix of culture, chow, sights and sounds. It also boasts of a diverse range of shops that fit any budget.

    For fashionistas who live and breathe designer labels, Fifth Avenue is a must-visit with high-end stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Louis Vuitton and Prada. More designer brands are at Madison Avenue, which houses Barneys, Carolina Herrera, Calvin Klein, and Hermes. The Meatpacking District, once the centre of the meat industry, has been transformed into one chic fashion strip with boutiques like Stella McCartney and Alexander McQueen, and the Apple Store. SOHO also boasts of high-fashion boutiques like Bloomingdales and Chanel, while Macys carry brands like Ralph Lauren and Donna Karan.

    Union Square is home to the Greenmarket, where you can buy the freshest local and organic food and flowers. For one-of-a-kind items, head off to NoLita (North of Little Italy), housing unique

    boutiques as well as shoe stores, and jewellery shops. Over at Chelsea Gallery District, store-hop for your next art purchase with its bevy of art galleries. For thrift shoppers, theres Century 21 for designer labels at 40% off. Buffalo Exchange on Manhattans East Village, meanwhile, offers vintage clothing and accessories.

    Great finds at the Keystone StateOn the southern border of New York, Philadelphia in Pennsylvania is worth a visit, with shops that offer unique buys from local shops and home-grown designers.

    Boyds is a great place to look for tailored menswear. Sweet Jane offers great vintage finds like Jackie Kennedy dresses and buckskin mens shoes. Joan Shepp is the place to go for high-end brands at discounted rates. For a wider selection of items, visit The Shops at Liberty Place or Wanamakers, Phillys first department store. King of Prussia Mall is a premier shopping destination with labels like Tory Burch and Neiman Marcus. For antique collectors, the Antique Row boasts of numerous high-end stores and curiosity shops. 9th Street Italian Market and Reading Terminal Market are the best stops for local produce.

    Prepare to loose those purse strings and scour these stores for items that will tickle your fancy.

    The Villas at Tree Tops (#251)Rte 209, Bushkill, Pennsylvania 18324http://treetopsfairwayvillas.com/tfv/

    STAY

    5

    Wearcomfortableshoesanddressinanoutfitconducivefortryingon clothes.

    BringyourcreditcardsespeciallywhenshoppinginNewYork. Bringing big amounts of cash is not safe when strolling the streets for your next shopping stop.

    ShoppingforclothingorshoesanywhereinPennsylvaniaistax-free.

    Shopping Tips

    Raid the racks of New York and Pennsylvania for great retail finds

    ShoppingStar-Spangled

    If you think the United States has stood still, who built the largest shopping centre in the world?

    - Richard M. Nixon -

    4

    98

    ThesuninAustraliaisintense,sobecautiouswhilespendinglongperiods of time outdoors. Avoid sunburn by applying sunscreen lotion with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15+ or more, and reapply every few hours, especially when the suns rays are at their most damaging, which is between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., and more frequently if youre swimming, sweating or towelling off. Also wear sunglasses with UV protection and hat.

    Swimorsurfatabeachpatrolledbylifesavers.Swimonlyinareasmarked safe.

    Dontswimundertheinfluenceofalcoholordrugs.Dontrunanddiveinto the water.

    Accompanyyoungchildrenandweakswimmerswhentheygointothe water, especially in surf beaches, where the waves are much more powerful.

    After basking under the sun and enjoying the waters, pamper your body and re-energise your mind and spirit in one of Port Macquaries spa havens.

    Visit Aqua Vitae Day Spa or Port Macquarie Day Spa to indulge in spa treatments that offer luxurious relaxation.

    Port Macquarie also boasts of a wide array of attractions for those looking for great places to explore. Historic sites, national parks, and beautiful nature reserves are a sight to behold. Watersport activities and scenic river cruises offer adrenaline-pumping activities for adventure seekers. Shopping centres, markets, restaurants and cafs are also scattered around the coastal resort town, offering tourists a variety of choices for shopping and dining.

    Plan your vacation around summer, which is between December and February in Australia. Prepare to be mesmerised by its stunning beauty and experience a one-of-a-kind relaxing rendezvous in the beautiful Port Macquarie.

    Beach & Sun Safety Tips

    Teeming with beaches and relaxing sanctuaries, Port Macquarie in Australia is indeed the beach lovers paradise.

    UnwindDown Under

    Flynns Beach Port Macquaries most popular family beach features barbecue

    facilities and shaded picnic areas for families who want to share a good

    meal and spend some bonding time.

    Town Beach One of Port Macquaries most popular beaches, this beach is

    good for sheltered swimming, as its protected by the rocky outcrop of

    Flagstaff Hill.

    Oxleys Beach Named after Surveyor General John Oxley, who founded Port Macquarie,

    this beach is a great area for barbecues and picnics. A pet-

    friendly beach, you can bring your dog for some leisurely stroll.

    Lighthouse Beach A beautiful long beach situated next to the Historic Lighthouse, it offers

    great activities for everyone to enjoy. The North of Watonga Rocks is ideal for swimming and surfing, while the South of Watonga Rocks is a good place for walking your dog, horse

    riding and fishing.

    Nobbys Beach and Shelley Beach

    Nobbys Beach offers some spectacular views of the coastline,

    while Shelley Beach is home to Harrys lookout, named after a local

    legend who has been squatting there since the 1960s.

    8

    Port Macquarie is one of the Australias best holiday destinations to relax and recharge, offering a bevy of clean and uncrowded beach escapes:

    Port Pacific Resort (#1816)Port Macquarie, NSW Australiahttp://www.portpacific.com.au/

    Vacation Village (#0832)Port Macquarie, NSW Australiahttp://www.classicholidayclub.com.au//

    Village Resort (#1486)Port Macquarie, NSW Australiahttp://www.villageresort.com.au/

    STAY

    Theres nothing like a fantastic beach getaway to momentarily escape the hustle and bustle of the city. If youre looking for some much-needed

    R&R against a backdrop of sun, sand and sea, Port Macquarie in Australia is the perfect destination to rejuvenate and soothe your senses.

    Located on the Mid North coast of New South Wales, just four-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney, the coastal resort town of Port Macquarie has some of Australias

    most pristine waterways and breathtaking beaches. With temperatures averaging between 20C to 32C during summer, its climate is noted for being one of best in

    Australia. Thanks to an abundance of superb beaches, Port Macquarie has become a popular destination for travellers and surfers all year round.

    Australia is so cool that its hard to even know where to start describing it. The beaches are beautiful; so is the weather. Not too crowded.

    Great food, great music, really nice people. It must be a lot like Los Angeles was many years ago.

    - Mary-Kate Olsen -

    rCi NEW MEMBEr WELCOME KiT

    in this issue of Endless Vacations, you can glisten like a true star and experience the radiating beauty of our featured destinations. immerse in the awesome animation effect, vibrant images and music when you read it via our E-version which you can find it in our website. www.rci.com

    We are proud to present our brand new rCi Members Welcome Kit for the year 2013. The new Kit come in a stylish design similar to that of a luggage, a matt lamination finish with Spot uV Gloss Varnish on the main cover providing additional visual stimulus. in it, you can also find our Members Guide Book, rCi resort directory dVd and rCi Membership Card.

    iSSuE 1, 2013 i VENTurES 25 n

  • Open up your world

    MEMBER BENEFITS AT A GLANCEOur team of dedicated and experienced consultants are on hand to guide you through the selection and booking process, making booking your cruise holiday a breeze.

    Cruise Exchange Use your Vacation Credits towards the price of a cruise, with a whole world of destinations available to choose from.

    Cruise Purchase Alternatively keep your Vacation Credits and take advantage of our Preferred Member Rates (PMR). Select cruises at discounted rates with no black out dates, from over 10,000 itineraries worldwide.

    Friends and Family As an added benefit, friends and family are eligible for Preferred Member Rates, Exchange pricing can be extended up to four cabins on the same cruise itinerary.

    www.rci.com1000S OF CRUISES WORLDWIDE | LAST MINUTE DEALS | EXCLUSIVE MEMBER RATES | FRIENDS & FAMILY RATES

    A COLLECTION OF WORLD CLASS EXPERIENCES

    to cruisingJoin thousands of other RCI members who have already enjoyed cruising and take advantage of the amazing RCI Cruise benefits.

    Whether your a first-time cruiser or an avid multi-cruiser, RCI Cruise has amazing and exclusive member deals. With unbelievable value on all the major cruise lines, to any

    cruise destination or for any cruise itinerary around the globe - RCI Cruise has the best deals for you!

    For more information on Cruise Exchange and Cruise Get-Aways contact RCI Cruise.

    NOW is the time to cruise - make RCI Cruise your first port of call.

    Thinking about a cruise? NOW is the best time to book...

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  • iSSuE 1, 2013 i VENTurES 27 n


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