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We hereby confirm the offer for your 1000 Club la Costa Destination Pack points, at 10GBP per point, for 10000GBP. Our contract states that the vendor will receive the full balance within the duration of the contract.

We receive a 30% non refundable deposit of the agreed purchase price from the purchasers' credit card. At this point, we need from you as the vendor a fully refundable security retention of 1300€ against your title deeds. This is only payable by Visa / Mastercard (giving you an automatic protection of 90 days under the 1974 credit consumer act section 75).

Upon your receipt of the agreed balance please contact our London office and we will send a courier to your address to take receipt of your title deeds and deliver them to us. Once this has happened our accounts department will process the paperwork and at that point you will be fully refunded your retention via the credit card facilities. Completion is usually 4-6 weeks.

Linkback - Impex Property Concepts
]]> 2/19/2009 9:15:59 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5389 5389
Linkback - Worldwide Marketing Services
]]> 2/19/2009 7:34:07 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5388 5388
I had a timeshare in Tenerife which I sold about 10 years ago. It's been that long that I can't remember the name of the resort, just that it was in Playa de Las Americas, Adeje. All I can remember is that the resort was affilliated to RCI.

For several years now I've been regularly getting 'phone calls asking if I want to sell, buy another week/fortnight at another resort or take part in a survey. Every time I get a call, I politely ask to be removed from the database or to speak to someone who can, or how I can speak to someone who can remove me from the database of timeshare owners.
All these calls come from +34 (Spanish) numbers, but it's never the same actual number twice.
When I ask how I can go about being removed from the database, I get.....
"I can't divulge that information"
"My supervisor isn't here and I can't do it without his/her say-so"
"You can only do it by writing to your resort"
"Once you're on the database you can't get off"
or the caller hangs-up.
I can't bar the calls as they never come from the same number and sometimes the caller's number is withheld.
I'm close to my wit's end now, this happens at least once a fortnight.
Who can I turn to to get this stopped? Changing my number isn't practical, and anyway why should I?
Thanks
Stuart.

Linkback - Unwanted 'Phone Calls
]]> 2/19/2009 7:32:43 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5387 5387
Linkback - Transglobal Holiday Services
]]> 2/19/2009 11:27:34 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5386 5386
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]]> 2/18/2009 7:41:14 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5385 5385 I am one of the people wronged by a certain Company in Tennerife. Having had the majority of the money returned with the help of Inventory Solutions I still have Barclays on my back but have told them they will not get a penny more. Unfortunately I was left with a week at Hollywood Mirage which I have never used. I have now been billed with interest for maintenance. My question is how do I get rid of this Albatross as I know nobody will buy it,since I am about to be made redundant. Any help appreciated.[V]

Linkback - Unwanted timeshare
]]> 2/18/2009 6:14:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5384 5384
Linkback - universal transfers
]]> 2/18/2009 9:08:12 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5383 5383
Lawyer Peter Wright said the men planned to smuggle the bomb ingredients aboard jets bound from Britain to North America disguised as "soft-drinks bottles, batteries and other innocuous items" carried in hand luggage.

"They were to be detonated in-flight by suicide bombers," including several of the accused, said Wright as he opened the case against the defendants.

Eight men aged between 22 and 30 deny conspiracy to murder. But Wright said the defendants were close to carrying out their plan when they were arrested in August 2006.

The arrests led to huge travel chaos, as hundreds of flights were grounded and thousands of people had their trips disrupted. They also triggered massive changes to airport security — including restrictions on carrying liquids on planes — that persist to this day.

Wright said the plot would have caused "a civilian death toll from terrorism on an almost unprecedented scale."

He said alleged ringleaders Abdulla Ahmed Ali and Assad Sarwar, both 28, "shared a common interest ... that involved inflicting heavy casualties upon an unwitting civilian population, all in the name of Islam."

The defendants, he said, were "men with the cold-eyed certainty of the fanatic." The blasts were intended as "a violent and deadly statement of intent that would have a truly global impact."

Wright said that the plot was organized in Britain but was being directed from Pakistan.
Wright said the plotters planned to inject a hydrogen peroxide-based explosive mixture into plastic bottles with hypodermic syringes to make deadly liquid bombs.

He said notes indicated the bombers planned to deflect suspicion by carrying items such as pornographic magazines and condoms in their luggage.

The prosecutor said a computer memory stick found in Ali's possession contained flight timetables, with seven flights highlighted, operated by American Airlines, United Airlines and Air Canada from London's Heathrow airport to San Francisco, Washington, Chicago, New York, Montreal and Toronto.

All were scheduled to take off from Heathrow's Terminal 3 within three hours of one another and would be in mid-flight at the same time.

Wright said the plot may have involved attacks on even more flights. He said plotters were overheard talking about different airport terminals and up to 18 suicide bombers.

Wright said police had found videos of six of the defendants that appeared to have been intended to be played after their deaths. On one, defendant Umar Islam said he was prepared to "die and kill" for Allah, and claimed the attack was "revenge for the actions of the U.S.A. in the Muslim lands."

The prosecutor said the plot involved "acts of terrorism on an international scale, directed from abroad using homegrown terrorists — young, radicalized Muslims prepared to lose their lives in a global act of jihad."

A court order restricts reporting of some details of the case, which is expected to last 10 months.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hYZRPHYCcMuSmUTIDLtyVk4HTGvQD96DH98O1


Linkback - 8 British men tried for alleged airline bomb plot
]]> 2/18/2009 6:47:27 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5382 5382
From Marriott International's FQ408 conference call: (MAR)

Our timeshare business was particularly hard hit by the economic climate. Contract sales of our core timeshare product declined 37% during the quarter while sales of our fractional and residential products were negative reflecting $150 million of sales reversals related to anticipated contract cancellations at three luxury projects.

We have the least optimism around [the luxury] product class. That product class is more like whole residential. As a consequence it is more likely to be sticky in a weakened demand environment and will take some time to come back. Therefore of all the possibilities in the future we think the likelihood of starting new luxury projects any time soon is very, very slim.

We don’t expect that we will start many core [residential] timeshare projects either in the near term but we are hopeful we will see demand come back to the point where returns have improved significantly and that business can go forward. That certainly is much more possible to happen sooner than the luxury fractional does.

Having said that in January where we have the Ritz-Carlton product we were pleasantly surprised by some of the fractional volume we saw and I think it gives us some optimism for the year. Partly that is a function of these resorts reaching opening... They are easier to sell obviously when they are right there before you.

WSJ notes that government seems to be taking up some of the slack for luxury travel. That may not last too long in the court of public opinion:

Corporate customers from relatively higher rate paying financial services firms are being supplanted by lower rated corporate and government business.

On construction:

We have cancelled pre-development projects and don’t expect to start any new projects in 2009.

As we look ahead beyond 2009 U.S. hotel supply growth is likely to substantially trail demand recovery. This is the reverse of the situation we will encounter this year but it is clearer than ever that the brakes on new construction are being and will be applied more dramatically than ever before. This is not likely to change for some time.

http://seekingalpha.com/article/120815-marriott-on-luxury-and-timesharing-markets


Linkback - Marriott on Luxury and Timesharing Markets
]]> 2/18/2009 6:45:02 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5381 5381
While the bridge loan will reflect an increase in costs in the long run, it will prevent delays in construction and completion. According to Maui Land president and CEO, there will be no delays in construction and the Ritz Carlton Hawaii will be open this summer.

Late last year, Carlton’s lender Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy. During the time, the Hawaii timeshare was 83 percent complete. This is becoming a common trend for most timeshare companies, making them search for new and alternative financing sources. Fortunately for the Ritz-Carlton, Maui Land and Marriot were more than willing to approve bridge funding.

On another note, the costs for completing the project decreased, because the Ritz-Carlton sold 10 timeshare units were sold last month.

The Honolulu Advertiser describes the new resort, “84 traditional fee-simple condos, and 62 units being sold as “fractional ownership” condos—essentially a longer-term version of timeshare, in which each unit is shared by 12 buyers who receive three weeks of annual use.”

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20090216295/Latest/Ritz-Carlton-Timeshare-stays-on-course-with-New-Financing-Agreement.


Linkback - Ritz Carlton Timeshare - New Finance Agreement
]]> 2/18/2009 6:43:18 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5380 5380
While the number of visits abroad is falling sharply, more and more Britons are looking for options to holiday at home this summer, say reports.

And camp and caravan sites are most in demand - while enquiries to hotels and B&Bs are down. One operator, 118 118, says calls for caravan & camping sites rose 40 per cent in December and January, while calls for lodging in Britain fell by 20 per cent.

The trend is confirmed by The Caravan Club, which says advance bookings for 2009 are up 40 per cent on last year.

The increased demand could translate in more than 2m extra caravan holidays being taken in Britain this year, adds the National Caravan Council, with a final tally approaching nearly 13.9m.

And with foreign trips declining by six per cent in the last quarter of 2008, the figure is expected to top the 13.8m figure of British visits to Spain in 2007 - the last year of full travel statistics.

NCC director-general John Lally says: "Bookings in UK holiday and touring parks are up by anything from 8% to 50%, as people choose ‘staycationing’, and opt for self-catering and value over euro Costa-lot holidays."

The slew of new figures came on the eve of the National Boat Caravan & Outdoor Show, which opens at the NEC in Birmingham tomorrow.

Lally added: "There is widespread evidence that existing caravan owners are using their caravans more," with caravans appealing to holidaymakers as they allow people to control costs, and are increasingly seen as green options.

"Caravans, motorhomes and caravan holiday homes have changed beyond recognition in the last decade - many parks can compete with the best, boasting extensive leisure facilities, high levels of service and are very family-orientated."

The Camping and Caravanning Club this week announced that it is to instal wireless broadband (WiFi) at 91 of its sites in the UK by April. Business Systems Director Garry Barr said: “In this day and age, most individuals prefer the option of internet access, even when they are on holiday."

According to the NCC, an estimated 500,000 caravans are in regular use, out of a total of 1.5m caravanners, motor caravanners and trailer tenters in the UK.

The rising popularity of caravanning could even create more than 1,000 new jobs in UK caravan parks, mainly in coastal areas, as additional staff are taken on to cope with demand.

According to The Caravan Club, its members generated £183million last year into rural tourism economies when shopping, eating out, buying local produce and visiting local attractions.

Most money (£39m) was spent in the South-West, followed The Midlands (£26m), East Anglia (£22.1m), Wales (£19m), Scotland (£16.6m) and Yorkshire (£15m). Least money was spent in London (£4.5m) and the North-West (£3.6m).

The popularity of all three is rising sharply in Britain, and appeal is broadly spread - include a travelling aristocrat

Nick Lomas, director of marketing for the Caravan Club said: “We confidently predict that 2009 will be the year of the great British, value for money holiday.

"At a time of considerable economic uncertainty, tourism regions across the UK will continue to benefit from stay at home Britons and with thousands of campsites and destinations to choose from, there is no better time to plan and book holiday breaks in the UK.”

The National Caravan Boat and Outdoor Show takes place at the NEC, Birmingham, from Feb 17-22.The show is open from 10.00 until 18.00 every day and parking is free.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/travel/news/article5717550.ece


Linkback - Caravans overtake Spain as Britons' popular hols
]]> 2/18/2009 6:41:43 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5379 5379
Bookings must be made before Wednesday 25 March, and it’s expected that the seats will sell out quickly. There’s a 50p booking fee and the tickets are not refundable.

There’s good news also for those over 60. National Express is offering discounts of as much as 50 per cent on coach fares during February. The discount is available every day during the month to more than a thousand destinations in Britain, during both peak and off-peak periods.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/national-express-coach-seats-from-1-pound-5634189.html


Linkback - National Express coach seats from 1 pound
]]> 2/18/2009 6:36:48 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5378 5378 We are suspicious of them, even more so since I discovered they are on a time-share blacklist.
Does anyone have any knowledge/advice about this they can share with us?

Linkback - Ocean Associates Solutions
]]> 2/17/2009 11:05:14 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5377 5377

Annual Points Allocation 90,000
Current Use Year 2008
Current Use Year Balance 180,000
RCI Points saved from 2007 Use Year 134,429
Unused Saved Points will expire May 31, 2009
2009 Use Year Balance 48,429

by looking on the RCI website it seems there are MANY resorts available using points but the ones that i was interested in,in mexico (all inclusive resorts) state that there are additional fee's of something like $1,500+ US Dollars on top of the points. an Example of one that i saw was:

MANDATORY ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT. FEES MAY VARY ACCORDING TO SEASON. All inclusive 2008 fees: Wks 44-50: US$75, Wks 51 & 52: US$165. 2009 fees: Wks 1-4=US$130, Wks 5-12 & 15= US$143, Wks 13-14 & 16-17=US$116, Wks 18-25=US$100, Wks 26-34 & 47=US$112, Wks 35-43=US$90, Wks 44-46 & 48-50=US$95 Wks 51-52=US$193. Fees are per person per day. A Minimum of two adults per room is required

but my friend with the points said that the fees are usually like £200 MAX, the thing is that i dont really want to be hassling him for information because the reason he cant go is because hes really busy with his work.

basically i can spend all the points, which i am assuming is like 130,000+? and i dont want to leave too much spare because they would just expire otherwise and be a waste.

i just have NO idea on how i can spend them because the RCI website is confusing as hell and everytime i see something i like it tells me to CALL UP RCI FOR MORE INFO, and when i do call up RCI im unable to speak on the account holders behalf even though my friend has called up to say that i can. apparently you have to fill in some form with proof of identification to RCI before you can and its too much hassle.

ANY HELP/ADVICE is greatly appreciated [:D]

Linkback - How do i spend RCI points??? Help pls
]]> 2/16/2009 8:48:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5376 5376 Guess what it is:



Today it is worth 10 points.

Every day that passes without a correct answer, I will add 5 points to it.

Answer to be revealed 22 Feb 2009



Linkback - Guess what it is - 16 Feb
]]> 2/16/2009 7:50:11 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5375 5375 Can anyone out there help us.
We joined European Coast & Sun Holidays when we were holidaying in Tenerife in summer 2007.
They have not delivered on their promises of prizes, cashback certificates etc and we found that the holidays Timelinx offered us weren't any cheaper than we could get ourselves dealing direct so we partially gave in to the fact that we'd been conned out of a considerable joining fee. Recently a company called Ocean Associates based in Tenerife contacted us to tell us that the afore-mentioned company had gone out of business and for a fee of £250.00 (which we paid in our desperation) they could retrieve most of the money back. I have since found this company's name on a timeshare blacklist although they told us that they had been paid by the Spanish Government/courts to represent people like us who had lost out to these holiday club scammers.
As you can imagine we are very disturbed and concerned by what looks like another scam and are doubly annoyed and saddened to be possibly conned yet again.
Can anyone advise us on any of this please?

Linkback - European Coast & Sun Holidays and Ocean Associates
]]> 2/16/2009 7:18:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5374 5374
Linkback - Selling Time
]]> 2/16/2009 12:41:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5373 5373
Linkback - St Frances Exeter. Have we been foolish?
]]> 2/15/2009 10:49:03 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5372 5372
Linkback - Selling Anfi biennial not allowed?
]]> 2/15/2009 6:24:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5371 5371
Ours appears to simply circulate the smoke and steam out of the pans!

If you dont spend approx £20 per unit on this ducting, you might as well remove the smoke detectors...

I expect I will be getting a visit shortly from someone on site, though there are no audible alarms inside the unit...

Whilst waiting I shall enjoy my steak.

This posting is made "tongue in cheek", and is merely a suggestion not a criticsm.

I should add that we are not in a refurbished unit.



Linkback - Refurbishments
]]> 2/15/2009 2:48:40 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5370 5370
Hapimag, Europe’s oldest timeshare provider, is moving with the times and offering a more flexible approach. The Swiss-based group, which was established in 1963, now has more than 139,000 shareholders using resorts throughout Europe, the Nordic countries, Africa and the US.

Investors are awarded 12 points for every €5,000-worth of shares they hold, and holidays cost 4-38 points per week, depending on the property and location chosen. “It is not a classical timeshare fixed at one location,” explains Kurt Scholl, Hapimag chief executive.

Shareholders who want to exit the scheme can sell their shares on the free market or back to the company. However, Hapimag only offers this repurchase facility after seven years, and then requires two further years’ notice of a sale.

Investors don’t get back the full value of their investment, either. Hapimag will only pay back the net asset value of the share based on the overall equity divided by the number of shares issued, which curently equates to €2,000. It also limits the number of shares it will buy back to the number it has sold in that calendar year.

Other schemes offer easier ways to get your money out.

Holiday Property Bond (HPB), which was established in 1983, operates as an asset-backed life assurance bond regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Every £1 invested in a bond earns one point, and points can buy holidays throughout Europe.

It has more than 38,000 bondholders who exchange points for the use of holiday properties throughout Europe. There are two exit opportunities: a full refund after their first holiday if not satisfied, or a return of the unit value of the bond, currently 73p in the £1, after two years, less 25 per cent upfront fees.

Other benefits include points-free holidays in 300 privately-owned villas in low season, and the ability to pass a bond on to heirs.

But while a bond may be considered as a long-term capital asset, it should not be treated as a conventional investment. “It is a lifestyle investment,” says James Boyce, managing director of HPB Management. “People mustn’t invest in the bond as an investment in the literal sense. It is not a property- based investment.”

Some fractional ownership schemes do have investment potential, though. They enable investors to buy a share in a property which is later sold with the proceeds split equally. In the US, there are now $1m fractional schemes in premier ski resorts, but there are currently only 25 fractional resorts in Europe. Investors seeking affordable holiday homes are turning to fractional ownership, holiday bonds and buy-to-let deals as a more reliable alternative to timeshare.

A new scheme being offered by Bristol-based Seasons Holidays is for three-bedroom lodges on the St Piran resort, set in parkland on the Clowance Estate in Cornwall. These are being offered to eight fractional owners for £59,350 per owner – valuing each lodge at £474,800. After 16 years, each property will be put on the market, with each owner receiving a 12.5 per cent share of the sale price.

Owners are entitled to six weeks’ use of a lodge a year, but must also pay annual charges of £1,500. Alternatively, they can opt to lease back three high season weeks, and pay no fees – although they may achieve more than the fees by renting their weeks privately.

Wealthier investors could consider a collective buy-to-let scheme. PB Properties, a division of tour operator Powder Byrne, is offering three-bedroom apartments plus a share of the freehold in Swiss ski chalets in Laax, for a little under £1m. When owners are not using their piste-side apartments, they are automatically offered for rent to Powder Byrne skiers. All rental income is pooled and shared between the owners of available apartments, giving the potential for income even if an owner’s apartment is not let.

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/f926924c-f9ff-11dd-9daa-000077b07658.html


Linkback - You can own a little bit of a good thing
]]> 2/15/2009 1:56:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5369 5369
The airline is reducing capacity in the coming summer season from April and is slowing capital investment. It is also being forced to unwind several of its fuel hedging positions, which are incurring heavy losses in the face of the steep decline in the oil price.

The group is being hit like other leading European airlines by contracting demand from business travellers - its most lucrative customers - and from the sharp drop in air cargo volumes due to the weakness of the global economy.

Its short-haul domestic routes also performed poorly in the third quarter.

The airline said yesterday that the economic environment was continuing to deteriorate, which made it difficult to forecast its results for the 12 months only weeks before the end of the financial year at March 31. Its shares closed 25 cents or 3.2 per cent higher at €7.98.

Air France-KLM said it was aiming to remain in operating profit for the full year to March, but the level would "depend on economic developments, their impact on the passenger activity, and especially on cargo which is facing extremely difficult conditions". Last May it forecast an operating profit of about €1bn ($1.3bn).

Lufthansa, the rival German airline, said that it had reached agreement with its unions for 2,600 cargo ground staff to go on to shortened hours from March 1, cutting hours by 20 per cent. The airline has also started similar negotiations with its pilots.

Air Canada, which is also cutting jobs and capacity and has been raising capital to shore up its balance sheet, reported a bigger-thanexpected fourth-quarter loss and warned of further cost-cutting.

Air France-KLM fell to an operating loss of €194m from a profit of €311m a year ago in the third quarter from October to December. In the first nine months, operating profits declined by 69 per cent from €1.45bn to €445m.

The €288m negative impact of its fuel derivatives contracts helped to push Air France-KLM into a net loss of €505m in third quarter from a net profit of €139m a year earlier.

For the nine months it fell from a net profit of €1.29bn to a net loss of €309m including the negative impact of €649m from its fuel derivatives contracts.

The group said it was reducing capacity in the summer season from April to October by 2 per cent and was cutting capital expenditure by €1.2bn, including €600m in the coming financial year as part of the effort to conserve cash.

It is unwinding several of its fuel hedging positions leaving it 43 per cent hedged for 2009-10 and 20 per cent for each of the two subsequent years.

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/e2998e14-fa39-11dd-9daa-000077b07658.html?nclick_check=1


Linkback - Air France-KLM forced to cut capacity
]]> 2/15/2009 1:54:43 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5368 5368
Isle of Wight 7 nights £128

The offer is for seven nights' self-catering, based on four sharing, staying in one of six converted 19th century cottages at Mersley Farm, Newchurch. Book through Wightlink (0871 376 0013; www.wightlink.co.uk/greengetaways) and the price includes return car ferry crossing from Porstmouth or Lymington. Depart on March 6.

France 3 nights £183

Book two nights and stay a third free on a b & b basis, based on two sharing, at the Hôtel Le Cheval Blanc in Honfleur. The offer with Inntravel (01653 617910; www.inntravel.co.uk) includes one dinner and return Channel crossing from Dover. Depart on February 20.

Under £500

Ireland 7 nights £347

Save £89 on a week's self-catering in a cottage at Glenbeg Point Holiday Village on the coast of County Wexford. Book with Irish Ferries Holidays (08705 171717; www.irishferries.com) The price includes return ferry crossing from either Holyhead or Pembroke for travel from April 4-11.

US 7 nights £418

The offer, based on two adults and two children sharing, is for seven nights in Kissimmee, Orlando, Florida, staying at the Westgate Inn & Suites. Book with Complete Orlando (0800 294 8844; www.completeorlando.co.uk) for travel on February 23 from Gatwick.

Morocco 4 nights £445

The price, which includes return flights from Gatwick, is for b & b at the Dar Anika riad in Marrakesh. Book with Simpson Travel (020 8392 5861; www.simpsontravel.com) Must be booked by February 28.

Luxury for less

France 7 nights £849

Save £232 per adult and £116 per child on a seven-night stay at Chamonix Mont-Blanc, which includes return flights from Gatwick or Heathrow, all meals and ski pass. Book with Club Med (0845 367 6767; www.clubmed.co.uk) for departure on March 1.

India 7 nights £1,145

Save £275 on the Indian Experience Tour with Cox & Kings (020 7873 5000; www.coxandkings.co.uk/offers) The tour visits the "Golden Triangle" of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur with a night at a royal mansion in Rajasthan. The price includes flights, b & b and all excursions. Must be booked February 28.

Dubai 6 nights £1,860

Save £1,015 on six nights' half board at the Royal Mirage hotel with Carrier (0161 491 7660; www.carrier.co.uk) The offer is valid until September 20 for bookings made by February 28.

All offers are subject to availability. Price is per person and based on two sharing, unless otherwise stated.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/budgettravel/4612683/Holiday-deals-of-the-week.html


Linkback - Holiday deals of the week
]]> 2/15/2009 1:50:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5367 5367
Tourism is thought to earn the generals who run Burma £180m, with a significant proportion coming from the UK.

Many of the leading resorts are owned by state entities that lease properties to investors. Some resorts, it is alleged, have been built by slave labour and involved the forcible displacement of huge numbers of people from their homes with little or no compensation.

Tour operators contacted by the Observer such as Undiscovered Destinations and Bamboo Travel said they were unaware that resorts were on a banned list. Operators maintained that they believed it was important outsiders visited the troubled nation.

But Tricia Barnett, director of Tourism Concern, whose report on the Burmese travel industry will be published later this week, says: "It is the responsibility of tour operators to ensure that they ... do not provide financial benefits to the military dictatorship. Given the lack of transparency in Burma and the overlap between state- and private-owned enterprises, the best way to do this is to stop trading with Burma

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2009/feb/15/burma-tourism-blacklist


Linkback - Travel firms sell holidays to blacklisted resorts
]]> 2/15/2009 1:45:52 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5366 5366 We have 3 weeks in Gran Anfi and 1 week in Tauro, after travelling most of the world, the standard at Anfi is very high, and we look forward everytime to visit the resort.
For the last 5 years, I have been studying the very complex sale and AVC system, and here is my recommendation for new buyers.
Find a week or two in the resale market, we have used globaleresales and travelandleisure (both we can recommend) and then when suited make a contract at Anfi buying a week at the resort, then you also get the resale week/weeks into the points system (at full original price), then you have saved a lot of money compared to buying all directly at Anfi.
By this procedure, we have a lot of points and full flexibility within the AVC point system, you can upgrade/downgrade, borrow/push within 1 year each side, and we like this flexibility a lot. In 2009 we have been presented a new point system, wich does not suit our needs, but Anfi informs that everybody making new contracts will be moved to this system, including changing of contracts.

We have in our 4 years as owners:
Never had problems to get wanted weeks or exchanges at the resort.
Never had any complains about the communications or handling.
Never been disapointed about the quality or standards.

Only negative thing is the pushy sellers, but if you ignore their offers and let your pen stay in your pocket, then no problem.

Our last stay at Tauro, showed that Anfi still is doing a great job to finish their projects, and we where very positive surprised about our stay there, we will exchange our Gran weeks to Tauro when our kids are too old to travel with us.

Bottomline! if you use common sense, and dont accept the 1st and best offer from the sellers, then you will have some nice holidays at Anfi.

(sorry for my English, hope its not too bad)

HL
DK

Linkback - Happy Anfi owner
]]> 2/15/2009 10:09:47 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5365 5365
This is a long post but I thought I'd give complete account of our experience with CLC to let people know what to expect if, as us, it is their first encounter with such organisations. Also if you attend one of their presentations without understanding the sales tactics beforehand, you are opening yourself up to what could be a huge financial mistake.

So it was my turn to get the "congratulations, you've won a luxury holiday" phone call and on listening to the spiel from the young lady, I soon came to the conclusion that it was timeshare or some such thing.

Nonetheless "Michelle" was quite open and honest about it when I challenged her, so I went along with it and after confirming some basic "qualification" details she confirmed that I had indeed "won" a holiday, inclusive of flights for up to 4 people for a small admin charge of £29.50pp plus airport taxes. She gave me a freefone number and a reference and that was that.

Less than fifteen minutes later, "Michelle" phoned me back and after confirming my name said "congratulations, you've won a luxury holiday". I can't believe my luck I said, that's two holidays inside 15 minutes I've won!
"I'm sorry" she said quizically... then I thought to myself perhaps this lady isn't as young as she sounds and if early Dementia was setting in I really shouldn't give her a hard time! So I politely reminded her of our recent conversation and on repeating my reference back to her, she apologised, we had a little laugh and said our goodbye's.

Less than fifteen minutes later, "Michelle" phoned me back and after confirming my name said "congratulations, you've won a luxury holiday". "Michelle", I said calmly, "I'm beginning to feel a little uncomfortable now". "Are you stalking me or is it that you want me to invite you on my luxury holiday that I've now won 3 times in less than half-an-hour?". Anyway she said something about "damned computers", apologised again and rang off. I turned my phone off at this point!

So, I rang the freefone number on my way home from work, quoted my reference and once again answered the "qualification" questions upon which "Deena" confirmed that I had indeed "won" a holiday, inclusive of flights for up to 4 people for a small admin charge of £29.50pp plus airport taxes. I asked Deena if she new Michelle by any chance but she said not. Deena then went on to confirm the venue (Birmingham) for the presentation of my holiday vouchers and that they would be given to me at the end of a sales presentation that would last no longer than 2 hours. I confirmed we would attend and set the date and time with her.

Subsequently I received a letter that confirmed the time of the presentation along with "two" £25 vouchers that would be exchanged for a £25 shopping voucher of my choice. Hmmm... that doesn't sound like a very good deal I thought but assumed this would be resolved on the night.

So, we turned up at CLC's office in Birmingham, the lady inside reception greeted us politely, took our letter, confirmed our id's and gave us a clipboarded questionnaire to fill in that contained much the same "qualification" questions as before although these were a bit more specific in terms of income, etc.

Several minutes later, "Alan" arrived and greeted us (he would have arrived sooner but had obviously needed a quick smoke out the back of the office, if you get my meaning...) then showed us upstairs to an open "sales" area with around 10-15 sets of tables and reasonably comfortable chairs. We endured Alan's over-familiar idle chit-chat for about 5 minutes before the inevitable "test" questions started as he "subtly" attempted to get a handle on his new prospects.

Now perhaps I should come clean here, I am very experienced in observing body language and stress voice patterns and although not in sales myself (never have been), I'm also well versed in sales tactics. So I had a bit of an advantage over this guy which he was completely unaware of, save the fact that he said he felt I "was a bit sceptical". "That's an interesting statement" I said in a stern voice, "seeing as we've only just met". Ouch! I've never seen a jaw drop so quick and as he stammered through his next few sentences I received a sharp "behave yourself" kick to my ankle from my wife!

Soon Alan was saved by the arrival of a colleague, a guy straight out of the sales manual, slick suit, slick hair, greeted me with a palm down handshake and then immediately turned on the charm with my wife (who by the way is blonde and attractive but nobody's fool). This guy explained that tonight was all about a "Yes" or "No" decision to buying a timeshare (the detail of which Alan would explain) and this would be our only opportunity of buying into the scheme. "So", I said, "are you saying that if we say No tonight, you will turn us down if we contact you to buy one of your timeshares in the future?". His only answer to this was to turn his gaze back to my wife and stupidly repeat himself - verbatim - after which he immediately got up to leave us in Alan's "capable hands". My wife remarked to me and turning to Alan said, "did I just hear that guy say the same thing twice?" Alan, said "can I get you coffee, I'll get one of my ladies" - yes - seriously, he then gestured to one of his "ladies" who came and took our refreshments order.

Well I think you're getting the idea by now, these people are so transparent it is bordering on farcical. Alan continued by telling us about CLC's history, their impressive sales figures, the quality accreditations and industry associations, made me laugh when Alan's "manager" came over who I thought was going to offer a refill on the coffee (as she'd taken our order so efficiently before) only to explain that they were members of the OTE, and then saying in almost the same breath that CLC began the OTE!

We were then shown the video presented by Jenny Bond, who was even more transparent then the CLC staff and after that given a tour of the posters on the sales room walls! Thrilling! And so it went on...

Alan continued by filling in a questionnaire designed to "help him" put together the best package based on our needs (oh spare me!), basically asking how much we'd spent on holidays over the last 5 years, coming to a mean average and then projecting we would spend probably between £x and £y on holidays over the next 10 years.

All the while Alan was saying, "I know you want to know the price", "you'll be begging me for the price soon", "I can't give you the price now", ... Alan, we didn't ask for the price, we were really not bothered about the price, we were quite happy to wait until the end for the price.

So then boredom got the better of me and I asked a question about availability in peak season, i.e. the real chances of getting our choice of dates and our choice of resort / accommodation. Another manager came over to answer this who basically said that they never have availability problems because not all of their members go away at the same time. I acknowledged this but pointed out that Alan had already stated over 90% of their members were families with children and therefore that must mean there is a massive demand for dates during school holiday's (which would also apply to us). Well the answer took about 5 minutes to deliver and ended with her saying, "just look at my tan, I never have a problem with availability and I always take my kids". It was a fake tan.

Finally after trudging through the entire CLC resort brochure and most of the affiliated RCI worldwide brochure too before I think even Alan got bored, we get to the end of the presentation and the numbers start to get crunched. Three examples were painted in Rolf Harris style in thick black marker pen on a notepad, a simple holiday to Spain, an attractions tour in the States and a long haul to Australia, all progressively dearer holidays of course and with the financial basis on which the timeshare scheme worked, becoming more cost beneficial within the scheme.

But wait Alan, there's something missing in your costs? What can it be? Oh yes, of course you have to buy the caravan before you can go on holiday in it... and there we have it, £11,995 up front for membership that will allow us a ONE week holiday whenever we want, wherever we want, until the ripe old age of 105. Oh, plus £495 maintenance per annum so that's another £27,645 at todays prices (for 57 years) or let's say more realistically, about £17k in total if you took holidays say for the next 10 years.

Okay so you can sell your membership any time and recoup the cost, hmmm... can you... really... as each year goes by don't you think it's value will depreciate?

Okay then, what about a trial membership for £3,995, six weeks to be taken over the next 34 months and no maintenance fee. 34 months, well surprise, surprise! So although they are selling timeshare, they are keeping the term low enough so it can't be classed as timeshare (under current regulations) and therefore, should your "on the night" decision be "Yes", you would not qualify for a statutory cooling off period whereby you could change your mind. Alan, do you think we are stupid?

That aside, £3,995 divided by 6 is £665 per week or more likely (being tied to out of school term time) 3 x 2 week holidays at £1330 each, plus flights and car hire maybe, for a family of 4 lets say another £1000? Are you really saying this is cheaper CLC? Let's not forget, you can't sell your 34 month trial membership (or maybe you can but who would want to buy it).

But what about the added benefit of unlimited short breaks, prices starting at around £25 in the low season. Well I'm sorry but I get emails all the time for the likes of De Vere group offering me a rooms considerably cheaper than that!

Now I'm not saying this won't work for some people, but my theory is this will be limited to couples, with no school age kids, who spend more than £5k per year on holidays, i.e. very few of us!

So there we are, decision time, either a "Yes", or a "No" and that's your lot as Mr Slick had said. Mrs Fake-Tan comes to see us to clinch the deal. Alan takes up his strategic position just in peripheral vision off my right shoulder, and they go in for the kill.

So I point out that because Alan's masterful financial wizardy was in fact complete nonsense, because he'd actually got his basic sums wrong and the numbers would never stand up to scrutiny, because we hadn't been given anywhere near enough information to make a decision, because there was no written information apart from the his fat black marker pen scribbles on a notepad, because I was very concerned about their ability to actually deliver the package as described, because there was no cooling off period for the trial membership and because we had to make up our minds there and then, they had succeeded establishing zero credibility with us and in fact, were completely naive if they really thought this was a good deal.

Well the last comment really did it. "I'll take that as a no then" stormed Mrs Fake-Tan and oh Alan, how your attitude changed in that instant, how the attitude of your "ladies" changed with yours too. I am sorry for laughing at you!

It's fair to say that Alan was not a happy man, and no Alan, I am not an undercover journalist! Just someone who your marketing people called and was told they had "won a luxury holiday".

And as Mrs Fake-Tan and yourself escorted us to where our holiday vouchers were waiting, and you reluctantly thrust them into my hand, I'm sorry but I just couldn't resist the temptation of dropping that envelope in the bin next to the door as we left, although I did take out the "one" £25 pound M&S voucher of course, the only thing of any real value from the whole evening!

So in conclusion, if you get one of these calls, by all means go with an open mind, but do your research, don't succumb to the hype and slick sales patter, recognise this for what it is, a presentation delivered by people who are paid solely on what they sell, they will try every trick in the book, make sure you fully understand the financial proposition and that if you do sign up, consider that you are likely to find it hard to back out if you change your mind.

I don't doubt the resorts are good quality, but you can get excellent accommodation when you want, where you want without too much effort and you don't need to fork out a small fortune up front.

Be prepared. The moment you enter their sales theatre you must be ready for "psychological warfare" ... and they don't take prisoners. The one overriding message is, and I need to say this loudly... DO NOT - I REPEAT - DO NOT SIGN UP AT THE PRESENTATION! Their demand for your decision is unscrupulous sales practice, the only reason they use it is because they know if they let you go, you will work the numbers and see that it is not the deal they say it is.

The only way this practice will stop is if the punters, that is you and me, vote with our feet, EVERY TIME. If enough people take this approach, CLC's sales fall and they will have to revise their approach. In my experience, any company that I have ever come into contact with (and believe me that runs into thousands) that employed a dubious sale method, were selling an equally dubious product although, once again, I am not knocking the product, just the way it is being sold to the unsuspecting public. For the right people, under the right circumstances, the scheme may work. I don't doubt the quality of the resorts, they wouldn't last long if they were misrepresenting those aspects. But I do have serious doubts about the financial model, the availability and choice of resorts and the resaleability claims that they make.

Demand paperwork that properly demonstrates their proposition. Demand time to consider their plan. Demand time to review and ask questions after the presentation. Demand independant verification of their claims on availability, maintenance fee increases, resale values. Demand a proper explanation of your right to cancel.

If you are inclined to say "Yes", make it a condition of the sale that you get a photocopy of the salesperson's notes made during the presentation, signed and dated by the salesperson or better still, their manager. Ask them this and I'd be willing to bet they would be showing you the door rather than where to sign! Why? Because if they did, you would have the evidence to prove malpractice or misselling if (and when) you change your mind.

Beware, don't be fooled, read these posts, attend a presentation armed with this knowledge and get your "free" holiday. But DON'T sign up immediately, tell them you will consider their plan and make up your mind on your terms, not theirs. If they don't like it, they are just underlining everything I say here and telling you to walk away themselves. If you still say "Yes", then don't blame CLC or anyone else if you suffer any financial consequences.

This is a long winded account, but for those who agree to attend such presentations, I hope this will furnish you with the knowledge you'll need to deal with the situation and not be railroaded into making a bad decision.

All the best and good luck.

kinL.

Linkback - Club La Costa presentations - the real story
]]> 2/14/2009 7:04:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5364 5364 We have a one bedroomed apartment.
Any info and photos would be great
Thank you.



Linkback - First time at Monte Anfi
]]> 2/13/2009 4:56:45 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5363 5363 Has anyone heard of this company, are they genuine?

Linkback - Essential Travel Club
]]> 2/13/2009 1:11:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5362 5362
Paul Flaningan, a Southwest Airlines Inc. spokesman, says the pilot of the Boeing 737 turned off the engine and landed Thursday at McCarran International Airport. Flight 273 was bound for MacArthur Airport in New York's Long Island.

McCarran spokesman Chris Jones says the plane taxied to a terminal under its own power. He says the plane was airborne for about 20 minutes.

Flaningan says none of the 116 passengers was injured.

A Southwest flight last week landed safely in Las Vegas after passengers smelled an odor created by an electrical problem.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gdFehzqpv5i-WJ6iFr6DrB6C9UWwD96ADSOGF


Linkback - NY-bound plane returns to Vegas when engine flames
]]> 2/13/2009 7:11:59 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5361 5361
Timeshare rentals can pay off very quickly but people who are looking to purchase one are often victims of scams, being scammed is a nightmare for many people. Don’t let this happen to you! Here are a few things that many scammers have used in order to try to trick you out of your hard earned money.

The first thing is to read all of the fine print very carefully. When most people are selling timeshare there is a sales presentation that they have to go through before finalizing the sale with you. With many of these sales presentations a prize is included as an incentive for purchasing the timeshare, this is where a lot of timeshare rentals companies will try to trick you, the prize is an extra incentive for a reason, you should not have to pay for it. Many companies will try to add in an “incentive” that actually will cost you money, if it isn’t for purchasing the incentive they will try to charge you extra for delivery of the prize. Be very aware of the fine print under the contract.

Another way that timeshare rental companies try to scam people is through making the purchase the day they are given the sales presentation. Any legitimate timeshare rental company knows that purchasing a timeshare is a very serious decision and that it takes time to think about the purchase. If you are being asked to decide the day you are given the sales presentation on the timeshare you should walk away immediately. The people who do this are often people who are trying to run away with your money, you most likely will not get the timeshare, and won’t be able to find the person who sold you the timeshare.

Timeshares are very big investments, if you are very serious about possibly purchasing time at a timeshare you may want to bring a lawyer with you. Lawyers understand the fine print and understand what should be in the contract, they can help you decide whether or not the timeshare is a legitimate deal. If you can’t bring a lawyer with you bring the contract home with you and allow a lawyer to look it over for you, this can only help you and assure you that your purchase is worthwhile and a safe investment.

Charles Joseph provides information on exciting vacation rental recommendations, Timeshare rentals and detailed resort information to make vacation selection easier. To know more about Timeshares, Hawaii timeshare rentals and Timeshare resales visit http://www.redweek.com

http://www.bestsyndication.com/?q=node/24129


Linkback - Timeshare Rentals Can Often Be Scams
]]> 2/13/2009 7:10:35 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5360 5360
State police said all 44 passengers and 4 crew on board the Newark to Buffalo flight were killed. One person on the ground was reported to have also died.

The twin-prop Continental Connection Flight 3407 came down 10 miles (16km) from Buffalo airport at 2210 (0310GMT).

TV footage showed the wreckage of the plane and a house engulfed in flames.

State police spokeswoman Rebecca Gibbons said that of the 48 people on the plane, "there were no survivors."

Dave Bissonet, the emergency control director in Clarence, the suburb of Buffalo where the plane crashed, said one person on the ground had been killed.

Two people not on the plane were taken to hospital with minor injuries, CNN said.

Continental Express flight 3407, operated by Colgan Air, had reportedly been delayed on departure, and was approaching the airport in Buffalo two hours later than scheduled.

Twelve houses near the crash site were evacuated, because of concerns about the fuel left on the crashed Bombardier Dash 8 Q400 aircraft.

"Right now I'm thinking the worst," said Chris Kausner, who said his sister Elise was on the flight.

"And I'm thinking about the fact that my mother has to fly home from Florida and what I'm going to tell my two sons."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/7887555.stm


Linkback - Plane crash in NY state kills 49
]]> 2/13/2009 7:08:18 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5359 5359
Las Vegas attorney Barry Levinson last month filed separate lawsuits over the deals involving timeshare operators Consolidated Resorts Inc. and Summer Bay Resorts.

In one suit, a Nye County couple claims they were exploited in violation of Nevada’s Elder Abuse law.

Robert and Ellen Gooden claim personnel at Summer Bay Resorts were supposed to be helping them sell their interest in a timeshare condominium project, but then tricked them into buying another project they had no interest in.

Summer Bay operates the Desert Club timeshare project in Las Vegas.

"While in the process of signing the necessary paperwork to effectuate the sale of plaintiffs’ interest in the subject condominium project, an employee of the ... defendants slipped in papers unbeknownst to plaintiffs which consisted of a purchase agreement for the acquisition of additional property," the lawsuit alleges.

The suit says the Goodens didn’t know they had agreed to buy another property until they received a credit card receipt in the mail noting the purchase; and they say they had been asked to buy the subject property a year earlier at a lower price but were not interested in it.

The plaintiffs say they were the victims of fraud, deceptive trade practices and were not advised of their right to rescind the deal until it went into effect.

The couple, who were ages 60 and 67 at the time of the transaction, also allege Desert Club and Summer Bay Resorts violated the state Elder Abuse law.

They say the sales person they were dealing with "took advantage of plaintiffs’ advanced age and lack of commercial sophistication to perpetuate an act of fraud." They say the defendants are liable for "damages for injuries suffered by older or vulnerable persons as a result of abuse, neglect or exploitation."

Officials with Summer Bay Resorts and Desert Club could not immediately be reached for comment.

***

The second case involves Consolidated Resorts, a Las Vegas company that operates Las Vegas timeshares Tahiti Village, Tahiti and Club de Soleil; along with timeshare resorts in Florida and Hawaii.

Timeshare buyer Phillip Ramos, who lives in Clark County, alleges in the lawsuit that the only reason he bought an interest in two timeshare condominiums in Las Vegas is because he was assured by a Consolidated official that he could transfer the times he had purchased for use at other timeshare locations, specifically in Hawaii.

But after buying an interest in the Las Vegas timeshares, Ramos was told there was a lack of availability of timeshare locations in his desired travel destination of Hawaii.

The complaint alleges breach of contract, fraud and the use of deceptive trade practices by Consolidated. The suit also claims Ramos was not advised of his right to rescind the contract and did not discover the alleged misrepresentations until after the contract took effect.

Consolidated Resorts has not yet responded to the allegations and its policy is not to comment on litigation.

***

Separately, a lawsuit pitting the Palazzo resort on the Las Vegas Strip against Consolidated has been quietly dropped.

The parent companies of the Palazzo and its shopping mall, the Shoppes at the Palazzo, filed suit last month in Clark County District Court against Consolidated, claiming it failed to open marketing booths at the Palazzo resort and owed the Palazzo millions of dollars in rent.

Attorneys for the Palazzo moved Jan. 14, six days after the suit was filed, to have it dismissed. There was no explanation for the dismissal and officials with both companies have declined to comment on the suit.

http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/feb/11/couple-sues-timeshare-company-exploitation/


Linkback - Couple sues for elder abuse, exploitation
]]> 2/13/2009 7:06:13 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5358 5358
“People are still interested in travelling over the coming months, but we’ve seen they’re spending more time searching, comparing and discussing vacation decisions with travelling companions,” said Kayak.com’s executive vice president for marketing and distribution, Brian Harniman.

He added: “The good news is that deals on winter and spring getaways are more plentiful than we’ve seen in recent years. Airlines are launching winter fare sales that are lasting through spring. Hotels are lowering prices and adding value components such as free nights and vouchers for entertainment and dining.”

In a recent survey that Kayak.com conducted, respondents reported that price is now more important to them than location.

Additionally, the survey showed that 76 per cent of those completing the survey said they planned to travel this winter. Fifty per cent said that they would take fewer trips during this current winter season due to the impact of the credit crunch. Price and value were rated by 77 per cent of the respondents as the biggest factors in deciding whether they will take a winter break.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/consumers-show-interest-in-travel-while-concerned-about-cost-5634185.html


Linkback - Interest shown in travel but concerned about cost
]]> 2/13/2009 7:04:20 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5357 5357
The Signature Sponsorship list includes: Group RCI, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, American Express, International Cruise and Excursions, Inc. (ICE), Interval International, Holiday Systems International (HSI), Textron Financial Corporation, Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., VacationGuard, Inc., and Whirlpool Corporation.

The convention is slated to take place from March 2 to April 2. It is an annual event that gathers timeshare and vacation ownership companies for updates and developments in the industry. The convention also offers companies a chance to build new networks.

“We are grateful for the 2009 Signature Sponsors whose support enables us to continue to bring cutting-edge programs and high-quality events,” said ARDA President and CEO Howard C. Nusbaum.

For more information about this timeshare event, contact Bob Craycraft at 202-371-6700 or e-mail at brcraycraft@arda.org

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20090212293/Latest/ARDA-announces-Sponsors-for-2009-Timeshare-Conference.html


Linkback - ARDA announces Sponsors for 2009 Conference
]]> 2/13/2009 7:02:33 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5356 5356
I have been phoned tonight by Reallocations Company who say they have been forwarded my name and address by my Greek resort as a thankyou for paying our membership fees for several years on time. We can have a RCI resort holiday for 2 weeks 6 people for £249.00 to be taken in the next 3 years and she has given me a free phone number to phone her back.
Has anyone had any experience of this company or is it another scam.

Trevor

Linkback - RCI Reallocations
]]> 2/12/2009 8:01:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5355 5355
JIN QIAO INTERNATIONAL GARDEN

Tucked in the heart of the city, Jin Qiao International Garden provides the perfect setting from which to discover the historical city of Beijing. Tour the Ming Dynasty Tombs and Summer Palace, stroll along the Great Wall of China, and explore the Forbidden City, Lama Temple and Temple of Heaven. Rich in cultural heritage and hopping with the excitement of any large city, Beijing will keep you busy every day of your getaway.

When you check-in for the evening, you'll be surrounded by luxurious amenities including a selection of restaurants and bars offering live entertainment and a state-of-the-art health club with an on-site personal trainer.

ABSOLUTE AT Q SIGNATURE SAMUI PENINSULA SPA AND RESORT

Unwind on the palm-fringed beaches of Koh Samui and soak up the tropical sun when you stay at Absolute at Q Signature Samui Peninsula Spa and Resort on the southeastern seaboard of Thailand. The distinct ambiance and architecture enhances the spacious and elegant living spaces, and each accommodation has a sea-facing private balcony or terrace from which to watch the sun set over the horizon.

Relax at the well-appointed spa housed in traditional Thai-style pavilions on-site, or venture away from the resort where you'll find a marine nature park, a monkey show and an elephant trekking experience.

ARAYABURI BOUTIQUE RESORT

Escape the crowds on the white sand beach of Samrong Bay at Arayaburi Boutique Resort. Surrounded by lush natural gardens, the resort offers plenty of room to relax with a free-form swimming pool, traditional Thai massage available poolside and a beachfront restaurant that looks out over the crystal clear blue waters.

Located on a secluded hillside on the island of Koh Samui, this well-kept secret offers stunning views of the bay, mountains and nearby islands. Step away from the resort and you'll be met with shopping opportunities, more idyllic beaches and exciting nightlife.

ABSOLUTE AT NIRVANA PLACE

Absolute at Nirvana Place is ideally situated between the two famous beaches of Jomtien and Pattaya overlooking the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Siam. In the distance, bustling streets and the city skyline highlight the excitement and entertainment waiting right around the corner.

The luxurious accommodation choices at Absolute at Nirvana Place each offer their own Thai style and ambience. Large, open kitchens and spacious living areas create a sanctuary of elegance, tranquility and privacy in this tropical paradise.

ABSOLUTE AT VIEW TALAY HOLIDAYS

Set among twelve acres of landscaped gardens and wide, palm-lined roads, this unique resort offers the quintessential getaway experience. Enjoy your days lounging by the oversized communal pool or explore the clubhouse, which houses a restaurant, gymnasium, sauna and pool bar.

If you can convince yourself to break away from this luscious retreat, you'll find a beach and local entertainment to keep you busy nearby.

ABSOLUTE AT TRI TRANG BEACH RESORT

It's easy to relax and rejuvenate when your seaside escape is just steps from the golden sands of Tri Trang Beach and the warm water of the Andaman Sea. Situated in a secluded and picturesque location, Absolute at Tri Trang Beach Resort enjoys isolated tranquility while the attractions of Patong Beach beckon nearby.

From fishing, sailing and scuba diving to golfing and hiking, this tropical paradise offers a peaceful respite far from the stresses of everyday life.

ABSOLUTE SEA PEARL BEACH RESORT

Conveniently located only a few steps from the golden sand beach and turquoise water, Absolute Sea Pearl Beach Resort welcomes guests with an extensive range of in-room amenities and a touch of local craftsmanship in every accommodation.

Within a short walking distance of the resort you will find many restaurants catering to every taste, massage parlors and market stalls selling locally crafted items. Once night falls, the main streets are a glow of neon lights with bars, nightclubs and cabaret shows on nearly every corner.




Linkback - More new resorts
]]> 2/12/2009 7:19:48 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5354 5354
These consist of 4 x 2-bed units, 1 x 1-bed unit and 2 x studio units; all of these are in trust.

As was originally brought up on here by Tom (Mavo) this can only be good news for DRI as it is yet more "local" availability for the aging membership of the club.

Though I personally would like to see some new localities added this is definitely a move in the right direction.




Linkback - Cromer
]]> 2/11/2009 10:53:27 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5353 5353 “Hi, sorry if this has been asked before, i got a call from Timeshare Sales Centre about my timeshare anyone know these, also does anyone know anything about E Business frozen merchant account these people say they use, any info gratefully accepted thanks”

Time Share Sales Centre timesharesalescentre.com
registered Fuengirola Dec 08. The site uses a resale list copied from class-properties.com (registered Malaga Mar 08) – and it must be years old because it shows Sun terra Points for sale. Sites are so similar that it must be the same people. See www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=9906

You clearly have not read anything before posting.
Up-front payment = scam.
How did they have your contact details or the fact that you have a timeshare?
Why is their resales list a fiction?

You do not say so but presumably they have sold your timeshare and want a refundable deposit which will be kept safe in the 'frozen merchants account'. Not true. Not safe. They made it up.

How can they have sold a timeshare which you have not asked them to sell?
How can they have sold any timeshare for what will undoubtedly be a stupidly high figure in today’s climate?


Linkback - Timeshare Sales Centre
]]> 2/11/2009 5:28:55 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5352 5352
“Ancillary revenue” is the airline term for all the fees and services you used to get when you bought a ticket, but now have to buy separately. Baggage fees, food on board, ticket change fees, pillows, extra legroom — just anything airlines can dream up to sell.

And since airline dreams do sometimes come true, all that stuff is selling: At jetBlue Airways Corp, ancillary revenue doubled in 2008 to about $350 million. JetBlue expects another 30% increase this year, Chief Executive David Barger told the Raymond James Growth Airline Conference on Thursday.

AirTran Airways Inc., collected $77 million in ancillary revenue in 2005, according to CEO Robert Fornaro. That grew to $233 million last year. This year AirTran expects customers to fork over more than $300 million for ancillary services.

http://blogs.wsj.com/middleseat/2009/02/09/airlines-charging-more-baggage-fees-refreshment/?mod=googlenews_wsj


Linkback - Airlines Look to Fees for a Financial Edge
]]> 2/10/2009 9:52:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5351 5351
All you have to do is tour a timeshare resort that just opened on the island.

You're intrigued and find yourself in a luxury resort seated next to a sales representative trying to persuade you to buy a unit at the property. He promises a deal you can get only for that day.

But wait before you sign any papers. Never make a decision in a day. And make sure before you spend thousands on a vacation spot that you're going to use it for years to come.

Timeshares, in which consumers typically purchase a piece of a vacation property for the right to use it once a year, are growing in popularity. Industry leaders describe the purchase as a good option for many people.

About 4.7 million households owned timeshare vacation properties last year, compared with 4.4 million in 2006. But some customers buy a timeshare only to realize that it's not the thing for them. And the properties can be difficult to sell once you own one, industry experts say.

There are three main types of timeshares: fixed weeks, floating weeks and point systems.

A fixed week is better for people who like to go to the same place at the same time every year.

The floating week is good for people who may want to trade their time with someone who has a timeshare at a different location. The point system, where you use points to go to various places, is the most flexible and best for those who like to try different locations.

There are other factors to consider, such as yearly maintenance and penalty fees if you don't use the timeshare enough. Some properties charge fees for repairs if the resort is damaged. Then there's the price of a timeshare.

How do you really know whether what the sales representative is offering is the best deal? The average timeshare costs about $15,000, with $500 in annual maintenance fees, according to American Resort Development Association.

Don't feel as if you have to book the day you visit a resort timeshare. While some deals are available only for a day, you can usually get savings a week or even months later, experts said. You also can ask to leave a deposit and give yourself a night to consider.

If you decide to buy, then later want to sell, you can advertise online for free or for a listing charge of $10 to $35 at resale sites such as TUG Timeshare Marketplace, RedWeek.com, MyResortNetwork.com and Transaction Realty.

You also can try to rent your week to other vacationers or donate it to a charity. Some companies might also allow you to deed the property back to them, although fees can range from $500 to $4,000.

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sfl-flznewstouse0208sbfeb08,0,6535516.story


Linkback - Snap decisions can be costly
]]> 2/10/2009 9:50:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5350 5350
Banish any thoughts that time-share developers are immune from the economic downdraft. Marketing of new time-shares is being drastically cut. Time-share financing is extremely tough. Securitization is nonexistent. A kind of commercial financing called inventory loans, necessary as a bridge between development and securitization, is now moribund. In December, Textron Inc., inventory lending's driving force, said it was exiting the field. In 2007, Textron Financial Corp. provided more than $800 million in new funding to vacation ownership.

Time-share sales in 2007 totaled $10.6 billion, according to a study by Ernst & Young LLP. Through the third quarter of 2008, says Howard Nusbaum, CEO of industry group American Resort Development Association, sales were "on par with 2007, maybe 5 to 10% ahead." He estimates last year's sales were down 10% to 15% "at most." Scott Burlingame, editor and publisher of trade magazine Vacation Ownership World, believes that with "the bottom dropping out in the fourth quarter," 2008 figures could be down 25%.

This year is expected to be much worse. The biggest player, Wyndham Vacation Ownership, announced in December that it would cut 4,000 jobs, wiping out sales and marketing programs. That should reduce sales 40% this year, to $1.2 billion, says Wyndham Worldwide Corp.

Wyndham and Marriott International Inc., the second-largest developer, appear diversified enough to weather the downturn. Ditto for the time-share units of other chains, including Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc., Hilton Hotels Corp. and Walt Disney Co. But the fate of others is less certain. Privately held Westgate Resorts, owned by Central Florida Investments Inc., has already cut staff by almost 40%.

Moody's Investors Service downgraded publicly traded Bluegreen Corp.'s debt in late November and warned of the growing possibility of default. This followed the collapse of an acquisition play on Bluegreen by privately held Diamond Resorts International, which had bought another rival, The Former Company Corp., for $750 million in 2007. Lack of financing cratered the deal, Bluegreen said. That may be true enough. However, Boca Raton, Fla.-based Bluegreen now trades below $2 a share. Diamond's nonbinding offer in July was for $15 a share.

Time-share securitization has been around since the mid-'90s. A company underpins a new development by selling new time-shares, usually 20% down, with the rest financed. Revenue tends to come in monthly. Dozens are necessary to finance each room. So a developer bundles future time-share receivables, which secure funding for development.

In the latest Standard & Poor's update, outstanding securitized time-share transactions stood at $2.85 billion in October, down from a peak of $3.04 billion in July. S&P noted delinquencies topped 4.2%, with defaults at a still-low 0.70%. Both are rising, but not to the degree in other lending classes.

How come? Some possibilities: Time-shares are often nonrecourse loans, meaning a buyer is personally on the hook for the entire amount, whether he walks or not. Under the terms of securitization, a developer can substitute nondelinquent assets, so the pool isn't fixed like subprime. And there are the economics of the market. The average time-share costs $19,500 but is immediately worth half that in the resale market. Online secondary market site Sell My Timeshare Now reports the average offers last year ran between $4,000 and $5,000. So hard-pressed owners either suck it up and make payments, knowing at least they'll get a vacation week out of it, or jettison shares for huge losses to escape their contracts.

Nusbaum says the secondary market is all over the place in terms of professionalism and likens it to "where used autos were in the 1960s." A spokesman for Sell My Timeshare Now counters that secondary sales are surprisingly robust, even if owners take a beating. That may help keep defaults down, but it doesn't bode well for new sales. New inventory remains high, one analyst says. But even an unrelenting sales pitch may not be enough to convince a beleaguered consumer that it's worth forking over $20,000 for a week's vacation

http://www.reuters.com/article/dealAtoms/idUSCH1150234331420090207


Linkback - Time Bomb?
]]> 2/10/2009 9:48:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5349 5349
The Office of Fair Trading said people had already lost hundreds of pounds to bogus timeshare resale companies, with some victims also conned into paying thousands of pounds to obtain holiday club membership on the basis of false promises.

The group said timeshare owners often received unsolicited telephone calls from a bogus timeshare resale company, in which it was claimed that a definite buyer had been found for their timeshare, and was willing to make an above market offer.

But once consumers had made upfront payments of several hundred pounds to cover so-called administration costs or land registry changes, they were told the sale had fallen through.

Victims were then asked to attend meetings with another buyer, often described as a corporate buyer, to discuss a new offer.

But these meetings often took place abroad, at Spanish resorts or other holiday destinations, where the consumer was made to sit through a high pressure sales presentation, lasting several hours.

In the presentation they were offered membership of a bogus holiday club in exchange for their timeshare and an additional payment of several thousand pounds.

However, the membership often fails to provide the range, price and quality of holidays that were promised by the salesmen.

Mike Haley, OFT director of consumer protection, said: "As the public has become more aware of the dangers of bogus holiday clubs and the tricks used, so the scammers have changed their tactics.

"Increasingly timeshare owners are being targeted with the bait of a fictitious timeshare resale used as a means of hooking consumers into buying a bogus holiday club membership."

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5jhyERovA7BB8HZKtBrmH2CvNPn8g


Linkback - Timeshare owners targeted by scam
]]> 2/10/2009 9:45:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5348 5348
Dieter, it's part of a teenager's job description to scupper any plans for wholesome family fun. But the good news is that this hasn't put off the more daring adventure operators, some of whom are announcing teen-only departures for the first time.

These include The Adventure Company (0845 609 1137 adventurecompany.co.uk), which is featuring a rather unusual teenagers' horseback tour of Cappadocia in Turkey, which takes in the underground city of Derinkuyu, starting at £579 per person (excluding flights).

Meanwhile, the thoughtful people at Families Worldwide (0845 051 4567; familiesworld wide.co.uk) are offering a selection of "post-exam stress-busting trips" for teens to destinations including Tanzania and Peru.

They've done all the hard work: all you need to do is turn up, complete with your frazzled teenager, and enjoy the ride.

Join small groups or opt for tailor-made trips; I'm loving the High Atlas Adventure (which costs less than £800 per person for eight days, including flights), walking and mule-riding in the mountains and spending the night in remote Berber villages.

And not an Xbox in sight.

http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/katy-holland-exciting-holidays-for-teenagers-1603723.html


Linkback - Exciting holidays for teenagers
]]> 2/10/2009 9:43:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5347 5347
The routes that are being cancelled include those from Birmingham, Bristol, Bournemouth, East Midlands, Liverpool and Luton airports in the UK.

In the past year, Ryanair has defied the economic downturn, adding 23 new routes from the UK, and cites Poland’s “unacceptable increase in navigation charges” as the reason for the move.

“These charges, which have increased by almost 1,000 per cent, make many Polish routes unattractive for passengers and directly impact on Ryanair’s ability to offer the low fares which passengers’ demand, especially during the current economic climate,” a Ryanair spokesman said.

“Ryanair continuously revises its route network in order to offer our passengers the lowest fares across 26 countries,” the spokesman added.

Since Poland joined the EU in 2004, passenger numbers at the country’s airports have increased markedly. In 2003, the six largest airports in Poland - Gdansk, Katowice, Kraków, Poznan Warsaw and Wroclaw - handled under seven million passengers. In 2008, that number had brown to nearly 20 million.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/ryanair-reduces-number-of-poland-routes-5634183.html


Linkback - Ryanair reduces number of Poland routes
]]> 2/10/2009 9:41:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5346 5346
They promised me I could use my 4 weeks (£349 was the cost I was told, charged an extra £30) in blocks of two weeks at no cost - turns out that's a bit of a lie - a £549 lie. Promised all resorts are 5 star - there's an interesting one in Gozo, Malta where the owner Sam Vella seems to charge away at patrons credit cards (numerous postings on Trip Advisor) - doesn't look like that's even nearly true. And now I'm reading that even if you book one resort, they often cancel it just before you go?

I've been trying to speak to someone to confirm they have received my written complaint (which they insisted upon) but they're not the most communicative group after they've taken your hard earned cash, and them some.

[:(!]

Linkback - The Gift Company
]]> 2/10/2009 4:25:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5345 5345
Just been for the evaluation weekend at Whitbarrow as one of the winners for the Club Season Green Week and really enjoyed the experience.

I am now looking at upgrading to a Red week or maybe two with Seasons or for alternatives but through my company.

Being magnanimous I will say it is for client and staff motivation whilst utilising certain benefits myself.

Is there any users out there that have done this with their business?
What are the tax benefits or implications?

I would also appreciate feedback for:
1. Seasons
2. Alternative schemes

Thanks

Linkback - Timeshare through your business
]]> 2/10/2009 3:58:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5344 5344 Has anybody heard of them? They say they are located on resort at Benal Beach and the same old thing. Fee of 600 euros via credit card and they have a sale due to complete in 3 weeks. I cannot find out anything about them.
Many Thanks
Lorraine

Linkback - End Vacations
]]> 2/10/2009 2:02:28 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5343 5343
Linkback - tenerife royal gardens
]]> 2/10/2009 1:13:50 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5342 5342 Guess what it is:



5 points for a correct answer

Answer to be revealed Sunday 15th Feb unless correctly guessed beforehand.



Linkback - guess what it is - 9th Feb
]]> 2/9/2009 9:54:32 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5341 5341





Linkback - Weather in Gran Canaria
]]> 2/8/2009 1:21:27 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5340 5340
This week a rival operator, Pontins, announced a £50m improvement package for its UK operations, and the creation of 2,000 new jobs. "We're looking forward to a fabulous future," says Ian Smith, chief executive of Ocean Parcs, which now owns Pontins. To predict how likely that is, let's briefly go back a lifetime. In 1936, Butlin opened the first of his low-cost, high-intensity holiday complexes around the UK shores, at Skegness in Lincolnshire. He believed workers and their families would come for fun to British resorts, regardless of the weather.

Besides the launch of Butlins, 1936 proved a significant year. George V died, uttering (or so it is widely believed) last words that famously condemned the Sussex resort of Bognor Regis to alliterative ignominy. In the long term, Bognor was indeed buggered because of another 1936 innovation, just up the road in Gatwick: the world's first modern air terminal. The Sussex airport is now the country's leading escape-route for British holidaymakers.

The holiday camps did get their time in the sun for a few decades after the war. The red and blue knights (Sir Billy Butlin in the Redcoat corner, Sir Fred Pontin with the Bluecoats) thrived on the British appetite for travel, even if the closest approximation to paradise was no further than the nearest entertainment compound. But Spain held a trump card over Skegness: sunshine. By the mid-1980s more Brits were taking their summer holiday abroad than at home. Since then, the robust growth in holiday-taking has been focused firmly on Abroad, thanks to falling fares and rising disposable income.

Pontins' big bet is that wary holidaymakers will switch en masse from packages in the Mediterranean and Florida to British holiday centres. The investment plans were welcomed by a travel industry desperate for good news. The people who fill the 2,000 new vacancies should also be happy, though domestic tourism endures chronically poor pay (previous Butlins owners lobbied against the national minimum wage). The Government is delighted by evidence of, if I may, the yellow sandcastles of economic recovery. And longer term, anything that persuades us to swap the financial uncertainties of the Continent for the climatic unpredictability of Britain will narrow the £19bn tourism deficit – the excess of our spending abroad over what foreign visitors bring in.

A mass movement away from Palma Nova and towards Prestatyn Sands is an appealing notion, but in the high-pressure Dodgems that the present travel industry resembles, some big risks remain.

The first is that millions of Brits are biting the euro-bullet and booking overseas packages despite the puny pound: this week our biggest tour operator, Tui, said bookings are on target even with prices up 11 per cent. Next, some travellers may decide to holiday at home – literally, perhaps making day-trips in the surrounding area. Low cost for them, low revenue for Britain. Third, if the UK fails to deliver value to holidaymakers who are resting their passports, they won't stay around next year. .

Doubtless some middle-class people will trade down from Club Mark Warner or Center Parcs to Pontins or Butlins this summer. If they escape the 21st-century equivalent of dark, satanic mills, and are at a loose end in Bognor Regis, they could always visit the cottage close to the present Butlins where William Blake wrote "Jerusalem". Until Pontins or others build a holiday Jerusalem in England's green and pleasant land, at least we could rename the Dodgems "Chariots of Fire" in Blake's honour.

Now is the winter of our discontented overseas visitors

Even by Thursday, four days after the first batch of heavy snowfall, the British Airways arrivals board at Heathrow Terminal 5 made glum reading. Nine long-haul inbound flights were cancelled – two from South Africa, five from North America, plus Hong Kong and Dubai. While plenty of BA passengers had a miserable time due to the messy sclerosis of airport chaos, the airline does not deserve undue criticism. Indeed, BA recovered remarkably fast from having one-third of its fleet of long-haul aircraft, amounting to 33 wide-bodied Boeings, diverted from Heathrow to airports from Scotland to Portugal. Our national airline, along with BMI, Virgin, easyJet and FlyBe, was clobbered once again by the UK's transportational inadequacy.

By now, most of the affected passengers – perhaps half a million of them – will have got where they needed to be. But I fret about what our collective response to inclement weather says about the UK.

Airport operators in Amsterdam, Paris and Frankfurt will have watched gleefully as London, the gateway to Europe, shut down again.

Many of those stranded were foreign visitors due to head home after a weekend in the capital. So I took a look at how happy their involuntary extra day in London will have proved. In terms of transport it was dismal. The capital's entire bus system shut down, along with parts of the Tube network. Suppose, though, the stoical tourist had found their way to one of London's top 10 attractions (in terms of visitor numbers); what would they have found?

Many opened as normal, but closed at around 3pm or 4pm to allow staff to battle home: the British Museum, Tate Modern, Natural History Museum, Science Museum and Madame Tussaud's. The National Gallery and the V&A had restricted hours and some galleries were closed to visitors. In Greenwich, the National Maritime Museum was open normally, but the Royal Observatory was closed all day. So too were the London Eye and the Tower of London, citing "health and safety" concerns after a dose of snow that a Montrealer or a Muscovite would barely notice.

At a time when Britain needs to be taken seriously as an economic power, we appear content to muddle through our mediocrity while the world sniggers: only a British Rail official could have coined the celebrated complaint about the "wrong kind of snow" gumming up the nation's trains.

http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/simon-calder/simon-calder-uks-holiday-camps-get-their-moment-in-the-sun-1548295.html


Linkback - UK's holiday camps get their moment in the sun
]]> 2/8/2009 9:24:27 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5339 5339
And in Dennis, soliciting such deals on beaches violates a town bylaw.

Residents, visitors and businesses on Dennis’ south side have been pestered for years by solicitors promising freebies at nearby resorts.

“They drive around the Sea Street Beach and Glendon Road Beach parking lots, approaching or stopping cars and trying to persuade people to go to timeshares like the Edgewater,” said Dennis Police Capt. Bill Monahan. “They get paid money to send people to listen to the sales pitches in exchange for a gift or a free weekend at the resort.”

Every so often, police catch someone in the act.

Monahan said the solicitors don’t mind paying the $50 fine imposed by the state because income from the many times they don’t get caught is lucrative. “They’re out there on a year-round basis even though the town has beach regulations that prohibit it.”

Beach Director Dustin Pineau said any violation of a beach bylaw is a criminal offense punishable by a fine of up to $300. Pineau said he and beach coordinator Harry Allen have told solicitors “dozens and dozens of times” to leave the beach parking lots. “They throw obscenities at us and insist they have a right to be there,” Pineau said.

Pineau said there was a meeting last year with Dave Puopolo, who owns many of the establishments, “and we told them this had to stop. What frustrates me is how arrogant they are. And they didn’t stop.”

Business and motel owners on the south side have complained to police about the solicitors bothering their customers.

“We continue to slap summonses on them as often as we can,” Monahan said. “The person who was solicited has to be willing to testify in court, and while some do, it’s hard to give up a half-day’s work. Many of the victims are visitors who will be long gone when the court date comes up.”

Monahan himself has been approached while off duty.

“One day my wife and I were driving down Chase Avenue and one of them fell in behind me — I know them on sight,” Monahan said. “I did a U-turn, and he was waving to me, so I stopped. When he came to the window, I pulled out my badge and said, ‘You’ll be receiving your summons in the mail.’ He wanted a jury trial and got one. He was found guilty, fined $50, and he was probably back to work before I got home.”

Police receive fewer complaints in winter when soliciting from vehicles is more difficult than approaching walkers and joggers on foot. “Warmer weather brings them out of their cars, aggressively approaching people along roads and beaches,” Monahan said.

Pineau hopes for some relief this summer. The town sent Puopolo a certified letter advising him that anyone representing his businesses “may not enter any town beach parking lot or beach” based on their past violations of beach bylaws.

Timeshare and condominium owner Puopolo did not return phone calls before The Register’s deadline.

http://www.wickedlocal.com/dennis/news/business/x84114366/Dennis-cracks-down-on-solicitors-Timeshare-salesmen-targeted


Linkback - Dennis cracks down on timeshare solicitors
]]> 2/8/2009 9:22:05 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5338 5338
The group's consumer research suggests 87 per cent of UK customers will take an overseas holiday this year – the same as the previous year – despite the economic gloom and unfavourable exchange rates.

TUI said the findings were "consistent with the stronger booking patterns we have seen over the last few weeks".

The firm added that demand for medium-haul destinations outside the eurozone such as Turkey and Egypt was "very strong".

German-owned TUI merged with rival First Choice in 2007 amid a wave of consolidation in the sector amid lower demand for package holidays. The firm said yesterday it was on track to meet savings targets of £175 million through the deal.

Numis Securities analyst Wyn Ellis described TUI's update as "encouragin

http://business.scotsman.com/medialeisure/UK-demand-for-holidays-39still.4953776.jp


Linkback - UK demand for holidays 'still strong'
]]> 2/8/2009 9:16:44 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5337 5337
The lawsuit filed Wednesday on behalf of Houston resident Julie Kuehn concerns the Dec. 20 crash of Continental Flight 1404. The Boeing 737-5000 was taking off en route to Houston when it veered off the runway and crashed into a ravine before breaking apart. With passengers trapped inside, the fuselage caught fire when jet fuel from a ruptured tank ignited.

"We are continuing to cooperate in the NTSB investigation, and this process is likely to continue for months," a Continental spokeswoman said. "Since the facts of the accident are still being investigated, the allegations are premature. We're prepared to defend the company's actions and those of our crew."

Kuehn, 39, one of 38 passengers hospitalized after suffering back injuries, is seeking unspecified damages for her medical expenses, pain and mental anguish and other items as well as exemplary damages against Continental based on its role in the crash.

The lawsuit, filed in a Texas court, says Continental and pilots David Butler and Chad Levang were negligent and failed to exercise the high degree of care required to safely operate and maintain an aircraft. The suit also says the pilots and crew failed to maintain control of the jetliner and take proper evasive action when problems arose, and failed to adequately protect passengers during the evacuation of the plane.

The Wall Street Journal reported Jan. 2 that a sudden wind gust appears to be the most likely culprit in the crash, according to people familiar with interviews of the plane's pilots by federal accident investigators.

The Journal noted that investigators hadn't reached any definitive conclusions and continued to consider a wide range of potential causes, but preliminary data from the plane's onboard recorders and interviews with the cockpit crew increasingly suggest the problem began when a strong crosswind pushed the twin- engine jet to the left of the runway's centerline, according to these people.

Teams from the National Transportation Safety Board, Continental and Boeing were examining the nose gear and portions of the main landing gear to see whether problems with brakes or landing gear may have played a role in the accident.

Continental's shares were at $13.50, up 2.6%, in after-hours trading. They closed Wednesday up 1.5% at $13.16.

http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/djf500/200902041743DOWJONESDJONLINE000815_FORTUNE5.htm


Linkback - Suit Accuses Continental Of Negligence In Crash
]]> 2/8/2009 9:15:27 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5336 5336
It’s a good question, and, in my experience, it’s not a typical situation.

I am still looking into the specifics of her situation, but there are some general circumstances that may contribute to an uptick in annual expenses, sometimes in the short run, and sometimes a more permanent increase.

Some of the factors that are relevant here; the property is located outside the United States, so to some degree, at least, the annual expense calculations are subject to some degree of currency exchange rates. Although generally, resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean benefit from lower labor costs.

The particular property the reader asks about is part of the RCI points program. Many people like the flexibility of points (I’ll revisit the issue soon, meanwhile here is an article I wrote about points several years ago), http://www.examiner.com/x-773-Timeshare-Examiner~y2009m2d3-Timeshare-classic-What-is-the-point-of-points-Part-I but it is a more expensive program to administer. If the conversion took place after the reader purchased, the annual costs will be higher.

Sometimes natural disaster plays a role. My sister and her family own a different resort in the same region. When she purchased, it was a “Right to Use” property, with her ownership expiring in 50 years. After the resort suffered major damage in a hurricane, the new management company operating the property imposed an assessment of several thousand dollars, but part of the change over also resulted in the ownership being converted to a permanent deeded property. It is now something that can be in her family for generations.

In some cases, there are limits built into the original policies and procedures when a resort opens, restricting the amount the annual cost could increase from one year to the next, with allowances for special assessments in case of emergency. But real estate laws in other countries aren’t always as all encompassing as in the United States.

And in the case of the emailer, the maintenance fee is not supposed to increase by more than 4% each year, but there is the assessment, then there is a club fee, a points fee and an operational fee. They were even assessed a fee when the call center moved from India to the United States. It begins to look a little like the junk fees when you refinance a mortgage or buy a car.

Not to be ignored is the fact that the management company for the resort in question has been recently acquired by a larger developer, one that has had financial challenges in the recent past. Again, just speculating, but it wouldn’t be the first time a company created ways to increase the revenue to shift acquisition costs to the end user.

Costs are generally more controlled for US based properties, but sometimes they are subject to a number of costs over and above the annual maintenance fees. They could include property taxes and insurance, though in some cases these costs are built into the one maintenance fee. As a matter of fact, the developer in question has US based properties as well.

And most owners have other costs beyond their maintenance fee anyway. These usually include membership in an exchange company, the cost of exchanges when they take place, and any other programs, like ICE Gallery, they may join.

http://www.examiner.com/x-773-Timeshare-Examiner~y2009m2d3-Timeshare-Maintenance-fees-out-of-control


Linkback - Timeshare: Maintenance fees out of control
]]> 2/8/2009 9:13:15 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5335 5335
Chairman Sir Colin Chandler delivered the message at the airline’s annual general meeting.

He added that all decisions regarding adding aircraft to the fleet will be made “prudently”, based on the trading outlook given overall economic conditions.

“Naturally this fleet plan for 2010 of 185 aircraft and 2011 of 197 aircraft may change if the macro environment worsens in the next three to six months and given the lead time for building aircraft,” the chairman said. “In light of the current economic environment the Board will continue to adopt a cautious approach to growth and will focus on maintaining a strong balance sheet.”

Sir Colin, leaving the chairmanship after six years, noted that the European economy was in “a challenging recession of an uncertain length and depth”. He added: “Many commentators are suggesting that this could be the worst economic conditions of a generation. The harsh effects of this are already being felt by many companies and industries.”

Easyjet began 2009 in a better situation than had been expected, with forward bookings relatively unchanged from the same period one year previously, he commented. “There is clear evidence of business travellers switching to EasyJet in search of better value and we are benefiting as leisure passengers switch from long haul destinations to holiday within the EasyJet network.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/easyjet-may-reconsider-fleet-additions-in-recession-5634174.html


Linkback - easyJet-reconsider fleet additions in recession
]]> 2/8/2009 9:08:16 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5334 5334
Did you know that every time your car goes even over a mile or so over the speed limit, it is registered and placed on the database?
They only send a ticket if you are way over, OR (and here is the rub..) if you receive over 20 near misses!!!!!! You can now check how many you have
against your car's registered number.

http://www.i-database.co.uk/index1.php



Linkback - Speed Cameras
]]> 2/6/2009 3:10:54 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5333 5333 I've built up 16500 points over 17 years and am now 73. I have a recent spinal cord defect and have both lower legs amputated. My points have recently been used by close family and I have been trying to transfer the points to family since the end of last October. Despite several phone calls in Nov/Dec/Jan there has been not one letter or call back from Diamond!!! I have not even been sent a bill for the 2009 management charges!!!! I now understand them to be in excess of 30% so I am led to believe that DRI wants me to walk away - relinquish my points for no cash whatsoever - which will give them extra capital, to cover their losses on loans, presumably. Just a bunch of capitalist thieves, like the rest of our Upper/Ruling classes. Please - anyone - give me some cause to hope that this is not the scam/crash that I fear!!
Brian - brian.mcdermott5(at)virgin.net

Linkback - Trying to leave DRI
]]> 2/6/2009 11:21:57 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5332 5332 [urlhttp://www.oft.gov.uk/news/press/2009/10-09][/url]

Linkback - Been scammed? OFT wants you.
]]> 2/6/2009 8:39:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5331 5331 its the usual no win no fee but if they do recover my money its 50/50 split, i said if you can do that then with a bit of research i can do that and save money?, anyway he is sending his papers in the post for me to look at,
has any one heard of this before? is it legit? me being daft and in a rush i did not get the mans company details,
any info appreciated

lee

Linkback - buyweeks in liquidation? help please
]]> 2/4/2009 4:28:24 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5330 5330
Linkback - maintanience fees
]]> 2/4/2009 2:52:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5329 5329
In order to enhance legal certainty and fully achieve the benefits of the internal market for consumers and businesses, the relevant laws of the Member States need to be approximated further. Therefore, certain aspects of the marketing, sale and resale of timeshares and long-term holiday products as well as the exchange of rights deriving from timeshare contracts needed to be fully harmonised.

The purpose of this Directive is to contribute to the proper functioning of the internal market and to achieve a high level of consumer protection, by approximating the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States in respect of certain aspects of the marketing, sale and resale of timeshares and long-term holiday products as well as exchange contracts.

Provisions of this Directive will affect to the following type of contracts:

Timeshare contracts
Long-term holidays products
Resale contract
Exchange contracts
Advertising and pre-contractual information
Member States will ensure that any advertising specifies the possibility of obtaining the information related to the product and indicates where it can be obtained.

This pre-contractual information, which must be provided by the trader to the consumer in due time before the consumer is bound by any contract or offer, must include the elements and informations provided for in the Annexes to this Directive for all the concerned products: timeshare contracts, long-term holidays products, resale contract and exchange contracts.

The timeshare, long-term holiday product, resale or exchange contracts
Member States will ensure that the contract is in writing, on paper or on another durable medium, and drawn up in the language or one of the languages of the Member State in which the consumer is resident or a national, at the choice of the consumer, provided it is an official language of the Community.

All the advertising and pre-contractual information must form an integral part of the contract and not be altered unless the parties expressly agree otherwise or the changes result from unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond the trader’s control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been exercised.

Right of withdrawal and Advance payment
In addition to the remedies available to the consumer under national law in the event of breach of the provisions of this Directive, Member States will ensure that the consumer is given a period of 14 calendar days to withdraw from the timeshare, long-term holiday product, resale or exchange contract, without giving any reason.

Where the consumer intends to exercise the right of withdrawal the consumer shall, before the expiry of the withdrawal period, notify the trader on paper or on another durable medium of the decision to withdraw.

Judicial and administrative redress and out-of-court redress
Member States will ensure that, in the interests of consumers, adequate and effective means exist to ensure compliance by traders with this Directive. This means will include provisions to ensure that certain bodies are entitled to take actions in defence of consumers, such as:

Public bodies and authorities or their representatives.
Consumer organisations with a legitimate interest in protecting consumers.
Professional organisations with a legitimate interest in taking such action.
Besides, Member States will encourage the setting up or development of adequate and effective out-of-court complaints and redress procedures for the settlement of consumer disputes under this Directive and, where appropriate, encourage traders and their branch organisations to inform consumers of the availability of such procedures.

Member States should not be allowed to maintain or introduce in their national legislation provisions diverging from those laid down in this Directive. Where no such harmonised provisions exist, Member States should remain free to maintain or introduce national legislation in conformity with Community law.

Member States must adopt and publish, by February 23rd, 2011, the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this Directive. They will forthwith communicate to the Commission the text of those provisions, and apply those provisions from February, 23rd 2011.

http://euroalert.net/en/news.aspx?idn=8419


Linkback - Directive 2008/122/EC published Feb 3rd 2009
]]> 2/4/2009 6:53:09 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5328 5328
Raintree is the largest independent US-based vacation ownership company in Mexico. The company has sales offices in Cancun, Los Cabos, Puerta Vallarta, and Mexico.

The Raintree Vacation Club has 21 timeshare resorts, 10 of which are in Mexico. The Club also has resorts in western US and western Canada.

Recently, the Club bought the Phoenix resort, which marked their 21st property. The company’s president and CEO Doug Bech says that the Phoenix property represents, “… over $100 million in future timeshare sales. It was acquired from Resort Funding, which is also providing an excellent working capital/receivables hypothecation line of credit for the consumer notes for both the Phoenix and Villa Vera Puerto Vallarta resorts. We will be rebranding this property quickly and begin operating it as a Raintree Resort.”

While most timeshare clubs are downsizing, Raintree continues to maintain pursue high-market perspectives. The company is clearly doing something right.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20090202283/Latest/Raintree-Vacation-Club-performs-well-amidst-recession.html


Linkback - Raintree Vacation Club performs well amidst recess
]]> 2/4/2009 6:50:59 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5327 5327
Accused of violating the “Do not call” regulations, Westgate CEO David Siegel agreed, without admitting guilt, to have the company pay $900,000. Accument, another Florida travel company paid about $275,000 for the same violation.

I speculated last week that the million dollars was a relatively small drop in the Westgate marketing bucket, a cost of doing business, comparable to Fedex paying parking tickets.

My interview with Siegel leads me to correct the impression left by my speculation.

First, according to Siegel, the calls that violated the law were not made by a Westgate phone room. One manager in one of the sales offices (Westgate now has more than 20 resorts in 11 states) hired an outside marketing company that promised to provide travel oriented sales prospects for presentations.

These people had filled out surveys on cards in order to win a prize, leading to the invitation to a Westgate presentation. Similar marketing programs may be seen at pizzerias, festivals and county fairs all over the country.

Because it wasn’t made clear on these cards that the calls would be made on behalf of Westgate, the Federal Trade Commission, responding to a number of complaints pursued charges against the developer.

Siegel feels very strongly that they would have prevailed if they had fought the charges. However, with a potential penalty of $10,000 per violation, they were facing potential fines of more than ten million dollars. That combined with the legal fees associated with even a successful fight, persuaded Siegel to follow the advice of counsel and settle.

Siegel insists that the sales generated by the leads in question were about a quarter of a million dollars, so all in all, it was a losing proposition for the developer with almost 30 years experience in the timeshare business.

In a wide ranging conversation, Siegel reflected on the problems caused by the nation’s credit crunch, the laying off of more than 4,000 employees, the lack of a secondary market for timeshares, and being an independent in a world of hotels. More on those issues in future entries.

http://www.examiner.com/x-773-Timeshare-Examiner~y2009m2d2-Westgate-Resorts-an-interview-with-David-Siegel


Linkback - Westgate Resorts: an interview with David Siegel
]]> 2/4/2009 6:50:02 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5326 5326
On Feb. 2, one of Europe's most profitable airlines, Ryanair (RYAAY), slipped into the red for the first time since the company went public in 1997. The Dublin-based discount airline posted losses of $130 million for the three months ending December 2008, compared with a $56 million profit during the same period the previous year.

Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary described the results in a statement as "disappointing" and blamed a 71% increase in the price Ryanair paid for fuel during the quarter. The airline, which in the past has been criticized for refusing to hedge fuel contracts, this time around had locked in prices at a punitive rate of more than $1,100 a ton just as they began to fall to their current lows.

But the recent drop in fuel costs means Ryanair is now predicting a modest profit this year. Instead of breaking even, as the company previously anticipated, it expects a net profit of between $64 million and $102 million—despite a 20% drop in average fares, which at around $43 are already the lowest among European carriers. Ryanair also predicts a return to "significant profit" in its next financial year, ending March 2010.

RECORD LOSSES FOR EUROPEAN CARRIERS?
Credit a savvier fuel pricing strategy. The airline has now hedged 75% of its fuel requirements for the period from April to September 2009 (and 50% of its fuel needs from October to December) at an average price of $650 a ton—some 38% lower than the average $1,050 per ton paid in the current fiscal year. If Ryanair's average cost in fiscal year 2010 finishes at $650 per ton, the company's fuel bill will plummet by approximately $638 million the following fiscal year, O'Leary explained in a statement. He claimed that the new hedging contracts will "ensure that Ryanair returns to substantial profitability next year, when many of our competitors will be reporting losses," presumably due to factors ranging from lower demand and overcapacity to less attractive fuel contracts.

The fall in fuel prices is one bright spot in an otherwise challenging environment for the aviation industry. Citigroup (C) aviation analyst Andrew Light predicts that the fourth quarter of 2008 and the first quarter of 2009 are likely to be record loss-making quarters for European airlines, on par with the downturn caused by September 11, 2001. This year he predicts that within Europe, business travel and air cargo revenues are likely to fall by as much as 20% while passenger revenue could drop by 5%.

Just last month both British Airways (BAY.L) and Europe's largest airline, Air France-KLM (AIRF.PA), issued profit warnings. Air France-KLM, due to report its third-quarter results on Feb. 13, is expected to show an operating loss of $255 million for the quarter compared with an operating profit of $397 million during the third quarter last year. BA, which had previously expected to make a small profit, now expects a full-year loss of $212 million due to the economic downturn, fewer lucrative business travelers, and a fall in the value of the British pound.

Many analysts expect Europe's second-largest airline, Deutsche Lufthansa (LHAG.DE), also to lower its earnings estimates as demand for air travel falls. Citigroup thinks the German carrier's operating profit in 2009 will halve to $510 million. Last year Lufthansa went on a dealmaking spree, announcing plans to buy troubled Austrian Airlines and Brussels Airlines and increasing its ownership stake in Britain's No. 2 airline, BMI, to 80%.

AER LINGUS DEAL UNLIKELY
Ryanair also had hoped to finalize its own acquisition of rival Irish airline Aer Lingus (AERL.L). But in January the Irish government refused to sell Ryanair its 25% stake in the carrier for $955 million. According to O'Leary, Ryanair is unlikely "to waste any further management time or resources making another offer for Aer Lingus, as its scale and losses will continue to render it increasingly irrelevant in Europe's airline landscape."

Analysts reckon that as more consumers trade down, budget carriers Ryanair and easyJet (EZJ.L) will emerge from the current economic turbulence before the rest of Europe's airlines. Ryanair expects passenger numbers to grow 14%, to 66 million, next year. "The longer and deeper this recession, the better it will be for the lowest-cost producers in every sector," O'Leary said. "Like Lidl, Aldi, Ikea, and McDonald's (MCD), Ryanair is the lowest-cost provider—by a distance—in the European airline industry."

http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/content/feb2009/gb2009022_438388.htm?chan=globalbiz_europe+index+page_top+stories


Linkback - Ryanair Tastes Red Ink
]]> 2/4/2009 6:48:42 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5325 5325
In a poll of 1,000 UK consumers, it was found that 46 per cent had already scaled back their travel plans due to the recession.

There are indications that concerns about the impact of travel on social and environmental conditions are also changing holiday plans.

Sixty-one per cent of the respondents to the survey indicated that they were intending to find out more about the environmental and social impact of their holidays, and 55 per cent said they would be choosing holiday destinations that could be reached by boat or train, rather than by plane.

Seventy-six per cent of those polled reported that they did not have sufficient information regarding the environmental and social impact of holiday travel to be able to make an informed choice.

It is expected that 2009 will be a difficult year for holiday operators, but those able to match value with social and environmental “values” are likely to fare better, and be better able to ride out the recession, according to Good Business, the corporate responsibility consultancy that commissioned the study.

Good Business founder and CEO Giles Gibbons noted: “With less money in their pockets it seems many holidaymakers plan to look for cheaper alternatives in the UK this year.”

He added: “Some might see this as good news from an environmental perspective, with reductions in things like flights.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/consumers-seeking-information-on-environmental-impact-of-holidays-5634156.html


Linkback - Consumers - environmental impact of hols
]]> 2/4/2009 6:46:31 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5324 5324
The flight attendant was said to have contracted the deadly strain of malaria after working a BA Heathrow-Ghana flight. The two other staff who were infected became ill after working on other routes.

Unite, Britain’s largest union, has demanded an urgent investigation into the matter, indicating that it could be linked to the accessibility of anti-malarial medication.

Officials from the union, which represents cabin crew members, have expressed their concern about the incidents to the UK government.

The national office for Unite, Steve Turner, said: “We would like to see a full investigation into the death of a BA cabin crew member from malaria and to see malaria tablets more readily available, as they once were.”

Previously, BA provided free anti-malarial tablets to its 9,000 crew around the world, but has changed its policy to make the drugs available only at airports for which prescriptions have been written.

The airline’s physician is based at Heathrow, and union sources are saying that with crew members flying around the world – and often at short notice – it can be difficult to have free access to the tablets, meaning that many are not protected.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/british-airways-flight-attendant-dies-from-malaria-5634153.html


Linkback - British Airways flight attendant dies from malaria
]]> 2/4/2009 6:44:19 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5323 5323
The reason I use DaE was because of the way the site was simple to use and you did not have to pay upfront fees for the privelege of doing a swap.

Please please please Dial an Exchange, don't go down this route of asking T/S owners to fork out more money in the present climate.

If someone from the company reads this, you will see by looking at earlier posts that you were being recommended above DRI and II for the very reason of NOT having fees.





Linkback - Dial an Exchange Gold Membership
]]> 2/3/2009 1:50:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5322 5322 Guess what it is:



6 points for a correct answer.

As I suspect some of you may have this - I am starting low and adding 1 point a day until is is correctly guessed. A kind of Russian Roulette if you know - do you try to eek more points out of it, or do you settle for a lower points value?

Answer to be revealed 8th Feb unless correctly guessed beforehand.



Linkback - Guess what it is - 02 Feb
]]> 2/2/2009 11:11:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5321 5321
Linkback - Thankyou oldbill
]]> 2/2/2009 7:15:04 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5320 5320
What is the catch? Anyone know?



Linkback - Universal transfers
]]> 2/2/2009 4:27:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5319 5319 I have made an appointment with the above company in regards to selling my week. They have told me to bring along my deeds, they will then do a search to confirm ownership then they will make an offer. I will leave with cash they will keep deeds.

Does this sound too simple? Is this a scam? Am I subjecting myself being ripped off? Can anyone shed light on this? Please

Linkback - timesharegetout.co.uk
]]> 2/2/2009 3:09:44 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5318 5318 That got me thinking about the same question as regards to timeshare. Rick mentioned some sites for research, which you can see here. But his answer, for a number of reasons, wasn’t as comprehensive as one might expect. Nor will mine, for very much the same reason.

Many of the timeshare resorts in the United States were constructed after the 1990 passage of the American’s with Disabilities Act, but what is the definition of disability?
Most people think ramps and showers without a lip, allowing easy access for those using wheel chairs. But there are also travelers with vision or hearing impairments; mental disabilities, and even obesity meets the classification in some cases.

So just because you see the familiar logo in the RCI or Interval International directory indicating that the property is “accessible” don’t assume it meets the conditions for the travelers in your group.

Furthermore, the ADA is an American law. Much of the world is making an effort to catch up with the States, but it varies from area to area.

Before traveling, call the particular resort and make sure it suits the needs of your traveling party.

Most disabilities also have an advocacy group of one form or another that may be able to provide information about the suitability of a particular destination.
Incidentally, accessible does not mean unattractive.

Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas offersf units that are among the nicest I’ve seen. The floor plans are spacious and nicely laid out. And you don’t even initially realize that they are designed to meet the needs of a variety of physical challenges.

Having said all of that, I’m gonna risk pi**ing a few people off here. My mother was in a wheelchair for more than 25 years, and we traveled all over the country well before the ADA was passed. There were some things that she was not able to participate in, and no law like the ADA is going to make Space Mountain a ride she would have been able to do. But even without ramps, there was a lot she could do, and enjoy. So do your homework, do what you can to maximize the experience, but at the end of the day, I wouldn’t deprive myself of visiting an area just because not everything is going to be doable for me.

In terms of timeshare, discussion forums in the Timeshare Users Group, and other sites online may be able to offer some information.

http://www.examiner.com/x-773-Timeshare-Examiner~y2009m1d31-Timeshare-and-travelers-with-disabilities


Linkback - Timeshare and travelers with disabilities
]]> 2/2/2009 7:39:52 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5317 5317
Scotland 7 nights £188
Price is based on seven nights’ self-catering in a cottage in a quiet part of Keith in Morayshire. Book with Cottages4you (0845 268 1560; www.cottages4you.co.uk). Valid for arrivals on February 14.

Spain 7 nights £225
Three nights’ b & b at Petit Palace Tres Cruces in Madrid with BA Holidays (0844 493 0758; www.ba.com). Departures from Gatwick throughout February.

Dubai flight only £231
Return flight from Heathrow on Royal Brunei with Flight Centre (0870 499 0042; www.flightcentre.co.uk). Offer available until end of March for travel until July 9. Quote ref DXBLONBI1.

UNDER £500

Madeira 7 nights £259
Save £250 on seven nights’ b & b at the Oasis Atlantic with First Choice (0871 664 9011; www.firstchoice.co.uk). Departs from Glasgow on February 9.

Tunisia 7 nights £295
Save £90 on seven nights’ half board at the Tour Khalef in Sousse with Portland Holidays Direct (08712 313237; www.portlanddirect.co.uk). Departs from Gatwick on February 18.

Morocco 14 nights £340
Price is based on 14 nights’ b & b at the Atlantic Hotel in Agadir with Panorama (0844 879 8200; www.panoramaholidays.co.uk). Departs from Gatwick on February 20.

Italy 3 nights £349
Save £110 on three nights’ b&b at the Montebello Splendid In Florence with Cresta Cities & Short Breaks (0844 800 7020; www.crestaholidays.co.uk). Departs from Gatwick on March 20.

SKIING

Söll 7 nights £179
Save £280 on seven nights’ in Austria staying at the Schindlhaus Apartments with Directski (0800 587 0945). Departs from Gatwick or Manchester Airport (£199) on Saturday.

Morzine 7 nights £549
Save £300 on seven nights’ catered accomodation at the French resort staying at the Chalet du Bois with Snowline (0844 557 3118; www.snowline.co.uk). Departs from Heathrow on February 8.

Folgarida 7 nights £599
Seven nights’ half board plus ski-boot hire and lift passes at the Italian resort, near Madonna Di Campiglio, staying at Vecchia America with Equity Ski (01273 622 111; www.equityski.co.uk). Departs from Gatwick on Saturday.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/budgettravel/4399482/Holiday-deals-of-the-week.html


Linkback - Holiday deals of the week
]]> 2/2/2009 6:36:46 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5316 5316
The answer is simple - a resounding yes. Some 20% of us who went on a foreign holiday last year are considering staying in the UK this year and many of our tourism businesses are already reporting healthy bookings for the summer months. Britain is such a varied destination; it can appeal to every taste and budget and making the choice to holiday here could be the best decision you make in 2009.

We are also fortunate to have such a huge range of accommodation across all price bands - from grand country house hotels to farmhouse B&Bs. And this year, as the tourism industry sees the chance to encourage more of us to explore our own country, there are deals and special offers to be had. So it is worth shopping around just as you would for an overseas holiday.

And you can forget the hassle involved in an overseas holiday - no flight delays or long queues at the airport and no worrying about how many dollars or euros your pound will buy.

Those of you who have always chosen to travel overseas might be pleasantly surprised while discovering your own backyard. For new events and attractions, a resurgence in local food and the growth in activity breaks have transformed the British holiday. Add to that our timeless tourism assets, from picturesque countryside and sleepy seaside resorts to lively multicultural cities, with terrific heritage and iconic landmarks, infused with contemporary design, music, architecture and performing arts.

However much we moan about it, we rather like our changeable weather! Regardless of the forecast there will always be surfers out in full force on Newquay beaches and walkers enjoying the scenic surroundings of the Lake District. I recall lying on an idyllic beach in Greece with my pre-teenage sons who casually remarked: "Of course this isn't the best beach in the world - that's Camber sands."

You see, what kids remember is playing football on the beach as the tide goes out, dive bombing in the dunes and fish and chips in their wrappers for tea - rather than exotic locations.

In Britain you can see art and culture from around the world as the entry to our most famous museums and galleries - such as the Tate Modern, the Lowry Gallery in Manchester, the Elgin Marbles at the British Museum or the Burrell Collection in Glasgow - is entirely free. Exploring on foot is a great way to admire the modern and historic architecture or to enjoy one of our many fantastic royal parks.

And we should take pride in our own tourism industry. This is Britain's fifth largest industry, supporting 2.7m jobs and delivering £114bn - 8.2% of the UK GDP. By choosing to holiday at home you are giving much-needed support to local regions, businesses and livelihoods. Almost one in eight startup businesses created in the UK belongs to the tourism sector, one of few industries that can promote and nurture small businesses - more than 200,000 of them. And tourism provides entry-level jobs, making it a viable option for people trying to get back in the job market and build their skills.

So yes, this is the year to have a great holiday exploring Britain - and at the same time you can pat yourself on the back at being part of a trend to support your local economy.

No, says Tim Williamson, customer director for First Choice and Thomson Holidays

Britain is lying under a dark cloud. By taking your holiday in Blighty, there's no escaping the doom and gloom of the economic downturn, job-cuts, and quite literally, the rain clouds. In these financially challenging times, people need escapism, that little ray of light to give them something to focus on and look forward to. That can be found by hopping on a plane and heading abroad for some guaranteed sunshine.

Last summer, Cyprus racked up 1,058 hours of sunshine compared with a paltry 381 hours in the UK. And the prospect of a scorching summer this year seems slim. Last year was the wettest British summer since records began, and with the weather in the UK becoming increasingly temperamental, why take the risk of your much-anticipated holiday being a complete washout? What can you do with your family in the rain? Not a lot.

Thomson and First Choice research shows that 88% of people would prefer to cut back on dining out and home improvements rather than sacrifice their holidays. And if you are going to spend your hard-earned cash on a trip away, why would you risk putting a dampener on the entire experience by staying in the UK, when you could be soaking up the sun in Egypt?

There's a common misconception that a holiday abroad will cost the earth. In fact, heading abroad can save you money. A week in May self-catering in Menorca for a family of four (two adults and two children) costs £695 with First Choice, whereas staying seven nights around the same time on a self-catering basis in a well-known British holiday camp will set you back up to £996 for a family of the same size. Worried about spending money? All-inclusives make it easy to budget and know how much money you are going to spend.

What better feeling is there than stepping off a plane and feeling the wave of heat hit your face - even when it's dark? And how else do you replicate the radiance only captured from a week spent in the sun - it's just not the same out of a bottle.

Book your package holiday abroad with a company protected under the government-backed Air Travel Organisers' Licensing Scheme and you can rest assured that your money is protected. But could you say the same if your UK hotel or rental company goes out of business?

While there are several areas of outstanding natural beauty to be discovered on these shores, a dip in the North Sea is hardly as enticing as it is in the tranquil turquoise sea of the Mediterranean. Plus, in Britain, you can't learn about overseas cultures, which is one of the joys of travelling abroad. Tasting local cuisines, immersing yourself in new experiences or simply lying around a pool reading a book or four is what makes a holiday. Or, if you fancy hopping on a camel, diving in a coral reef, or swimming with dolphins, you can.

You simply don't get to unwind in the same way in the UK. You still face traffic jams to the beach, you're still on your UK mobile network, so easily contactable, making it harder to forget about the stresses of work. People need to take a holiday from the recession. Abroad, you really can switch off, forget about everyday worries and relax - now that's truly priceless.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/money/2009/feb/01/household-bills-budgets-holiday


Linkback - With budgets stretched, should we holiday in UK?
]]> 2/2/2009 6:33:36 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5315 5315
Linkback - an airline horror story
]]> 1/31/2009 5:08:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5314 5314
Has anyone ever wondered or indeed asked how 'Oldbill' knows so much about the industry? I have lived on the Costa Del Sol for 16 years & I don't hear of half as much as he does regarding this business!

How do people in the UK hear of so many arrests & businesses being closed down, when I live in the heart of it & hear nothing?!!!

Linkback - WHAT'S IN A NAME?/SCAM
]]> 1/30/2009 11:45:33 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5313 5313
Four daily flights from London Heathrow will be offered beginning at the end of March.

Airfares start from £99, and the two-for-one deal is being offered on bookings made on line at Lufthansa.com by 10 February.

From next month, service will commence linking Milan-Malpensa with Barcelona and Paris, which will be followed by service with Brussels, Budapest, Bucharest and Madrid by early March. Lisbon and Heathrow routes will be launched at the end of March.

Lufthansa Italia’s first two Airbus A319s are being configured in business and economy classes, seating 138 passengers.

Flight attendants will be Italian speakers and offer passengers Italian food and drink – including averna, grappa and spumante.

Marianne Sammann, the UK and Ireland general manager for Lufthansa, commented: “The introduction of Lufthansa Italia’s new four times daily non-stop service from London-Heathrow to Milan will allow us to offer both business and leisure travellers alike a convenient and frequent service to northern Italy with the high Lufthansa quality which our customers expect.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/lufthansa-prepares-to-launch-italian-offshoot-5634144.html


Linkback - Lufthansa prepares to launch Italian offshoot
]]> 1/29/2009 6:51:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5312 5312
Since 2004 education authorities across England have issued tens of thousands of fixed penalties to parents.

Some families claim the higher cost of holidays during school breaks is largely to blame for the growing number of absences.

A study into the issue is set to be completed by the summer.

'Fine cheaper'

In the 2004/05 school year just 3,483 fixed penalties were issued by local education authorities (LEAs) across England.

But by 2006/07 it had risen sharply to 14,625.

The latest available figures from the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) from September 2007 to April 2008, show 10,498 notices were posted to parents in the first two terms of that academic year.

Some parents in Devon have said the fines are a risk worth taking because of the expense of holidays.

"One hundred pounds is probably a lot cheaper than the difference in the cost of a holiday," one mother told BBC News.

While Richard Newton-Chance, principal of Queen Elizabeth Community College in Crediton, Devon, said the premium on holidays taken in August encouraged parents to take their children out of school so they could holiday earlier or later.

ABSENCE FINES ISSUED
2004/05 - 3,483
2005/06 - 12,150
2006/07 - 14,625
2007/08 (excluding final term) - 10,498

Schools can grant up to 10 days term-time holiday per year, but it is at head teachers' discretion.

There are two levels of penalty notices - £50 if the fine is settled within 28 days and £100 if it is later than 28 days but within 42 days.

Parents who refuse to pay are committing an offence under the 1996 Education Act.

The choice whether to issue fines rests with individual schools and LEAs. And there are vastly different approaches.

Kent, for example, issued 330 notices between September 07 and April 08.

But many London boroughs, including Haringey, Hounslow and Lambeth, did not send out any.

Reasons for absence have been recorded by schools since 2006, but it is not compulsory and many unauthorised days off are unexplained.

Some local authorities did not issue any fines last year

A DCSF spokesman said the practice of issuing fines was rolled-out across England in 2006.

"More local authorities are aware of them now. And from September 2007 we expanded the number of things they could be issued for.

"Over the last five years it's gone up. We're currently doing a piece of research talking to LEAs asking why exactly [the fines] were given.

"It will also look into the effectiveness of them."

A spokeswoman from First Choice, in Canterbury, Kent, said more families were booking breaks in term time.

"People are more open to that now, when they see the difference in price," she said.
She added the economic downturn had not made a difference to sales.

The Association of British Travel Agents said it was hard to monitor how many parents took their children out of school for holidays.

A spokesman said travel agents tended not to ask people booking holidays in term time if they had gained permission from their child's school.

But he added sales of family breaks had been buoyant throughout January as many took advantage of children-go-free offers.

"It's been a very pleasant surprise because in the current economic climate no one knew what would happen," a spokesman said.

"Business has been very brisk because of the deals."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/7856092.stm


Linkback - Is term-time holiday worth a fine?
]]> 1/29/2009 6:48:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5311 5311
Kevin and I were introduced at the airport, along with the rest of the group, and instantly developed a good rapport. He says he liked the look of me right from the start, even though we had just been introduced.

Throughout the week, Kevin and I mixed easily within the group and either sat around the pool chatting or did various watersports activities such as jetskiing or parascending. In the evening, the whole group got together for dinner. On the second day we sat together at dinner and really got to know each other. We realised we had a lot in common, and there was a spark, which was strange for me because I hadn't felt those feelings in a while.

At the end of the holiday we knew we fancied each other, but we didn't get together until a month later. I think we were both so resigned to the fact that we wouldn't meet anyone. It was a pleasant surprise that we had, but we also didn't quite know how to take it forward.

After arranging to meet at the monthly Spice social event in London, Kevin asked if I would like to come over to his house for dinner at the weekend. He made me a roast; I was very impressed with his cooking and the conversation flowed really easily. It was clear that we liked each other and we have been dating since that day. We feel so lucky. We keep pinching ourselves. I didn't expect to meet my partner on a singles' holiday, but I'm so happy that I did.

Kevin: In May last year I had a week's leave and wanted some sun. Over the years my friends have settled down and some have children so they can't go away at the drop of a hat. I saw a Tenerife holiday in the Spiceuk brochure; the hotel was near a surf beach, which was great because I had recently done a surfing weekend in Devon and needed more practice, so I signed up. A relationship was the last thing on my mind - I simply wanted to go on holiday and do something I enjoyed.

Having been a member of my local Spice group for many years (in the past I've been white-water rafting, mountain biking and horse riding) I knew that the holiday would be great fun. In my experience the holidays are a brilliant way to meet people and boost your social life.

While I was at the airport I met Tracy, who was one of the first Spice group members to arrive. I was attracted to her immediately; she was bright, funny and good-looking. Throughout the holiday we sat together at dinner, chatted, laughed and danced. Most evenings there were group activities and it was a very natural, relaxed environment. The whole group mixed well and we all had such a good time. This allowed Tracy and I to get to know each other without any pressure.

After Tenerife most people swapped emails and many are still friends. I arranged to meet Tracy at the monthly Spice social event and we've been together ever since.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2009/jan/24/singles-holiday-dating-experience


Linkback - Singles holiday dater: 'We keep pinching ourselves
]]> 1/29/2009 6:42:32 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5310 5310
Hawaii timeshares are at the top of exchangers' wishlists, in part because every seven-day interval in the year is a "red week" -- a desirable time to go. Some exchange companies offer owners of Hawaii timeshares two weeks of vacation for every week in the islands that they're willing to part with. Those units that do go into the exchange system -- occasionally because the developer has yet to sell all the intervals -- tend to be snapped up quickly.

But this year is quite different. Normally sought-after late winter and spring break weeks are being offered to Interval International (II) members for cash rentals ("getaways"), meaning no one has exchanged for them; that means you're also likely to find these condo-style units being rented out by the property management directly, and also by timeshare owners on EBay, www.redweek.com and other online outlets, possibly for less than II's deals.

In the case of II members, they can purchase weeklong getaways at a number of ResortQuest Hawaii vacation condos and condotels as well as at traditional timeshare developments. On Kauai, for example, a unit at the ResortQuest Islander on the Beach (a recently renovated condotel) is being offered for as little as $101 a night ($108 over Easter Week) for a room that sleeps four. The larger, two-bedroom apartment-style units at the ResortQuest at Poipu Kai are going for as little as $170 a night.

But there are deals on all the islands. On Maui, empty ResortQuest units are turning up at the Papakea Resort near Lahaina and Maui Banyan in Kihei, for as little as $161 a night; on the Big Island, ResortQuest Shores at Waikoloa and Waikoloa Colony Villas have similar offers, while the separately managed Kona Coast Resort in Kailua-Kona has one-bedrooms from $128 a night. ResortQuest Waikiki Sunset has one bedrooms for as low as $121 a night.

If those prices don't seem very low, keep in mind that in most cases these properties have full kitchens and residential proportions rather than hotel sizes and amenities, while still having resort facilities and service, making them a good value for families or couples traveling together.

The reason for the extra rooms is clear. Even though airfares and prices are dropping, consumer confidence is right there with them. As the Maui News and other outlets reported recently, hotel occupancy rates for November 2008 (the latest figures available) continued the slide of October 2008 and are dramatic drops from November 2007. Maui and Kauai, for example, only filled roughly 61 percent of their rooms this November, while the Big Island barely managed to fill half of its rooms; Oahu had the "high" of 68.5 percent.

The one thing of which you can be confident: If you can afford a Hawaiian getaway in the next few months, you won't complain of crowds when you get there.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/hawaii/detail?&entry_id=35090


Linkback - Timeshare Alert: Room(s) to Spare
]]> 1/29/2009 6:40:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5309 5309
Sixteen British employees have been arrested on suspicion of fraud, including the company administrator Sandra Maynard.

One client - Janine Greaves, from Marlow, Bucks - paid {banned word/phrase} nearly £2,000 last year to sell her timeshare.

They told her they had a "corporate buyer" offering £19,000 and urged her to fly to Malaga to close the deal.

Janine, who has twice beaten cancer, was reluctant to travel but {banned word/phrase} insisted. There, a Global Vacations rep persuaded her - after a gruelling five-hour sales pitch - to spend another £2,000 on a deposit to join holiday network {banned word/phrase} Concierge.

She was offered £9,500 for her timeshare but only after three years on a "cashback" deal. As soon as she got back to the UK, Janine had second thoughts but Global Vacations then demanded the remaining £9,000.

Eventually, after providing her medical history, she was told she could pay £3,000 for a cheaper membership.

Since the raid, Janine has been told the company has "no objection" to her credit card firm giving her the refund.

A spokeswoman insists the firm, which trades in Spain as Vacation Services SL, was separate from {banned word/phrase} and {banned word/phrase} Concierge, despite sharing the same Gibraltar address.

If you have a complaint about these firms, write to the European Consumer Centre, 54 Principe de Vergara, 28006, Madrid or email cec@consumo-inc.es.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2009/01/29/investigate-timeshare-raid-in-spain-115875-21079354/


Linkback - INVESTIGATE: Timeshare raid in Spain
]]> 1/29/2009 6:36:18 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5308 5308
http://uk.news.yahoo.com/blog/editors_corner/article/11975/

Linkback - What a complaint letter..!
]]> 1/28/2009 6:43:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5307 5307
The company’s managing director for the UK, Nick Hughes, suggested that a major loss of consumer confidence during the latter part of 2008 has affected forward holiday bookings.

“According to a report by Pricewaterhouse Coopers, there has been a 20% decline in forward bookings for 2009 for long-haul travel. That would seem about right,” Hughes said.

In responding to the decline in bookings, Kuoni has initiated its largest sale in 100 years, on bookings that are made before 20 February. In addition, the travel company has extended the Kuoni Worldwide 2009 brochure through March of 2010 to help generate early bookings for 2010.

The upmarket travel company released its long-haul report for 2009 this week, noting: “These are challenging times, but all the research shows that holidays are still a priority and, more than ever, people are looking for good value. They may be downgrading, for example, from a five-star to a four-star property, or taking a shorter trip, but customers are still travelling.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/long-haul-holiday-bookings-down-20-per-cent-5634136.html


Linkback - Long haul holiday bookings down 20 per cent
]]> 1/28/2009 6:38:07 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5306 5306
Westgate, which has already cut about 4,000 employees, mostly in sales and marketing due to the economic crisis has been said to be struggling.

I’m waiting to speak to David Siegel, founder and CEO of the company, and expect a return call from him shortly.

An old time traditional timeshare company, Westgate has beautiful resorts in Florida, most in the Orlando area. In recent years they have expanded to Las Vegas and Park City.

Where the “flags” (the branded resort companies like Hyatt and Hilton), have softened their sales presentation, Seigel at a meeting a few years ago defended the old school hard sell that used to be common in the timeshare industry.

I’m paraphrasing a bit, but Siegel pointed out that the traditional hospitality companies had a business relationship with the sales prospect even if they did not buy timeshare. His company did not. “They’re buying or they’re crying” was his philosophy for the sales table.
I'm just speculatiing, but It's entirely possible that the fine to the FTC is a cost of doing business, like Fedex expects a certain amount of parking tickets on its vans.

My most recent personal visit was a couple of years ago, and I don’t think the philosophy has changed much. It must be said, Westgate has many happy loyal owners, and deservedly so. They have nice resorts with a lot of desirable features.

In my experience, Westgate typifies what I have often said about timeshare, it is a terrific product, sold through a distasteful process.

http://www.examiner.com/x-773-Timeshare-Examiner~y2009m1d27-Westgate-Resorts-pays-almost-a-million-dollars-for-Do-Not-Call-violation


Linkback - Westgate fined for "Do Not Call" violation
]]> 1/28/2009 6:35:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5305 5305
Bluegreen timeshares is planning to issue Visa-branded cards as an incentive for potential timeshare buyers. Peter J. Quadagno, the president of Maverick, announced that Bluegreen will be launching the card sometime in the upcoming weeks.

The move speaks highly of the company. Despite the looming recession, the company is still investing in new ways to attract clients. This move is also reflects how a serious economic downturn can redefine the industry.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20090127275/Latest/Bluegreen-Timeshare-develops-innovative-ways-to-combat-recession.html


Linkback - Bluegreen develops ways to combat recession
]]> 1/28/2009 6:31:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5304 5304 Diamond Resorts International® Launches University of Excellence

Hospitality Leader Creates Platform to Focus on Training and Development for Customer Service Delivery


LAS VEGAS, Nev., (January 27, 2009) - DIAMOND RESORTS INTERNATIONAL® (DRI), a global leader in the holiday ownership industry, has today announced the launch of the DRI University of Excellence to provide professional and personal development for its global workforce.


DRI continues to be at the forefront of the holiday ownership industry with its commitment to delivering branded hospitality service to its owners, members and guests worldwide through the brand tenets of simplicity, choice and comfort. And now, the DRI University of Excellence offers a curriculum of courses and programmes for its workforce on effective leadership, organizational management, policy and procedure training and product overviews - all intended to improve efficiencies and maintain a quality standard of customer service delivery.


“Delivery of a branded hospitality service is pivotal to DRI’s consumer-centric focus and our long term sustainable competitive advantage in the global industry,” says Simon Crawford-Welch, Ph.D., RRP, President and Chief Operating Officer at Diamond Resorts International®. “Our ‘DRIving the Guest Experience’ programme has been specifically created to exceed the expectations of both our internal and external customers. Customer service standards as well as recovery measures and practices will be offered to all team members through this programme.”


The DRI University of Excellence will be available to all team members of the Diamond Resorts International® family and in addition to in-person training modules, webinars and online learning portals; the programme will also utilize targeted translations of materials and workbooks to meet the needs of team members on a global scale.


Diamond Resorts International®, with global headquarters in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest holiday ownership companies in the world with nearly 150 branded and affiliated resorts and more than 23,000 guest beds in 21 countries with destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia and Australia. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to more than 380,000 owners and members through the branded hospitality service of more than 5,500 team members worldwide, Diamond Resorts International® is dedicated to providing its guests with effortless and relaxing holiday experiences every time, for a lifetime.



Linkback - Press Release - 28 Jan 2009
]]> 1/28/2009 6:29:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5303 5303
The airline cited currency movements for the eight per cent increase in costs other than fuel, as compared with the five per cent estimated earlier.

Results for the carrier’s third quarter, ending 31 December, showed an operating loss amounting to £50 million, making it likely that the deficit for the year ending on 31 March will reach £150 million.

The drop in the value of the pound has impacted the airline in aircraft leasing, in particular, which is paid for in US dollars.

The airline added: “Further economic weakness in January and the outlook for February and March combined with the fall in sterling, are impacting our outlook for the year ended March 31 2009.”

Revenue guidance for the year remains unchanged, the carrier noted, with a four per cent year-on-year increase expected. It is also anticipated that fuel cost estimates will remain unchanged, at approximately £3 billion, as lower fuel prices are offset by a reduction in hedging benefits and currency exchange impacts.

In November, BA said that it was hoping to make a small profit in its 2008-2009 financial year.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/ba-warning-of-150-million-pound-loss-for-year-5634134.html


Linkback - BA warning of 150 million pound loss for year
]]> 1/28/2009 6:28:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5302 5302 is the sole responsible for the existance of the resame scams, read here why:
http://fuengirolarentals.net/2009/01/27/timeshare-in-spain/

Wolfgang Brand


Linkback - The timeshare industrie
]]> 1/27/2009 9:48:54 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5301 5301 Guess what it is:



6 points for a correct answer.

Answer to be revealed 1st Feb unless correctly guessed beforehand.



Linkback - guess what it is - 26 Jan
]]> 1/26/2009 8:28:25 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5300 5300
5000 points free of charge, recipient to pay transfer fee and 2009 management charge only.

aland(at)rossendalem3.org

Linkback - FOC/to give away 5000 points
]]> 1/26/2009 3:45:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5299 5299
The Holiday Presentation Centre had been raided by the police as a part of a trading standards investigation of holiday selling schemes. According to reports, the Devon Trading Standards team set out to issue entry warrants in seven locations, including the Holiday Presentation Centre. The warrants were backed by allegations of breaches in Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations and sale of holiday ownership schemes. Sources say that inquiries about the investigation are ongoing.

This is not the first time this has happened. Over the past years, there have been numerous timeshare sales presentations in this location. Research suggests that it is the same company—it just operates in different names.

If you are buying a timeshare in England, you can double check your dealer at UK’s Consumer Direct (Tel. No. 08454-04-05-06).

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20090115269/Latest/Police-investigate-timeshare-scandal-in-England.html


Linkback - Police investigate timeshare scandal in England
]]> 1/26/2009 6:26:55 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5298 5298
Developers and brokers say that they can no longer sell timeshare units with the convenient loan plans they used to have. Plus, timeshare companies across the US are slashing the personnel. This makes selling and service all the more harder.

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports, “Bluegreen Corp. of Boca Raton…just laid off 2,300 people nationwide from a workforce that reached 6,800 at its peak. And it expects to reduce timeshare sales by roughly 60 percent this year.”

While developers continue to pull their hair out, timeshare owners are less affected. Speculators say that the re-sale values of timeshares are stable.

The downturn of the industry comes as a great surprise to many. Timeshares have grown tremendously in the past two years. It even weathered the 9-11 attacks with robust numbers. But the 2009 recession is simply clobbering the once blooming industry.

“Timeshares have always been the little engine that could — until the credit markets froze,” claims Howard Nusbaum, president of the American Resort Development Association. “We feel kind of like victims,” he says.

Nusbaum predicts that US timeshares will decline 20-25 percent by the end of this year.

To minimize the effects, industry representatives are now requesting assistance from Washington’s Troubled Asset Relief Program. If they are approved, the industry will have enough backing to—hopefully—reverse their misfortune.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20090123274/Latest/Credit-Crisis-slows-down-timeshare-industry.html


Linkback - Credit Crisis slows down timeshare industry
]]> 1/26/2009 6:25:22 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5297 5297
The new Ocean Hotel will open at the operator’s Bognor Regis resort in August and is part of a £100 million investment being made over six years.

Managing director Richard Bates said the 15% sales increase had been driven by regular customers taking advantage of early booking offers. He also said Butlins could further benefit from the economic downturn.

Bates added: “The hotel’s launch is coming at the right time as we see people changing their holiday habits and they might just want to book into the high end at Butlins and that is the Ocean Hotel.”

The new hotel features 200 rooms including 110 family rooms while 75% will have a balcony.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2009/01/23/30061/butlins-announces-plans-for-20m-hotel.html


Linkback - Butlins announces plans for £20m hotel
]]> 1/26/2009 6:24:15 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5296 5296
The airline’s growth in the first quarter was focused on Gatwick and bases in Italy, France and Spain. Capacity in terms of seats flown increased by 37% at Gatwick, 75% at Milan, 33% at Paris and 23% at Madrid.

Overall, easyJet passenger numbers grew by 10.1% in the first quarter to 10.1 million. The airline now has 51% of its customers originating from outside the UK, compared to 43% in the first quarter of financial year 2007.

easyJet decided to reduce capacity at some weaker performing bases, for example Stansted airport where capacity was cut by 17% in the past quarter. The airline’s base at Dortmund was closed in October 2008.

Revenue grew by 32% to £550 million and total revenue per seat was up by 23% to £45.57. Ancillary revenues increased by a whopping 71% per seat to £8.68. Increases in checked bag charges plus better performance by in-flight products including food and beverages were largely responsible.

easyJet says that revenue growth in the first quarter was ahead of expectations and that forward bookings over the second and third quarters are in line with last year.

During the summer the number of seats available on short haul routes in Europe overall is expected to contract by 4 to 5%, but easyJet says it expects to increase capacity in the second half “by low single digit percent”. The airline says it will continue to focus growth on market opportunities at Gatwick airport and in mainland Europe.

“easyJet revenues for the first half will be ahead of previous guidance, although the unit revenue outlook for the summer remains uncertain due to the difficult macro-economic environment and any potential impact from the strengthening of the euro against sterling,” comments easyJet chief executive, Andy Harrison.

“Consequently, easyJet reiterates guidance that for the full year at current fuel and exchange rates easyJet expects to be profitable,“ Harrison concludes.

http://www.holidayextras.co.uk/news/airport/easyjet-grows-at-gatwick-4805.html


Linkback - easyJet grows at Gatwick
]]> 1/26/2009 6:23:18 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5295 5295
Figures from the recent Travel Trends report from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) show that the number of Brits visiting Egypt has risen by 38% in the last year.

The popularity of holidays in Egypt is set to continue this year as holidaymakers look for good value destinations outside the eurozone and guaranteed good weather.

One of the tour operators expecting a boom in Egyptian holidays is First Choice. This summer the company will offer daily flights to Egypt and holidays at a choice of seven Red Sea resorts. Holidays are also offered exploring the timeless beauty of the River Nile.

For the first time this year First Choice is offering holidays at the up-and-coming Red Sea resort of Marsa Alam. The resort offers powdery white sands and diving holidays discovering the exquisite coral reefs.

First Choice currently has a 7 night holiday staying at the 4 Sun Dreams Beach in Marsa Alam from just £689 per adult, £339 for first child and £489 for second child based on two adults and two children sharing departing from Gatwick airport on July 29th. The hotel boasts nine swimming pools and five restaurants and is suitable for families.

For anyone planning to get married abroad who is looking for a flight time of less than six hours, First Choice recommends you follow in the foot steps of Spice Girl Mel B who got hitched to Stephen Belafonte in the Red Sea resort of Hurghada last November in a four-day wedding extravaganza.

If you enjoy history and culture rather than diving or lazing on a beach, First Choice also has holidays based in Luxor which provides a suitable base for exploring some of the treasures of this fascinating country. From Luxor you can visit the Tomb of Tutankhamun, the Temple of Karnak, the Avenue of the Sphinxes, and the Valley of the Kings.

Flights with First Choice are available from various UK airports including Gatwick, Luton, Stansted, Birmingham, Manchester, East Midlands, Bristol, Cardiff, and Newcastle.

http://www.holidayextras.co.uk/news/destination/holidays-to-egypt-are-booming-3386.html


Linkback - Holidays to Egypt are booming
]]> 1/26/2009 6:18:22 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5294 5294
London’s mayor delivered his comments at a public debate that was organised by City Hall. Featured at the venue was a platform on which an empty chair was place, with Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s name on it.

Last week Johnson challenged the prime minister to defend his government’s decision to allow for the expansion at Heathrow.

Johnson has pledged £15,000 to a fund established to mount a legal challenge against the decision. He said at the debate held in west London that the third runway would not be built “because we are working flat out to oppose it.”

When the mayor was asked by a member of the audience about making such a promise, he added: “I have absolutely no doubt that the legal, planning, environmental objections will prove that it will be extremely difficult for it to happen in the next 10, 12, 15 years, but even if there were no legal challenge and even if the Labour government were going ahead with this plan, I am afraid that they would find another obstacle at some stage over the next 18 months.”

He added: “They face one obstacle over which Gordon Brown will not be able to jump and that is the electorate and … that is why I believe it will not happen.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/boris-johnson-says-heathrow-runway-will-not-be-built-5634123.html


Linkback - Boris says Heathrow runway will not be built
]]> 1/26/2009 6:16:55 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5293 5293
Linkback - Whitsun week in Turkey for rent
]]> 1/25/2009 7:12:04 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5292 5292
Linkback - whitsun week 2009 for rent in turkey
]]> 1/25/2009 6:54:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5291 5291
Linkback - Timeshare helpline limited
]]> 1/24/2009 3:25:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5290 5290 They claim to be seling Timeshare points or weeks to corporate clients.
You attend a meeting in either York or Maidstone during which an offer may be made to buy your timeshare.
The usal promise of no deposit os required to complete the sale is made.
Companies House shows this company incorporated 20/08/2008.

Linkback - EXCLUSIVE CONCIERGE SERVICES LIMITED
]]> 1/24/2009 2:40:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5289 5289

"The UK has slid officially into its worst recession for 29 years, as Gordon Brown, the Prime Minister, admitted that he had failed to see the economic crisis coming."

The 10 year (or so) bubble has finally burst ! Has it affected you in any way ? What are you doing to protect yourself ?

Let this thread be a way of telling other members how to save the pennies and maybe we can get through this next year (or two as they speculate) with as little personal problems and suffering as possible.





Linkback - It's official - We're in a recession
]]> 1/23/2009 7:44:28 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5288 5288
In the 1969 movie's famous final scene, the gang of robbers find themselves trapped at one end of a bus teetering precariously over the side of a cliff while their stolen gold bullion is at the other end.

"Hang on a minute lads, I've got a great idea," says Charlie Croker, the gang's leader played by actor Michael Caine.

Now, the winner of a competition run by Britain's Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) might have solved the riddle of getting the gang and the gold out safely.

John Godwin came up with a three-pronged strategy to redistribute the weight-balance in the bus by knocking out the windows and draining the fuel tanks.

This would allow one of the gang to get out and load rocks on the bus, making the bus safe and allowing the gold to be rescued from the bus.

The RSC said it had picked out Godwin's theory from about 2,000 entries it had received which ranged from the ingenious, devious and quirky to the "frankly outrageous."

"Mr Godwin's entry is just the kind of practical thinking Croker would have used -- but he ably demonstrates the science behind the idea as well," said Dr Richard Pike, the RSC's chief executive.

In the film Croker's gang steal the gold from a convoy in the Italian city of Turin and make a daring escape in three Mini cars, driving down staircases and over rooftops in famous chase scenes.

But as they head to Switzerland on an isolated winding mountain road, the bus they are now in skids, leaving the gang, and the gold, dangling over the side of the cliff.

Godwin, who won a holiday to Turin, said the gang would have faced a new problem after escaping from the bus.

"What happens then?" he wrote in his solution.

"Separate problem I suppose, but waiting for a passing motorist and either hijacking (feels quite bad) or buying their vehicle with stolen gold (still feels bad, but less damage and no blood) would see the men on their way to Switzerland."






Linkback - "The Italian Job" ending finally solved
]]> 1/23/2009 7:40:37 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5287 5287
Please if you consider that you have been cheated by Global Vacations send your complaints to the European Consumer Centre in Madrid. They are fluent English speakers.


EUROPEAN CONSUMER CENTRE
Príncipe de Vergara, 54
28006 Madrid (España)
Tfno: +34 918 224 555
Fax: + 34 918 224 562
Mail: cec@consumo-inc.es

Linkback - Global Vacations Limited Shut Down
]]> 1/23/2009 6:55:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5286 5286 Never to heard of again..........
Be warned

I have today sent a letter to the credit card company to try to claw my money back as a scam under Consumer Credit Act 1974 section 75

Will let you know if I have success

Linkback - Greystone Leisure
]]> 1/23/2009 4:56:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5285 5285 DIAMOND RESORTS INTERNATIONAL® EXPANDS GLOBAL FOOTPRINT IN IRELAND, ASIA and AUSTRALIA
DRI Continues to Add Affiliations with Increased Canal Boat Excursions throughout Great Britain
LAS VEGAS, Nev., (January 22, 2009) - (PRWEB <<http://www.prweb.com/>>) DIAMOND RESORTS INTERNATIONAL® (DRI), a global leader in the vacation ownership industry, has expanded operations into County Clare, Ireland, and added a variety of resort destinations in Asia including China, Thailand, Bali, Indonesia and the popular coastal region of Goa, India, along the Arabian Sea. Additionally, resort destinations now include Queensland and New South Wales, Australia, as well as new waterway routes for canal boat journeys throughout Great Britain.

The DRI destination portfolio has expanded its global footprint with three resort acquisitions situated among the castles and cliffs of County Clare, Ireland. Cottages dot the Atlantic Coast against calming inlets teeming with quaint shops and pubs and provide easy access to a variety of golf and sightseeing choices. On the continent of Asia, DRI has added 14 resort affiliations. Destinations throughout Thailand and Bali provide customers with a variety of experiences including secluded beach getaways, enchanting spa retreats and the hospitable taste of Indonesia. In Beijing, China, members can stay just five blocks from historic Tiananmen Square. Additionally, DRI now offers three resort choices along the Arabian Sea in the tropical zone of Goa, India. Visitors to awe-inspiring Australia can choose from three resort destinations: overlooking the ever-popular Coolangatta Beach; enjoying easy access to the Great Barrier Reef; or staying on the famed Gold Coast-most notably a surfer’s paradise.

“Our owners, members and guests continue to express interest in having more destination choices,” says Simon Crawford-Welch, Ph.D., RRP, President and Chief Operating Officer, “and at Diamond Resorts International®, we’re listening to our customers and taking action to ensure they are getting what they want and moreover, what they deserve from a vacation ownership company.”

Committed to providing owners, members and guests with the simplicity, choice and comfort they deserve, DRI has poised itself as a competitive worldwide hospitality brand. Key strategic components that continue to position DRI as a leader in the vacation ownership and hospitality industries include an open communications platform and transparent organizational structure, centralized and consolidated efficiencies, the ongoing interaction of an Owner Advisory Board and a hands-on executive management approach where leadership is empowered to ensure the delivery of branded hospitality service.

THE ClubSM at DRI is a flexible, points-based exchange program that provides members with resort stays, travel services including cruises, air mileage programs, flights, and a variety of additional benefits, products and discounts. “While many companies are downsizing and cutting back during these challenging times, Diamond Resorts International® continues to expand and seek efficiencies in all facets of its operations,” Crawford-Welch says. “Now, more than ever before, DRI is helping families enjoy the benefits of vacation ownership and the importance of spending time with each other.”

Diamond Resorts International®, with global headquarters in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest vacation ownership companies in the world with nearly 150 branded and affiliated resorts and more than 23,000 guest beds in 21 countries with destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia and Australia. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to more than 380,000 owners and members through the branded hospitality service of more than 5,500 team members worldwide, Diamond Resorts International® is dedicated to providing its guests with effortless and relaxing vacation experiences every time, for a lifetime. To learn more, visit DiamondResorts.com <<http://www.diamondresorts.com/>>.




please consider the environment before printing this email

CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This email transmission, including any attached files, may contain confidential information and is intended only for use by the individual(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination, distribution or duplication of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply email and destroy the original transmission and attachments without reading or saving in any manner. Thank you.




Linkback - DRI NEWS!!
]]> 1/23/2009 12:05:25 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5284 5284 21st January 2009-01-21

We would like to address some concerns that have been voiced on various blogs regarding maintenance fees and various other queries. While we prefer, and actively encourage members to contact us directly through our customer service departments by phone, letter, email and our own member’s online forum, we understand that some people will utilise certain websites to raise points for discussion. Invariably though, those sites cannot respond and provide the information necessary to address that members’ concerns, and so inaccurate information can easily circulate, We hope that this full and open letter to members using these sites will satisfy those questions and promote direct contact with Diamond Resorts International®.

With regard to the increase in maintenance fees, as all our communication to members has explained, there were a combination of reasons for the increase, namely:

• Continued funding the refurbishment programme in the resorts, as agreed with the individual resort committees
• Increased labour costs in the Spanish resorts, based on negotiations between the Unions and the Hotel Associations.
• The continued rise in General ‘household’ running costs, (and utilities in particular) which we have had to factor into the charges
• The apportionment of corporate charges for services such as legal, IT, etc.
• The apportionment of costs for accommodation units that are not available for use as they are utilized for luggage storage, office space, housekeeping, etc. and on which (historically) Diamond Resorts International® has paid the full management charges
• The poor exchange rate (from sterling to euro).

It is important to understand that the increase in fees also directly impacts Diamond Resort (Europe) Ltd. as this entity owns approximately 10% of the inventory in the European Collection and therefore pays this proportion of the maintenance fees too. For obvious reasons, it remains in the interests of DRI to keep the costs of the maintenance fees as low as possible. That said, we must continue to invest in the resorts, continue with the refurbishment plans and ensure we offer and deliver the holidays that our members expect and desire.

CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This email transmission, including any attached files, may contain confidential information and is intended only for use by the individual(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination, distribution or duplication of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply email and destroy the original transmission and attachments without reading or saving in any manner. Thank you.



Linkback - Further Clarification on Management Fees
]]> 1/23/2009 12:01:17 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5283 5283
Officials are denying the validity of newspaper reports saying that 500 airport staff have been put a 90-day consultation period, however, and that as many as 240 jobs are threatened.

Workers at the Scottish airport were informed about the review, which management has just begun. Officials are saying that they remain “optimistic” about Prestwick airport’s long-term prospects and that job cuts are not “a foregone conclusion.”

Prestwick Airport’s chief executive, Mark Rodwell, commented: “As economic conditions worsen, like most other businesses, we are reviewing our operation in an effort to maximise profitability and respond to changing business needs. We have entered into a review process to look for ways to deliver efficiencies, cost savings and revenue improvements.”

He went on to say: “Our business development team is working hard to offset the recent loss of freight and charter traffic by exploring a number of opportunities with potential new airlines. While these are difficult times we are optimistic about the long-term future of the airport and the aviation industry as a whole, which has always recovered well in the past.”

Rodwell noted that passenger services were “strong” in 2008 but that a “difficult year with many challenges” was expected in 2009.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/prestwick-airport-not-ruling-out-job-cuts-5634118.html


Linkback - Prestwick airport not ruling out job cuts
]]> 1/23/2009 6:20:03 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5282 5282
Hilton timeshare has laid off 187 employees over the course of the last six months. Yet, reports confirm that the company is actually expanding. Its resort in Orlando is actually launching the first phase of its newest project: Club Parc Soleil (a 7-phase project in the busiest tourist area of Orlando).

The company, as reports claimed, is currently building a new Hilton hotel in Orlando’s renowned International Drive. Hilton is also continuing the construction of the 1400 Orlando Hilton—a vacation place that is scheduled to open this year.

As of press time, the Hilton timeshare company did not release any statements regarding the issue.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20090122272/Latest/Hilton-timeshare-lays-off-personnel-amidst-expansion-plans.html


Linkback - Hilton timeshare lays off personnel
]]> 1/23/2009 6:16:34 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5281 5281
John Maloney—chief executive of Bluegreen—said that they will reduce approximately 60 percent of the company’s timeshare sales and development team sometime this year.

If you look back at Bluegreen timeshare’s past performance, you’d be surprised how quickly things turned for the company.

In July 2008, Bluegreen timeshare stocks were pegged at more than $12 per share. In fact, the developer of the resort—Diamond Resorts—was aiming to acquire Bluegreen at $15 per share plus all outstanding debt.

Many reports confirmed that the timeshare industry was doing well despite the economic credit crunch. Timeshare resale values had double-digit interest rates that sometimes exceeded 20 percent. However, as John Maloney aptly put it, “the music stopped.”

With a tighter credit market, timeshare companies are being forced to cut back personnel and delay or cancel expansion/growth plans. Now, Bluegreen is aiming to reduce its growth and acquisition budget to $150,000 million.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20090122271/Latest/More-layoffs-at-Bluegreen-Timeshare.html


Linkback - More layoffs at Bluegreen Timeshare
]]> 1/23/2009 6:14:54 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5280 5280
A study by Post Office travel services concluded "exchange rates are still unpredictable" due to the downturn.

It says all-inclusive package deals may become more popular while many tourists may opt to travel off-season.

The pound's value against the euro has slumped over the last year and sterling fell to its weakest level since 1985 against the dollar on Wednesday.

A year ago, a euro cost about 74 pence. It is now about 94 pence and tourist rates can often be worse.

Easter test

The Post Office report said: "If predictions prove accurate, the short breaks sector could come under serious pressure in the coming year as consumers limit themselves to one major holiday.

"The first test of this is likely to come at Easter, traditionally the start of the holiday season when UK tourists head to European cities."

It says foreign shopping trips and luxury holidays are also under threat, while ferry-based holidays may benefit from the economic downturn.

The report suggests other beneficiaries could be all-inclusive package deals, coach tours and camping trips - holidays "where tourists know in advance what their outlay will be".

It says there has been growing interest from holidaymakers in countries such as Turkey, which is not in the eurozone.

Holidaymakers may also try to avoid the traditional peak holiday months of July and August, the study added.

But travel agents remain hopeful the fall in the price of oil, which has an effect on airfares, will encourage more flight bookings.

Sterling fell to its weakest level against the dollar since September 1985 on Wednesday, with the pound touching $1.3622 before rising to $1.4015.

The pound remains weak against the euro, with the single currency worth more than 93.3 pence on Wednesday.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7843886.stm


Linkback - Weak pound 'may wreck holidays'
]]> 1/23/2009 6:13:38 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5279 5279
My Father purchased a membership of "Marco Polo Vacation Club" Ltd back in 2000 for around £8000 supposedly allowing them to holiday anywhere in the world where they had property. [:0]

They signed up for 4 weeks in every year between 2000 & 2020. This has never been used. The company also said at the time they would be paid £400 for the weeks they didn't use. Obviously not seen anything of that. [:(]

in 2006 RMI Consortium took over Marco Polo and asked for a membership fee of £350 which wasn't paid.

Later in 2006 Petchey Leisure wrote informing that they had cancelled the membership as the fee had not been paid although apparently this 'can be reinstated'.

Since 2006 there have been various companies contacting my Dad asking for cash to sell his membership or timeshare or whatever he has bought.

Sorry to be dumb but I really would like to understand a bit more so we can determine what to do next or whether we have lost all the money.

1. can anyone clarify what he actually bought?
2. is there any value in this product now?
3. if there is any value (even minimal) is there anyway to sell legitimately and recoup some of the £8000?
4. would we need to pay the membership fee to realise this value? Is it worth paying that?
5. if not worth or difficult to sell, can anyone advise us on whether it's worth paying the membership fee and using the club in an attempt to get something for the money spent?
6. if this was something we could sell what would be a realistic price and any advice on the best way to proceed (and which company)?

I have read here Aberfoyle Holidays are good to help resell. Can anyone comment on them from a seller experience?

Would really appreciate thoughts and advise on the above as parents could do without this worry.

thanks in advance for any help. [:D]

Jfairhead



Linkback - sell, renew or give up?
]]> 1/22/2009 9:04:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5278 5278 Regards.

Linkback - maintenance
]]> 1/22/2009 4:22:43 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5277 5277
Linkback - IHOC - International Holiday Ownership Consultants
]]> 1/22/2009 8:41:09 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5276 5276
Passengers convicted under the anti-terror regulations include a man who was accused of arguing with a cabin attendant that thought he was engaging in sexual activity and a woman who spanked her children and then threw a can on the floor when a flight attendant confronted her, according to a report in the Los Angeles Times.

“We have gone completely berserk on this issue,” noted New York-based security consultant Charles Slepian. “These are not threats to national security or threats to aircraft, but we use that as an excuse.”

A spokesman for the Justice Department, Dean Boyd, said that convictions are only pursued when circumstances and facts warrant such action. He added that the restraint of such behavior has improved security on board aircraft.

According to federal regulations, flight crews have long had discretion in controlling unruly passengers. The Patriot Act, passed shortly after the September 11 attacks, empowered law enforcement with significant new powers.

One provision classifies any disruptive behavior on board a flight as a terrorist act; and another stipulates than any attempt to interfere with a member of the flight’s crew is a felony.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/aircraft-anti-terror-provisions-invoked-for-disruptive-behavior-5634111.html


Linkback - Anti terror provisions - used for minor offences
]]> 1/21/2009 8:32:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5275 5275
The £5-a-night deals apply to three resorts - the Oasis Papagayo in Fuerteventura, the Babadan apartments in Dalaman, Turkey and the Doa Studios and Apartments in Corfu.
It follows a similar deal in October, although the new promotion covers the busier period of May when the weather is better and Brits have two Bank Holidays.

The Oasis complex is rated 4T on Thomson's own ranking system, making it a more luxurious self catering resort with two large swimming pools, a restaurant and whirlpool bath on site.

All the sites have communal pools and most are near beaches.

It is thought the new promotion could spark a fierce price war leading up to the summer peak to attract Brits planning a "staycation" during the recession.

"January is the time of year when the travel companies put their best offers on sale," a Thomson spokesman said.

"While this is a genuine offer, it is an ad-hoc promotion for a few selected hotels and has limited availability.

"It is in no way indicative of current trading for the business or overall market; however it does represent excellent value for money.

"The travel industry has put less holidays on sale this year so we would advise those looking to go away to book early for the best deals or to travel in low season when some of the best offers are available."

Thomson's discounts follow the announcement earlier this month that Ryanair, the low-cost carrier, would be offering free flights to Italian ski resorts.

They were followed by easyJet, which announced its "biggest ever" sale, offering 25 per cent reductions on 16 million seats over the next four months.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travelnews/4301507/Thomson-offers-5-a-night-holidays.html


Linkback - Thomson offers £5-a-night holidays
]]> 1/21/2009 8:26:16 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5274 5274
I recently inherited a timeshare in Tenerife that I had no interest in using (let alone the money to afford the maintenance payments!). I just wanted a quick sell so I contacted the first resale company I found who told me confidently that they would be able to sell my timeshare, if I paid a hefty upfront fee. Given the price I was told I could get for the timeshare I reluctantly agreed. Now I am experiencing the same series of events that I have found here described in the blogs – I’ve been told over the phone that a corporate buyer has been found and that I will have to go to Spain at my expense to seal the deal.

I am not sure what to do – I am eager to get this property off my hands, so I would be inclined to go to Spain if that was a genuine possibility. Can anyone recommend anyone I can go to to seek advice before proceeding?



Linkback - Inherited timeshare
]]> 1/21/2009 7:02:27 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5273 5273
We would love to hear from anyone who has sold their Timeshare via Ebay...

We have just sold one of our Timeshares privately on Ebay and are a bit nervous about what could go wrong?? We are waiting to hear from Royal Goan (the company we brought our T/S from) as to what paper work we need to get the new owners to sign. We believe we have to send them the certificate of ownership, get them to sign it, send it back to us and then we will sign it and post it on to Royal Goan.

We already have their payment but I guess we are just anxious, getting to this point has taken months and we have avoided many scams in the process. You never know who you are dealing with and there is concern over us sending our certificate of ownership away although we know they need to sign the back of it.

Has anyone else been through this with a private sale on Ebay? How did it go? Is there anything we can do to make sure it all goes to plan?

Thanks as always!!

Linkback - Anyone sold on EBAY?
]]> 1/21/2009 5:46:16 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5272 5272
I am writing an article on Timeshare Scams with hope of getting this information out to the 7million Timeshare owners world-wide. With these present economic circumstances, the thought of some quick easy cash for your Timeshare makes these scams easier to fall for and easier to believe.

I ask if any one of you have come into contact with a scam, received a phone call or letter and paid money under false promises that your Timeshare will be sold for substantial amounts more then you paid. This of course will be backed up with the guarantee that the cash will be with you in weeks, only to find months later you still own your Timeshare and are still out of product.

Please email your experience to timesharescam@gmail.com I ask that no company names be mentioned I would like you to focus more on the experience, what was said, how much you paid and how you felt afterwards, and if you were still called with more promises about your Timeshare being sold. My article is not to slant any of these crooks but more to spread a message and to keep Timeshare owners aware. This article will be available world-wide for Owners to read. Please add your name, only last if you wish and where you are writing from.


Linkback - Timeshare Scams
]]> 1/21/2009 9:33:25 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5271 5271 TATOC, a timeshare association, is the only elected consumers association that represents timeshare owners in Europe.

Last month, the association froze membership fees at the 2008 rate, despite the expected credit crunch for 2009. “During our recent strategy meeting and despite the fact that the Association needs funds to be able to continue its work, it was felt by the Board that in these difficult times we needed to assist our member resorts as much as possible and so there has yet again been no increase in fees” claimed TATOC CEO Taylor.

This is a surprising decision, because the association would greatly benefit from raising membership fees.

TATOC has over 70 member resorts across Europe. These resorts give TATOC access to over 250,000 families in the continent.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20090119270/Latest/TATOC-trail-blazes-timeshare-industry-in-Europe.html


Linkback - TATOC trail blazes timeshare industry in Europe
]]> 1/20/2009 8:39:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5270 5270
Approximately 22,000 people from 79 countries visited the islands in the South Atlantic Ocean since the southern hemisphere cruise season began on October 20.

The tourist board’s general manager, Jake Downing, said he expects an additional 68,000 visitors on cruises to visit the Falklands before the season ends on April 7.

“We are extremely pleased with the season to date. It’s very encouraging that the cruise market is so buoyant particularly in the current economic climate,” Downing said.

Typically the islands are visited on cruise itineraries that include a number of other ports in South America or Antarctica.

Thus far, over 95 per cent of cruise passengers surveyed rated their stopover in the Falklands as “good to excellent.”

During a Falkland Islands stopover, cruise passengers can enjoy battlefield tours, fishing, walking and wildlife viewing.

Nearly 33 per cent of all cruise visitors to the islands come from the US, with other prominent markets including Brazil, Canada, Germany and the UK.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/falkland-islands-report-rise-in-cruise-visitors-5634106.html


Linkback - Falkland Islands report rise in cruise visitors
]]> 1/20/2009 8:37:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5269 5269
Passenger Steve Jeffrey told CNN that he was on board the flight on Tuesday when “it sounded like the wing was just snapping off,” approximately 20 minutes into the flight.

“The red lights started going on. A little pandemonium was going on,” Jeffrey noted.

The passenger said that the incident occurred as the plane was flying over Newark, New Jersey, not long after its take-off from New York’s LaGuardia airport.

“It seemed so loud, like luggage was hitting the side but times a thousand. It startled everyone on the plane,” he added. “We started looking at each other. The stewardesses started running around. They made an announcement that ‘everyone heard the noise, we’re going to turn around and head back to LaGuardia and check out what happened.’”

A spokesperson for US Airways, Valerie Wunder, said: “US Air is working with the National Transportation Safety Board in this investigation.” Although she was not willing to comment further, she did confirm that the airline was looking into the report.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/passengers-report-scare-on-earlier-us-airways-flight-1549-5634108.html


Linkback - Passengers report scare on earlier flight
]]> 1/20/2009 8:36:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5268 5268 The flight attendant, 37-year-old Karin Keegan of Pittsburgh, works for Delta. The airline has an agreement for JetBlue to ferry Delta flight attendants to job assignments on a standby basis.

Keegan's lawsuit said a male JetBlue worker wouldn't let her on a flight in October 2007 because she wasn't dressed provocatively enough, then allowed other flight attendants with less seniority to board the plane.

"Keegan changed into more provocative clothes, but (the employee) told her she was too late to board the plane and should have dressed like that before," said the lawsuit, which was filed Friday in Pittsburgh federal court.

"He wanted her to change to a lower-cut shirt and tighter pants, and wear more makeup before letting her on the plane," Keegan's attorney, Samuel Cordes, said Monday. Delta and JetBlue officials refused to intercede when she complained, the lawsuit said.

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2009-01-19-flight-attendant-sexy-dress_N.htm


Linkback - Flight attendant sues airlines over sexy dress
]]> 1/20/2009 8:35:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5267 5267 Compare the cost of two weeks timeshare in July:
Maintenance £450
Flights £500
Transfer £50 min
Exchange £230
Food and Drink 2 people eating out for dinner say £1000
Total £2230
I have just booked 11days all inclusive 4 star to turkey in July for £1200
Bearing in mind i couldnt get somewhere as good in peak times and all the shopping cooking breakfasts and lunches etc, I cant understand why the resorts aren't half empty.
I know that i could possible sell my timeshare for a pittance but am reluctant to do so but i cant see the point.
Any ideas out there?

Linkback - cost of timeshare
]]> 1/20/2009 8:00:33 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5266 5266
> This one is pretty slick since they provide Y O U with all
> the information, except the one piece they want .
> Note, the callers do not ask for your card number; they
> already have it. This information is worth reading. By
> understanding how the VISA & MasterCard Telephone Credit
> Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect
> yourself.
>
> One of our employees was called on Wednesday from
> "VISA", and I was called on Thursday from
> "MasterCard".
>
> The scam works like this: Person calling says, "This
> is (name), and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud
> Department at VISA. My badge number is 12460. Your card has
> been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm
> calling to verify. This would be on your VISA card which was
> issued by (name of bank) did you purchase an
> Anti-Telemarketing Device for £497.99 from a Marketing
> company based in London ?" When you say "No",
> the caller continues with, "Then we will be issuing a
> credit to your account. This is a company we have been
> watching and the charges range from £297 to £497, just
> under the £500 purchase pattern that flags most cards.
> Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to
> (gives you your address), is that correct?"
>
> You say "yes". The caller continues - "I
> will be starting a fraud investigation. If you have any
> questions, you should call the 0800 number listed on the
> back of your card (0800-VISA) and ask for Security.
>
> You will need to refer to this Control Number. The caller
> then gives you a 6 digit number. "Do you need me to
> read it again?"
>
> Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works the
> caller then says, "I need to verify you are in
> possession of your card." He'll ask you to
> "turn your card over and look for some numbers."
> There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card
> number, the next 3 are the security numbers that verify you
> are the possessor of the card. These are the numbers you
> sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have
> the card. The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to
> him. After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, he'll say,
> "That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card
> has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your
> card. Do you have any other questions?" After you say,
> "No," the caller then thanks you and states,
> "Don't hesitate to call back if you do", and
> hangs up.
>
> You actually say very little, a nd they never ask for or
> tell you the Card number. But after we were called on
> Wednesday, we called back within 20 minutes to ask a
> question. Are we glad we did! The REAL VISA Security
> Department told us it was a scam and in the last 15 minutes
> a new purchase of £497.99 was charged to our card.
>
> Long story - short - we made a real fraud report and closed
> the VISA account. VISA is reissuing us a new number. What
> the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of
> the card. Don't give it to them. Instead, tell them
> you'll call VISA or MasterCard directly for verification
> of their conversation. The real VISA told us that they will
> never ask for anything on the card as they already know the
> information since they issued the card! If you give the
> scammers your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're
> receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your
> statement you'll see charges for purchases you
> didn't make, and by the n it's almost too late
> and/or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.
>
> What makes this more remarkable is that on Thursday, I got
> a call from a "Jason Richardson of MasterCard"
> with a word-for-word repeat of the VISA scam. This time I
> didn't let him finish. I hung up! We filed a police
> report, as instructed by VISA. The police said they are
> taking several of these reports daily!



Linkback - New Credit Card Scam
]]> 1/20/2009 7:19:16 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5265 5265 I want to get rid of them.
I tried with 2 resale companies, paying the upfront advertising fee. NO JOY.
I tried e-bay. NO JOY.
I phoned Diamond Resorts and asked them to just take the weeks back and sell them for themselves. NO JOY.
I have posted an advert on this site. WAIT AND SEE.

I told Diamond Resorts I am not going to pay the Management fees, so they can take the weeks off me.
They told me that they cannot, or would not take them. I am due for the fees and a 10% addition every month that they remain upaid.
After 18 months the weeks will be reposessed, BUT the lad I spoke to did not know if any legal action would be taken.

Does anyone know how I can dump these weeks once and for all????
PLEASE HELP ME.

Linkback - How to dispose of timeshare weeks - HELP
]]> 1/20/2009 11:16:21 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5264 5264 Guess what it is:



12 points for a correct answer (as it's a roll-over)

Answer to be revealed 25th Jan unless correctly guessed beforehand.



Linkback - Guess what it is - 19 Jan
]]> 1/19/2009 10:33:24 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5263 5263
It is a 1 bedroom unit which sleeps up to 4.

It should appear immediately in availability.

Linkback - Kenmore Club
]]> 1/19/2009 6:57:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5262 5262


Linkback - T-Mobile & Liverpool Street
]]> 1/18/2009 7:34:17 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5261 5261 I hope this isn't a repeat of a post. I am trying to research on behalf of my grandparents who have asked me to have a look!

Basically they have a Timeshare flat at Clube Praia Da Oura, and they got it through the Petchey company. They have had it for about 27/28 years, so a long time! And when they first signed they were told that they would get an amount of money back when they gave it up. This money would come from the Clube and go to Petchey who would give it to my grandparents.
They have looked through their contracts and can't see anything in there about getting money back, so they are starting to wonder if they have been scammed! Their contract is due to end in 2011. And I believe they payed around the sum of £7000.

Has anyone else been told they would get money back? Do you get money back, if so how much? Does anyone have any advice other than speaking to the companies? (I'm hearing not so good things about them!!)

Thanks to anyone who can help!!
Danielle

Linkback - Clube Praia Da Oura, Petchey and Money back?!
]]> 1/18/2009 4:01:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5260 5260 Haathi Mahal offers you a whole range of facilities ranging from restaurants, open air Jacuzzi and 3 pools to massage, gym, gardens & bazaar. Timeshare is a Royal Resort, 1 bedroomed apartment sleeping up to 4 people. The property is banded in the 'red band' but the week can be taken at any time.

Maintenance fees of £350.00 per annum are paid until Jan 2010. All that’s required is a signature in order to secure transfer of ownership. Genuine reason for resale due to no longer being able to make use of the Timeshare.

An excellent opportunity for anyone looking for Timeshare accommodation in Goa, and other areas, with a reputable company. Not only is this the perfect time to visit Goa, a BONUS WEEK is also available to use FREE OF CHARGE, as we did not utilise this ourselves last year!!

For further details please visit:www.haathimahal.com or for more information feel free to email me, Thanks Marinman.



Linkback - Haathi Mahal - Offers please?
]]> 1/18/2009 2:06:31 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5259 5259
Has anyone heard of any of the following please?

Worldwide Timeshare Hypermarket
WWTH 2nd Floor, Woodland Point Wootton Mount, Bournemouth BH1 1PJ
UK Tel: 0870 4431466 Fax: 0870 4431477
Website: www.timeshare-hypermarket.com

Timeshare Computer Link Ltd
Codec House, 5 Newbold Street Royal Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 4HN, UK Tel: 01926 844242 Fax: 01926 316833
Website: www.timeshare.uk.net

They also listed the following as being Internet websites dealing in Timeshare resale and number 3 as being somewhere to rent out the Timeshare as an alternative to selling…

1. www.redweek.com
2. www.timeshareconsultancy.com
3. www.amchogoa.com

Linkback - List of Timeshare resellers
]]> 1/18/2009 1:35:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5258 5258 TIMESHARE operator Diamond Resort International has stepped in to defend its record as opposition mounts to increases in management fees due to be paid this month.
President Simon Crawford-Welch has assured members of his timeshare points club that their concerns will be taken seriously.

He said: "Listening to and communicating with our owner and member base is always a primary component of our strategic direction and consumer-centric operational approach, be it through one-on-one discussions, various forums, e-mails or through third party mechanisms such as newspapers like Scotland on Sunday."

As a points-based timeshare club, owners can use their points to buy holidays at any of the 133 worldwide resorts, which even disgruntled points-owners admit are of a very high standard. Members are also protected by timeshare legislation.

Facilities have expanded considerably since the original owner Grand Vacation Club, from which many Scottish consumers bought their points, started with only four resorts. Diamond Resorts International acquired the company in April 2007.

Points owners are obliged to pay an annual management charge and it is recent increases in these fees which has caused concern. Open meetings between the company and members in Lancashire on February 2 and Staffordshire on February 3 look set to be stormy.

Members claim they have risen by around 37% compared with last year, although DRI maintains that on average the increases are closer to 19%. The discrepancy may be due to an interim levy last May. As such, compared with the levy in January 2008, the increase may be nearer to 37% for some members but only 19% when the fees for the whole of 2008 are compared with those being demanded this month.

The company points out that the fees are discussed and agreed by members of the owner committees at every resort. DRI is effectively a management company.

The points club, which in Europe is called the Diamond Resorts European Collection, is owned by the points owners in that investments and assets are held in a trust controlled by an independent trustee and operated for their benefit. In Europe, DRI owns 10% of the points, with private owners controlling the remaining 90%.

DRI's European director of legal services, Susan Crook said: "The setting of the budgets is a transparent procedure. Every report committee is provided with a detailed draft budget at a dedicated budget meeting and committee members are able to discuss, dissect and amend them as appropriate. There are a minimum of two timeshare owners on each committee with fixed property or fixed week timeshare and one points owner. The maximum company representation is two. The majority of the members that make up the committees are British."

She said that fees had increased to fund a refurbishment programme, bills had climbed in general, particularly utilities, and labour costs in Spanish resorts had soared following new agreements with the unions.

But she confirmed, as Scotland on Sunday reported last week, that the annual charges had been subsidised by the previous management company and this subsidy had now ceased.

She said: "The new owner, Stephen Cloobeck, did not feel it was appropriate to subsidise the management charges. If expenses are legitimately incurred for the benefit of the resorts then he believed that the members should pay them."

An action group of more than 40 members has now formed in Scotland and plans to join forces with another larger group operating south of the border.

They remain unhappy with the fee increases, and many would like to rescind their points, but the company says this is against the terms and conditions which they signed when they joined.

According to the company, they can dispose of their points, by selling them, giving them away or converting them to a fixed week and trying to sell this via a resale agent.

Crook said: "We note that some members say they are unable to sell their points. However, we continue to sell our product successfully to new members and have some difficulty in accepting that they are unable to do so."

Members are only able to rescind their points if someone dies, becomes bankrupt, is over 75 or has health problems.

Crook added: "DRI is prepared to listen and consider every member's request to relinquish his or her membership. Indeed, we believe we are more considerate in taking into account the personal circumstances of our members than most other businesses who have entered long-term contractual and financial commitments."

Nevertheless, many members are very unhappy at being tied into what they see as an open-ended arrangement, which locks them into rising management fees until 2054. They are adamant this risk was never pointed out to them when they bought their points. Particularly badly hit are any owners who took out loans to buy into the club.

http://scotlandonsunday.scotsman.com/business/Diamond-Resort-defends-decision-to.4887477.jp


Linkback - Diamond Resort defends decision to increase fees
]]> 1/18/2009 1:01:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5257 5257
A series of microsites will be also be launched, one of which, www.timeshareactive.com is now live. This site provides ideas about exciting destinations throughout the world that timeshare owners can visit.

Gotimeshare.org has been set up by the Organisation for Timeshare in Europe (OTE) the pan European trade body, to promote the best that the industry has to offer. The site is aimed at a Europe wide audience and a number of key articles will be translated into Spanish, French, German, Italian, Hungarian and Greek.

Commenting on the launch of the site, OTE chief executive Paul Gardner-Bougaard said: “gotimeshare.org is a great resource for holiday makers who want to try out new ways of taking holidays. It gives consumers a step-by-step guide to how timeshare works and gives advice for people interested in this popular form of taking holidays.

“It is also full of useful information for people looking to find out more about the range and quality of timeshare resorts now available throughout Europe. With new and exciting forms of holiday ownership, such as fractional ownership, increasingly available, now is an exciting time for someone to be looking at shared holiday ownership options.”

Ends

More about OTE

OTE is the pan-European trade association representing the timeshare industry throughout Europe. It promotes best practice in the industry for the benefit of both consumers and the industry. All members are bound by a code of ethics that ensures the protection of consumers' rights. OTE provides information and advice to consumers and offers a free conciliation service to consumers dealing with its members.

OTE represents the majority of timeshare companies in Europe which are responsible for some 65-70% of all timeshare sales. These include major hospitality groups such as De Vere, Hilton, Sol Melia, and large independent timeshare developers, namely the Petchey Leisure Group, Club La Costa and Seasons Holidays.

http://www.bignews.biz/?id=792556&keys=timeshare-holiday-vacation-fractional


Linkback - New website launches to show the best of timeshare
]]> 1/17/2009 8:34:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5256 5256
"I have three boys in college. What am I going to do? I've got to go to work," said Bob Waulters, a Hyatt Vacation Club sales rep who lost his job last week.

Waulters, age 60, left his wife and kids to work for the Hyatt, moving from St. Augustine to Key West about six weeks ago.

"I thought I had a future here," Waulters said. "I have nothing. I'm going to go to work at Winn Dixie stocking shelves. It's hard to be happy. I wanted to make this a career."

Waulters worked a booth at the corner of Caroline and Duval streets in Old Town Key West. His job was to entice passersby, with promises of cash or coupons, to take a tour of the Hyatt's timeshare property, Windward Pointe, located near Key West International Airport on S. Roosevelt Blvd.

Windward Pointe is operated by Hyatt and owned by Key West-based Spottswood Companies, Inc., which also owns the Marriot Beachside Hotel, the Coconut Beach Resort, the Holiday Inn and the Comfort Inn, all in Key West.

The Windward Pointe property, built in 2001, has 104 two-bedroom, two-bath units that are priced according to the season. Hyatt divides the year into five seasons: The cheapest buy-in for one week of unit ownership is just under $10,000; the highest, around Christmas and Fantasy Fest, is about $30,000.

"We don't typically comment a lot on these types of things," said Larry Shulman, a senior vice president at Hyatt's Beverly Hills office, when asked about the layoffs. The Hyatt Vacation Club, he said, is "No different than any business across the country...we've had to revisit our business model and downsize."

Data from the Monroe County Property Appraiser's office shows sales of timeshares at Windward Pointe in 2008 were half what they were in 2007.

Just 263 timeshares sold in 2008, compared to 583 in 2007, though the average sale price actually increased slightly in 2008 to $21,551.

Waulters says he was shocked to be out of a job, but had noticed that street-level interest in touring a timeshare property was on the decline. He says people seemed to be spending less time on vacation and packing more in, with no time to get over to see Windward Pointe, next to the airport in Key West.

Waulters said the Hyatt paid him $6.79 per hour plus $50 for every time-share tour he booked.

"I'm done. I'm going to have to go to unemployment. It's sad," he said, noting that he's especially sorry to leave Key West. "I loved every minute of it," he said last week.

"They're in a hurry to get as much out of their time as possible and they're stressed," Waulters said of the tourists he encountered on Duval Street. "The economy is hitting their vacations. You don't see many smiles going by."

The story was the same at another Hyatt booth, also on Duval Street. Phadra Pryce said she spent $5,000, which she doesn't plan on recouping, moving to Key West from Cocoa Beach.

"I uprooted my whole life to move to Key West to work for the Hyatt," Pryce said. She moved with her young daughter and dependent mother. Pryce placed her mother in the Key West Convalescent Center and she was subsequently relocated to the Plantation Key Convalescent Center when the Key West location closed in early December.

"That's it. We're done." And the timing couldn't have been worse, Pryce said, "Two weeks before our season is getting ready to hit. I don't know."

Schulman said job cuts are happening across the board at many of Hyatt's properties, not just in Key West, and were primarily focused on sales and marketing personnel. About six people lost their jobs in Key West last week. There are about 15 timeshare properties Keys-wide, with seven of those in Key West.

http://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/2009/01/17/3922145.htm


Linkback - Hyatt timeshare fires staff
]]> 1/17/2009 8:32:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5255 5255
Keith Williams, the carrier’s chief financial officer, released the announcement to employees in the BA staff newspaper.

“Only through delivering fundamental change can we achieve the small profit we are targeting this year and emerge from the crisis as a strong global player,” Williams said.

In the recent past, British Airways has cut its management ranks by 480 as a result of making voluntary redundancy available to 1,400 staff. Most of the managers taking advantage of this option left BA at the end of December.

A spokesman for the airline said that other measures were being considered to reduce costs and improve efficiency, in order to meet the economic challenges that are expected to continue through 2009.

“The previous year has been tough and the year ahead could be even tougher,” the CFO said.

At a London financial press briefing on Wednesday, BA’s CEO, Willie Walsh, said that he remained confident that the airline’s alliance with American Airlines would be approved by regulators, adding that the tie-up may occur by the time next winter’s timetable is set.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/ba-management-announces-major-company-restructuring-5634067.html


Linkback - BA management announces company restructuring
]]> 1/17/2009 8:29:43 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5254 5254
The original plans had suggested the £9 billion expansion which includes a sixth terminal as well as the third runway would not be completed until 2019 or 2020.

However, The Times is reporting the government has asked Heathrow owners BAA to submit a planning application as soon as possible with the intention of opening it by 2015. The earlier date would help avoid much of the action by protesters who have vowed to step up their campaign.

The plans have a wide range of critics from the Conservative party and environmentalists to local residents and as many as 50 Labour backbenchers.

Protests continued when last night three women from pressure group The Climate Suffragettes broke glass doors at the Department for Transport. At 4.50am this morning, the women threw bricks at the doors of the Department of Transport in Westminster.

Wrapped around the bricks was a note reading ‘No third runway, the Suffra-jets are back’ and the action left a window broken.

A spokeswoman for the group claimed the action was necessary after the government had refused to allow MPs a vote on the scheme.

Police are now investigating the inciden

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2009/01/16/29994/heathrow-runway-could-be-built-by-2015.html


Linkback - Heathrow runway could be built by 2015
]]> 1/17/2009 8:27:57 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5253 5253
Far fewer holidaymakers and businessmen are also visiting the UK from abroad, particularly those from the USA, as the slowdown forces families and businesses to cut travel costs.

It comes as the Government insists that a third runway must be built at Heathrow airport in order to boost the country's economy.

The data from the Office for National Statistics show that UK residents made 16.4 million visits overseas in the three months ending November 2008, a drop of 7 per cent on the figure for the previous year.

Most Britons who ventured abroad travelled to Europe and the largest drop, of 12 per cent, was in visits to North America as the value of the pound plummeted against the dollar.

However spending by Britons abroad remained constant at £8.7 billion in that quarter.

The global financial crisis also led to a fall in the number of foreign visitors to Britain, with a 10 per cent drop in trips by overseas residents to 7.6m in the three months ending November last year compared with the same period in 2007.

Despite the exchange rate now benefiting American tourists, visitors from North America fell by 26 per cent over this period.

Spending by foreigners in the UK rose slightly between the three months ending November 2007 and the same period last year, to £4.2 billion.

The figures are obtained from the International Passenger Survey, which questions a random number of passengers entering and leaving the UK by air and sea.

Christopher Rodrigues, executive chairman of the national tourism agency, VisitBritain, said: "We need investment from Government – that will be willingly matched by the private-sector – for a campaign to remind potential travellers in the eurozone and America of Britain's new affordability and persuade them to come here now.

"Whatever December's figures bring, 2008 will have been a challenging year for British tourism and 2009 could see job losses as travellers tighten their belts. Additional political and financial investment now could create jobs quickly, regenerate regional communities, increase overseas investment in the UK and generate foreign exchange."

A separate report published by the ONS, Travel Trends 2007, shows that during that year 79 per cent of visits abroad by Britons were to Europe.

More people went to France and fewer holidayed in Spain. Tunisia, Poland and Latvia saw sharp rises in the number of British tourists, while Sri Lanka and Egypt saw the largest falls in British custom during 2007.

The average length of holidays also fell, from 10.1 nights on average in 2006 to 9.9 the following year.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/4246892/Britons-fewer-taking-foreign-holidays.html


Linkback - Britons fewer taking foreign holiday
]]> 1/17/2009 8:26:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5252 5252
The fantastic spectacle of the Northern Lights has been attracting holidaymakers for many years, but now is a particularly good time to visit Norway because the value of the Norwegian Krone has fallen by approximately 25% since the summer. With the pound keeping its value against the Krone, holidays in Norway haven’t been cheaper for decades.

In February the length of the day in Norway is similar to the UK, but the evenings are dark and perfect for viewing the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights. Good conditions for viewing the Northern Lights last well into March, but after March 21st the aurora starts to fade away.

Tromso in Norway is a good spot to witness the spectacular Northern Lights, and the city also has a range of other attractions to appeal to anyone looking for a winter break. During the day activities such as reindeer sledding, dog sledding, snowmobiling and ice fishing can keep the whole family busy.

There are also some major events coming up in Tromso in the next few months. From February 2nd-8th is the Sami week (the Sami were previously known as Laps). Highlight of the week long festival is the National Reindeer Sledding Championships on February 8th when the main street of Tromso is turned into an icy race track.

In the first week of March Tromso plays host to the Latin Music Festival, featuring Latin-American music, and you can witness the somewhat bizarre spectacle of a samba parade in the snow. Airline Norwegian offers direct flights to Tromso twice a week from Stansted airport.

Tour operator Specialised Tours has a three night Tromso break including flights from Heathrow airport and bed and breakfast at either the 4 star Radisson SAS or the Rica Ishavshotel for £735 per person.

Specialised Tours is also offering an evening Northern Lights Husky Safari or a full-day Husky Safari. The Safari heads into the inland area near Tromso which provides the best place to witness the unforgettable sight of the Northern Lights.

http://www.holidayextras.co.uk/news/destination/northern-lights-beckon-for-half-term-holidays-3384.html


Linkback - Northern Lights beckon for half term
]]> 1/17/2009 8:23:49 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5251 5251
Thomson offers holidays from only £118 for a self drive ski holiday to the French Alps, has hundreds of free child places and group discounts with up to one place in five free. There are also free six-day lift passes saving up to £156 per person in Söll, Austria and Chamrousse, France.

New for 2009/10 is the extended ‘Special Selection’, a pre-selection of accommodation to help to make the holiday choice easier and to enable travel agents to assist with the holiday selection.

New to the Crystal brochure is a selection of the best properties in the programme for either location, service, facilities or childcare to help skiers to find the best accommodation to suit all holiday needs.

Crystal Ski features thousands of free children places on every departure date; childcare operating 6 days a week in 23 European resorts; group discounts with up to 1 in 5 free and a free ski-mojo worth £295 for all group leaders.

In November 2008, Crystal Ski won the prestigious award voted for by British travellers, the Best Activity and Sport Holiday Operator at The British Travel Awards 2008 (as voted for by industry professionals and consumers).

Crystal’s Product Director Ian Davis said “Crystal’s new preview brochure will enable all skiers, especially families and larger groups returning from this season’s ski holiday to secure their choice for next season, at the time of their choosing, safe in the knowledge that they are getting the best price”.

Benefits for early bookers in both brochures include a free six half-day crèche or kids club place worth £100 on selected departures in January and March and must be booked before end of April 2009.

0871 971 0578 / www.thomson-ski.co.uk
0871 231 2256 / www.crystalski.co.uk

http://www.skirebel.com/magazine/archives/2099


Linkback - Crystal and Thomson ski list 2009/10 holidays
]]> 1/17/2009 8:22:39 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5250 5250
"Spain has lost 1 million British tourists in 2008. The British are being turned more towards Turkey or Egypt," said Sebastian Escarrer, the chairman of trade body Exceltur and also chief executive of Spain's biggest hotel group, Sol Melia. He said for the first time he could remember, no British tour operator was operating flights to Spain's Balearic islands of Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza this winter. Exceltur said Spain's tourism income would fall 5.7 percent this year as the global economic crisis deepened. Spain will earn 40.5 billion euros (36.5 billion pounds) from foreign tourists this year, Escarrer told reporters, down from 42.2 billion two years earlier, according to balance of payments data.

Earnings for the first 10 months of 2008 dropped by 4.1 percent. "Bad figures registered in November and the expected figures for December look like producing a bigger fall up to the end of the year," Exceltur said. Exceltur, whose members include Spain's main airlines, hoteliers, travel agents and car hire companies said not only was demand falling among foreigners, but also from Spaniards.

It said the number of nights spent by Spaniards in Spanish hotels will fall 5 percent this year. It added that even among the best performers, hotels' key revenue per available room (RevPar) indicator had fallen between 5 and 7 percent over 2008.

http://www.traveldailynews.com/pages/show_page/28954


Linkback - Spain loses 1 million UK tourists
]]> 1/17/2009 8:20:37 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5249 5249
http://www.itv.com/CatchUp/Video/default.html?ViewType=5&Filter=34057

Linkback - ITV 'Tonight' programme Friday 15th Jan.
]]> 1/17/2009 4:40:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5248 5248
Linkback - Legal advice
]]> 1/17/2009 2:43:03 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5247 5247
Thanks

Linkback - GARDEN LAGO - MAJORCA
]]> 1/17/2009 12:43:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5246 5246
Linkback - INcentive Leasure Group
]]> 1/16/2009 4:30:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5245 5245
Linkback - Removing posts
]]> 1/16/2009 1:45:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5244 5244
A report from the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT), which surveyed 3,000 British adults, shows 60% were unwilling to give up holidays. Half of those surveyed, however, said they needed to cut costs and were planning a holiday of under £500, compared with 30% who cut back the previous year.

Campsites, seaside hotels, B&Bs and coach and caravan companies are all expected to benefit.

Geoff Cowley, managing director of the Holiday Cottage Group, has already seen the highest number of internet bookings in one day this year. "Easter bookings for our cottages are up 30% on last year and half-term bookings are up 5%," he said.

Advance bookings for 2009 caravan breaks are up by 40% on 2008, according to the Caravan Club. "We confidently predict that this year will be the year that welcomes the return of the great British holiday," said spokesman Nick Lomas.

Twice as many holidaymakers plan to prioritise cost over convenience when deciding how to travel to their holiday destination, according to the CPT report, meaning that UK coach operators are also gearing up for a boom year. For many operators this will go some way towards offsetting a loss of passengers travelling by coach to Europe as the high cost of the euro puts many people off.

Paul Johnson, operations director at West Midlands based company Johnsons Coach and Bus Travel, said he had been surprised by the "upbeat message" from passengers in the last month. "People are worried about their fuel bills and other costs but they are not prepared to give up their holiday," he said. "We were expecting a real downturn in our bookings this year but since Christmas things have been much better than we expected." The most popular destinations being booked for this summer were proving to be the traditional seaside resorts, such as Scarborough and Eastbourne, he added.

Evidence emerged yesterday that passengers have cut back on plane travel. Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted collectively saw a drop of 2.8% last year compared with 2007, with Stansted seeing the biggest fall, 6%.

An Abta spokesman said: "People are still booking holidays abroad but in the last few weeks our members have reported that holidaymakers are cutting back and opting for self-catering and all-inclusive holidays."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2009/jan/15/recession-boom-uk-holidays


Linkback - UK holidays ..the new attraction for hard-up Brits
]]> 1/15/2009 10:02:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5243 5243
While many hoteliers and timeshare development companies are struggling in the face of tightening credit markets and slowed consumer spending, Sell My Timeshare NOW continues to report remarkable growth trends. The company's 4th quarter business synopsis reveals gains in both the number and the dollar amount of offers made to buy or rent timeshares advertised on the company's website: www.sellmytimesharenow.com.

Sell My Timeshare NOW is an online timeshare resale and timeshare rental advertising and marketing company created in 2003 to fill what the company's founders saw as a deficiency in the timeshare sales market. CEO Jason Tremblay explains, "Timeshare owners needed a simple, effective way to resell or rent their timeshares. Consumers wanted to be able to purchase resale timeshares. We saw the internet as the perfect vehicle to serve both needs."

In their 2008 business synopsis (available on their website) Sell My Timeshare NOW reports strong growth numbers. From 2007 to 2008, the overall number of offers to buy or rent timeshares advertised and marketed by the company increased by 85 percent. Totaling $461,470,158, this represents an average of over $1 million per day in offers. Even during the fourth quarter of 2008, dismal for many companies, Sell My Timeshare NOW saw the number of offers to buy or rent timeshare increase by 73 percent quarter-over-quarter from 2007 to 2008, and increase by 43 percent in the dollar amount during this period.

Traffic to the company's website rose by 18 percent in 2008 over 2007, with total visitors of 25,256,677, and an increase of 16 percent in unique visitors over this same period -- information that is particularly important to Sell My Timeshare NOW. Although the company has offices in New Hampshire and Florida, Tremblay says that more important than their bricks and mortar buildings is the fact that the company dominates online advertising for the vacation ownership market. Sell My Timeshare NOW continues to rank at or near the top of search engines such as Google and Yahoo for timeshare-specific search terms, which is vital considering that 68 percent of searchers never make it beyond page one for a given search term.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28654289/


Linkback - Consumers Are Buying and Renting Timeshare Resales
]]> 1/15/2009 9:50:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5242 5242
The plane, which the FAA said was flight 1549 from LaGuardia Airport to Charlotte, is partially submerged.

Rescue boats at the scene have been picking up passengers standing on the plane's wings and first reports suggest that everyone aboard survived.

Bird strikes disabled two of the plane's engines, officials said.

"There is no indication that the incident is security-related," a homeland security official told the BBC.

Three minutes

A passenger who escaped from the aircraft told CNN: "A couple of minutes after taking off we heard a loud bang, the plane shook a bit and immediately we could smell smoke and fire," the passenger said.

Fox News also quoted passengers as saying that everyone from the plane had escaped alive.

A spokeswoman for the US Federal Aviation Authority, Laura Brown, said it was believed the plane had been in the air for three minutes after take-off when it crashed.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/7832191.stm


Linkback - Plane crashes in New York river
]]> 1/15/2009 9:46:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5241 5241
Thanks Sheila

Linkback - selling a week
]]> 1/15/2009 7:16:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5239 5239


https://filestore.xmr3.com/780909/115003020/4574/index.html

Three more marinas for canal boaters






Linkback - Fruit preserve??
]]> 1/15/2009 6:29:17 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5240 5240
We were thinking of trying to give them away for free on ebay and also pay the transfer fee - Is this allowed and what do we need to do then - Is it just a case of telling Macdonalds the name and address of the new owners?

Linkback - How do we give timeshare away?
]]> 1/15/2009 5:14:51 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5238 5238 The Foreign Office has warned British travellers heading to America over the requirements of the new Visa Waiver Programme (VWP).

The new scheme allows most British citizens with current passports to visit for up to 90 days without a visa, but holidaymakers will now be required authorise their visa via the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA).

Travellers will be required to do so prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the USA. Those failing to do so could be detained and even sent home.
All applications must be approved by the department for homeland security before travel, and once approved will be valid for all visits during the following two years.

So far 99.6 per cent of all applications have been approved to date, with the procedure taking a matter of seconds.

The registration scheme replaces the green I-94 forms formerly distributed on flights.

ESTA is free but a number of firms have already emerged offering to carry out the procedure for a fee.

Those seeking to apply can do so here with the Foreign Office presently warning guests should so at least 72 hours prior to travel.

Linkback - NEW Rules if you are travelling to the USA
]]> 1/15/2009 12:14:13 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5237 5237
The pair, 54 and 49, were questioned over an allegation that a baggage truck was driven into a BA jet on 9 January, BBC crime correspondent Ben Ando said.

He said police did not believe the incident was terrorism-related.

The pair have been released on bail. A BA spokeswoman said they had been suspended while the inquiry continues.

The Airbus A321 jet is currently being examined by BA engineers.

The 80 passengers due to fly on the plane had to be put on another flight.
'Catastrophic decompression'

Mr Ando said a police source had described the damage as a gash to the fuselage.
"The damage was spotted by other members of ground crew before the plane took off," he said.

"Had it got into the air with this damage it is difficult to know what could have happened - the worst case could have been a catastrophic decompression of the plane causing it to crash.

"On the other hand something more controlled could have taken place - perhaps there was no real damage at all.

'Without prejudice'

"Until the engineers complete their checks it is difficult to know what could have happened."

The BA spokeswoman said: "Two members of our ground staff based at Heathrow were arrested following an incident where one of our aircraft was damaged.

"They were both questioned by the police and released on bail pending further inquiries.
"It would therefore be inappropriate to give further details.

"The two staff members have been given a precautionary suspension, without prejudice, while the police carry out their investigation."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/7828771.stm


Linkback - BA staff arrested over jet damage
]]> 1/14/2009 7:02:57 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5236 5236
With the new year, many timeshare professionals are finding themselves in a different sales environment than they have ever experienced before. In the past few months industry giants like Westgate, Bluegreen and Wyndham have seen massive layoffs in the turbulent credit crisis. In years past the sales professional had a place to go to talk about what was going on in the timeshare industry, streettalkblog.com.

The website which supported the vacation ownership community for a decade closed down on Thanksgiving, leaving a void in the timeshare world. On December 15th a new website was launched to help fill that void, thetimesharevoice.com

Since it's launch, the website has now received over 10,000 unique visits. This was done with little more than word of mouth and a few articles written by industry professionals.

The site will focus on the timeshare industry through the eyes of the timeshare salesperson. This website currently provides a daily news blog with articles from all aspects of the vacation industry. We have a forum called the Voice Box where you can talk to your peers from around the world and get their perspectives. We even have a game room with a timeshare twist to it.

We at The Timeshare Voice want to thank you for making our first month amazing, and can't wait to see where we will be this time next year.

About The Timeshare Voice:

The Timeshare Voice is an independent web publication created solely for the timeshare profession. The website intends to keep the timeshare community informed of every day developments. The site has no affiliation with any developers and prides itself on providing a private place where people can get together and share their voice.

http://www.bignews.biz/?id=792343&keys=Timeshare-Vacation-Travel-Streettalk



Linkback - Timeshare Voice 10,000 views in first month
]]> 1/14/2009 7:00:54 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5235 5235
Croatia: A combination of islands, pretty coastal towns and a fascinating interior; prices have risen, but from a lower base than destinations in the euro area.

Are these the best of times or the worst of times? In travel, it depends whether you are a buyer or a seller. Much of the tourist industry is facing a toxic combination of collapsing consumer confidence, slumping sterling and global turmoil. A perfect storm? No, a perfect holiday, at least for travellers with a bit of cash to spend and a backpack of aspirations to fulfil.

Never have conditions coalesced to produce such an ideal time for days and nights to remember, whether on the Sussex coast, under canvas in Africa or in dreaming your way in flat-bed luxury to Sydney. This year is likely to be the most rewarding ever in terms of choice, price and experiences; from next year, things can only get worse.

For evidence of the opportunities, look no further than last Saturday's edition of The Independent Traveller. Not the editorial (you will judge whether or not we made it informative and inspiring), but the ads.

"See the real Seychelles from just £899." Don't mind if I do; return flights, private transfers and five nights in this seductive tropical archipelago are yours for the price of a new sofa or plasma TV. And we're only at page five. By the time you have scoured the remaining few dozen pages, you will feel spoilt for choice between crossing the Channel to Dunkirk for under £10 per person return for a car and four occupants, and flying to the far side of the world in a Jumbo with 400 other occupants for £600 return.

You would be forgiven, if you read the travel news story in one story in a Sunday newspaper, for thinking that our addiction with adventure abroad is at an end: "Last-minute holiday deals will disappear over the next two years as travel companies cut almost one in every five of the flights and holidays they sell."

Happily, predictions of the imminent demise of holiday bargains are premature. Certainly, the price of a traditional Mediterranean holiday is likely to rise significantly this summer because the big tour operators are offering a couple of million fewer packages than last year. But Thomson and Thomas Cook cannot control the activities of the no-frills airlines: easyJet and Ryanair continue to receive a couple of new aircraft from Airbus and Boeing respectively every month, and the planes are likely to be deployed on sunshine routes. And the Irish national carrier, Aer Lingus, is branching out from its home turf this summer by setting up a new base at Gatwick serving the Mediterranean.

Meanwhile, the Pigs (the main southern European holiday destinations of Portugal, Italy, Greece and Spain gather in a convenient porcine acronym) are squealing. They have all seen a decline in the traditional package market from the UK, with many Brits heading east towards the cheaper destinations of Egypt and Turkey. And that was before events of recent months turned sterling into the world's new comedy currency.

A good way to avoid exposure to the ridiculously weak state of the pound, and the ridicule of traders across Europe and America, is to holiday at home. Last week, Christopher Rodrigues, chairman of Visit Britain, told The Independent he feared up to 50,000 job losses as domestic tourism slides into recession. Yet everything is pointing towards the best year in a decade or two for UK tourism. The unstoppable rise of budget hotel chains will provide many more low-cost options for exploring Britain's cities, countryside and coastline, and put pressure on other accommodation providers to provide better value.

Faced with losing business to UK B&Bs – not to mention Egyptian hotels on the Sinai peninsula – the average Mediterranean hotelier is unlikely to sit back and say "Oh well, the Brits aren't here but they'll be back in a few years." They will slash rates, even in school summer holidays, to fill their beds. Collectively, the British comprise the second-biggest holiday market in Europe (after Germany), and purveyors of everything from sangria to self-drive cars will have to work hard to win our currency, however puny the pound. Right now, your passport may look about as much use as a 2008 diary, but this will be the year for travelling cheerfully. Here are 10 good reasons why.

1. The best of British

However badly the travel industry suffers in the year ahead, the UK will continue to possess the most dynamic and competitive air travel market in the world. Wherever you're going, Britain is usually the best place to start for maximum value. Even in the downturn, opportunities continue to expand – with Aer Lingus moving in to offer flights from Gatwick to holiday hotspots such as Malaga and Faro.

Long haul, the drastically reduced cost of aviation fuel will work through to provide bargains that we thought had disappeared for ever; we may even see the return of the sub-£500 return flight to Australia, and New York fares for under £200. Even now, if you earn the national minimum wage of £5.73, over a 41-hour working week you will accrue £235 – just what you need for a flight from London to New York and back on KLM, departing next Monday. (And, if you practise austerity tourism, you will also be able to afford to stay there: start by using the subway from the airport into Manhattan, not the JFK bus, and certainly not a taxi.)

2. Go east for snow

Ski resorts across Europe are reporting the best early-season snowfalls for decades; even if it doesn't snow again this winter, the Alps have plenty to see skiers through till Easter. And the Russians are staying away, reducing demand and therefore prices. Go east, and you can benefit from low costs in all senses. Example: any week between now and Valentine's Day, Inghams has a half-board deal to Borovets from Gatwick for £244 – accommodation is allocated on arrival, but will be reasonable quality. The price includes flights, breakfast and dinner; lift passes and so forth will cost more – but with the Bulgarian lev about the most benevolent currency in Europe, a week all in for under £500 looks a reasonable prospect.

3. Cheap rail – by text

Britain's rail network is in better shape than ever – and from March, the full Eurostar service will be restored through the repaired Channel Tunnel to Paris, Brussels and Disneyland. It used to be that the French and Belgians got the very best fares; expect that situation to reverse this year.

Domestically, the UK used to have the most expensive rail services of any country in Europe (and we still hold the prize for the priciest of all – the Heathrow Express). But the slump in sterling means that we are merely mid-table now, in terms of walk-up fares. And for canny advance bookers, Britain offers cheaper rail travel than anywhere west of India.

Riffling through my wallet reveals distressingly few euros or dollars, but plenty of cheap train tickets: London to Lincoln for £10, for example, or the capital to Bath for £9.50.

Investigate my mobile phone, and the deals get even better. Increasingly, train operators are cutting out the high cost of issuing tickets – and doing everything online or by SMS. First ScotRail has sold me a one-way ticket from Inverness to London in March for £19, and almost unbelievably will throw in a bed for the night on the Caledonian Sleeper, plus a nice hot cup of tea in the morning when I wake up at Watford. National Express East Coast has texted me a barcode in return for £9 for a trip from Leeds to London, while that nice Sir Richard Branson is offering one-way London-Manchester tickets for as much as £123.50 or as little as £1 – the latter only if you accept your ticket by SMS to your phone.

On Virgin Trains, and increasingly other train operators, a combination of planning, commitment and everyday technology are the keys to bargains that will amaze the world.

4. Ferry good deals

Last week a ferry company, SpeedFerries, went bust. Yet even though the feeble pound has put paid to "booze-cruising" – because prices in hypermarkets in Calais are now about the same as Tesco in Dover – the surviving ferry operators are offering new routes and new ships. So, will they have to slash fares to fill them? Probably. It's going to be a splendid year on the high seas. Ferry operators are bringing in new ships and new routes – and, with the feeble pound putting paid to "booze-cruising", they will have to offer great fares to entice drivers to get on board.

5. Spend less for more fun

The pound's fall will prove beneficial to practically everyone: the time has come to celebrate austerity tourism. If you choose not to change your holiday spending behaviour, you are likely to have a dismal time – by the time you have made your third visit to the ATM to replenish your dwindling supply of foreign currency, it will not feel like so much of a dream trip.

Luckily, as anyone who went to Europe or the US in the Seventies and Eighties will confirm, it is perfectly possible to enjoy a holiday abroad even when in possession of pounds. Trimming holiday spending abroad has the potential to bestow on you a more enjoyable trip. You will be obliged to seek out the local places to eat and drink, and probably have a lot more fun as a result; travelling on public transport is a better way to meet local people than renting a car or hiring a taxi; and exploring the market for fresh produce is a more enriching experience than going for the tourist menu.

6. Drop the shopping

The slump in sterling should see the end of the holiday as retail frenzy: shopping in chain stores is the opposite of what travel should be about. If you are priced out of Zara in Zaragoza, so much the better: spend your time, not your money, falling in love with the destination, not what it sells.

7. Let your feet do the walking

Humdrum, perhaps, but true: more Brits will choose to walk or cycle rather than drive while on holiday – saving cash, getting fit and benefitting the planet.

8. Flights with frills

If you could not care two euro cents for your carbon footprint, this is also the year for living luxuriously at 37,000 feet. With business travel slumping, airlines and top hotels are having to cut prices to lure leisure travellers. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic will charge you under £1,100 return from London to New York for flat-bed, business-class comfort. And on BA's longest route, to Sydney, you can sleep your way from Heathrow to the harbour bridge for under £3,000 return. Incidentally, anything that enhances diversity amid the Blackberry-clutching travelling executives has to be a good thing.

9. Be bold

If you think things are tough here, try making a living abroad – especially in the tourism industry in one of the countries where political strife made headlines last year. Twelve months ago, Kenya was in disarray following disputed elections. Thousands of holidays were cancelled, even though not a single tourist was harmed in the conflict. This year, the tourist industry is going all out to tempt travellers back in. You can have a week's safari in the Masai Mara, followed by a week of half-board luxury on an Indian Ocean beach, for £1,642 per person with Somak, including scheduled flights. The company says it can offer the best prices in the market because it has contracted in sterling, rather than the more usual (for East Africa) US dollars.

Across in Thailand, the travel industry is desperately seeking to rebuild confidence after a disastrous end to 2008: the closure of the airport by demonstrators. With the upmarket operator Kuoni, prices for a luxury Easter holiday on the lovely island of Phuket are surprisingly low: £813 per person, including scheduled flights from London via Bangkok, private transfers and a "superior family room", including breakfast. All this for barely more than the standard air fare.

To India, competition is up, while demand is down due to the appalling terrorist attacks in Mumbai in November. Don't feel mercenary about planning a trip to a place so recently visited by tragedy; people working in tourism need you more than ever.

10. Be a culture vulture

Try "tactical tourism", making the most of the world with a little creative thinking. For example, don't go to this year's European capitals of culture, Linz in Austria and Vilnius in Lithuania – make your trips, instead, to last year's cultural cities – Liverpool or Stavanger in Norway. You will find the dramatic improvements in those cities' infrastructure along with permanent artistic enhancements – but without the crowds and the inevitable high prices. So, get smart and get packing.

Alexis Ashman hits the streets to find out who's going where this year

"I have actually booked two holidays so far. I'm going to Istanbul to see my family and New York to see some friends and because I love it there. Money is generally a bit tighter, but I'm still going to go on holiday." Melissa Isaac

"I'm going to South Africa for the Lions tour. I haven't been massively affected by the economic downturn, but there are some very good bargain holiday deals on at the moment that I am taking advantage of." Oliver Gregson

"We're going to Italy and we're not hugely worried as it's not going to cost a lot. That said, I'm from Italy and I've lost lots of money through the credit crunch as you can't get as many euros for your sterling as I used to. So my savings are now worth less." Micol Benassi and Yu Su Michi

"I haven't booked my summer holiday, but that's not because of the credit crunch. I just haven't got round to it yet." Vomic Nupshah

"I'm from Scotland, but I have a property in Spain, so I'm not going on a holiday apart from to go out there. On the whole I tend to take lots of long weekends as opposed to one big holiday, but things have become a bit tight." Joyce Stevenson

"Although money is a bit tight at the moment, I do aim to take a holiday, I just haven't got round to booking it yet." Sarah Palmer

"I have actually just booked one to Senegal. I suppose I am personally being a bit cautious, but there are some good deals to be had and I managed to negotiate for a fairly good price." Tony Hanley

"I haven't booked anywhere yet, although I am off to a wedding next year. I just feel that in the current recession, money that may be used for holidays is used with a different priority, for example, saving up for a house." Marie Sripah

http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/holidays/our-guide-to-a-year-of-great-holidays-1334102.html


Linkback - Our guide to a year of great holidays
]]> 1/14/2009 6:29:22 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5234 5234 jimdo


Linkback - nationaltimeshare helpline
]]> 1/14/2009 6:12:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5233 5233
Cheers

Linkback - Faro Car Hire
]]> 1/14/2009 10:26:37 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5232 5232
The line’s current brochure prices are based on an exchange rate of £1 to $1.90, but the pound has weakened considerably with its value now at $1.46.

In order to boost bookings, the cruise line is offering customers a number of protections against currency fluctuations.

Customers in the UK who have booked cruises for 2009, but have not yet paid in full will be able to pay the price currently published in the brochure as long as payment is made before 27 February.

In addition, the brochure prices are guaranteed for UK customers on all new bookings that are made and fully paid before 27 February.

Customers in the UK who book any 2009 Crystal Symphony Asia, Europe or transatlantic cruise before 27 February will be entitled to a 20 per cent on any of the cruise line’s 2010 voyages, with the exception of the World Cruise.

As a result of the decrease in fuel prices, Crystal is also scrapping fuel surcharges on its 2009 cruises.

Surcharges will not appear on new bookings, and those on reserve by deposit will be adjusted to eliminate the amount of the fuel surcharge.

Passengers who have already paid in full will be entitled to an onboard credit equal to the amount of the fuel surcharge that had been assessed.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/crystal-cruises-offers-currency-fluctuation-protection-5634068.html


Linkback - Crystal Cruises offers currency protection
]]> 1/13/2009 8:03:46 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5231 5231
Paramedics treated 25 people who were on an Alaska Airlines plane. Deicer fumes made their way onto the plane and irritated the eyes of passengers and the crew.

An attorney for passenger Arianna Morgan says she still feels the effects of that exposure and suffers numbness in her hands and fatigue.

The lawyer says the airline had a duty to ensure ventilation systems were closed during deicing.

The lawsuit was filed Monday in federal court in Seattle.

Airline spokeswoman Caroline Boren says the company is concerned about passenger welfare and is reviewing the complaint.

All 143 passengers boarded another plane and continued to Burbank, Calif.

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/6420ap_wa_alaska_airlines_lawsuit.html


Linkback - Suit filed over fumes from Alaska Airlines plane
]]> 1/13/2009 8:02:28 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5230 5230

“Transactions into India from our international members witnessed 39 per cent growth in November 2008 over the same month last year,” said Ms. Radhika Shastry—Managing Director of RCI (Resort Condominium International) India—in a recent interview with the Hindu Business Line. “For January, we are seeing 51 per cent growth over the same period last year. Timeshare is a family product, offers many holidaying options, gives its patrons flexibility in terms of exchanging destinations for a certain amount, and people are committed to holidays; all these features prevent the industry from getting hit during hard times, which may impact tourism in general.”


RCI reports confirm that the region has experienced a 40 percent membership growth from November 2008 to January 2009. Shastry claims that more than 1400 member families from South Africa, US, Australia, and United Kingdom have visited RCI India timeshares since November last year.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20090112267/Latest/India-Timeshares-avoid-the-financial-crisis.html


Linkback - India Timeshares avoid the financial crisis
]]> 1/13/2009 8:00:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5229 5229 Guess what it is:



6 points for a correct answer

Answer to be revealed 18th Jan unless correctly guessed beforehand.



Linkback - Guess what it is 12 Jan
]]> 1/12/2009 10:48:51 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5228 5228
In a note to investors on Monday, Friedman Billings Ramsey analyst C. Patrick Scholes said he expects that hotel demand will continue to deteriorate for at least the next several quarters.

He does not expect, however, that share prices will drop as steeply in 2009 as they did in 2008. He noted that hotel stocks fell 30 percent to 80 percent in 2008, compared with a 38 percent decline in the S&P 500.

Scholes named Marriott International Inc., InterContinental Hotels Group PLC and Interval Leisure Group Inc. as the companies best positioned to weather the downturn. He cited their fee-based cash flows and comparatively lower debt levels.

Share of hotel operator Marriott lost 84 cents, or 4.3 percent, to $18.79 in afternoon trading. InterContinental shares fell 41 cents, or 4.4 percent, to $8.83.

Shares of Interval Leisure Group, a provider of timeshare exchange services, slid 16 cents, or 2.7 percent, to $5.83.

Scholes said falling demand and debt difficulties will continue to hit hotel real estate investment trusts particularly hard. He said the strengthening U.S. dollar will also hurt hotel companies with foreign exchange exposure. He named Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Corp. as the most exposed.

Starwood shares fell $2.51, or 11.7 percent, to $18.91.

The analyst predicted that hotel occupancies will continue to deteriorate through the first half of the year, although he said comparisons should improve in September and October, which could be a catalyst for the stocks. "This, of course, presupposes that the economy does not see 'another leg down' during (the second half of 2009)," he added.

Scholes said a rapid improvement in consumer confidence could give hotel stocks a rapid boost. He said sentiment could recover if consumers expect the economic stimulus package to successfully turn around the economy.

Monday's decline in hotel shares came as the broader market traded lower. In afternoon trading, most of the major indexes were down more than 2 percent. The exception was the Dow Jones industrial average, which sank about 1.5 percent.

http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2009/01/12/ap5909420.html


Linkback - Sector Snap: Hotel stocks fall
]]> 1/12/2009 9:53:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5227 5227
The airline, which is the second biggest at Heathrow, believes that a failure to develop a third runway and improved transport links at the airport will result in a decline in the travel industry and, in the current climate, the loss of thousands of jobs.

It also believes that customers will turn away in favour of alternative and more modern European hubs.

Residents are concerned about the noise and pollution associated with Heathrow expansion plans but BMI remains confident that there is no environmental threat.

Speaking at a Future Heathrow press conference, BMI deputy chief executive Tim Bye said: "If we want Heathrow to maintain its pre-eminent position and international status as well as its competitive edge, it needs improvement, expansion and better transport links.

"The future of the aviation industry, with all of the jobs and commercial benefits that go with it, is hugely dependent on the existence of a world-class international hub airport in London."

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2009/01/12/29930/future-of-aviation-depends-on-heathrow-expansion-says.html


Linkback - Future of aviation depends on Heathrow expansion,
]]> 1/12/2009 9:50:32 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5226 5226
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office regularly issues travel advisories warning travellers to avoid particular areas or even entire countries following a terror attack or widespead protests.

Now the Pacific Asia Tourism Association plans talks with major insurers to persuade companies to provide insurance cover in spite of Foreign Office advice against travel.

Speaking at the ASEAN Tourism Forum in Hanoi, PATA chief executive Gregory Duffell said: "Governments do not consider the impact of advisories when they issue them.

"But the risks are covered by the insurance industry and PATA will work with the industry so it sees our side and can insure travellers."

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2009/01/12/29929/se-asia-tourism-authorities-complain-about-foreign-office.html


Linkback - SE Asia complain about Foreign Office advice
]]> 1/12/2009 9:45:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5225 5225
From 12 January, visitors from countries which do not need visas will need to fill in an electronic form at least 72 hours before they travel.

Those who have not registered risk being detained and sent back home.

The Foreign Office fears some people do not know about it and critics say it might put people off visiting the US.

The new online registration scheme replaces the green I-94 forms that people on short term visits to the US had to fill in on the flight and hand to customs on arrival.

Security approval

America welcomes nearly 60 million tourists a year and about 50 million of those travel without the formality of a visa.

Britain is one of the countries that signed up to the visa waiver programme, but from Monday, new rules apply.

Electronic applications - known as Esta (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) - have to be approved by the US Department of Homeland Security.

The Foreign Office is concerned that people who may not have heard of Esta and booked their trip before enforcement of the new rule may be caught out

FO spokesperson

Once an application is approved, it will be valid for all visits to the US for a two-year period.

The US Embassy in London said so far 99.6% of the applications have been approved - most within four seconds.

Michael Restovich, from the US Department of Homeland Security, said: "We want to keep the bad people out. We don't want to restrict commerce, we don't want to restrict tourism.
"We want to make sure the people getting on that aircraft or that sea vessel are clear to come to the United States and are risk-free."

The Foreign Office said it was "particularly concerned that people who may not have heard of Esta and booked their trip before enforcement of the new rule may be caught out".

Andrew Spice, of Post Office Travel Services, said: "Problems may also occur if UK tourists travel to the US via another country - like Canada or the Caribbean Islands - and don't realise they will need the Esta to gain entry."

British business leaders say they have been reassured over the measures

Neal Weston from the British Air Transport Association, which represents UK-registered airlines, such as British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, said its members who fly to the US were fully prepared for the new system.

No charge

Abta - the Travel Association - believes it will help speed up the immigration process.
Frances Tuke, from Abta, said it had been reminding members about the Esta deadline for several months.

"We would advise people thinking about going to the US to fill in Esta before booking or as soon as they book because if it is rejected, it can take up to six weeks to get an appointment at the US embassy for a visa," she said.

She recalled British singer Yusuf Islam, formerly known as Cat Stevens, who was sent back to London from the US after his name was found on a "watchlist" in 2004, and said the new system should help prevent such incidents.

With an extra layer of very intrusive bureaucracy, I think a lot of people will be deterred, if not simply confused

Travel expert Simon Calder

Esta is free but she warned that searches for Esta online brought up numerous websites offering to process the application in return for personal details and a fee.

Critics say it will be an inconvenience for business travellers and could prove a disincentive to people who like to travel spontaneously and book last-minute weekend breaks to US cities.

Simon Calder, travel editor of the Independent, said: "There are many, many draws the United States has but with an extra layer of very intrusive bureaucracy, I think a lot of people will be deterred, if not simply confused."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/7822794.stm


Linkback - Warning over new US travel rules
]]> 1/12/2009 9:18:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5224 5224
The court documents are here:

www.weeksprogramsettlement.com/courtdocs.htm

Linkback - RCI class action settlement
]]> 1/12/2009 8:04:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5223 5223 Can anyone assit me with any info about the above resort - Going there with wife and 4 teenagers in August this year.3 BED villa

Looking for good food locations and any good bars with live entertainment.

Any hints on how to get the best out of our 7 days there would be gr8.
Also - Will we need to take electric fans or is there any air con?

Thx
Juice



Linkback - Wimpen Sueno Azul, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
]]> 1/11/2009 8:32:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5222 5222 Due to very ill health they need to give up the timeshare.
They have approached Macdonalds but they will not take it back,
Is there anything they can do?
They are on pension credit and are struggling to afford maintenance payments for something they will never be able to use again.

Linkback - Need to give up timeshare
]]> 1/11/2009 7:53:45 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5221 5221
Iam newbie in timesharing.
Have read a lot of information in web and this forum..but still have a

lot of questions.
Hope you can help me with that.

Anyway Sorry that i asking so much....but havnt any other way to find

answers in nuances of timesharing in RCI.

Firstly iam points resort owner.

1) Can i check in not only at Fr,Sat,Sun....or maybe at other day..If

yes the week will beging from day i check in or not?

2)Can i buy not only full week? I mean i can get just 2,3,4 or more

days...and will pay only for days i booked in resort, not for full

(7days) week?

3)About Late deals and Instant Exchange reservations ....is it same?

As i understand "Late deals" it is advantage for weeks users to get low

price weeks in 45 days or less period..and you pay money for this

week(normally from 140$-300$) and not pay for exchange or any other

fee.....Yes?

And Instant Exchange reservations it same thing but for Points

users...and you pay 9000 points or less for week ......but as i heard

you pay exchange fee too.....if its truth...why as point user i need to

pay points(it is money for points users) and must pay fee too and weeks

users no need to pay fee for late deals?

4) What about extra holidays? need i need to pay any fee for get it?Or

just can pay money for week and go on.?

5)If i want to get several weeks on same resort in same time....need i

pay exchange fee for each week? And if i get two or three weeks on same

resort and same time in Instant Exchange reservations for 9000 points

or less.....i still need to pay two or three echanges fees??

6)Need i pay money for converting my week to points.....I have points

week...so every year if i willnt do anything i will get points to my

account(my home resort told me)...but need i pay something to RCI for

that?

7)How easy to get several weeks in one resort? Or it can be the

problem?(for us to travel less than 2 week are not profitable because

we are living in Russia so air tickets to most places are biggest part

of money)

8)I heard that with points system i have more resorts to choose than

weeks owners....is it truth?

9) Heard that exchange in points system much cheaper than in week

system in RCI.....lesser than 100$(50 or 60?)

10) Is it truth that not all resorts i can get for exchange......some

resorts will tell "NO" without reasoned answer.(i heard that Luxery

resorts...Hilton,Marriot,Sheraton...practice it)

11) Why i searching resorts in Asia on RCI.com and found that they are

offer hotels rooms(for two person) without kitchen...is it normal

Linkback - Questions about RCI resorts and exchanges
]]> 1/11/2009 7:48:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5220 5220 Urbana Quinta called my parents and told them they have a buyer for their time-share-flat in Austria.

They already paid some money to this Spanish agency but they didn't get their money yet. Now Urbana Quinta told that they have to pay a tax (plusvalía -> 16 per cent) before their money will be transferred. They didn't know about this tax before. After the hole transaction they will get back some of this money (65 per cent). I'm sure there is something wrong and I also found Urbana Quinta on the "scam list". But we don't know how to go on now. Because they have signed a contract. Do you think Urbana Quinta will transfer the price of sale or not?

Another problem is that we are not sure about this Spanish tax. I only found out that this tax is for selling Spanish property, the tax is fixed by the municipality where the property is. But this is not Spanish property! It is in Austria. And we are in Germany. The buyer is (or seems to be) from Finland. Only the agency is based in Spain.

How shell we go on? Please help us...

Linkback - Urbana Quinta - I need help
]]> 1/11/2009 6:15:29 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5219 5219
My wife and I have recently returned from Albufeira in Portugal,during our stay we were approached by a person promoting timeshare. This involved a lengthy 3 hr presentation at CPO where they were trying to sell us timeshare points through Infiniti/RCI. We were offered 40,000 Points for £9,995.00 and in addition to pay yearly maintenance and membership fees. We signed with the understanding of 14 days cooling off time and we have sent our cancellation slips out by recorded delivery as a precaution as we are trying to find feedback regarding this set up.

So far we haven't been able to find any feedback whether positive or negative and we are hoping that there might be someone on this forum who might be able to tell us more. Our 14 days cooling period ends on Friday 16th January so you can see why we chose to cancel rather than risk getting ourselves involved in something that we might regret at a later date.

Any feedback would be most appreciated and welcome.

Many Thanks Loadrunnner2020

Linkback - CPO(Clube Praia de Oura) Portugal Infiniti Points
]]> 1/11/2009 4:18:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5218 5218
Since we have arrived home we have sent our cancellation forms as everything we read since has made us really uneasy.

Is there anyone else on this forum that has signed up for the same thing recently, and are happy with how it has worked so far? Although we have cacelled to cover ourselves, if we find some positive reviews then we will re-think our decision. It just worries us that we havent heard anything good yet!

Any comments would be much appreciated!

Linkback - Update on Infiniti Points
]]> 1/11/2009 3:59:22 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5217 5217 Canary islands 7 nights £209

Thomson (0871 231 5595 ; www.thomson.co.uk) offers seven nights’ self-catering at Fiesta Corralejo in Fuerteventura. Departs Manchester on January 20.

Italy 3 nights £222

Three nights’ b&b at the four-star Grand Puccini, Milan, with BA Holidays (0844 493 0758 ; www.ba.com). Price includes return BA flight from Heathrow. Book by January 27.

US flight £229

Flight Centre (0870 499 0042; www.flightcentre.co.uk) offers flights to New York with Delta from Heathrow until June 30. Book by January 27 and quote NYCLONDL2.

UNDER £500

Morocco 7 nights £299

Portland Holidays Direct (0871 2313237; www.portlanddirect.co.uk) offers half board in Agadir at the three-star Ramada Les Almohades. Price includes return flight from Manchester on February 25.

North Cyprus 7 nights £395

Direct Traveller (0845 123 5383; www.directtraveller.com) has b&b at the Pia Bella Hotel near Kyrenia. The price includes transfer and return flight from Gatwick on March 10.

Jordan 7 nights £484

Seven nights’ b&b at a choice of three-star hotels in the Red Sea resort of Aqaba with Voyages Jules Verne (0845 166 7035; www.vjv.com). Price includes return flight from Gatwick, transfers, visa and the services of local guides. Available for weekly departures in January and February.

SKI DEALS

Les Trois Vallees 5 nights £169

Six days’ skiing in France’s Trois Vallées with five nights’ half board at the three-star Club Hôtel Verseau in Brides les Bains with Skiweekends.com (telephone bookings only on 0870 442 3400 or visit www.skiweekends.com for other offers). Price includes overnight coach travel from London, Thurrock, Maidstone and Folkestone.

Courchevel 1550 7 nights £399

Seven nights’ chalet board is available at the four-star Chalet Barragiste, in Courchevel 1550, with Ifyouski.com (0844 371 7733; www.ifyouski.com), a saving of £351. Offer excludes flights and is for the week of January 17.

Serre Chevalier 7 nights £599

Seven nights’ half board at the two-star ClubHotel Grand Aigle in Serre Chevalier, France, with (Equity Ski 01273 622111; www.equityski.co.uk). Price includes ski and boot hire and lift passes. Departs from Gatwick, Stansted or Manchester on February 1.

All offers are subject to availability. Price is per person and based on two sharing, unless otherwise stated.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/snowandski/4208735/Holiday-deals-of-the-week.html


Linkback - Holiday deals of the week
]]> 1/11/2009 10:53:05 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5216 5216
The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority has begun discussions with Dublin, Ireland-based Ryanair Holdings regarding direct charter flights between the Falls airport and Dublin Airport.

The NFTA’s Director of Aviation William Vanacek met with Ryanair representatives in Dublin on Friday to talk about the international air link.

“The really encouraging thing is that they sought us out and wanted to talk,” said NFTA Chairman Gregory Stamm. “We’ve got our fingers crossed because they are a big player over there and landing them would open a lot of doors for us.”

This marks the second time NFTA has pursued charter service between the Niagara Falls airport and Ireland. In 2007, the NFTA began discussions with Kenny Tours, a Maryland-based travel company about charter flights between Niagara Falls and Shannon, Ireland.

Those flights, priced as low as $799 round-trip, were to start last summer, but hit a snag with Kenny was unable to secure aircraft to make the trips.

Kenny had predicted the Niagara Falls/Ireland connection would be a big hit due to high interest from Western New York and Southern Ontario residents for charter travel to Ireland. The tour company also anticipated strong demand on the part of Irish tourists to visit Niagara Falls.

“There’s no question there’s a market on both ends for these charters. It’s more a matter of how this would fit into Ryanair’s expansion plans,” Stamm said.

Ryanair is a low-cost flier whose current route map is built on more than 700 short-haul and point-to-point routes linking Ireland, the United Kingdom and Europe.

Late last year, the airline confirmed it is considering the addition of transatlantic flights to its budget arsenal by the end of 2009. Flights to Boston, New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and multiple Florida destinations were listed as among the routes under discussion.

The no-frills airline said it would tap secondary airports in Baltimore; Providence, R. I.; and Islip on Long Island to deliver passengers, while keeping costs down. The NFTA has marketed the Niagara Falls airport as a prime secondary landing target with easy access to all of Western New York and Southern Ontario.

The NFTA has been actively pursuing both domestic and international air carriers to build business at the Niagara Falls airport. A new $30 million passenger terminal at the airport is slated to debut in July.

Currently, the Niagara County airfield has only one regularly-scheduled air carrier. South Carolina-based Direct Air offers three flights per week to Myrtle Beach, S. C. and recently began twice-weekly service to Punta Gorda, Fla.

http://www.buffalonews.com/145/story/545212.html


Linkback - Ryanair eyes Falls airport deal
]]> 1/11/2009 10:49:54 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5215 5215
Trying to capture the "cruise experience" and compete with the Club Med type resorts, many timeshare resorts have incorporated the "all-inclusive" concept.

Do I think it’s a good deal? That depends. Are you the owner or do you own somewhere else and you are exchanging in?

For the person owning timeshare at an all inclusive resort, in my opinion, it's not such a good deal.

However, for the person owning timeshare somewhere else and trading to an all inclusive resort, it's not such a good deal.

Huh?

Let's take a closer look at the all inclusive resort from the stand point of the person trading in first.

Most of the all-you-can eats are outside the U.S., locations in the Caribbean (or the Caribbean if you prefer that pronunciation) or Mexico.

In addition to the exchange fee of almost $200 you paid to Interval International or RCI, most of those resorts are going to charge a per person premium, often around $250, to pay for the "free" food. And, like a cruise line, sometimes the booze is extra. Or not top shelf when included.

Finally, there are the figurative handcuffs the "all-inclusive" program places on you. In many of these locales, part of the charm is getting off the resort and sampling the local flavor. Hard to do if you've already paid for 8 meals a day. And many of the local eating spots are very reasonable by our standards. So that's why it’s a bad deal if you are exchanging in.

Why is it a bad deal for the owner? For one, the handcuffs are the same. The menus, many complain, get monotonous and the quality is not usually 5-star.

And, even tough most do not impose a surcharge on owners, it's still not free. The costs are built into the owner’s annual maintenance fee. A fee that is paid whether you visit the property this year or not. So if you trade to go somewhere else - you're paying for a weeks worth of food that you're not going to eat.

http://www.examiner.com/x-773-Timeshare-Examiner~y2009m1d9-All-inclusive-resorts-and-timeshare--getting-it-all-and-less


Linkback - All inclusive resorts and timeshare
]]> 1/11/2009 10:48:10 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5214 5214
The laidoff employees will be given comprehensive severance packages, said Wyndham spokesperson Liz Hutchison. Bentley Brook, which opened in 1998, is owned by Wyndham Vacation Ownership of Orlando, Fla., a subsidiary of Wyndham Worldwide.

The resort has 80 total employees, but no additional layoffs will take place.

"It's done," Hutchison said.

Located at the Jiminy Peak ski resort, Wyndham Berkshire Bentley Brook has 155 condominium timeshares.

Former Bentley Brook employee Natasha Broadwell of Pittsfield said the workers were informed that the sales office would be closing on Wednesday.

"Everyone was completely shocked," said Broadwell, who began work at Bentley Brook on Dec. 1. "People were crying. It was crazy."

Hutchison said Wyndham has been closing sales offices across the country because the credit crisis combined with the turbulent economy has slowed resort development growth.

"This is not an isolated incident," she said.

According to its Web site, Wyndam Worldwide maintains 7,000 hotels, 200,000 hotel units, and 145 vacation ownership sites.

http://www.berkshireeagle.com/ci_11422389?source=most_emailed


Linkback - Cutbacks continue at Wyndham
]]> 1/11/2009 10:45:41 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5213 5213
UK Internet searches for flights increased by 58% between the weeks ending 27/12/08 and 03/01/09, but they were down by 42.4% when compared with the equivalent post-Christmas week last year (i.e. the week ending 05/01/08). Flights to the USA experienced the biggest annual fall in searches of 52.2%. Searches for flights to countries that use the Euro fell by 44.8%, while searches for flights to the UK and the Rest of the World also fell, but at a smaller rate.

Change in searches for flights to different geographical areas between 05/01/08 and 03/01/09:
USA: -52.2%
Eurozone:-44.8%
Global average: -42.4%
Rest of the world: -34.4%
UK Domestic: -32.7%

"It looks like the weak pound is putting people off flying to the Eurozone and the USA, and they are looking at destinations with more favourable exchange rates instead," commented Robin Goad, Hitwise's Director of Research. There have been big falls in searches for flights to all of the most popular European holiday destinations over the last 12 months: France is down 45.4%, Spain 42.8%, Portugal 41.7% and Italy 41.2%.

Change in UK Internet searches for flights to popular destinations between 05/01/08 and 03/01/09:
Turkey: -24.6%
Dubai: -27.1%
Thailand: -32.2%
Australia: -32.8%
South Africa: -32.9%
Caribbean: -34.6%
Italy: -41.2%
Portugal: -41.7%
Spain: -42.8%
France: -45.4%

Of all the major holiday locations favoured by Britons, Turkey experienced the smallest decline in flight searches over the last 12 months - a fall of 24.6% compared with an average of 42.4% for all destinations. At the same time, Turkey overtook Canada and Thailand to become the second most popular non-Euro/Dollar destination for British tourists.

Robin Goad commented: "UK Internet users are becoming more sophisticated in the way they search for Turkish holidays. Increasingly they are searching for particular towns and resorts, such as Dalaman, Bodrum and Antalya, rather than generic terms like 'flights to Turkey' or 'Turkish holidays'. This is similar to the way people search for Spanish or Portuguese holidays, and illustrates how Turkey has become a mainstream destination for British holiday makers".

Australia remains the most popular non-Euro/Dollar destination for British tourists, accounting for almost a quarter of all searches for flights to destinations outside of the UK, USA and Eurozone. Searches for flights to Australia have fallen by 32.85% over the last 12 months, but this is at a lower rate than for many other destinations. The recent release of the Nicole Kidman film "Australia" has had an impact on this behaviour. For the week ending 05/01/08 the Dubai based airline Emirates, which is currently running a joint marketing campaign with Tourism Australia, ranked 11th in Hitwise's Commercial Airlines category, up from 17th during the equivalent week in 2008.

Only five destinations have experienced an increase in flight searches over the last 12 months: Norway, Denmark, Brazil, Morocco and Cuba. Robin Goad commented: "The two areas that have benefitted most from the Pound falling against the Euro are Scandinavia and the cheaper sunshine destinations. The Scandinavian countries may still be expensive by global standards, but in relative terms their cost for UK consumers has fallen compared with other European countries. In terms of warmer destinations, the weak pound is encouraging people to look further afield for bargains, with places such as Brazil, Morocco, Cuba, Kenya and India all moving up the rankings over the last 12 months.

Destinations with the biggest increase (or smallest decrease) in flight searches between 05/01/08 and 03/01/09:

1. Norway +30.9%
2. Denmark +20.3%
3. Brazil +19.5%
4. Morocco +2.1%
5. Cuba +1.2%
6. Kenya -7.8%
7. India -12.7%
8. China -12.8%
9. Hungary -13.7%
10. Singapore -14.6%

http://www.traveldailynews.com/pages/show_page/28820


Linkback - Consumers reject Eurozone and USA -Hitwise facts
]]> 1/11/2009 10:44:01 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5212 5212
My partner and are looking to rent a nice apartment for 2 weeks at the Gran Amfi resort in March 09, can be flexible with dates during March.

Can anyone help us out?

Kind Regards

Richard & Faith

Linkback - Wanted 2 weeks Mar 09 Anfi Del Mar - Gran Anfi
]]> 1/11/2009 10:37:34 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5211 5211
Linkback - walking away
]]> 1/10/2009 10:32:32 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5210 5210
According to the TravelRepublic, website The Total Financial Protection initiative provides customers with 100% refund in the event of the corporate failure of their travel provider.

The website reminds customers that each element of their holiday is separate and as such is covered by separate financial protection.

The wording of the scheme also stresses that Travel Republic does not provide package holidays.

The site also claims the financial protection is '100% free of charge'.

Travel Republic was unable to comment but the launch of the scheme comes just weeks after the Civil Aviation Authority issued legal proceedings against the retailer and director Kane Pirie.

The legal proceedings are over breaches of CAA guidelines. Pirie is scheduled to appear in court in February.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2009/01/09/29919/under-fire-travelrepublic-launches-travel-protection-scheme.html


Linkback - TravelRepublic launches travel protection scheme
]]> 1/10/2009 9:35:42 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5209 5209
Passenger planes were involved in "serious" incidents on an unsafe temporary runway surface at Bristol Airport, an accident report has said.

In one case a plane went off the runway and ended on a grass verge after braking problems, the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said.

The incidents happened in wet weather between November 2006 and January 2007.

The AAIB calls for improved safety in recommendations to the Civil Aviation Authority and European safety experts.

Surface treated

Following the incidents, a number of airlines cancelled or diverted flights away from Bristol, affecting travel plans for 25,000 passengers.

The airport was eventually closed so that the runway surface could be treated and there were no further incidents after it reopened.

The AAIB said before the closure there had been several separate areas of the runway which had a temporary ungrooved base course asphalt surface while resurfacing work went on.

It said Bristol's risk assessment plan "had not adequately addressed the hazards presented to aircraft operating on the temporary surfaces in wet and windy weather".

The AAIB said there were three incidents on 29 December 2006 and a fourth on 3 January 2007.

In one case an ATR 72 aircraft operated by Channel Island carrier Aurigny left the runway on landing and came to rest on a grass verge.

In another serious incident, a British Airways CitiExpress Embraer 145 aircraft partially left, and then came back on to, the runway.

The AAIB said advice published by the Civil Aviation Authority about wet runways was not communicated by the airlines to their flight crews.

Also, information from air traffic control about braking gave flight crews "false confidence in the braking action available on the wet runway", the report said.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/bristol/7819334.stm


Linkback - Report finds runway 'was unsafe'
]]> 1/10/2009 9:29:10 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5208 5208
Officers yesterday searched seven addresses in Devon and Somerset, including the Holiday Presentation Centre, in Matford Court, Exeter.

When potential clients arrived at the building in Sigford Road, on Marsh Barton, expecting to attend talks about overseas holiday offers, they found a hand-written notice on the doors telling them that all yesterday's presentations were cancelled.

Some of those turned away are understood to have travelled lengthy distances to get there.

Police were sent to guard against any potential disorder, while curious workers in neighbouring offices wondered what was going on.


No one from any company operating from the Holiday Presentation Centre was on site when the Echo visited.

Inside the building, trading standards officers were bagging up and tagging holiday brochures and other documents to be taken away.

Officials were tight-lipped about the nature of the probe because their inquiries are ongoing, and refused to identify the company or companies being investigated.

Peter Greene, fair trading manager for Devon County Council, said: "Devon Trading Standards officers have today exercised entry warrants at seven addresses in Exeter, Exmouth and Somerset and seized an amount of material.

"The investigation is into alleged breaches of the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations and the sale of holiday ownership schemes. Inquiries are ongoing."

A police spokesman said: "In situations where there is likely to be a breach of the peace, we would accompany Trading Standards officers due to the fact that people might get angry.

"We are trained to deal with angry people, so we attend to prevent a breach of the peace."

Mr Greene advised any consumers with a problem concerning a holiday ownership scheme to contact Consumer Direct for advice in the first instance on 08454 040506.

He added: "If it is a matter Trading Standards needs to be aware of, they will refer the matter to us for investigation."

Have you bought a timeshare at the Holiday Presentation Centre? If so, please contact the Echo on 01392 442228.

http://www.thisisexeter.co.uk/news/Holiday-company-offices-raided-trading-standards/article-599306-detail/article.html


Linkback - Holiday company offices raided by trading standard
]]> 1/10/2009 8:26:26 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5207 5207
Firstly sorry for my english...iam from Russia so english not my native lang...

I glad that i found such forum of timeshare users...cuz in Russians web i had found nothing.

My story...1 month ago i bought timeshare....its true i bought it fast....good traders know how to sell :). And now i trying to get any info about deal i have done.

But as i understand i made not bad choice.

My week is Rci points week. I payed 8500 euro.
Resort --- Holiday Club resort. Thats Finland. The week number 25, white week. But this white week give me each year 70500 points.
The MF are also not so bad --158 euro in year.
When i was making decision to buy or not....the reason to do it was the possibility to change my points of one week to several weeks on other resorts in the world. And as i understood i can change on 2 weeks even in red seasons and even Gold crown resorts.
And if i will choose not so rated resorts and not red seasons(for example Asia good not only at winter....but at winter it has max cost) i can change on three or even FOUR weeks.

And of course other reason is Instant exchange for 9000pt or less
Thats amazing....i can get about 7 weeks.


Thats all what i guess about my timeshare...
Have i made good deal...i mean 8500 euro for such timeshare?
Was i right?
Is it true?
Or maybe i "flying in the clouds" and dont know some things...and some true about timeshare..



Hope that can get help from you friends.


Alex

Linkback - Questions from newbie from Russia
]]> 1/9/2009 9:32:50 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5206 5206 The Timeshare Beat became the streetblog.
Recently this notice appeared on their site



Hasta la Vista, Gang…

Sorry, we're closed Today marks the end of an era as Andrea and I have decided that it is time for us to say good-by to the timeshare world and we are closing down this forum.

As most of you know, beginning with “The Timeshare Beat” in July of 1999 and then continuing on with ‘Street’ in 2005 we have done our best to keep this industry abreast of breaking news stories, developer PRs, columns, articles, gossip, etc.

Plus, over those years we also provided a free and open format for everyone associated with the timeshare industry to express their views, suggestions and opinions, etc. without fear or worry of repercussions from an industry known for being less than tolerant of those expressing themselves.

But to everything there is a season and now, 9 years and a handful of months later (on top of 20+ years of sales and marketing in the industry), we are calling it quits and heading off to new adventures in a world full of opportunities. We leave you with one final Video of the Week as a special farewell gift.

For all of you, and especially those of you who have been with us since day one, we wish you nothing but continued health, security and a good dash of wealth in the years to come. May you live long, and prosper!

Best wishes to all, and thanks for your support all these years! It’s been quite a ride! Bye bye!

Rod and Andrea Hackman




The Hackman's have provided a place for information, assistance, advice and gossip for almost a decade. The timeshare world is that much less without their voice.

http://www.examiner.com/x-773-Timeshare-Examiner~y2009m1d7-A-void-in-the-world-of-timeshare


Linkback - Bye bye Streetblog
]]> 1/9/2009 6:44:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5205 5205
So far this month, approximately 200,000 bookings a day are being seen, in defiance of the gloomy economic outlook, as Britons scoop up bargains by booking summer holidays early.

Tour operators are featuring ‘two-for-one’ and ‘free child’ offers, while a number of airlines are offering substantially-discounted airfares.

What this means for families is savings of hundreds of pounds on their annual holiday.

A spokesperson for the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) said: “Our research has shown that the last thing people give up is their holiday and there are some extraordinary deals out there at the moment. January is a big month and with all these offers it looks like being a busy month.”

Thomas Cook is offering a 10 per cent discount on holidays booked by 16 February. At First Choice, savings of as much as £200 on summer 2009 bookings are possible, as are thousands of free child places and low booking deposits. Flight supplements are also being waived.

Direct Holidays is discounting holidays to Fuerteventura by nearly £100 per person on flight and hotel packages.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/bargains-boost-anticipated-january-holiday-bookings-to-six-million-5634065.html


Linkback - Bargains boost anticipated January holiday booking
]]> 1/9/2009 6:42:03 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5204 5204
In all, 261 nominated natural wonders, in 222 countries, have been nominated, including well-known mountain peaks, lakes and other natural attractions such as Niagara Falls and the Great Barrier Reef.

Early on Wednesday organizers released the list of nominees in Geneva.

It is anticipated that as many as a billion voters will take part in the Internet poll in choosing 77 semi-finalists in the top natural wonders competition. The seven finally selected will enjoy the recognition received by the seven man-made wonders chosen in 2007.

“We are calling on people all over the world to actively show their appreciation for our … natural world by joining together to celebrate the most extraordinary sites on our planet,” said a spokeswoman for the campaign, Tia Viering.

The non-profit foundation behind the campaign, based in Switzerland, has received 441 nominations over the Internet since the selection process was opened in 2007.

The process involved choosing the top vote-getter from each country, which led to 222 sites. When natural wonders bordering two or more countries were added, the list grew to 261. Sites sharing borders include Niagara Falls and Lake Superior, which border the US and Canada and the Matterhorn, bordering Switzerland and Italy.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/loch-ness-in-natural-wonder-competition-5634066.html


Linkback - Loch Ness in natural wonder competition
]]> 1/9/2009 6:40:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5203 5203
Chris Llewellyn was staring out the window of Delta Airlines Flight 110, watching the landscape of Los Angeles rise up toward the plane, when he heard the screams of a male flight attendant: "Help me! Help me!"

Turning quickly, he saw that a passenger had pushed the attendant to the floor and was trying to open the rear emergency exit.

"Don't come near me," the man warned. "I have a bomb. I have a bomb."

"I thought this guy was going to open the door. I was thinking, 'I'm not going to go down with the plane,' " said Llewellyn, 26, a 6-foot guitarist, who was flying into Los Angeles from Atlanta on Wednesday morning for a TV appearance with hip-hop artist Asher Roth.

Along with half a dozen other passengers, Llewellyn ran down the aisle into the galley area and jumped on the man, pulling him away from the door.

"He was struggling hard-core," Llewellyn said. "I was holding down his arm. Somebody had a foot on his head. Everyone was holding down a different body part. He was going nuts. I was telling him to chill because he's not going any place."

The jet landed safely and no bomb was found. Still, local and federal authorities credited Llewellyn and the other good Samaritans with helping save the day.

The incident was the latest example of passengers joining to prevent someone from doing harm during a flight. Perhaps the most famous example was on 9/11 when passengers on United Flight 93 fought terrorists, forcing the jet down in Pennsylvania and foiling a plot to crash the plane into the U.S. Capitol.

There have been other cases in recent years. In 2005, passengers aboard a Southwest Airlines flight bound for Florida helped wrestle a fellow passenger to the floor after he tried to force his way into the cockpit. The next year, a passenger who claimed to have a bomb aboard a Sacramento-bound United flight was subdued by passengers. Months later, an unruly passenger on an American Airlines flight from Seattle to St. Louis had to be handcuffed and strapped to his seat with the help of several passengers.

On Wednesday, many of the other 230 people on the Boeing 757 were grateful that fellow passengers stepped in.

Mary Hughes, 48, a state correctional records official from Panama City, Fla., said she first became aware of a problem when she saw other passengers running by her seat screaming, "No! No! Don't! Stop him!"

"What concerned me was that we were getting ready to land, and I was thinking, 'Oh, my God, we are still in the air. What if he opens the door?' " she said. "It was pretty creepy there."

Hughes said passengers were relieved when the plane landed and authorities boarded to take the suspect away.

"I was glad I was on a plane where passengers fought," she said. "It was great the passengers got involved."

It's highly unlikely that the suspect could have opened the emergency exit door. Because of cabin pressure, aviation experts have said it's impossible for someone to open an emergency exit when a plane is at high altitudes. But the Delta flight was almost on the ground, and one aviation expert said it may have been possible -- though unlikely -- for someone to have gotten the door open. At a low altitude, though, opening the door would not necessarily imperil passengers, the expert said.

The Los Angeles Police Department identified the man as Lawrence Johnson, 45, of Kentucky. He was booked by airport police on suspicion of making a false bomb threat.

A law enforcement source, speaking on condition of anonymity because the case was ongoing, said there was no air marshal on board. There has been much debate in recent years about how many air marshals actually fly on commercial flights, with some former employees claiming the number is declining. But the Transportation Security Administration denied any problems. Officials refuse to provide numbers but have said "the number of air marshals TSA employs is in the thousands."

In the case of Wednesday's Delta flight, passengers were able to secure the suspect on their own. When the plane landed, a flight attendant retrieved a restraining kit and the group was able to put restraints on the suspect's arms, Llewellyn said.

He said the suspect then asked, "What am I being charged with?" and someone answered, "Assaulting a flight attendant."

"He flipped out over that," Llewellyn said.

Despite the incident, he and other members of his band were able to get to NBC's Burbank studios in time for sound check. They were scheduled to appear on NBC's "Last Call With Carson Daly."

Asher Roth is an up-and-coming rapper who has been named one of MTV's "MCs to Watch in 2009."

By Wednesday night, Llewellyn was ready to move on. "The whole thing happened in about two to three minutes," he said. "It's all kind of a blur now."

http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/front/la-me-rapper-airline-bomb8-2009jan08,0,7307915.story


Linkback - Passengers pounce on man aboard L.A bound flight
]]> 1/9/2009 6:39:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5202 5202
Linkback - Walking away
]]> 1/9/2009 10:21:31 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5201 5201
Worth a try - you never know.

So far I have 2 Demijohns of an Elderberry Dessert wine and two Demijohns of just started Rhubarb Wine (Made with the finest Yorkshire Rhubarb).

Does anyone have any experience of homebrewing and can they pass on any tips?



Linkback - Home Brew
]]> 1/8/2009 9:47:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5200 5200 Thanks for any help.
Regards.

Linkback - scam - Universal Transfers Spain
]]> 1/8/2009 7:12:45 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5199 5199
Thanks

Linkback - Can you offer on a Timeshare?
]]> 1/8/2009 1:11:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5198 5198
The Iraqi, Raed Jarrar, was headed for a JetBlue flight from John F. Kennedy International Airport to Oakland, Calif., in August 2006 when, according to court papers, he was told at a security checkpoint that his T-shirt, which said “We will not be silent” in Arabic and English, would have to go.

One federal employee, according to Mr. Jarrar’s account, told him that wearing a shirt with Arabic script to an airport was like going to the bank in a shirt that said “I am a robber.”

Ultimately, the JetBlue workers gave Mr. Jarrar another T-shirt to wear over the first one, and led him to a seat at the back of the plane, even though his original ticket had been issued for a seat at the front.

In an interview, Mr. Jarrar, 30, a legal resident, called the experience “very painful.” At the time, he said, he was a new immigrant to the United States and had been reading histories of discrimination and the civil rights movement, which he thought of as “things that happened in the past, and in this other place and time.”

“When it happened to me,” he said, “it was very much of a shock.”

The settlement, made public Monday, was reached last month, said Aden Fine, a lawyer with the American Civil Liberties Union, who represented Mr. Jarrar. The size of the settlement “should send a clear and strong message to all T.S.A. officials and airlines that they can’t discriminate against people for how they look or for the ethnic content of their speech,” Mr. Fine said.

Neither the Transportation Safety Administration officials or JetBlue admitted having done anything wrong, and the settlement agreement states that it “is not an admission of liability or fault or wrongdoing or responsibility.”

The agreement says that the government employees, Garfield Harris and Franco Trotta, “disavow any allegation” that they had violated Mr. Jarrar’s rights, and said that “their actions were at all times reasonable and within their discretion and authority.”

Bryan Baldwin, a spokesman for the airline, said the company was “pleased” with the settlement, although it denied Mr. Jarrar’s version of events. The company settled, Mr. Baldwin said, “to stop incurring future legal cost.”

The incident occurred at a time of heightened tension for air travel, just after the arrests of two dozen people in England who were accused of plotting to detonate liquid explosives on several airliners on flights from London to the United States and Canada.

Mr. Jarrar said he was “disappointed” that the agency and airline did not admit fault or apologize. But, he said, “the point was proven.”

If they had done nothing wrong, he asked, “why did they pay $240,000?”

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/08/us/08arabic.html?_r=1


Linkback - T-Shirt Incident at U.S. Airport
]]> 1/8/2009 7:16:44 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5197 5197 Online Discounts

You can use online discount and coupon sites to help you prepare before your vacation. Here are some links to get you started:

Attractions

http://www.orlandocouponsfree.com/attraction_coupons.html

http://www.couponsalacarte.com/Flattractions/attractions.htm

Restaurants

http://www.couponsalacarte.com/orlando/restaurant.htm

http://www.orlandocouponsfree.com/restaurant_coupons.html

Misc.

http://www.orlandocoupons.com/

http://www.orlandosaving.com/

http://www.orlandocheapster.com/Coupons.htm

http://www.see-orlandoflorida.com/coupons.php3

Other Ways to Save

Once you get to Orlando, if you're not staying on Disney property, your hotel is likely to have a big display of pamphlets, brochures and coupons. You'll find coupons for individual attractions and a variety of discount books loaded with information and special offers on a variety of restaurtants and activities. If your hotel doesn't have a good selection, check at other hotels and restaurants.

Beware of information booths, as these are often a way to draw you into signing up for a timeshare tour. These booths may be freestanding, or they may be located inside of stores and restaurants. You'll be enticed by a rack full of information, as as you're thumbing through it, the friendly representative will chat you up and offer you a free dinner show, deeply discounted tickets, or even money. Say a polite but firm "no" unless you want to give up several hours and be subjected to a high-pressure sales pitch.

You can find plenty of free-standing coupon book racks at restaurants and in hotel lobbies where you won't have to brace the timeshare pitch.

When you pick up coupon books, check the expiration dates to make sure they are current. Although they are usually restocked frequently, you won't want to grab an old book and discover that your coupon expired last month when you present it at a business.

http://www.examiner.com/x-2200-Orlando-Getaways-Examiner~y2009m1d4-Dont-pay-full-price-for-Orlando-food-and-attractions


Linkback - Don't pay full price for Orlando food and parks
]]> 1/8/2009 7:14:04 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5196 5196
One of the “most disturbing” of the findings in the investigation was a soiled and mouldy mattress in a room at an Ibis Hotel. Among other revelations in a range of hotels were food debris, duvets with stains that were probably blood and stray fingernails lying on the floor.

These unseemly discoveries came to light during an undercover investigation conducted by the consumer group Which? The five most popular budget hotel chains in the UK were visited – including Comfort Inn, Ibis, Jurys Inn, Premier Inn and Travelodge.

In the report it was said: “The rooms we inspected varied quite significantly when it came to standards of cleanliness, adding a whole new meaning to the concept of a dirty weekend.”

Carpets were found containing high dust levels, one mattress was torn and covered with mould and some of the bathrooms had toilets with urine streaks on the outside and faeces on the seat.

According to recent reports, budget lodgings have recently seen an increase in business as travellers seek to save on travel costs.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/soiled-and-contaminated-conditions-in-budget-accommodations-5634061.html


Linkback - Soiled and contaminated conditions in budget hotel
]]> 1/8/2009 7:12:21 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5195 5195
The TV series has inspired thousands of Britons, rekindling a love of dancing that hasn’t been seen since the wartime dancehalls of the last century. More than eight million viewers tune in to the dancing series.

HF Holidays, a firm that offers breaks in the UK, reported a sharp increase in interest in holiday breaks that include dance classes.

Holidaymaker Louise chose a dancing weekend break in Wales, saying: “Having enjoyed a few evening classes, I felt the urge to try something a bit more substantial, and decided upon a beginners’ ballroom weekend.”

She added: “Day two kicked off with a recap of the previous day’s steps before moving on to the cha-cha. Along with most of the class, I instantly loved this dance and my confidence grew. At the end of the two-hour session, though, I breathed a sigh of relief – my feet were throbbing. Others also complained of numerous aches and pains.”

Dance classes are offered also by Center Parcs holiday villages and by Saga, a specialist in holidays for those over 50. Saga has recently introduced a dance-themed holiday in Malta.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/strictly-come-dancing-sparks-interest-in-dance-themed-holidays-5634064.html


Linkback - Interest in dance themed holidays
]]> 1/8/2009 7:11:05 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5194 5194
I have two issues i need help with

1)
I have been a member of Anfi since 2004 first year purchasing 1 week in gran anfi which i paid £14k out right, then in 2005 upgraded to 2 weeks in Tauro which they tfs the old contract amount and done the rest on finance, then in 2007 upgraded again to three in Tauro which they again tfs the old contract amount and done the rest on finance, The problem is my husbands company liquidated last year and we are finding it really hard to keep up the £400 a month payment and the annual maintance of £1600.00 so whilst on holiday this year we went to see in house to see if there was anyway we could reduce what we owned they were no help at all saying its to late to do anything!!!! i then went to the finance dept to check on the total amount we owe
shocked to see we still owed £21k, even though we have been paying between £320 - £400 amonth since 2005 and have paid approx £17k upfront in deposits etc when checking through the financing details they provided i noticed that even though we paid £14k in full for our first contract they only tfs just under £12,500 to the new contract and the same happened on the other contracts, i phoned the finance dept and they advised me that every time you change the contract you pay around £900 admin fee and the maintance that they tell you is inc in the first year of the new contract is deducted from the existing contract!!!!!!
this seems MAD if i knew this i would have kept my orginal contract and just done seperate ones along side
However since discovering this i have contacted friends that we know from Anfi they also paid upfront for there first contract then upgraded the contract and paid the rest on interest free over 12mths however they had no deductions made from the orginal contract
i think we are worst of by amount £8,000 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
[:(!]
Why is this please help !!!!!!

2) is it true that if you paided a deposit within the cooling off period the contract is not valid and you can recive your money back ???


hope there's someone out there that can help

Linkback - Can I Cancel
]]> 1/7/2009 8:54:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5193 5193
The lay-offs began during early December at the Orlando timeshare call center where the second round of recent pink slips were issued. Last November, approximately 80 timeshare employees were laid off in lieu of the credit crunch. However, Marriott claims that it will be posting as many as 31 job vacancies as soon as the Horizons project closes and moves to a new location.

According to a Marriott official, the timeshare finances were not being squeezed “tightly” by the international credit market and this slowed down consumer spending.

Marriott VP Ed Kinney says that the layoffs will be completed by January 2009. Other timeshares that are cutting back include Wyndham Vacation Club, Westgate Resorts, and Bluegreen Resorts.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20090105264/Latest/Marriott-timeshares-in-cut-back-mode.html



Linkback - Marriott timeshares in cut back mode
]]> 1/7/2009 8:43:03 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5192 5192
The resort is situated in the renowned vacation spot of Phuket, Thailand. It is nested between Phuket City and Patong—home to some of the world’s best beaches.

“Stoney Monday is a high quality development that we are delighted to add to our network of resorts,” comments Joe Hickman, Executive Director of Interval International, Asia Pacific. “There is something here for everyone's interest, including access to excellent leisure facilities.”

The Stoney Monday Oasis Golf Resort has over 61 units, 44 of which are now available for the timeshare program. The units include studios and 1-2 bedroom apartments. Onsite amenities include a swimming pool, a large outdoor Jacuzzi, a health club, two tennis courts, and two restaurants.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20090107265/Latest/Interval-International-launches-timeshare-program-with-Stoney-Monday-Oasis-Golf-Resort.html



Linkback - Interval International launches timeshare program
]]> 1/7/2009 8:42:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5191 5191
Judge Jon Jackson has granted Waterline Lowburn Ltd consent to operate its travellers' accommodation as residential units to owners for 10 weeks of every year.

Waterline's application last year to the Central Otago District Council, for consent to change all titles into residential units, was refused because the land was originally allocated for travellers' accommodation, not a residential subdivision.

Waterline's property, which fronts State Highway 6 and Lowburn Valley Rd, had previously been set aside to rebuild the old Lowburn Ferry Hotel, which disappeared when Lake Dunstan was filled in the 1980s.

Waterline's appeal to the Environment Court has won it a compromise of sorts.

In his written decision to allow consent, Judge Jackson stated the units should be used only for the purpose of travellers' accommodation and, subject to provisions, should not be used for residential activity.

However, unit owners could occupy their accommodation facilities for a cumulative maximum of 70 days (10 weeks) of each year, and a maximum continuous period of 42 days (six weeks).

During all other times, units must be used for travellers' accommodation, on a daily tariff, with the exception of one unit which could be used continuously as a manager's flat.

The manager of the travellers' accommodation will be required to maintain a written record of dates of occupancy both by unit owners and travellers.

Waterline's initial application, which was granted consent in October 2007, proposed a travellers' accommodation complex, as well as a manager's office and flat.

Units were to be built beside a consented restaurant and bar to form a commercial unit.

Judge Jackson's decision also requires Waterline to upgrade the intersection of State Highway 6 and Lowburn Valley Rd, incorporating a right turning bay, flag light, and extended slip lanes, in accordance with the New Zealand Transport Agency, by December 2010.

He also ordered Waterline to develop a footpath from its property to the state highway, and to pay all the council's administration costs relating administration, inspection, and supervision of consent conditions.

Waterline was also ordered to pay a total of $255,440 in development contributions for water supply, wastewater, and roading and community facilities.

There was no order for costs.

http://www.odt.co.nz/the-regions/central-otago/38589/court-gives-consent-timeshare


Linkback - Court gives consent to timeshare
]]> 1/7/2009 8:40:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5190 5190
Linkback - Timeshare Sales
]]> 1/7/2009 7:52:52 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5189 5189 For sale week 32 august 2 bedroom top floor with own roof top terrace. ideal for sunbathing. 2 bedroom sleeps 6 school holiday week.Gold Crown indoor pool as well as 2 outdoor pools. Lovely resort selling due to personal reasons.
Any reasonable offer considered. Please do not offer silly money.
This is a geniune sale so please offer a genuine price.

Linkback - HERITAGE RESORT MATCHROOM COUNTRY CLUB
]]> 1/6/2009 10:57:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5188 5188
However, no-one will discuss resale with me and they now won't respond to letters or emails. Has anyone tried to sell their property back?? Im really looking for some help here, its getting very stressful as i can't afford the finance payments any longer.

Linkback - I need your help!!!
]]> 1/6/2009 7:41:17 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5187 5187 Just been reading some pretty horrendous reviews on the internet.

Linkback - Gardenia Plaza Resort, sharm el sheikh
]]> 1/6/2009 8:39:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5186 5186


Linkback - Bush
]]> 1/5/2009 8:30:24 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5185 5185
We have been advised that such bookings must be made over the phone through the reservations dept.



Linkback - 13 months advance bookings
]]> 1/5/2009 8:20:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5184 5184 Are Fantastic places connected to Bic leisure from the Golf del sur?
I hope not[V]


Linkback - fantastic places
]]> 1/5/2009 2:21:40 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5183 5183
The above timeshare sales scam company say they have closed their Malaga office, to save costs, and moved to their Gibralter Office. No address given!
However their web site (www.worldnetworkingsales.com/) contact information remains unaltered.
Also their phone number is still prefixed by 0034 for Spain and email address changed to customerservicegb@yahoo.co.uk. Strange that company name not used any more and using Yahoo.

Does any one know what has actually happened to them. Possibly the have had to go underground to hide their sams and from the police.

Your assistance would be appreciated.

Thanks

Charlescharlesandjosie

Posts: 2
Joined: Tue Oct 21, 2008 5:51 pm
Private message Top

Linkback - World Networking Sales
]]> 1/5/2009 9:57:57 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5182 5182
The Abu Dhabi-based airline picked up the award at a glittering ceremony attended by 900 travel industry professionals on Friday 7 November at Battersea Evolution in London.

James Hogan, chief executive of Etihad Airways, said: “It is a tremendous honor for Etihad Airways to win the prestigious title of ‘airline of the year’ at the British Travel Awards, particularly as 2008 sees us celebrate our fifth birthday.

“It is particularly pleasing to receive this accolade from industry professionals, who recognize the many achievements we have made in the last five years and the significant growth which has made Etihad the fastest growing airline in commercial aviation history.”

The British Travel Award is the latest in a series of top accolades that the national airline of the United Arab Emirates has won this year, including the Middle East’s ‘Leading Airline’, ‘Leading First Class’ and ‘Leading Travel Website’ at the 2008 World Travel Awards; ‘Best Cabin Staff’ and ‘Best Economy Class’ at the Business Traveler Middle East awards and ‘Best Website’ at the 2008 Pan Arab Web awards.

Etihad was also named by Skytrax as one of the top ten airlines in the world’s largest independent survey of air travelers, a huge achievement for an airline which has been flying for just five years.

http://www.tehrantimes.com/index_View.asp?code=186349


Linkback - Etihad voted airline of year at British Travel Awa
]]> 1/5/2009 7:42:43 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5181 5181
The high-speed passenger rail service from the UK to the Continent said its starting price of £59 return will be available up to four months in advance of travel. There are no surcharges or taxes. It is valid to Paris, Disneyland Resort Paris, Brussels and any station in Belgium.

Eurostar commercial director Nick Mercer said: "We know travellers want good value, so we're offering them the chance to plan an affordable spring break or summer holiday."

Eurostar offers tickets from 150 towns and cities in the UK in conjunction with domestic train operators and children under the age of four travel for free.

Eurostar's lead-in return fare has reduced from £95 in 1994 when services began and dropped to £59 in 2003, which is less than half the price in real terms compared with 14 years ago.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2009/01/02/29855/eurostar-lead-in-fares-frozen-for-sixth-year.html


Linkback - Eurostar lead-in fares frozen for sixth year
]]> 1/5/2009 7:41:01 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5180 5180
Everywhere you click, timeshare resale is not just the next trend in timeshare; it is a growing trend in travel! Business, holidays, traveling the world, and good old family vacationing is just the prologue. The idea of reselling timeshares is pretty new, with a thriving market that spans around the globe. It is not something your resort developer will tell you about. As the internet expands however, the demand for cheaper and cheaper timeshares is growing exponentially.

Nowadays developers cannot get away with their over-bloated prices, because now Joe Consumer can find a comparable package on Craigslist or Google for thousands of dollars less. Timeshare companies like BuyATimeshare.com are making things easier with numerous innovations for the timeshare buying experience. Offering assistance through Live Chat, they are conveniently found at the top of all major search engines. The newfangled internet allows you to skip the high-pressure sales presentations, shop from home, and tailor your ideal vacation property.

Find all the brands for about 70% off what the developer will market them for—and you choose when and where to go! Some websites will confront you with a registration form, but a few will let you roam their inventory of vacation properties. Chat with a specialist and have all of your timeshare questions answered from home. With buyers shopping the World Wide Web, find all of the benefits, without the salesmen trying to pressure a signature or sale out of you.

Timeshares are not a horrible experience. There has been a lot of bad publicity over the years of unscrupulous sales practices. Oftentimes the vacation works out fine. And while the concept continues to save people a lot of money, they provide a superior vacation experience as well. Unfortunately, run-ins with these unethical companies that get remembered about timeshares, and are typically what people were writing about.

Satisfied owners, however, are on a beach somewhere too busy to defend this valuable concept. It is nice to see the timeshare resale market giving credibility back to the timeshare experience. For-sale-by-owner timeshare resale is fast becoming the latest trend in timesharing. More and more travel enthusiasts are citing the resale market as the only way to buy. Timeshare resale websites are making it easier for consumers to shop, buy, and learn about timeshares. There is no reason to endure another high-pressure sales presentation again.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20081209259/Latest/Buying-Timeshares-Made-Quick-Cheap-and-Easy.html


Linkback - Buying Timeshares Made Quick, Cheap and Easy
]]> 1/5/2009 7:40:05 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5179 5179 But the economic crisis intrudes in nany ways, both obvious and not.

Recent reports have stalwarts such has Marriott, Starwood and Wyndham feeling the effects of the bad economy and, especially, the tight credit market.

The luxurious Ritz-Carlton Club, with locations ranging from San Francisco to the Virgin Islands, was recently reported to have pulled the plug on a new mixed-use property in Miami. The Ritz is a Marriott brand.

Wyndham is very much invested in the timeshare industry. They own the companies formerly known as Fairfield and TrendWest, as well as exchange giant, RCI. Recently, they announced layoffs affecting approximately 25% of their 4,000 employees.

As has been reported before, this in not so much as a result of flagging sales, though the numbers are expected to be “flat to down”, according to industry insiders.

Many of the companies laying off are responding to the paralysis that has impacted the credit market driving the funds for new developments. No new developments ultimately lead to less inventory to market and sell.

The impact on timeshare owners? Should be relatively minimal. If you already own, it is unlikely to impact your individual resort. There have not been any significant reports of distressed existing properties.

And travelers will look at their personal budgets when deciding when and where to go.
The last major event to impact the travel industry would be the post-9-11 reaction, which severely damaged the hotel industry.

Timeshare took a momentary pause, then owners adjusted their travel habits, exchanging for resorts closer to home, where they could drive rather than fly.

Usage and occupancy rates did not vary much from the traditional 90% or so.

As a matter of fact, for existing owners, owning timeshare often proves to be a boon in tough economic times; it's easier to take a family vacation when your immediate out of pocket expenses are minimal.

http://www.examiner.com/x-773-Timeshare-Examiner~y2009m1d3-The-real-world-intrudes-on-timeshare


Linkback - The real world intrudes on timeshare
]]> 1/5/2009 7:38:51 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5178 5178
Obviously there are some existing exit routes:

• Death of either member with no possibility of transferring to family members – copy of death certificate will be required.

• Bankruptcy or CAB/solicitor's involvement to resolve serious debt issues – specific documentary evidence detailing income, outgoings, assets and liabilities will be required.

• Over 75 years old with no possibility of transferring to family members – copy of birth certificate will be required.

• Medical problems/terminal illness necessitating reduced travel and/or decrease in financial resources to maintain membership – medical evidence will be required.

So

Let's have a proper debate over what we as members would see as being acceptable (to both us and the company) additional exit strategies?

So far it is my understanding that the removal of the resale only to existing members clause would be acceptable to the membership - and could result in more revenue for the company.

Another route might be to provide significantly more resorts within the UK of a high standard to give the aging membership more choice without having to relinquish membership.

Perhaps a higher value being apportioned to the points used to offset MF's

Any other ideas?



Linkback - Exit Strategies?
]]> 1/4/2009 10:04:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5177 5177


More of the picture to be revealed daily. The more that is revealed the less the reward.

Answer to be revealed 11th Jan unless correctly guessed beforehand.

Today it is worth 7 points!




Linkback - Guess who it is - 04 Jan
]]> 1/4/2009 9:03:40 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5176 5176
email peter.k.mallinson(at)btinternet.com

Linkback - 4,000 points FOC
]]> 1/2/2009 6:40:03 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5175 5175 "Children's clothing company Adams is the latest retail casualty as it emerged yesterday the company has applied to go into administration."

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/adams-on-brink-of-collapse-14121952.html

What is happening to this country ? Who's next ?







Linkback - First Woolies, now Adams ...
]]> 1/2/2009 3:48:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5174 5174
Linkback - Maintenance fees
]]> 1/2/2009 1:20:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5173 5173
The EU Council of Ministers yesterday adopted the new Timeshare Directive, following a review of the existing version. The UK Government had strongly lobbied to extend its provisions to cover holiday clubs, and to provide better protection for timeshare owners, particularly those who fall prey to bogus timeshare resale agents.

Gareth Thomas said: "This is good news for British holidaymakers because it will ensure equal protection across Europe against bogus and rogue sellers of holiday clubs who in recent years have given the whole industry a bad name.

"The new Directive addresses the UK's concerns with the long-term holiday product sector and sets rules within which genuine, honest traders can operate without facing unfair competition from the rogues."

The Office of Fair Trading estimated that in 2006 detriment for UK based consumers alone, deceived into buying long-term holiday club membership, amounted to over £1 billion.

The new Directive will:

* Regulate holiday club sales for the first time by preventing large payments up front for long contracts and allowing consumers who are dissatisfied with the service they receive the option of ending the contract each year when annual payments become due.

* Provide a cooling off period for buyers and require the provision of fuller and clearer information in respect of all of the products covered

* Ban up-front payments before the end of the cooling off period.

* Ban accepting payment for timeshare resale services before a sale has taken place.

BERR will be consulting in 2009 on regulations to implement the Directive

Notes to Editors

The EU review of Directive 94/47/EC followed lobbying by the UK government to extend its provisions to cover long-term holiday products ( holiday clubs ), and to provide better protection for timeshare owners, particularly those who fall prey to bogus timeshare resale agents.

The agreed text builds on and extends the current Directive by covering a wider range of timeshare agreements, timeshare-related services and other long-term holiday product contracts.

Member States have two years following publication in the Official Journal to implement in national law. Publication is expected in January 2009 following adoption by the Council of Ministers yesterday.

http://media-newswire.com/release_1082712.html


Linkback - EU agrees to crack down on bogus holiday club deal
]]> 1/2/2009 7:08:53 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5172 5172
Little Sasha was born Wednesday at 1400 GMT to the applause of other amazed Northwest Airlines passengers, as flight 59 flew over Halifax, Canada.

The mother, whose name was withheld by the airline, was assisted in giving birth by two doctors who were returning from vacation, The Boston Globe said.

"She (Sasha) looked perfect. She opened her eyes and she was very happy," Dr. Natarajan Raman told the daily. "Even though we didn't have a labor room delivery set up, everything went perfect."

At 2.7 kilograms (6.7 pounds), Sasha was born five minutes after her mother went into labor and about 90 minutes before the Boeing 757 landed in Boston, where child and mother were taken to Massachusetts General Hospital as a precaution.

US officials said that since Sasha was born over Canadian airspace, she should be a Canadian citizen.

Calls at Canada's immigration ministry were not returned.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hTGMTzzGNAJu0BL2r503s_O_Ob5A


Linkback - Baby girl born over Canadian air space
]]> 1/2/2009 7:05:23 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5171 5171
According to police, this Christmas has seen more cocaine available than usual. Even at après-ski bars, the consumption of cocaine and Ecstacy has risen sharply, with drug offences up by 60 per cent in some of the resorts that attract UK tourists.

Police are claiming that some bartenders and ski instructors at the resorts sell drugs during the peak season.

“It has become normal to get not only drinks but also cocaine right there at the bars of the establishments,” said Salzburg criminal police spokesman, Major Christian Voggenberger. He indicated that the resorts most impacted by the trend are Obertauern and others in the Salzburg area.

Obertauern, one of the top ski resorts on the continents, has a reputation for glitz and glamour going back to the time of the Beatles – when they used the resort as a setting for their film Help! in 1965.

Although it is billed as a family resort, its well-known slogan “It’s Snowtime”, could take on a new meaning as cocaine replaces alcohol in après-ski popularity.

Other regions are also experiencing similar trends.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/drugs-replacing-hot-spiced-wine-at-austrian-ski-resorts-5634042.html


Linkback - Drugs replacing hot spiced wine at ski resorts
]]> 1/2/2009 7:03:03 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5170 5170
The city in England’s West Country was chosen over other cities that may have seemed more likely choices, including Bath, Edinburgh and Oxford, for example, to make its way on the DK Eyewitness Travel Guides ‘Top 10 Cities for 2009#8242;.

Others on the list include South Africa’s Cape Town and Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina. Some lesser-known cities were also featured on the list, such as Gdansk, Poland and Vilnius, Lithuania.

While Bristol, with a population of 416,000, lacks a trademark attraction such as Edinburgh Castle or the Royal Crescent in Bath, but Anna Paynton of DK Eyewitness Travel Guides commented that the city had been selected due to its variety in character.

Paynton said: “Bristol is often overlooked in favour of its more picturesque neighbour Bath, which tends to get a lot more attention. The book says that if you haven’t been to Bristol, though, you really should. The different pockets of the city have their individual charms and that’s why we included it in DK’s 2009 list. It’s a great city and one which has undergone quite a few changes over the last few years.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/top-ten-places-to-visit-in-2009-includes-bristol-5634045.html


Linkback - Top ten places to visit in 2009 includes Bristol
]]> 1/2/2009 7:01:35 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5169 5169 Are they a reputable timeshare resales company?

Linkback - Visions Of The World
]]> 1/1/2009 9:08:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5168 5168
My wishes for 2009?

1. That Diamond Resorts International will realise and acknowledge that most of the European members live in the United Kingdom. As a result, at a time when we are all suffering from the Global Recession, we in the UK are hit with an astonishing double-whammy in the form of the incredible depreciation of the Pound Sterling against the Euro. And yet, we are funding the maintenance and upgrading of the European Resorts that almost all fall within the Eurozone. DRI must realise that they are now trying to get "blood out of a stone". If it means putting certain upgrades on hold till the economy recovers - so be it!

2. That members realise that DRI is committed to certain expenditure which is dominated by the Euro. They cannot control everything that is going on and, in common with other Timeshare Operators, they have to increase our maintenance fees by much, much more than the rate of inflation even if they postpone certain upgrades. A little more patience on the part of the membership would not go amiss.

3. And this is vitally important for the proper running of the DRI section of TimeshareTalk Forum - a speedy return to this Forum for Mavo. He has far too much experience and knowledge to offer for him to remain lost to us all. So, come on Tom, bite the bullet and come back. The continued moderation of a moderator is not good news for this site - I, for one, am staying on the sidelines and will remain so until Tom returns with a clean bill of health to say what needs to be said without interference from well-intentioned but wrongly briefed senior people on this site.

Happy New Year (yes, even to Paul)

Tony

Linkback - HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009
]]> 1/1/2009 12:32:49 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5167 5167
Between my borther and I we have owned a timeshare (weeks 9 & 10) in Tenerife for around 13 years but have decided this year to surrender the timeshare - regretfully due to the current economic climate.

On 24th Dec I called CLC to inform them of this but was received with aresponse that said I need to provide 28 days notice of surrender. Given my invoice for 2009 management fees had arrived on 22Dec I was also informed that I must pay the 2009 management fee.

I checked through the T&C's and could not find any reference to the 28days and as such wrote to CLC on the 24th to explain this and to try to understand why I am expected to pay 2009 fees given there is no reference to this in the T&C's

Today I chased CLC again and actually received a response this afternoon which basically says that because the invoice has been issued I have to pay the 2009 fee.

As you can imagine, I wasn't happy with the response so wanted to try to contact someone in authority as opposed to liaising with the Call Centre Supervisor who then takes my issues/complaints to the "management team" who then ask her to respond.

I searched the net for Roy Peires emails address/phone number but to no avail so wondered if anyone has had similar issues and can offer advice or has details of how I can contact someone in authority in CLC and ask them to understand and use their T&C's

Any help much appreciated

Andy

Linkback - Timeshare Surrender
]]> 12/31/2008 4:55:17 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5166 5166 Category: For Sale: Offered
Posted on 29/12/2008 at 17:13:47

Looking to sell my weeks and also 12,000 RCI Pure Points.

Diamond las Calas 2, Lanzarote, Week 15 (usually takes in Easter), 1 bed sleeps 4, Apt no 327. 45,000 RCI POINTS when ceded. £1300 ono

Los Claveles, Tenerife, Week 17 (usually takes in Easter), Studio Apt sleeps 2, Apt no 105. 32,000 RCI POINTS when ceded. £1000 ono

12,000 RCI PURE POINTS £1000 ono


Linkback - Diamond las Calas wk15 & Los Claveles wk17
]]> 12/31/2008 3:53:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5165 5165 Think I will be letting this one go, Diamond Resorts quoting about £324 for 1 bedroom Sunset Bay.
Anyone else in a state of shock????[V]

Linkback - CLC Fees
]]> 12/31/2008 5:33:56 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5164 5164


It's a roll-over, and it's incresing in value, so 35 points for a correct answer




Linkback - Guess what it is - last one of 2008
]]> 12/30/2008 7:43:48 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5163 5163 Thanks.

Linkback - Ultimate Management
]]> 12/29/2008 9:05:11 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5162 5162
But though Michael Forbes, a fisherman and quarry worker, said "no" to the wealthy industrialist Donald Trump, he may have to get used to the sight of him across the sand dunes they both covet just north of Aberdeen.

Though Trump once described Forbes's home as a disgrace, he has apparently decided to move in next door, upping the ante in a neighbour's dispute that has gained notoriety across the world.

After two years of defiant jousting with the New York-based property tycoon, Forbes has learnt that Trump intends to convert Menie House, the 14th century listed manor which sits next to the proposed resort, into his family's "official Scottish residence".

On top of that, Trump's advisers have signed a legally-binding outline planning agreement for the £1bn golfing and holiday resort that could envelop Forbes's 23-acre plot.

It could take until 2010 before building work begins, but the work of finally designing the 500-home housing estate, 36 luxury villas, 450-bed hotel and high-rise timeshare flats has started in earnest.

Forbes, however, remains as pugnacious as ever.

In his first interview since Trump formally agreed to the Scottish government's terms, Forbes insisted he intends to stay.

"I won't be moving. He's made a fool of the government, he's made a fool of the council, but he won't make a fool out of me. They know to keep away from me now."

The ill-will between the two men began when Trump's team first tried to buy Forbes out. His home, his mother's mobile home and his sprawling collection of decrepit outbuildings and rusting tractors is in the middle of Trump's resort.

After Forbes refused Trump's offers, which rose to £450,000 for the land and a promise of work for Forbes, the tycoon's temper boiled over in October 2007, when he described Forbes's land as a "disgrace" and "disgusting". That immediately entrenched Forbes's resistance, and made him an instant celebrity.

Forbes is now getting fan mail from across the world, including cheques which he doesn't cash. One Canadian woman writes to him every week. "They keep telling me to keep up the good fight. They just can't stand Trump: everything he touches turns to rubbish. I have never ever had a bad letter; it's really good, like."

Forbes believes the global recession will hit Trump's plans far more severely than the developer will admit. "I don't think it will ever start because I don't think he has the money - no-one else has money - so why has he got some? If Trump is a billionaire, so am I."

But if construction does start, Forbes is apparently planning a campaign of resistance. Rumours are circulating among his neighbours that Trump will surround Forbes's land with a high fence. Forbes has cryptically hinted that he plans to respond.

"I will keep all that quiet just now," he said. "Oh aye. I always have something up my sleeve."

Forbes is now embroiled in another dispute with a neighbouring family, the Hewisons.

Their immaculate villa and outhouses are surrounded on two sides by Forbes's land. "They [are] itching to sell, but they can't sell because I own everything around them, but Trump won't be interested in them unless I sell," he said.

However Mark Hewison, who runs a local driving school, believes Trump will eventually get his own way.

"I'm sure at the end of the day, Mr Trump will get everything he wants and requires, and he will just develop around it," Hewison said. "He will keep gathering up all the pieces of the jigsaw."

"If we don't sell it to the Trump Organisation, the property will still be worth a fortune in the middle of that development. Wouldn't another American want to have the same postcode as Donald Trump's Scottish residence?"

Trump's project director at the Menie estate, Neil Hobday, said they had no plans to reopen negotiations with either Forbes or Hewison for their land - they would build around it.

But he confirmed the recession was influencing their planning.

The resort's timeshare blocks and housing estate, which will be sold off to finance the entire development, have to be built in phases under the planning agreement. But it could take more a year to complete all the designs and get formal planning consent - and that would allow Trump to buy more time.

It will be "at least 12 months before the first shovel hits the ground," Hobday said.

"The market has changed quite dramatically, I think we all know that; catastrophically in some places and some countries," he added. "We're not looking at a very attractive market just now. We would be hopeful that when we start building these things, the market will have returned."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/dec/29/donald-trump-scotland-golf-course


Linkback - Trump moves in next to 'local hero'
]]> 12/29/2008 5:20:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5161 5161
They are also telling customers that this may be the only time to find a holiday bargain for the coming year. Most travel operators have cut capacity for 2009, due to the economic downturn, which likely means that there will be few if any last-minute bargains to be had.

Thomas Cook has announced that anyone booking a holiday by February will be offered a 10 per cent discount, in addition to as much as £400 in early booking savings. First Choice is featuring £200 savings on holiday bookings for summer 2009.

Airlines are joining in the attempt to lure customers who are concerned about money during these difficult economic times. British Airways and Virgin have announced price reductions on a number of long-haul services, and foreign airlines operating out of the UK, such as Emirates and Lufthansa, have followed suit.

The steep discounts offered by tour companies are coming as the pound continues to weaken against the euro and US dollar, and holidaymakers are put off by the thought of taking long overseas breaks in the coming year.

Early bookings for Spain have decreased by 22 per cent over last year, reports Co-operative Travel, the largest independent travel agent in Britain. But bookings to Turkey are up by 8 per cent and to Egypt by 49 per cent, as travellers seek destinations that offer better value for their pound.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/travel-operators-launch-early-booking-price-war-5634030.html


Linkback - Travel operators launch early booking price war
]]> 12/29/2008 5:18:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5160 5160
The pilots stopped responding to air traffic control communications about halfway through Flight 1002 from Honolulu to Hilo on Feb. 13, 2007, a recently released 11-page report by the National Transportation Safety Board said.

Air traffic controllers had other planes, including another go! jet and a Continental Airlines plane, attempt to contact the flight, but they were unsuccessful.

The report says there was an 18-minute gap from about 9:40 until 9:58 a.m. when no one was able to communicate with Flight 1002 by radio.

Instead of landing at Hilo as scheduled, Flight 1002 passed over Hilo International Airport at 21,000 feet and continued straight for nearly 30 miles past the airport over the open ocean.

Phoenix-based Mesa Air Group, which owns go! airlines, fired both pilots after the incident.

The flight took off from Honolulu at 9:16 a.m. carrying 40 passengers, a flight attendant and the pilot and co-pilot.

When he woke up, the first officer realized the plane was off course, and checked to make sure there was enough fuel before waking up the captain.

When asked by flight controllers whether they had experienced an emergency, the captain replied, "No, we must have missed a hand-off or missed a call or something."

After the plane landed in Hilo at 10:15 a.m. the captain initially told controllers that they had selected the wrong radio frequency. The controllers told the pilot they would be reporting the incident to Mesa Airlines, the parent company of go! Airlines.

The pilots discussed the incident and decided they could fly the plane back to Honolulu. But when they landed in Honolulu, they removed themselves from duty.

The report notes the pilots were under some stress.

One factor was that the flight attendant assigned to work their first flight that day was late. This meant the flight crew had to rush their first three flights to get back on schedule.

The pilot told investigators he may have let his guard down after he caught up with the schedule.

"Working as hard as we had, we tend to relax," he said. "We had gotten back on schedule, it was comfortable in cockpit, the pressure was behind us. The warm Hawaiian sun was blaring in as we went eastbound. I just kind of closed my eyes for a minute, enjoying the sunshine, and dozed off," he told investigators.

The 53-year-old pilot of the plane, who is not named in the report, also told investigators he had never inadvertently fallen asleep before, but admitted to regular napping while in flight.

After the incident, the captain was diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea, a condition that his physician said could cause "significant fatigue."

Sleep apnea causes people to stop breathing repeatedly, preventing a restful night of sleep.

The 23-year-old first officer, who is also not named, said he had never fallen asleep before on a flight. But on Feb. 13 he entered what he described as a sleeplike state where he could "hear what was going on but could not comprehend or make it click."

The flight attendant on the plane said she wore a watch but did not recall whether she looked at it during the flight. She said she did not notice anything unusual and did not feel there was anything unsafe.

The captain said he went to bed between 8 and 9 p.m. on Feb. 12 after working from 5:40 a.m. to 2:47 p.m. He woke up at 4 a.m. on Feb. 13 and did not have breakfast, but snacked on cookies with his first officer later in the morning.

The first officer worked with the captain on Feb. 12 went to bed at 9:30 p.m. He woke up at about 5 a.m. and had a pastry for breakfast.

The report didn't identify the pilots by name.

The Federal Aviation Administration identified them as Captain Scott Oltman and First Officer Dillon Shepley when it suspended their licenses in September.

The FAA suspended Oltman's license for 60 days and Shepley's for 45 days.

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2008-12-28-go-sleeping-pilots_N.htm


Linkback - Go! airline pilots admit sleeping during flight
]]> 12/29/2008 5:16:54 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5159 5159
This lot have sparked fury by yanking up maintenance fees by 40 per cent in a year.

In some cases that amounts to an annual bill approaching £1,000. You could buy a decent holiday for that, without being tied to the same company and resorts.

Some readers who have contacted us are so dismayed by the price hike that they're considering dumping their timeshares.

There's not much point trying to sell them, because who's going want to buy a huge millstone like an annual bill of a grand?

We first asked Diamond Resorts chairman Stephen Cloobeck what was going on in September and he hasn't got back.

But we've finally heard from president Simon Crawford-Welch, who told us: "The increase in maintenance fees is a necessary move in today's environment to ensure we offer our members the quality of accommodation and vacation experience which they deserve.

"These increases were approved by the various homeowner committees and boards and were implemented with the full support and consent of those entities."

Not sure that the fee increase really has such wide - spread support, as just one comment on our Diamond Resorts blog from Robert and Lorraine Cooper suggests.

"We too have contacted Diamond to say we cannot afford to pay the 2009 fee," they say.

"We did however have a response saying that basically unless we are declared bankrupt, are over 75 with health problems affecting our income, or dead (for which they need a death certificate!) then we have got to pay.

"Surely if enough of us refuse they will have to listen to our complaints."

Meanwhile we've had no answer from Diamond to our latest question: How much is it planning in increase maintenance fees next year?

http://blogs.mirror.co.uk/investigations/2008/12/answers-some-anyway-from-diamo.html


Linkback - Answers (some anyway) from DRI - Fee Increase
]]> 12/29/2008 5:14:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5158 5158
Linkback - management fees
]]> 12/29/2008 12:23:21 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5157 5157
“This group has been one of the leading vacation ownership developers in the world for many years as a result of its reputation for delivering high-quality products and services,” said David C. Gilbert, executive vice president of resort sales and marketing for Interval International. “We’re thrilled they have chosen Interval as they expand their impressive portfolio with Grande Luxxe Residence Club Nuevo Vallarta, which promises to be their finest product offering to date.”

“We have selected Interval as our exchange partner for our first luxury resort, and in doing so, are pleased to join some of the best-known hospitality brands and independent developers in the vacation ownership industry,” noted Felipe Ramirez, chief executive officer of the Vedanta Capital Group. “Our members now will have the opportunity to vacation in a broad array of high quality resorts around the world.”

The Grand Luxxe Nuevo Vallarta will be set amidst beautiful landscaping and overlooks Banderas Bay, a 30-mile wide stretch of water surrounded by tropical jungles and lush rain forests. Each villa will be appointed with elegant furnishings crafted from specially selected woods, granite countertops, as well as upscale appliances and electronics.

The Grand Luxxe Nuevo Vallarta will provide an ideal setting for visitors to enjoy sun, sand, and surf, in a tranquil atmosphere away from crowds and congestion. Located only 20 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta airport, guests can enjoy numerous onsite amenities such as restaurants, a spa, a gym, a swimming pool, and multiple water sports. Nearby Puerto Vallarta retains the unique charm of a seaside Mexican village, although it has developed into a cosmopolitan, international tourist destination, with stylish shops, a bustling municipal market, varied gourmet restaurants, and nightclubs.

http://www.thetimeshareblog.com/interval-international-adds-grand-luxxe-residence-club-nuevo-vallarta-to-its-global-vacation-exchange-network/


Linkback - II Adds Grand Luxxe Residence Club Nuevo Vallarta
]]> 12/26/2008 11:57:55 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5156 5156
The accident left many passengers with irritated eyes and vomiting, but none of them wanted to get off the plane after waiting days to catch a flight to their holiday destination.

At about 8:30 a.m., the fumes filled the cabin of Flight 528 bound for Burbank, Calif. The 143 passengers and six crew members started smelling strong fumes as the de-icer was being applied to the plane.

"All of a sudden, all of this billowing smoke was coming out of the vents and then we were kind of locked in there for like a half-an-hour after that. And when they finally let us out of the gate, a lot of us were nauseous,” said passenger Bob Vitti.

Airport officials say the de-icer is a standard product that's used frequently, but that it’s meant only for the outside of an airplane.

"So if somehow fumes may have come in through maybe a air system, filtration system, or another way, those fumes could've been something that was a slightly toxic or irritating to folks' eyes and throats,” said Sea-Tac Airport spokesman Perry Cooper.

The plane returned to the gate, where airport medics briefly evaluated 18 passengers, giving some eye washes. All the passengers had numbers written on their hands as they were being checked by paramedics.

Following Alaska Airlines policy, the six crew members and one non-working Alaska flight attendant were taken to nearby Highline Medical Center where they were checked out and released about an hour later.

“I think the pilot got the worst of it,” said passenger Arianna Morgan.

Many passengers, like Morgan, had been waiting for days for a flight out of Sea-Tac, delayed by unusually bad winter weather.

“They said that if they thought that I was getting sick, they wouldn’t let me on the plane. So, I went to the bathroom and I got sick in the bathroom so they wouldn’t see that,” said Morgan. “I didn’t want to go to the hospital because I knew I wouldn’t get home for Christmas.”

Despite the scare, every passenger decided to re-board a replacement flight and landed safely in California.

The FAA and Alaska Airlines are investigating what caused the fumes to get into the plane.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28380709/


Linkback - De-icer fumes sicken airline passengers
]]> 12/26/2008 11:54:57 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5155 5155
The Boca Raton-based company (NYSE: BXG) filed a prospectus on Dec. 16, saying it would issue an amount of common stock, preferred stock, debt securities and subscription rights to purchase additional common stock or other securities in the company. The amount hasn’t been determined yet.

The transfer agent is BNY Mellon.

Bluegreen said it would use the proceeds from the sale for “general corporate purposes” or to acquire or invest in other companies or assets.

The company has been shedding hundreds of employees as it reduces its focus on making new sales, which were hampered by the difficulty of obtaining buyer financing.

Bluegreen shares were up 2 cents to $2.56 in morning trading. The 52-week high was $12.54 on July 22. The 52-week low was $1.50 on Dec. 5.

http://www.bizjournals.com/southflorida/stories/2008/12/22/daily27.html


Linkback - Bluegreen seeks to raise $100M
]]> 12/26/2008 11:53:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5154 5154
British Airways, for example, has announced a return fare to New York for as low as £259 and has also reduced the fare on flights to 75 other destinations.

Virgin Atlantic has said that its sale prices will be £1 lower than BA on many of its long-haul destinations, including Los Angeles and Chicago in the US.

Seat sales are an annual event at the end of the Christmas holiday season, but this year analysts believe that they are part of the ongoing battle among airlines to fill their planes during worsening economic conditions.

The real extent of the discounts is masked, however, by airport fees and taxes and airline fuel surcharges. Without these extra charges, the airfare for transatlantic travel is actually around £100 return, which is a level that has not been seen since the 1980s.

Return fares to India have also been deeply discounted following the terrorist attacks in Mumbai in November. BA has cut fares to Calcutta by £71, down to £359, to Delhi by £121, to £359, to Mumbai by £91, to £329.

Foreign airlines operating out of the UK have followed suit, offering discounted fares as well.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/carriers-in-britain-launch-airfare-price-war-5634018.html


Linkback - Carriers in Britain launch airfare price war
]]> 12/26/2008 11:51:42 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5153 5153 I am looking to sell my 12000 DRI points as:-
a) the maintenance fee just keeps going up and up and
b) as a teacher, term time availability means planning a year in advance.... and I just can't do that right now.

SO I have a few questions:-
1. has anyone out there actually managed to sell points?
2. what is a realistic resale value
3. would you recommend any sites/people ( you mention an escrow agent?? ... what's that?) to help sell them

Many thanks
ann


Linkback - Has anyone managed to sell their DRI points?
]]> 12/26/2008 1:43:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5152 5152
My question is that typical to the timeshare industry, we have huge peaks during our season band (19 weeks in a year)and our refusals during this period hit the roof. We open bookings 6 months in advance.

I need to know from other developers/marketing companies who have a similar centralised system as to what are the best practices in managing refusals.


look forward to hearing from you


Ajay

Linkback - refusal handling
]]> 12/26/2008 8:32:15 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5151 5151
I love my home resort and should be there for xmas and new year. But my partner was made redundant twice this year. Once unemployed for five months of it. I work for an ailing bank or banks, consortium of partners, multiple government bail out bank - I think I must be a civil servant to at least 3 governments now!!! Earlier in the year I was flying with great expectations with a renewed vigour in personal development passing higher level courses and increasing my standing in the workplace. There's a long story of a brain injury and recovery and now I am basically SUPERMAN. True to say that once I was blind and now I can see (neurological issue)I had no confidence for some time but now am forging ahead having changed tack and looked at retraining. Qualified to teach and specialising in occupational health and safety with a strong interest in fire. I now see a job market worth near zero and working for a corporate that may aswell be closed if it were not for government involvement.

So that's my everything else story- a jobless partner and a lack of opportunity for myself to carry us forward to a bright new future. I wonder how it is for most of you? I'm feeling bitter right now I suppose but I am confident of making positive changes for me one day. But I just want to say life is a beach mis-spell as today I am not on my beach and can't see my way to get there again presently.
I have 3 houses repossessed in my street this last month- I haven't got that bad as yet and don't intend to. But is everyone affected?
How quick has the crunch got you or not?

Linkback - Credit Crunch blues
]]> 12/26/2008 8:29:55 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5150 5150
Linkback - RCI charging legal fees
]]> 12/23/2008 7:31:37 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5149 5149 Does anyone know anything about this resort in Caloundra, Queensland?

cheers

Linkback - Worldmark Golden Beach, Australia
]]> 12/23/2008 3:14:12 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5148 5148
We only bought our timeshare, Porto Mare in Madeira, this year. One of the clinching reasons for buying a week was the idea that we could bring weeks forward, or hold them back, to make two week holidays. This the salesman promised we could do.

In subsequent correspondence, we were told this again, now they say, they are full for 2010 and we cannot do this. Needless to say, there's nothing in the contract about this flexibility.

It seems we've been mis-sold the deal, but as there's nothing in the contract, does this mean we're stuck with single weeks holidays?

As it stands, it would seem that we can only try for an 'internal transfer in 2009, as my wife cannot get 'our' week off work. Or give it up to RCI.

Linkback - Promises
]]> 12/22/2008 5:12:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5147 5147 Guess who it is:



More of the picture to be revealed daily.

7 points for a correct answer.






Linkback - Guess who - 21 December
]]> 12/21/2008 10:32:59 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5146 5146
2-beds, sleeps 6, both beds with ensuite. Additional shower room with WC and sauna in-unit.

All the other high-end fixtures with this resort.

550 GBP to cover maintenance fees as I now live back in Canada after 25 years in the UK.

Cathie

Linkback - CAMERON HOUSE RENTAL MARCH 2009
]]> 12/21/2008 5:42:43 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5145 5145
“Despite the potential longer term benefits for Qantas and BA, the airlines have not been able to come to an agreement over the key terms of the merger, at this time,” the airlines said in identical statements released on Thursday.

Earlier this month the two carriers revealed that they were in discussions regarding a consolidation that could help both cope with the global financial crisis that has led to a sharp drop in passenger demand.

Thursday’s statements indicated that the two airlines would continue cooperating on their joint business operating between the UK and Australia through the oneworld alliance. The alliance joins 10 international airlines in a code-sharing partnership.

Alan Joyce, the new Qantas chief executive, issued a warning two weeks ago that there was no guarantee that the consolidation with BA would occur. What he said at that time was that a merger could be beneficial, but a number of factors had to be considered.

The discussions were focused on a “dual-listed company structure,” allowing each carrier to retain its name and its branding. No other details were released, except that the Australian government required Qantas to remain under majority Australian ownership.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/british-airways-and-qantas-end-merger-talks-5634002.html


Linkback - British Airways and Qantas end merger talks
]]> 12/21/2008 8:28:59 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5144 5144
Manny Fontenla-Novoa, the Thomas Cook CEO, is saying that the January-March period is a time when cash flow is at its lowest point in the year, and that those companies without adequate banking facilities will be in a struggle to survive.

According to figures released by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), 33 travel operators failed in 2008, which is eight more than failed in 2007. In addition, 26 airlines collapsed.

“If companies can survive the next three months they should be fine, but this period is crucial,” Fontenla-Novoa said.

The travel executive added that a number of airlines are also in danger of failing during the economic downturn, but did not elaborate on which ones he thought were most at risk.

Countries hit hardest by the weakening pound have been Greece and Spain, as the pound and euro have approached parity. Countries outside the euro zone have seen a sharp rise in the number of visitors from the UK, with Thomas Cook reporting bookings to destinations such as Turkey being up by 20 per cent over last year.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/thomas-cook-predicts-collapse-of-15-travel-operators-5633996.html


Linkback - Thomas Cook predicts collapse of 15 travel ops
]]> 12/21/2008 8:27:54 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5143 5143
"Hawaii's a fabulous place to travel to. It's been the top leisure place of many years and for good reason," said Gaylord as he surveyed the city, ocean and Diamond Head views from one of the lanais in his penthouse unit.

Gaylord said he and his wife fell in love with Hawaii all over again last Christmas during his first visit to Oahu in 30 years. Since then, the couple has returned to the islands three times in one year and showed their newfound aloha for Oahu with the purchase of one of Hilton's spacious penthouse units, he said.

The economy might be soft and Hawaii's visitor industry may be down, but it's hard to equate these facts with the enthusiasm for the opening of Waikiki's first purposely built timeshare.

More than 200 owners and other guests will join Gaylord tomorrow for the official grand opening, which celebrates a real market anomaly. All other timeshare products in Waikiki, except for the Grand Waikikian, were converted from older apartments or hotel buildings, and these days the credit crunch has ensured that few timeshare projects are making it out of planning.

But Mark Wang, president of Hilton Grand Vacations, said he's not worried about timing.

"We're 27 percent sold — that's actually ahead of pace," Wang said. "We thought we'd only be about 20 percent sold out by this time."

Japanese empty nesters and multi-generational travelers have gravitated to the product, which has also seen strong interest from buyers on the U.S. West Coast and other parts of North America, Wang said.

While Wang said the average buyer has spent $60,000 a week, the project's higher-end product has seen good pickup.

"The $300,000 weeks have sold out during this release," said Bryan Klum, executive vice president of Asia/Pacific for Hilton Grand Vacations. "The people who are traveling are the ones that want to come."

The 331-unit Grand Waikikian by Hilton Grand Vacation Club is the company's fifth timeshare development in Hawaii and finest offering to date. The company also runs two others on Oahu and two on the Big Island.

Suites at Hilton's newest offering retail for $45,000 to $300,000 for one-week stays at the one, two and three bedroom units. Each suite features an outdoor lanai, full kitchen, washer and dryer, complimentary high-speed wireless Internet access, flat-screen TVs, deep soaking tubs, upscale furnishings and rich wood and stone details. The resort will also have a 5,000-square-foot pool, scheduled for completion in January that will offer a waterslide, waterfalls and swim-through grotto terraces.

In deference to the luxury market, there are also five penthouse floors, offering a separate check in-area, concierge and lounge. On the penthouse floors — from 35 to 39 — suites are appointed with amenities designed to appeal to the project's primary Japan market. These suites feature Japanese house wares and Jacuzzi tubs for extended soaking.

"We are trying to make the Japanese buyer feel very comfortable with our product," said Dione T. Lewis, the Grand Waikikian's general manger.

The timeshare also features a pre-arrival and post-departure lounge, Lewis said. Guests at the lounge can unwind and take showers before checking in or after checking out of the property, she said.

Grand Waikikian Snapshot

Location: 1811 Ala Moana Blvd.
Online: www.grandwaikikian.com
Architect: Group 70 International
General contractor: Dick Pacific Construction Co.
Interior designer: Carl Ross Design
Size: 331 total units, ranging from one to three bedrooms
Cost: Unit weeks sell from $45,000 to $300,000
Sales: 27 percent sold
Not an owner?

The Grand Waikikian is offering a Mahalo package for hotel guests wishing to book at the property. One-bedroom suites with a separate pull-out couch and as full kitchen run $349 a night. Kamaaina bookings are 20 percent off.
Reservations: www.hiltonfamilyhawaii.com or (800) 446-6677 and ask for plan code H9.

http://www.starbulletin.com/business/20081219_Waikikis_Grand_opening.html?page=1&c=y

Linkback - Waikiki's Grand opening - Hilton Timeshare
]]> 12/21/2008 8:25:42 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5142 5142 any help would be great

Thanks Dennis

Linkback - BIENNIAL AGREEMENT CANCELLATION
]]> 12/18/2008 6:47:45 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5141 5141
THE ClubSM
Education & Enrichment Seminars 2009

Following the success of our inaugural Education & Enrichment Seminar held earlier this year, we are delighted to invite you to the first in a series of events taking place at Diamond Resorts International® destinations across the United Kingdom in 2009.

For your convenience, you can join us for either an afternoon (2.00 p.m.) or evening (7.00 p.m.) seminar at Pine Lake Resort on 2 February or Wychnor Park Country Club on 3 February. Completely free of charge, these seminars offer up to 80 spaces for attendees per seminar with tickets allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

THE ClubSM Education & Enrichment Seminars 2009 will be all about relaxation... simplified. During these friendly and informal two-hour sessions, we will focus on the essential topics that we hope will assist you with getting the most from the simplicity, choice and comfort we are committed to providing every member. These seminars will include the following topics:

Overview of the structure of THE ClubSM and the Collections
How to use the website and your online member account
Update on Diamond SelectionsSM, your member benefits programme from THE ClubSM
How to use Interval International® and your Interval Gold® membership
To reserve your tickets, please e-mail theclubseminars@diamondresorts.com. Please indicate the number of tickets you require (maximum of two), your name (as noted on your membership), membership number, postcode and telephone number.

We look forward to meeting you next year.

Patrick Duffy
Chief Experience Officer

Sarah Hulme
Vice President, Global Club Operations


Invitation is subject to availability and we reserve the right to allocate tickets (80 available at Pine Lake Resort and 60 available at Wychnor Park Country Club) at our discretion. No accommodation, travel or incidental expenses are included with this offer of participation. This is not a timeshare presentation but an invitation for an update on your membership with THE ClubSM at Diamond Resorts International®.




Linkback - DRI announce further roadshow dates
]]> 12/18/2008 7:15:21 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5140 5140
In addition to the affiliation, Southern Sun has selected Interval to provide a comprehensive package of customised services, including programme-design support and back-office points-based reservation services. This seamless integration will leverage Interval’s global infrastructure and complement Southern Sun’s resources. Interval specialises in working with resort developers to create vacation ownership programmes of every configuration, including points-based club products.

“We are honoured to have the opportunity to provide a wide range of value-added services for Southern Sun’s owners. The company has been a major player in the region’s vacation ownership industry for many years and we look forward to working with Southern Sun, as they take their already successful business to the next level,” said Craig M. Nash, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Interval Leisure Group, parent company of Interval International. “We are also very pleased to offer our members the chance to visit these quality resorts in Southern Africa, a destination that’s known worldwide for its one-of-a-kind vacation experiences set amidst spectacular scenery.”

Graham Wood, managing director of Southern Sun said, “We are extremely proud of our partnership with Interval International. The two teams worked incredibly hard to make this dream a reality. Going forward, we will be able to offer our Lifestyle Resort owners true world-class service excellence and a wide variety of choice on a global scale.”

Southern Sun Lifestyle Resorts division operates a multi-location vacation ownership programme with six properties situated at destinations including Garden Route, KwaZulu-Natal, and Mpumalanga. The programme currently comprises approximately 33,000 members, or more than eight percent of the country’s existing timeshare owners, who own in excess of 43,000 vacation ownership weeks. These consumers will benefit from the services to be provided by Interval under this agreement, which commences in February 2009.

According to the Timeshare Institute of Southern Africa (TISA), some 400,000 owners hold weeks or points for timeshares in the country and a recent survey revealed that nearly two-thirds of respondents feel that timesharing has increased the amount of time they spend on holidays. With the affiliation of Southern Sun, Interval has gained a strong platform for future growth in the region. Alex Bosch, executive director of TISA said, “We are excited to have a company of the magnitude and reputation of Interval significantly enhance its presence in South Africa. This is a truly positive development for the industry and provides real choice in the marketplace.”

http://www.thetimeshareblog.com/interval-international-wins-southern-sun-exchange-business/


Linkback - Interval Wins Southern Sun Exchange Business
]]> 12/17/2008 8:47:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5138 5138
The airline’s new services to Croatia, Cyprus, Greece and Italy will commence in the spring of 2009. Service to Larnaca, in Cyprus will be offered from the end of March, while the Dubrovnik, Naples and Santorini flights will start in May.

Last week, airports operator BAA announced that Gatwick passenger numbers had dropped by 13.5 per cent over November of 2007, but easyJet is still seeing a potential for growth at the second-largest airport in the UK.

“EasyJet has grown dramatically at Gatwick over the last few years and this will further strengthen our position at Gatwick, which is our biggest single airport base,” said easyJet’s general manager for the UK, David Osborne.

The airline will also be launching a new service to Nice, France, from the east Midlands airport beginning in April.

Other airlines have also announced expansion in services in the midst of the current financial crisis. CityJet will launch new flights from London City to Amsterdam from 5 January; VLM will commence daily service from London City to Rotterdam and Eindhoven from 12 January.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/easyjet-adds-new-routes-despite-downturn-5633991.html


Linkback - EasyJet adds new routes despite downturn
]]> 12/17/2008 8:44:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5137 5137
The popular low-cost airline said that it was collaborating with Thailand’s tourism authority to help bring tourists and business travellers back to the country by “reinstating the core message that it is now safe to travel back to the Land of Smiles.”

Under its marketing campaign called “Get Your Baht To Thailand,” which is a play on the unit of Thailand’s currency, AirAsia will be giving away 100,000 free tickets on flights to Bangkok from Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Myanmar, Singapore and Vietnam, as well as on flights within the country.

Passengers will be responsible for paying only taxes and administrative fees. In November, AirAsia removed all fuel surcharges from its flights.

“We hope that this campaign will instil the confidence among travellers and also help to boost tourism which is vital at this juncture,” said the group’s chief executive Tony Fernandes.

Tickets are available only on the AirAsia website from 17-19 December, for travel scheduled between 6 January and 31 March 2009.

AirAsia operates approximately 400 international flights each week connecting Thailand with other countries in Southeast Asia and with China. Its Thai affiliate, Thai AirAsia, operates 378 weekly flights.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/airasia-offering-free-tickets-to-thailand-destinations-5633993.html


Linkback - AirAsia offering free tickets to Thailand
]]> 12/17/2008 8:42:51 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5136 5136 just been reading these posts and would like some help please, anyone on here know about SOS Solutions they rang and asked about my timeshare, they say they can sell it to corporate clients, no money upfront but they want me to fly out to Spain to sell "face to face" any info would be great thanks

Linkback - SOS Solutions
]]> 12/17/2008 6:24:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5139 5139 It would appear that this is mainly down to disagreements with the mangement of the hotel.
Seasons hope to have acquired a new resort in the Algarve by Spring 2009 and this time the hint is that it would be wholly owned by Seasons.

Linkback - Alpinus Update
]]> 12/17/2008 8:46:46 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5135 5135
Jam time for Dave?



We have just recieved and email detailing three new destinations in Ireland:

East Clare Golf Holiday Village

Dangan Lodge Cottages

and Fisherman's Lodge

With an introductory offer of 75% off the points value for arrivals between 1 January 2009 and 31st March 2009

This link gives you the details:

https://www.diamondresorts.com/europe/ResortSearch_Results.aspx?SearchType=freeform¶m=&affiliates=Y&premier=&country=IE&addr=&city=&state=&postal=&amenities=&amenitiescount=



Linkback - Jam time again?
]]> 12/16/2008 9:22:46 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5134 5134
Imagine that shower calling themselves "customer services"

Keep up the good work,

Billyboy.

Linkback - Penman and Sommerlad.
]]> 12/15/2008 9:05:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5133 5133
Linkback - Great British Marketing
]]> 12/15/2008 7:34:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5132 5132 I am interested in selling the week/points and made a few inquiries as PG weren't interested in buying it back.
Trawled the Net and came up with {banned word/phrase}..... {banned word/phrase} have come back with an alleged buyer who will pay me £2,960 for my points!!! (blow me down) No surprise however that {banned word/phrase} want me to pay £472 up front to cover fees and legal document transfer and the like.
I asked the obvious question of what happens when 'their buyer' pulls out and they are sitting on my £472 and got a load of waffle about being retained on their list for future presentations etc etc.
I suggested that if that £472 became £100 or less I may be interested.
So - would like to know if anyone out there had been involved in any sort of transaction with {banned word/phrase} (positive or Negative) Or beating that, if anyone would be interested in a week at PG [:)] (and yes I will post that properly in the classifieds)
Thanks

Linkback - Offer for my tweek - expert opinion sought
]]> 12/15/2008 4:06:33 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5131 5131
Linkback - canal boat hire
]]> 12/15/2008 12:23:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5130 5130
Credit for consumers to finance timeshare purchases is harder to come by, and the securitization market for hotel companies selling bonds backed by timeshare deals has mostly closed its doors.

"In the last few months, sales have really dropped off a cliff -- consumer credit is really disappearing in a lot of ways," said Jeremy Glaser, lodging industry analyst at investment research firm Morningstar.

"The syndication (securitization) market has all but gone," said lodging industry veteran Bjorn Hanson of New York University.

This is a double dose of bad news for big hotel firms like Wyndham Worldwide Corp, Marriott International Inc and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc, for which timeshare had become a big earner in recent years.

Wyndham said on Monday it will cut about 4,000 jobs as it shrinks its timeshare business to reduce its reliance on a shaky securitization market.

Wyndham expects to reduce vacation ownership interest sales in 2009 to $1.2 billion from expected gross sales of $2 billion in 2008 by eliminating sales offices and marketing programs.

Marriott International's third-quarter profit fell 28 percent as timeshare slowed. Marriott has warned that 2009 will be tough and that its timeshare investment spending is expected to decline to reflect weaker demand.

Starwood also reported declining revenues from timeshare in the third quarter. Starwood said it closed three sales centers and was reducing overhead to fit lowered expectations for the business.

GLOOMY
The timeshare industry has not heard such bad news for a long time.

Timeshare sales in the United States grew from about $2.7 billion in 1997 to $10.6 billion in 2007. But 2008 sales are unlikely to set the heather on fire.

"We don't think 2008 will show much growth," said Howard Nusbaum, president of the American Resort Development Association.

"We kind of feel like victims -- the inability to monetize the consumer debt has forced developers to slow their sales," Nusbaum said.

For companies in the travel and leisure sectors, the timeshare slowdown comes on the back of gloomy forecasts for 2009 for their overall business.

Companies throughout the sector -- including hotel, cruise ship, theme park and gambling concerns -- have all warned in recent weeks that their businesses have slowed or that things could get worse next year.

Consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers said that demand for hotels in 2009 is forecast to fall by 2 percent which, when coupled with an increase in supply, is expected to reduce occupancy levels to 58.6 percent -- the lowest rate of occupancy since 1971.

PwC expects a key measure of the hotel industry's health, revenue per available room (RevPAR), to fall 5.8 percent next year, following this year's estimated 0.8 percent decline. That would be the industry's first back-to-back decline in the widely watched measure since 2001-2002.

As consumers examine their budgets, so-called discretionary spending is among the first items to be cut.

"Among discretionary spending, vacation ownership (timeshare) is high on that list," said New York University's Hanson. (Editing by Gerald E. McCormick)

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/8144273


Linkback - Timeshare industry hit by credit crisis
]]> 12/15/2008 7:08:12 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5129 5129
The move will take effect from 31 January, which will mean the budget carrier cutting 23 services per week, from Birmingham, East Midlands, Liverpool, Stansted and Shannon airports. Flights from Dublin to Fuerteventura have already been discontinued.

According to Ryanair, the local tourism group AEI failed to meet its obligations to promote Fuerteventura as a tourism destination, as stipulated in a commercial agreement with the carrier.

“This is a very black day for Fuerteventura and one which will have a severe impact on tourism and the livelihoods of its islanders,” said the airline’s deputy chief executive, Michael Cawley.

In November, Ryanair announced that it intended to discontinue services on the route, unless AEI was able “to remedy their contract breach” within 30 days.

Last year the Irish airline flew 250,000 passengers on the Fuerteventura route.

After the Newquay airport announced that it was closing for three weeks in December because of construction delays, Ryanair cancelled all its flights into and out of the airport.

After a row with the local tourism authority in Valencia, Ryanair cancelled all services to the popular Spanish destination, and has also cut its three times weekly service to Alicante from Durham Tees Valley.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/ryanair-ends-all-service-to-fuerteventura-5633969.html


Linkback - Ryanair ends all service to Fuerteventura
]]> 12/15/2008 7:05:01 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5128 5128
The figures from Bank of England, which measures the value of the pound against a basket of international currencies, showed Britain’s currency at its lowest point since the bank began keeping records 28 years ago.

According to currency experts, the last time the pound was this low was in the mid-70s, when Britain faced bankruptcy and had to seek emergency funding from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The pound has continued to drop as fears grow over increased government borrowing levels. The Chancellor, Alistair Darling, revealed recently that public borrowing is likely to exceed £1 trillion in the next few years.

Sterling is not seen to be as strong as other major “global” currencies, such as the euro or the dollar, during this economic downturn. Figures released by the Conservatives have shown that the government’s debt is less credit-worthy than that issued by the fast food chain McDonalds.

The chief economic adviser to the Ernst & Young ITEM club, Peter Spencer, commented: “You need a strong economy for a strong currency and there’s no strength in the UK economy. Normally you would look to the authorities to support the currency but the Bank of England is reluctant to intervene. It is not clear where the floor is.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/pound-at-lowest-level-since-1980-5633970.html


Linkback - Pound at lowest level since 1980
]]> 12/15/2008 7:03:48 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5127 5127
''There's no debt for development,'' said Diego Lowenstein, a partner in the deal that would have transformed the old Seville hotel into a luxury resort. ``Lenders across the board are not doing anything.''

Announced at the peak of the housing boom, the Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences offered luxury timeshare units (known as fractionals) and traditional condominiums selling for $900,000 and up.

It would have been the fifth Ritz-Carlton property in South Florida, but as a residential resort, the only one not to accommodate transient guests.

The news comes a day after the chief financial officer of Marriott, which owns Ritz-Carlton, said the company was scaling back timeshare developments around the world to meet contracting demand for the product.

Lowenstein, CEO of Lionstone Development, which owns South Beach's Ritz-Carlton hotel, said sales were strong enough to support the project. But he and partner Fortune International couldn't find a lender willing to back the $200 million construction tab.

''We came to market in a very difficult time,'' he said. Fortune issued a statement Wednesday confirming the project was canceled, a decision Lowenstein said was reached in the last several weeks.

The sudden demise of the Ritz-Carlton Club reflects the dire landscape facing developers.

Island Gardens, a planned $640 million hotel and retail complex on Miami's Watson Island that includes fractional units, has delayed the launch of construction while it seeks financing.

Scott Berman, head of PricewaterhouseCooper's lodging division, said few developers can get the cash they need to build, writing in an e-mail that ``99 percent of all new development in the leisure sector is in paralysis due to a lack of access to capital.''

In May 2005, an entity backed by Fortune and Lionstone paid $25 million for former site of the Seville hotel, five-acres of oceanfront land at 29th street and Collins Avenue. As they unravel plans for the Ritz-Carlton Club, the partners will be pursuing a new hotel there, Lowenstein said.

''The numbers work for a hotel,'' he said. ``It's the last remaining large property in South Beach.''

Lowenstein said there are no lenders willing to back a hotel venture on the property, either. He's counting on the credit crisis easing in the first half of 2009 to allow for the development process to begin again.

http://www.miamiherald.com/business/story/808035.html


Linkback - No lender willing to back Ritz-Carlton timeshare
]]> 12/15/2008 7:02:39 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5126 5126 Guess who it is:



More of the picture to be revealed daily. The more that is revealed, the less the reward.

Today it is worth 4 points!




Linkback - Guess who - 14 December
]]> 12/14/2008 11:07:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5125 5125
Why not look at expanding the gymnasium facilities a little at some of the UK resorts, then flog these awful weeks as a cheaper way of obtaining gym membership to the local population?

If you were to look at a family gym membership it may be in the region of over a thousand pounds per year (presuming a family of four).

How much would it be for a low season fixed week at the likes of pine lake, followed by annual maintenance for that week?

It is a win win situation for the buyer as they could have access to a gym, pool, sauna, jacuzzi and maybe even a steam room; and a holiday week they could use or try to exchange.

OK it might cost a few thousand to extend the building and put in more gym equipment, but in the longer term it will more than pay for itself.

The locals could have a good quality gym available to use when they like, the DRI members would have bigger and better facilities and DRI would have management fees coming in for the less favourable weeks.



Linkback - Unsold weeks - is there another way to shift them?
]]> 12/14/2008 10:45:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5124 5124
Linkback - Any positive experiences in selling your timeshar?
]]> 12/12/2008 6:24:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5123 5123
We fell victim to some very clever sales talk and are intending to bring this up with management. Has anyone else found this to be a huge scam? We have spent all our savings and havent even been there.

IF YOU ARE THINKING OF BUYING INTO THIS THEN DONT - YOU WILL BE HUGELY DISSAPOINTED!!!!!!!!!! IT IS A BIG MONEY MAKING CON!!!!!!!

Linkback - ANFI - WHAT A CON
]]> 12/12/2008 5:47:22 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5122 5122
Thank you
Penelopea

Linkback - Brockwood Hall
]]> 12/12/2008 2:57:42 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5121 5121
Linkback - Regency Shores S.L
]]> 12/11/2008 9:49:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5120 5120
Has anyone heard of this company. .
Are they just another scam?
.

Linkback - Worldwide Holiday Partners
]]> 12/11/2008 4:33:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5119 5119 Has anybody heard of them? I have already had {banned word/phrase} for about 4 days running, same ole stuff, we have a buyer for your Holiday CLub package,blah de blah. Now this company claims to be based in Gatwick and can send me to an office in Chelmsford by appointment and they guarantee a company will buy this off me ( no strings) sign a contract on the day, bring deeds of ownership and proof of id. 7 days later money in your bank ac then you send off deeds by registered post. Thats it! Hmmm, except for the £99 they wanted booking fee which was FULLY refundable. I asked him to send me a copy via email so i could read, ho hum, stll waiting. I cannot find out anything about this company on the net. Obviously i smelt a rat, and i dont think this package thing will ever get sold, but i am getting fed up of that list circulating again via the rogues.
Thanks
Lorraine

Linkback - CMS (creative marketing solutions)
]]> 12/11/2008 1:11:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5118 5118
My interest is on a quarter share scheme giving 13 weeks per annum on a rotation system with all costs divided by the four owners.



Linkback - Fractional Ownership
]]> 12/11/2008 12:46:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5117 5117
The association, which represents owners of condos in Ocean Walk's south tower, filed a lawsuit Tuesday in civil court against Wyndham, claiming the Orlando-based company misused association funds. In the 300-unit south tower, there are 176 units owned by individuals and 124 units in Wyndham's time-share program.

The action comes three months after Wyndham sued the association, claiming it had a contractual right to use the south tower's common areas for marketing purposes, and that it has the sole right to market condos at the resort.

The association countered that lawsuit by alleging Wyndham, which is a part the world's largest time-share company, was required to pay a fee for use of the facilities. The association said $10,000 a day was reasonable and demanded the company pay the fee or cease its operations at the resort.

The case continues winding its way through the legal system.

Erik Hawks, an attorney for Wyndham, could not be reached for comment.

Mark Bogen, the association's attorney, said the funds allegedly misused by Wyndham "could be in excess of a million dollars."

Ocean Walk II Vacation Condominium Association Inc. and Ocean Walk Vacations Ownership Association Inc. also were named as defendants in the 50-count lawsuit.

Besides the funds, the suit alleged Wyndham hired an unlicensed manager to manage the association in violation of state law.

"What is hard to believe is that even though the board of directors fired them as our management company, Wyndham refuses to give us control of our bank account, bank records or financial information," said Craig Jackson, president of the association and a banking executive, in a telephone interview.

Jackson said the board fired Wyndham Vacation Management on Nov. 3. At that point, the association and the company were at an impasse over the 2008 budget, which Wyndham officials tried to increase to about $4 million from $2.5 million. He said a committee of board members was able to trim it back to the $2.5 million and stay on target.

He said the board also found the association had been billed for expenses that occurred in the north tower, which has a separate association. In the north tower, there are 60 units owned by individuals and 222 in Wyndham's time-share program.

The suit also alleged that while the north tower has more time-share units, Wyndham managers charged 80 percent of the water bill to the south tower. Also, the suit alleged, management spent more than $400,000 of the association's funds for time-share unit recreational activities.

Other payments cited by the board included $3,139 for remodeling the third floor common area used by Wyndham to market its time-share units; $2,276 for gift baskets for the time-share units; and $1,192 spent for the spa salon signage, according to the lawsuit.

http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Business/Headlines/bizBIZ02121008.htm


Linkback - Time-share company, condo square off in court
]]> 12/11/2008 6:57:31 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5116 5116
The operator could be required to pay airlines rebates of as much as seven per cent of the amount they were charged if it is determined that they provided poor service, according to a proposal by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The proposal is part of a price control scheme that the CAA is developing for Stansted. According to the authority, the proposal is designed to encourage the development of competition among airports in southeast England, and airport development that occurs at the right place and right time for the benefit of airline passengers.

The CAA has indicated that the price caps it is proposing for Stansted are lower than what the Competition Commission has recommended, in order “to reflect an adjustment to take account of airport charge revenues from cargo and other non-passenger flights.”

According to the CAA, the price caps would “ensure that both Stansted and other competing airports can take forward efficient plans for expansion to meet demand from passengers and that competition in the airport market is encouraged.”

The group director for economic regulation, Harry Bush, said: “Our proposed price controls protect passengers and airlines whilst maintaining good levels of service. They also look to the long-term potential expansion of airports.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/baa-faces-poor-service-penalties-at-stansted-5633968.html


Linkback - BAA faces poor service penalties at Stansted
]]> 12/11/2008 6:56:03 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5115 5115
The recent attack on Oceania Cruises’ deluxe ship Nautica in the Gulf of Aden has led to heightened concerns about cruise passenger safety in the area.

The managing director of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Sebastian Ahrens, made an official statement, which read in part: “Our passenger’s safety is our highest priority. As long as the situation is uncertain in the area, and as long [as] German authorities have a travel warning issued, we will not cruise through the Gulf of Aden with passengers onboard.”

Passengers will debark the cruise ship at an undisclosed location, which is likely to be in Yemen – as this is the final port of call before entering the Gulf of Aden. They will then be flown to Dubai, where they will be put up in a five-star hotel.

The flight and accommodation will be provided to passengers at no additional charge. Those passengers who booked on the first 19 days only, which ends in Dubai, can continue with their travel plans from Dubai.

Passengers booked on the full world cruise will board the Columbus once again in Oman.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/german-cruise-line-passengers-to-debark-to-avoid-piracy-5633964.html


Linkback - Cruise line passengers to debark to avoid pirarcy
]]> 12/11/2008 6:54:58 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5114 5114 Guess what it is:



5 points for a correct answer

Answer to be revealed late on 14th Dec, so get guessing NOW!




Linkback - Guess what it is - a lot late...
]]> 12/10/2008 10:33:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5113 5113
Linkback - DIAMOND RESORTS (25 )FREE POINTS
]]> 12/10/2008 8:16:03 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5112 5112
The hotel is near all facilities with shops, bus terminal, promenade, restaurants and cafes all within easy reach. There is a tour office across the road to access trips to all the major tourist spots on the island and the prices are very reasonable. The hotel is approximately 30 minutes taxi ride from the airport and at this time cost 18 Euros per journey. The staff are very welcoming and speak English fluently. Ed Note: There are strong historical ties between Malta and the UK and English is spoken by most of the population
There are four lifts to all floors and there is a bar and cafe at the front of the hotel for lunches and snacks.

We have visited our apartment in November for the last 4 years and found that the temperature at that time was a very comfortable 70-73 degrees F. There are lots of historical places to visit all over the island and also the islands of Gozo and Comino are both worth a visit.

The hotel is owned by the Accor group and is superbly maintained and I don't think I have stayed anywhere better for cleanliness, staff service and furnishings, it is a four star hotel but competes with any 5 star easily.

Malta is a friendly island and the population give you a good welcome and most speak English as a second language, crime is very rare in Malta and you feel safe even in the evening if you want to walk off your evening meal, The Hotel is in a quiet area and after 11-30 pm you can actually go to bed and not be afraid of being woken up by late revellers.

A new website has just been created at www.csamalta.com and facilities are being expanded to other parts of the the holiday market echanging worldwide.
we visited Nov 2008 and are both over 65 years of age, the resort is situated on Touristi street Buggiba St Pauls Bay Malta. it is in the RCI Brochure code no 6682 check in Tuesdays and Saturdays

Linkback - Costa San Antonio Resort MALTA
]]> 12/10/2008 6:43:44 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5111 5111
Linkback - POINTS TO GIVE AWAY
]]> 12/10/2008 6:42:17 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5110 5110
Some of you will have read that I am tryng to sell or give away our
points, without success.

Well, beng on leave today, I eventually tried phoning DRI rather than
trying to contact them via their' your query has been recieved' e-mail.

I spoke to a real life person on the 'owner operations' line. I
explained our circumstances. Her response to me was that we should
not pay our fees. I said I did not want to become a 'bad debtor', she
replied that I would not, and that after 18 months or so the company
woud just 'leave it'.

If i thought for one moment that this was true, it would be what we
would do. I dont, however, and i just want this to be documented
SOMEWHERE. I do have the full name of the person to whom I spoke, but
no proof of what she said to me. I'm recording it here, to be refuted
if untrue, before i take any other action.

Hx





Linkback - points
]]> 12/10/2008 4:57:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5109 5109
I have 11,000 Diamond Resort points for sale for 2009 and then 13,000 from 2010 onwards.

Management fee for 2009 has not been paid.

Any offer considered.

NB Have been a member for many years, personal circumstances forcing sale.

Kestrel


[:)]


Linkback - DRI points for sale
]]> 12/10/2008 11:46:56 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5108 5108
Sorry tale of woe here. My father owns two timeshares in Lanzarote, he has recently been approached by Realescape and Planet Vacations. Both promising him they had 'buyers' for his timeshare. Usual pitch buyer with a 30% deposit etc. My father has, unfortunately parted with 1,200 Euros with Realescape and a further 2,396 Euro's with Planet Vacations. The Realescape payment was made in July by debit card. The Planet Vacations payment was in September via Credit Card.

What makes matters even worse is that he has sent the Title deeds via recorded delivery to Planet Vacations!

I would really appreciate some advise as o how to take this further and re-coup monies paid and get the title deeds returned.

HELP![:(!]

Linkback - Realescape & Planet Vacations
]]> 12/9/2008 9:44:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5107 5107
Linkback - Timpramar
]]> 12/9/2008 6:59:17 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5106 5106
Wyndham said it expects to reduce gross vacation ownership interest sales in 2009 to $1.2 billion from expected gross sales of $2 billion in 2008 by eliminating sales offices and marketing programs.

"Unfortunately, it has a relatively large impact on individuals, which is the terrible thing -- I would say it's around 4,000 people," said Stephen Holmes, Wyndham Worldwide chief executive in an interview.

Wyndham said it now expects 2009 revenue of between $3.7 billion and $4.1 billion, down from a previous forecast of between $4.1 billion and $4.5 billion.

"For the last couple of decades we have taken the receivables generated when we sell timeshare ... to the market and we borrow money against them," said Holmes.

"Now, in this current credit environment, that market has dried up," Holmes added.
Wyndham expects to take a charge of between $50 million and $60 million in the fourth quarter of 2008 and $10 million to $15 million in the first quarter of 2009 related to these initiatives.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/8133094


Linkback - Wyndham to cut 4,000 jobs as it shrinks timeshare
]]> 12/9/2008 5:57:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5105 5105
The "slot auction" plan, which was strenuously opposed by airlines and many Democratic lawmakers, was designed as a free-market experiment for curbing the problem of chronic flight delays at the New York area's three crowded airports -- LaGuardia, Kennedy and Newark. Airlines would have been forced to surrender up to 10% of their takeoff and landing slots over the next five years. The slots would then be auctioned off.

The Transportation Department reasoned that the auctions were a better way to allocate a scarce resource and encourage airlines to operate larger jets at New York airports. Department officials hoped to proceed with the first auction next month. As recently as Friday, airline executives were meeting with government officials and the firms that were to conduct the auctions to prepare for the possibility they might take place, even as their attorneys were challenging the validity of the plans in court.

Airlines and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates the three airports, argued that the plan was illegal and would only raise costs for airline passengers.

A three-judge panel on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia on Monday afternoon granted a stay in the auction case. In a terse ruling, the judges said the Port Authority's lawyers had "satisfied the stringent standards required for a stay pending court review."

In a statement, the Port Authority said it "applauds today's decision halting the Bush Administration's 11th-hour plan to auction existing landing and take-off slots at the New York metropolitan airports to the highest bidder, which would invariably drive up ticket prices for passengers for the same service without alleviating delays. We are confident that upon full review, the court will agree that the Administration does not have the authority to conduct an auction, and we look forward to working with the next Administration to develop real, long-term solutions to improve air travel."

James May, president of the Washington-based Air Transport Association, said the ruling "puts a firm halt to the Department of Transportation's ill-advised, illogical auction scheme."

The Department of Transportation put out the following statement on the court's decision: "Today's court decision is bad news for travelers seeking a better flying experience in and out of the New York region. We are committed to our goal of protecting travelers, giving passengers more options and improving the air travel experience, and will continue to assess our options to provide relief for flyers."

Administration officials have tried other ways to reduce congestion in New York, such as capping the number of flights allowed per hour and redesigning flight paths to enhance airspace efficiency.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122877719522189421.html?mod=googlenews_wsj


Linkback - Court Blocks Plan to Auction Landing Slots at NY
]]> 12/9/2008 5:56:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5104 5104
“This distinction is a clear confirmation of both the high regard in which Kuoni is held and the correctness of our present corporate course,” said Max E. Katz, Kuoni CFO and speaker of the group’s executive board. “With its modern and global brand-based business alignment and its new product lines, Kuoni has shown a fine appreciation of today’s market needs and is leading the way to a new travel culture.”

In 1993, the annual World Travel Awards were established to honour the best operators in global travel and tourism. Today, the results are based on the votes of nearly 167,000 specialists in the industry. The 2008 ceremony was held on 2 December on the Turks & Caicos in the Caribbean.

Kuoni UK was the recipient of numerous other trade and consumer awards in 2008 as well at the World Travel Award. It was voted ‘Britain’s favourite’ by the readers of The Daily Mail, The Daily Telegraph’s Ultratravel Magazine and The Sunday Times Travel Magazine.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/kuoni-best-global-tour-operator-for-tenth-year-5633956.html


Linkback - Kuoni best global tour operator for tenth year
]]> 12/9/2008 5:55:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5103 5103
Linkback - avantgarde management
]]> 12/7/2008 7:44:52 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5102 5102
Linkback - anu holidays\-extratime online
]]> 12/7/2008 2:53:43 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5101 5101
Holiday Inn Club Vacations will launch in December 2008 with Orange Lake's flagship 2,412 villa property in Orlando, Florida. This marks IHG's first move into the timeshare market, one of the fastest growing segments of the U.S. holiday and vacation industry. [Source: American Resort Development Association (ARDA)]

The conversion of the remaining Orange Lake resorts in Ascutney, Vermont (60 villas), Lake Geneva, Wisconsin (68 villas) and Panama City, Florida (18 villas) are scheduled to follow shortly after.

This alliance is unique in that it allows IHG to enter the timeshare industry, purely through an exclusive licensing and marketing agreement. Orange Lake will continue to own, operate and develop these timeshare resorts as a privately held company.

"This deal reinforces the strength of the Holiday Inn brand as we are able to move into the timeshare market with a good partner who knows the business well," said Andy Cosslett, chief executive officer, IHG. "We believe that timeshare is a natural progression for Holiday Inn due to our scale and customer base in North America. This comes at a time when the $1 billion global relaunch of Holiday Inn is progressing well. This agreement fits well with our business model as we are able to introduce the Holiday Inn brand to a new set of customers without the need for capital investment. With both companies focused on growth the alliance brings with it the opportunity to expand into major North American destinations."

Orange Lake is situated on over 1,400 acres with 2,412 villas, adjacently located to the new north entrance of Walt Disney World(R) Resort. The flagship resort has over 25 years of proven success in Orlando, the number one leisure destination for U.S. travelers. It offers a host of amenities including:

4 championship golf courses
7 swimming pools including a 12-acre outdoor entertainment complex
80 acre lake for water sports
Five restaurants
Retail and pro shops

"This is a great opportunity for our two companies because we share the same heritage and founder, Kemmons Wilson," said Don Harrill, president and chief executive officer for The Family of Orange Lake Resorts. "It was Kemmons' vision that changed the landscape for family vacations through his creation of the Holiday Inn hotel brand in 1952. With the re-launch of Holiday Inn and the continued growth of our company, we are prepared to reach new heights for our customers -- and together write the next exciting chapter in our history. We believe this alliance will set the new standard by re-defining 'quality time' for families and for the timeshare industry today."
The marketing and licensing agreement also includes:

The construction of a flagship Holiday Inn Resort hotel on the Orange Lake site in Orlando
The marketing and rental of available timeshare villas through IHG's extensive reservation system and distribution channels, including Priority Club(R) Rewards, the world's largest hotel loyalty program with over 39 million members

Participation in the Priority Club Rewards program including earning of Priority Club points on rentals with qualified rates and redemption for room nights

The formation of the Holiday Inn Club(TM) exchange program which will allow members of Holiday Inn Club Vacations to exchange timeshare weeks for hotel nights at over 4,000 hotels in the IHG family of brands.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20081204257/Latest/IHG-Create-New-Timeshare-Brand.html


Linkback - IHG Create New Timeshare Brand
]]> 12/7/2008 8:15:37 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5100 5100
Nearly 170,000 professionals in the travel industry, from countries around the world voted in the awards, which were awarded at a ceremony held at the Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort and Spa in the Caribbean. More than 110,000 travel agents were represented in the voting.

This major international accolade follows just months after the airline, based in Abu Dhabi, was awarded regional ‘leading first class’ airline at October’s Middle East World Travel Awards.

Etihad’s chief executive, James Hogan, said: “To be voted the world’s best by nearly 170,000 travel professionals from around the globe is a great honour and testament to the investment we continue to place in our flagship first class product.”

He added: “WTA adjudged our first class to be the best in the Middle East in October, so to receive the top global award now rounds off a fantastic year for us.”

On Etihad Airways, first class passengers are provided with the carrier’s award-winning fully-flat bed seat that has an 80in seat pitch, and is self-contained in its own privacy ‘cocoon,’ equipped with mood lighting that is designed to help relieve jet lag.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/etihad-wins-leading-first-class-airline-award-5633952.html


Linkback - Etihad wins leading first class airline award
]]> 12/7/2008 8:12:11 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5099 5099
This weekend, flights at both Bangkok’s major airports are set to resume, at the start of the country’s peak holiday season, but at this time the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is advising Britons to stay away.

Protestors have left Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports, and ended their siege of Government House, but an ongoing threat of political unrest remains, which has prompted the FCO to urge Britons to avoid the Bangkok airports unless their travel is essential.

The latest advice on the Foreign Office website states: “… given the protestors’ continuing threat of disruption to the airports and transport network, we advise that you continue to avoid air travel into or through Bangkok for the foreseeable future.”

It is expected, however, that major airlines, including British Airways, will resume service to Bangkok over the next few days, and passengers are likely to see normal booking conditions.

What this means is that if customers book non-refundable tickets to Bangkok, they are no eligible for a reimbursement if they cancel.

A BA spokesman could not confirm booking conditions, but did say that if service returned to normal, it would be expected that booking conditions would also return to normal.

The spokesman stressed: “There is no talk of not flying to Bangkok on the basis of the current Foreign Office advice. As far as BA is concerned there is no security issue.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/foreign-office-warns-against-air-travel-to-bangkok-5633950.html


Linkback - Foreign Office warns against air travel to Bangkok
]]> 12/7/2008 8:10:36 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5098 5098 Hi Folks
I have just read the letter from DRI which arrived with my invoice for management fees and would suggest that all members read it carefully.

Under new rules members are "prevented from owning or controlling a website with content pertaining to THE ClubSM resorts , the Managing Company or any member of the DRI group without the express permission of the Managing Company" It does not make clear if this new rule will be retrospective.

In a major change to the sale of points between members since September 1st 2008 any points sold between individual members may not be used to participate in any of the additional benefits or services provided by THE ClubSM this means that those points cannot be used for member benefits such as discounts on management fees,travel ,flights,cruises,etc.Nor can such points be used for reservations at any other resort in the Diamond Resort International portfolio other than those within the European Collection. In this case they have said that this provision does not apply to any points purchased from another member prior to 1st September 2008.

As far as I know these substancial changes have been made without the consent or participation of the individual members of the club. The result of these changes will be to reduce the opportunity for members to freely discuss the club on any website owned by a member and the changes to the sale of points will make it even more difficult than it is now to sell points. It of course will help DRI sell additional points to members as those purchased privately between members will be of very limited use.

I suggest that members may wish to write objecting to these changes as they are unfair and discriminate between existing members and those who have sold prior to 1st September 2008. They also seek to impose restrictions on individuals members rights to freedom of expression by preventing members from owning a website which has content about the DRI Group without the companys permission.

The letter is not signed by an individual but simply says Yours sincerely Diamond Resorts Management Ltd.

There are other important changes which members may wish to comment on.I would point out that the letter is a summary of the changes which can be viewed on the DRI website.

Regards
Chris





Linkback - Amendments to the European Collection Rules
]]> 12/6/2008 8:15:38 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5097 5097
Linkback - Resigning from R.C.I
]]> 12/4/2008 11:09:18 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5096 5096
Linkback - Selling My TImeshare
]]> 12/4/2008 11:00:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5095 5095
The two largest tour operators in Britain have said that they are making significant cuts based on a drop in package holiday demand.

Both operators are talking about reductions over the next two years amounting to between 20 and 27 per cent, which could well lead to summer holiday breaks being more expensive for the UK consumer.

TUI has revealed that the cuts will make it possible for prices increases of as much as 10 per cent for 2009.

The Thomson and First Choice merger into TUI Travel, and the Thomas Cook takeover of MyTravel, have made it possible for the two companies to relax their fight for market share and focus on profitability instead.

Holiday company failures, such as the collapse of XL earlier in the year, have helped reduce market capacity already.

“Holidays are getting more expensive, and this trend is likely to continue,” said an Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) spokesman.

“Whereas travel companies once offered as many deals as possible, their strategy now involves selling fewer holidays and higher profit margins.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/tour-operator-capacity-cuts-likely-to-raise-prices-5633947.html


Linkback - Tour operator capacity cuts likely to raise prices
]]> 12/4/2008 5:32:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5094 5094
The deal, which goes into effect Jan. 1, means RCI will become the exclusive exchange provider for Disney Vacation Club members, which allows them to use their DVC "points" to rent rooms at non-Disney resorts around the world. At the same time, RCI's more than 3.6 million members will now be able to trade into DVC timeshares.

Disney had previously contracted with RCI competitor Interval International of Miami. A Disney spokeswoman said Disney will no longer work with Interval once the RCI contract kicks in.

In a statement, Disney's Celebration-based time-share division says the pact with RCI, a subsidiary of Wyndham Worldwide Corp., will provide members with "a significantly broader range of resort experiences," including access to destinations across six continents and 25 countries.

"Group RCI has the management depth, technology resources and global marketing infrastructure to align with Disney Vacation Club’s strategic growth plan,” Disney Vacation Club President Jim Lewis said in the statement. “This relationship will provide our member families with the most diverse experiences possible beyond our signature Disney Vacation Club resorts.”

The moves comes with Disney Vacation Club working to lure new buyers by convincing them that it offers more than access to Disney's own resorts and theme parks. The company has made the exchange feature the centerpiece of a television-advertising campaign it launched earlier this year.

http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/business_tourism_aviation/2008/12/disney-vacation.html


Linkback - Disney Vacation Club signs pact with RCI
]]> 12/4/2008 5:31:16 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5093 5093
The Austrian government as soon as Friday could approve the deal, which values the national carrier at as much as €377.4 million ($479.5 million) and aims to save it from collapse under mounting financial woes. A deal would require regulatory approval, in part because the Austrian government plans to spend €500 million helping to restructure the airline.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122834410051377213.html?mod=googlenews_wsj


Linkback - Lufthansa Set to Buy Struggling Austrian Airlines
]]> 12/4/2008 5:30:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5092 5092 I have two weeks for sale,weeks 21&22 in a two bed two bath appartment.
The Maintenance charges for 2009 are £373 p.w.

I am willing to accept any realistic offer ,either for both or on their own.

Please e-mail me lowean@gmail.com.

Thanks

Andy

Linkback - CLUB DELTA MAR TWO WEEKS FOR SALE
]]> 12/3/2008 4:58:33 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5091 5091 my question is have i been stupid and naieve spending this amount or was this deal ok.

Linkback - advice please
]]> 12/3/2008 3:32:22 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5090 5090 Check out our website for more info at
www.valencia-property.com. Also
we have all the news about the Formula
One and a couple of great articles about
Valencia and its gearing up for
the event on our blog site at
www.valenciacomment.blogspot.
So have a look get in touch and ask
about the bargains to be had around
Valencia now, info@valencia-property.com.


Linkback - Valencia Property SL
]]> 12/3/2008 1:33:15 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5089 5089
Linkback - Alvita Holidays
]]> 12/3/2008 12:46:47 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5088 5088
I personally will continue my boycott of "Terry's Chocolate Oranges".

It may sound a little petty to most but I was absolutely disgusted when on Friday 30 September 2005 the iconic Terry's York factory with its huge clock tower, emptied for good.

Kraft Foods, who own the brand, closed the factory and moved production to facilities in Sweden, Belgium, Poland and Slovakia.

They have traditionally targeted Christmas as their main sales period, and we used to buy them for the kids as stocking fillers, but not since then.

Call it an act of solidarity with the former workers in York if you will; but far too often have major companies moved production away from the UK to take advantage of cheap labour elsewhere.

The best way to affect decisions such as these is to withdraw your business from them in protest.

The impact of our decision to no longer buy these might be small but if everyone did it and the company knew why - it might make others think again before making such decisions simply for the sake of "More profit".



Linkback - Christmas boycotts..
]]> 12/2/2008 10:50:39 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5087 5087
Donn Edwards was phoned by a telemarketer last year and told that he had won a car. All he would have to do to claim his prize, he was told, was attend a prize-giving ceremony in Midrand, north of Johannesburg.

When he and his wife arrived at the venue, they discovered that the prize-giving ceremony was a QVC marketing presentation at which he and his wife, and the other "guests", were told to choose a key, after the airing of a video, to determine if he had won the car. He had not.

'Now that their secret is out on the web'

Edwards wrote about his experience, and his unhappiness about being misled, on his blog. He said that the telemarketers - who contacted him again six weeks later with an invitation to attend another prize-giving presentation, despite his name being placed on a list of people not to be called - had emphatically denied that they were marketing or selling any form of timeshare.

He also alleged that QVC and the company it had employed to market its product had violated the Timeshare Institute of Southern Africa's code of conduct by not clearly stating in their fax to his wife that the presentation they were to attend as competition finalists was for any other purpose; that none of the gifts or prizes, or the names of previous winners, were on display at the venue as required by the code; and that the telesales person had not made it clear that the purpose of the contact was to sell timeshare.

He concluded in his blog of September last year that "QVC has deliberately and knowingly set up a business venture with MargetMagix in order to flout or bypass the letter and spirit of the code of conduct, and they clearly think they can do so with impunity".

The blog led to QVC management and Edwards agreeing to a meeting to sort out the problem, but the meeting failed to materialise because of a disagreement over the venue.

Edwards' blog entries continued, with him calling QVC "a scam" and stating that the company's marketing "is clearly misleading and full of lies".

'They're trying to bully me into keeping quiet'
In October last year he criticised Executive Listings for trying to lure him to a similar presentation while denying that it had anything to do with timeshare sales.

In June this year, he detailed "QVC's carefully crafted deception", warning internet users again about the "marketing pitch" aimed at getting people to invest in the holiday timeshare industry.

Earlier this month, QVC, and Paul Edkins and Ian Wilcox, who are trustees of the Quality Vacation Club Trust, and Quality Time Marketing (Pty) Ltd, served summons on Edwards. In the court document listing the particulars of their claim, they argue that Edwards' statements were made "with the intention of defaming the plaintiffs and to injure their reputation".

Each of the plaintiffs had suffered a loss of reputation, and QVC and the trust had suffered patrimonial losses. An addendum to the papers stated that the applicants were claiming a total of R461 500, including legal costs calculated to date.

In the document handed to the court, the applicants asked the Johannesburg high court to interdict Edwards from publishing any defamatory material that would further harm their reputation, and wanted the court to grant payment of R1,525 million in favour of QVC, R100 000 in favour of the two trustees and R154 000 in favour of the trust.

Dave Feldman, QVC's lawyer, confirmed that the amount being sought in damages was R461 500.

"As far as anything else is concerned the matter is sub judice so no comment," his office said.

Edwards filed notice of his intention to defend the action on Wednesday. Speaking to The Sunday Independent this week, Edwards said his concern was that, if the company won its case against him, all bloggers in South Africa would be at the mercy of corporations and institutions that wanted to shut them up.

Edwards, who is defending himself in this case, said all he was doing was expressing a "robust opinion" about a product and something that had happened to him.

"This happens to dozens of people every day, and now that their secret is out on the web they're trying to bully me into keeping quiet," he said.

"They insist that I spend money hiring lawyers who then have to hire an advocate to act on my behalf in the high court. I cannot afford that. This matter is affecting my ability to earn a living and to focus on my job."

He appealed to others who had had similar problems to contact him.

Pamela Stein, a partner at legal firm Webber Wentzel Bowens, said the blogger would be able to defend his actions on the basis of fair comment.

"The right of fair comment, along with truth for the public benefit, is one of the fundamental rights of free speech," said Stein.

"I have no doubt that commentary that is in the consumer's interests is in the public interest."

http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=15&art_id=vn20081130104012176C255204


Linkback - Man sued for blogging - timeshare scam
]]> 12/2/2008 8:53:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5086 5086
The talks come even as BA continues merger talks with Spain's Iberia Lineas Aereas de Espana SA (IBLA.MC), and as airlines around the world look to consolidate to cut costs in the face of a sharp downturn in the industry.

The U.K. flag carrier said it is exploring a merger of equals with Qantas that would create two legal entities with a listings in London and Sydney. Both companies said talks could fail to yield a deal.

BA's shares closed up 17 pence, or 12.5%, at 157 pence, giving the company a market capitalization of about GBP1.7 billion, about the same as that of Qantas. The combined company would have a market capitalization of about GBP3.5 billion, according to a Dow Jones Newswires calculation.

BA said it was approached by Qantas, and it has been talking since August about a merger of equals.

Any deal with Qantas will have to overcome Australian and European Union airline ownership laws. The Australian rules say a foreign carrier can't own more than 35% of an Australian airline and total foreign holdings can't exceed 49%. E.U. rules cap non-E.U. ownership of carriers at 49%.

The Australian government earlier Tuesday said it will consider removing the 35% cap, although it will maintain the legal requirement for majority Australian ownership of the country's international airlines, including Qantas.

BA has attempted an equity tie-up with Qantas before - in 1993 it bought a 25% stake in Qantas as it tried to gain a presence on the competitive London to Australia route. It sold the stake in 2004 for a significant profit.

BA said a deal with Qantas shouldn't hamper its talks with Iberia, which started in July. Those talks are moving slowly, BA Chief Executive Willie Walsh said recently, in part because BA's pension deficit has ballooned this fall as the value of the pension fund's equity holding has plunged.

An Iberia spokesman declined to comment.

BA in August filed for antitrust immunity for a tie-up with AMR Corp.'s (AMR) American Airlines and Iberia. All the airlines, and Qantas, are members of the oneworld alliance.

An American Airlines spokesman told Dow Jones Newswires that BA's talks with Qantas would have no bearing on the antitrust immunity application.

The latest merger talks come as airlines around the world, but particularly in Europe, seek to merge to build scale and create synergies that will significantly cut costs. The industry has seen losses mount this year as it was battered first by record high oil prices and then by shrinking passenger numbers as the economic downturn took hold.

The tough climate has seen more than 30 carriers go out of business so far this year. Monday, budget airline Ryanair Holdings PLC (RYA.DB) launched a EUR748 million bid for Irish rival Aer Lingus PLC (EIL1.DB) while Germany's Deutsche Lufthansa AG (LHA.XE) is negotiating or finalizing the acquisition of three smaller European carriers. Italy's government is overseeing the merger of a streamlined Alitalia SpA (AZA.MI) with domestic rival AirOne, and at the same time Alitalia is courting both Lufthansa and Air France-KLM (3112.FR).

Analysts say a tie-up of BA and Qantas would make sense because the two airlines have few overlapping operations and would be able to garner synergies on the so-called Kangaroo route between the U.K. and Australia. They currently operate six flights daily on the route.

A merger would create a giant. Currently, Qantas operates 224 aircraft to 85 destinations and employs about 37,000 people. BA has 250 aircraft in its fleet, and serves 154 destinations. It employees approximately 42,000 people. Combined annual revenues would be over GBP15 billion according to Dow Jones Newswires calculations.

http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/djf500/200812021159DOWJONESDJONLINE000472_FORTUNE5.htm


Linkback - BA Now In Merger Talks With Qantas Airways
]]> 12/2/2008 8:46:43 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5085 5085
The second-biggest travel company in Europe is saying that its pre-tax profits for the year ended 30 September increased by 32 per cent over the previous year, up to 309.3 million pounds, citing increased revenues and improved operating margins.

It added that current trading is meeting expectations as are winter bookings, with prices up in most categories.

The group was created in 2007 by the merger of the Arcandor travel unit and MyTravel. It is increasing its merger synergy target by 2010 to 215 million pounds, up from the previous target of 155 million.

The travel operator said that the integration of the businesses has been successful, and that commercial, management and technology have been integrated into a single platform for more than a year.

Twenty-four per cent of its UK capacity for next summer has already been sold, which is in line with the level achieved last year.

The company is projecting an operating profit of 480 million pounds for the 2009-2010 year.

For the year ended 30 September, Thomas Cook has said that it will pay a dividend of 6.5 pence per share, meaning a total payout for the year of 9.75 pence, which is an increase of 95 per cent over the previous year.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/thomas-cook-reports-rise-in-profits-5633937.html


Linkback - Thomas Cook reports rise in profits
]]> 12/2/2008 8:43:54 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5084 5084
due to loss of job i can no longer afford the holidays and need to give them away diamond resorts wouldnt let me surrender them (need to be bankrupt)so am offering here fees are paid up to date and theres 8000 points banked (not been able to use )you can have for free but need fees to be paid if intrested please email or pm thanks
gary

Linkback - need to give away 4000 points
]]> 12/2/2008 6:29:50 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5083 5083 OMG it makes my blood boil that innocent people might hand over their card dealers to these sharks. BEWARE

Linkback - SECURE LEISURE
]]> 12/2/2008 6:23:07 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5082 5082 I dont mean total fees will be cheaper.

Linkback - maintenance fee payment
]]> 12/1/2008 9:02:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5081 5081
The two resorts are both located in the Zlatibor mountain region in western Serbia, at the crossroads of Central Europe. Zlatibor is renowned for its clear mountain air, spas, excellent skiing, and a myriad of outdoor pursuits including trekking, cycling and fishing among lakes, rivers, lush pastures and pine forests. The region is said to have proven restorative qualities and has established itself as a popular health and wellbeing holiday destination. The country’s rich historical, architectural and cultural heritage is also an irresistible tourist attraction, together with the city sights of Belgrade and Novi Sad.

In welcoming the two new Serbian resorts to the RCI exchange network, Jonathan Back, managing director, Group RCI EMEAI, said: “We want our nearly four million members worldwide to have the opportunity to vacation in Serbia and are pleased to have two first-class resorts as our first affiliates in this fabulous new destination. The country is accessed by three international airports making it easily accessible for international tourists. This, together with its close proximity to many highly-promoted European holiday destinations, makes us confident Serbia is poised to see rapid growth in its inbound and outbound visitor levels making it a good place to be for timeshare.”

RCI members can now choose from two attractive resorts in this diverse and vibrant country. Club Satelit offers the intimacy of a smaller development comprising 12 one-bedroom units and eight studio apartments, together with a restaurant, indoor pool and fitness centre. The apartments are light, airy and fitted with every home comfort which characterises timeshare accommodation. The names behind this resort are Canadian national, Gilles Durand, developer of RCI-affiliated Club Villas Jazmin in the Caribbean, and Srdan Vasic, who also owns Closer Marketing Club based in Belgrade. Vasic said: “Club Satelit has an air of exclusivity that’s right for this area which attracts upscale visitors to its excellent ski slopes and spas. We plan to extend the property on neighbouring land and are considering a five-star offering.”

On the central Zlatibor plateau in a lakeside location sits Kraljevi Konaci resort or ‘the King’s shelters’ as the name translates. This property is designed to blend with the line of the surrounding pine forests and offers exceptionally spacious accommodation in the form of 110-square metre two-storey villas with garage and garden. This property was the vision of Ratko Jeremic, who travelled the world working on resort construction projects which inspired him to bring the best of all he’d seen back to his homeland in his own resort. This resort has been 17 years in building and the completed phase one comprises 107 villas and a restaurant. The second phase will add a hotel, more villas, a spa centre, and a 600-seat conference and commercial centre, all coming in at a total cost of approximately €50 million. Jeremic said: “We find high demand among Serbians and the British. Serbia’s economy has now stabilised and is growing. We have been operating for several years without an exchange network but now affiliating to RCI is important for us to allow our prosperous Serbian owners the opportunity to start experiencing holidays in other countries. Timeshare is new to Serbia and it’s very exciting to be able to introduce a new quality product to this market.”

http://www.homesgofast.com/view_news/1088/


Linkback - New Resorts in Serbia Available for Exchanges
]]> 12/1/2008 6:23:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5080 5080
MAS is sending three flights to U-Tapao airport for passengers unable to reach the Suvarnabhumi Inter–national Airport.

It is seeking clearance to operate a fourth flight late in the evening.

In addition to the flights, the national carrier is operating two flights out of Phuket.


The departures from U-Tapao are scheduled according to the original times out of Suvarnabhumi but may be revised if there is congestion.

MAS is working closely with Thai authorities to minimise inconvenience to passengers at U-Tapao.

They are advised to check with MAS Airlines 24-hour Call Centre at 1 300 88 3000 in Malaysia and +662-263 0572 or +662-134 3184 in Bangkok; and the Phuket office is +667-213 749, +667-621 6675 and +667-623 4467 from 8.30am to 9.00pm for similar updates.

Meanwhile, AirAsia said the air-line would be mounting its third rescue flight from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok.

Passengers are advised to contact AirAsia’s 24-hour emergency hotlines at +662-515 9999 in Bangkok or +603-8660 4554 in Malaysia for any changes.

Passengers flying from Kuala Lumpur to U-Tapao will be transported by bus to central Bangkok free of charge.

In the meantime, guests flying back to Kuala Lumpur will be provided complimentary bus pick-up to U-Tapao from the Novotel Bangna Bangkok.

Due to limited facilities at U-Tapao, AirAsia advises customers to assemble at the Novotel Bangna Bang–kok at 10.00 am Thai time for check-in.

“Please do not proceed directly to U-Tapao as its limited facility does not allow us to perform check-in for our guests there,” said AirAsia in a statement.

Guests will be accepted on the flight subject to availability of seats. AirAsia operates on Airbus A320 that can seat 180 guests. Visit the airline’s website AirAsia.com for the latest updates.

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/11/30/nation/2683729&sec=nation


Linkback - Airlines to help stranded passengers in Thailand
]]> 12/1/2008 6:22:31 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5079 5079
POLICE want to grill a British timeshare salesman in connection with the mystery disappearance of a Spanish teenager eight years ago.

Detectives want to interview Robbie Graham about his whereabouts when Maria Teresa Fernandez, 18, went missing in 2000.

Fernandez was last seen at a bus stop in the port city of Motril on August 18.
Now, police want to quiz Graham about his movements between 21.30 and 21.45 on the evening in question.

According to Olive Press sources, Graham was living nearby in Nerja and had been seen in Motril that day.

Graham was accused of being involved in the murders of teenagers Rocio Wanninkhof in 1999 and Sonia Carabantes in 2003.

He got off on a technicality, while his former employee and best friend Tony King - aka The Costa Killer - was found guilty of murder. He is currently in prison in Granada.

King however, has since accused him of murdering Maria Teresa - and as the Olive Press revealed in July - King has been helping detectives with the case.

Murdered
The parents of Maria Teresa have long maintained their daughter was murdered and believe Graham - a former associate of British killer Tony King - is to blame.
Since the beginning of November, detectives from the Policia Nacional have questioned known acquaintances of Graham on the Costa del Sol in a bid to trace the ex-timeshare salesman.

Graham worked for a timeshare deck Lubina Sol, in Riviera del Sol, also intriguingly where teenager Amy Fitzpatrick went missing on New Year’s Day this year.

Police now believe he is in the United Kingdom (the Olive Press understands he is in Brighton) and want Interpol to join the hunt for him.

In 2006, King - who is serving a double life sentence for the murders of teenagers Rocio Wanninkhof and Sonia Carabantes - told police that Maria Teresa had been murdered by Graham.

http://www.theolivepress.es/2008/12/01/new-manhunt-launched-for-timeshare-tout/


Linkback - New manhunt launched for timeshare tout
]]> 12/1/2008 6:20:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5078 5078 somebody know this club vacation "Jambo Vacation Club" by www.sagittario.it

today they call me about my timeshare week because I'm unsatisfied about my timeshare and they suggest me to exchange my week with their program. i sheduled a meeting with they to explain me all about "Jambo Vacation Club".
do you know it, wath do you think about?

Linkback - info about Jambo Vacation Club
]]> 12/1/2008 5:07:31 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5077 5077


5 points for a correct answer

Answer to be revealed 7th December unless correctly guessed beforehand.



Linkback - Guess what it is - 30 November
]]> 11/30/2008 9:40:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5076 5076
Linkback - maintenance
]]> 11/29/2008 9:30:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5075 5075
The Associated Press obtained an internal memo indicating the FBI received “plausible but unsubstantiated” reports that al-Qaida terrorists may have had discussion about attacking the city’s subway system.

It was reported that the internal bulletin said al-Qaida terrorists “in late September may have discussed targeting transit systems in and around New York City. These discussions reportedly involved the use of suicide bombers or explosives placed on subway/passenger rail systems.”

“We have no specific details to confirm that this plot has developed beyond aspirational planning, but we are issuing this warning out of concern that such an attack could possibly be conducted during the forthcoming holiday season,” noted the warning that was issued by the government on Tuesday.

A person who had been briefed on the threat spoke to the AP on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of intelligence gathering. He said that the threat may also involve all of the passenger rail lines that run through New York, including Amtrak and the Long Island Railroad – both of which are typically very busy over the Thanksgiving holiday.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/security-increased-in-ny-subways-on-holiday-terror-threat-5633925.html


Linkback - Security increased in NY subways- terror threat
]]> 11/29/2008 6:10:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5074 5074
The timeshare resort company (NYSE: BXG) has informed officials with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development that it is closing offices in Sun Prairie, Baraboo and Wisconsin Dells and substantially reducing staff at a fourth sales office at its Christmas Mountain Village resort in the Dells. The sales office closures, which will occur Jan. 20, are part of a company plan to close offices and reduce staff across the country to concentrate on operating its existing resorts, according to Bluegreen's third-quarter Securities and Exchange Commission filing.

Earlier in the month, the Boca Raton, Fla.-based company reported to the state of Florida that it was laying off 122 workers at its headquarters starting Jan. 20.

The firm also said in its third-quarter Securities and Exchange Commission filing that it plans to conserve capital. This will reduce its inventory spending, which includes construction, acquisition and sales, from $215 million during the 12 months ended Sept. 30 to about $45 million in 2009.

The layoffs and closings are expected to cost the company $10 million to $15 million in pre-tax charges in the fourth quarter.

The filing didn’t say how many employees Bluegreen would dismiss nationwide. A Bluegreen executive didn’t immediately return a call for comment.

http://phoenix.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2008/11/24/daily36.html


Linkback - Bluegreen to cut 153 Wisconsin workers
]]> 11/29/2008 6:04:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5073 5073
Beginning at the end of March and continuing to the end of October, the airline is cutting services from Birmingham to Bordeaux, Lisbon, Madrid, Milan and Rome.

The budget airline is part of the bmi group, and has cited worsening economic conditions and the resulting changes in travel patterns as the reasons for the decision.

A spokesman for bmibaby said: “These seasonal summer 2009 routes are being suspended in response to a weakening of consumer demand, which is being impacted upon by the current economic climate and its unpredictability. Travellers are now booking to fly to typical sun destinations for their annual holiday, rather than flying to the more impulsive short-break city destinations.”

He continued by saying: “In sharp contrast, the key Mediterranean routes from Birmingham are performing extremely well and bmibaby will continue to operate flights to our other destinations from Birmingham.”

The airline will be contacting customers with bookings on the suspended routes during that period. Customers will be eligible for a full refund or transfer to another bmibaby destination, at no additional charge.

“Bmibaby is committed to flying from Birmingham International Airport with 10,000 flights planned to and from the airport in 2009,” the spokesman for the carrier added.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/bmibaby-to-suspend-service-on-five-routes-next-summer-5633924.html


Linkback - Bmibaby to suspend service on five routes
]]> 11/29/2008 5:56:27 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5072 5072
Linkback - Consumer Protection From Unfair Trading Regs 2008
]]> 11/29/2008 11:19:46 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5071 5071
The resort consists of barn conversions into modern fully equipped cottages. Week 21 in Rose Cottage, 2 bedroom unit. High RCI points value of 69500 points. The resort has indoor pool, Sauna, Jacuzzi, Gym, Solarium, restaurant and games rooms. Great base to explore the unspoilt area.

Fees £445 per year 2009 paid.


Price £1500 inlcuding all transfer fees.

Linkback - Akeld Manor Week 21 For Sale 2 Bed cottage
]]> 11/28/2008 5:44:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5070 5070
Earlier this week, sales commenced for what are being billed as the most luxurious units on a residential cruise ship ever offered. The ship, called the Magellan Club, is a 76,000-ton vessel, featuring 210 condominium units that have price tags ranging from $2.8 million to $18 million.

On December 15, the cruise line will hold an invitation-only sales event at the Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai.

Work on the cruising residential community began in 2005 and completion is scheduled for 2011. The Magellan will feature top-of-the-line amenities and facilities including an all-weather heliport, a Broadway-style theatre, four restaurants for fine dining, an observatory, a putting green, a spa, a tennis court and two swimming pools.

Passengers will own cabins outright and board and disembark whenever they choose. Time shares on the vessel are also being offered.

Two 624-square-foot cabins are the least expensive residences on offer. They come with a single bedroom and bathroom, and are priced at $2.82 million. Prices rise quickly, however, with the smallest two-bedroom cabin (1,130 square feet) priced at over $4 million.

The most luxurious residences on board are the two $18 million ‘Portofino’ penthouses, complete with four bedrooms, five bathrooms and a total size of over 4,300 square feet.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/residential-cruise-line-offers-luxury-floating-condos-5633917.html


Linkback - Residential Cruise Line-luxury floating timeshare
]]> 11/27/2008 12:05:52 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5069 5069
The distribution arrangement will make it possible to sell its European river cruises for 2009 through Thomas Cook, raising the profile of this cruising sector.

The deal came from a commitment made by Stuart Perl, who is the managing director of Peter Deilmann Cruises, when he joined the cruise line in 2007. He said that he would expand the company’s links to the trade and focus on building interest in river cruising around Europe as an alternative to more traditional cruising holidays.

Perl commented: “The signing of this agreement with one the UK’s most trusted travel brands is a great achievement for our team. It offers us a fantastic opportunity to increase sales by taking our product to a new and wider audience.”

He added: “Despite the economic downturn, 2009 is shaping up to be a great year for Peter Deilmann Cruises with bookings already ahead of this time last year and the exciting launch of our new Christmas Markets cruises as well as extending the season through Christmas and New Year 2010 on the Danube and Rhine rivers.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/river-cruises-to-be-offered-by-thomas-cook-5633915.html


Linkback - River cruises to be offered by Thomas Cook
]]> 11/27/2008 12:03:33 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5068 5068 Economic concerns were given as the reason.

Ed Kinney, vice president of corporate affairs, told The Park Record just days before the announcement that he expected declines in timeshare sales to affect Park City "minimally" and that Marriott was well-positioned to weather the economic storm.

Kinney was not available for comment on the announced closing. Even though Marriott's corporate office is not keeping the closing a secret, the local MountainSide human resources office declined to comment on the fate of the sales staff citing company policy that refers all media inquiries to corporate headquarters. An employee said most would have the option of transferring within the company.

The two timeshare resorts operated by Marriott in Park City, Summit Watch and MountainSide, are both mostly sold out.

The closing is part of a downsizing that other timeshare companies are engaged in as well.

On Sept. 27 the Orlando Sentinel reported Westgate Resorts' president announcing major lay-offs, but Westgate's spokesman refused to comment to The Park Record on that event.

http://www.parkrecord.com/business/ci_11072761


Linkback - Marriott MountainSide closes its sales office
]]> 11/27/2008 12:02:18 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5067 5067 It all started when Low Cost ferry company Speedferries ferry "SpeedOne" was arrested in northern France in a dispute over unpaid taxes and dues.

The Dover to Boulogne SpeedFerries vessel, called SpeedOne, was stopped on Thursday 6th November in the evening in Boulogne by the French authorities.

The Boulogne Port Authority said it obtained an order enabling seizure of the ship over outstanding payments.

Well now it has ended up with the company going into administration, and with no buyer forthcoming the Administrators are winding up the business.

SpeedFerries workers have said "Christmas is cancelled" this year after the company confirmed its closure and the loss of their jobs.

More than 100 posts are being axed at the ferry operator because a buyer could not be found to take it over.

We ourselves, like many had booked a number of crossings using a multitrip ticket. Though we bought the ticket using a credit card, the remaining value is too low to be able to recover the lost money.

The good news for passengers it that Norfolk Lines are offering a 20% discount for anybody with an existing speedferries booking. We have rebooked with them.

http://www.speedferries.co.uk/

http://www.norfolkline.com/EN/FAQ/Passenger_ferry/Discounts+for+SpeedFerries+customers/

Linkback - Speedferries goes Bump.
]]> 11/26/2008 9:59:39 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5066 5066
Guess where it is:




4 points for a correct answer

Linkback - Guess where it is - a Bonus Round
]]> 11/26/2008 7:30:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5065 5065 offers over 99p. 8000 DRI points free (usual reciever to pay transfer
fee, escrow etc applies)

Go on, she is gorgeous -you know you want to!

Hx[:)]



Linkback - photo of my cat for sale
]]> 11/26/2008 7:12:46 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5064 5064
I have been away for some time. It looks like the new Guys cleaned up, Benson is god knows where, Podesta is long forgotten and the members concerns are business as usual, nothing to call home about.

Am I right or am I missing something?

Wolfgang Brand

Linkback - All Good Now?
]]> 11/26/2008 12:25:52 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5063 5063
It's a flight to Las Vegas.

Tickets for a mid-December trip from Appleton to Sin City cost her $29 to go and $89 to come back. She also found a room at the hotel Circus Circus for $29 a night.

"My son thought I was kidding," she said "My son and I were just in Las Vegas last month and I was just looking on the Internet to see how much the prices have changed. I really didn't expect to find such a great deal."

Andrea Rowe Richards, a City of Milwaukee spokeswoman, said she and her husband found tickets over the weekend for a trip from O'Hare International Airport in Chicago to San Francisco, where her mother-in-law lives.

Her late-December tickets on United Airlines cost $264 round trip. "We've not been able to fly for this price over the holidays for years," she said.

The deals are everywhere, travel experts say.

Usually, airfares go up as holidays approach. But tickets for December travel have dropped an average of $53 nationwide over the past five weeks. The average fare at Mitchell International Airport has fallen $31 during the past five weeks.

The average fare at Chicago's two airports has dropped $79.

Genevieve Shaw Brown, senior editor of the Web site Travelocity, said airlines have reduced the number of planes they're flying this holiday season, but the economic downturn has forced travelers to cut back plans more quickly than the airlines.

That means airlines have to cut prices to fill seats.

"People who priced out December travel a few months ago and deemed it too expensive may want to take a second look," said Brown whose company compiled information on the lower fares.

Brown also said airfares to other countries are dropping for December travel, she said. Thanksgiving travelers aren't getting a break on those fares, she said.

Airlines expect Mitchell to be a little less crowded over the next month. Airport spokeswoman Pat Rowe said a survey of airlines shows they expect about 151,000 passengers during the 11-day Thanksgiving period, down from about 170,000 for the same time in 2007.

The heaviest travel days will still be fairly busy, Rowe said. About 19,000 passengers are expected to pass through the airport Wednesday, down from about 20,000 on a typical day, Rowe said.

But on Friday, for instance, only 9,000 travelers are expected at Mitchell.

"They're not flying unless they have to go for work or unless they got one of the good deals," she said.

Brown said travelers should check out different options to find deals. For instance, being flexible on your travel date by a day can produce a significantly cheaper flight, she said.

Flores said she could have saved more money if she had checked out more options. She got her tickets as a package deal - $650 on Allegiant Airlines for three passengers to spend four nights in Las Vegas. But she thinks she could have saved a bit if she had purchased the flights and hotel separately.

But she's happy with the deal. And she expects her granddaughter to be happy.

"My granddaughter is only 3 years old, but has always wanted to fly on an airplane," Flores said.

Tips for travelers

Domestic travelers should get tickets 90 minutes to two hours early. International travelers should arrive three hours early.

Don't wrap gifts. If security screeners need to check the package, "your nice wrapping job is not going to be so nice anymore," Mitchell International Airport spokeswoman Pat Rowe said.

Families, especially those carrying baby formula, and travelers with medically necessary liquids should use the airport's family line at the security check-in. There will be less pressure from expert travelers to rush through the line.

Leave lots of layover time. Many flights are full, so if you miss a connection, it may be hard to get rebooked.

Checking bags will cost. Most airlines have added $15 fees for checking your first bag and $25 for a second bag. Pack light or budget for extra costs.

http://www.jsonline.com/news/milwaukee/35034019.html


Linkback - Travel deals sprouting
]]> 11/25/2008 9:08:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5062 5062
The company is scaling back marketing efforts and new construction to conserve cash because lenders are tightening credit to timeshare buyers, Chief Executive John M. Maloney said in a securities filing Nov. 10.

Bluegreen had been hoping for a cash infusion from Las Vegas-based timeshare company Diamond Resorts, but that deal has not concluded.

As of July, Bluegreen employed about 6,000 people worldwide, including 600 in Boca Raton.

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sfl-flzbluegreendig11250sbnov25,0,2030815.story


Linkback - Bluegreen Corp.: Boca company laying off 122
]]> 11/25/2008 9:06:36 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5061 5061
The delay in transporting the cells jeopardized the operation’s success, reports in the British media added.

An operation in Barcelona last June was to be the world’s first windpipe transplant and it required stem cells grown in a Bristol laboratory to be flown in.

There was a 16-hour window for the transport of the cells, and the medical team needed to make their way to Barcelona as quickly as possible. However, in spite of the importance of the operation to the 30-year-old patient, Claudio Castillo, they decided to save money and fly on budget airline, easyJet.

A lead project researcher, Professor Martin Birchall, said to the media that he had had a number of conversations with airline staff in the hours preceding the flight, and was assured that there would be no problem in taking the stem cells on board.

When arriving at the Bristol airport, though, easyJet staff told him that the package of cells was a security risk as the fluid it contained was over 100ml.

The airline was contacted by CNN, and the news network was told that easyJet had no record of a request to transport medical materials on the flight to Spain.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/budget-carrier-refused-to-transport-stem-cells-5633910.html


Linkback - Budget carrier refused to transport stem cells
]]> 11/25/2008 9:05:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5060 5060
The ads were run in a magazine with national circulation that is associated with De Morgan, the news daily. In the ads, TV presenter Thomas Desoete, appears as a stripper, sporting a Hitler-style moustache and an armband bearing a swastika.

The travel show is aired on the Canvas channel, which belongs to Flemish broadcaster VRT. Management at the broadcaster were not available for comment.

Michael Freilich, who edits Joods Actueel, a Jewish weekly, believes that VRT is simply “looking for excuses” and opportunities to portray Hitler.

“They obviously weren’t happy with our response [to the cooking show], so have added Hitler for no obvious reason other than getting attention and angering the Jewish community and the 15,000 Belgian non-Jews who were deported during WWII,” said the editor in an interview with Haaretz. “The Jewish community is furious. Some are even considering whether they want to live here.”

In the meanwhile, two Dutchmen were each fined 1,100 euros by a court in Belgium last week for saluting Nazi-style at a white supremacist event last year.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/hitler-travel-advertisement-in-belgium-criticized-5633912.html


Linkback - Hitler travel advertisement in Belgium criticized
]]> 11/25/2008 9:03:37 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5059 5059
Linkback - clc points for sale £1 per point
]]> 11/24/2008 7:30:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5058 5058
I will give you some background to my dilemma but essentially it concerns the rising cost of maintenance and what options are available. I am acting on behalf of my grandparents who have reached out to me for some advice.....

My grandparents bought 4 weeks (40,41,42,43) of Timeshare through RCI in Tenerife at Palm Beach Club about 20-odd years ago. It has proved great for their children, and now their grandchildren and they have made some lifelong friends through it. In recent years they have used the weeks and exchanged them to go all over the world now that they are retired.

However, RCI have increased the maintenance charges to £1712 for the 4 weeks (an increase of £77 per week on last year) which works out at £428 per week. It has got to a stage where they feel it is excessive and want to know what is the best thing to do.......

I don’t know the in's and out's of how timeshares work in terms of the cost behind 'swapping' weeks, 'banking weeks', the points system and all the rest of it. I do know that Palm Beach club does NOT allow owners to rent out any weeks they don’t use. This means they can’t get any money back to offset the cost, and are stuck with the weeks either in Tenerife or swapping them and paying the cost associated with that.

My thoughts are that Palm Beach Club has served its purpose for the last 20 years and it may be time to sell them on. The world we live in now is very different that it was 20 years ago and you can get package deals all over the world very cheaply. Paying £428 / week to go to the same place, plus flights etc does not seem a cheap alternative.

Setting aside all the sentimental side / friends I would be grateful for any advice on what to do. They could:
A) Sell - if so will they get much money etc, what is the best way to do this
B) Give the weeks to family members - this would release them from the financial constraints but only passes the burden to someone else in a diluted fashion.
C) Do nothing and the weeks are confiscated - does this mean if you don’t pay the charges you lose your 4 week entitlement for that year but get the weeks the following year if you pay the charge? Does it mean you lose them forever?

Apologies for the long email but I am new to this and trying to help out my grandparents so ANY advice would be really helpful.

Thanks
Terry


Linkback - PBC Tenerife - HELP £££'s - what do i do?!
]]> 11/24/2008 11:22:02 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5057 5057


More of the picture to be revealed daily - the more that is revealed, the less the reward.

Today is is worth 5 points



Linkback - Guess who it is - 23 November
]]> 11/23/2008 10:37:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5056 5056
Linkback - Ferienclub Eichenhof
]]> 11/23/2008 3:59:23 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5055 5055 K727

Linkback - DRI Floating week to give away
]]> 11/23/2008 11:09:22 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5054 5054
When we joined this club we were told many great things. The club held annual meetings in the UK where the direction of the club would go etc.
3 years in no meetings and now the club in its wisdom has added 2 new resorts to its
Catalogue in Malta, it now boast 5 resorts in the exchange system in Malta is this
The direction the members want to take? I want the resorts to be in different countries so the members had more choice of destination

It would be nice to be able to talk with other members and build a forum / council so we would be bale to fight the bad decisions made by the directors and have a say on what happens

Members should be able to vote on the ideas put forward by the directors of the club regards to expansion of the club

Anyone in the Access 2 Leisure club agree with this then we should build our own group so we can have a say as on our own we have no power or say in what we are putting money into.


Linkback - Access 2 Liesure
]]> 11/23/2008 10:06:10 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5053 5053
Tourists who use Dubai’s beaches run the risk of contracting serious illnesses – including typhoid and hepatitis – as the Middle Eastern resort struggles to combat a tidal wave of illegally dumped sewage, doctors have warned.

Authorities in the emirate have come under fire from hoteliers and business owners for failing to address the problem, which is blighting beaches in the upmarket Jumeirah district, where most tourists stay.

Human waste from Dubai’s 1.3m inhabitants is collected daily from thousands of septic tanks across the city and driven by hundreds of tankers to the emirate’s only sewage treatment plant, in the desert at Al-Awir.

At least, that’s what should happen. In reality, the effluent is being illegally dumped into storm drains or hidden behind dunes in the desert by tanker drivers unwilling to join the 10-hour queues at the plant.

Last week, Jumeirah’s sailing club was forced to reschedule a regatta after tests showed dangerous levels of faecal contamination in the water. Keith Mutch, manager of the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, said the situation was “disgusting”.

“It’s happening every day,” he said. “Once again, the club and the harbour smell like a sewage farm. The harbour is black and stinks, and the public beach is swamped with sewage and black sludge. I have again stopped all sailing and swimming on the beach.”

Dubai has threatened to deport any driver found pouring sewage into storm drains, but worried citizens say that the problem ofE coli contamination will remain long after the dumping is stopped.

“Because rain storms are so infrequent, the drains will remain contaminated for many months to come,” said expat Thomas Aldredge. “Considering the hot weather, there are many diseases that could begin to flourish, including cholera. It is shocking that Dubai does not seem to have the will to address this most built to accommodate Dubai’s infrequent rainfall – run straight into the sea, and the sewage tipped into them, often miles from the coast, fundamental of problems.” quickly contaminates inshore waters before washing up on the beaches.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/travel/news/article5207225.ece


Linkback - Poo-bai: floods of sewage threaten Dubai beaches
]]> 11/23/2008 8:29:55 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5052 5052
The Norway-based cruise line has added the 58-cabin MS Expedition to operate 13 new sailings scheduled from June through August of next year.

Built in 1972, the ship is currently undergoing modernization and, when the work has been completed, will feature a bar, expedition lounge, panorama lounge, restaurant, library, fitness room and sauna.

All accommodation on the ship will be in outside cabins having private amenities and windows or portholes.

The ship will be rated as having an ice class of 1B and its stabilisers will ensure that journeys are smooth. A fleet of 10 Zodiacs will be used for landings as well as excursions.

MS Expedition will operate the same itinerary as MV Polar Star, which is a nine-day ‘Kingdom of the Polar Bear’ cruise, beginning and ending in Longyearbyen, circumnavigating Spitsbergen, as weather permits.

Prices for the expedition start from £3,456 per person, for eight days, including full on-ship board, one night of accommodation and sightseeing in Longyearbyen and all taxes and transfers. Flights are additional.

Spokeswoman Kathryn Beadle said: “Agents have plenty of time to promote this new ship and can now confidently sell these departures to see the Polar Bears in their natural habitat.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/demand-increases-on-polar-bear-cruises-5633899.html


Linkback - Demand increases on polar bear cruises
]]> 11/23/2008 8:15:16 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5051 5051
It's unclear exactly how much money might be at risk, but if most of the timeshares available have sold, the number could top $2.5 million.

However, no records of any timeshare sales have been recorded at the city clerk's office. Gail Garrity, owner-broker of Gail Garrity Realtors, who regularly resells timeshares, said it's “highly unusual to have a piece of property not deeded.”

Garrity said all timeshares at Water's Edge Resort in Westbrook, the only other timeshare resort in Connecticut, are deeded in perpetuity.

The Lighthouse Inn's restaurant and hotel rooms have been condemned by authorities, but auxiliary space at the Carriage House has remained open. The inn's owners, Maureen Clark of Stonington and Christopher Plummer of Lyme, have both been charged in the past few weeks with failure to pay employee wages.

The century-old Lighthouse Inn mansion became affiliated with RCI, a timeshare-exchange company that boasts more than 3 million members, in 2003. It immediately earned billing as a Gold Crown Resort, RCI's highest designation, based on the quality and range of its offerings, which included an outdoor pool, nearby beach and banquet and restaurant facilities.

Local couples who bought into the timeshare concept in its first year included Joe and Linda Cook of Uncasville and Sal and Selenda Cardello of Gales Ferry. Each said they paid Lighthouse Group of Connecticut LLC $13,000 for a one-week timeshare over a 50-year period.

”It seemed like a good vacation spot,” Sal Cardello said in a phone interview. “Whenever we tried to transfer to another RCI resort, we never had a problem.”

But this year, Cardello said, the Lighthouse Inn refused to let him “bank” his week, meaning he couldn't exchange his room in the mansion for a vacation at another resort affiliated with timeshare firm RCI. At the same time, he said, the inn cashed his annual check for maintenance fees of more than $400.

Linda Cook said her annual maintenance fee of $395 will not be sent this January, when it is due. She said she has had nothing but trouble with the timeshare since Lighthouse Inn owner Clark convinced her and her husband to buy into the resort five years ago after having dinner at the inn's restaurant.

”She showed us the Carriage House, and it was a spectacular room ... but it was not the room we ended up staying in,” Cook said. “We just got in over our head.”

Cook said neither the Lighthouse Inn pool nor its rooms were well maintained.

”The furniture was old,” she said. “Everything smelled old.”

Calls to the inn and to Plummer went unreturned this week. The doors to the inn were locked during a visit around lunchtime midweek, and only two young men - who identified themselves as Maureen Clark's sons and who said they were there to check on the property - were at the site.

Cardello and Cook said they have been unable to contact the inn's owners.

Cardello said he has talked to an attorney who believes there will be no resolution for timeshare owners until a change of ownership at the inn occurs. It's unclear if the inn files for bankruptcy whether timeshare owners will be able to recoup any of their money or whether the inn's new owners would be obligated to abide by the original timeshare agreement.

Lighthouse Inn is still listed as an RCI resort on the company's Web site. Two calls on separate days to the RCI public-relations office elicited no response, and Cook and Cardello said the company has shrugged off their complaints.

Cardello said he hopes to organize a group of local timeshare owners that might be able to band together to negotiate with any new owner of the Lighthouse Inn. Cook said her best hope is that the Lighthouse Inn - in whatever guise that might take over the coming months - will buy her timeshare back.

If the hotel hadn't closed, Cardello and his wife, barred from trading their timeshare, would have been enjoying a vacation this week at the Lighthouse Inn.

”It's our anniversary week,” Cardello said. “It was a week we set aside to go away, relax and do nothing.”

http://www.theday.com/re.aspx?re=6142faeb-1871-431e-8c2f-33d60818453b


Linkback - Big losses feared at Lighthouse Inn
]]> 11/23/2008 8:05:55 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5050 5050
Linkback - secure leisure
]]> 11/21/2008 4:12:28 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5049 5049
With the current weak pound, are we likely to see an influx of visitors from the US?

We were told a while back that they had stopped coming over because the pound was so strong which made things on this side of the pond too expensive for our American Chums.

Is it now a more attractive prospect?



Linkback - American Visitors
]]> 11/20/2008 10:00:49 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5048 5048
So why not run up a list of legitimate/honest developers?

A list of those developers who are trying to tidy up the timeshare business - get it back to a product worth owning.

Please feel free to post on here names which I will add to this list (please say why they should be included - and bear with me as I may not have heard of them all):


Diamond Resorts International
Club La Costa
Kololi Beach Club & Holiday Village
Wimpen
Pestana
MacDonald Resorts


It's your list - help it grow!

N.B. I accept that on occasion individuals will have problems with developers - it depends on how those problems are dealt with that would help to identify the true intent of these developers.

Linkback - Who are the good guys?
]]> 11/20/2008 9:48:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5047 5047
Anyone been to RCC recently, just curious what's changed if anything over the last 12 months or so.

cheers

Ian

Linkback - RCC 2008 Updates
]]> 11/20/2008 7:44:27 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5046 5046
"They weren't telling them they were getting a voucher, they were telling them they were getting an Anaheim trip," said attorney Scot Boyd, who represented the plaintiffs in the case. "For all timeshares, they have to get bodies through the door so they can do the sales. Now how different companies choose to get people through the door may tell you who's reputable and who's not so reputable in the industry."

His client, Consumer Protection Group, was created to sue Westgate Resorts on behalf of nearly 30 Utahns who the business defrauded, Boyd said.

"[Consumer Protection Group] sent out letters to people who toured Westgate in late 2000, 2001, saying, hey, you may have been defrauded, and out of that got a very, very strong response from about 930 individuals," Boyd said in a telephone interview Tuesday.

In exchange for touring Westgate's new spa, the company promised free California trips including airfare and lodging for two in Anaheim worth about $500, Boyd said.

"Of course you don't get your 'gift' until after you have toured at Westgate," Boyd explained. "Two or three of the people took one look at the restrictions, including the fact that they had to pay money up front, and just threw it out. A lot of people actually followed all of the instructions and were told dates were not available."

The travel certificates and $135 needed to be sent to the redemption company within 21 days for the coupons to be valid, he said.

"Then they find out that you can only fly on Tuesday, you have to fly back on Thursday and you cannot fly either the week before or the week after any of the following holidays. There are 10 of them," Boyd added.

The judgment was levied Friday in Provo following a nearly three-week jury trial.

"In the trial itself the jury gave damages to the individuals who didn't get to travel of $500 apiece," Boyd said. "They found it was a fraudulent scheme and fraud across the board and that's why they gave punitive damages. This is to make a point to the timeshare industry, to Westgate, that you cannot have a fraudulent scheme."

Consumer Protection Group was formed because of the expense involved pursuing smaller individual claims separately, he said.

"The 15 [parties] who are involved don't stand to make a lot of money from all this," Boyd said.

Westgate will appeal a final civil judgment, he added.

"Westgate knew early on that there was a problem, yet they continued to use this certificate literally until they got sued," Boyd said.

Because Westgate only paid $32 for each travel certificate the company should have known the vouchers had little value, Boyd said.

"There's your hint right out of the gate that there's a potential problem," Boyd said.

Attorneys for Westgate claimed the independent telemarketing firm that helped schedule the tours failed to warn callers of travel restrictions, Boyd said.

A Westgate attorney and corporate officials in Orlando, Fla., were not immediately available to comment Tuesday.

http://www.parkrecord.com/todaysheadlines/ci_11015378


Linkback - Westgate hit with $1 million judgment
]]> 11/20/2008 7:07:18 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5045 5045
Timeshare companies are feeling a hit from the slowing economy. Park City though, may be immune, according to local timeshare companies.

Orlando, Florida-based Westgate Resorts, which operates a property at The Canyons, announced major lay-offs recently, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

Mark Waltrip, a spokesman for Westgate at the corporate headquarters, said he believes news reports have been exaggerated and refused to confirm or deny them.

The Sentinel on Sept. 27 reported that the company president announced the lay-off of "hundreds" of people and the closing of sales offices in 28 resorts in the U.S.

Timeshares Daily, an industry publication, reported that 106 people were laid-off from a Houston Westgate office.

Local timeshare properties are not expected to be affected.

Kelly Marshall with Premier Timeshare Resale on Main Street, said she hasn't seen any changes in the resale market. This year's sales numbers are only two-thirds of last year's, but her company is only three years old, she explained, and doesn't believe that's evidence of a trend.

One observable impact is that companies sometimes reserve the right to buy-back property before an owner puts it on the open market. She said she's seeing fewer companies opt to buy-back right now, but that's it.

David Fishlock, general manager for the local Westgate, said everything is status quo. He said sales are normal and they're looking forward to ski season which is a busy time for the resort as well as the sales team.

Waltrip, the corporate spokesman, said that's because Park City is a vibrant market and the company is doing well here. He doesn't anticipate any changes in the company affecting Park City at all.

He said the Westgate resort is mostly sold out and predicts it to be fully sold soon.

There are two Marriott timeshare properties in the area, Summit Watch and MountainSide, and they are sold-out.

Ed Kinney, vice president of corporate affairs for Marriott Vacation Club International, said there's only a small sales team in Park City to handle re-sales and to sell other locations. He said impacts on the timeshare industry nationally will have a "minimal" effect locally.

He said sold-out timeshares are great for tourism towns like Park City because even if the economy is bad, people still vacation to timeshares because they pre-paid for them.

"We saw that after Sept. 11, 2001. The timeshare business stays solid and constant," Kinney said.

He said over-all, his company is doing well because they self-finance. Inter-bank lending freezes don't affect its ability to complete a sale.

http://www.parkrecord.com/business/ci_11015382


Linkback - Timeshare biz steady despite national scares
]]> 11/20/2008 7:04:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5044 5044
Stanley says there are five reasons not to buy into a timeshare:

* High pressure tactics by the salepeople

* High cost--paying $15,000 for one week, for example, amounts to $780,000 per year. Consider if it's worth that much.

* High interest rates, which can be as high as 20 percent

* High fees--maintenance fees and taxes typically run $600 to 4800 per year. Stanley says rise can rise 2.5 times the inflation rate.

* Highly unlikely it's the place an owner will always want to vacation every year.

Stanley says purchasing a timeshare is really not an investment.

"If you try to sell your $15,000 timeshare, the offer might be $2,500--an 85 percent drop in value," he says.

An alternative to purchasing a timeshare property can be to rent one from someone else for $400 to $600 per week. Other vacation options are to participate in a house exchange program.

http://www.kxrm.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=223979


Linkback - Five reasons not to buy a timeshare property
]]> 11/20/2008 7:01:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5043 5043
The Air Canada flight was headed to the UK in January, and was forced to make an emergency stop at Shannon airport in western Ireland after the flight officer began speaking incoherently, according to air incident investigators.

Another flight attendant suffered injuries when crew members forcibly removed the co-pilot from the flight deck, restraining him in a passenger cabin seat.

The Boeing 767 captain of the Air Canada flight from Toronto to London Heathrow asked cabin crew to find out whether there were any trained pilots on board.

A female flight attended said that she had a commercial pilot’s licence, and was asked to take over the co-pilot’s responsibilities.

The captain praised the flight attendant for her assistance in helping to land the aircraft safely at Shannon, where the disturbed flight officer was taken off the plane and admitted to a local hospital’s psychiatric ward for 11 days.

According to the investigation report, the co-pilot was later flown back to Canada by air ambulance to receive further care.

The official incident report was released by the Irish Air Accident Investigation Unit (AAIU), but did not disclose the medical condition affecting the co-pilot.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/attendant-helps-land-aircraft-when-flight-officer-breaks-down-5633897.html


Linkback - Attendant helps land aircraft
]]> 11/20/2008 6:59:45 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5042 5042
Linkback - ETHOS NARROWBOATS, STRATFORD, Mark Tildesley
]]> 11/20/2008 11:54:37 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5041 5041
Linkback - RCI Fees
]]> 11/19/2008 9:39:45 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5040 5040
Linkback - I won a holiday
]]> 11/19/2008 8:03:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5039 5039
Linkback - Alpha Group
]]> 11/19/2008 10:42:18 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5038 5038 Apartado de correos 269
Benalmadena Costa
29630 Malaga
Spain
They want us to go there to recieve payment for a Timeshare.



Linkback - Business Marketing Services
]]> 11/18/2008 9:35:23 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5037 5037
Reports indicate that the firings came from the company’s Sales and Marketing Department.

Harbourside, a timeshare, is owned by US-based Starwood Vacation Ownership.

The property features seven buildings – six with 33 rooms and one with 60 rooms.

On Monday, workers could be seen toting blue folders, which they said contained their severance packages.

According to some workers, they were called into a meeting in an Atlantis Ballroom with hotel executives late Monday morning. There, they were told that they were no longer employed at the luxury resort.

Former Senior Director of Sales John Clarke said many of the workers that he personally recruited were terminated from the Harbourside.

He said it comes as a shock for many of the workers.

"We had individuals who were top in their areas and who have represented the company internationally," Mr. Clarke said.

"With no explanation they were told to turn in their stuff and given a cheque."

"They are very, very upset and I am very concerned."

Mr. Clarke said he believes the situation was handled badly.

"We know the economic situation in the United States but I think there ought to be some respect to sit down with us. Someone could have asked me if I would like to have a pay cut and I may have said no. Some one could have said could we do some things to cut back. None of this was done."

The former executive said another astonishing aspect of the firings was the fact that many people thought the resort was "doing well."

"The vacation-home ownership business is a viable business for The Bahamas," Mr. Clarke said. "If you look at Harbourside the lowest occupancy was eight percent. Of the staff that works there, they are working six days a week. Yes, there are times that we make great money and there are times when it is low and down. Sales and Marketing was cut because of cost. We made great gains in providing benefits for our staff."

Some workers, like Raquel Darville, were visibly upset as they left Atlantis.

"It’s just that we got this letter on Monday saying that business would be closed for the entire day. We didn’t get much notice all we were told was that we don’t have a job anymore."

Ms. Darville, who was a hostess for nine months, said things could have been handled better.

"It’s just a blow. They said it cold just like that. It’s not about the money. It’s close to Christmas. It’s not about the money its principles," she said as tears streamed down her face.

"We are taken by surprise because Harbourside always has business."

Donrica Burrows, who was an employee at marketing, was also shocked.

"We didn’t really know because they made it seem like we were safe because we were under Starwood and not Kerzner," she said. "It’s not like we were doing so bad. To me it just seemed like they were following fashion."

She said nonetheless she was satisfied with her package.

"I think that it is going to last me long and I do have resumes out," she said.

Kendra Mortimer said she had no problem with her package as well.

"It seems pretty decent," she said. "But I am not going to give up on finding another job."

Meantime, Mr. Clarke said he would fight for those who were disappointed with their severance packages.

"This is something I don’t really want to go and deal with legally but I think many of them don’t deserve it," he said.

http://www.jonesbahamas.com/news/45/ARTICLE/18681/2008-11-18.html


Linkback - Harbourside Resort Fires 100
]]> 11/18/2008 6:38:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5036 5036
The airline’s preliminary results for the year ending September 30 2008 (pdf) showed its profits before tax were £110 million, as opposed to £202 million in the previous year.

In the same period easyJet’s fuel costs rose by 66.6%, costing it £708.7 million for 2008, while it carried nearly 43.7 million passsengers, nearly half of whom originated from outside the UK.

EasyJet chief executive Andy Harrison descirbed the results as a “good trading performance” and added the airline's winter bookings for the first quarter of 2009 are “slightly ahead” of the previous year.

However, he warned of tough times ahead, adding: “We recognise that economic conditions will be very difficult and easyJet is planning accordingly, which means focusing on offering customers great value, driving down controllable costs and preserving cash.”

Harrison added despite growing the airline’s fleet to 165 aircraft over the last year - the acquisition of GB Airways in January saw it take on 16 additional aircraft alone - easyJet would remain flexible in its future growth plans.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/11/18/29504/high-fuel-costs-cause-easyjet-profits-to-fall-by-92.html


Linkback - High fuel - easyJet profits to fall by £92 million
]]> 11/18/2008 6:37:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5035 5035
With a later booking season predicted in the economic downturn, many cruiselines are lowering prices on specific dates to boost early bookings.

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines general sales manager Lol Nichols said some of the company’s Caribbean cruises were on sale at half their usual £1,400 price this winter.

He said: “We are having to work very hard to get the business in for 2009. For late business this winter we are having to discount quite heavily; people are buying when the price hits a certain level. Some cruises are selling at half the price they should be.”

He maintained current sales for 2009 were on a par with this time last year, with healthy regional departure sales.

Carnival UK’s sales arm Complete Cruise Solution, representing P&O Cruises, Ocean Village, Cunard and Princess Cruises, is using money-off deals or bonus commission payments to boost trade bookings.

Sales director Giles Hawke said bookings were “adequate” but admitted the lower end of the market, including Ocean Village, was a harder sell. “At the lower price end you have to do more to attract customers who have never cruised before. There are some cruises where you have to go to a certain price point, but a lot are selling at the normal tariff.”

He insisted Ocean Village prices were “no lower than normal”.

Meanwhile, sister brand Costa Cruises is using tactical deals and investing more in marketing. Managing director Marco Rosa said volumes were holding up but at lower yields. “The last three weeks have been amazing in terms of volumes but with lower yields, although they are at reasonable levels.”

Budget brand easyCruise hopes to attract customers looking for cheaper deals. Sales and marketing director Paul Ellerby said: “Overall our pricing should be 30% lower than competitors in the Greek islands.”

But he admitted the lates market could be tough because of competitive flycruise offers from larger cruiselines.

SeaDream Yacht Club has introduced a last-minute Cancel for any Reason policy allowing customers to cancel up to 48 hours in writing prior to departure and delay trips for up to 18 months. It operated a similar policy after the September 11 attacks.

Head of UK business Ian Buckeridge said: “We have introduced this to stimulate the market.”

The company is also using more aggressive tactical offers on less popular dates, such as Caribbean sailings next spring, and special ‘take a mate’ deals until December 15 worth up to 25% off.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/11/18/29500/cruiselines-slash-prices-to-shift-sales.html


Linkback - Cruiselines slash prices to shift sales
]]> 11/18/2008 6:35:49 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5034 5034
Operating within the company’s WorldMark by Wyndham portfolio of world-class resorts, the 241-unit, 14-story property is one of WorldMark’s largest resorts and is the company’s second property in Anaheim. The company acquired the premier land for development of the property in 2005 and began construction the following year. WorldMark Anaheim marks the company’s 15th WorldMark by Wyndham resort in California.

“We have been eagerly anticipating the opening of WorldMark Anaheim as it demonstrates our continued efforts to add value and enhance the vacation ownership experience for our more than 250,000 WorldMark owners who can now enjoy yet another world-class resort,” said Franz Hanning, president and CEO, Wyndham Vacation Ownership. “WorldMark Anaheim in an ideal location for those looking to visit Southern California’s many appealing attractions and it provides a unique perspective of Disneyland® and the Anaheim area that can only be found at our resort which our owners are sure to enjoy for many years to come.”

This premier resort includes a mix of beautifully appointed studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom units as well as two-, three- and four-bedroom luxurious Presidential units. Each spacious unit features an urban contemporary design and contains such comforts as a full kitchen; living and dining area; flat screen televisions; and in-unit washer and dryer. The grand Presidential units include upscale touches such as high-end, stainless steel appliances and granite countertops throughout.

The contemporary design of the property’s units is carried across the resort. Bold colors and shapes are utilized throughout to evoke a dynamic Southern California experience. In addition to the colorful finishes, the resort includes over-sized sculptural and lighting elements designed to subtly provide the feel of a theme park. Artwork in the resort includes images of famous characters from the neighboring Disneyland property, appealing to all ages of visitors.

In addition to its bold design, WorldMark Anaheim provides owners with a number of amenities to enjoy during their visit. The resort features an expansive game room complete with pool tables, video games and air hockey tables as well as a large fitness center. Owners and their guests can soak up the California sun at the resort’s outdoor pool and hot tub, children’s pool and rooftop sundeck with additional hot tubs. As one of the tallest buildings in Anaheim, the 14-story tower’s rooftop deck boasts spectacular views of the surrounding area as well as Disneyland’s fireworks displays.

An urban destination in beautiful Orange County, Calif., Anaheim has a wide range of activities and attractions every family member can enjoy. Beyond the magic of the Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure® Parks, visitors to Orange County can experience the thrills at Knott’s Berry Farm®, watch the Anaheim Angels baseball team, shop at nearby Anaheim GardenWalk or travel a short distance to numerous beautiful beaches.

In recent years, Wyndham Vacation Ownership has greatly expanded its presence in California, adding a number of premier resorts to its portfolio. Wyndham Vacation Ownership has 19 {banned word/phrase} combined in its WorldMark by Wyndham and Wyndham Vacation Resorts portfolios. Throughout the state there are properties in sought-after destinations such as Oceanside, San Diego, Palm Springs, Big Bear, San Francisco and Windsor.

http://www.thetimeshareblog.com/wyndham-vacation-ownership-opens-highly-anticipated-worldmark-anaheim-resort/


Linkback - Wyndham Opens Worldmark Anaheim Resort
]]> 11/18/2008 6:34:38 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5033 5033
The Mayor, along with a coalition of local authorities that represents over four million Britons, has said that the proposed expansion, which would see the number of annual flights at the airport increase from 480,000 to 700,000, would be in breach of EU air pollution regulations.

Any legal action could mean that Transport Secretary Geoff Hoon’s target of runway completion by 2030 would be put in jeopardy. Hoon is expected to approve the expansion before the end of this year.

A spokesman for Johnson said that the May and the local authorities coalition was analyzing the government decision to see if there were ground for legal action.

The Mayor has committed £15,000 initially towards the cost of a legal challenge if his lawyers agree that there are grounds for a lawsuit, and has said that City Hall may contribute more to the action if necessary. A spokesman for the Mayor has said that the business case for a third Heathrow runway does not outweigh the significant noise and air pollution concerns raised.

Whether or not there is a judicial review is likely to depend on a determination if EU air pollution limits would be exceeded by the increase in flights at Heathrow. A white paper issued by the government has said that approval would only be granted if environmental and noise standard are met.

www.heathrowairport.com

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/mayor-of-london-threatens-lawsuit-over-heathrow-expansion-5633882.html


Linkback - Boris threatens Government -Heathrow expansion
]]> 11/18/2008 6:31:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5032 5032


More of the picture to be revealed daily. The more that is revealed the less the reward.

Today it is worth a hefty 7 points!




Linkback - Guess who it is -16 November
]]> 11/16/2008 7:57:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5031 5031
The Boss is running a total of how much money Timesharetalk has saved people because they found us before they committed finance to yet another con.

Please follow the link if Timesharetalk has helped you to save money, and let us know how much!

http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/ttportal.asp




Linkback - How much has Timesharetalk saved you..???
]]> 11/15/2008 10:09:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5030 5030
Linkback - EU timeshare law loophole
]]> 11/15/2008 8:06:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5029 5029
thanks

Linkback - CONTACTS?
]]> 11/15/2008 3:41:11 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5028 5028
The property, called Worldmark Santa Fe, is the company’s third location in New Mexico. Others include WorldMark Taos and WorldMark Red River.

The company acquired the WorldMark Santa Fe property late last year and spent eight months renovating it. It includes hotel, studio and one-bedroom units.

At the end of last year, Wyndham Vacation Ownership operated 145 resorts in the United States. It is the world’s largest timeshare company with 17,700 employees globally.

http://orlando.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2008/11/10/daily40.html


Linkback - Wyndham Vacation opens Santa Fe resort
]]> 11/15/2008 8:18:35 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5027 5027
Four parties that have signed contracts to purchase fractional-ownership interests at The Residences at The Little Nell are asking a judge to declare their contracts terminated and order the developer to refund their earnest money.

If the buyers are successful, they would force the Residences to refund $1,875,000 collectively in earnest money, according to the lawsuit filed Wednesday in Pitkin County District Court.

But there are bigger stakes involved. The plaintiffs could potentially force cancellation of millions of dollars worth of contracts and lead to a broader uprising by buyers.

The development firm, The Residences at Little Nell Development LLC, hasn’t had a chance to respond to the lawsuit yet, and a spokesman for the firm couldn’t be reached for comment Thursday.

The luxury project ran into trouble almost immediately after construction started in July 2005. The 26 opulent residences are being constructed at the base of Aspen Mountain, west of the Silver Queen Gondola where the Tippler nightclub was located.

Movement of Aspen Mountain’s soils during excavation forced Swinerton Builders, the general contractor, to build a shoring wall and undertake a major structural redesign.

The construction headache forced the developer to miss the intended target opening date on June 1, 2008. When contacted this week before the lawsuit was filed, a spokesman for the project said the opening remains “a moving target.” R.J. Gallagher of Gallagher Sharp West in Aspen said the project will open sometime during the ski season. The delay isn’t a result of the financial crisis that is effecting so many developments in the Roaring Fork Valley and around the country, Gallagher said.

“We are financed, and we are financed to complete the project,” he said. “We are in good standing here.”

The project calls for 26 luxury units of three and four bedrooms. They are sold in one-eighth interests with four weeks guaranteed and two additional floating weeks.

Gallagher said about 97 percent of the inventory is already under contract. All of the weeks in the four-bedroom units are sold, and only eight of 152 weeks available in the three-bedroom units are available.

The project will be managed and operated by the Aspen Skiing Co.’s Little Nell Hotel. That boosts the appeal with wealthy clientele because the hotel is a highly regarded five-star, five-diamond property.

The allure was reflected in soaring sales prices. The three-bedroom units started selling for $1 million and now have reached $1.9 million, Gallagher said. Interests in the four-bedroom units surged from $1.25 million to $3 million.

Earnest money, up to $500,000 per interest, has been collected from the buyers, and they signed contracts that will close upon completion of the project.

But the four plaintiffs in the lawsuit say events occurred that allow them to escape the contracts. Brooke Peterson, the agent for the development firm, sent a letter to buyers Sept. 5, 2008, informing them that the soils work required took “a good deal of time” to analyze and correct.

Peterson’s letter says the construction problem signified a “casualty” in a legal contractual sense. And because of that casualty, it would delay the closing of sales contracts. The letter claims the developers have an option of extending the closing date by 90 days. Although they targeted June as the completion, they built in a cushion by placing end-of-year closings in the contracts. Now, they are exercising their right to extend the closings further because of the construction problem.

“Accordingly, we are hereby advising you of our election to extend the closing deadline until March 31, 2009, pursuant to the terms of Paragraph 14 in our contract,” Peterson’s letter says.

The plaintiffs don’t see if that way. The lawsuit was filed by C-4 Trust; Bonnie Englebardt 1998 Retained Annuity Trust; Julie and William Macklowe; and Ellis Partners LLC.

Through their attorney, Neil Karbank of Aspen, they claimed the contract the developer insisted on was very clear about what would occur if the “casualty clause” was triggered: The damage had to be repaired within 90 days or the contract would be terminated. The critical date was when the casualty occurred, which was in 2005, the lawsuit said. It took more than one year and perhaps as long as two years to repair the damage, not the 90 days as required by the contract. Plus, it took the developer more than three years to even notify buyers of the problem.

“Since the Casualty was not repaired within 90 days, Defendant was obligated to terminate Plaintiff’s Contracts and return the Earnest Money to Plaintiffs,” the lawsuit says. The development firm refuses to cooperate, according to the complaint.

The plaintiffs also seek damages for “breach of contract, fraudulent misrepresentation and concealment, conversion, conspiracy, unjust enrichment [and] breach of the duty of good faith and fair dealing.”

The earnest money was used as partial collateral by the developers for securing nearly $160 million in construction financing from the Deutsche Bank Trust Co. Americas, the lawsuit alleges.

http://www.aspentimes.com/article/20081114/NEWS/811139888/1077&ParentProfile=1058&title=Buyer%20uprising%20at%20Residences%20at%20Little%20Nell%20in%20Aspen


Linkback - Buyer uprising at Residences at Little Nell-Aspen
]]> 11/15/2008 8:17:31 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5026 5026
Speaking at the EyeforTravel Conference held at World Travel Market, he said: “The next two years, it’s not about how much money you make, it’s about how much cash you have got. It’s about getting through to the next stage. It’s going to be hell: batten down the hatches.”

Using his experience of tough trading conditions while at MyTravel, he offered travel businesses some recommendations.

Firstly, he said business should control their cash vigilantly. “Companies do not go out of business because they fail to make a profit, it happens because they run out of cash,” he said.

If a business needed to delay paying suppliers, communication was essential, he said. “Get more people in to answer the phones quickly. Let suppliers know why they can’t be paid now and be truthful about when they will be paid. It’s amazing how much credit you can get when you do that.”

The one department you should look to hire more people was the credit control department, he said. Businesses should know if anyone they are supplying is near bankruptcy.

In terms of reducing company overheads, many companies are considering redundancies, he said. “If you are going to do it, do it quickly. Employees know it is coming, they see the sales figures. And be aggressive, because in a downturn, it’s very easy to employ people.”

Endacott also said travel business should look into partnering to drive more volume and lower overheads per sale by combining transactional systems. “Think of the deals that you do not want to do, working with your enemies over the last ten years, and what you can do to drive more volume through your [fixed] overheads.”

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/11/14/29479/on-holiday-group-forecasts-tough-recession-for-travel.html


Linkback - On Holiday Group forecasts tough recession
]]> 11/15/2008 8:14:53 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5025 5025
From January 12th, the existing in-flight visa waiver system comes to an end, to be replaced by a new system requiring travellers to register their details at least 72 hours before departure.

Electronic System for Travel Authorization (Esta), which allows the US authorities to vet travellers before they get on flights, has been operating on a voluntary basis since August.

In that time, 6,046 Irish people applied for Esta, of which 6,015 were approved and 31 denied.

The new procedures have raised concerns about a possible invasion of privacy. US officials who briefed travel agents in Dublin yesterday said Esta would make travel easier for the vast majority of transatlantic fliers.

Paul Morris of US Customs and Border Protection said the data sought from the traveller under Esta is "virtually identical" to the old paper-based system.

Over 99.5 per cent of Esta users have been authorised to travel, he said. Travel was not authorised in cases where a person is suspected of travelling on a lost or stolen passport; is on an anti-terrorism watchlist; or has answered "yes" to any of the traditional questions about criminal involvement, communicable diseases, terrorist activities, previous visa refusal or drug-taking.

Authorisation lasts for two years and so covers multiple flights. Mr Morris said the new system would reduce the number of people who flew across the Atlantic only to be refused entry and sent back.

Although Esta was being introduced for Ireland and 33 other visa-waiver countries from January, immigration authorities would for an initial period look benevolently on travellers who failed to apply for pre-authorisation, he said.

"We will also try to accommodate last-minute travellers, but they take the risk of being denied and not being able to board the aircraft." People who are refused authorisation can apply for visas but this takes at least two weeks.

Esta applications are free and can be made at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov

Some commercial websites charge up to $250 to make applications, but Mr Morris said these were not supported by the US government.

An estimated 550,000 Irish people travel to the US each year.

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2008/1115/1226700611203.html?via=mr


Linkback - Visitors to US need online travel permits in 2009
]]> 11/15/2008 8:13:40 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5024 5024
Two weeks (Red Time) Wks 51 & 52 at Club Nautilus, Matagorda, Lanzarote
Check-in day: Thursdays

I bedroom apartment, Sleeps 4, modern and well equiped, nice spot close to pool but far enough away for peace and quite. The resort is located in a quiet area that has many services within walking distance Restaurants, Bars, Banks, etc in the near-by Matagorda commercial centre. Also close by is a long sea promenade and sandy beach.

The resort has Two swimming pools 22 degrees warm (one for children,) Nautilus restaurant & Bar, 24 hours reception service, Children play ground, Sun beds

RCI affilliated.

Management Fees for 2009: 738.44 Euros for the combined weeks
(These will be paid by us for 2009)

Transfer fee of £50 per week to be paid by purchaser.

All offers considered. Give it a go and you could be spending the year end in Lanzarote! Prepared to consider offers other than cash, perhaps something of value you no longer have use for?

For more resort info see: www.nautilus-lanzarote.com

Linkback - 2wks @ New Year in Lanzarote - Make us an offer
]]> 11/14/2008 5:45:27 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5023 5023 http://www.dri-members.co.uk/2008/11/chairman-of-timeshare-consumers.html

Linkback - SANDY GREY found GUILTY in court of CRIMESHARE WEB
]]> 11/13/2008 9:20:23 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5022 5022 EMAIL maurasj@yahoo.com

Linkback - CLC MEMBERSHIP FOR SALE , £950
]]> 11/13/2008 8:39:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5021 5021
The Organisation for Timeshare in Europe (OTE) welcomes the recent verdict in a libel case against Alexander (Sandy) Grey, Chairman of the self-styled “Timeshare Consumers Association, which has been consistently critical of the reputable timeshare industry.”

The High Court found that it was Sandy Grey himself who was behind the so-called “Crimeshare – Timeshare Frauds and Scams” and related Websites. The Website not only included personal attacks against employees and directors of timeshare companies and OTE, but also produced so-called “black lists” falsely incriminating reputable timeshare companies.

Even though Grey denied his involvement; the Judge – Mr Justice Eady, found that Mr Grey had published the Crimeshare website on all five of the domain names which formed the basis of the High Court claim. Grey was ordered to pay the substantial costs involved in proving his responsibility for publication. Over a number of years Grey had denied that he was behind these sites and had even signed court documents to verify his false denials.

Despite this, he continued to portray himself as an independent advisor on timeshare issues to consumers, the media and government. It is believed that up to 1.5 million individuals may have relied on his “advice” over the years.

More than 200 companies were “blacklisted” by Grey including publicly traded companies such as RCI - the timeshare vacation exchange company, the Organisation for Timeshare in Europe (OTE), to which most European developers belong and ARDA - the American Resort Developers Association.

Peter van der Mark, Secretary General of OTE said of the judgement:
“OTE is very concerned about the legitimacy of a number of private organisations set up around Europe to purportedly provide “consumer advice”. These companies have absolutely no link to the industry or to any government authority. We would advise consumers to exercise caution in dealing with any organisation that refers to the so-called Crimeshare blacklist, Mr Grey or the TCA.”

OTE provides guidance and advice on timeshare through its website www.ote-info.com and offers a free of charge arbitration service for timeshare owners who own at OTE member resorts. Consumers may also contact TATOC – The Timeshare Association - on 0845 2302430 for further advice.

Over the past few years OTE has worked successfully with a number of different European consumer organisations, including European Consumer Centres, ConSeur in Brussels and with TATOC, to name just a few. OTE has valued and continues to value constructive comment and criticism of the timeshare industry by consumer organisations as it contributes to the maintenance of a high level of best practice for the timeshare industry. This has for example resulted in all European Consumer Centres having input into OTE’s 2005 Code of Conduct through a meeting organised by the European Commission and OTE.

OTE tried to establish cooperation with the TCA in 1999 but its Chairman Mr. Grey personally refused any cooperation. It now appears, from the judgement of the High Court on 28 October 2008, that for the past five years Mr Grey has been responsible for publishing serious and false allegations about many of the leading brands in the timeshare industry in Europe.

Club La Costa is also involved in High Court proceedings against a company over unfounded and serious allegations. It is believed that the defendant company had worked closely with Sandy Grey. High Court proceedings continue.

More about OTE:
OTE is the pan-European trade association representing the timeshare industry throughout Europe. It promotes best practice in the industry for the benefit of both consumers and the industry. All members are bound by a code of ethics that ensures the protection of consumers’ rights. OTE provides information and advice to consumers and offers a free conciliation service to consumers dealing with its members.

OTE represents the majority of timeshare companies in Europe which are responsible for some 65-70% of all timeshare sales. These include major hospitality groups such as De Vere, Hilton, Sol Melia, and large independent timeshare developers, namely the Petchey Leisure Group, Club La Costa, Hapimag and Seasons Holidays.

http://www.thetimeshareblog.com/chairman-of-“timeshare-consumers-association”-behind-libellous-websites/


Linkback - Chairman Of TCA Behind Libellous Websites
]]> 11/13/2008 8:26:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5020 5020
Wonder if anyone could help me. How do you copy and paste a web page using your Iphone only. My laptop was out of action, and although I can post using my phone, I cannot copy a web page. Instruction booklet is useless.

Any ideas[:I]

Kind regards

Sue

Linkback - Iphone
]]> 11/13/2008 8:08:28 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5019 5019
Delta said Wednesday that next summer it will add three new non-stop flights from the U.S. to Tokyo's Narita airport, Northwest's Asia hub, from which Northwest flies to 13 other Asian cities. Northwest is also launching new non-stop flights between Seattle and Beijing and between Detroit and Shanghai.

With the addition of the non-stop flights to Tokyo, Delta says it will become the top U.S. carrier to Asia overall, eclipsing United (UAUA) and Continental Airlines' (CAL) substantial service to that region. Most significant will be Delta's new non-stop service between New York — the USA's biggest travel market — and Tokyo.

Wednesday's announcement vividly illustrates one of the chief reasons Delta and Northwest sought to merge, creating the USA's largest carrier.

Delta is the leading carrier at New York's Kennedy airport, operating scores of daily flights feeding passengers to Kennedy from all over the country, where they can connect to international flights. Northwest has long operated a big Asia hub at Tokyo.

With the merger now closed, Delta can leverage that New York hub to Tokyo's Narita airport, the leading gateway to Japan and the world's sixth-busiest international airport.

When Delta's new Tokyo service begins next June, Delta will morph overnight from having no service at all between New York and Asia "to being the No. 1 player between New York and Asia," Delta Executive Vice President Glen Hauenstein said Wednesday.

Continental, which operates a huge hub at Newark Liberty Airport in New Jersey, currently operates the most non-stop service between the New York region and Asia, Continental spokesman David Messing said.

Continental flies non-stop from Newark to Tokyo, Hong Kong and Beijing, and will launch non-stop Newark to Shanghai service in March.

Chicago-based United, the USA's leading carrier to China, operates one non-stop a day between Washington Dulles and Beijing. Its other China service departs from Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Altogether, Delta Wednesday announced 15 new international routes for next summer to Europe, Africa and Asia. Those include flights between Atlanta and Johannesburg, Delta's first daily non-stop service to South Africa.

http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/travel/2008-11-12-deta-airlines-asia-tokyo-routes_N.htm


Linkback - Delta will be USA's top airline to Asia
]]> 11/13/2008 7:52:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5018 5018
Eight banks participated in the financing, led by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., and interest on the 364-day facility is based on variable commercial paper rates plus a spread.

"The conduit adds valuable liquidity to our financing capability," said Wyndham Worldwide Chairman and CEO Stephen P. Holmes. "We are pleased with the execution of this transaction in a challenging credit environment."

The hospitality company claims its Wyndham Vacation Ownership unit is the world's largest timeshare business, as measured by the number of resorts, units and ownership interests. As of Dec. 31 Wyndham Vacation Ownership had developed or acquired about 145 vacation ownership resorts throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the South Pacific that represent more than 17,500 individual units and more than 800,000 owners of timeshare interests.

The business is somewhat controversial because it is pitched as an alternative to owning real estate. However, even before the global real estate collapse, timeshares have been classified in the same manner as automobiles — with new units depreciating in value as soon as a deal collapses.

In addition, financing is usually provided by the timeshare developer, at rates that are relatively quite high even during stable economic times. That presents a question of whether cash-strapped recent buyers might choose to walk away from their timeshares altogether.

http://www.cfo.com/article.cfm/12586619/c_12586130?f=home_todayinfinance


Linkback - Timeshares Secure Wyndham Debt Facility
]]> 11/13/2008 7:49:57 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5017 5017
In the airline of the year category, Etihad Airways was named the winner, with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines coming in first place among cruise operators. Thomson Holidays won the award for large operator of the year and Olympic Holidays the award for the top specialist operator.

Top small operator honours went to Premier Holidays, and the hotel chain award to Riu Hotels. Avis was voted best car hire company, P&O Ferries the best ferry company and Crystal Holidays won the award for the top activity/sports operator.

Although it will be phased out two years, Ocean Village was named best mainstream cruise line of the year, and its sister operator, P&O Cruises, was voted the top premium/luxury line. Hurtigruten won the award as best niche cruise line.

The best UK/domestic operator honours went to Haven, and Manchester Airport was chosen airport of the year.

Top honours as the most environmentally-responsible carrier went to First Choice Airways, and Flybe took top honours as the most environmentally-responsible low-cost carrier.

Awards for environmental responsibility also went to First Choice Holidays and Keycamp Holidays.

The best technology provider award went to Amadeus, while Expedia won for the best flight booking website. Hotels4U.com was awarded the best website for accommodation booking.

VisitBritain was chosen as the best tourist board and Royal Caribbean’s training programme was named tops for the year.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/winners-of-the-2008-british-travel-awards-announced-5633857.html


Linkback - Winners of the 2008 British Travel Awards
]]> 11/13/2008 7:44:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5016 5016
On Tuesday, the airline was forced to cancel 124 flights.

A group of Italian investors has proposed new employee contracts as part of its rescue plan for the bankrupt national carrier. The group, known as CAI, is investing one billion euros in Alitalia.

Pilots and flight attendants belonging to four of the major unions representing Alitalia employees are protesting the proposed contracts via a ‘work to rule’ labour action. They are doing the minimum work required by their contracts, slowing the operations of the airline and hoping to convince management to take their grievances seriously.

Representatives of the reorganized carrier and government officials have said they would not reopen negotiations with the unions, and instead have threatened to hire individual pilots and flights attendants as needed.

The transport commissioner for the EU, Antonio Tajani, commented on Wednesday that he had approved the Alitalia takeover plan, but warned that the airline must pay back a loan of 300 million euro to Italy’s government, according to a report in the Associated Press (AP).

Tarjani noted that the sale of the carrier’s assets would be followed by the formation of a smaller Italian airline that could operate with greater efficiency, the AP report stated.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/strike-causes-third-day-of-delays-at-alitalia-5633871.html


Linkback - Strike causes third day of delays at Alitalia
]]> 11/13/2008 7:43:38 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5015 5015
Multi-millionaire John 'Goldfinger' Palmer, who once lived at Lansdown, spent eight years in jail for masterminding a Canaries timeshare scam in the 1990s, which netted him an estimated £33m.

Many of his victims were pensioners hoping to enjoy their retirement in holiday homes in Tenerife, who lost their life savings.

Mr Cook, 65, who is from the West Country, was famed for uncovering elaborate business scams in his ITV series The Cook Report.

He has dedicated a chapter of his new book to Palmer, who he calls one of the nastiest criminals of all time.


Roger Cook's Ten Greatest Conmen also features Frank Abagnale Jr, the real life Catch Me If You Can conman.

Undercover journalist Mr Cook said: "There are many more interesting criminals than John Palmer but he was certainly one of the nastiest.

"As well as taking money from more than 17,000 people, he managed to make an ass of the law for years. He was selected for the book because he is very clever man."

Mr Palmer was exposed on The Cook Report after an extensive undercover operation.

Palmer was jailed for eight years in 2001 for masterminding the timeshare scam, although he has always maintained his innocence.

His Bath home was the scene of a police swoop in the 1980s as officers hunted for £26m of gold stolen from Heathrow Airport in 1983.

Palmer was released from jail in 2005, after serving half his sentence.

Roger Cook's Ten Greatest Conmen is published by John Blake on November 20, priced £17.99.

http://www.thisisbath.co.uk/news/Cook-report-city-conman/article-465007-detail/article.html


Linkback - Roger Cooks book features John 'Goldfinger' Palmer
]]> 11/13/2008 7:42:45 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5014 5014
Linkback - sole bookers
]]> 11/13/2008 6:48:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5013 5013 Can anyone write it up for me here, please,
Regards,
Billyboy.

Linkback - Palm Beach Club Tenerife-letter in paper!
]]> 11/13/2008 6:28:38 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5012 5012 going for 50p a point
1280 vacation points
all 2008 fees paid
buyer to pay transfer

any interest please reply on here or email me --- karencabryschoolofmotoring@msn.com

thanks

karen


Linkback - 50 pence a point
]]> 11/13/2008 6:00:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5011 5011 I am finally back on line after a few weeks absence while my PC was repaired. It has felt as if someone had cut off my arms.

First, news of Jeff, my fellow moderator, who has had a hip replacement operation. He is doing very well and was expecting to be allowed out of bed today for the first time since the op on the 4th Nov.
We look forward to see him home soon and posting on forums once more.

We are just back from a week on Tenerife (Sunset Harbour)
A very enjoyable time was had by ourselves and our daughter (her husband had to work, how sad). It was nice to have her all to ourselves for a change.
We had a 2 bed apartment in block D, as requested, and this got lots of sunshine on the balconies.
We arrived late evening 20.15pm so it was already dark when we got to the rooms.
Now we have the energy saving light bulbs fitted all the rooms seemed very dark and dull due to the dark furnishings and dark kitchen units and tops.
The rooms were very hot and we turned the fans on as the apartment has yet to have air con fitted.
The bedroom with the twin beds had no natural light or airflow and unfortunately the ceiling fan did not work nor the bedside light, as a consequence our daughter spent a very hot and sticky night.
At breakfast we found that the only way to use the toaster was to hold the pop up lever down until the toast was done.
The three faults I mentioned above were obviously inherited from previous member occupants who just could not be bothered to report them. We reported them to reception on our way out for a walk and were told that the faults would be fixed within 2 hours. True to their word, when we arrived back after an hour the light was working and the toaster had been replaced with a new one and within an hour 2 men came and fixed the fan.
We then got 2 phone calls from reception asking 1) if the toaster had been replaced and 2) had all faults been rectified.
We replied positively but explained that the bathtap came out of its mooring when turned upwards and on. Within 10 mins a man came and fixed this.
It was all so very easy and no trouble so why oh why had not previous occupants not noticed these obvious things and reported them?
We expect so much of DRI but do we too, as members, not have a duty of care to DRI and our fellow members?
By reporting faults promptly it helps both the company and the members. It has to be a two way thing if we are to get the company to provide the best service possible. I do not think it should be necessary for maintenance crews to test all appliances before each occupancy if we are prepared to report faults as they occur.
We did go for a meeting with a rep (Dean) who had only been with DRI since May. He was not the least pushy and was only too pleased to hear my views on a variety of things DRI and I hope that some of the info he got from a members perspective will be of use to him when dealing with other members.[;)] I was happy to attend and give good value for the £50 voucher off my next years management fees [:D]
Lastly a bit of supermarket news. The "ASDA" next to the resort has opened a new supermarket just across the precinct. This new shop is open 24 7 so no matter what time you arrive groceries and drinks are to be had.
The owner of ASDA is very accommodating and goes out of his way for you. I found out that he has a butchers shop in one of the villages and he can also get fresh fish, you just have to order fish or meat from him the day before. We ordered a kilo of cooked shell on prawns for 11 euro and they were waiting for us the next lunchtime. It seems too that his steaks are excellent so next time we go in January we will order some from him.

Linkback - Bit of a mixed bag
]]> 11/11/2008 5:50:23 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5010 5010 My wife and I have waited five years to send off a certificate to this company hoping to claim back some of the money we paid out when we sold our timeshare. We had to send a certificate off between certain dates, and wait for no more than sixty days to learn how much we would recieve.
We tried phoning, and emailing this company, but we have had no reply.

Linkback - Cashback SA
]]> 11/11/2008 3:58:28 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5009 5009 Had a call offering me crazy money for our week in Spain. Wanyed £900 as "security bond". WQhen I tolds them I didnt do "Upfronts" they put phone down.

Sh Publishing is a new one on me....any knowledge please?

Thanks

Linkback - S H Publishing
]]> 11/11/2008 12:17:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5008 5008
Linkback - Marriott Vacation Club in Portugal
]]> 11/11/2008 11:43:15 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5007 5007 Guess who it is:



More of the picture to be revealed daily. The more that is revealed the less the reward.

Today is is worth a staggering 5 points!




Linkback - Guess who it is - 10 November
]]> 11/10/2008 10:26:03 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5006 5006
Thanks

Barry

Linkback - The Leisure Group
]]> 11/10/2008 6:44:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5005 5005 any one intrested please email me---- karencabryschoolofmotoring@msn.com

all 2008 fees paid
buyer to pay transfer fee

thanks
[:)]

Linkback - going cheap-- 70p per point!!!!
]]> 11/10/2008 6:03:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5004 5004
The strategic realignment streamlines exchange operations across its international businesses by cutting layers of management “to improve regional autonomy and accountability”. No numbers of lay-offs were made public.

According to the company, a portion of the restructuring savings will be reinvested in the business to accelerate and promote its new web-based exchange platform which, it says, “will improve overall member experience and satisfaction while reducing operating costs”.

Speaking in Madrid where he attended the OTE Business Forum, Geoff Ballotti, president and chief executive officer of Group RCI, told OTe-news the economic crisis and credit squeeze had had the effect of “dampening the growth we have been used to”.

The company was seeing sales slow in many big markets, people were travelling closer to home and not booking as far in advance as had been the case previously.

Having said that, its European business had increased year on year. “Our inbound and outbound exchanges are up 15 per cent in this part of the world,” said Mr Ballotti. “What we have seen in the last three or four weeks is that growth has not been that strong. It has been slowing.”

The company had been very strong up to the second quarter. “We will grow the business again this year,” he added.






Linkback - RCI "restructure" sparks cutbacks
]]> 11/10/2008 7:26:22 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5003 5003
GuestInvest purchased two central London properties in January for £120million and said it was looking to expand overseas.

In a statement, Stuart Law, chief executive of property investment boutique Assetz, said the move into administration “appears to be a direct result of HBOS running out of capital to lend to clients during the ongoing credit crunch”.

He added: “It is the company and not the investment model that has fallen into trouble. Hotels continue to offer excellent potential for investors in the current climate.”






Linkback - Hotel developer goes bust !
]]> 11/10/2008 7:23:59 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5002 5002
LRP became the prime owner of the Finnish company in 2005. The new owners -- they bought out LRP’s shareholding for an undisclosed sum – are Varma Mutual Pension Insurance Company, Finnish Industry Investment and a group of private investors.

In a statement Holiday Club said the transaction returned the company to “financially sound and well-established Finnish institutions and private investors”.

Holiday Club has approximately 40,000 weekly timeshare owners, more than a thousand of which are companies or organisations. It operates more than 1,100 holiday homes in 16 locations in Finland, Sweden, Russia and Spain. The Club also runs the Holiday Club Spa Hotel business in Åre, Sweden.

According to Vesa Tengman, chief executive of Holiday Club Resorts Oy, “The new structure of ownership improves our opportunities to expand our business and to make future investments. At the moment we are increasing the number of weekly timeshares in Kuusamo, Katinkulta and Salia.”






Linkback - Changes at Holiday Club Finland
]]> 11/10/2008 7:22:50 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5001 5001
The decision follows a protracted planning process where environmentalists opposed the project that will be developed on the Menie Estate, north of Aberdeen. The site incorporates a series of sand dunes, home to a variety of wildlife.

Although the plans were originally rejected in a close vote by the area council a year ago, the government, which has power over planning policy, called in the proposal and set up a public inquiry.

The development was widely supported by business and tourism leaders along with Alex Salmond, first minister of the Scottish government. It could also generate 6,000 jobs, some 1,400 locally, he said.






Linkback - Trumps Golf Go-Ahead
]]> 11/10/2008 7:21:42 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=5000 5000
The Directive is due to go to the Council of Ministers for final adoption next month.

OTE welcomes the development that will harmonise timeshare regulation across Europe. “Also the Directive will increase confidence for consumers investing in holiday ownership,” said secretary general Peter van der Mark.

The next stage in the legislative process is for all 27 members of the European Union to incorporate the Directive into national law which could take up to two years.

The Directive updates the 1994 Directive, covering new products and services and closing loopholes exploited by rogue operators. “With the new rules, traders will have to provide comprehensive pre-contractual information so that consumers can make an informed choice,” said Meglena Kuneva, the EU commissioner responsible for consumer affairs.

The Legislative Council, which spearheaded OTE’s lobby, is satisfied that many of the new requirements are already common practice among member companies.

The cooling off period for consumers is now 14 calendar days across Europe that can be extended to three months or even a year if key data is omitted from sales contracts.

For the first time re-sales, trial memberships and exchange services are covered by the Directive.

With its legislative programme, OTE has been successful in blocking contentious proposals that would have been detrimental to the timeshare industry. They included a 21-28 day cooling off period as well as cumbersome and unnecessary rules allowing consumers themselves to run highly complex timeshare resorts.

According to Mr van der Mark, Discount Travel Membership Clubs have ceased to be commercially viable by the new legislation. “Consumers increasingly complain about these travel clubs and the authorities estimate they have been responsible for a massive amount of fraud within the EU,” he said. “This will now be effectively stopped.”

OTE has urged the authorities to remain vigilant against DTMCs and unscrupulous re-sale companies, a task that should be made easier with the new law.

OTE has also welcomed the recognition in the Directive of the role of trade associations along with their Codes of Conduct and independent arbitration service. Non-member companies will have to disclose that they have not signed up to the Code and the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) system.

“This is important for OTE members who often felt at a competitive disadvantage against developers and marketers outside OTE membership who did not have to observe the Code,” said Mr van der Mark.

He went on to say: “Now is the time for those non-member companies operating in the EU to consider joining before individual member states implement the Directive and they find themselves at a disadvantage with consumers who will want to know why they are not prepared to abide by the Code.”

Administered by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, the ADR service is potentially available to every consumer making a timeshare purchase from an OTE member company.






Linkback - New Timeshare Directive
]]> 11/10/2008 7:20:44 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4999 4999 I have a time share in England for sale. In June I was contacted by End Vacations in Malaga,who said that they had a buyer to purchase but they wanted 1200 Euro's ,after long discussion they settled for 600 Euro's .I heard from them again in October,they didnt seem to have my details,then I was told I had to contact the head office in Malaga.Despite emails being sent and a message left,no one contacted me again until Thursday the 6th of November to say that someone should have contacted me to update me on the ongoing sale,so apologies given.
Now comes the request for more money.they said that the original purchasers were waiting for a loan,and now they had new buyers,who would be flown out to Malaga to attend a presentation and then sign the contract for the purchase of my timeshare in the presence of the Notiary Public (lawyer).But they would require a further 1690 Euros from me ,which would be returned with the original 600 Euro's already paid on completion of contract.There was a topic on here in March 2008 about End Vacations. Any advice appreciated.
Regards
Dave

Linkback - Scam or Legitimate
]]> 11/9/2008 1:25:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4998 4998
Linkback - 35$ Guest Fee introduced for US members
]]> 11/8/2008 9:26:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4997 4997
The management fee of £700 per week is due in December and to be quite frank I am not in a position to pay it right now so I'll consider any half realistic offers for these weeks.

Cheers

Dave

Linkback - 2 Gold Crown Weeks to sell in Spain - 8 beds
]]> 11/8/2008 11:14:25 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4996 4996
Linkback - privacy places club palm beach
]]> 11/7/2008 4:59:25 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4995 4995
I think they have arrisen from the Premium Group as these are the only people to my knowledge who I have spoken with about sale of timeshare.

Linkback - worldwide marketing services
]]> 11/7/2008 12:31:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4994 4994
I was invited to attend their 'holiday show' in exeter to pick up my £49 per person holiday to anywhere in Euroupe. I have been invited to something like this before but was assured that this was different, that the company did not have anything for me to invest in, that it was purely a promotional and genuine holiday offer.

We recieved the letter but decided against it as the letter seemed a bit 'dodgy', we called the number on the letter and the person was very rude and told us we must bring proof of our income, which made us rather sceptical.

The monday after we where due to come along we recieved another disturbing call from the manager of quay marketing, Shelly.
She was rather pushy, in the end we agreed to come along the next week.

We where told it was a holiday show, that there would be many different companys and we could browse the fair at our lesuire. We where even promised champagne!!

As you can guess it was a compleate scam. We where shoved into a room with a sales person who was VERY pressuring and rather intimidating.
He was trying to sell us a share in a club costing nealy £10,000, we told him that we just could not afford this, but it was extremely hard-sales.
After the first 90 minuites or so, we had had enough and asked to leave the meeting with the holiday that we had been promised. We where told that we needed to stay for a full 2 and a half hours in order to get the holiday.
As we had travelled 200 miles and booked time of work to come, we decided to put up with this until we were given our holiday.

The outcome was that we did recieve our holiday, but only the accommidation was included in the price, we would have to pay for our own flights. We where told we must fly from Bristol airport which wasn't our first choice, that we could not take our holiday within the peak season and we had only 3 destinations to choose from.

Anybody who is thinking of going, DON'T. It's just another timeshare scam. Feel free to e-mail or instant-message me also.

Linkback - QUAY MARKETING/QUAY TRAVEL
]]> 11/7/2008 12:07:03 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4993 4993
Do not believe a word they say.


RE: Timeshare Detailsþ
From: admin (admin@worldwidedgs.com)
Sent: 05 November 2008 10:19:19
To: charles gee

5 attachment(s)
imstp_ani...gif (32.8 KB), imstp_ani...gif (25.4 KB), imstp_ani...gif (25.4 KB), imstp_ani...gif (25.4 KB), imstp_ani...gif (25.4 KB)

We are pleased best of luck with your sale.
We do not resell timeshare.


Linkback - World Networking Sales
]]> 11/5/2008 12:35:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4992 4992
Linkback - I L G RIP OFF
]]> 11/5/2008 12:27:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4991 4991
Anyone had any dealings with this company? they phoned me with an offer same as it cost us to buy back in 1985... but as usual they have asked for 1200 euros upfront which I don't like as been ripped off before and still dealing with those repercussions. Any info greatly appreciated

Finalla

Linkback - Real Escape
]]> 11/4/2008 10:47:57 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4990 4990
I have an 8 foot pike rod with a small multiplier loaded with 44lb Braid (approx 100 yards).

Also I have been using a 35lb wire leader with some rubber lures.

The lures seem to work as I have had a couple of "bites" by very large Pike, but the lure in question was only loaded with a treble underneath (approx a 3/0). Problem is that the pike took it from above, missing the hooks but leaving huge gouges in the lure.

There are at least 2 massive pike in my local canal - any tips on catching the big beggars would be appreciated.

N.B. I now have some more lures with a large hook on top and a trailing treble below...



Linkback - Pike fishing....?
]]> 11/4/2008 10:08:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4989 4989
Linkback - COURT ORDER FOR NOT PAYING MAINTENANCE FEE
]]> 11/4/2008 8:30:45 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4988 4988 They say they have a purchaser for your timeshare & request a returnable bond by credit card. When payment is requested back they refuse.
They also quote a London office 324/326 Regent Street W18 3HH. This turns out to be just a mail forwarding address but helps with the scam.
They say they are part of group of companies The Holiday Property Shop, WNS Sales & Marketing & Transglobal Estates Universal SL think known as http://www.globalnetworkingsales.com.
NSCQ

Linkback - World Networking Sales - Scammers
]]> 11/4/2008 11:21:36 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4987 4987 i have 1280 vacation points for sale, i put them on here in august @ £3.50 a point iam now wanting a quick sale to get rid of them, will accept £1.50 per point ono

all 2008 fees paid buyer to pay transfer fee

please reply here or email me at karencabryschoolofmotoring@msn.com

Linkback - points quick sale
]]> 11/3/2008 9:55:49 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4986 4986 Guess who it is:



More of the picture to be revealed daily - the more revealed the less the reward.

Today it is worth 3 points!




Linkback - Guess who it is - 03 November
]]> 11/3/2008 9:03:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4985 4985 not touch this company at all, you can speak to them and they are still there but you never get anywhere. My mother paid money in April this year to sell her timeshare and as all the normal scams the sale fell through and I have been trying to get her money back since then. I have phoned, e-maied and written all to be told that they are entitled to keep that money for 12 months which she said was on the contract my mother signed for the sale, butI have gone over and over the contract ad can't find anything at all so wrote to them and they said she has been transfered to something like a business club which they said she agreed to, but I know she hasn't as she is now terminally ill and will not have any dealings with them since the sale fell through as she always tells them to ring me.

Linkback - STARTING POINT MARKETING
]]> 11/3/2008 8:03:55 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4984 4984 Has anybody heard of them before ?? the offer they ar egiving look's too good[?]

Linkback - Timeshare is this a scam
]]> 11/2/2008 8:51:07 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4983 4983
RCI, the world’s largest timeshare exchange company and a part of Wyndham Worldwide (NYSE: WYN), has signed an affiliation agreement with Salwan, a property management company and a subsidiary of Dubai Properties Group (DPG), to offer the RCI Points® exchange program to the owners at Salwan Hotel Apartments.

Geoff Ballotti, President and CEO of Group RCI, speaking at the signing ceremony at Salwan Hotel Apartments, said: “We are very proud to have Salwan Property Management join RCI’s worldwide exchange network of over 4,000 affiliated resorts. Owners at Salwan Hotel Apartments will benefit from the myriad of value added services and travel benefits we provide. Our global reach serves as an added incentive to future Salwan owners who will have access to the largest portfolio of vacation resorts in the world and be supported, both on-line and by dedicated, multi-lingual vacation guides in our call centers across the globe.”

Saeed Bushalat, Chief Executive Officer of Salwan said: “We have launched the Salwan Hotel Apartments to allow international clientele an opportunity to visit and spend time at one of the most sought after locations in Dubai. Affiliating with RCI will help Salwan Hotel Apartments create worldwide brand awareness and attract tourists from abroad. At the same time, some RCI members will have a benefit of access to properties at the exclusive Jumeirah Beach Residence. The flexibility this tie-up provides to Salwan means that we are able to offer our buyers a product that can change as their lifestyle does, adding weight to our sales program.”

The Salwan Hotel Apartments will offer 80 luxuriously appointed one, two and three bedroom units allocated to the timeshare program, all equivalent to five star hotel accommodations. The property, located in Dubai’s highly sought after Jumeirah Beach Residence in the heart of new Dubai, offers direct access to the beach, the Marina, and The Walk featuring the latest in designer shopping and haute cuisine across a 1.75km beachfront boulevard.

Bushalat added: “We are confident all 80 apartments will be quickly snapped up by investors worldwide seeking the winter sun, as well as others from the broader Gulf area, keen on Dubai’s world class shopping and leisure options that are at the doorstep of the hotel residence.”

About RCI
RCI was founded in 1974 when it introduced the concept of timeshare exchange. Today, RCI is the global leader in vacation exchange with the largest timeshare exchange network in the world and is a leading provider of travel services to businesses and consumers. RCI offers over three million members flexible vacation options at more than 4,000 resorts in more than 100 countries through its RCI® Weeks, traditional week-for-week exchange program, and RCI Points®, the industry’s first global points-based exchange system. RCI delivers customized, integrated and results-driven solutions to help meet the needs of its affiliates and consumers worldwide. RCI is a division of Group RCI, a global leader in leisure real estate and one of the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies (NYSE: WYN). For additional information, visit www.rci.com or www.grouprci.com.

About Salwan
Salwan Property Management, a subsidiary of Dubai Properties Group and a member of Dubai Holding, is a leading provider of innovative leasing and property management solutions and the introducers of the strata management system to the region. Established in 2008, Salwan offers a full spectrum of enabling services to residential and commercial stakeholders. Its service portfolio includes property auctions through Mazad Auction House, property management, leasing, third party leasing, hotel apartments, and a real estate advisory service.

Salwan also offers a complete range of construction supervision and administrative services ranging from contract negotiations and build-out to leasing and risk management. The company currently offers premium real estate services to more than 14,000 properties around Dubai including Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Cordoba Villas, Al Quoz Community Housing, Al Razi Residence, 558 Villas at Dubailand, Dorat Mirdiff, and Office Park at Dubai Internet City.

http://www.hotelinteractive.com/article.aspx?articleid=11970


Linkback - RCI Signs Timeshare Affiliation
]]> 11/2/2008 3:34:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4982 4982
A summer of soaring oil prices and falling passenger numbers contributed to the demise of 30 airlines this year – including XL, the UK's third-largest tour operator – with industry bodies warning that hundreds more British tour operators face collapse.

Travel firms are becoming increasingly concerned. BMI announces today that it will be scrapping fuel surcharges on flights within the UK and Europe in an attempt to give cash-strapped travellers a break.

The airline, which specialises in short-haul flights to destinations such as Dublin, Brussels and Venice, hopes that the reduction of these "hidden charges" will persuade holiday-makers to travel despite the current economic conditions.

Last week British Airways announced that it was slashing fares to more than 70 destinations, with as much as 40 per cent off some flights. Holidaymakers can now head to the Caribbean island of St Kitts for just £499 – saving £256 on the full-price fare.

New figures from Ascent Market Intelligence's Leisure Travel Monitor have revealed that September holiday sales in the UK were down 8 per cent on the same time last year, with cheap European package deals to destinations such as Spain, Greece and Cyprus proving particularly hard for travel agents to shift.

"September was a quiet month for travel agents, but it isn't that bad. The credit crunch has been an issue in the industry for a while now, but in summer 2008 we sold as many holidays as in summer 2007," said a spokesperson from the Association of British Travel Agents (Abta).

Parents are proving particularly reluctant to book expensive holidays in the midst of the credit crunch, with sales of family holidays 16 per cent lower in September than at the same time last year.

Some believe that the fall in sales is due not to reduced demand, but to strategic capacity cuts implemented by the tour operators – which saw travel agents offer around 275,000 fewer holidays this summer.

"If you look at what the industry has been doing over the last few years, companies have been steadily reducing capacity so that they don't have empty seats on planes or empty beds in hotels – each company has probably reduced its capacity by around 4 per cent," said the spokesperson.

"This means that you won't be looking at large numbers of cheap holidays, because they have cut the supply."

The gradual reduction in the number of holidays available was accelerated by the collapse of XL Leisure Group in September. Thousands of passengers were left stranded after the company went into administration – citing rising fuel prices and a weak business model.

While overall holiday sales may have slumped, the research from Ascent shows that sales of more expensive package deals – those priced between £400 and £1,000 – actually rose by 8 per cent this summer.

This buoyancy may be due to the huge discounts that many high-end companies are offering. Virgin Holidays are currently advertising "Halloween" specials, including a £719 discount on a seven-night holiday in Mauritius, reducing the price from £1,668 to £949.

http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/holiday-firms-give-travellers-a-break-984654.html


Linkback - Holiday firms give travellers a break
]]> 11/2/2008 3:33:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4981 4981
Citing unnamed sources, the paper said Qatar Airways, US aircraft charter firm Chrysler Aviation, Greek-US investors consortium York Capital/Olympic investors and a consortium of Greek shipowners and private equity funds have expressed initial interest in the ailing airline.

Greece's conservative government launched a tender in September to split the loss-making carrier into three parts, the airline services along with the ground handling and the technical maintenance units, and sell them off. Investors had until the end of October to express an interest to bid.

Five firms, including Goldair, Chrysler Aviation and Spain's Swissport and Flight Care, have submitted interest for Olympic's ground handling services, the paper added.

Officials at Greece's Transport Ministry declined to comment on the report.

The government said on Friday it would announce Olympic's short-listed applicants early next week. Interested parties will then be allowed to conduct due diligence on Olympic and submit non-binding bids by the end of the month.

Greece aims to conclude the tender by the end of 2008, ending years of failed attempts to privatise Olympic.

The plan has been approved by the European Commission, which agreed to suspend action over illegal state subsidies if the sale went ahead.

Lazard, NBG International, Alpha Bank and Emporiki Bank are advising the government on the tender.

In an article in another newspaper, Greek Transport Minister Costis Hatzidakis defended the 1.3 billion euro plan for the sale of Olympic, saying the privatisation would be to the Greek people's benefit.

"Greek taxpayers will be benefited, as they will have to pay much less money than what they would pay if we kept the current ailing and loss-making Olympic," Hatzidakis wrote in Kathimerini newspaper.

Olympic Airlines carried 6.2 million passengers in 2007 to 36 cities and islands in Greece and 37 destinations in Europe, Asia, North America and Africa. It has losses of over 2 million euros a day.

http://www.reuters.com/article/euMergersNews/idUSL111784720081101


Linkback - Qatar Air, US firm eyeing Greece's Olympic Air
]]> 11/2/2008 3:31:52 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4980 4980
Linkback - Possible scam
]]> 11/1/2008 9:27:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4979 4979 They offer excellent prices and tell you they have a buyer. Then they send excellent fake contracts and hit you with the tax up front scam. Female name on the phone is Ms Rebecca Gray (english)who gives good spiel and tells you they are a reputable real estate company with 15 years experience. Beware!

Linkback - Gestores Urbana Quinta
]]> 11/1/2008 7:05:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4978 4978 I have some free time and am considering a day trip on a cheap flight on a Sunday.
Thanks[:p]

Linkback - Tobacconists Costa del Sol
]]> 11/1/2008 2:55:22 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4977 4977

Linkback - timeshare sale
]]> 11/1/2008 6:28:12 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4976 4976
Linkback - is this a scam
]]> 11/1/2008 3:45:37 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4975 4975
Unloading a timeshare property, especially as a recession looms, can seem like an impossible feat. While it's certainly not an easy task, there are ways to sell or get rid of a timeshare for those determined to do so.

The first issue you'll encounter is determined by whether you still owe money on a timeshare loan. If you do, you aren't going to be able to sell the property. No matter how much you hope and wish that someone will take over the loan for you, it isn't going to happen. If you want to get rid of the property, you'll have to first figure out a way to pay off the debt.

The next step is to determine if you want to try to recoup some of your money, and if so, how much. Unfortunately, you are going to end up losing a lot of money, especially if you bought the timeshare directly from the resort. Many Web sites estimate that timeshares resold on the secondary market will sell for 50% or less of the original price; and with the economy in poor condition, you should not be surprised to have to sell for a loss of more than an 80% on the original value.

With so many more people trying to sell timeshares vs. those looking to buy, coming to accept that you will lose a lot of money is a major factor between a quick sale and having the timeshare remain unsold.

Here are six possible ways to unload your timeshare.

Use the Internet: There are a number of sites on the Internet that specialize in selling timeshares. Most charge a fee to list a timeshare for sale, but your best chance of selling your timeshare doesn't cost a dime. The Tug Timeshare User Group has a large base of members that are all interested in timeshares. If you want to sell your timeshare, this may be your best online opportunity to do so. The listings are free.

Sell on eBay: Another option is to list your timeshare on e
Bay.com. The auction Web site features a how-to section on selling timeshares.
Donate to charity: If you have reached a point at which your main goal is to get rid of the timeshare and the fees that go along with it, you might consider donating your timeshare to charity.

Unfortunately, donating is not as simple as it might seem. Charities that do accept timeshare donations are well versed in knowing which properties they can resell and which ones they will have a difficult time reselling. If a charity believes it'll have a problem reselling your property, it likely won't accept the donation. After all, the charity has just as much interest as you do in being stuck with maintenance fees.

Donating to a charity is worth a try if you need to unload. Doing so has its advantages because a lot of the work involved in getting rid of the property is turned over to the charity, meaning you avoid the hassle. Many times the donation will also qualify as a tax deductible donation, but don't expect to be able to deduct the full value of the timeshare off your taxes. In this case, you will only be able to deduct what the charity sells the timeshare for which will likely be a fraction of that price.

Find a real estate agent: One of the first rules when selling a timeshare is that you don't want to give money upfront to someone to sell the property. There are a lot of people out there that prey on folks in desperate need to get rid of their timeshare. These people know exactly what you want to hear, and they will make a lot of promises that they will not keep to get you to part with your money upfront. If they require an upfront fee to sell your timeshare, you should pass.

Instead, try to find a real estate agent that gets paid on commission when the sale closes. It's important to realize that many real estate agents don't like marketing timeshares because they are so difficult to sell. In order to get someone to represent you, you may have to give the agent a big incentive like a set fee (rather than a percentage of the sale) or a greater-than-normal percentage of the price once the sale closes. Be flexible and make it worth the agent's time to sell your timeshare.

eBay is also a great place to research what your timeshare may truly be worth. Search for timeshares at your resort or a similar resort to see what they have been selling for. This research will give you a good idea of what you can expect to receive for your unit. Also spend some time going through the listings of those timeshares that have sold and make notes of what you liked in the listing. There are a lot of timeshares on the market, so making your auction stand out will help to sell it.

List in local papers: The people that will be most interested in buying a timeshare will be those that visit the area where the timeshare is located. The best chance of reaching these vacationers is to advertise in the local tourist magazine or newspaper. Along the same lines, putting up notices where the timeshare is located and in areas where tourists are likely to frequent can be a good way to generate some sale leads.

Give it back: One big shock some timeshare owners face comes when they hit the point at which they just want to get rid of their timeshare and don't care if they get any money for it. Many have found that the timeshare resort often won't even take the timeshare back for free. Why? The timeshare resort knows it'll have just as much trouble selling the unit as you, and it would rather continue to collect your maintenance fees than take back the timeshare.

Still, trying to hand back a timeshare property for a complete loss can be worth a try when owning the property becomes onerous. There are some things you can do to make the timeshare resort more willing to take it back.

If the timeshare resort refuses to take your unit back when you first offer, explain to them it will be in their best financial interest to do so. They may play hardball, and you may have to do the same. While you shouldn't do anything illegal, you do have the right to use every legal persuasion. You need to convince the business that it's not in their best interest to have you continue to pay the fees.

If the resort has bulletin boards, post fliers advertising your unit at a deeply discounted price. Resorts don't like to see these ads because it makes the resort look like its units are worth much less than what they are charging. Sit out on the public street in front of the resort with a huge sign advertising your unit (or pay someone to do it).

Again, it's hard for a resort to make sales when potential customers see that they can get the units for a lot less. Because it's a business, a resort may be willing to concede and take back your property if you become enough of a pain that the resort determines it stands to lose more money in lost sales than it will make off your fees.

While it is not easy to sell a timeshare, it's also not impossible.

It will take time, determination and a willingness to realize that you will lose money (mark it up as a financial lesson), but with a bit of hard work you can get those maintenance payments off your budget and free up the money for more important financial needs.

http://www.thestreet.com/story/10444874/1/ways-to-escape-the-timeshare-trap.html




Linkback - Ways to Escape the Timeshare Trap
]]> 10/31/2008 8:24:39 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4974 4974
Linkback - DRI suddenly close DevBuyBack in US - implications
]]> 10/31/2008 8:21:50 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4973 4973
Wyndham's shares, which have fallen from over $33 a year ago, rose more than 16 percent to $8.30 on Thursday morning.

The company serves primarily U.S. leisure travelers through its timeshare businesses and economy hotel chains.

Wyndham, which operates brands such as Ramada, Days Inn and Super 8, said net income rose to $142 million, or 80 cents a share, from $117 or 65 cents a year earlier.

Adjusted net income, excluding $6 million in one-time items, was $148 million, or 83 cents a share.

Revenue rose 1 percent to $1.2 billion.

Analysts on average expected earnings of 80 cents a share and revenue of $1.27 billion, according to Reuters Estimates.

"Wyndham's timeshare business showed surprising strength -- it was a decent quarter given the operating environment," said Jeremy Glaser, hotels analyst at Morningstar.

Wyndham's revenue per available room (RevPAR), a key industry measure, decreased 2.7 percent in the third quarter, reflecting declines of 4.2 percent and 1.7 percent respectively in domestic and international markets.

UNCERTAIN OUTLOOK

For fourth-quarter 2008, Wyndham expects adjusted earnings per share of 41 cents to 46 cents, below the 50 cents a share that analysts had been expecting.

"We are still expecting a difficult fourth quarter for the travel industry," said Wyndham Chief Executive Stephen Holmes in an interview.

Asked about leisure travel trends amid the economic slowdown, Holmes said customers are still traveling but more people are booking their trips at the last minute and some are cutting the length of their stays.

For full-year 2008, Wyndham expects revenues of $4.36 billion to $4.41 billion and adjusted earnings per share of $2.12 to $2.17, below the revenue of $4.5 billion and earnings of $2.19 a share that analysts had been expecting.

For full-year 2009, Wyndham forecasts revenues of about $4.1 billion to $4.5 billion, while analysts had been expecting $4.45 billion. (Reporting by Mark McSherry, editing by Dave Zimmerman)

http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssConsumerGoodsAndRetailNews/idUSN2934535820081030?sp=true


Linkback - Wyndham profit up 21 pct, but expects tougher Q4
]]> 10/31/2008 8:17:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4972 4972
The combined airline will be based in Atlanta and retain the Delta name, with Northwest temporarily becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Delta known as NWA Inc.

Delta (NYSE: DAL) and Northwest announced plans to merge in April. The deal creates the world’s largest airline. Northwest is the third-largest carrier at Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport and is a passive minority owner of Midwest Air Group Inc., the Oak Creek-based operator of Mitchell's top airline Midwest Airlines.

The new Delta has about 75,000 worldwide employees.

As approved by both companies’ stockholders earlier this year, Northwest stockholders will receive 1.25 Delta shares for each Northwest share they own. Based on Delta’s closing stock price Wednesday, this exchange ratio is the equivalent of $9.99 per Northwest common share.

Both Delta and Northwest are among the carriers that serve Pittsburgh International Airport.

http://www.bizjournals.com/pittsburgh/stories/2008/10/27/daily34.html


Linkback - Delta Air Lines, Northwest Airlines complete merge
]]> 10/31/2008 8:14:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4971 4971 Last year we accepted an invitation to attend a presentation with Freedom Leisure Group in Patong on Phuket island, Thailand.

After an in depth presentation about Timelinx and their holiday club we deceded to join. Part of the deal was trading in our 2 unwanted weeks of timeshare at Fairways Club in Tenerife.
We took our time deciding and was not rushed into anything, in fact we couldn't see any reason not to join.

Did we do the right thing?

Yes, we no longer get bills for increasing maintanance fees, RCI mebership and exchange fees.
we have had 3 wounderful holidays at greatly reduced rates, which we cannot match anywhere on the internet.(trust us we tried)
We can take unlimited holidays both abroad and in Australia anytime we want as indeed all our family can.

Would we recommend Freedom Leisure Group and Timelinx.....

YES 100% in fact 3 of our friends have signed up and they are still our friends [:)]

Linkback - Timelinx, rid of our timeshare at last!!!(Con Job)
]]> 10/30/2008 3:00:10 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4970 4970
Three of them are in INDIA - GOA to be precise. They are (1) the ROYAL GOAN BEACH CLUB at HAATHI MAHAL, (2) the ROYAL GOAN BEACH CLUB at MONTERIO and (3) the ROYAL GOAN BEACH CLUB at ROYAL PALMS.

A further two are in INDONESIA - BALI to be precise. They are (1) the ROYAL BALI BEACH CLUB at CANDIDASA and (2) the ROYAL BALI BEACH CLUB at JIMBARAN BAY.

The final two new resorts are in THAILAND. The first of these is the ROYAL BELLA VISTA COUNTRY CLUB at CHIANG MAI and the other one is the ROYAL LIGHTHOUSE VILLAS at BOAT LAGOON (which overlooks Phuket's recreational marina).

So, now we are moving into Asia!

Linkback - NEW RESORT DESTINATIONS
]]> 10/29/2008 12:36:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4969 4969
Linkback - Renting a week at California suites
]]> 10/29/2008 11:35:25 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4968 4968
The International Air Transport Association (IATA), the body that represents most of the world's airlines, says that traffic declined 2.9 percent year over year in September, and doesn't see the situation getting better anytime soon. "It's the first monthly drop we've had since the 2003 SARS crisis," Steve Lott of the IATA told Wired.com. "And it's happening across all markets simultaneously. That's concerning to us."

IATA says that revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs), a standard metric used to measure airline traffic, dropped in every region around the world excluding Latin America. Load factor, the percentage of seats filled, dropped 4.4 percent. Lott says that although airlines dramatically cut capacity this year to cope with oil prices, the strategy doesn't seem to be filling planes as hoped. "In the US especially, airlines were extremely aggressive in cutting capacity," he says. But it seems like this has been insufficient."

"The deterioration in traffic is alarmingly fast paced and and widespread," said IATA's CEO Giovanni Bisignani after the September numbers were released. "Even the good news that the oil price has fallen to half its July peak is not enough to offset the impact of the drop in demand."

There are several elements of the current slowdown that have the IATA really freaked out. One is the timing of the numbers. They show that demand began weakening a full month before the brunt of the credit and stock market fiascos, and IATA anticipates that traffic will tumble further as the full impact of these events is felt.

Lott says a 7.7 percent decrease in year over year cargo traffic is also a big worry. "Cargo is seen as a bit of a leading indicator, especially in Asia," he says. "Weakness in cargo doesn't bode well for the larger economy."

He adds that IATA currently is projecting a 2009 industry loss of $4.1 billion, but that it will revise that number in December based on market conditions.

Interestingly, US airlines seem more optimistic about their prospects, at least in the short term. Delta, AirTrain and others are reporting strong holiday bookings, and expect fuller flights thanks to capacity cuts earlier this year.

But Lott doesn't see all that much to be cheerful about. "The next few months are going to be tough," he says. "We're in for a rough ride."

http://blog.wired.com/cars/2008/10/international-a.html


Linkback - Airlines See Big Traffic Drop-Expect More Bad News
]]> 10/29/2008 7:29:24 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4967 4967
As the credit crunch crisis continues, we find that a lot of people are refusing to let their holiday time be affected. Many are finding ways to continue to holiday, whilst just making a few subtle changes.

Hostels, coach holidays and cheap destinations are relishing in the boom of the credit crunch, as most people are downgrading their travel plans for cheaper alternatives.

Skiweekends.com has reported a 150% increase on bookings from the same time last year and has increased capacity by 40%. It is running coaches to two new resorts, Chamonix and Zermatt and the managing director has confirmed “we are quite simply having the best season we’ve ever had”. Prices start at £179 for a 3 day weekend and £239 for a week.

Hostels are also experiencing a boom, with Hostelbookers.com confirming an 83% increase on bookings from last year. Meanwhile, the Post Office has reported significant increases in foreign currency for cheaper destinations such as Egypt. Sales of Egyptian pounds were up 50% in September 2008.

At the other end of the market, the downturn is already taking effect. British Airways says the number of first and business class passengers it carried last month was down 8.6 per cent on the previous year. Ryanair, by contrast, reported a 20 per cent rise.*

Travel and Leisure Analyst Andrew Fitchie, “the companies say that no matter how bad things get, people will always keep their main holiday, but they might cut their second and short breaks, which I think is true but you will also see people trading down. Were not necessarily looking over a cliff edge, but we are heading into unchartered territory”

Most ski companies have some protection against any potential slumps, because the most profitable weeks are traditionally booked up a year in advance. Many are now reporting that January holidays, traditionally the hardest to sell, ad so the cheapest, are now proving to be one of the most popular. Therefore if lots of skiers switch to January holidays in an attempt to save cash, this could force the operators into offering big discounts and last minute deals at other times of the year.

Adults who stopped holidaying with their parents in their teens are reviving the family holiday in order to save money and have childcare on tap according to Saga Travel Insurance.

Pre credit crunch times, the majority of people went away with their partner (35%), and 50% of all kids stop holidaying with their parents by age 16. However, it seems, to save on costs and babysitting that family trips are making a real comeback. 44% of people have now resumed holidaying with their parents, with the average age now 29. Grandparent’s role in the family is now more vital than ever, with many families relying heavily on them to babysit, so the parents can juggle the finances better. Andrew Goodsell, Chief Executive of Saga commented 'Everybody has different priorities when deciding who to go on holiday with. It is encouraging that a positive outcome of the credit crunch hitting younger travellers could be that families, including grandparents, are getting to spend more time together.'

*Source The Observer, Sunday 12, 2008

http://www.jstfinancial.co.uk/articles/travel/155/Bargain-holidays-boom-despite-credit-crunch-crisis



Linkback - Bargain holidays boom despite credit crunch crisis
]]> 10/29/2008 7:27:09 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4966 4966
The Irish budget carrier’s decision will impact 10 routes that connect Valencia with the UK airports at East Midlands, Liverpool and Stansted – routes that are travelled by as many as 750,000 passengers annually.

Ryanair has said that the move, in effect from 4 November, was a result of the local authority failing to present a satisfactory scheme for promoting the Valencia airport, making it an unsustainable destination.

The carrier said that it would shifts its operations to another existing base.

Ryanair’s action comes at a time when the downturn in the airline industry shows no signs of easing.

British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair and Virgin have all made cuts to winter schedules and discontinued flying on unprofitable routes. As the cutbacks are being made, the industry is reporting figures that confirm aviation is in the midst of its worse crisis since the outbreak of SARS in 2004.

Even with millions of seats having been cut from carriers’ capacity, the fall in demand is even more significant.

For Europe, passenger numbers in September were down by 0.5 per cent from the same month last year, according to figures reported by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/ryanair-closes-base-at-valencia-5633806.html


Linkback - Ryanair closes base at Valencia
]]> 10/29/2008 7:24:06 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4965 4965 What, if any, is the impact of the countries financial crisis on the timeshare industry.

First we need to define the question. Are we talking sales of existing developments? New resorts getting off the drawing board? How owners use the timeshares they already own?

In conversations mostly off the record, I’ve been told sales are still excellent; that it’s expected they’ll be flat this year, but shouldn’t drop too much; and that they’ve been off by as much as 70%!

You can understand my confusion.

New developments are likely to slow, at least in the short run. Money is harder to come by, although that could end up being a cloud with a silver lining. New construction is likely to lag the recovery, creating a pent up demand that will certainly spur sales of existing programs.

Usage by existing owners is a little bit easier to predict. Much like the response to the terrorist attacks of 2001, save for a very brief drop in usage, resorts continued to operate at 90% occupancy rates, plus or minus.

What changed then, and is likely to be a similar response to unpredictable gas prices and (pardon the pun) soaring plane fares is who stayed where. East coast owners were less likely to travel to California or Hawaii, preferring to see the fall foliage change in New England. West coast owners were more likely to visit Disneyland in Anaheim rather than Disney World in Orlando.

What I really want to know, and you can keep it confidential if you’d like, is what are you seeing in the real world. I would like to hear from owners, developers, and other industry professionals.

If you are an owner, tell me what, if any, changes you will make in the way you use your timeshare.

If you are a developer, I would like your first hand report on the long and short-term impact on new properties. If you are on the front lines of sales, what are you seeing – is the reluctance to purchase stronger? Are they making smaller purchases? Is the kick rate higher?

Email me at timeshare.examiner@gmail.com - by Mark Silverman, S.F. Timeshare

Examinerhttp://www.examiner.com/x-773-SF-Timeshare-Examiner~y2008m10d28-The-finanancial-crisis-timeshare-owners-developers-and-sales




Linkback - The finanancial crisis
]]> 10/29/2008 7:23:03 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4964 4964
Planet Hollywood Worldwide Resorts will concentrate on expanding the brand in the casino resort industry, both domestically and internationally.

Planet Hollywood, famous for its string of celebrity endorsed restaurants, entered the casino business four years ago with the purchase of Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, formerly the Aladdin.

"With the success of our Las Vegas resort, the time is right to move forward with plans for rapid expansion of our brand," said Robert Earl, chairman of Planet Hollywood International. "Having Rich as the leader of Planet Hollywood Worldwide Resorts allows us to start our newest undertaking with a proven industry executive."

#8195;Earl said that Brown would be responsible for the development and expansion of the Planet Hollywood brand through various hospitality avenues, including casinos, hotels, timeshare and entertainment complexes.

#8195;He added that the new company’s strategy includes licensing, acquisitions and management of casino/entertainment properties.

"I am thrilled to be a part of this experience as we build the Planet Hollywood brand worldwide," Brown said. "Joining the Planet Hollywood team provides me the opportunity to take a great brand and leverage what we have been able to achieve in Las Vegas and other markets."

Brown brings a broad range of gaming experience to his new position. Most recently he held the position of president and chief executive officer of American Casino and Entertainment, which operated resort casinos in Las Vegas, Laughlin and Atlantic City before they were sold for more than $1.4 billion.

Prior to American Casino and Entertainment, Brown held executive positions with Harrah’s Entertainment, Hilton Gaming and the New York Racing Association.

http://www.gamingtoday.com/industry-news/story.bv?storyid=18617


Linkback - Planet Hollywood goes global
]]> 10/29/2008 7:18:36 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4963 4963
Does anyone have any info they can give me about RealEscape?

This is a Co in Mijas, Spain that have contacted me with an offer on my CLC Timeshare. They are doing all the talking and it sounds good BUT... again, want money up front to continue with the buyer that is lined up.
They have sent to me, a copy of an example form but is does not have all the right Co Headed Address etc. Frankly, although I want to sell my floating red week with CLC, I smell a rat!

Can anyone offer me some advice please.

Jarvy

Linkback - RealEscape
]]> 10/28/2008 5:53:07 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4962 4962
As I said in other topics I didn´t pay the money for the year 2008. - So my week ( value € 30 000) has been taken away. I looked for responsible people and found Mr.Horst Hummel from Austria. So I started to accuse him on the internet of probable financial fraud in the case of Timeshare. So I got accused of damaging his reputation - Now I should pay € 22 000.
At the moment I´m looking for other injured people to submit the names to court.
If you have questions, just ask.
I would be very thankful if you would help me in that way.

Greetings

Linkback - Injured persons of Chayofa - please contact me
]]> 10/28/2008 4:41:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4961 4961





Linkback - Suggestions
]]> 10/27/2008 7:12:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4960 4960
Points = money !

Timesharetalk is a free site. However, as with many things in this world today, it does cost money to run. Servers, applications, bandwidth, development - it all costs money.

Unlike other web sites, we do not charge for membership, we rely on advertising revenue and donations to help run the site and develop new areas and projects for the future for the benefit of our members. To help with the running costs of the site, we operate the memberships in two states; Normal member and subscribed member.

To find out more on the benefits of being a subscribed member or to subscribe, click [url="http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/points.asp"]here[/url]





Linkback - Please read first
]]> 10/27/2008 7:03:59 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4959 4959
They have a London address but I cannot trace them to this address. The phone call today was from an Internatioanal number. They say they have a buyer,even namimg the name of an international investor. As usual they want money up front, which equals no way, this time they call it a Legal debenture. Has anyone any details/knowledge of this lot. Their web site is : www. thepremiumgroup.com. Any help with this one would be appreciated.

GM

Linkback - The Premium Group
]]> 10/27/2008 2:12:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4958 4958
A conference call between that White House Counsel and a select few CEO-level ARDA board members was held on Oct. 10, during which the Counsel asked for a one-page summary of the industry’s size, paper terms and performance, delinquencies, etc. You can see the resulting document HERE. http://streettalkblog.com/wp-images/ardaletter2.jpg

The reason I’m making it public is that this is probably the most serious crisis we have ever faced as an industry, and I want all of you who man the front lines in sales, marketing and everyone else to be aware of the possible repercussions if the crisis is not solved quickly. Timeshare owners should also be cognizant of how this might affect them.

ARDA is (correctly) explaining to the Fed that due to the cash intensive nature of the industry “though timeshare sales continue to be made the present credit market dislocation has created a very serious and immediate liquidity crisis that threatens the industry’s continued viability. The timeshare industry is literally selling itself out of business by generating consumer loans through sales without being able to monetize them.” As a result, the industry is currently in the process of substantial layoffs involving thousands of jobs and is curtailing real estate investments. This will have a significant impact that will reverberate throughout the national economy.

What the industry is requesting under EESA (the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act) at this early stage is Federal assistance to open frozen credit markets in the form of a federal guarantee of timeshare investment grade paper in exchange for a credit insurance fee paid to the US Government. There is no guarantee that the request for assistance will bear fruit, but at least the Fed is listening and has asked for more detail.

It’s good to know that ARDA is using its considerable heft and expertise to lobby for the industry, but that’s its job and I expect nothing less. I believe the industry will survive this crisis, but I also believe we are in for rougher times than many of us presently imagine.

http://streettalkblog.com/?p=2982#more-2982


Linkback - TS Industry Seeks Help From the Federal Government
]]> 10/27/2008 6:55:53 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4957 4957 MEMBERSHIP FEES PAID 2008 . OPEN TO ALL OFFERS . QUICK SALE

Linkback - SELLING CLC POINTS
]]> 10/26/2008 7:41:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4956 4956 I have 800 points clc vacation membership for sale , transfer fees to be paid my purchaser. open to all offers . 2008 membership fees paid .

maurasj

Linkback - clc vacation points for sale
]]> 10/26/2008 7:20:36 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4955 4955 Guess who it is:



More of the picture to be revealed daily - the more that is revealed, the less the reward.

Today it is worth 6 points!




Linkback - Guess who it is - 26 October
]]> 10/26/2008 7:04:49 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4954 4954
My 2,500 dri points, all maintenance fees paid up to date, 2,500 banked onto next year and last years still available for use this year are being offered free, all you need to do is pay all the costs associated with the transfer!!!!

email me at alf.wayliner(at)btopenworld.com



Linkback - 2500 DRI points to give away
]]> 10/26/2008 12:08:55 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4953 4953





Linkback - Don't forget ....
]]> 10/25/2008 9:57:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4952 4952 Last time we stayed at Matchroom in April we spoke to other owners who semed to share our views.When we spoke to one of the reps who we have known for a long time it was hinted that Heritage were looking in to allowing owners to book bonus wks directly with them. However we have not heard anything further from them about being able to do this.
So we would like to hear the views of other Matchroom owners.Perhaps it needs lots of owners to express this grievance to the management and suggest that in the present economic climate and poor euro exchange rate that many of us may have to consider forfeiting our week for the coming year and not paying this next years maintenance. Please let us KNOW YOUR VIEWS!!
Many thanks Jan and Richard Grover, Poole, Dorset.



Linkback - Problem booking bonus weeks for Matchroom
]]> 10/25/2008 8:15:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4951 4951
On Thursday, the European Parliament vote was 361 to 16 in favour of a resolution that required EU authorities to conduct a complete study on health and privacy implications of the new body-scanning technology.

The scanning system allows security personnel to view the outline of passengers’ bodies through their clothing. Supporters of the technology claim that it makes it easier to detect any hidden objects, including liquids and weapons made of plastic that traditional metal detectors do not pick up.

Body scanners are being introduced at several airports in the US, and have been tested in other countries, including EU members Britain and the Netherlands.

Civil liberties groups are saying that the new scanners conduct a ‘virtual strip search.’

Philip Bradbourn, a British Conservative who is a member of the EU assembly, stressed that the new technology should not be introduced as a routine screening measure, but that it could be used in cases involving heightened suspicion.

Bradbourn said that although there may be a benefit in having the new scanners in place at airports they should only be used as a last resort and a substitute for a necessary strip search.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/meps-vote-against-airport-body-scanners-5633798.html


Linkback - MEPs vote against airport body scanners
]]> 10/25/2008 4:30:43 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4950 4950
It is anticipated that test flights will be run in 2012 and executives at the US-based company, Aerion, are saying that they have 50 parties interested in the new aircraft, all having paid a £150,000 deposit.

Aerion spokesman, Jeff Miller, said: “Flight times in general will be reduced about 40 percent. Business and government leaders will be able to travel more in pursuit of opportunity. And they will feel a lot better when they step off the aeroplane.”

The price of the aircraft is projected at £47.5 million, and Miller says that operating costs per nautical mile will be around the same as for a Boeing 747.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/new-supersonic-jet-in-development-phase-5633801.html


Linkback - New supersonic jet in development phase
]]> 10/25/2008 4:29:33 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4949 4949
The study released by the travel retailer suggests that travelling on holiday with an infant requires an additional 14-15kg of essential items.

Only two of the seven main airlines used by UK holidaymakers make allowance for additional baggage for infants, forcing parents to pay substantial charges for excess baggage.

The most infant-friendly carriers were Virgin and British Airways, with both offering an infant baggage allowance in addition to their normal baggage allowance of 23 kg.

These same airlines had the highest excess baggage charges, however, ranging from £30 to £120 per bag.

Ryanair was the worst, in terms of family baggage policies, as its baggage allowance is only 15kg and no provisions for infants are made. Parents needing to take along extra items for their infants are charged £12 per kg.

Co-operative Travel is asking carriers to change their baggage allowance policies to be more favourable toward families travelling with infants.

The travel retailer warned travellers that some airlines, such as Ryanair, don’t permit the pooling or sharing of allowances by passengers, even when they are travelling together on the same booking.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/families-with-children-pay-highest-airline-excess-baggage-charges-5633794.html


Linkback - Families with children pay highest airline excess
]]> 10/25/2008 4:28:23 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4948 4948
Bluegreen (NYSE: BXG) announced in September that it would extend, until Nov. 15, the period during which Diamond Resorts would have an exclusive right of negotiation to acquire all of the Boca Raton-based resort company’s common stock.

Diamond Resorts has asked that the exclusivity agreement remain in place pursuant to its previously disclosed terms, but has indicated that it may propose an alternative transaction.

However, Bluegreen said Diamond Resorts has not assured it that such a proposal is coming, or whether Bluegreen will accept one.

Bluegreen shares closed Thursday at $3.56. The 52-week high was $12.54 on July 22. The 52-week low was $2.80 on Thursday.

http://www.bizjournals.com/southflorida/stories/2008/10/13/daily48.html


Linkback - Bluegreen Corp. acquisition on hold
]]> 10/25/2008 4:24:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4947 4947
Ian

Linkback - 6500 points to give away
]]> 10/24/2008 10:52:23 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4946 4946
http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/classifieds.asp

It's free !

Linkback - Don't forget
]]> 10/24/2008 6:11:32 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4945 4945
Eveything else paid in full. Offers?

Linkback - 8000 points for sale
]]> 10/24/2008 1:51:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4944 4944

Linkback - GET RID OF TIMESHARES FOREVER
]]> 10/23/2008 11:52:38 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4943 4943
Linkback - Upgrading
]]> 10/23/2008 9:23:49 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4942 4942 I wanted to book another week but Anfi have told me that i can't use 2010 points until jan 2009.
Will there be any 2 Beds left to book through Anfi as it is school holidays or how can i get a additional week ( 32 or 34 )

Linkback - BOOKING ANOTHER WEEK AT ANFI
]]> 10/23/2008 12:07:38 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4941 4941
Linkback - next years fees
]]> 10/22/2008 10:16:55 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4940 4940
About 1.5 million people across Europe have bought timeshares, which provide access to holiday homes for a certain period every year.

But campaigners have long argued that too many customers have been tricked and conned.

The new rules will give consumers a 14-day right of withdrawal and also increase the obligations on traders.

The sellers will have to provide a list of standard information, telling buyers exactly what is on offer - and what isn't.

A failure to offer such a list would extend the get-out clause to three months.

An overwhelming majority of MEPs voted in favour of the directive in Strasbourg on Wednesday. There were 674 votes for it, 11 against and 10 abstentions.

Closing loopholes

"With this new law we are giving consumers additional protections, new rights and we are plugging the gaps, the loopholes the scam-merchants have been operating," British Labour MEP Arlene McCarthy, who chairs the parliament's Consumer Protection Committee, told the BBC.

"Consumers will enjoy the same rights, whether they are buying in Varna on the Black Sea or Valencia on the Costa Blanca. They will now have a 14-day right of withdrawal, which means that if they had too much sun, or sangria or slivovitz, they can simply walk away and say 'I am not interested'."

The Timeshare Consumers Association in the UK, and its sister organisations across Europe, are welcoming the vote, but are frustrated the right of withdrawal is only a fortnight.

"These con merchants can spot the white knees and red faces of tourists a mile off - and for those holidaymakers that leave their brains at home, two weeks' grace might not be much use. If they sign up in the first few days of their holiday it could be too late by the time they're home and have a chance to think about it," says Sandy Grey, the association chairman.

National governments now have a maximum of two years to ensure the directive is incorporated into law.

Mr Grey has concerns Spain - where hundreds of thousands of Europeans have timeshares - may act slowly in doing this. He is urging the Spanish government to prove him wrong, in what is claimed would be a boost not just to consumers but to reputable timeshare dealers across the continent.


Linkback - EU aims to curb timeshare scams
]]> 10/22/2008 2:44:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4939 4939
6% inflation.

5-5% vat type charge.-this is new-it appears that up to the present time that vat was not normally charged on timeshare. Law is changing.

20% to take account of decrease of Sterling against the Euro.

Is that over 30% approx. or am I reading this incorrectly?

Billyboy.

Linkback - Palm Beach Club - Management Fees 2009
]]> 10/21/2008 8:38:24 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4938 4938
Last year we had a significant increase of approx 14% followed by an additional Levy.

The reason given that this rise was so high was for improvements to the portfolio. That high rise in essence has been compounded into our Management Fees from last year on - in other words - rather than getting just a 5% increase which would be to keep the status quo, the rise gave them that extra 9% in cash terms every year from that date forwards from us.

We were advised that the Levy was a one off to counter the strength of the Euro against the pound.

Many of us understood the reasoning for last years rises - and went so far as to defend such rises as we could see the light at the end of the tunnel.

This year is another year altogether.

Lets look at what "Joe the Plumber" in the UK is currently facing:

• Inflation running at over 5%
  
• Businesses struggling and increasing unemployment.
  
• Fuel Bills which have gone up in some cases by 30%
• High levels of house repossessions
• The list goes on...

It would be my earnest hope that the powers that be take all these things into consideration before compounding peoples problems with an excessive rise in Management Fees...

I do not post this to cause trouble - merely putting down a marker for myself and expressing my concerns early.





Linkback - Management Fees 2009
]]> 10/21/2008 8:27:50 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4937 4937 Does anyone have any information on a resale company called Selling Time?
I have been approached with the usual 'spiel' also requesting a 1200 Euro holding bond.[V] by an English speaking girl called Louise Wilson who states she's married with 2 young girls and wouldn't scam anyone. Supposedly in business 13+ yrs.
Any info would be greatly appreciated.



Linkback - Selling Time
]]> 10/21/2008 2:50:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4936 4936 Have found both companies helpful and boats reasonable.
This year we had two weeks from Blackwater Meadow on the Welsh borders on a Canaltime boat. Wonderful scernery, impressive aquaducts. Then took a return trip to Birmingham, which was also good. Canal community helpful and friendly as ever, even to novices.

When we don't use our weeks ( we have 6 in all ) we rent then out via www.canalbarge.co.uk for Shakespeare Classic or www.narrowboat-holidays.org.uk for any Narrowboat timeshares.
I set the sites up, they work, other Narrowboat Timeshare weeks can be advertised here too.


Linkback - Narrowboat Holidays
]]> 10/20/2008 3:28:21 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4935 4935 More recently i started www.narrowboat-holiday.org.uk to broaden the service to other Narrrowboat timeshare weeks - notably Canaltime

The first site had a success rate oy 84% last year in selling advertised weeks, this year 77% so far.
results for previous years available on site.

I find this a viable alternative to RCI
Currently we have 4 weeks with Shakespeare Classic Line and two with Canaltime and regularly enjoy family holidays with both companies, with very few problems

Linkback - Timeshare Rentals for Narrowboat weeks
]]> 10/20/2008 2:00:50 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4934 4934
Linkback - The Sales Deck - Geneva
]]> 10/19/2008 9:10:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4933 4933 Guess who it is:



More of the picture to be revealed daily - the more that is revealed, the less the reward.

Today it is worth 4 points!



Linkback - Guess who it is - 19 October
]]> 10/19/2008 8:40:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4932 4932
The gallery offered a full-size model with a living room and kitchen styled after Central Florida Investments’ timeshare properties.

The Houston location, which opened in 2004, was the first off-site sales center for Orlando-based Central Florida Investments. The company owns Westgate Resorts, which operated the preview gallery.

According to documents filed with the Texas Workforce Commission, Central Florida Investments chose to close the Houston location late last month because the company has “experienced an unforeseen business emergency brought on by the collapse of the credit markets. Westgate has been unable to access its regular and customary borrowing sources and, as a result, does not presently have the cash flow to support its operations in their current form without these staff reductions.”

David Siegel, CEO of Westgate Resorts, announced plans in late September to shutter much of his sales operations and lay off hundreds due to his inability to get credit to keep cash flow moving

Ed Hastry, president of the National Timeshare Owners Association, says the timeshare industry is in its worst shape in 20 years.

“It’s following the downturn of the housing market,” Hastry says. “People are watching their pennies.”

Hastry explains that timeshare owners must pay an annual maintenance fee in order to return to the property, and some owners are finding it difficult to even cover the fee. He adds that some people also aren’t willing to pay the travel costs to get to their timeshare locations.

“As soon as the economy turns around and gas is less than $2 again, I think we’ll see a big turnaround in this industry because people will have more discretionary income,” he says.

http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2008/10/13/daily44.html


Linkback - Westgate closes Houston office
]]> 10/19/2008 7:12:50 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4931 4931
The move by TUI Travel – the holiday giant that includes Thomson and First Choice among its 89 brands and serves 7m British tourists every year – means serial complainers will be barred from making bookings.

“We’re only talking about a tiny percentage of customers who are persistent troublemakers,” said the firm’s customer director Tim Williamson, “but we’re keeping a list of them. If they try to book another trip, they’ll be told that we are unable to meet their expectations. There’s always been a philosophy that the customer is right, but these people will never be happy.” The company would not say how much money was paid out to customers who complained.

Black books are by no means work. So they complain and, if we accept we are in the wrong, we settle and they get next year’s holiday free.”

Holiday rep Andy Williams, who has been working in Mediterranean resorts for 11 years, said the whingers were a common problem. “I had a client who went berserk because he found a bare wire in his apartment. The mains cable had been ripped from the wall and he was quoting health-and-safety law, but nobody had complained previously.

"We couldn’t prove whether this gentleman had done it, but a colleague recognised him as someone who’d made a similar complaint last year.”

First Choice said the cult of complaint was growing fast. “The internet has made things worse,” said a source. “There is so much advice and support online – most of it telling people that if they make enough of a fuss, we’ll pay up. The truth is that we hardly ever pay out, but we waste a lot of time dealing with the complainers.”

“We act for thousands of clients due to sickness or injury every year and I’m not aware that bogus claims are a significant issue,” said Clive Garner of the travel-law specialist Irwin Mitchell. “

Operators should concentrate their efforts on ensuring that the services and facilities they provide are safe and uncommon in the holiday industry, but TUI is the first operator to make its policy public.

“We get customers who deliberately book a ‘new-build’ hotel because they know they will find some small cause for complaint,” said Williamson. “The staff may not know their way around, the lights might not up to adequate standards.” work or there may be ongoing building

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/travel/news/article4962668.ece


Linkback - Thomson bans serial complainers from booking again
]]> 10/19/2008 7:09:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4930 4930
Consumers across the EU are set to benefit from greater holiday protection - when they buy and resell timeshare holidays, or timeshare-like holidays on cruise boats, canal boats, caravans and "discount holiday clubs" - under new rules to be voted by the European Parliament on 22 October. The aim of the proposed Directive is to further boost consumer confidence in the Timeshare industry (worth over €10.5 billion and responsible for more than 40,000 jobs across the EU) and to eliminate the rogue traders who cause problems for consumers and bring legitimate operators into disrepute. Up to now, EU rules on Timeshare have given consumers basic rights with regard to clear information, the right to withdraw and change their mind, and a ban on deposits. The new Directive which the European Parliament will vote on next Wednesday, aims to tackle loopholes in the current rules. Most importantly, it would extend the scope of the 1994 EU Timeshare Directive to cover new products which have emerged on the market – like discount holiday clubs, and "timeshare-like" holidays on cruise boats, canal boats and caravans. It would also extend protection to important areas like timeshare resale and exchange clubs. The new rules would ensure that consumers are equally well protected across the EU and will create a level playing field in the market for timeshare and certain other holiday-related products.
What is timeshare?

Timeshare is the right to spend a period of time (i.e. one or more weeks) in a holiday property for a specified period of the year for three years or longer. Timeshare holidays are very popular in many EU countries. For example, the UK, Sweden, Germany, Italy and Spain, have some of the highest number of consumers buying timeshare holidays. Spain, Portugal, Germany, Italy and France have substantial domestic timeshare industries. Countries like the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland show a growing market for consumers buying timeshare holidays.

The 1994 current Directive protects consumers' interests by:

Giving buyers the right to information in a prospectus before signing a contract.

Seeking to prevent 'pressure selling' by allowing for a cooling-off period (right of withdrawal) of at least 10 days.

Prohibiting operators from taking deposits from buyers during the cooling-off period.
Why did the Commission revise the current law?

Since the adoption of the Directive in 1994, there have been major developments in the marketplace. New products and contracts have been developed that fall outside the scope of the legislation. Therefore, consumers who buy them do not get the same rights or levels of protection. For instance, the new products may allow the consumer to use different kinds of property (e.g. cruise boats, caravans or canal boats), or the contracts may last for less than three years. A further problem is that the re-sale and exchange of timeshare schemes are not covered by the existing rules.

What will the new Directive cover?

The new Directive will replace the old one with a modern, simplified and coherent framework, covering timeshare and long-term holiday products, as well as exchange and resale. The proposal will extend the scope of current rules to cover:

Shorter term contracts – contracts of less than three years will now be covered.
Moveable property – the rules will cover contracts for timeshare on property such as canal boats, caravans or cruise ships.

Long-term holiday products – these include holiday discount clubs, where consumers pay for instance 3,000 euro to get a password to a website, where they are promised "huge discounts" which are often misleading, on holiday accommodation, flights and rental cars. With the new rules, the traders will not be able to request the entire payment for the membership of such clubs upfront; consumers will be able to pay instead by yearly instalments.

Resale of timeshare products – many timeshare owners are approached by commercial agents who ask for a fee in return for selling their timeshare.

Exchange of timeshare products – some timeshare owners pay an additional fee to join an exchange club, where they can swap their week in e.g. the Canaries for a week in the Alps. Additional information requirements should ensure they get a realistic picture of the offer and they do not end up being disappointed.

The lack of regulation of long-term holiday products, re-sale and exchange schemes means that they are not covered by rules on cooling-off periods, deposits and consumer information. Consequently, consumers who sign up under pressure have little scope to change their mind. The new Directive will enhance consumer rights in the market for timeshare and long-term holiday products, and create a level playing field for the sellers of these products.

For information: http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/cons_int/safe_shop/timeshare/index_en.htm

http://7thspace.com/headlines/295620/better_protection_for_holiday_makers_european_parliament_to_vote_on_timeshare_22nd_october_2008.html


Linkback - European Parliament to vote on Timeshare 22nd Oct
]]> 10/19/2008 7:05:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4929 4929
And hundreds more UK tourists, due to be flown out on Friday by Majorca-based LTE International, were able to take up their holidays as planned after replacement flights were found for them.

UK holiday company Cosmos said about 350 of its holidaymakers due to travel to Tenerife on Friday with LTE would instead fly out with UK holiday airline Monarch.

Cosmos added that about 350 Britons due to return from Tenerife to the UK on Friday with LTE were now flying back to Manchester airport with Monarch.

Thomas Cook also arranged packages using LTE. The company said passengers on four flights on Friday - two to Tenerife and two returning from Tenerife - had been switched to Thomas Cook Airlines' services.

A Thomas Cook spokesman added: "We are currently working to re-protect the remaining flights affected by LTE's closure and will inform customers of any changes to their flights as soon as possible."

The Cosmos spokeswoman, who was also speaking for flight-only operator Avro, said: "Passengers due to depart with LTE in the forthcoming weeks will be contacted in due course as soon as alternative flight arrangements have been made.

"Due to our own ATOL (Air Travel Organisers' Licensing) protection and Abta (travel organisation) membership all of our customers are assured of being provided with alternative flight arrangements (albeit with some delays). Where this will not be possible they will receive a full refund."

LTE, which included Norwich among its UK-departing airports, said on its website: "We wish to inform you that due to the financial situation of the company, which makes it difficult to meet the operational expenses in the next days, we have had to suspend our charter and scheduled operations.

"LTE is doing everything to minimise the impact of this suspension of services on its clients and providers. After 20 years operating with maximum dedication to our clients it just was not possible to avoid this situation given world events lately."

http://ukpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5gtgZAKIbyC7IkqUITH2jiCLpbNdg


Linkback - Holiday rescue as airline goes bust
]]> 10/18/2008 9:49:11 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4928 4928
THANKS

Linkback - Selling Timeshare
]]> 10/17/2008 11:47:23 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4927 4927
A company under the name of Planet Vacations contacted a Newquay woman this week, asking her to participate in a timeshare scheme.

After she agreed to the proposal, the company asked the lady to pay for the postage, totalling £9.84.

However, a police spokesman said the company took far more from the woman.

"She gave the company her bank details, so they could charge for the postage.

"But when she then checked her bank account, she found that instead of taking £9.84, they had actually taken £984.

"When we searched for the company on the internet, we found that there were many blogs and listings stating that this company were actually not trustworthy and that they have nothing to do with timeshares."

As a result, Newquay Police are warning timeshare owners not to be drawn in by the scam, and never to release their bank details to a 'cold caller'.

The police spokesman added: "We are obviously now looking into tracing the money to see where it has gone.

"But these things are often difficult and the money usually goes abroad."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Newquay Police on 08452 777444, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, quoting crime reference number GN/08/2398.

http://www.thisiscornwall.co.uk/homepagenews/Timeshare-company-untrustworthy/article-407623-detail/article.html


Linkback - Planet Vacations - Untrustworthy
]]> 10/17/2008 6:47:44 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4926 4926
It may be the world's first resort to incorporate a working taro loi, water slides erupting from a faux volcano, and Disney characters doing the backstroke in its pool. Not to mention steel roof designs that look like pili grass hale.

Walt Disney Parks & Resorts offered a sneak peek of plans for its first-ever Hawaii resort today. Groundbreaking on the resort—for now, dubbed Disney Vacation Club Resort Hawaii—is slated for Nov. 13 in west Oahu’s Ko Olina Resort & Marina, with an opening slated for 2011.

The resort will include 350 hotel rooms and 480 vacation villas, the latter dedicated to Disney Vacation Club timeshare members. Plus an 18,000 square-foot spa, 8,000 square feet of convention and banquet space, two restaurants, a kids club and a wedding lawn. Water features include an inland saltwater lagoon, quiet pool and a water park with slides, rapids and waterfalls. The resort also claims one of the crescent lagoons along the Ko Olina shoreline.

Disney plans to market toward luxury family travel. The company declined to reveal the project’s cost and room pricing. Renderings of timeshare units and hotel rooms were not available.

“There are always economic ups and downs. We have confidence in Hawaii as a continued family tourist destination for the long-term,” said Walt Disney Parks & Resorts chairman Jay Rasulo.

Disney first announced the project in October 2007, after purchasing the 21-acre Ko Olina property the resort will occupy. The Hawaii resort will be the largest of three Disney Vacation Club properties, and the first to combine hotel and timeshare offerings. The family-travel-oriented Disney Vacation Club claims more than 350,000 members worldwide.

“We ask our Disney Vacation club family members all the time, ‘Where do you think you would like your next home?' And every time, Hawaii always stacks up in the Top 5,” said Djuan Rivers, vice president of Disney Vacation Club Resort Hawaii.

http://www.hawaiimagazine.com/blogs/hawaii_today/2008/10/16/Disney_first_Hawaii_resort_opening


Linkback - Disney's first Hawaii resort aims for 2011 opening
]]> 10/17/2008 6:46:03 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4925 4925
Flight recorder data from the McDonnell Douglas MD-82 confirmed that the plane had faulty wing flaps and that the warning system to alert the pilot had failed, according to a preliminary report from Spain's Civil Aviation Accident Investigation Commission.

The MD-82, carrying 10,130 litres of jet fuel, was propelled across a kilometer of scrub before it burst into flames, in the country's worst aviation disaster in 25 years.

The two mechanics, along with the head of Spanair maintenance at the Madrid Airport, are under investigation in the enquiry launched by a Madrid court, which is occurring simultaneously with a public works ministry investigation, the court spokesman indicated.

Under consideration in the investigation by the court are 154 possible manslaughter offences and 18 relating to bodily harm caused by negligence.

No spokesman for the airline was available for comment.

The investigation committee comprises two engineers, two mechanics and two pilots, who are specialists in the MD-82.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/mechanics-targeted-in-spanair-crash-investigation-5633774.html


Linkback - Mechanics targeted in Spanair crash investigation
]]> 10/17/2008 6:44:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4924 4924
Airport transport security is running a trial of a new "X-ray backscatter" body scanner, which critics have described a conducting a virtual strip search.

The body scanner emits a low energy X-ray which reveals metallic and other objects that a person might hide underneath their clothing. It also reveals body features.

Participation in testing the scanners is voluntary during the trial, which is being conducted to determine how the new scanners affect passenger flow through security.

It does see through clothing, but it's not a photographic image, it's a low-energy X-ray that reflects off the skin, explained the Office of Transport Security's general manager, Cheryl Johnson.

It will show the private parts of people, but what we've decided is that we're not going to blur those out, because it severely limits the detection capabilities.

She clarified: It is possible to see genitals and breasts while they're going through the machine, though.

Johnson stressed that measures were in place, however, to address privacy concerns. The faces are automatically blurred and it's only a chalk-style outline, it's not as invasive as some of the other equipment that we've got, she added.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/airport-scanners-blur-faces-but-not-privates-5633777.html


Linkback - Airport scanners blur faces but not privates
]]> 10/17/2008 6:42:25 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4923 4923
There are the usual type of daytime activities organised like aquafit, bowling, darts, pool, quizzes etc. and it was enjoyable just to relax around the pool and join in some of the activities when we were able to have a chat to the other guests.

We had a meal at the Chinese Buffet, the Indian Restaurant and another restaurant which I forget the name of but we dined four evenings at the Pearly Grey – they had a barbecue evening which was 12 Euros and a Canarian evening at 13 Euros but only 22 Euros if you booked both at the same time. They served a large plateful of food which was very good, just the one course, and you had a drink included at both of them. On the other two evenings we had a four course Sunday Roast at 17.50 Euros which included soup, a large selection of salads, main course and a selection of sweets, all of which you could help yourselves to. It was 18.50 Euros for the four course International Evening with soup, again a lovely selection of salads, and seven different International dishes and you could help yourself to a bit of each, and then sweets. No drink was included with these meals but I could recommend all of them.

Getting a sun lounger was never a problem and there always seemed to be some available even later in the day.

In the evening there was a quiz and perhaps a bit of audience participation starting at 9 pm and then there were some good artists on, normally about 10 pm followed by dancing and karaoke until 12. Not being into living it up until the early hours we were quite content to have a nice meal and then go in the bar for the entertainment.

Although there were people staying there for two weeks and some for three weeks, we did feel that a week had been long enough for us and were happy to move on to the Paradise Club at Torviscas for our second week, but we had enjoyed our week there very much.


Linkback - Pearly Grey Ocean Club, Tenerife
]]> 10/17/2008 2:23:16 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4922 4922
FOR SALE - surplus to requirements

Two-bedroom/two bathroom apartment at Las Farolas, a Silver Crown resort. First floor apartment not far from swimming pool and main facilities of resort. A good sized apartment with balconies to front and rear - sea views to front and countryside to rear. A small, well maintained resort with friendly and helpful staff. Good restaurant and lounge bar with some entertainment. Small mini market and other restaurant nearby. Use of CLC main site facilities at their main resorts closer to Fuengirola.

Week 28 (mid July)in Segovia block.

Price: Now £400 ono including transfer fees

Contact Dave or Sue on 00 44 1792873953


Linkback - Reduced price timeshare on Costa Del Sol
]]> 10/17/2008 10:05:19 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4921 4921
Linkback - G8 Services
]]> 10/16/2008 5:46:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4920 4920 I have 3000 points left for 2008 and 16,500 points for 2009. All of the 2008 fees have been paid.

The only stipulation I will make is that the buyer pays the transfer fee.

Any offer considered.

Superref.

Linkback - Quick Sale Needed
]]> 10/16/2008 5:35:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4919 4919 Just been offered a choice of 2 swaps for my 1401 Club la Costa points.
One is with Seasons and the other with Costa Sal.
Has any one come across either of these and if so what do you think of them. Is it a good deal or not.
If anyone can give me an honest opinion I would be greatful.

Regards

butchers boy

Linkback - club la costa/exchange
]]> 10/16/2008 11:20:47 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4918 4918
Attorney General Tom Corbett filed consumer-protection lawsuits against four subsidiaries of the Florida-based Bluegreen Corp., an $8 billion business that launched an aggressive and deceptive statewide campaign to market time-shares, said Nils Frederiksen, Corbett's deputy press secretary.

"It's the largest and most wide-reaching, vacation-related scheme that anyone here can recall," said Frederiksen, who cited the $100 million plus as the likely loss to Pennsylvanians.

The company, which set up kiosks at most area malls and festivals, operates full-time sales centers in King of Prussia and Hershey, Frederiksen said. People were contacted, usually by phone, and told they were "prize" winners and could collect their award at the sales facility after a purported 90-minute sales seminar that sometimes lasted more than five hours, he said.

"Bluegreen is currently investigating the matter and is not able to comment on it at this time," said Lisa Thornhill, director of corporate communications.

Frederiksen said more than 5,700 Pennsylvania residents purchased Bluegreen time-shares after receiving misleading information and without being told of their right to cancel the contract within five days. Many residents were phoned repeatedly in violation of Pennsylvania's do-not-call list, he said.

"There may be some of the 5,700 who are happy with their purchase; if they are, we wish them the best," said Frederiksen, adding that many people were distressed to receive a 300-page, three-ring binder of terms after signing the sales agreement.

Although the average price of a time-share was a little more than $20,000, the company made more than double that amount in financing and hidden fees, Frederiksen said.

He said the investigation began in July 2007 after a spate of complaints regarding misleading prizes such as airline tickets or free gas. For example, "four free airline tickets" were actually booklets that offered two tickets with each high-end hotel room booked for an extended stay in selected cities, he said.

When residents showed up in King of Prussia or Hershey to claim their awards, they were subjected to high-pressure sales tactics and phony claims that prices were about to skyrocket, Frederiksen said.

"It's hard to imagine a consumer-protection law they didn't violate," he said.

The suit, which seeks restitution for misled consumers and thousands of dollars in fines, names Bluegreen Corp., Bluegreen Resorts, Great Vacations Destinations Inc., and Bluegreen Vacations Unlimited Inc.

It also seeks an injunction from the court to end the alleged illegal business practices; a hearing date has not been scheduled yet, Frederiksen said.

Consumers with complaints are being asked to call the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-441-2555 or register online at www.attorneygeneral.gov.

In 2005, Bluegreen ranked No. 48 on Fortune's list of America's 100 Fastest Growing Companies, according to Bluegreen's Web site. The company posted $3.4 million in profits for the quarter ended June 30, with time-share owners topping 190,000, up more than 3,000 from March, according to news reports.

http://www.philly.com/philly/news/local/20081015_Pennsylvania_alleges__100_million_time-share_scam.html


Linkback - Pennsylvania alleges $100 million time-share scam
]]> 10/16/2008 7:30:08 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4917 4917
At a special meeting held at the Belsfield Hotel in Bowness, an overwhelming 88 per cent of the members of the Windermere Marina Timeshare Owners Club (WMTOC) voted in favour of ending the club, freeing themselves from an ever-mounting financial burden.

The assets will be transfered to Windermere Marina Village, the club's management company, in return for a considerable package of benefits.

WMV’s other business interests are unaffected by the closure of WMTOC.

http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/news/3758387.Timeshare_owners_give_up_rights_in_Windermere_/


Linkback - Timeshare owners give up rights in Windermere
]]> 10/16/2008 7:28:41 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4916 4916
Worst hit by the escalating violence are the border areas where drug cartels are at war over the control of key routes into the U.S. Violence has increased throughout Mexico this year, leading to the deaths of 3,500, including civilians.

“Increased levels of violence make it imperative that travelers understand the risks of travel to Mexico,” according to a new State Department travel alert on Mexico.

In a 24-hour period, 11 were killed in attacks in Chihuahua State, including a former commander in the police force, said a spokesman for the attorney general’s office of the state on Tuesday.

The state of Chihuahua has become a flashpoint in a turf war between drug cartels, and over 1,000 people have been killed in Ciudad Juarez, a border city in the state, this year alone.

“The situation in Ciudad Juarez is of special concern,” commented the State Department about the city on the Mexico-U.S. border, located across from El Paso, Texas.

“A recent series of muggings near the US Consulate General in Ciudad Juarez has targeted applicants for US visas,” it continued, noting that increasing numbers of civilians were fleeing the area due to the violence.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/us-upgrades-mexico-travel-alert-as-violent-attacks-increase-5633763.html


Linkback - US upgrades Mexico travel alert- violent attacks
]]> 10/16/2008 7:26:37 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4915 4915
The airline’s chief executive officer, Azran Osman-Rani, stated that it was still in the process of finalizing operational details for its inaugural flight.

“We hope to announce this year the start of sales for the flight to London,” he said to told reporters at the 14th World Route Development Forum.

Azran took the opportunity to say that the global economic downturn was not adversely impacting AirAsia X’s operations and that, in fact, it was seeing higher passenger demand.

“Operationally, things are going well,” he noted, saying that the carrier did not foresee any difficulty in securing the financing for its new fleet of aircraft on order.

Azran also indicated that higher fuel prices have not affected AirAsia X as seriously as other airlines, as the carrier’s new aircraft were more fuel efficient.

According to the chief executive, AirAsia X would be picking up the first of 25 new wide-body A330s by the end of October, and another by the end of 2008. Three additional aircraft will be delivered in 2009.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/airasia-x-eyes-stansted-as-london-base-5633762.html


Linkback - AirAsia X eyes Stansted as London base
]]> 10/16/2008 7:25:13 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4914 4914 Hi we are coming over to Iskele and staying at Dee Ismail villa.
Does anyone have advise of where to eat, hire a car, information of where to visit, anything tourists would want to avoid rippoffs etc.

Linkback - We are coming over to Iskele North Cyprus and want
]]> 10/15/2008 9:55:17 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4913 4913 Just thought I would like to tell you of my best 3 swops. If you have any different ones pass them on

No 1
Schloss Grubhof in Lofer St Martin, Austria
We had the room above the entrance and looked onto the garden which had a fountain at the centre of the ornamental pond. It was covered in 1 metre of snow at the time. An ex King of Bavarias Castle and it was just that.

No 2
4 Seasons Villamura, Algarve
2,000 sq ft apartment with 2 beds and 3 balconies overlooking the golf course. Fabulous accommodation but not too keen on Villamura

No 3
Royal Tenerife Country Club, Tenerife
My wife and I own there and still consider it to be a haven for relaxing and quality accommodation away from the hustle and bustle of Playa de las Americas

[8D].

Linkback - Best 3 timeshare swops
]]> 10/15/2008 4:14:37 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4912 4912 I have heard conflicting reports and was just wondering if anyone could confirm.

cheers

Linkback - Disneyland Paris Resort
]]> 10/15/2008 11:02:23 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4911 4911
A Westgate Resorts project, the 3.2 million-square-foot PH Towers will also hold the distinction of being the first vacation ownership resort to be fully integrated with a major resort and casino complex. The 2,500-guestroom Planet Hollywood Resort debuted last year, having been reinvented from the former Aladdin Resort & Casino via a $1 billion makeover, and will provide direct access to PH Towers. Ground broke on PH Towers in 2006 and in 2007, Westgate Resorts closed on a $400 million construction and development loan for the project. Ultimately, the Morris Architects-designed timeshare property will feature approximately 1,200 luxury timeshare units, as well as a casino, a 35,000-square-foot convention center, a restaurant and 16,000 square feet of retail space.

Bovis Lend Lease Americas is overseeing construction of PH Towers. Completion of the first phase of the project is on schedule to take place next summer.

Headquartered in Orlando, Westgate is the largest privately owned timeshare company in the world, with a portfolio of 10,000 units at 28 resorts in 11 states. Presently, the company has an additional 4,500 units in its development pipeline.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20081012220/Latest/Worlds-Tallest-Timeshare-Tops-Off-in-Vegas.html


Linkback - World's Tallest Timeshare Tops Off in Vegas
]]> 10/15/2008 6:10:41 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4910 4910
Plans to convert the crumbling Taymouth Castle, near Kenmore, Perthshire into a six-star hotel and leisure complex had stalled but it is now understood that London Allied, a Guernsey-based company, has been in discussions with financial backers from the Middle East with a view to purchasing the picturesque mansion.

Work began on the site in 2005 by the Taymouth Group with the aim of transforming the castle, which played host to Queen Victoria on an early visit to Scotland, into a 150-room hotel with 26 timeshare properties, health spa and outdoor facilities including clay pigeon shooting, tennis courts and an equestrian centre. However, the £74m development has still to be completed after work came to a standstill.

It has been reported that other potential buyers are waiting in the wings should interest from London Allied wane, including Joe O'Leary, who heads a Dublin-based investment fund.

It is understood he has considered the possible sale of Taymouth Castle as three separate lots, with the hotel and timeshare elements being sold to different companies.

John French, director of the Taymouth Group, has been reported as saying his company was "very close" to securing a deal that would cement the future of the prestigious building.

He has stated that the Taymouth Group has spent millions of pounds saving one of Scotland's "finest, most beautiful properties."

London Allied declined to comment.

http://www.theherald.co.uk/news/other/display.var.2460156.0.Arab_money_may_revive_plan_to_turn_castle_into_sixstar_hotel.php


Linkback - Arab money may revive plan to turn castle into six
]]> 10/15/2008 6:08:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4909 4909
It's the first roll-back of the largest of the bewildering new fees that have driven up the cost of flying this year, while making it increasingly difficult for airline passengers to get a handle on travel costs.

In the last week, carriers have dropped their fuel surcharges by 18 percent, to $280, on flights from Chicago and other U.S. cities to Rome, Amsterdam, Madrid and Zurich, according to Tom Parsons, CEO and founder of Bestfares.com.

On flights departing to London from cities west of the Mississippi, fuel surcharges have declined 17 percent, to $366, according to Parsons.

Crude oil prices have plummeted in recent weeks to about $80 per barrel, driven down by concerns that a global economic slowdown will slate the world's thirst for fuel over the next year.

Now, airlines are starting pass along some of the savings to those with the means and inclination to travel to Europe this fall.

The trend means passengers heading across the Atlantic over the next few months will pay less than they would have this summer, when oil was near $140 per barrel. But even so, they aren't likely to see bargain-basement fares.

For example, all major airlines flying from Chicago's O'Hare International Airport to London Heathrow Airport, have lowered their base fare to about $160, round-trip. Fuel surcharges on those flights have remained steady this month at $302 per passenger, round-trip, Parsons said.

Even so, other fees and tariffs bring the total cost per passenger for a ticket to about $620, round-trip. And that doesn't include the added cost of checking bags.

The drop in fees and low base fares may signal that airlines are having difficulty attracting passengers to Europe as a result of the market mayhem, analysts said. As they cut back domestic flying this year, U.S. carriers have been shifting planes to trans-Atlantic routes, where prices remained high through the summer.

Now, carriers may be stuck with a surplus of planes on those routes as demand for flying slows because of the economic crisis.

"Is this really going to be enough to lure people back on planes in this economic crisis?" Parsons asked.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/travel/chicago-airline-fuel-surcharge-cut-oct13,0,6207912.story


Linkback - Major airlines slashing fuel surcharges
]]> 10/15/2008 6:06:28 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4908 4908
According to Mark Silverman, who wrote the Sept. 30 article, “The Illinois-based Shell Vacations Club, founded by Sheldon Ginsburg, hits on the key features to meet the criteria as best timeshare program in San Francisco.” He adds that he considers Shell Vacation’s point-based Shell Vacations Club “the best all-purpose ownership program in San Francisco.”

“A unique characteristic of urban timesharing in San Francisco is the way the properties are used,” says Silverman. “Many of the people owning in San Francisco actually live less than one hundred miles from the City. Instead of staying for a week, many owners use the properties for a night or two at a time. They may have a conference in town or they may have tickets to a play or ballet.”

There are three Shell Vacations Club resorts within the City. They include The Donatello, Inn at the Opera, and The Suites at Fisherman’s Wharf. The Vino Bello Resort® in Napa is also extremely popular with vacationers and was ranked 5th on Expedia® Insiders’ Select™ List of Best Hotels and Resorts.

Says Silverman, “Points combined with multiple locations in the City offers very flexible usage opportunities, whether it’s short stays, larger accommodations, or longer trips. Efficient points management can also make the program affordable for many budgets. Whether you live here or are planning to visit San Francisco, Shell Vacations Club resorts will serve you well however it is that you would be using timeshare.”

Perry Bergelt, Regional Director of Sales and Marketing for Shell Vacations Club, is naturally pleased with words of praise and accolades from the San Francisco Examiner. “We are delighted to have been singled out as the best,” he said.

Silverman’s Timeshare Examiner column, appearing several times a week on the Examiner.com website is designed to help owners get the most value from their timeshare, help prospective owners select the right program, and shed some light on a product that doesn’t get enough straightforward coverage in the mainstream press.

Headquartered in Northbrook, IL, Shell Vacations is one of the nation’s most respected independent vacation ownership developers with more than 2,500 employees. The company specializes in the sales, marketing, and hospitality management of its vacation ownership resorts as well as the servicing of over 120,000 owners/members.

Visit www.ShellVacationsClub.com and www.ShellVacationsHospitality.com for more information.

http://hospitality-1st.com/PressNews/ShellVacations-101408.html


Linkback - Best Timeshare Company in San Francisco?
]]> 10/15/2008 6:03:42 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4907 4907
Here is the one I had for next week early:

Guess who it is.



More to be revealed daily - the more that is displayed, the less the reward.

Today it is worth 4 points!



Linkback - Guess who it is - again
]]> 10/14/2008 9:11:11 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4906 4906
I would be interested to hear if you have and if anyone is taking action to stop the new building owners from getting rid of the current timeshare clients.

I have heard that they want to increase fees by 200% and get rid of the current agent that a lot of UK clients use, leaving them with no contact. The UK agent is in a legal battle with them at present and has started court action

Linkback - Carihuela Palace Park - Problems
]]> 10/14/2008 8:34:30 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4905 4905 Guess who:



The picture will be updated daily - the more that is revealed the less the reward.

Today it is worth a still staggering 8 points!!!




Linkback - Guess who it is - 13 October
]]> 10/13/2008 10:37:45 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4904 4904
Linkback - Stratford cruisers aka Ethos aka Cascadas
]]> 10/13/2008 8:04:29 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4903 4903
You will find that there is already a call for information about the closed companies on Holidaywatchdog whom you should contact if you have been affected. Another avenue is to contact the Enforcement Project, OTE website at www.ote-info.com.
norah


Linkback - Real Escape closed down by police
]]> 10/13/2008 2:09:32 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4902 4902
Passenger traffic is down 4.8 percent in 2008 compared to 2007, as tourists avoid Las Vegas during tough economic times. Airlines project that next year, there will be 12 percent to 15 percent fewer seats available on Las Vegas flights.

"There is clearly not a current need for increased capacity," said Linda Macey, properties manager for Southwest Airlines.

But county officials, airport officials and others believe McCarran International Airport should continue to expand so it can handle more passengers.

A $2.4 billion new international terminal is expected to open in 2012, giving the airport enough infrastructure to support 53 million passengers each year.

Southwest, which accounts for roughly 35 percent of the air passengers to and from Las Vegas, has scrapped a plan to increase its daily flights from 240 to 350 at the airport, Macey said.

"We are evaluating our flight schedules at Las Vegas and throughout the country on a daily basis right now," she said. "With the uncertainty of fuel prices and the economy right now, it is certainly fluctuating a lot more frequently than it had in the past."

Southwest has kept expenses flat through fuel hedges, which allowed it to buy fuel years in advance. But the deal is set to expire by 2012 and make Southwest subject to market prices for fuel.

Southwest and others are questioning the pace of expansion as the Las Vegas economy slows and airlines struggle. Airport expansions would largely be paid for by airline fees.

In July, Macey urged the Clark County Commission to cancel or delay every airport upgrade not justified by current needs.

In addition to the new terminal, projects include a new pedestrian bridge, new gates and a new heliport in Jean that will benefit helicopter tour operators.

"We do not feel that we should be delaying any of this whatsoever," said Rosemary Vassiliadis, deputy director of McCarran International Airport.

Airport and elected officials say the airport should anticipate for a recovering economy and be immediately able to accommodate larger crowds.

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2008/10/12/state/n120800D22.DTL


Linkback - Airlines question Vegas airport expansion plans
]]> 10/13/2008 6:54:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4901 4901
AIRLINES have begun to cut their fuel surcharge on passengers as crude oil prices dip to their lowest in almost a year in hopes of boosting passenger numbers as the industry fights the effects of the global financial crisis.

Australia’s Quantas announced on Wednesday it would reduce fuel surcharges on its international fares starting Thursday, while Europe’s Air France-KLM Group had announced a similar move on Tuesday effective Wednesday.

A spokesperson from Malaysian Airline System Bhd said the national airline had already lowered its surcharge for “certain customer sectors”.

Cargo subsidiary MASkargo has lowered its fuel surcharge rates to RM3.61 per kg effective Sept 29 from RM3.80 per kg previously for cargo uplift from Malaysia to International Air Transportation Association (IATA) Area 1 — South, Central and North and IATA Area 2 — America, Europe, Middle East and Africa.

An analyst with a local bank-backed brokerage told StarBiz: “With sharply declining crude oil price, there is the benefit of a falling cost base but the financial crisis is creating many challenges to the industry as well.”

He cites the fact that airlines globally were facing difficulty in securing loans to finance the delivery of new aircraft scheduled for the next two to six months.

At the same time, as many airlines globally were going bust, borrowing costs were going up as banks become more wary of lending to companies in the sector.

This was made even worse with bank collapses in Western countries, prompting financial institutions globally to adopt more stringent “risk management, which includes raising interest rates,” he said.

The financial crisis was also causing problems for airlines seeking to hedge fuel costs, with instability in the banking sector making it harder for airlines to find a reliable source of hedging tools.

However, OSK Investment Bank acting head of research Chris Eng said: “Many airlines have hedged their fuel costs when prices were at record highs, so it really doesn’t matter now if the counter-party bank can’t meet its commitments.”

Airlines would not be exercising their hedging contracts to buy fuel at the record prices when they can purchase at current lower rates.

Looking for hedging contracts to lock-in the current lower price of fuel, however, would be harder.

The first analyst said that global challenges” could be a factor keeping some airlines from lowering their fuel surcharge.

He believed that the global credit crisis was affecting AirAsia Bhd more than MAS, given that AirAsia was more heavily leveraged due to aggressive expansion of its fleet being a newer airline while MAS was only replacing its fleet.


AirAsia could be seeing higher financing costs almost immediately, he said, adding: “AirAsia’s loans are (denominated) in US dollars and the dollar is shooting up.”

Airlines also have been quick to cut their fuel surcharge, therefore, lowering the cost of flying to the benefit of passengers.

A spokesman for Malaysian budget carrier AirAsia told StarBiz: “We are currently reviewing the fuel surcharge and would announce a decision soon. Generally, lower fuel price means lower costs for us operationally and its contributes to the bottomline positively.

“We are unable to disclose this information but AirAsia charges the lowest fuel surcharge among local airlines.”

Jet fuel is typically priced at US$25 to US$35 above the crude oil price with the latest IATA quote on Oct 3 at US$140.4 per barrel.

http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/10/13/business/2249344&sec=business


Linkback - Airlines cut fuel surcharges
]]> 10/13/2008 6:52:09 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4900 4900
High pressure tactics and deceptive costs have given timeshares a mixed reputation.
But companies including Disney, Marriott, Hyatt, Starwood and Hilton dominate the industry, offering new perks and better value. "Timeshares are a great alternative to purchasing a vacation home since you are not responsible for the cost of maintenance," insisted Jim Lewis, president of Disney Vacation Club.

Selling real estate in timeshares can be a profitable way for developers to sell real estate, especially condos in hot vacation spots or hotel rooms at resorts. In such a deal, several people buy one property and share it.

Prices range from $8,000 for a small place in Florida to more than $30,000 for vacation rights at a top resort with golf courses and other amenities.

Timeshare offers, even within the same area, can vary greatly. The buy-in price may be low, but some places have high annual dues.

One drawback to timeshares is that the participant does not earn any equity in the vacation property.

When the membership period is over, the package has no value to the former member. Also, resale values are almost always lower than the original price.

Timeshares are now more closely regulated by state consumer officials, and sellers usually know they have to work hard to overcome the old reputation.

Dr. Tina Discepola, a physician from White Plains in Westchester, said she and her family signed up for a Disney timeshare in 2000.

"While we were on our first family Disney World vacation in Orlando, we had an experience that was beyond anything we ever expected," she said. "We met with a representative from Disney Vacation Club, listened to their sales pitch, and signed up that day."

Timeshares there start at about $18,000, plus a sliding monthly fee based on the number of points racked up for using the place. One important benefit, Discepola said, is that her family can stay at several Disney-owned resorts.

"There is tremendous flexibility in terms of when and where members can travel," she said.

http://www.nydailynews.com/money/2008/10/11/2008-10-11_hotel_industry_giants_including_disney_m.html


Linkback - Hotel industry giants make over timeshares
]]> 10/13/2008 6:49:26 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4899 4899
Fears of being left stranded by struggling airlines and the increasing pressure on family finances have led to a large rise in the number of bookings for self-catering cottages north of the border.

The Association of Scotland's Self Caterers said many of its members are having to turn people away, following a sharp rise in booking inquiries.

'Our members had a cracking summer and the half-term holidays look like being packed as well,' said Jennifer Moffat, secretary of the ASSC and owner of Airdeny Chalets in Argyll. 'A lot of self-catering businesses are already reporting a rise in their takings from last year, despite the fact that fewer people are booking in advance or staying as long. We are tending to get more people who take shorter breaks - three nights is fairly typical - and make late bookings.'

Sharon Makepeace, a spokeswoman for VisitScotland.org, said: 'In the light of the current economic climate, we anticipate more people will be looking to holiday closer to home over the October holidays. Over the summer period the self-catering sector fared particularly well and this trend looks set to continue. The rise in costs for fuel and food, coupled with the strength of the euro means people are retaining their holiday plans, but altering their destination choice and choosing Scotland.'

According to holiday travel group Hoseasons, there has been an almost 50 per cent growth in demand for domestic short breaks in the last couple of weeks.

In addition, Premier Cottages, a co-operative of more than 200 luxury self-catering cottages across the country, claims that in the run-up to the school holidays, which start this week for many families, a large number of their members were reporting a flood of late bookings. 'Our members are generally very busy at the half-term. We haven't had to endure the expected downturns in business that some of the other operators have had,' said Stuart Diplock, Premier's marketing director.

'People are now saying that, if we are going on holiday in the UK, then we want to have the same sort of quality we would expect abroad. They want good value for money, so the quality end is starting to make a difference.'

Auchendennan Cottages, by Loch Lomond, is typical of the new breed of accommodation providers attracting visitors. Complete with family sauna, hot-tub, flat-screen plasma televisions, lavish kitchens and luxury furniture, Auchendennan aims to provide all the comforts of a five-star resort for less than the price of a bed and breakfast.

'In the past week we've had bookings from a family in Glasgow, just 22 miles away, one from Colchester, and a big group looking for somewhere to meet between their respective homes in Aberdeen and Brighton,' said David McCowan, who runs the site. 'Self-catering used to be seen as a poor man's holiday, but not any more.'

http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2008/oct/12/scotland-scotland


Linkback - Boom in self-catering holidays as crunch bites
]]> 10/13/2008 6:46:35 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4898 4898
A survey of more than 2,000 people revealed that 65 per cent of Britons plan to holiday at home over the next 12 months, with a quarter of families planing to book a holiday cottage in the countryside and one in five planing to holiday at a British seaside resort.

"Young parents often have nostalgic memories of their own childhood holidays," said Paul Havenhead, marketing director at Towergate Bakers Insurance, the caravan insurance specialist that conducted the survey. "This combined with the economic downturn will create a boom in UK holidays in the year ahead," he added.

The rising price of flights and the cost of airline fuel surcharges has prompted 50 per cent of Britons to change their travel plans, according to a survey of 2,000 members of the online travel community trivago.co.uk.

British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Air France, Lufthansa and Aer Lingus have come under increasing pressure to reduce their fuel surcharges, as oil dropped to a year low of $86 a barrel this week. Oil prices have fallen by more than 40 per cent from a high of $146 a barrel, yet surcharges have remained at record levels. For example BA's surcharge for a long-haul flight remains at £218 return.

Richard Carrick, chief executive of Hoseasons, which specialises in self-catering breaks within Britain, predicted that a combination of high fuel surcharges and the weak pound is likely to push up the price of overseas holidays by around 10 per cent over the next year. "People will still want to go on holiday, but they are likely to take short breaks closer to home, and when they can afford it," he said.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travelnews/3171296/Family-holidays-in-Britain-set-to-soar.html


Linkback - Family holidays in Britain set to soar
]]> 10/13/2008 6:44:33 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4897 4897
Linkback - International Holiday Ownership Consultants
]]> 10/12/2008 8:46:31 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4896 4896
Linkback - Elite weeks
]]> 10/11/2008 3:41:43 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4895 4895
Linkback - timesharewalkaway.co.uk - Anyone used them
]]> 10/10/2008 11:01:55 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4894 4894









beryl

Linkback - transglobal estates
]]> 10/10/2008 9:50:50 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4893 4893 (background to this- last Autumn we received from Ethos and then RCI letters stating that RCI had disaffiliated Ethos. It was due to disputes between Ethos and RCI nothing to do with anything we had done)
We had added a 2bed red week 13 narrowboat points to our existing narrowboat week with a different RCI affiliated narrowboat company,to change our week to points so we could have a fortnight on our canal boat holidays, then when we are unable to do such an active holiday still be able to swap for an alternative in this country.No flights or car hires needed.
What they have offered us with no option other than to walk away, is a 2bed white week 6 in a Marbella apartment in Spain.
We have phoned to negotiate but they have refused.'Take it or leave it.' We do not want a timeshare in Spain.If RCI disaffiliated from this spanish resort we would be saddled with loosing yet another timeshare or for ever visiting a spanish resort that provides a holiday that is not our sort of scene and would cost us a flight and car hire too.
Are there any other Ethos RCI members who are in the same boat?(excuse the pun) What thoughts have others? How can we fight RCI?

Linkback - Ethos disaffiliation -RCI final Offer
]]> 10/10/2008 4:28:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4892 4892
Aer Lingus and the American carrier have begun a code-sharing agreement, enabling Aer Lingus customers access to United Airlines’ network in North America from November 1.

From April 2009, Aer Lingus will also place its code on United’s domestic flights, giving customers access to United's entire North American network.

The codeshare agreement will cover all six of Aer Lingus' US gateways, including New York-JFK, Boston, Orlando, Chicago-O'Hare, San Francisco, and Washington DC.

Aer Lingus customers will have access to almost 200 additional destinations in the US through United's hubs in Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington.

United customers will also benefit from greater access to destinations in Ireland and to destinations in the UK and in Europe through Aer Lingus' extensive short-haul network.

Dermot Mannion, Aer Lingus CEO, said this new agreement will change the way Irish passengers travel to the US, while also strengthening their position in America.

“The relationship with United Airlines extends our offering to both our Irish and North American customer base, with seamless travel options and access to more than 200 destinations served by United Airlines in the US.

We believe that this agreement will strengthen and consolidate our position in the US market as we capitalise on the scale and the strength of the United Airlines network.”

Glenn Tilton, chairman, president and CEO of United Airlines said: “We are pleased to partner with Aer Lingus and provide our customers in the United States with the most direct service to Ireland on the country's national carrier.

“Our customers will now enjoy more choices and benefits during their travels to Ireland and the rest of Europe.”

The United flight code is now available on all Aer Lingus transatlantic flights to and from Ireland, and on flights between Ireland and both London Heathrow and London Gatwick.

United customers can now book connecting flights on Aer Lingus' network for travel from November 1, 2008.

“The new partnership provides customers with a seamless booking process, coordinated baggage handling, and simplified reservations, ticketing and check-in,” said Mr Tilton.

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/aer-lingus-deal-opens-up-us-routes-13996076.html


Linkback - Aer Lingus deal opens up US routes
]]> 10/10/2008 7:07:25 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4891 4891
"It‘s ugly and getting uglier," said Susquehanna Financial Group analyst Robert LaFleur in a note to investors. "The domestic lodging business has slowed, and the pace of decline is accelerating."

In a sober conference call with investors, Chief Financial Officer Arne Sorenson argued that Congress should pass a financial bailout package:

Marriott‘s earnings projections came in well below analysts‘ expectations at 44 cents to 50 cents per share, compared to the consensus forecast of 63 cents. The company lowered its full-year 2008 earnings guidance to $1.62 to $1.68 per share, from its previous guidance of $1.77 to $1.88 per share. Analysts had forecast 2008 profit of $1.78 per share.

Sorenson said Marriott has a cushion under its $2.4 billion revolver, which is effective until 2012, to keep it comfortable until liquidity returns to the marketplace.

Bethesda, Md.-based Marriott said revenue rose 1 percent to $2.96 billion from $2.94 billion.

In North America, Marriott said third-quarter comparable company-operated revpar declined 1 percent and is expected to drop further — between 3 and 5 percent — in the fourth quarter.

Sorenson said Marriott‘s corporate group business has suffered as businesses have delayed booking events and trimmed their meeting and travel budgets.

The company‘s timeshare business was hit the hardest.

The company booked no new residential sales during the quarter and said it does not expect a sale in the fourth quarter. It now expects 2008 timeshare sales to total $158 million to $168 million, down from its previous forecast of $230 million to $250 million.

Marriott‘s timeshare results worry investors in Wyndham Worldwide Corp., which relies more on them. Wyndham shares lost 80 cents, or 5.2 percent, to $14.49 in afternoon trading.

For 2009, Marriott said the outlook is uncertain, but the company expects the environment to remain "unusually challenging." The company expects at least a 3 percent decline in North American revpar next year.

Marriott forecast 2009 earnings between $1.48 and $1.60 per share, below analysts‘ consensus profit estimate of $1.85 per share.

Marriott said it will focus on cash flow by trimming investments and share repurchases.

Oppenheimer & Co. analyst David Katz said stock buybacks had been "a key positive" for the company.

http://www.heraldnewsdaily.com/stories1/index.php?action=fullnews&id=39311


Linkback - Marriott books lower 3Q profit, expects tough 2009
]]> 10/10/2008 7:05:14 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4890 4890
Due to work commitments I have a week for sale at Puerto Anfi.

2 Bedroom appartment with a dual aspect balcony on the 6th floor with excellent views over the beach, island and harbour.

I paid over £15,000 for this 3 years ago and must sell this for any reasonable offer.

Contact me for details

billfoggon@hotmail.com
07803 259337

thanks

Linkback - Deluxe Appartment in Puerto Anfi
]]> 10/9/2008 11:53:29 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4889 4889 We've been caught out before, never again!
G.

Linkback - Diamond Resales
]]> 10/9/2008 7:41:44 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4888 4888
I have a 11000 Diamond Resort points for sale with 2008 managment fee's fully paid up

Please let me know if you are interested in offering a price

Linkback - 11000 DRI Points for Sale
]]> 10/9/2008 7:26:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4887 4887
Kind regards

Frankie

Linkback - timeshare
]]> 10/9/2008 6:31:33 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4886 4886
Originally Anfi wanted £1500 deposit, which we didn't have at the time. We only had £500 cash, which they accepted. They moved us out straight away from our resort in Playa del Ingles and put us up in a penthouse in Club Puerto for the rest of our holiday with our families and even sorted out our airport transfers.

Since getting home I've been searching on the net as Anfi told us we have 15days cooling off period. I have read on here that to take our money as a deposit shouldn't have occurred. Is this true and how does it affect my rights? Any help will be appreciated. I'm happy with my purchase but just want to be sure that it was above board what they did. They also told us on the day that we had to sign on the day to "clinch" the deal, as by going home we could not comtinue the offer over the internet. I have since found that by going to their site. You can book a introductory holiday with them.....they never told us about that...any comments please.

I may be a little slow in replying as I am working nights at the moment so please be patient. I will get back to you.

Kindest Regards,

Linkback - New member at anfi beach club.
]]> 10/9/2008 1:35:38 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4885 4885
Dover, NH (PRWEB) October 8, 2008 -- TimeshareCalendar.com announces the re-launch of its website with a new look, new features, and some very important new services. As Leslie Martin of TimeshareCalendar.com explains, "In this economy, time and money are precious. TimeshareCalendar.com offers you a safe, reliable resource for conducting all of your timeshare business, whether you want to buy, rent, or sell timeshare or plan your timeshare vacation."


TimeshareCalendar.com re-launches website

In this economy, time and money are precious. TimeshareCalendar.com offers you a safe, reliable resource for conducting all of your timeshare business, whether you want to buy, rent, or sell timeshare or plan your timeshare vacation. Timeshare owners and prospective owners have long recognized TimeshareCalendar.com as a helpful tool for vacation planning, allowing them to identify timeshare by week number on any given date for years into the future. Now TimeshareCalendar.com has expanded, offering an outlet as a reliable and dedicated timeshare resale option.

TimeshareCalendar.com helps buyers or renters find their dream vacation property or timeshare vacation rental. By using the Timeshare Calendar's scheduling tool, timeshare owners or renters find it easy to work out timeshare schedules, even planning years in advance.

Leslie Martin says, "Timeshare resales and timeshare rentals offer excellent discount options for vacationing. TimeshareCalendar.com is excited to add the benefits of an online timeshare marketplace to our already valuable Timeshare Calendar services.

TimeshareCalendar.com is a versatile and growing timeshare services company that provides advertising and marketing for timeshare resales and timeshare rentals, an inventory of available timeshare properties, and valuable tools for planning timeshare vacations. To learn more about TimeshareCalendar.com contact: Leslie Martin at 603-516-0210 or email info (at)timesharecalendar.com

http://www.prweb.com/releases/timesharecalendar/timeshareresales/prweb1439614.htm


Linkback - TimeshareCalendar.com Launches New Services
]]> 10/8/2008 8:17:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4884 4884 eads turn in Dubai

One of the most important aspects of the legislation, which is currently under final review by the Real Estate Regulatory Authority and the Dubai courts, is that consumers now have the right to cancel their timeshare purchase within 10 days after the date of execution without penalty.

'People will have more time to sit back and think about their purchase and can walk away from the deal if they choose to do so,' said Dale Young, Vice President and General Manager of Marriott Vacation Club Middle East.

The new rules also require companies to provide a detailed disclosure statement that describes all of the features, amenities, and rules of operation of the timeshare, including an explanation of the consequences of nonpayment.

In addition, any monies paid to the operator must be kept in escrow by a third party.

Taken together, these requirements will help to protect consumers and 'cull the herd' of unreputable companies that tarnish the image of the timeshare industry, Young noted.

In terms of demand for timeshare property, Young said the Dubai market has been relatively immune to the financial crisis, as compared to Europe and the US.

In general terms, the timeshare market typically does better than the hotel sector during a recession, because people 'always place a premium on taking their family on vacation', even when other expenses are being cut.

By contrast, hotel companies take a greater hit during economic downturns because they rely on business travel for a significant portion of their revenue.

Another trend that is emerging in the industry is that consumers, especially in Asia, are demanding greater flexibility when they purchase timeshares, Young said. Customers are no longer satisfied with the old model of buying a timeshare for one week a year at a fixed time and fixed location.

Instead, operators in Asia are being forced to sell point-based timeshares that allow consumers to reserve time on a daily basis at a wide range of properties.

'They want to be able to come and stay for a day, rather than a week. It's almost as flexible as a hotel room,' Young said.

http://www.ameinfo.com/170653.html


Linkback - New rules will help boost Dubai's timeshare indust
]]> 10/8/2008 8:13:52 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4883 4883
AITO claims this reflects a significant change in holiday habits among the 50 plus age group, who have more disposable income than they may have done in the past.

Figures from the Office of National Statistics indicate that the number of UK residents taking trips to North America increased by two per cent during the 12 months to July 2008.

Derek Moore, chairman for AITO, suggested that the older generation are among those likely to be travelling more because they are "more self sufficient".

He said: "When they were growing up a holiday was looked upon as being once a year, a treat or a domestic holiday or somewhere very much close to home.

"Now they are becoming a bit more adventurous with their holidays; the southern hemisphere is much more popular like South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and this time of year, south-east Asia and USA are always going to be popular spots."

http://www.millenniumdirect.co.uk/ourservicesnewsarticle.aspx?ArticleID=18811962


Linkback - Over 50s take 'more adventurous holidays'
]]> 10/8/2008 8:11:23 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4882 4882
Approximately 25 per cent of those surveyed claim that they are adapting their spending habits and compromising on their number of nights out, it was found in a recent poll of 1,500 Britons conducted by lastminute.com.

Forty-four per cent of the respondents said they are prepared for less comfort in their travel and would put up with less legroom on budget carriers, to ensure that they can afford to get away on holiday, and over 25 per cent are prepared for a higher level of inconvenience, such as making flight connections that would reduce the cost of airfare.

Of parents travelling with school-aged children, one in eight said they took their children out of school to benefit from lower holiday prices.

It was also found that 25 per cent of those polled consider holidays to be more important than ever in uncertain economic times.

Thirty-five per cent noted that planning for future holidays ‘motivate’ them through current financial troubles.

Forty-four per cent commented that the Internet was making it possible for them to be more spontaneous in booking holidays. This was true across all age groups, with 14 per cent responding that they had booked a holiday online a week or less before departure.

One-third of the respondents believe they are more adventurous about choosing a holiday destination now than they were in the past, due to options available on the Internet.

Meanwhile, 23 per cent responded that they were bored with traditional holiday packages and are looking for a greater level of adventure.

http://news.carrentals.co.uk/brits-say-holidays-more-important-than-ever-3423864.html


Linkback - Brits say holidays more important than ever
]]> 10/8/2008 8:09:59 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4881 4881
But American has done an about-face. The carrier announced Tuesday that it will work with Wi-Fi vendor Aircell to put a filter on the Internet when passengers use American's new Wi-Fi service.

Originally, American said its flight attendants would keep an eye out as they walked the aisles. If they saw anything inappropriate on a computer screen, they were to tell the passenger to knock it off.

That's what American wants its flight attendants to do when, for example, they see a passenger watching an adult DVD on a computer.

This was not what most flight attendants thought they had signed up for. The Association of Professional Flight Attendants, in an Aug. 29 hotline, told members:

Your APFA leadership is in contact with American management to discuss the ramifications of American's decision to restrict a passenger's ability to place Internet phone calls while affirming no intent to filter what might be obscene content.
Late Tuesday afternoon, American put out a press release:

Based on the feedback of our customers and employees, American Airlines is working with Aircell to implement technology to filter pornographic content over the Gogo inflight Internet service.
Since the launch of Gogo, American has not experienced any reported incidents of customers viewing inappropriate content via the Gogo service. However, we believe this is an appropriate measure to take.

More details will be forthcoming as the company finalizes its plans.

In other words, American Airlines' passengers won't be able to look at Kyla Ebbert on their computers.

http://aviationblog.dallasnews.com/archives/2008/10/american-airlines-to-put-on-po.html


Linkback - American Airlines to put on porn filters
]]> 10/8/2008 7:24:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4880 4880
But since hitting a record in mid-July, the price of crude has fallen by roughly a third amid slowing demand and growing economic concerns. That's easing the near-term worries of major airlines, but many are still skittish that prices could go back up.

Many airline executives also point out that fuel is still costing them more than a year ago. Oil prices, despite the pullback, are about 25 percent higher than this time last year.

During the second quarter, US Airways spent $1.1 billion on fuel and related costs -- up 65 percent from a year earlier. Delta shelled out $1.68 billion, compared with $1.11 billion a year ago.

Chairman and Chief Executive Gerard Arpey of American Airlines parent AMR Corp. has said falling oil prices won't guarantee falling ticket prices. He noted that even when the airlines were posting profits, they lagged other companies in return on investment. All U.S. carriers, except for Southwest Airlines Co., lost money in the first half of the year. Southwest was spared mostly because of fuel hedging -- financial transactions it uses to lock in lower prices for most of its fuel.

But while oil prices have a huge impact on airfares, they are just part of the story.

Another huge driver for airline fares is the classic balance of supply and demand, noted Bob Harrell of New York-based travel and aviation consulting firm Harrell Associates. And although demand is down this fall as consumers pinch their pennies, he said, supply is lower as the major carriers' capacity cut plans are implemented. Capacity is expected to go down even farther later this year and early in 2009, as airlines' long-range plans go into effect. So the airlines still have a bit of the upper hand when it comes to keeping prices where they are, Harrell said.

However, Harrell suggests that as the financial crisis unfolds further, fares could be readjusted if the economy gets worse and demand falls off.

"When that happens, people aren't selling cars, they aren't buying refrigerators and they aren't flying," he said.

Another factor is timing. Airlines generally are very slow to adjust fare prices, Harrell said, and are likely waiting to see whether oil prices stay under $100 per barrel for a while before considering any possible rate adjustments.

"They know they can't make money where oil prices were at this summer," Harrell said.

He notes that sustained oil prices below $100 would be beneficial for the airlines and if oil falls further, the price relief might trickle down to benefit consumers.

"They'd love $80 (per barrel oil), but I think certainly, with oil prices around $90 or $100, the airlines feel comfortable with current pricing levels."

http://edition.cnn.com/2008/TRAVEL/10/07/airfares.question.ap/


Linkback - With oil prices down, why aren't airfares?
]]> 10/8/2008 7:22:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4879 4879
To enjoy the benefits of vacation ownership, or timesharing, consumers make a one-time purchase of a share of furnished resort accommodations, choosing from a wide range of products designed to suit any lifestyle. Vacation owners enjoy spacious accommodations, a variety of on-site amenities and services, and flexibility in their travel options through vacation exchange. By trading some or all of the time they own, consumers can take advantage of different vacation experiences at thousands of resorts around the world.

All shared ownership resort interests come in two basic forms: a deeded interest in real estate and a right-to-use, or non-deeded, interest. These two basic forms are called by many names -- some required under state law and others adopted for marketing purposes. However, the majority of shared ownership resorts today convey a use right backed by a deeded interest in real property -- by whatever name it may be called. Deeded real estate interests are usually called "timeshare estates" under state law, and non-deeded interests are "timeshare uses" or "timeshare licenses" officially, but may also be called "memberships."

Timeshares. Traditional timeshares regardless of whether they are backed by a deed or not, allow buyers to purchase an increment of time, typically one week, in a condominium or apartment type of furnished accommodation. Timeshare owners receive either a fixed week or a floating time reservation arrangement that may vary by unit type and season. More than two-thirds of timeshare interests today are deeded.

Fractional/private residence club. These owners typically purchase accommodations with related use rights in increments of more than two weeks and sometimes as long as three months (a quarter share). This type of ownership is almost always deeded and is a more affordable alternative to a second home. Owners benefit by avoiding the ongoing maintenance responsibilities of an entire second home, and usually enjoy a high level of service as part of the product. This product segment is considered the luxury tier of shared ownership.

Vacation club. This name generally describes a company or related group of resorts that offers consumers vacation accommodations in more than one location. When a consumer purchases an interest in a "vacation club," it is either deeded or non-deeded like any other vacation ownership interest. If the vacation club interest is deeded, the consumer is usually said to own at a "home" resort at which he or she has a priority right of use. Even if the vacation club interest is not deeded, the consumer could still have a home resort or could have a "membership" in the club that entitles him or her to use any of the club's component resorts. Vacation clubs offer highly flexible use of multiple resorts, subject to certain advance reservation priorities and rules. Some well-known timeshare companies market their properties as a vacation club that provides their consumers with both a deeded interest in real property and multi-site flexibility.

Exchange. An exchange company allows existing timeshare owners to trade their timeshare interests for comparable accommodations and travel-related services. Most resorts are affiliated with an exchange company, and many resort companies also offer an internal exchange mechanism that allows owners to exchange to resorts within their resort group. If an internal resort exchange is mandatory or long-term, it is usually considered to be a vacation club. Fractional and private residence club resorts may offer exchange opportunities for their owners as well. Some exchange companies have a special program for these kinds of resorts.

Points. Points are another aspect of vacation ownership that allows consumers to use their vacation product in a highly flexible fashion. Points are simply a numeric representation of the relative use management value of the timeshare or fractional interest purchased--which again can be either a deeded or non-deeded interest. There are a few companies that offer "pure points" without the sale of an underlying specific timeshare interest. By purchasing points in any of their formats, the consumer can use their points to reserve different combinations of accommodation sizes, locations and seasons, and may also be able to acquire a variety of travel services depending on the rules of the timeshare company. Think of points like tickets--symbolic of the product or service being used or reserved.

Vacation ownership is highly regulated. The various products described above must comply with strict standards set forth in state timeshare laws as well as several federal laws before being offered to consumers. For nearly 40 years, ARDA members have worked with federal and state governments to support consumer protection legislation. As a result, purchasers have a five- to seven-day rescission period in most states that allows them time to cancel a purchase contract for any reason and get their money back. Further, most state timeshare laws require truth in advertising, protect purchasers' timeshares from the developer's debt, and assure that purchasers receive detailed information about the timeshare plan they are buying, including the type of timeshare interest, how to use the product, management and budget information and much more. State timeshare laws usually apply whether the vacation product is called a timeshare, fractional, private residence club, vacation club or points product.

Know what you are buying. ARDA and its member companies urge consumers to know what vacation product they are purchasing by reading the contract carefully and asking questions about their vacation purchase. For more information and consumer tips, please visit ARDA at http://www.arda.org/.

The American Resort Development Association is the Washington D.C.-based professional association representing the vacation ownership and resort development industries. Established in 1969, ARDA today has over 1,000 members ranging from privately held firms to publicly traded companies and international corporations with expertise in shared ownership interests in leisure real estate. The membership also includes timeshare owner associations (HOAs), resort management companies, and owners through the ARDA Resort Owners Coalition (ARDA-ROC).

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20081007216/Latest/Timeshare-Industry-Encourages-Travelers-to-Explore-Timeshare-Opportunities.html


Linkback - Explore timeshare with the following tips -ARDA
]]> 10/8/2008 7:20:40 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4878 4878
“As my parents were timeshare owners, I came into the industry knowing what a great product timeshare is. Surprisingly, the majority of holidaymakers remain unaware of the excitement, the lifestyle and the travel opportunities that can be enjoyed through timeshare ownership.

Owners Perspective is the first independent consumer publication dedicated to timeshare and I’d like to congratulate Paul and Sharon Mattimoe for having the foresight to share their passion for this great holiday lifestyle with a wider public.

Paul and Sharon have succeeded in making a tremendous success of the business-facing publication, Perspective Magazine. It’s clear from the inaugural issue of Owners Perspective they are bringing the same energy, enthusiasm and understanding of timeshare to readers of the new title.

The value of having the independent voice of Owners Perspective is immeasurable. The magazine will provide a trusted, informative and lively channel of communication, while helping to generate a strong sense of community among owners to help them to get the most out of their holidays.

Resort development and exchange companies will also benefit from having another channel from which to learn yet more about what owners and members want in their holiday. And, as timeshare is constantly developing, Owners Perspective will have an important part to play in explaining the benefits to the customer of the exciting new shared-vacation ownership products coming on to the market.

We at RCI are on a mission to inspire our members to discover the world of adventure and wonderful experiences an investment in a lifetime of shared-vacation ownership holidays represents. We very much look forward to helping Paul and Sharon to make Owners Perspective the success it deserves to be.”

The first edition of Owners Perspective magazine has received fantastic reviews across the globe, and in interviews creator Paul Mattimoe, CEO of Perspective International Ltd explains “The first edition has allowed for a successful launch, but it is really just the shell of a magazine at the moment – it has good content, but it’s personality will be injected over the first few months as the readers get involved and tell us what they want to have in their magazine.”

On the recent announcement regarding RCI’s support he says, “We enjoy a great relationship with Group RCI via our business publication, Perspective Magazine, but to have their support in our new venture into the much wider field of the consumer is very exciting and will help us to accurately deliver essential information regarding the industry, as well increasing our reach globally.”

The high quality online version of Owners Perspective boasts free subscriptions to existing owners and prospective buyers of timeshare, fractional ownership, destination clubs, private residence clubs and investment real estate.

For more information visit www.ownersperspective.com

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20081006214/Latest/RCI-Confirms-Support-of-New-Consumer-Publication-for-Shared-Ownership-Industry.html


Linkback - RCI supports Owners perpective
]]> 10/8/2008 7:17:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4877 4877
On Monday Wyndham Worldwide announced it was restructuring its timeshare business and cutting back on new timeshare developments. In a public statement, the company said it will “refocus its sales and marketing efforts on consumers with higher credit quality” and look for ways to “enhance the cash flow” of the timeshare business.

“Right or wrong, timeshare spooks investors,” Thomas Weisel Partners analyst Jake Fuller told the Associated Press.

Wyndham’s announcement came just a few days after industry bellwether Marriott International reported timeshare contract sales fell 13 percent in the recent quarter. In addition to credit issues, Marriott’s timeshare business was impacted by “the increasingly negative perceptions of residential real estate,” the company reported in a public filing.

Marriott typically finances timeshare purchases and then sells the loans to Wall Street as securities—a difficult proposition these days, the Washington Post notes.

“Our timeshare business has certainly been far more impacted by the current financial environment than our core lodging business,” Marriott International CEO J.W. Marriott, Jr. said in the company’s statement. “Tight credit, soft consumer spending and a difficult securitization market have lowered our expectations for the fourth quarter and 2009. “

http://blogs.iht.com/tribtalk/properties/roof/?p=532


Linkback - Timeshare shares take a beating
]]> 10/8/2008 7:14:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4876 4876
Linkback - Articles about club la costa
]]> 10/7/2008 11:08:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4875 4875 I am a new subsrriber to this site.Can I ask, as anyone else had a e.mail from DRI offering 'experience days' in exchange for points.Examples are 2 nights London W/E 12,500 points,Scottish Castle family W/E 25,000 points.No I have not made a mistake with the number of noughts,if these figures are correct you will certainly have to be well heeled to enjoy that experience.

Gee Gee

Linkback - Experience Days
]]> 10/7/2008 3:25:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4874 4874 Are they legit or not?

Linkback - Alpha Group Resales - Dublin
]]> 10/6/2008 10:11:52 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4873 4873


4 points for a correct answer.

Answer to be revealed 12th October unless correctly guessed beforehand.



Linkback - Guess what it is - 06 October
]]> 10/6/2008 9:26:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4872 4872 or cash.

Linkback - Timeshare Resolved
]]> 10/6/2008 8:32:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4871 4871 are supposedly based in Dublin. Although I have checked them out with
the Timeshare Advisory Board who gave them the okay, has anyone had any recent or historic dealings with them and how did they go?
They requested the usual £995 deposit to fix your sale with the 3rd party. By the way the telephone no for above Advisory Board was supplied by Alpha Group, so I could have been talking to anyone??

Linkback - ALPHA GROUP RESALES
]]> 10/6/2008 4:32:37 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4870 4870 For everybody thinking to join CLC-dont do that and read all small letters properly-they are selling your debts to different companies witch is really doggy.

Linkback - club la costa
]]> 10/5/2008 10:03:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4869 4869 Hi, before I continue, can I apologise in advance for not finding this website earlier.[:I]

Last week I was contacted by RSSL reference selling of my timeshare points. We were thinking of selling, however they made an offer of 22,000 UK pounds Sterling for the points, and said they had a buyer who had already promised payment. They said I would need to pay 1800 Euro's as a deposit which would be refunded when the 22K went into my bank account. They then said there was absolutely no risk, and everything was covered by VISA etc. I was dubious at the time, but returned home to speak to my other half. Anyway (and I am sure you are all wondering why) I answered the phone at the time promised by them and were told the buyer had deposited £6660 in their account, and would I continue with my end of the sale and pay my previously arranged 1800 Euro. I did this, and everything went as they said they would. Someone from their "accounts" department phoned up and confirmed the sale, and said they would send a contract out within 5 days which I must check and sign, then 4-5 weeks later the transfer would go through, money would credit my account, then and only then would they ask for my points certificates. At the same time my 1800 Euro payment on VISA would be refunded. The final step is to send a courier for my certificates.

Yesterday I found this forum and website and began to feel uneasy about the whole deal, so phoned VISA to check if I was covered for a refund if the sale turned out to be a scam.....I am....

Now I am sure there are many here who think this is a scam, but I have today recieved the contracts, and they look legit, but require signatures on contract, visa payments and authorisation to the same. (Original CC slips attached for signing). They also say if I pull out they will keep 20% of the 1800 eurosI have already (Stupidly) paid.

I did not give them my 3 digit CC security code, and have signed nothing....yet!

ADVICE on what to do next would be appreciated.

The address on the literature sent is: RSSL, Mijas Costa, La Cala, Malaga, Spain, and the website shown is www.rsslservices.com

Out of interest, they have shown my address as completely incorrect on the contract, indeed nowhere near in the same town as where I live or have ever lived.


Linkback - RSSL
]]> 10/4/2008 6:44:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4868 4868
Linkback - Anfi singles club
]]> 10/4/2008 6:08:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4867 4867
However, a friend has offered his 2501 points to us much cheaper than CLC. What are the pitfalls of doing it this way?

Also I am hearing such mixed messages about CLC that we are now more confused than a month ago.

Full sites, can't book what you want etc

What is going wrong?

Borzoie

Linkback - Advice needed
]]> 10/3/2008 1:40:29 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4866 4866
In the conversation though, it was mentioned that there is a beach at Golf del Sur. Can anyone give me any more information about it? Sand or stone, good or bad etc.

Cheers

Linkback - Beach at Golf del Sur, Tenerife
]]> 10/3/2008 11:51:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4865 4865
We had a call back from them this evening, and I asked the obvious "Any up front costs, any retainers/security payments" etc.

When they said there was a $599 marketing fee:

"There are two costs involved with selling a timeshare. The first is what
we refer to as the closing costs. These are the fees of our title
company. The good news about the closing costs is that the _buyer_ will
pay for them.

The second is our one time advertising expense of $599 that reserves
your spot on the website and generates the offers needed to get your
property sold or rented. It is the only out of pocket expense that you
will encounter. Also, If you are only renting, there is a one-time
rental expense of $199 or Lifetime for just $499.

We guarantee that your property will sell at _your_ set price through
_our_ services and, if you should sell by any other means at our
advertised price or higher then we will simply refund the one time
marketing expense in full."

I see there are a few posts here about this company, what are your opinions or experience with these?

Cheers

Mick

ps...we said we would not sell with that fee, and I would do some research....and where else could I do that [:)]


Linkback - SellMyTimeShareNow.com
]]> 10/2/2008 7:49:33 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4864 4864
Linkback - resale
]]> 10/2/2008 9:38:41 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4863 4863 [8D]HI,I AM A NEW MEMBER,AND HAVE 10,500 DIAMOND RESORT INTERNATIONAL TIME SHARE POINTS FOR SALE,2008 FEES PAID,ALSO THE SPECIAL LEVY FEE,ALSO INCLUDED IS 2 WEEKS IN SUNSET BAY TENERIFE IN JANUARY,ANYONE WHOS INTERESTED,JUST MAKE ANY REASONABLE OFFER,THANKS.

Linkback - 10,500 DRI POINTS FOR SALE
]]> 10/2/2008 1:15:21 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4862 4862
Linkback - Family Trusts
]]> 10/1/2008 11:03:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4861 4861
Linkback - Spend Easter Holiday in Florida
]]> 10/1/2008 6:35:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4860 4860
Linkback - Trip to scotland
]]> 10/1/2008 9:25:07 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4859 4859
I hope to be able to report back further improvements and refurbishments in the accomodation.

It is noticable that there has been little being said on any other forums about Diamond at the moment. The fixed weeks auction, the presentation at Broome Park, even Ron's birthday received more attention.

Could it be that everyone is happy?

We are currently saving money every month so that we have plenty of reserve to pay our MF's whatever they may be in the new year. Our points holding now stands at 375(00) - any ideas how much it might cost us next year?

We have certainly had out use out of them - so far we have had about 11 weeks this year (including mid week breaks), and have booked 10 weeks away next year (including a couple of midweek breaks) and still have 116(75) points left over.

Oooh - I do enjoy my hols [;)][;)][}:)]



Linkback - Kenmore Club
]]> 9/30/2008 10:49:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4858 4858
Linkback - Confused about timeshare.com
]]> 9/30/2008 9:22:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4857 4857 i am wanting to know if any one knows anything about bluesky properties.com.
They have made contact with me and are offering me £14,000 for my 8.000 points,catch is they want my card details to hold 1200euros until completion of sale, they say 5 to 6 weeks for this.
Am i right in thinking they wont be around then, and my monies gone.
Well i have give them the push today when they rung me back.look out people they sound convincing.

gazza

Linkback - blueskyproperties
]]> 9/30/2008 4:48:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4856 4856
Linkback - Palms Tenerife Asset Recovery Offer
]]> 9/29/2008 11:08:11 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4855 4855
Linkback - resale
]]> 9/28/2008 11:01:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4854 4854 Guess who it is:



Points decrease by the day as the photo has less distortion

5 points for a correct answer today

Answer to be revealed 5th October unless correctly guessed beforehand.





Linkback - Guess who
]]> 9/28/2008 7:38:28 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4853 4853
Linkback - Mike and Emma`s Cantina
]]> 9/26/2008 8:32:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4852 4852
CIB's investigation found that Full Circle Management Ltd (which traded under the style of FC Management) targeted existing timeshare owners, who were invited to attend a presentation at which they were persuaded to pay the company a fee, in return for which they were promised they would be "rid of the [timeshare] problem once and for all". Clients were also invited to participate in a cash back scheme through which they were offered the opportunity to earn back what they had lost on their timeshare investment. The cost of the combined options varied between £1,800 and £8,000 and the company signed up nearly 450 clients between September 2006 and March 2008, generating a turnover of more than £2m. However, the inquiry found that almost £1m of that sum had been diverted to a Gibraltan company under common ownership and could not be accounted for.

Furthermore, CIB's investigation also established that the timeshare disposal contract was not legally binding on the timeshare management company who, in the event of default by Full Circle, would continue to look to the client for outstanding management fees; a fact that was not made known to the client by Full Circle. As at February 2008 the company had potential future annual management fees of more than £150,000 but less than £12,000 in its bank account.

Regarding the cash back scheme, the investigation established that Full Circle had received more than £280,000 as agents for the cash back providers (in addition to £95,000 in sales commission) but that, as at March 2008, had handed over only £107,000 of that sum. As a result, 51% of clients are prevented from pursuing their claim to cash back, having not received the required paperwork, whilst the potential of the scheme for the remaining clients cannot be assessed.

Recent information reveals that the company ceased to trade in July 2008, having been abandoned by its management team, who are ex-patriots living in Spain and who failed to co-operate fully with the investigation.

Full Circle's sister company, FC Management Ltd, although dormant, was also wound up by the Court on the grounds that its name was identical to the trading style of Full Circle and could lead to confusion in the minds of the general public.

In winding the companies up the District Judge commented that Full Circle's business model appears to be one that significantly disadvantages the public.




Linkback - Timeshare Scam Brought Down
]]> 9/26/2008 7:55:23 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4851 4851 Any advice as to which would be the better resort to book?
Also would it matter what time of year as long as it is a week somewhere? In other words, is there any trading power issue other than if I put in a peak week I can get two weeks out?
Any advice much appreciated.
Not sure I'll use them but I'll certainly keep an eye on what they have available

Linkback - DAE and Floating Weeks
]]> 9/25/2008 8:58:25 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4850 4850
Linkback - Secure Leisure
]]> 9/24/2008 7:57:46 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4849 4849
Linkback - selling a timeshare
]]> 9/23/2008 7:26:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4848 4848 Scammers? What do you think.

Linkback - Planet Vacations
]]> 9/23/2008 6:01:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4847 4847
Linkback - Planet Vacations
]]> 9/23/2008 4:03:12 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4846 4846 I was scammed by Duster Global Services last October for 900 Euros which I paid unfortunatley with my debit card.To cut a long story short the first offer failed in January ,their second offer was less than the first and it was also from a partner company so I declined it.DGS say they have fulfilled their obligations and will not refund me the 900 euros.They clearly breached the contract in my opinion by making a second offer much less than the original but they are having none of it and wont correspond with me.Is there anything I can do??.

I was contacted again last night by Business Marketing Services who said they had an offer for my timeshare which was acceptable to me.However my wife and I would have to go to Malaga Spain to complete the deal and pick up a cheque!!!!.I declined.

Is there a risk free and safe way of selling a timeshare ?

Thank you in anticipation

zuesfaber

Linkback - BMS / Dunster Global services
]]> 9/23/2008 2:47:38 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4845 4845 Guess what it is:



7 points for a correct answer

Answer to be revealed 28th September unless correctly guessed beforehand.




Linkback - Guess what it is - 22 September
]]> 9/22/2008 7:51:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4844 4844
The company who manage the timeshare maintenance fees have also recently changed - has anyone heard of 'iberian property management'? The previous company were uk registered, however, it looks as if the new one is in Malaga.

Apparently legal discussions have been ongoing, between the above company and the company who own the building, since February of this year to ensure fees do not increase crazily, however, I would appreciate hearing from anyone who is in a similar situation or who has any advise as I do not wish to lose the Timeshare - especially as it feels as if the only reason for the increase would be to get rid of those people who have had their appartments for a long time and for the new company to make so additional money.....

Linkback - Possible Maintenance increase
]]> 9/22/2008 4:43:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4843 4843 think we have fallen for a scrath card scam whilst away in bali last month.basically went to a presentation and stupidly signed up on the spot to a holiday club paying approx £1000 deposit , the company is royal resorts based in australia and bali. anyone had any dealings with them?
since getting back to the uk got round to doing some reasearch and did not like what we saw, seeked some more advice and was generally told to keep clear of holiday clubs by various independant bodies some nameing this company before i even told them who it was.
just wanted to see what other peoples experiences are with this company. think we have lost our deposit but are onto the credit card company. both feel really upset that this has happened especially mr gullible as he convinced mrs gullible it was a good deal!!

Linkback - royal resorts bali
]]> 9/22/2008 3:49:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4842 4842
WOULD ALL AFFECTED PLEASE READ

Have you bought holiday or VIP Points from VIP Club or Leisuretime or Buena Viva or St Frances Marketing Ltd or from any other business IN EXETER? Are you unhappy with your purchase? Do you want out but are outside of the 'cooling off period'?

There are many trading names - which may have included
Quay Marketing Coastal Marketing Marina Marketing Leisuretime Promotions
Oasis Marketing Cathedral Marketing Inspirational Holidays
Amazon Marketing Reach SW Midas Marketing

- and anything which leads back to Marsh Barton Exeter.


Sandy Grey of the Timeshare Consumers’ Association www.timeshare.org.uk invites anyone interested to join a newly formed group to try to get out of both their Timeshare purchase contract and any linked loan agreement to contact him at info@timeshare.org.uk 01909 591 100 [Merely registering your interest does not commit you in any way.]

Please contact Sandy Grey as soon as possible. Any queries should be taken up with him and not posted here.



Linkback - VIP Points Buena Viva St Frances Marketing
]]> 9/17/2008 8:40:04 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4841 4841 asking price would be £4000
Or would split points.
I have an extra 15000 points left over this year
Management fees paid
Buyer would also pay all transfer fees & costs.
Selling due to emigrating to Australia.
Thanks....

Linkback - 14000 points for sale
]]> 9/17/2008 8:30:45 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4840 4840
This is a much sort after complex and January is usual completely fully booked. Due to family problems I will not be using it this January 2009.

Anyone interested in renting these weeks please get in touch. I am the owner of these weeks and I pay £584 per year for maintenance. So I am looking to get this amount to defer my costs. Maintenance fees are fully paid for 2009.

All paperwork required to check in at reception will be provided through me but will be supplied to me by diamond resorts office.

Martin


Linkback - Sunset Harbour Tenerife weeks 2 & 3 for rent
]]> 9/17/2008 1:50:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4839 4839
No longer. Officers of Italy's revenue guard turned up yesterday at the Rome headquarters of its bankrupt flag-carrier and walked out with 10 years' worth of company accounts. The operation was mounted by prosecutors investigating the airline's demise.

They opened an inquiry after the company sought bankruptcy protection on August 29, acting on a petition from a consumer association, Codacons, which represents shareholders and employees.

The president of Codacons, Carlo Rienzi, welcomed yesterday's raid. "Now we want the responsibilities and names of those who have brought about, or contributed to, the wrecking of Alitalia to be determined and made public."

According to Italian media reports, no one has so far been placed under formal suspicion. The police operation was mounted as government ministers, union leaders and the investors who stand ready to buy the firm struggled to reach an agreement. Under the terms of a rescue plan designed to ensure Alitalia remains Italian, a consortium of businesspeople assembled by the prime minister, Silvio Berlusconi, would take on the airline's more profitable units and merge them with its main domestic rival, Air One.

The investors are due to meet tomorrow and have warned they will walk away from the deal unless the workers' representatives agree to their industrial plan and new contracts.

The main trade union federations have given their blessing to the consortium's industrial plan but the smaller, more militant unions that represent the pilots and cabin crew were cut out of the negotiations. By last night, talks on the new contracts had barely started.

The collapse of Alitalia would spell big political trouble for Berlusconi, who has invested a vast amount of his personal political capital in the exercise. As the hours ticked away, the prime minister warned that, if Alitalia went under, he would order a "drastic" reduction of the generous welfare support promised to the 3,250 workers who would be laid off.

Under the terms of an outline plan agreed with the main trade union federations, they would receive 80% of their salaries for up to seven years. Thousands more workers would be found jobs in other companies, though in many cases on lower pay.

In perhaps the most eloquent comment on this increasingly bizarre affair, the leader of the radical SDL union, Paolo Marras, said: "No one knows anything about how it will turn out."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2008/sep/17/theairlineindustry.italy


Linkback - Police raid adds new twist to Alitalia saga
]]> 9/17/2008 6:06:16 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4838 4838
More than 20 people have been arrested in a timeshare fraud on the Costa del Sol.

The National Police are investigating the case which could have affected hundreds of people, most of them foreigners.

The arrests are now known to have been made last week and new detentions have not been ruled out and several promoters are reported to be under investigation.

La Opinion de Málaga reports that the fraud could consist of offering the purchaser a set time in the property without confirming that the time has already been previously sold.

The paper says that investigations remain open and more arrests will take place shortly.

http://www.typicallyspanish.com/news/publish/article_18018.shtml


Linkback - 20 arrests in Costa del Sol timeshare fraud
]]> 9/17/2008 6:03:21 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4837 4837
Meeson explained: “We have been able to hedge our fuel, plan ahead and ensure we offer Jet2.com’s low fares to our customers’ favourite European leisure destinations from our six regional UK bases. And we have recorded our best ever load factors – in excess of 90%.”

As compared with other travel operators in the UK, a sector that has seen a number of failures this year, he added: “Our ATOL-protected package holiday business, Jet2holidays.com, has also had another bumper year. The airlines and tour operators that have had problems have been those with a bias towards trans-Atlantic and long haul flights…and this is an entirely different market to ours.”

The parent company of Jet2.com, Dart Group PLC, issued a statement recently about its overall performance, noting that Group’s profits before taxation for the six month period ended 30 June, is expected to exceed GBP30 million, and that its full-year results are currently in advance of all market expectations.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/jet2-reports-record-profits-5633642.html


Linkback - Jet2 reports record profits
]]> 9/17/2008 6:01:19 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4836 4836
BOCA RATON, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 15, 2008--Bluegreen Corporation (NYSE: BXG) ("Bluegreen"), a leading provider of Colorful Places to Live and Play(R), announced today that it has agreed to extend until November 15, 2008 the period during which Diamond Resorts International has an exclusive right of negotiation to acquire all of the Bluegreen common stock at a price of $15 per share. The parties have agreed to continue to work to reach a definitive agreement for the acquisition of Bluegreen at the earliest possible time.

Alan B. Levan, Chairman of the Board of Bluegreen commented, "Diamond Resorts has advised us that it is continuing to move forward with the acquisition of the Company at a price of $15 per share, but needs the additional period to finalize due diligence and its financing arrangements. Diamond Resorts has also agreed to pay us an amount approximating Bluegreen's expenses in connection with the transaction."

As previously announced, it is anticipated that the definitive agreement will include a "go-shop" provision permitting Bluegreen to actively seek alternative transactions which would provide greater value to its shareholders. Bluegreen is engaging a financial advisor to assist in this process.

The parties have agreed that if, notwithstanding their efforts, a definitive agreement is not reached by November 15, 2008, they will continue to work towards such agreement until December 15, 2008, but that during such period Diamond Resorts will no longer have an exclusive right of negotiation and Bluegreen may actively seek and negotiate alternative transactions.

Full Story: http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=112002&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1197063&highlight=

Linkback - Bluegreen Agrees to Extend Exclusive Negotiating
]]> 9/17/2008 5:59:29 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4835 4835
Travel agents say thousands of the companies' customers who had organised their autumn breaks have been attempting to book alternative trips. But many have found that the cost has soared by hundreds of pounds, with some packages even trebling in price.

While tourists stranded abroad by the collapse of XL continued to fly home yesterday, travel agents warned that demand was soaring and a lack of availability was leading to an increase in the price of holidays.

Mark Brock, associate director of Barrhead Travel, said: "We've had about 4000 people trying to rebook holidays and out of those we've rebooked about 500, but 250 have cancelled because we can't get them another holiday they can afford.

"The costs have been rising significantly - we have seen price increases of double or more."

Holidaymakers whose trips are covered by the Air Travel Organisers' Licensing (Atol) scheme, run by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), will receive a full refund on the cost of their break, but with prices for replacement trips during the October school holiday rising, some people will be unable to afford one.

In one case, the cost of a seven-day break to a hotel in Ibiza had been advertised for £260 per person at the start of September. By last night, the same holiday cost £770 per person.

Mr Brock said that, even after the October break, average prices for holidays were expected to remain higher than before XL's collapse. He added: "The prices will come down again, but they will not be as low as they were before - there was overcapacity in the market then, but there is now undercapacity.

"People are wanting to book with established brands and are very wary of booking with brands they are not familiar with, especially during the credit crunch."

As more of the 90,000 holidaymakers stranded by the collapse of XL flew back to Britain yesterday, fears were raised that the airline's £42m Atol bond would not be enough to cover all refunds and flights home.

That means the CAA will have to use the Air Travel Trust Fund as a back-up funding source. Customers who booked flights directly with XL Airways and paid with a debit card may not be eligible for compensation.

A CAA spokesman said: "A couple of years ago we did recommend that all air travel should be protected in some way, but the government rejected the idea."

Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly yesterday met CAA staff dealing with the fallout of the XL collapse when she visited the authority's headquarters in London.

She said: "I have a great deal of sympathy for both customers and employees of XL and I wanted to visit the team at the CAA and personally thank them for their hard work co-ordinating this huge repatriation effort.

"The CAA have a wealth of experience in dealing with these matters and I'd like to thank them and the travel industry for the positive way they have reacted to this situation."

Elsewhere in the aviation industry, talks were continuing last night to try to sort out a rescue package for Italian airline Alitalia.

Full Story: http://www.theherald.co.uk/news/news/display.var.2446990.0.Firms_collapse_hits_the_price_of_holidays.php

Linkback - Firms’ collapse hits the price of holidays
]]> 9/17/2008 5:56:56 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4834 4834
Linkback - Gran Anfi proposed visit
]]> 9/16/2008 9:43:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4833 4833
Linkback - RCI resorts near Universal studios orlando
]]> 9/16/2008 6:22:38 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4832 4832 Has anyone received this years maintenance bill for Tenerife Royal Gardens?

I seem to recall that we paid in around July last year, and I haven't received anything for this year. Our week is wk51, so we have yet to use this year.

thanks in advance
J

Linkback - Tenerife Royal Gardens Maintenance 2008
]]> 9/16/2008 10:39:29 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4831 4831
I have been looking on the DRI Forum - yes, the official one, not Joe's - and I have seen a topic that has "caught my eye". You can all see it word-for-word for yourselves by going on to the official site in the "Ask your Member Directors" section (an obvious misnomer there), but the gist is:

Member 1: "Spent yesterday at Pine Lake. Enquired about last minute bookings in studio. Quoted £100 per night for members only. Pricey but probably worth it. Got home. Went on web. Expedia offer studio at £68. Why do members pay more?"

Kim (great gal) in Customer Services: "This accommodation not part of THE Club inventory. Accommodation owned by ourselves, we pay maintenance on. Unoccupied so placed them for rent to get some revenue back. Fixed week owners do this. Expedia don't have priority over members."

Member 2: "Is there any vetting of such purchasers buying in such an 'anonymous' forum as Expedia? Major appeal of DRI resorts is their exclusiveness. Know that fellow guests will be approved club members or their guests. If "all and sundry" can buy a week at reduced prices devalues holiday experience that required substantial investment."

Ben (DRI moderator): " We maintain standards and actively manage inappropriate behaviour. If anyone - member or guest - breached rules, appropriate action taken. Not possible to vet anyone before they join THE Club or stay as guest."

Member 3: Isn't it good idea to sell these nights yourself to members using DRI website as first resort? No Expedia commission to pay."

I won't bother with the rest because it tends to go "off subject",

So what do you think?

As a first stab, let me say I do not in any way agree with the line adopted by DRI. I think that the responses from Kim and Ben are -frankly - pitiful. In no way does Kim's response explain why, as members, we have paid substantial sums to join in the first place but are then expected to pay nearly 50% more than any Tom (sorry mate), Dick or Harry who comes off the street for a week away. And as for Ben's response, that makes Kim's seem acceptable.

OK, so when a member goes to a DRI resort for the first time you don't know whether or not they are responsible people who will show respect for the accommodation or their fellow members. But, over time, a picture is built up and after a few holidays you know if the member is acceptable. But, if an "Expedia" client turns up and plays up, what can you do? Throw them out after they have caused mayhem and ban them in future. Ban who? How? What is going to stop them coming back again? Or going to another DRI resort? Or booking under another name?

Sorry, but Ben's response annoys me! And neither Kim nor Ben address the original question - why is it cheaper to book through Expedia? So where are the promised member perks in this instance? We all know the sensible way to treat DRI in this instance is to book through Expedia and act as if we are not members. What a strange state of affairs!

So why haven't I posted this on the DRI Forum? Simple, on the last 2 occasions I have written to them, they have sent me an initial response to my email address with the promise of more to follow. My postings have not subsequently appeared on the Forum and they have never followed up.

Any takers?


Linkback - Resorts freely available on Expedia
]]> 9/15/2008 7:02:32 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4830 4830
Linkback - MJD Estates
]]> 9/15/2008 2:57:57 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4829 4829 Just been looking to get return transfers from the airport to Marbella in a few weeks time and the price for 7 of us is nearly the price of hiring a Mercedes Vito 9-seater.
Found one place that has a reasonable price of £120 but waiting to have that price confirmed.
Can't believe that some places were wanting over £200!!
Anyone else think this is over-priced?

Linkback - Malaga Airport Transfers
]]> 9/15/2008 1:43:16 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4828 4828
Includes:
2 bedroom and 3 baths (with Jacuzzi bathtub and bidet)
Private swimming pool
Patio Jacuzzi
Marble bathrooms
Designer kitchen

Send us an email if interested. For more information on the resort, please go to [url]http://www.wyndham.com/hotels/QSMSC/main.wnt[/url].

Linkback - US couple selling timeshare in St Maarten, N
]]> 9/15/2008 1:24:50 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4827 4827 Guess what it is:




7 points for a correct answer

Answer to be revealed 21st September unless correctly guessed beforehand.


Linkback - Guess what it is - 14 September
]]> 9/14/2008 5:27:29 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4826 4826 The price of flights and holidays has suddenly rocketed.
Just who are the companies profiteering out of the collapse of XL Leisure?
Perhaps if they are named and shamed on a few of the holiday websites such as this one, they may not be so keen to be seen to be cashing in on the situation.

Linkback - Profiteers
]]> 9/14/2008 3:05:51 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4825 4825
Despite the herculean scale of the task, the CAA promised that all passengers would be home on their original return dates or, at worst, the next day on specially commissioned "repatriation flights". Peter Wyatt, XL's chief executive, said the £20 million operation would be "the most challenging ever undertaken".

Specially chartered flights have been brought in, while spare seats on already scheduled flights are also being used to bring passengers back to the UK.

Alongside the 75,000 customers covered by Air Travel Organisers' Licensing - that covers overseas package-tour passengers - room will also be available for the 10,000 people who booked XL flights independently, although they will have to pay for the privilege as customers who booked using debit cards do not have insurance cover, sometimes to avoid an extra fee levied on credit-card users.

Tavish Scott, leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, has called for an end to the extra administration fee which is often charged if customers choose to pay for items such as flights with a credit card as opposed to a debit card.

He said: "Paying for holidays and flights with a credit card gives a level of insurance which debit cards do not offer. However, many people choose to make their booking with a debit card because they would face an extra charge for administration if they used their credit card."

In Glasgow, flights from Turkish airline Freebird replaced journeys to and from Dalaman in Turkey and Tenerife. Most flights went out within hours of the original ones.

Many airlines, including easyJet, which offered a £75 reduction on flights for XL customers, were helping the rescue effort, but it was Richard Branson who has proved to be the saviour for many, offering cut-price or free flights on Virgin. About 300 XL customers were flown in to Manchester from Orlando on a Virgin plane, with more flights last night and today. The airline said that XL passengers who find themselves stuck at airports in Florida and the Caribbean will be offered special one-way fares to fly home until the end of September.

The Virgin boss called yesterday for an urgent review of rules governing failed airlines in light of the XL fiasco.

Branson said new procedures should be brought in to allow a collapsed firm's fleet of planes to continue to fly under the watch of the aviation regulator, making for less disruption across the industry.

Branson said: "It does seem that there should be an urgent review, if there are going to be more airlines and tour operator casualties, of the way in which the rescue operation is conducted.

"It does not make sense for aircraft to be lying idle at UK airports when they should be used to bring back stranded passengers of that airline."

Kayley Hunter and her two friends flew home from Orlando, Florida, with Virgin after being informed of XL's collapse by their tour operator.

The 23-year-old legal adviser from Darlington said: "Thank you to Richard Branson and his team, you were fantastic."

Monarch Airlines is also helping with the repatriation effort: seven specially chartered fights arrived into Gatwick airport from Tenerife during the early hours of yesterday morning, along with one from Orlando.

At Gatwick airport on a specially chartered Monarch Airlines flight from Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt, Alison Hill spoke of her relief at being back.

The 37-year-old from Redditch, Worcestershire said she was left in tears.Ms Hill said: "No-one actually told me, I had to find it out for myself. I spent the whole day in tears in reception with a very unhappy two-year-old, wondering if I was ever going to get home.

"We were meant to leave at 11pm and ended up getting this flight at 3.30am, so you could say we were one of the lucky ones."

Some 200,000 people have seen future holiday plans go up in smoke as a result of the tour operator's collapse.

Barrhead Travel is trying to mop up after XL's collapse, rebooking holidays by using "deeds of assignment", which means it pays for a replacement holiday and then claims back the money from the CAA, or selling customers new holidays.

Bill Munro, Barrhead's chief executive, said that some companies are bumping up prices. He added: "We help where we can. But it's a huge exercise, bundling people onto planes and sending them home. But there's even more people that were waiting to go out, who'd been saving up all year. We've been able to help by rebooking a lot of them. Some people are trying to capitalse on other people's misfortune by charging an extra £50 or £100 a head for a flight.

"Now they're charging £600 for a week's self catering, when two days ago it was £200. Some people might say it's market forces; others would say it was capitalising. Prices shot up overnight. The big airlines have all put their prices up. Some of the air fares are now ridiculous.

"A flight to Tenerife on October 2 now costs £705, whereas before it would have been £250-£300."

http://www.sundayherald.com/news/heraldnews/display.var.2446144.0.the_holiday_horror_story.php


Linkback - The holiday horror story - XL collapse
]]> 9/14/2008 11:16:02 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4824 4824
Not long ago, we were a nation of jet-setters, paying peanuts for seats and larging it across Europe with our bulletproof currency. Now we’re broke, but that doesn’t mean we want to stay indoors. We still want holidays, but we’d rather not pay full price for them. So, this week, I’ve been hunting for bargains - and by bargains, I mean bargains.

I don’t mean “pay for four nights, get one free” offers, or “one kid stays free if he sleeps in the bath” deals, or “destroy your marriage by booking a mystery hotel because it’s cheap” promotions. I want good stuff, dirt cheap, and eBay says it’s the place to find it.

The auction site has long fancied itself as an online travel agency, and has been running trials in Germany of software that will allow bidders to put together their own holidays within the website. The technology won’t be available in the UK until next year at the earliest, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a bargain in the meantime.

When I looked, eBay’s travel section was pregnant with promise, listing 1,931 accommodation offers, 126 air tickets, 137 package deals and 511 short breaks. The search, though, was far from straightforward.

The first bargain I found was a week for four in the Canaries, including flights and transfers, going for £16.75, with just 12 minutes to seal the deal. The ad showed a picture of paradise - turquoise pool, palm trees and a cloudless sky - but closer examination revealed the tiny caption “Picture for illustration only”. The sales blurb set off more alarm bells. “This Is a Great Offer,” it insisted. “All You Will Have to Pay Is a £39 Per Person Booking Fee and Your Own Airport Taxes and Travel Insurance.”

Further examination revealed that the product up for grabs was “an unclaimed prize from a national promotion”. In other words, a scratch card. It’s a nice little earner: you collect the free scratch cards that fall out of magazines and sell them, sometimes for hundreds of pounds, to the desperate and gullible.

“There are almost always conditions that mitigate against these prizes being dream holidays,” says Jim Potts, of Lan-caster Trading Services. “People who have won cruises discover they’re sharing a cabin with a stranger unless they pay a huge supplement or winners from Somerset are told their flight goes from Glasgow. Availability is limited to the least desirable periods and many trips are linked to timeshare presentations. Claiming these prizes is like playing Russian roulette.”

When I spoke to eBay about the scratch-card holidays, it expressed surprise and pledged to investigate the matter with a view to suspending the sellers. I decided to let the Canaries dream holiday go. It sold to some other poor sap for £18.

My next eBay discovery looked more promising. For a Buy It Now price (see below) of just 99p, I could buy details of a “secret travel agent’s website” that would guarantee me holidays abroad for just £40. The transaction was like a cold-war dead-letter drop: I paid the cash via PayPal and waited for the secret web address to be sent to my inbox. It’s not often eBay can make you feel like Harry Lime.

In the meantime, I found a seller in Southport who was shifting vouchers entitling the bearer to “Stay anywhere in top European resorts”. With 45 minutes to go, the price in the eBay auction stood at £5.50. The voucher had “a face value of £475”, said the description, but it was another scam. It turned out that I’d need to pay £336 - on top of the booking fee, the flights, the taxes and whatever I ended up paying for the £475 voucher - to secure my holiday.

Then I found a Tuscan villa, just outside Lucca, going for 99p a night, with two days of the auction left and no bidders. If you booked this property via the website, it would cost £380 for the week, so why was Tuscan Fine Villas selling it so cheaply? The offer turned out to be less generous than it looked.

“The price is correct at 99p for one night, plus cleaning and utilities,” the agency said. “The hope is that people will take extra nights at £46 each.” I hadn’t noticed that in the small print - but still, worth thinking about for a cheapo weekend.

Ignoring a wily eBayer selling a $100 note for £58.53 - 7p more than it would cost from Travelex - I stumbled across a week for two in a guesthouse in the Gorce National Park, Poland, for £57, with three bids so far and a day to go. The deal included flights, transfers and food. Too good to be true? Glowing testimonials for the seller, Alternative Holidays (www.alternativepoland.com ), from 264 satisfied customers suggested otherwise.

Suddenly, I was sniffing out deals like a Piedmont truffle hound. Four nights in a suite in Riad Mur Akush, in Marrakesh, was waiting for the gavel’s crack at £79. The riad’s website (www.riadmurakush.com ) had the same stay for £286. Then I found a lovely-looking apartment in the Alpine village of Sainte Foy, sleeping eight, in the sellout spring half-term week, up for grabs at the Buy It Now price of £1,399. Identical properties in the same building for the same week were on sale elsewhere for £2,800.

There was a two-night break for two in Oslo’s Radisson SAS hotel for £55, with two bidding on it and just six hours to go. A last-minute bidding war took it to £107 - still a steal, as the same stay, booked through the hotel’s website, was £321. Other Radisson lots included a weekend in Berlin at £155 - official price £577 - with one day to go. Radisson confirmed that these deals were for real, but said the promotion is coming to an end.

WHERE ELSE should bargain-hunters be searching? You could try the Thomson auction site (www.thomsonauctions.co.uk ), where the holiday giant unloads its unsold stock. Last week, a sevennight stay for two in Minorca went for £300. A sordid parade of booking fees, auction charges and other costs added £100 to the price, but if I’d booked the same holiday on Thomson’s main website, it would have cost £580.

If online auctions aren’t your thing, look instead at the holiday website Travelzoo (www.travelzoo.co.uk ). Last week, it had a 14-night trip to Goa for £539pp, including flights, and an 11-night holiday on St Lucia with Hayes & Jarvis for £429pp - less than half the list price of £886.

Finally, there’s that “secret travel agent’s website” I bought for 99p. You thought it was going to be rubbish, didn’t you, but it’s actually rather good, listing not one but 23 websites offering discounted holidays and low-cost flights. There’s little on eBay that you couldn’t find by yourself on Google, but the “secret travel agent’s website”, called Comtec, was new to me - and, after logging on, I found some serious deals, including a week on Diani beach, in Kenya, for £537pp with Monarch and seven nights in Barbados for £451pp with Virgin Holidays. I can’t pass on the address, though, because it really is a secret.

“That website is a product that is sold to travel companies under licence,” said Comtec’s rather suspicious sales and marketing director. “You shouldn’t have it.” I’ll delete it, then, but not before I’ve found a cheap weekend in Vienna.

Top tips for eBayers

1You need to register at www.ebay.co.uk before you can bid. Packages, accommodation and flights are sold either at a fixed Buy It Now price or as an auction-style listing in which the highest bidder wins. Be prepared for most bids to happen in the last minute.

2If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Reread the small print and be sure you know exactly what’s on offer. Are you dealing directly with the supplier or not? Are flights included? Is the price for the entire stay, or is it merely a deposit? Are you buying a scratch card?

3If you buy transferable air tickets, be aware that the airlines can charge up to £80 for name changes.

4If a deal goes wrong, your chances of compensation are limited. If pushed, eBay offers a maximum of £120 in compensation, less £15 for “processing costs”. Comparable deals can be found at listings websites such as www.travelzoo.com .

5Before bidding, read seller feedback and cross-reference with other sources, such as www.tripadvisor.co.uk or www.holidaywatchdog.com .

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/travel/news/article4740497.ece


Linkback - Is eBay a bargain for cheap holidays?
]]> 9/14/2008 11:11:08 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4823 4823 My worries are being pressured about lifetime whilst on free holiday?
How much are the four weeks with Interval actually going to cost?
That these hols may actually work out more expensive?
We are not tied to school hols and can book last minute but would really appreciate some thoughts from people who have been involved.
Our purchase agreement does state 14 days cooling off period so I am nearly pen in hand ready to cancel. Has anybody actually cancelled and was it painless?
Thanks.

Linkback - TO CANCEL OR NOT?
]]> 9/13/2008 3:38:50 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4822 4822 first DRI Member Presentation.

Taking place at Broome Park Golf & Country Club on Tuesday 23rd
September 2008, we hope this pilot programme will be the first of many
member events to be held at various destinations throughout our DRI
resort collections.

The DRI Member Presentation will be relaxation…simplified. During our
two-hour sessions, (at 11am and 3pm) we will focus on the essential
topics that we hope will assist you with getting the most from the
simplicity, choice and comfort that we strive to provide to each
member, every time. Those topics include member benefits, how the
website and your online account works, how to make an II exchange and
get the most out of your Gold membership plus an easy to understand
explanation on the structure of the Diamond Resorts Collections and
THE ClubSM.

There are a total of 50 places available at each of the two friendly
and informal sessions and invitation is on a first come, first-served
basis.

Completely free of charge, you may reserve your ticket by calling
01524 65341 (Mon-Fri 9-5pm) or by sending an email to
samantha.harwood@... (we cannot print the full email address without attracting spammers so anyone unsure of the address please pm DRI forums moderator)

When emailing
please indicate the following:

Number of tickets (maximum two)
First and Last name of primary membership
Your membership number
Your Postcode
Your telephone number
Looking forward to meeting you!

Sarah Hulme
VP Global Club Operations

Patrick Duffy
Chief Experience Officer



Linkback - DRI announce the first roadshow details
]]> 9/13/2008 1:40:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4821 4821

The UK aviation watchdog is coordinating a massive airlift with airlines and tour operators today after the XL collapse left at least 85,000 holidaymakers stranded abroad in the US, the Caribbean and Europe.

The Civil Aviation Authority is chartering planes from airlines, lease companies and tour companies after Britain's third-largest tour operator entered administration, leaving a further 200,000 people with holiday bookings that are now worthless.

The boss of Europe's largest tour operator, TUI Travel, urged the government to impose a £1 rescue levy on all airline tickets after it emerged that 10,000 of the stranded holidaymakers will not receive compensation or a replacement flight home because they are not covered by the tour industry compensation scheme.

Around 75,000 XL customers will be flown home by the CAA, airlines and tour operators because they are protected by ATOL, a fund that all UK holiday companies are required to pay into. However, the 10,000 people who booked flights through XL's charter subsidiary XL Airlines must pay for their flight home, as Virgin Atlantic warned that any customers stranded in Florida or the Caribbean who are not covered by ATOL face several days of delays because flights are fully booked.

"These customers probably thought they were protected and that is ridiculous. There will be more airline failures because they cannot cope with this pressure," said Peter Long, TUI Travel chief executive. Long added that the ATOL scheme was designed to cope with an XL-scale collapse but would be severely depleted. "It will have to be rebuilt," he said.

The rescue of XL customers in Mediterranean resorts is being led by TUI subsidiaries Thomson and First Choice in partnership with rival Thomas Cook, who have used XL Airways as the carrier for thousands of holiday packages. Virgin Atlantic is leading efforts to repatriate holidaymakers in Orlando, Florida, and the Caribbean.

The CAA said around 25,000 XL Airways passengers had been booked on to flights through tour operators, who are legally obliged to find them alternative flights home.

The CAA said it was coordinating the return of 50,000 holidaymakers who had booked packages with XL and have no flight home. "We are chartering airlines from other charter companies and tour operators, where they have capacity," said a CAA spokesman. The CAA's flight and hotel costs will be covered by the ATOL scheme, the watchdog added. However, the 10,000 people who booked direct flights with XL Airways but had no holiday package will have to wait at the back of the queue, teh CAA said.

"If there are any tickets available we will get them onboard these aircraft, with fares at the minimal cost price. But there is no guarantee that the CAA will offer them seats."

Paul Charles, Virgin Atlantic's director of communications, said: "Our scheduled flights are full. It will be difficult to bring people home over the next few days. There is also the question of where will they stay the night and who will pay for the accomodation."

Ryanair has offered an airplane, with crew, to the CAA and Flybe and easyJet were offering special fares to stranded passengers this morning. British Airways is sending a Boeing 777 to Orlando this afternoon to pick up 220 XL customers.

The CAA added that it would pay the accommodation costs of travellers covered by the ATOL scheme who were due to fly back today or over the weekend. A spokesman said that many of the 85,000 XL customers abroad currently will still be on holiday and will not be due home soon.

"If you arrived in Tenerife three days ago and your holiday is for two weeks, the flight the CAA has booked will be as near as possible to your scheduled departure. You will not be coming back any earlier or any later." In a move to reassure stranded holidaymakers who are due home over the next 48 hours he said: "The CAA will provide them with hotel and putting them up. We pay tour operators to act on our behalf and look after them."

Holidaymakers making their way home from Spain today were greeted with chaotic scenes. There were a total of 1,538 places on XL Leisure flights to and from Tenerife Sur airport. Eight flights were arriving and eight were due to leave with passengers travelling through Gatwick, Manchester, Glasgow, Bristol East Midlands and Newcastle airports.

A crisis meeting is to be held later today at the airport to discuss what can be done for the passengers.

The CAA is working to find places on other flights to get the affected passengers home from Tenerife and other Spanish locations, said Nani Dominguez, a spokesman for Aena, the Spanish airports' operator.

Alberto Martin-Carbagal, Aena spokesman at Tenerife Sur, said: "At present most of those affected do not seem that angry. But if no places can be found for them to return to Britain then we will have to find rooms in hotels. We are helping out but it is the responsibility of the CAA to get these people home."

Two flights from Reus, in Catalonia, thought to be to Ireland, and two in Menorca to British destinations, were cancelled. A British Embassy spokesman in Madrid said: "We have had quite a few calls into the consulates in Las Palmas in Gran Canaria and Alicante. We are offering consulate help."

Linkback - XL collapse-10,000 passengers must pay to fly home
]]> 9/12/2008 7:07:11 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4820 4820
It would appear that some people decide to either not read or ignore rules around here.

Plain and simple - I WILL NOT TOLERATE IT

The person involved in the latest issue has been removed, banned, posts deleted and their donation refunded.

I kindly request that they do not come here again !

And before the authoritarians start get on their damn high horses about free speech - I try and allow it as much as possible as long as it does not 1. Break any laws, 2. Break any of MY rules, 3. Does not blacken the name of Timesharetalk that I have spent the last god knows how many years building up out of my own time and at my own expenses.


Timesharetalk hereby retracts any comments accusing Bogland of threatening other users and does not associate itself with any of the said comments.

Linkback - Let this be a warning to others
]]> 9/12/2008 6:46:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4819 4819 Not a name I recognise. Does not come up on a 'Search' by name.

Anybody heard of it or any experience of dealing with please?
(When they have an offer they will call me back etc etc !!!)

The difference here is that they have been told by me: quote 'No upfront fees! I await there response (if any) with baited breath! Cheers. TM

Linkback - Dandelion Investments SL
]]> 9/12/2008 5:07:40 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4818 4818
Linkback - Carpe Diem
]]> 9/12/2008 4:30:12 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4817 4817
My "In Law's" have been scammed by Rainbow Solutions Marketing out of 1800 Euros in July and when they were targeted again this week by Rainbow they told them they weren't getting any more money. Within a couple of hours a "solicitor" rang saying they had a cheque for over £12k for them as the timeshare had, in fact, been sold. I Checked out the Solicitor

http://www.pedromoralesreyes.com

and if you view the website it all looks pretty legit. (But I suppose it would!)

He said he would send the cheque but as the IL's are not Spanish residents they needed to pay £2k to the Spanish tax office for Capital Gains (16% apparently) for the cheque to be released or they could go to Granada and pick the cheque up in person. This Solicitor has rang a few times since saying he was wanting to get the matter resolved

I posed as my Father In Law when he rang back yesterday and Mr Morales mentioned a scam had been ongoing which the Spanish Government had intercepted and that's why he was involved and we are definitely going to get the money and he would send us the bank account details of the Spanish VAT Office for us to pay what we owed them. He said he'd never heard of Rainbow Solutions Marketing.

After me (as my Father in Law) telling him I simply had no more money to give out and suggesting they simply deduct what is owed he said that they can't as the cheque is payable to us. I wasn’t going to move on sending money so he said that he’d “ask” the VAT office to reconsider taking the money direct and get back to us in 10-12 weeks because "that's how long it takes".

I can't help but smell a rat here so has anyone had any dealings with this Morales guy? Is it simply another scam to get a further £2k out of my ILs?


Linkback - Rainbow Solutions and Solicitor Pedro Morales reye
]]> 9/12/2008 12:17:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4816 4816 So far this year, as many as five airline companies operating from the UK have failed, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and out of pocket. And with the current fragile state of the airline industry, coupled with increasing fuel costs and looming recession, aviation experts are warning consumers to brace themselves for more bad news.

While there are some safety nets in place that will provide passengers with help and compensation when an airline goes bankrupt there are circumstances where you could find you’re unprotected if the worst happens. So what can you do to make sure you’re not caught out?

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) scheme known as ATOL (Air Travel Organiser’s Licence) gives financial protection on flights which form part of a package – where accommodation and travel are combined in one transaction – if bought through a licensed agent or airline. If the ATOL-holder goes out of business, the CAA will give a full refund to holidaymakers who have yet to travel, or arrange for those stuck abroad to fly home, having completed their holiday. A spokesman for the CAA says its refund process takes between six and eight weeks, depending on the claim.

This scheme isn’t limited to package holidays. Passengers who have bought a seat-only fare on a charter airline should also be protected by this licence (for the flight only) and the protection can extend to scheduled flights bought through licensed travel agents.

However, the contract must be with the agent rather than with the airline and you have to make sure your confirmation includes an ATOL number together with the travel company’s name (see below).

But if you buy a scheduled flight straight from the airline and it subsequently goes bust, the situation is less straightforward. In this case there is no scheme set up either by the CAA or any other body to protect money or administer claims. It’s up to you to make sure you’ve protected your money and your safeguards will depend on the way you paid for the flight, or on the small print in your travel insurance policy.

If you paid by credit card, and the fare was more than £100 you should be protected under the terms of the Credit Act and should contact your credit card issuer for a refund. This protection applies to some debit cards (under their own rules), but by no means all, so you may feel that the fee charged by airlines for credit card transactions is worth paying for the extra protection it affords.

Some fare agents include “scheduled airline failure insurance”, usually at the cost of a few pounds which are added to the fare price. Alternatively, airline failure may be covered on your regular travel insurance policy – but there’s no guarantee of this. Neither of the two biggest travel specialist insurers, Direct Travel and Preferential, offer this protection as standard.

However, Direct Travel does sell an enhanced “Backpacker” policy which provides up to £1,000 cover if a scheduled airline goes bankrupt and it’s considering including this benefit in other policies in the future.

If you haven’t safeguarded yourself in the ways outlined above, you’ll be an “unsecured creditor” and to get your money back, you’ll have to contact the bankruptcy administrator through The Insolvency Service (020 7291 6895; www.insolvency.gov.uk). But you’ll have a fight to get back even a fraction of your money. So if you’re booking a flight always bear the following in mind:

As well as looking for the ATOL logo on brochures and websites, check whether an operator or agent has an up-to-date ATOL licence by contacting the CAA (020 7453 6430; www.atol.org.uk). The website lists current licence-holders.

Check with your travel company that all your holiday arrangements are covered by its ATOL and ensure your invoice includes the ATOL number; if it doesn’t you may not be protected.
Has your agent arranged separate scheduled airline failure insurance (this is usually abbreviated to SAFI)?

Buy scheduled flights through a reputable agent such as Trailfinders who will liaise with the airline on your behalf, guaranteeing to arrange alternative flights or a full refund at no extra cost.

Check cancellation conditions on accommodation and car hire if you are tying these in with a scheduled flight: if the airline fails and you are unable to travel, they are unlikely to be covered.

Details of protection offered by credit cards at www.consumerdirect.gov.uk.

By Sophie Butler

Full story: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/columnists/sophiebutler/2705940/Travel-advice-Dont-get-stranded-if-your-airline-fails.html

Linkback - Travel: Don't get stranded if your airline fails
]]> 9/12/2008 6:58:27 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4815 4815
Thousands of holidaymakers could find themselves stranded abroad today with XL Leisure Group, Britain’s third biggest travel company, on the verge of collapse.

Last month XL Airways cancelled all its flights to the Caribbean from the beginning of November

The demise of the tour operator threatens to cause travel misery with customers booking flights through XL Airways, the UK airline, likely to lose their money.

It was reported to have filed for administration.

It is the latest setback for holidaymakers, almost 2,500 of whom were stranded when package holiday firm Seguro collapsed on Wednesday.

The companies collapsed after failing to cope with high fuel costs and the economic downturn which has led consumers to cut their spending on holidays.

Travel industry experts said those people who had booked holidays through tour operators should receive a refund but some of those booking flights direct through XL Airways are likely to lose out.

Customers who bought flights with credit cards should be insured but debit cards users could find themselves out of pocket.

XL Airways flies to more than 50 destinations across the world, including Europe, North Africa and the US from a dozen airports in the UK.

Last month XL Airways cancelled all its flights to the Caribbean from the beginning of November.

The airline blamed rising fuel costs and the falling popularity of the routes.

The airline also announced it was cutting its daily scheduled service between Gatwick and Knock from the beginning of September.

It remains unclear what effect the administration will have on West Ham United, the Premiership football club which has a £2.5m-a-year shirt sponsorship deal with XL Leisure. The London-based club only signed the deal with XL last February.

XL underwent a management buyout in 2006, and quickly grew to become a big player in the UK holiday market, behind the two dominant firms TUI Travel and Thomas Cook.

The company is the third largest tour operating group in the UK, consisting of charter and scheduled airlines, holiday companies and flight-only tour operators.

The group sells holidays under a diverse range of brands including Kosmar, XL.com, Freedom Flights and Travel City Direct.

It made an operating loss in its last financial year to October 2007. Figures filed at Companies House revealed that net liabilities increased from £8m to £59m during the period. The money owed to creditors grew from £114m to £205m.

Before its collapse, more than 17,000 people had made advance bookings with Seguro, which sold holidays and flights to Spain, Portugal and The Canaries.

Seguro, which also traded as Seguro Holidays and Kent Escapes, sold mainly through travel agents and those people who booked a package holiday will be protected by the Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing (Atol) system.

Travel companies in the Atol scheme provide the Civil Aviation Authroity with a financial guarantee bond which can be used to bring customers home from abroad and compensate those with future bookings.

The company’s collapse came after Zoom, the low-cost transatlantic airline, went into administration last month. The failure left hundreds of people stranded with about 40,000 losing bookings. Zoom blamed its failure on the “horrendous” price of jet fuel.

Fellow carriers including Maxjet, Eos, Silverjet and Oasis Hong Kong Airlines have also gone under this year.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travelnews/2801371/Thousands-of-holidaymakers-may-be-stranded-as-travel-company-XL-collapses.html


Linkback - Travel company XL 'collapses'
]]> 9/12/2008 6:51:37 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4814 4814
Dover, NH - September 12, 2008 -- Sell My Timeshare NOW LLC adds to its growing list of accomplishments, earning Inc.com's recognition as the fastest growing, privately held timeshare advertising and marketing company in the United States for 2008.

Soon to celebrate its five-year anniversary, the timeshare resales advertising and marketing company began with only three employees. Rapid growth has taken Sell My Timeshare NOW to more than 130 employees and an average of over a million dollars per day in offers to buy or rent timeshare. The company demonstrated a business growth rate of 520.9 percent between 2004 and 2007. Jason Tremblay, founder and CEO says, "Sell My Timeshare NOW is growing because consumers need and want to be able to buy, rent, or sell timeshares on the resale market."

Inc.com honored Sell My Timeshare NOW as number 44 on the Top 100 list of Advertising and Marketing companies nationwide and number 637 overall on the Inc. 5000 list of over 7 million privately held companies. The company ranked as the second fastest growing business in any field in the state of New Hampshire and Sell My Timeshare NOW also ranked number 21 among the Top 100 Businesses in the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, MA-NH metro area.

As Tremblay explains, "We established Sell My Timeshare NOW to provide timeshare owners a simple, efficient, and reliable way to advertise their timeshare resales to a global marketplace of interested buyers."

Each day more than 76,000 visitors on average come to the company's website interested in advertising their timeshare for sale or rent or in buying or renting a resale timeshare. Heading into the Labor Day weekend, offers to buy or rent timeshares at SellMyTimeshareNOW.com totaled $320,296,963, which is already 17 percent ahead of the offer total for all of 2007.

Jason Tremblay is available for media interviews at (603) 516-0649 or by emailing steveluba(at)sellmytimesharenow.com

About Sell My Timeshare NOW LLC:

Sell My Timeshare NOW LLC is a privately held company that provides advertising and marketing for timeshare resales and timeshare rentals via the Internet. In 2007, Sell My Timeshare NOW presented its customers over $274 million in offers to buy or rent timeshares.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080911205/Latest/Sell-My-Timeshare-NOW-Listed-as-the-Fastest-Growing-Privately-Held-US-Timeshare-Advertising-Company.html


Linkback - Fastest Growing US Timeshare Advertising comp
]]> 9/12/2008 6:47:38 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4813 4813
Clueless

Linkback - TSxchange
]]> 9/11/2008 10:22:25 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4812 4812
Linkback - TSxchange
]]> 9/11/2008 8:30:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4811 4811
Linkback - pedro morales
]]> 9/11/2008 7:22:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4810 4810
Seguro Travel Limited and its subsidiary Seguro Aviation Limited which trade under the style Seguro Holidays and Kent Escapes ceased trading on 10 September 2008.

Customers who have booked to travel by air from 10 September onwards should refer to the Civil Aviation Authority website (www.atol.org.uk) where further advice is given.

The directors of the company deeply regret the closure of the business which has been brought about by the failure of Futura Airlines last weekend.

I hope no readers of this forum are affected by this, but if you are, I hope you are not too inconvenienced.

Regards
David


Linkback - Sugero Holidays, Kent Escapes and Futura Airlines
]]> 9/11/2008 12:47:25 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4809 4809
The opening that DRI has is at Club Regina for around 3,100-3,900 points. Seems like a fairly nice place.

II has a ton of places in PV that also seem nice, and operate from 2,100-2,800 points.

Is that typical? Why the difference? Should I do it now, or wait a little while?

But most importantly, does anyone have any reviews of any of these places?!? I'll be sure to post my review, but was hoping a little preview [:)]

Linkback - Puerto Vallarta - Club Regina?
]]> 9/11/2008 1:02:04 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4808 4808 There is an article about how best to use RCI points which some may be interested in having a look at.
Other than that there is nothing in there this month that floats my boat.
To view, you have to create a user name and password but nothing too exhausting.
http://www.ownersperspective.com/category/login/

Linkback - Owners Perspective Magazine
]]> 9/9/2008 6:27:14 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4807 4807
I have seen jobs advertised in Tenerife with Diamond Resorts. I was hoping to get some feedback from people as to their experiences.

I have what could be called "ignorant reservations" regards timeshare as never taken time to learn much about it as never had the need at all.

I want to live and work in Tenerife and if this is a repuatble and honest set-up then I would have no qualms working with them. This seems like the ideal forum to get genuine feedback.

Thanks

Linkback - Employment with Diamond Resorts
]]> 9/9/2008 1:54:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4806 4806 Guess what it is:



7 points for a correct answer

Answer to be revealed 14th September unless correctly guessed beforehand.





Linkback - Guess what it is - 7 September
]]> 9/8/2008 7:50:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4805 4805
Think about the economic climate this year:

* DRI fees up
* Airfares up
* Cost of living up
* Fuel up

Just about everything is up, so you can't afford to go away anyway! So you are going to be left not using your points. So what are the options?

* Save them to next year, unless they are already last year's in which case you lose them
* Use them, but you can't afford to go, so you book somewhere popular and then try to rent it

You don't have the option to use Diamond Selections on this year's points, so your choice is very limited. If I was in this position, I know what I would do! But this is selfish and removes the accommodation from genuine holiday makers, but then why should I care if I can get a chance of a payback on the maintenance fees?

The only way I can see out of this situation is for DRI to impose a "no show" penalty for bookings. It would be more risky to try to rent and might make people think twice about it. It is unlikely to help for this year but might mean that a lot of bookings are cancelled next year, thus putting them back in the system.

Regards
David

Linkback - Lack of availability this year and next
]]> 9/8/2008 5:23:28 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4804 4804 There's a separate section on the website for London with nothing in it and I can remember past II brochures containing quite a few in London.
I'm not thinking about going there, as it is my home town and I know enough people still there to not need hotels etc, just curious.

Linkback - London resorts
]]> 9/8/2008 10:01:18 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4803 4803 just been sucked into the club lacosta 3 yr deal,will i not get all that was promised,£13 all inclusive at shar , peak time availabilty, dream hols,no hassle over the next 3 yrs to buy?
thanks.[:0]

Linkback - Club lacosta
]]> 9/7/2008 4:02:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4802 4802
"Sandy has a proven track record of success in the industry," said James R. Danz, RRP, DRI's Chief Marketing Officer. "This includes promotions, lead generation, call center, mail programs, package sales, owner revisit, and referral and OPC operations for some of the biggest companies in the industry."

Most recently Sandy was a consultant with Princeton Resorts Group assisting in all marketing programs and was the National Director of Promotions with Preferred Equities Corporation.

"Sandy brings over 22 years of experience in the timeshare industry with a strong background in lead generation and all aspects of field marketing," said Simon Crawford-Welch, DRI's President & Chief Operating Officer. "She will be a strong asset to our company."

Diamond Resorts International®, with global headquarters in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest vacation ownership companies in the world with more than 110 branded and affiliated resorts and nearly 23,000 guest beds in 14 countries with destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to more than 370,000 owners and members through the branded service of more than 5,500 team members worldwide, Diamond Resorts International® is dedicated to providing its guests with effortless and relaxing vacation experiences every time, for a lifetime.

For more information, visit DiamondResorts.com




Linkback - Press release 7th september
]]> 9/7/2008 1:31:29 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4801 4801
But when it comes to holidays, we have done quite the opposite. Instead of staying at home and counting our coppers, more Britons have left their mounting fuel and food bills at home and travelled further afield than ever before.

The Association of British Travel Agents (Abta) reported that middle and long-haul travel have boomed in the past year, especially to the near east, while trips to Europe have remained static and even declined in areas such as Germany. Two hundred thousand more people travelled from the UK to Turkey, and an extra 100,000 visited Egypt this summer.

Leading tour company On The Go Travel recorded a 15% increase in travel to Egypt, Turkey and Russia this summer. Thomas Cook recorded similar figures, adding that bookings to Egypt this winter were up 25%.

Crucially,#8194;these#8194;destinations#8194;are outside the eurozone. Last week the pound hit its lowest point against the euro since the single currency was launched 10 years ago. A euro now costs 85p.

According to Abta, these recession-threatened times have ironically made us take holidays in even more exotic locations such as the near east - where the pound is strong against local currencies - that were previously seen as the preserve of the rich.

"Holidays are one of the last things that people will cut back on," said Frances Tuke, an Abta spokeswoman. "As time has gone on, flights have become cheaper and destinations have become more accessible. So now people regard travel as a necessity rather than a luxury.

"That certainly seems to be the case when you look at winter holidays, people are still holding on to them."

Bookings for snow sports holidays and destinations for people seeking winter sun are already 2% up on last year, according to Abta figures. Thomas Cook have recorded above-average#8194;bookings#8194;for#8194;next summer already.

"We#8194;have become much more adventurous travellers and are pushing boundaries," Tuke added. "And our members are expanding in their middle to long-haul areas. That is where they see the potential for growth."

On The Go Travel is one company benefiting from a strong euro. It doesn't organise trips to anywhere inside the eurozone.

Their guides in Egypt, Turkey, India, China and Russia have reported#8194;that#8194;a#8194;significant number#8194;of#8194;their#8194;customers chose their destination because of the weakness of the pound against the euro.

"From#8194;personal#8194;experience,#8194;I went on holiday to Greece and I was astonished how little money I got back for my pound - it was quite horrifying," said Pru Goudie, On The Go's marketing manager.

"So#8194;if#8194;you're#8194;taking#8194;a#8194;holiday#8194;in India, your money goes a long way. It certainly does in Egypt, it certainly does in Turkey, even in Russia. Russia is just relentless at the moment. Even with Moscow prices, our travellers dig out the places to eat that won't cost an arm and a leg."

The long-distance holiday is not the only growth area in a slowing economy. This week it was reported that the no-frills Beefeater and Brewers Fayre restaurants have experienced a 9% rise in business. Pub group JD Wetherspoon, which offers a burger, chips and a pint for £4.59, also reported a boost.

Halfords and Blacks Leisure both claimed a boom in camping equipment as people decide to exchange bed and breakfasts for canvas, while cheap but fashionable high street store H&M enjoyed a hike in sales.

http://www.sundayherald.com/news/heraldnews/display.var.2442299.0.pyramid_selling_how_the_credit_crunch_has_changed_our_summer_holidays.php


Linkback - How the credit crunch changed our summer hols
]]> 9/7/2008 10:51:41 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4800 4800
Greece's national carrier is under increasing financial pressure after a European Union court ruled in February that Greece had failed to recover some €130 million (US$185 million) in illegal subsidies paid to the airline.

"Regarding Olympic, the aim is to (create) a robust and competitive company which will retain its logo and name but will be free of debts and problems with the European Union," Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis said.

He made the remarks during an annual speech on the state of Greece's economy.

Karamanlis issued a similar pledge to restructure Greece's financially troubled National Railway Company, or OSE.

"Among our highest priorities is the (effort) to find a solution for Olympic Airlines and OSE," which he said together cost taxpayers at least €2.7 million (US$3.8 million) a day.

Olympic employs around 8,500 workers. Repeated efforts to restructure and privatize the company have failed. Local media reports maintain that about half of Olympic's staff will be axed.

Karamanlis, 51, was re-elected last year. But his conservative government is facing strong opposition from unions which argue that its financial and labor reforms are hurting low-income Greeks.

More 10,000 union-backed protesters rallied Saturday in Thessaloniki, Greece's second largest city, where Karamanlis gave his speech.

Karamanlis' problems have been heightened by the conservatives' slim majority of just two seats in parliament — allowing government dissenters to publicly doubt Karamanlis' decisions with impunity.

But in Saturday's speech, Karamanlis staunchly defended his government's financial performance. He said Greece had largely weather the global financial downturn with a modest drop in economic growth, from a projected 4 percent GDP increase to a 3.5 percent increase on an annual basis in the first six months of the year.

Key for economic stability, he said, were two major pipeline deals signed in the past year: One project that will eventually carry gas from Azerbaijan across Turkey and Greece to Italy, and Greek participation in Russia's South Stream pipeline project.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/09/06/business/EU-Greece-Economy.php


Linkback - Greek pm promises to keep olympic airlines flying
]]> 9/7/2008 10:47:40 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4799 4799
Crawley-based Pure Flights and the Van Haydon Travel company of Leicester both ceased trading earlier this week.

Reductions in service also had an impact on UK travellers this week. First Choice withdrew services to the Bahamas because of a lack of demand and Virgin Atlantic is reducing its flight frequency on the Washington, New York, Caribbean and Bombay routes. XL Leisure, the UK’s third-largest holiday operator, has announced that it is engaged in urgent discussions about refinancing.

These are the latest in a series of travel companies facing severe financial difficulties. Last week, trans-Atlantic budget carrier Zoom Airlines folded, as did the Bristol-based stag party company, Brilliant Weekends. Two specialists in Mediterranean holidays, Greece and Cyprus Direct, as well as Irish-based Great Escapes have also become victims of the current economic climate.

The demise of Zoom raised renewed demands for scheduled carriers to be brought into the ATOL consumer protection programme.

The Association of International Tour Operators (AITO) and the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) both said the current financial difficulties facing airlines has raised the urgency of providing protection for all passengers, and not only those who made their bookings through tour operators.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/uk-travel-company-collapses-continue-5633573.html


Linkback - Uk travel company collapses continue
]]> 9/7/2008 10:37:40 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4798 4798
At one time, choosing a holiday was a no-brainer. The only question anybody asked was: “Where are you off to?” Now, of course, other concerns whisper in our ears. How green is the holiday? How ethical?

Is my cash supporting some despotic regime? Will I destroy an area of rainforest the size of Shropshire every time I take a shower? Is the hotel stealing the locals’ drinking water for its golf course? In these days of greenwash and hogwash, it is hard to be certain of the answers.

However, help might be at hand. Every three years, Ethical Traveler (ET), an American grass-roots amalgam of tour operators, travel agents and outfitters, publishes a list of the top 10 ethical destinations, with a focus on developing countries. It analyses more than 70 nations, focusing on each one’s commitment to the environment, social welfare and human-rights record.

ET admits that none of its winners is perfect. Bulgaria, for instance, has huge corruption issues and has suffered a rash of unregulated construction; ET is reconsidering its inclusion. With the value of oil and mineral reserves soaring, some countries, such as Argentina, are aggressively expanding exploration.

As America has found in Alaska, oil and wilderness protection don’t always mix. South Africa has hardly covered itself in glory with its treatment of Zimbabwean immigrants.

Bolivia has social issues because of its historical treatment of indigenous people (although having an Amerindian president has helped). Amnesty International has highlighted indigenous land rights as a source of unrest (and sometimes repression) in Chile.

So, a few of 2008’s inclusions may cause jaws to drop, but that doesn’t mean ET’s effort to highlight excellence isn’t worth making.

Each country also has individual pockets of excellence, where tour operators, hotel owners and the locals are working together to make sure they don’t kill what could be the golden goose of ecotourism. So, here are the 10 finalists, along with some ideas for sampling them yourselves in ways that don’t cost the earth.

Unless stated, packages are per person and include flights

ARGENTINA Ethical Traveler says: “Scores high for its efforts to build an attractive and sustainable travel and tourism infrastructure.”

See for yourself: the Yacutinga Lodge & Wildlife Nature Reserve is set in its own 560-hectare nature reserve in northeast Argentina. It has fantastic jungle right on its doorsteps, day and night excursions through the undergrowth and English-speaking guides to point out ancient trees, medicinal plants, orchids and rare birdlife.

There are also river excursions and treetop observation towers where you can watch parakeets fly at eye level. It uses alternative energy systems and employs a strict recycling policy. A 10-day trip with Journey Latin America (020 8747 8315, www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk ), with nights in Buenos Aires and at the Iguaçu Falls, starts at £1,402pp for land arrangements (some full-board, some B&B), plus about £880pp for flights.

BOLIVIA Ethical Traveler says:“With 22 national parks (one with 800 species of birds) and great biodiversity, Bolivia is a real treasure.”

See for yourself: Bolivia’s appeal lies in its mix of dramatic scenery, from high mountains to low deserts, fascinating indigenous culture and a rich prehistoric past. Rather than stay at a single destination, sample the Andes, Lake Titicaca, subtropical Santa Cruz and more.

Cox & Kings (020 7873 5000, www.coxandkings.co.uk ) has a 13-night tour from £2,995; its guides receive regular training on Bolivia’s ecosystems, the flora and fauna, and the importance of recycling and energy-saving.

BULGARIA Ethical Traveler says: “The first EU country with a biodiversity strategy... great potential.”

See for yourself: much of the coastline has been ruined by overdevelopment, so it is rural Bulgaria that is most eco-enticing. There you will find the Rila range, a spine of mountains that contains more than 200 lakes, a famed monastery and Bulgaria’s highest mountain. Not far away is the Pirin National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site,with waterfalls, caves, 60 alpine peaks and another 70 lakes.

Plus the odd brown bear. Walks Worldwide (01524 242000, www.walksworldwide.com ) has an eight-day guided exploration (for keen hill-walkers) from £775; Naturetrek (01962 733051, www.naturetrek.co.uk ) has a less strenuous 10-day wildlife tour, Bulgaria in Spring, from £1,250.

CHILE Ethical Traveler says:“It could become an ecotourism destination par excellence.”

See for yourself: Patagonia is the place to head for, especially the Torres del Paine National Park, 1,900 miles south of Santiago by road and a Unesco biosphere reserve. The dramatic wilderness incorporates lakes, striking mountains, glaciers and magnificent ice fields to the south. It has kayaking, climbing, hiking, pumas, condors and, now, a little touch of luxury on its doorstep.

The new Patagonia Camp is more glamping than roughing it, with sheepskin-lined yurts, designed by local artists, and imaginative food that’s a cut above bush tucker. They also serve blue pisco sours that match the turquoise of the lake the camp overlooks. It’s 100% eco-friendly, with solar power and top-quality waste management. Tim Best Travel (020 7591 0300, www.timbesttravel.com ) has a 10-day itinerary to Chile, with four nights, full-board, at Patagonia Camp, for £3,210.

COSTA RICA Ethical Traveler says: “Sets the Latin American standard for sustainable ecotourism, social welfare and civil rights.”

See for yourself: try the 16-room, family-run Tiskita Jungle Lodge, in the middle of a private 400-acre rainforest reserve on the south Pacific coast. It offers guided walks and horseback tours into the rainforest, and there’s a three-mile stretch of beach below the reserve, the nesting site of ridley, green and leatherback turtles. Sunvil Latin America (020 8758 4774, www.sunvil.co.uk ) has a 14-night tour of Costa Rica, with three nights, full-board, at the lodge, from £3,164. The operator contributes $10 per client to the Tiskita Foundation, a not-for-profit local educational organisation.

CROATIA Ethical Traveler says: “Since its entry into the EU, Croatia has made a real effort to support sustainable ecotourism ventures.”

See for yourself: one of the most spectacular “green” developments in the country is the Eco Centre Caput Insulae, at Beli, on the island of Cres. It’s dedicated to saving the rare whiteheaded griffon vulture, but Goran Susic, the man behind it, has a touch of the Guillermo del Toro, creating fantastical stone labyrinths deep in the surrounding forests.

Volunteers (who do everything from trail construction to sheep-shearing) stay for a minimum of seven days and pay between £80 and £120 a week, depending on season, plus £32 to cover food. For details, visit www.supovi.hr or contact the Croatian National Tourist Office (020 8563 7979, www.croatia.hr ). Fly with Ryanair (www.ryanair.com ) to Pula, or with Croatia Airlines (00 385 1 487 2727, www.croatiaairlines.com ) to Pula or Rijeka, then catch a ferry to Cres.

ESTONIA Ethical Traveler says: “One of the world’s best-ranked countries for protected areas per capita, with the lowest CO2emissions in Europe.” (Note: since ET’s report was written, Estonia is no longer considered a “developing country”.)

See for yourself: you can flaunt your green credentials by cycling; the countryside is good and flat, so it won’t take that much effort. Regent Holidays (0845 277 3317, www.regent-holidays.co.uk ) has a nine-day trip that starts in lively Tallinn, with its Prague-like medieval core, then switches to the island of Saaremaa for the pedalling part. It’s quiet, rural and mostly tourist- and traffic-free. Each night is spent in a locally run farmhouse, many of which have saunas for treating any aches and pains. Prices start at £650, B&B, including flights, bicycle hire, maps and mobile rental.

NAMIBIA Ethical Traveler says:“with abundant wildlife, great national parks and locally owned and managed conservancies, Namibia is a relatively undiscovered gem” - although reports that the government is sanctioning licences to hunt endangered desert elephants bring into question the Namibia’s ethical integrity.

See for yourself: this is a country with enough space for truly spectacular landscapes, indigenous people and wildlife to coexist without too much conflict. Sample all three on a 13-day trip with Explore Worldwide (0844 499 0901, www.explore.co.uk ) trip.

It takes in the Erongo mountains and Brandberg, with its unique ancient rock art, spends time with the Himba, the nomads of the Kaokoveld in the remote north, and concludes at the Etosha Pan, for elephant, wildebeest, eagle, oryx, lion, hyena and jackal. There’s plenty of off-roading and some basic camping, but at least you have a hotel and pool bar to look forward to at Windhoek. You will alsobe supporting the Afri-Leo Foundation, which nurtures Namibia’s lion population. The trip costs £1,895, full-board.

NICARAGUA Ethical Traveler says: “Fair-trade ventures with local farmers, impressive civil liberties (except for some issues around gay rights) and a mushrooming variety of sustainable ecotourism destinations convinced us to add Nicaragua to the list.”

See for yourself: how about a cup of coffee? How about one grown on your doorstep? The Nicaragua Lodge and Coffee Plantation - aka Finca Esperanza Verde Ecolodge - is situated in high, misty, tropical mountains in the heart of Nicaragua. It offers guided hikes along the nature trails, bird-watching, night walks, homestays with locals, cooking classes and a chance to help with the coffee crop.

Solar- and hydroelectric-powered, it sleeps 26 in bunkhouses. Prices start at £28pp per night, including meals. For more details, call 01273 600030 or visit www.responsibletravel.com/nicaraguaecolodge . If you want something more luxurious, the best option is the the splendid Morgan’s Rock Hacienda & Ecolodge (www.morgansrock.com ). Continental Airlines (0845 607 6760, www.continental.com ) has flights from London to Managua from £589, via Houston. Or try Expedia (0871 226 0808, www.expedia.co.uk ).

SOUTH AFRICA Ethical Traveler says: “South Africa receives high marks for supporting eco-friendly, community-based tourism ventures, as well as for species protection and vigilance against poaching.”

See for yourself:the eight thatched chalets of Djuma Bush Lodge are in the Sabi Sand reserve, which borders the Kruger. Apart from its excellent ecological credentials - it has the coveted Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa kitemark - it’s a fine place to spot the Big Five, as it’s rare to encounter other safari vehicles.

With Rainbow Tours (020 7226 1004, www.rainbowtours.co.uk ), a sevennight safari at Djuma Bush Lodge starts at £2,445pp, including meals and game-viewing. Sybarites should upgrade (£390pp extra) to the nearby Djuma Vuyatela Lodge, the luxury option: eight more chalets built and operated by the same owners. They can even arrange private silver-service bush dinners for you (with guards to stop you being on the menu).

Full Story http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/travel/holiday_type/green_travel/article4681669.ece

Linkback - 10 great green and ethical holidays
]]> 9/7/2008 10:36:30 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4797 4797
With offers to rent timeshare already up by 170 percent over the past year, a leading timeshare resale and rental advertising company, points to timeshare rentals as one of the fastest growing segments of the timeshare resale industry. CEO Jason Tremblay Jason explains, "Last October we created Rental Assist to enhance our service to clients who want to rent timeshare. People recognize that renting timeshare is a cost effective way to enjoy luxurious vacation property."

The privately held Dover, NH based timeshare advertising and marketing company posted impressive second quarter growth numbers. Timeshare offers to buy or rent through SellMyTimeshareNOW.com average more than one million dollars per day, with offers to rent timeshare totaling $29,922,343 through the end of the second quarter this year.

Their Rental Assist manager, Peter Emery, says, "Rental Assist works directly on behalf of the customer. As far as I know, there are no other programs on the Internet like this." He adds, "Rental Assist has tripled in staff and I expect that expansion to continue. This is a direct result of our new outreach programs designed to facilitate renting timeshare."

Emery goes on to explain that the advantages of renting a timeshare over a hotel are huge, with lower cost, for the most part and larger accommodations on average. Additionally, there are often amenities including kitchens, dining areas and in-unit washers and dryers that hotel rooms rarely offer.

While other segments of the vacation industry are feeling the pinch of a tight economy, timeshare resales continue to thrive. Recognizing that demand and interest in timeshare rentals was growing, SellMyTimeshareNOW.com created their Rental Assist program offering in-house client matching for timeshare renters and available timeshare rentals. Timeshare owners can use their timeshares as rental properties, offsetting their own fees or payments during times when they have chosen not to use their timeshare themselves.

Their website advertises timeshares for sale or rent, building a vast inventory of available timeshare properties. Consumers from anywhere in the world can easily buy timeshare or rent timeshare at a discounted price, with the number of offers to buy or rent timeshare through the website up 56 percent over last year. They deal directly with the current owner, shopping online for the vacation resort that fits their needs and their budget. In 2007, over $274 million in offers to buy or rent timeshare were made for timeshare advertised on the company's website.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080806172/Latest/$29-Million-in-Timeshare-Rental-Offers-Highlight-a-Fast-Growing-Segment-of-the-Vacation-Industry.html


Linkback - Offers to rent timeshare up by 170 percent
]]> 9/7/2008 10:33:39 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4796 4796
"Sandy has a proven track record of success in the industry," said James R. Danz, RRP, DRI's Chief Marketing Officer. "This includes promotions, lead generation, call center, mail programs, package sales, owner revisit, and referral and OPC operations for some of the biggest companies in the industry."

Most recently Sandy was a consultant with Princeton Resorts Group assisting in all marketing programs and was the National Director of Promotions with Preferred Equities Corporation.

"Sandy brings over 22 years of experience in the timeshare industry with a strong background in lead generation and all aspects of field marketing," said Simon Crawford-Welch, DRI's President & Chief Operating Officer. "She will be a strong asset to our company."

Full Story : http://www.prweb.com/releases/2008/09/prweb1294794.htm

Linkback - Dri hires relationship marketing professional
]]> 9/7/2008 10:30:11 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4795 4795
Insurance firms report that the fraud takes on many forms, including policyholders pretending that expensive items such as cameras and iPods have been stolen, and others who misrepresent the value of an item stolen in an actual case of theft.

Other travellers, realizing they can no longer afford the trip they booked months earlier, are feigning illness and cancelling trips, often finding doctors who will issue certificates that state they are not well enough to travel. Most travel cover features cancellation refunds when a policyholder falls ill before the start of a trip.

The Association of British Insurers reports that its member companies are definitely seeing an increase in fraudulent claims. “Travel insurance is always susceptible to fraud and when times are tough, people look at ways of raising what they believe is easy money,” commented association spokesman, Malcolm Tarling. “Because the losses are abroad and police overseas are often not interested in investigating, people can claim possessions have gone missing.”

He pointed out, however, that claims adjusters are primed to spot the “telltale signs” of false claims, but added: “I won’t say what those are though.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/fake-insurance-claims-rise-as-travellers-feel-economic-pinch-5633574.html


Linkback - Fake insurance claims rise-travellers feel pinch
]]> 9/7/2008 10:26:45 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4794 4794
In fact, a number of timeshare companies are reporting double-digit growth.

Take Orlando-based Westgate Resorts, which reported sales were up 22 percent in June. Although the July numbers are not available, the company set a seven-day sales record the week of July 4 when it recorded gross sales of $33 million. Two weeks later, the 2,000-member Westgate sales staff came within $5 million of that mark with $28 million in gross sales.

And with August historically one of Westgate's highest-grossing months, the company has reason to be optimistic about the rest of the year. Last year, Westgate posted $1.1 billion in revenue, said Westgate Chief Financial Officer Tom Dugan.

http://sanantonio.bizjournals.com/orlando/stories/2008/09/08/story10.html


Linkback - Firms continue to post big gains in timeshare sale
]]> 9/7/2008 10:20:25 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4793 4793
Has anybody stayed here? We have been next door and it was great but they don't have any availability for next June !!!!

So we need to know if the pool is just ladder entrance or if it does have a slope or roman steps. the poeple there direct do not seem to know how to answer me and RCI are also unclear although they have tried contacting direct.

Think it is a language issue.

can you help?

Mike

Linkback - Las casitas lanzarote
]]> 9/6/2008 2:17:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4792 4792
Linkback - Timesharegetout
]]> 9/5/2008 6:47:57 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4791 4791
Linkback - Exchange companies
]]> 9/4/2008 4:32:04 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4790 4790
I feel timeshare is no longer economical especially when you consider the cost of eating out, RCI, transport etc.

I would imagine the resale value would be under £500 pounds even if i could sell it.

If i default on payments is there any comeback on me as owner also i have 2 weeks in rci spacebank.

There must be a lot of us in the same boat, what is the future for timeshare resorts if this is the case? This may have a lot to do with the exchange rate/economic climate for us British, is there a country ie Russia to fill the gaps.

Any ideas anyone???

Linkback - Maintenance fees
]]> 9/4/2008 4:12:52 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4789 4789 I've had two weeks in the UK this year and OK the weather hasn't been great but we survived.
Just booked for another week in the UK for next summer and wondered if anyone out there had been put off by the last two wet summers.

Just curious

Linkback - General holiday question for uk people
]]> 9/4/2008 8:14:03 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4788 4788
Received via another forum:

A decision has been made by THE ClubSM from 1st September not to allow points purchased or ‘transferred’ from another European Collection member to be used for benefits and services provided by THE ClubSM. This means that points purchased this way remain valid for all European Collection resort reservations and for II exchanges, but cannot be used for the member benefits introduced by THE ClubSM earlier this year, such as points redemptions on flights, cruises, etc. or for booking holidays to non European affiliated resorts, which are provided for by THE ClubSM.

This policy decision introduced by THE ClubSM does not impact points owned by any member who has previously purchased points from another member, or has a member points purchase currently being processed, nor does it affect members’ enjoyment of the II exchange and Gold membership benefits. When points are used for a European Collection reservation, then ‘transferred’ points will be deducted used first, so leaving points recognised by THE ClubSM free to be used on member benefits.

All members requesting a new points purchase from another member from this time will be clearly told of this new policy; we will be entirely transparent.

This decision has been made by THE ClubSM operating company, and is a policy change that neither the Diamond Resorts European Collection Board of Directors contributed to nor can vote on.

Sarah Hulme | Vice President of Global Club Operations | Diamond Resorts International®

This is going to make points worth even less now!

Linkback - Diamond change the rules again
]]> 9/3/2008 5:01:29 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4787 4787
Linkback - No more maintenance fees
]]> 9/2/2008 11:58:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4786 4786 ruby

Linkback - Help with changing our week
]]> 9/2/2008 5:37:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4785 4785
Linkback - Hollywood mirage
]]> 9/2/2008 4:34:51 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4784 4784 I'm going there in November and was just wondering if it was going to be any different to when I stayed there 3 and a half years ago.
Can anyone confrim that the tapas bar upstairs has now changed and if so, what is it now?
Really looking forward to going back as we had a great time previously.

Cheers

Linkback - Marbella beach resort
]]> 9/2/2008 2:43:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4783 4783
Dave


Linkback - 35(00) points for sale.
]]> 9/1/2008 6:38:55 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4782 4782 [:)]

Linkback - Gsl
]]> 9/1/2008 3:30:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4781 4781 It is a 1 Bed Appt. overlooking the Pool Area
It is for the last two weeks in August (weeks 33&34)
Hollywood Mirage is a RCI Gold Crown Resort and is superb
Looking in the region of £4,000 with buyer to pay legal fees
This represents are considerable saving to those offered in resort
Willing to throw in a week in Club Riza, Malta if asking price is offered
Please contact for more details
Selling because kids have flown the nest

Linkback - FOR SALE - HOLLYWOOD MIRAGE - WEEKS 33 and 34
]]> 8/31/2008 9:05:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4780 4780
Linkback - Malta: golden sands
]]> 8/31/2008 3:17:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4779 4779
Linkback - Virgin airlines
]]> 8/30/2008 11:41:33 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4778 4778 £1500 o.n.o

2009 management fees will be paid by seller

Linkback - Pine lake resort. Peak 2 bed for sale.
]]> 8/29/2008 4:15:28 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4777 4777
Transatlantic budget carrier Zoom Airlines has suspended all of its flights after admitting it was applying to go into administration.

Passengers due to fly with Zoom were told to book with other carriers and to contact card issuers about refunds.

Earlier, two of the airline's jets were held at Glasgow and Cardiff airports.

UK-Canadian Zoom blamed its problems on the "horrendous" price of jet fuel - which had added $50m (£27.3m) to annual fuel bills - and the economic slowdown.

Zoom employs 450 staff in Canada and 260 staff in the UK.

It operated flights from London Gatwick, Glasgow, Manchester, Cardiff, Belfast, Cardiff as well as Paris and Rome.

And it flew to eight destinations in Canada, New York, San Diego, Fort Lauderdale and Bermuda.

"We deeply regret the fact that we have been forced to suspend all Zoom operations. It is a tragic day for our passengers and staff," said Zoom founders Hugh and John Boyle.

"We are desperately sorry for the inconvenience and disappointment that this will cause passengers and those who have booked flights.

"We have done everything we can to support the airline and left no stone unturned to secure a re-financing package that would have kept our aircraft flying."

They added that hopes of securing a new investment package to ensure future operations had failed, meaning administration procedures had to begin.

Zoom said BA and Virgin Atlantic were offering "generous" fares for Zoom passengers.

They had based their business model on oil prices of about $70 or $80. When they topped $140, Zoom simply could not cope

The announcement came after one of its planes was detained at Glasgow Airport for non-payment of air traffic control charges.

Meanwhile passengers on a flight from Cardiff were told to get off their Zoom plane, which was then impounded.

A number of other budget long-haul carriers have gone into administration in recent months including Hong Kong to London carrier Oasis and business class transatlantic firm Silverjet.

The rising cost of oil - which topped $147 a barrel in July - has led to aviation fuel bills soaring.

"They had based their business model on oil prices of about $70 or $80," said Simon Calder, travel editor of The Independent.

"Once they topped $140 they simply could not cope."

He added that "tens of thousands" of passengers were likely to suffer.

Airline analysts say that with consumers being more cost-conscious, many were cutting back on luxury spending such as travel.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7586654.stm


Linkback - Zoom airlines suspend all flights
]]> 8/28/2008 8:58:37 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4776 4776
The operator hopes to increase its seven outlets in Debenhams and Tesco stores to 14. The first opened last December.

Sales and operations director Stewart Baird said the company had seen a significant hike in sales from customers living in a 20 to 30 mile radius of the stores as a result of brochure pick-ups, rather than in-store bookings.

"Each one is moving 2,000 brochures a week. It's about getting more brochures into the market and getting our brand out there. They have worked really well for us. We will try to double it by next year," said Baird.

But he stressed the move was not a sign the company was trying to change its business mix. "Our direct business has not increased over the last 18 months," he said.

Around 75% of Virgin Holidays' sales are from 'controlled' channels, mainly agents, according to Baird, and the operator already has long-term distribution relationships with Stella Travel Services and The Co-operative Travel Group.

Baird added: "This is not about being picky about where you get your sales. We want to grow our business and we have got seats to fill. We are in double-digit growth for this year and have to maintain that. We want to focus our efforts on agents that support us."

The company has also stepped up its marketing this year, with four series of TV advertising planned, compared with two last year. The latest and third tranche of advertisements is now to feature Charlotte Church.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/08/27/28610/virgin-holidays-to-double-high-street-outlets.html


Linkback - Virgin holidays to double high street outlets
]]> 8/28/2008 8:09:11 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4775 4775
British Airways disputes this claim that customers are still turned away over any issues that might have occurred because of the opening of Terminal 5. A spokesperson for British Airways said “We do not recognize Virgin’s claims. It was well documented that there were problems at Terminal Five shortly after its launch, but we have seen no lasting effect. Indeed, the number of customers using it has risen by 25,000 since April so we’re obviously more than happy with this progress.” British Airways also said that passenger volume at terminal 5 has increased to 65,000 people a day.

Branson also commented during the announcement that “It’s ironic that just as regulators are breaking up one monopoly - BAA - British Airways and American Airlines are trying to create another. Our results prove that consumers want choice on transatlantic routes. Unless the regulators block the proposed BA/AA monopoly, consumers will lose out - and they’ll pay higher ticket prices for the privilege.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/virgin-atlantic-claims-british-airways-passengers-prefer-to-fly-with-them-5633512.html


Linkback - Ba passengers prefer to fly with virgin claimed
]]> 8/28/2008 8:08:03 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4774 4774
have sold my timeshare but want a deposit of 1200 euro

has anyone heard of this company ??

Linkback - Mjdestates
]]> 8/28/2008 2:21:57 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4773 4773 it sounds to good to us there web site is www.barkerandcohen.com
regards
Caz & john



Named parties on title deeds: Mr & Mrs,



You are invited to Tenerife to discuss the sale of your property. The minimum guaranteed offer that you have been made at this stage is £20,000 and the negotiations will not drop below this price. All of the named owners are required to attend the meeting.



Our Purchasing Department will present you with all of the necessary information about our company in general including any promotional offers that we feel you may be interested in during this meeting.



During your meeting we will require to see all paperwork relating to your property, including certificate of ownership or deeds, receipt of maintenance fees, passport identification and also bank details to complete the transaction.



Once your reservation with us has been processed, we will provide you with self-catering accommodation for up to 4 people, for any duration between 2-7 nights. You will also be provided with a transfer from the airport to your resort, and an appointment with our Purchasing Department. In order to process your reservation we require a small payment of 595 Euros which can be paid by credit card or bank transfer. Most importantly however, this refundable fee also allows us to block off your weeks/points from our manifest of the weeks/points we have been contracted to purchase.

The reservation fee will be refunded to you on completion of the sale of your timeshare.



We can source flights on your behalf from companies who offer discounts to our clients. Clients must fly into Tenerife South Airport.



A representative will contact you before your departure to confirm all of the details, however we will send written confirmation of accommodation prior to this time. Before your arrival we need to know how many people are travelling and their full names, flight numbers, arrival times and departure airport. There will be a company representative at the airport to meet you.

We are only interested in purchasing a limited amount of weeks, and our Business partner is looking for specified properties and locations, therefore it is important that you are able to make your reservation as soon as possible, with a view to visiting us within 12 months of reserving.

If you have any questions or require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us on the telephone numbers below.



I confirm that your property has been approved for purchase and the minimum guaranteed offer that has been made to you at this stage is outlined below:

This is the final offer that we are prepared to make at this stage

it sounds to good to us
regards
Caz & john


Linkback - Barker & Cohen
]]> 8/26/2008 11:06:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4772 4772
We were allocated 525 (2 bed) upon arrival. We were shown to the apartment by a porter who insisted that I was not allowed to carry anything, off to a good start! Our apartment was a recently refurbished and was very nice indeed. The balcony (shaded in the afternoon)was quite small, but we are not a family to spend a considerable on there, so no real problem. I prefer to have a smaller balcony rather than have people look in when they pass by another good thing was that we were able to pick up the WiFi (6€ per week) connection easily.

Heskie on reception has a excellent very professional with a wicked sense of humour and just allround lovely. Isabelle the head receptionist sorted out a concern over the unfinished work on our roof top terrace within a few hours, so again really pleased with her.

Greg the lifeguard was fantastic and brought the kids together he also ensured that sunbeds were not reserved. One lady (not me) was threatened by a man who had returned to find his towels removed, but thats another story.

The onsite restaurant was okay, the best on the menu was pork fillet with two sauces (hubbys choice) and battered (make sure you ask for battered) fish and chips (eldest sons favourite), everything else was okay, youngest son and I did not have a wow factor with anything ordered. The Japi bar was very good and here you could get a 3 course menu of the day for 12 € approx. I would not recommend the Chinese at the Ausie Bar, had a very bad experience with the food here, it was disgusting and the pork ribs hot on the outside but frozen at the bone. We ate a several restaurants and did not have a have a fantastic meal. For good food go to Fornells, here every restaurant was brilliant.

The Irish bar has great but repetitive entertainment, but at the end of the week we could finish the gags, talk about an entertainers worst nightmare!!!! Goody Goody is an arcade just down from WSBC and here you can eat or have a drink whilst the little ones play. It is also great for teenagers and ours would go down with others, but it is expensive.

Loved the resort and menorca so much that we have booked for next year.

Linkback - White sands beach club 18th july - 1st august 2008
]]> 8/26/2008 8:19:59 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4771 4771

BANK DEUTSCHE BANK

BENEFICARY SNR. JAN BALDWIN[/b][/b] (SENIOR ACCOUNT REGISTRAR)

ADDRESS AVD. R. PUIG LLIVINA, S,. C. CIAL GALA
POSTAL CODE 38660

Linkback - New sharks out there be aware jan baldwin?
]]> 8/26/2008 6:36:52 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4770 4770
we want to travel to the Moon Palace over xmas /new year 2009/10, and there's two adults and and 7 yr old and a 4yr old.

can anyone help?

http://allinclusive.rci.com/searchPage.asp?resortID=4227&searchType=id&show=Fees#details

is it really $3115 per adult per week?

that would mean about $6300 for two weeks as a supplement (on top of my Club La Costa exchange)

Linkback - Actual cost of all-inclusive at moon palace?
]]> 8/24/2008 9:34:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4769 4769
Karen Phelan, Broker/Owner of Preferred Timeshare Resales, based out of Lake Tahoe, has observed a new breed of timeshare buyers enter the market over recent months. Phelan said, "The buyers we're starting to see more of are those who have formerly owned Vacation Homes. These buyers rarely considered timeshare ownership until now. Even in signs of today's uncertain residential real estate market, many still dream of owning a vacation home in their favorite vacation destination. With timeshares, many would-be vacation home buyers and former vacation home owners are discovering their dream is still well within reach."

Why? They are discovering timeshares are an attractive alternative to owning a vacation home, based on economics and common sense:

Affordability: Former vacation home owners and would-be second home investors are instead buying timeshares at a fraction of what it costs to own a vacation home. There is often no mortgage, and money isn't tied up in one huge investment. Most people who own timeshares often own multiple weeks, particularly after they've purchased their first one and have seen the many benefits, luxuries, and affordability of timeshare ownership.

No Long Distance Worries: To defray costs, many vacation home owners need to make their homes available as a vacation rental. There are worries about vacancy factors, tenants calling all hours of the day (or night) with maintenance issues, and arranging to maintain the vacation home long-distance. Conversely, when timeshare owners check out of their timeshares, there is no need for these concerns.

Maintenance: Annual maintenance fees are diminutive in comparison to second home ownership maintenance costs. Timeshare Maintenance fees typically include property insurance, future furniture replacements and other updates, maintaining the premises, resort management and personnel, maid service, and other operational costs involved in the operation of the resort.

Location: Although almost all timeshare resorts are in top-rated vacation destinations, a large reason timeshare owners love their timeshares is they are not locked into a fixed location. With large exchange companies, such as Interval International (I.I.) and Resort Condominiums International (R.C.I.), Timeshare owners can "Put their vacation home on wheels". In any given year, owners can swap one or more of their weeks to thousands of other timeshare resorts and enjoy various vacation experiences.

Luxury/Amenities: Most timeshare condo residences offer more luxury and amenities than that of a vacation home.

Wayne Jackson, a long time industry veteran and Timeshare Resale Specialist with Preferred Timeshare Resales shared, "As an example, we have a client who sold his multi-million dollar lake front vacation home, and he nows owns six weeks of timeshare. His logic for timeshare ownership is he only was getting out to Lake Tahoe from Chicago for six weeks per year, and there were a lot of maintenance and property tax costs for such little usage on his large home. Although he loved his large vacation home, it didn't make financial sense at some point. He also shared that he truly enjoyed that someone else was the maid and maintenance man at his timeshares, so he now can finally rest and relax on vacation."

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080808181/Latest/Timeshares-Gaining-Popularity-Among-Former-Vacation-Home-Owners.html


Linkback - Former vacation home owners turn to timeshare
]]> 8/23/2008 7:55:13 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4768 4768
The cuts, which come on the heels of mass layoffs at Maui Land & Pineapple Co. and Molokai Ranch, affect about 40 percent of a nearly 50-member housekeeping staff, and were due to the switchover to a full timeshare operation, which typically doesn't provide daily housekeeping services, according to a source familiar with the situation who asked not to be identified.

The company has limited services to towels and trash only and once-a-week midweek cleaning, though wholesale and direct-pay customers will continue to receive daily housekeeping services, the source said.

Management at the 413-room timeshare resort didn't return calls for comment.

"It's really a slap in the face, especially during negotiations," said Cade Watanabe, a spokesman of Unite Here Local 5, the hotel workers' union, which is in the midst of negotiating a new contract that covered about 240 bargaining unit employees at KBC prior to the layoffs.

The employees have been working under an extended agreement since the contract expired on Jan. 1.

"We view these layoffs as a direct attack on workers," he said.

On the flip side, timeshare operations have been helping to keep the industry viable in these tough economic times, said Carol Reimann, executive director of the Maui Hotel & Lodging Association. "Their occupancies aren't affected as drastically as the hotels with the current economic situation," she said.

While Maui has been hardest hit by a dramatic slowdown in the tourism industry due to rising fuel prices, declining consumer confidence and spending power, the layoffs were not due to the current economic situation, the source said.

Maui has seen a 22 percent drop in total visitor arrivals in June, and an 8.8 percent decline in travelers for the first half of the year. Maui County's unemployment rate rose to 4.4 percent last month from 3.1 percent a year earlier.

Maui Land & Pineapple last month laid off 274 employees while Molokai Ranch, which is part of Maui County, terminated more than 120 workers in March.

Diamond Resorts, a Las Vegas-based vacation ownership company, re-entered the Hawaii market in 2007 with the $700 million acquisition of rival The Former Company Corp.

http://starbulletin.com/2008/08/21/business/story01.html


Linkback - Kaanapali beach club fires 20
]]> 8/23/2008 7:51:46 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4767 4767
Norwich, United Kingdom, August 21, 2008 --(PR.com)-- RCI, the world's largest holiday property management service have introduced a revolutionary new opportunity for oversees property investors.

RCI were the pioneers of the time-share holiday, now they have introduced an entirely new concept which allows you to own your own holiday property, rent it out and earn credits which can be used for holidays in other destinations. An investor can have all the benefits of owning their own property and utilizing it when not in use, rather than simply renting a holiday space.

In 1974, RCI instigated the concept of exchange holidays. Timeshare developers sell holiday ownership interests typically in either one-week intervals or as packages of points that can be used to reserve resort accommodations. Members share in the occupancy rights of a development and therefore pay an annual maintenance fee after the initial purchase. The conditions of a timeshare can vary vastly, obviously different prices result in different standards of property, the time of year they can be visited and for how long etc.

RCI’s new service allows for a property buyer to purchase their own holiday accommodation – which they can use whenever they want for as long as they want. When the property is not being used, RCI arrange tenants for it, the owner will receive 70% of the rental income and also through renting it out they will receive credits from RCI which can then be traded for holidays in other destinations. This is a great new twist on the classic timeshare service, allowing for an investor to earn money but also have their very own holiday home for whenever they desire it.

RCI have pioneered this project with the Whiterocks resort of luxury apartments in Bafra, northern Cyprus. Northern Cyprus is swiftly growing economically and as a popular holiday spot. The house prices are also set to rise a great deal in the next few years. Bafra is a tranquil yet prospering village nearby beautiful white beaches and clear seas, the area is set to include a Marina, shopping centre, beachside tropical gardens, parks and a golf course. The unspoiled coastline provides coves, seaside bars and restaurants, water sports and fishing.

An investor can now purchase one of the top-to-toe five-star apartments designed by Whiterocks and Blue C development. They can holiday in the beautiful location whenever they wish and during the rest of the year rent the apartment out hassle free, whilst earning bonus holidays. It is a simple solution for oversees investors who wish to earn money and holiday hassle free.

http://www.pr.com/press-release/101205


Linkback - Rci introduce new property investment scheme
]]> 8/23/2008 7:49:25 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4766 4766
Avoid Euro hefty capitals like Athens and Paris, opt instead for Cruises or enjoy the Great British summer at home

They’re the ones scuttling out of the little Provençal restaurant without leaving a tip, and the ones surreptitiously trailing a hand across the floor of the Trevi fountain hoping to pick up some loose coins to pay for their next beer. This thing that we dare not yet call a recession has transformed a nation of credit-card binge spenders into misers, and left us wondering whether there is anywhere in the world we can still afford to go on holiday.

We already knew that the euro was going through the roof; the pound has dropped almost 20 per cent against it in the past year. A friend of mine tells me that this summer, at the Travelex in St Mark’s Square, he was asked to pay £195 for 200 euros. “That’s an exchange rate of one for one,” he spluttered at the smiling Venetian clerk, before declining the offer and heading off in search of a cash machine. But now even that most beleaguered of currencies, the American dollar, is gaining on our feeble pound, forcing us reconsider that planned pre-Christmas shopping spree in New York.

Then there is the stratospheric rise in the cost of air travel. Thanks to fuel surcharges, a return flight to Sydney, which at the time of the 2000 Olympics was £450, now costs north of £900, of which more than a third comes as taxes and charges. As we report in today’s Travel section, those airlines we once thought of as low-cost carriers – Ryanair, BMIbaby and easyJet – have added so many extras to their prices that the advertised fares now come across as introductory offers, opening bids.

They charge for checking bags, checking in at the airport, carry-on bags, carry-on babies, paying by debit card, paying by credit card – just about everything but breathing. One friend recently bought tickets on a “low-cost airline” that were advertised at a total of £99 for him, his wife and infant, and ended up paying almost £400.

One option is to remain in our homes and hardly spend anything. Apparently, that is precisely what a lot of us will be doing this Bank Holiday weekend – watching rubbish old movies on our Freeview digital boxes; digging out boil-in-the-bag meals from the back of the freezer and completely ignoring the fact that the sell-by date was some time back in the summer of 2006; washing it down with a leftover bottle of Chianti that is more paint stripper than vin de table; and then going to bed early.

Or else we can get a grip, and think of ways to go abroad that won’t jeopardise the mortgage/children’s school fees/our pension fund, but still add a little joy to our fraught daily lives. Recently Dr Adrian Furnham, professor of psychology at University College London, warned readers of The Daily Telegraph that holidays are vitally important if we are to cure ourselves of two recent conditions – MPA (mobile phone addiction) and BDD (BlackBerry deprivation disorder). The best way to wean ourselves off our addiction to technology was, he said, to “go on holiday and turn the bloody things off”. Quite so.
So, what is required here is some creative thinking. For one thing, the most cost-effective way of travelling through the eurozone without suffering the euro-pain is to cruise through it. More and more Brits are taking to these floating holiday homes: over the next 12 months it is estimated that one and a half million of us will go on a cruise in one form or another. An example: Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is offering a one-week cruise on its newest ship, the Balmoral, for £395, reduced from £1,300. It starts from Dover, so there is no air travel involved, and visits La Rochelle, Bilbao, Corunna and Cherbourg.

As with all cruises, you can spend as much of your free time as you like eating – all the meals are included in the price – and between courses you can waddle around and see the sights of these lovely French and Spanish cities without once having to reach into your wallet. I know of one couple who returned from a trip-of-a-lifetime, 97-day, round-the-world cruise and regaled their friends with story after story – not of the great sights they had seen or the great adventures they had enjoyed, but of the free meals they had eaten.
If carbo-loading is not your idea of a fun time, you could resort to that other British holiday favourite – free sightseeing. While a visit to the Colosseum will cost you £18, a trip to the Pantheon is free. Similarly, in Greece a visit to the Acropolis sets you back £20, but Crete’s Chania Old Town costs nothing. In Paris, going up the Eiffel Tower will set you back £31 (admittedly that’s for a family of four, but it’s still just exploitation), whereas an equally edifying stroll around Mont Saint Michel won’t cost a penny.

There are also some exceptions to supersonic costs of euro-holidays. The one that my friends are now preaching about is Latvia. One cost-conscious teacher and his family of four returned recently and proclaimed the Latvian coast as “perfection… what the Med must have been like 40 years ago, and with prices to match”. The trick here is to avoid the capital, Riga, in the late evening: because it is cheap, Riga has become stag-party central for British grooms-to-be; if you are out late at night, and not fully alert, you are in danger of being on the receiving end of a projectile vomit or two.

Alternately, you could turn your back on Europe completely and plan a trip to more cost-effective, non-euro countries that don’t involve long flights with hefty fuel charges. Egypt finally seems to have solved its problem with tummy bugs and poured millions into developing the Red Sea coast, where the sun never stops shining, while Turkey is just as beautiful as Greece, but with better food and without the euro-priced menus. Both are only four or five hours’ flying time away. They are also destinations with a large choice of package holidays – so you can pay all your costs up front in sterling, especially if you book an all-inclusive deal.

Finally, it would be remiss of me not to point out the one place on earth where the creaking pound goes further than anywhere else – Zimbabwe. When Robert Mugabe took power in 1980, the pound bought you two Zimbabwean dollars. On my most recent visit, just four months ago, a pound bought 80 million dollars, and today that figure has ballooned to more than two billion. You can still get a tender rump steak at Maxie’s, an excellent restaurant in Bulawayo, for less than five pounds, and on one recent visit I had a full English breakfast at the airport for the equivalent of 12 pence.

So it’s a lovely holiday destination – but would you really want to travel to that old tyrant’s killing fields just to save a few bob?

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/2602931/Where-to-go-to-avoid-the-soaring-euro.html


Linkback - Where to go to avoid the soaring euro
]]> 8/23/2008 7:47:14 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4765 4765
Gogo is provided by Aircell, the same system which will be used by Delta on its domestic fleet roll-out and Virgin America who plan to launch services shortly.

“We are pleased to provide our customers with the unprecedented ability to stay connected to their family, friends and business associates on the ground via the Internet while travelling at 30,000 feet above the United States,” said Dan Garton, American’s executive vice president – Marketing. “With today’s launch, American Airlines makes history as the first and only US airline to offer customers full in-flight Internet connectivity, demonstrating once again our industry leadership and focus on our customers.”

American will charge US$12.95 to access the service.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/travel/business/article4591787.ece


Linkback - American airlines turns on in-flight wi-fi
]]> 8/23/2008 7:37:37 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4764 4764
Linkback - Timeshare scams resale
]]> 8/22/2008 8:09:36 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4763 4763 TATOC (The Timeshare Association) and the industry trade body, OTE (Organisation for Timeshare in Europe) are launching a competition for all European based timeshare and points owners this summer.
Submit an article* of around 500-800 words about what you love about your timeshare to win our top prize of £150, with second and third prizes of £75 and £50 respectively. The star prize winner will have their story featured in the first printed edition of the new consumer magazine, Owners Perspective - www.ownersperspective.com - in January of next year.
You might want to write about the exciting locations you have been to, why your resort is so special to you, your holiday adventures .… the choice is yours.
Your article should be emailed to Sue McNicol on smcnicol@btinternet.com no later than 30th September, together with your full name, country of residence and details of where you own.
*Articles submitted may also be used in full or in part in media releases, on the OTE and TATOC web sites and may also be featured in the exchange company magazines. The judges´ decision is final and no further correspondence will be entered into. The winners will contacted by email.
Best wishes and good luck to all.
Harry


Linkback - Competition
]]> 8/22/2008 1:18:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4762 4762
Willie

Linkback - Direct solutions ! Any info
]]> 8/21/2008 9:06:38 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4761 4761
I dont use the points system (except for the free taxi) and just book my home weeks.

I now want to purchase another week, via a timeshare reseller:

1/ Will there be any difficulties or restrictions by Anfi? How do I book & use the extra week?

2/ I dont need to buy this immediately (I cant find any 2 beds float in Anfi for sale at the moment). Is it likely that one will come up for sale in the next 6 months.

3/ How safe is it to buy through a reseller?

Linkback - Gran anfi purchase via timeshare reseller
]]> 8/21/2008 7:23:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4760 4760
2 bed family unit sleeps 6 - Check in Fri 21 until Fri 7 Aug 2009 - points cost 10,000.

£400 ono

pm me if interested, no extra cost for guest certificate and resort does not charge for electricity

Linkback - Sunset bay - 2 bed - 2 weeks summer 09
]]> 8/21/2008 5:02:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4759 4759
But can anyone explain please, or talk me through what the processes are for buying Timeshare. We are using a broker, have been given a "contract" which is no more than a purchase agreement.

There is no detailed information not even the name of the current owner on this contractor just the brokers details.

I know we will get a new certificate etc in our name, but surely there must be more than just seeing a timeshare advertised & agreeing to buy it. I rightly or wrongly assumed we would get a pack with details of the country club and the rules and regulations.

We have seen the property we are buying although not internally merely because my parents in law have a timeshare at the same place. They bought theirs years ago and can't remember how they went about it!

Linkback - Agreed to buy a timeshare-what;s the process
]]> 8/21/2008 11:46:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4758 4758
Once we sign the agreement do we then get more information from the actual resort or what happens next.

My husband is going to phone Aberfoyle tomorrow but wondered if any of you helpful souls have any ideas in the meantime.

Thanks

Linkback - Has anyone used aberfoyle holidays to purchase t/s
]]> 8/20/2008 10:59:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4757 4757
Linkback - Holiday club services
]]> 8/20/2008 8:45:44 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4756 4756

Linkback - Vacation solutions consultancy. Com
]]> 8/20/2008 8:36:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4755 4755
Linkback - Tauro anfi 2 bed wanted
]]> 8/20/2008 6:17:54 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4754 4754
Linkback - BPM Worldwide
]]> 8/20/2008 9:10:23 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4753 4753 Two years on after the husband is about to finish working in China we have the opportunity to use the timshare. So having got an e mail about another resort, I THOUGHT WE COULD USE, I phoned up and sent e mails. Oh no we were told you have to pay $250 USD per person per night, whats the point in having a time share I ask. Sorry was the reply. So ask about the other resort we saw, sorry thats the same you have to pay to go there. So says me, how come, you told us we could use it, they deny they ever took us, but after many fraught e mails they have to admit to it, as otherwise how could we know about the place and where it was, they then say they never said we could use it for timeshare. They then tell us on our documents it doesnt state the name of this other resort they tell us. No, of course goes me!!! do you have every RCI place you can stay on this document, NO!!! They offer us two FREE weeks for the upset. BUT we will have to pay to stay there in the future. What is the point in this I argue, we wanted to be able to go on holiday with just travel to worry about. By this time apparently the CEO of the Royal holiday clubs is leaving and now cant write to us!!! How convenient, so have a new guy who I dont think is anybody in particular, I have written to the President of RCI Mr. Geoff Balotti in the US, no reply, please people out there note his name and write to him too!!! The CEO was Ivor Clucas who lives in Perth Australia married with children and South African, you too can find him on the inernet easy enough.
So basically we are up the creek without a paddle. We dont want to incur any more fees so want to sell. That is another mine field, have already been asked to pay $550 USD to an agent, well no, I would rather donate to an orphanage in Cambodia than give anybody else any more of our hard earned money.
Oh, did I say I had two abusive phone calls from the Royal Bali Beach club staff!!! Shame I hadnt recorded the phone calls!!!
So we lose $10800 USD. Husband retires this month, and his looking forward to places to visit for a reasonable cost have just flown out of the window.
SO BEWARE ALL TIMESHARE PROSEPCTIVE OWNERS, Dont go to the Bali timeshare show, its a complete and utter con. Of course they wont buy the thing back, they have already spent our money and run with it.
Anne

Linkback - Timeshare sharks!
]]> 8/20/2008 8:50:40 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4752 4752
“To expand the Club Med business in the Asia Pacific region, we plan to set up a full-fledged office in Mumbai. Our objective is to have a sales and marketing office in India and increase awareness in the Indian market. We want to promote the Club Med brand, increase awareness, work in tandem with travel agents and educate them. Since people have a misconception that Club Med is a timeshare or club, we need to make people aware that it is a fully operational resort,” says Mumtaz Moiz, Business Development Manager - India and General Manager - Singapore. Hence, most Club Med resorts are owned, on lease or on management contract.

http://www.hospitalitybizindia.com/detailNews.aspx?aid=1923&sid=1


Linkback - Club med to set up sales and marketing in india
]]> 8/19/2008 6:16:17 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4751 4751
Consumer Direct North East has received more than 1,800 timeshare related complaints in the first six months of this year - a 45% rise from the same period last year.

Many were from people who regretted signing up to timeshares during high pressure sales presentations both in the UK and abroad.

But under the Timeshare Act 1992, if you sign a timeshare agreement in the UK lasting three or more years, you have a 14 day ‘cooling off’ period to cancel the contract and any related credit agreement.

If you sign elsewhere in Europe, you have a minimum of ten days to change your mind. Cancellation must be made in writing and preferably sent by recorded delivery.

For some people timeshares can offer great convenience and guaranteed access to attractive properties in desirable locations.

But for others, they can be an expensive financial burden.

David Sayer, head of governance for Consumer Direct North East and Trading Standards Manager for Redcar and Cleveland Council, said: “If you are considering buying a timeshare, take your time to do some research, and if you attend a sales presentation, don’t be pressured into agreeing to a deal on the spot.

“Take the details away, read all the terms and conditions very carefully and consider all costs including transport, insurance, annual maintenance charges and the cost of finance.

“Some companies try to draw you in to sales presentations by suggesting that you’ve won a free holiday. Many give the impression that they are not selling timeshares, but don’t be fooled. If the contract meets the requirements you should have the right to cancel.”

Advice on resolving timeshare and other holiday-related complaints is available by calling Consumer Direct North East on 08454 04 05 06, visiting www.consumerdirect.gov.uk, or through the Timeshare Consumers Association at www.timeshare.org.uk

http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/2008/08/18/don-t-be-in-a-rush-to-sign-84229-21552396/


Linkback - Don’t be in a rush to sign
]]> 8/19/2008 6:14:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4750 4750
That’s why we’ve found ingenious and exciting ways for mums and dads to make the most of this year’s long break.

You can easily get your hands on a brilliant free summer holiday guide that’s jam-packed full of ideas and activities that are sure to keep your little ones amused day and night.

The affordable tips are broken down into two essential packs – one for 0-five year olds the other for six-10 year olds.

Whatever the weather, you’ll be sure to find something to do with a toddler or young child in these free downloadable guides.

There are endless indoor and outdoor activities, games, arts and crafts and fun recipes.
Some of the best suggestions in the guide for 0-five year olds include: holding your own family Olympics, making a giant Panda mask, making paper, going on a nature walk adventure, making pirate costumes and learning to draw animals.

In the guide for six-10 year olds some of the best tips are: how to transform your child into a knight in shining armour, inventive ways to recycle bottles, sprouting seeds and making your own barbecue.

To download the guides for kids who are struggling to find things to do during their summer break visit www.dk.com/summerfun

If these tips don’t prove enough for your energetic family then you’ll be glad to know that Mirror.co.uk will be giving away five sets of books worth more than £100 that feature more ideas on how to make the summer as much fun as possible.

For your chance to win all of the 15 books that have inspired the summer fun guides for your family click here

And if you’re still in need of more ways to have family fun this holiday Mirror.co.uk is running a day-by-day guide to events happening across the country, from hands-on events at museums and parks through to festivals, carnivals and parades.

Visit Mirror.co.uk/pizza-hut to have a look at the choice in your area and keep checking back in the days ahead to see regular updates on more ways to have a sensational Summer Of Value.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/life-style/kids-and-family/2008/08/18/ideas-to-keep-your-kids-happy-during-the-summer-holidays-115875-20703098/


Linkback - School holidays - keep the kids happy
]]> 8/19/2008 6:11:25 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4749 4749
For the official founders event, N5R designed The Grand Residences at Cabo Cortés new logo concept and sent out invitations to all Royal Resorts members. “Roman and his team at N5R have masses of relevant experience and plenty of fresh ideas combined with a confident and smooth delivery. We are pleased with the professional information that N5R have brought to the table,” said Roger Sherman, Sales and Marketing Manager for the Grand Residences by Royal Resorts.

N5R is currently marketing and selling over $1 billion of the finest residential real estate developments internationally for some of the best known developers in the world. Over the past decade N5R has been involved in the sales and marketing of over 100 successful project sellouts in 30 cities in 10 countries with a combined sales volume of over $4 billion and 10,000 closings.

For over a decade, in both strong and weak market conditions, N5R has applied a dynamic, aggressive and personalized approach to residential real estate projects using the Internet and technology as its competitive edge. N5R clients include leading developers such as Intrawest, Tridel, Centex, Hyatt, Hilton, Wyndham, Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, Raffles, Fairmont, Ginn and Montecito Property Company.

The Grand Residences at Cabo Cortés will be the center piece of an almost untouched Mexican paradise. The resort village will provide homes, shopping, nature and aquatic interests for seasonal travelers, local residences and permanent transplants alike. The highly eco-friendly area will have an Equestrian center and world-class golf. This development will be a community of its own, a unique and modern development, where local flora, fauna and wildlife habitats will remain preserved.

N5R has long been a pioneer in the real estate sales and marketing industry employing groundbreaking technology, methodology and innovative research to what they do. N5R is best known for helping a start up condo developer in Florida go from $4 million annually to over $1 billion annually within 24 months. Montecito has now sold over $2.5 billion in US condos. With over a dozen 1 day sell-outs and a world record of selling 367 condos in 90 minutes in Phoenix, Arizona.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080808178/Latest/Largest-Timeshare-Company-In-Mexico-Launches-A-New-Brand-With-N5R.html


Linkback - Largest timeshare company in mexico - new brand
]]> 8/19/2008 6:08:11 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4748 4748
United's first and business class p.s. service between New York and California now features custom oversized Heavenly blankets and pillows inspired by the Westin iconic Heavenly Bed. Travelers will also be treated to refreshing White Tea scented towelettes and mints, and custom video and music on United's personal media players. Through a partnership with award-winning video production company Blue Marvel, Westin Hotels has created signature video content featuring stunning, soothing nature scenes from across the world; meanwhile, music selections from the brand's customized playlists include songs featured in Westin lobbies worldwide.

To complete the sensory in-flight experience, United will serve a specialty cocktail inspired by the groundbreaking Westin SuperFoods program. A new cocktail will be unveiled each season, and all will be served on a brain-teaser coaster, giving United customers a chance to practice the Westin brand's expert-developed, whole-body approach to wellness. United passengers will also be able to browse the Westin brand's popular Heavenly(R) product line by taking advantage of in-seatback retail catalogs; those looking to take the Heavenly(R) Bed home can redeem a special free-robe offer available to United passengers only.

On the ground, Westin Renewal Lounges within United's Red Carpet Clubs give travelers a soothing hideaway for relaxing and renewing. As a result of the Westin partnership with Philips Lighting Company, for example, the San Francisco lounge is equipped with a revolutionary blue-light ActiViva lamp -- not yet available for purchase in the United States -- which provides phototherapy and directly affects the way people feel by making them more alert, awake and energized. Created by the Westin design team and outfitted with plush furniture, fabrics and the brand's nature-inspired color palette, each Renewal Lounge features a signature LED candle wall and artwork typical of the Westin soothing aesthetic. While much of the furniture found in the Westin Renewal Lounges mirrors the offerings at Westin properties, the company's designers also created two pieces of custom furniture specifically for the United lounges: an upholstered ottoman with a built-in table (for displaying custom botanicals or books) and a day bed for resting. The Westin signature White Tea scent is diffused throughout the Renewal Lounges, while LCD televisions play custom Blue Marvel videos that feature inspiring footage of the natural world.

Westin has also created an exclusive, non-alcoholic SuperFoods elixir to be served in the lounges, and will introduce a new elixir each season. As part of the Westin partnership with celebrated floral designer Jane Packer, sustainable botanical bento boxes display natural materials such as bun moss, snake grass, stones and orchids. In addition, SuperFoods snacks and books by Jane Packer and SuperFoodsRx founder Dr. Steven Pratt will be available in the Westin Renewal Lounges.

"We are delighted to bring the Westin Heavenly experience to travelers in-flight and on the ground in United Red Carpet Clubs," said Sue Brush, Senior Vice President of Westin Hotels & Resorts. "This unique partnership is one more way Westin is bringing meaningful, renewing experiences to the traveling public."
"When traveling across the country, our first and business class customers expect to feel relaxed and rewarded when they are at the airport and on the airplane," says Graham Atkinson, United Airlines' executive vice president and Chief Customer Officer. "Refreshing drinks, a calming environment and a Heavenly pillow and blanket will ensure United's customers are reinvigorated for wherever their travels may bring them."

The Westin-United partnership will also reach guests not taking flight -- Westin guests may receive 1,000 bonus Mileage Plus miles when they book at select Westin properties (a full list is available at http://www.westin.com/united).

This partnership joins a host of initiatives at both companies to improve the guest experience. Initiatives aimed at personal renewal recently introduced by Westin Hotels & Resorts include a SuperFoods menu, an in-room spa program that includes a custom-designed portable spa table inspired by the Heavenly Bed, and RunWESTIN: complimentary guided jogs led by hotel staff that combine sightseeing and fitness.

http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/westin-hotels--resorts-united/story.aspx?guid=%7B14D7342F-CC45-4126-B8E3-48F2F766E965%7D&dist=hppr


Linkback - Westin/united airlines launch heavenly experience
]]> 8/19/2008 6:06:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4747 4747
Linkback - Seastar holiday properties
]]> 8/19/2008 5:59:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4746 4746
I am looking to buy a Pestana timeshare, I don't trust the reseller, I want to buy privately from a Pestana owner. This also allows you to enter the Pestana loyalty scheme.

Can anyone help.

Regards

Gekko


Linkback - Wanted pestana timeshare 2 bed
]]> 8/18/2008 10:27:38 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4745 4745
I am looking to buy a Pestana timeshare, I don't trust the reseller, I want to buy privately from a Pestana owner. This also allows you to enter the Pestana loyalty scheme.


Can anyone help.

Regards

Gekko


Linkback - I want to buy a pestana time share
]]> 8/18/2008 10:25:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4744 4744 [:)]

Linkback - Points for sale
]]> 8/18/2008 7:20:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4743 4743
I am looking to buy a Pestana timeshare, I don't trust the reseller, I want to buy privately from a Pestana owner. This also allows you to enter the Pestana loyalty scheme.

Has anyone got any suggestion where I could post an ad or get to contact owners. I already own a timeshare, however I am very impressed with Pestana resorts, the only problem is getting availability.

Can anyone help.

Regards

Gekko


Linkback - I want to buy a timeshare pestana group timeshare
]]> 8/18/2008 6:08:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4742 4742 i have 1280 clc vacation points for sale, OPEN TO OFFERS the buyer will have to pay the transfer fee to clc, all 2008 management fees have been paid.

Linkback - Clc vacation points for sale
]]> 8/18/2008 12:37:02 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4741 4741
Guess who it is:



5 points for a correct answer.

Please try to get this before the weekend as I'm off to France for my Birthday...



Linkback - Guess who it is - 17 august
]]> 8/17/2008 9:18:31 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4740 4740
Of course the next stage is to phone a few days later to say they can sell for a few thousand pounds but you have to pay a security deposit of £995 in case you pulled out of sale.

We weren't conned but many people are. So another one for timeshare owners to watch out for.

Sue [8D]

Linkback - Blue sky holidays - don't trust their offers
]]> 8/16/2008 6:57:51 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4739 4739
My parents-in-law bought a two week timeshare in Plas Talgarth, North Wales in the mid eighties. They are now elderly, my mother in law suffers from MS, it is not practical for them to use the facility anymore and they are desperate to unload because of maintenance charges of around £800pa (compared to around £75pa when they first bought). They are also worried that they've created an on-going financial burden for their children, which will ive on after their death.

They have fallen victim to re-sale scammers in the past, who relieved them of several hundred pounds before I became involved. The site owners' own resale service has also unsurprisingly drawn a blank.

I am thinking of trying to sell on E-bay for a nominal amount (£1!), offering to pay all charges as well, but don't hold out much hope.

Does anyone have any useful advice, or any experience of the consequences of defaulting and telling the site operators they can take the property back. I assume this would lead to threats of court action, but what is likely to happen in practice?

Any help gratefully received (unless you are another re-sale scammer, in which case don't waste your time!).

Linkback - Any advice on disposal appreciated
]]> 8/15/2008 10:51:48 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4738 4738
Im new on here so please be gentle.

My father has been contacted twice in the last four months with regards to a timeshare property that he purchased in the 80's. The first time It was from a company in Malta that wanted him to send £500 to there laywers blah blah blah. I managed to get rid of this one spotted her name and her company on another web site. Now he's had a Paul Best Tel no. 08715593848/1 ring him up. My Dad told him to speak to me so I'm just waiting for a phone call.
Does anyone know this bloke or his tel no.
Also my dad now wants to get rid of this time share but he has no details as he hasn't been back to Malta for 20 years All he know's is what the timeshare is called , I'm a bit worried that he will get stung for 20 years maintenance although nobodys asked for anything since the 80's but I dont want to open up a bag of worms.
Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated . Thanks[:)]

Linkback - Timeshare rip off
]]> 8/14/2008 8:35:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4737 4737
Linkback - 4000 points (8000 - 2009)
]]> 8/14/2008 7:54:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4736 4736 ANDY PHONES PLANET:We are Legitimate registered Company
and Registered No.03943803

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APPLE LAPTOP
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Your enquiry will be greatly appreciated.
andyphonesplanet@ommail.com
Phone Number : +447024039856



Linkback - For Sale Brand New Apple iphone 3Gb For $250
]]> 8/13/2008 2:48:51 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4735 4735
See my other topic for more info.

[url]http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=9982[/url]

I have just come across a letter dated April in which they quote a law of 6th January 1986 which prevents me from just me from just handing back my ownership. The actual wording is a bit vague as although it's in English it's disjointed. I think they are also saying their own rules don't permit it.

Anyway, wondered if anyone had any idea which law they are talking about. Is it a French or EU law and is it binding on UK citizens?

Thanks

Linkback - Anyone know what this law is?
]]> 8/13/2008 12:02:24 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4734 4734
Has anyone had any dealings with this company, they are advertising on this site. I am looking to rid myself of my ownership can anyone reccommend a reputable company.
bryrby

Linkback - Sellyourtimeshare
]]> 8/13/2008 11:29:30 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4733 4733 Accomodation is said to be at The Royal Tenerife Golf & Country Club is this connected to the Co?

Linkback - Tv travel
]]> 8/13/2008 10:21:21 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4732 4732
A draft EU directive, unanimously approved by the EU internal market committee on Monday, updates rules that are 14 years old so as to address consumer concerns and revitalise a business that is performing below potential.

Time share deals, which allow buyers to occupy holiday accommodation for specific periods in alternation with others, have won millions of takers worldwide since the 1970s. They are often sold as a cost-effective alternative to renting, hotels or a second residence. According to data from the Organization for Timeshare in Europe (OTE), in 2001 there were 1.452 million holiday centers in 25 European countries, 1.4 million families using this kind of accommodation and 200,000 Europeans employed in this sector, with sales totaling €2.3 billion per year.

Since 1994, an EU directive has helped to harmonize time-share rules across the EU, but litigation between operators and holidaymakers is still frequent, notably about conditions and quality of service. Furthermore, new holiday products and services, similar to time share but not covered by the directive, have emerged. These include new types of holiday clubs giving holidaymakers reductions in the cost of their stays if they take out a subscription. Some of these new contracts clearly circumvent consumer protection rules.

More deals covered by consumer protection rules

The revised draft directive, which supplements the general rules introduced by the recent directive on unfair commercial practices, will cover both time-share packages and new products that so far have escaped any legislation. Consumers will be better protected by rules that clearly state their rights, and will find it easier to go to court. Honest operators will no longer have to face unfair competition from fraudsters.

The text strengthens a series of existing harmonized provisions (right of withdrawal, choice of contract language, prohibition on deposits during the reflection period, pre-contractual information). Some consumer rights will be widened, e.g. MEPs would like to extend the withdrawal period to 21 days (compared with 10 days now and 14 proposed in the Commission draft).

MEPs did not back a proposal by rapporteur Toine Manders (ALDE, NL), who would have preferred a regulation (directly applicable throughout the EU), rather than a directive (which must be transposed into Member States' national laws), so as to achieve more thorough harmonization.

By contrast, they advocated a higher standard of consumer protection for long-term holiday deals (e.g. clubs), to be paid for in stages, than for traditional time-share contracts. But, not wishing to push this distinction too far, they rejected amendments that would have introduced more restrictive provisions (obligation to register agencies, national registers of service providers, mandatory civil liability insurance), leaving it to Member States to decide whether to supplement their laws in this area.

Clearer rules for holiday firms

The proposal aims to enhance consumer confidence and legal clarity, which are essential to the growth of this promising sector, via simplified EU-wide rules. Most time-share holidaymakers are from Germany or the UK, where most of the agencies are located, whereas most of the holiday centers are located in Spain, Italy, France and Portugal.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080801171/Latest/Time-share-Holidays-Clearer-Rules-Soon-Throughout-the-EU.html


Linkback - Timeshare: clearer rules soon
]]> 8/12/2008 6:42:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4731 4731
Most flights out of the airport have been cancelled, delayed or diverted as a result of the strike over pay and working conditions.

Passengers have been searching for bags amidst a heap of up to 20,000 pieces of luggage in the arrivals terminal.

Unions and management have so far failed to reach an agreement.

The Aviapartner and Flightcare staff began a surprise initial 24-hour walkout on Sunday evening which stretched past its deadline.

Negotiations with the airport management on Tuesday afternoon found no deal.

"Unions have rejected management's proposal so the strike will continue," Brussels airport spokesman Jan Van der Cruysse told the Reuters news agency.

He said a very limited number of flights, mainly long-distance, were taking off and those with severe delays.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/7556770.stm


Linkback - Chaos in brussels airport strike
]]> 8/12/2008 6:38:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4730 4730
The 48-year-old woman has called the airport home for the last 10 years, and has kept a blanket, her white cat Mumu, a few book and her three suitcases close at hand. In the airport she’s referred to as “the woman with the cat,” but Bettina has become a fixture as enduring as the terminal itself.

Her story has similarities to that of the character in the movie called ‘The Terminal’ in which the Tom Hanks’ character lived in the terminal building at Paris’s Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years after losing all his travel documents.

Bettina will not reveal her full name, but says that she came to Mallorca from a small town in southern Germany, looking for a job and a new start in life after the end of a relationship and loss of her job back home.

In the beginning, she was able to find odd jobs, but her dream of relocating to the island turned sour. “Suddenly there was no work because they only give jobs to Spaniards,” she told a reporter for the Diario de Mallorca newspaper. “I wanted to work in Mallorca but I got stranded here.”

Having no job, money or place to live, she decided to try staying at the airport, where she now manages to get by with the help of friends and strangers. “One friend brings me something to eat twice a week. Sometimes people give me a bit of money as well, but I don’t ask anyone for anything.”

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/german-woman-lives-in-palma-airport-5633398.html


Linkback - German woman lives in palma airport
]]> 8/12/2008 6:35:29 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4729 4729
An industry consumer watchdog group has said that it was “stunned” by the low-cost carrier’s move to not honour booking made through third-party, price-comparison websites.

The carrier has announced that it will permit the online purchase of tickets only through its own www.ryanair.com website.

Ryanair has already instituted legal action against two of the price comparison websites, Bravofly Ltd and V-tours, in order to prevent them from harvesting information on flights from the airline’s website.

The deputy chief executive of the carrier, Howard Millar, commented: “Ryanair is pursuing legal actions in a number of European countries to bring an end to this unlawful and anti-consumer activity.”

He added that customers were getting inaccurate information in some cases, and having to pay handling charges and higher fares in others.

“Ryanair will introduce new procedures to cancel all passenger bookings made through screenscraping websites. We believe this is a quicker and more effective way of discouraging this unlawful activity”.

Which? Holiday spokeswoman Rochelle Turner said: “We are stunned that Ryanair is treating its customers in this way.

She continued: “At a time when many people are struggling to afford holidays overseas airlines should be finding ways to make it easier for families to book and travel, not making it even harder.”

The company intends to refund the third-party websites for the cancellations, but is leaving it up to each price-comparison site to deal directly with customers who purchased the tickets.

A spokesperson for the Association of British Travel Agents commented that Ryanair’s move would actually penalize its own customers and hurt the carrier’s reputation.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/ryanair-cancelling-bookings-made-on-other-websites-5633397.html


Linkback - Ryanair cancelling bookings made on other websites
]]> 8/12/2008 6:33:23 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4728 4728
Linkback - Legal steps selling portuguese timeshare
]]> 8/12/2008 6:01:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4727 4727
I now find myself in the same boat and would be grateful for any advice.

I've owned 2 weeks (Period 21) at ClubHotel Multivacances, Marazul del Sur, Adeje, Tenerife see [url]http://www.tenerifeholidayrentals.net/maevaclubhotel.htm[/url] that was purchased in 1985. ClubHotel Multivacances are a French company although the management company in Tenerife is Spanish as required by Spanish law.

For some years now my wife and I have, for various reasons, been unable to use our weeks although we have always paid the maintenance. We are now both pensioners and as we are getting older it is unlikely we will be able to use our weeks in the future.

I wish to dispose of the timeshare as quickly as possible so that we are not paying maintenance for something we are not using and with all the other rises in living costs this is one bill I could do without.

I have tried to just hand back the deeds but no go, I then completed a mandate to sell the weeks for £2000 with ClubHotelbut (their suggested price) don't hold out much hope. I don't care what I get for the weeks as long as I get them off my back.

I made contact with a French lawyer and her initial comments were
that at present she saw no way to release me from ownership or liability but selling my weeks.

She would be prepared to look at all my documents and give me further assistance but charges at the hourly rate of 190.00 euros per hour (no vat charged)but would be happy to drop it down to 170 euros per hour to make it more attractive. She also said she would need an input of 1 to 2 hours to examine the paperwork, make relevant searches to conform which country would have jurisdiction, liaise with relevant contacts over (presumably Tenerife).

She also said that if I do not meet the charges, it is likely they would start, at some point after warning letters, legal action to recover the monies. The location of litigation would depend on the terms of the contract. If it was outside of the UK, like France or Spain, it should not affect my credit in the UK but if it is a UK account that is debited, this could have more implications.

The initial charge is bad enough but it could of course lead to a very expensive legal bill once started and might not lead to any positive conclusion.

I usually pay my maintenance by getting a foreign bank draft from Nat West and they have confirmed that no monies could be taken directly out of my bank by ClubHotel.

I am now thinking of just writing to ClubHotel and telling them I am cancelling my contract and also not paying this years maintenance fee (which has increased significantly this year because there is a refurbishment plan in progress).

My aim is to get them to respond with the terms etc. under which they will press for payment, which I can then challenge, and hopefully if I make a nuisance of myself they might just come to some sort of agreement that would release me.

Can anyone offer any advice on what action they could take that might affect my standing in the UK. Could they for example pursue me through the UK courts?

Thanks

Linkback - Cancelling contract
]]> 8/12/2008 3:58:44 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4726 4726
[url]http://www.tenerifeholidayrentals.net/maevaclubhotel.htm[/url]

This link gives a general impression of the site.

The apartment is 4 berth, main bedroom and two put you up sofas in the lounge, with bathroom, kitchen, large lounge and large balcony. I have some pictures taken several years ago that I can email if anyone is interested.

For several years now my wife and I have, for various reasons, not used our weeks and as we are now both pensioners travel is not so easy so we wish to dispose of our weeks so that we do not have the maintenance liability.

Maintenance for this year has not yet been paid. The resort has just announced a refurbishment plan.

I am open to any offer.

Linkback - For disposable-2 weeks marazul del sur, tenerife
]]> 8/12/2008 2:42:11 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4725 4725
My mother-in-law has recently handed over £200 to this company for a holiday that she is not entitled to because she is over 70!!!

They are refusing to refund her money.

Is this part of the spursgodsie empire??

Linkback - Extra weeks
]]> 8/11/2008 10:14:28 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4724 4724 REMOVED. My tour was a fantastic experience ¡V I hope you enjoy yours too!

Linkback - Travelling to china
]]> 8/11/2008 7:47:35 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4723 4723 Thanks [:)]
I've had a bad experience with one timeshare outfit and don't want to jump out of the frying pan into the fire [:(]

Linkback - Club flamingo tenerife
]]> 8/10/2008 4:13:55 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4722 4722
Effectively immediately, Celebrity will manage the two associations of the 134-unit resort in Princeville and will operate a nightly room rental business. It will also take over Quintus’ timeshare sales and marketing business at Hanalei Bay Resort.

The acquisition comes nine months after 40 resort and restaurant workers were laid off when cash shortages left Quintus unable to pay for front desk and bell services.

Gary Grottke, president of Quintus, said it is anticipated that all management company employees will retain their current positions.

Grottke described the decision to sell as “difficult,” and cited two driving factors. “First, Celebrity Resorts has a greater capacity on Kaua‘i to supervise and to assist in advancing the resort. Second, Quintus needs to raise money for upcoming debt service payments and for initiatives on the Mainland.”

Quintus is also in the process of selling the onsite Bali Hai restaurant and Happy Talk Lounge, which it owned outright, to local restaurateur Jim Moffat, who has plans to invest $1.5 million in renovating both venues.

Once finalized, all food and beverage employees who were previously notified of the pending sale will be terminated.

Grottke expressed confidence in Celebrity Resorts’ commitment to the timeshare industry. The company has more than 16 resorts, including Celebrity Resorts Waikiki on O‘ahu.

“Celebrity Resorts also has the management and operating systems in place that should ensure a successful transition and future for Hanalei Bay Resort,” Grottke said.

Celebrity Resorts has developed and managed projects in the U.S. and Caribbean. It currently has 17 resorts in six states, conducts business in more than 30 states and provides vacation services for more than 80,000 families on an annual basis.

“We are thrilled to add Kaua‘i to our collection of destinations, and we look forward to welcoming the owners and employees of Hanalei Bay Resort into our family and introducing them to the services and benefits that we offer,” Jared Meyers, Celebrity’s president and chief executive, said.

http://www.kauaiworld.com/articles/2008/08/09/news/news02.txt


Linkback - Hanalei resort-management business sold
]]> 8/10/2008 9:48:18 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4721 4721
Second-home owners with rural retreats in mainland Europe are to become the latest victims of the economic slowdown with airlines shutting down many of their budget European routes.

The financial crisis facing the airline industry means that thousands of cheap flights to Spain, Italy and the south of France are to be axed by British Airways, easyJet and other operators.

An analysis by the Official Airline Guide (OAG), used by the travel industry, shows that budget airlines will scrap almost 60 routes this winter. There will be 3,000 fewer flights than in the same period last year.

During the cheap flight boom that began in the late 1990s, hundreds of thousands of people bought properties in Europe, spurred by the prospect of a relaxed lifestyle and cheap and easy links to home. An estimated 425,000 Britons now have a second home overseas.

Some of the most favoured locations - southern France, Italy and Andalucia - will be among the most severely hit by the cuts. Given the worsening financial situation for airlines, prompted by rising fuel prices, many fear that flights will not be reinstated next summer, meaning longer journey times and a potential slump in the value of second homes.

According to the OAG, British Airways is at the forefront of the new cutbacks after announcing a 90% fall in profits earlier this month. It is abandoning two routes, Gatwick to Nice and London City Airport to Milan, from November to April, and cutting flights from Gatwick to Bordeaux by 30%. The service from Gatwick to Alicante has been halved compared with the same period last year, while flights to Toulouse and Bologna have also been reduced significantly.

Flybe is scrapping four routes and reducing eight others including services to Brest, Faro, Alicante and Malaga. EasyJet is reducing flights to France, Spain and Italy by about 20% over the same period, while Ryanair is reducing flights from Stansted by 14%.

Those who will be hit by the loss of flights include Lynne Mott and her husband William, a lecturer at Wolverhampton University, who own a holiday home in Touffailles, southeast of Bordeaux. Bmibaby, British Airways and easyJet are all slashing flights to Bordeaux this winter.

“I feel real frustration at the airlines,” said Lynne Mott.

Airlines blame the soaring cost of fuel and the slowdown in consumer spending. Many smaller carriers face bankruptcy if the harsh economic climate continues.

Losing regular flights to Britain can play havoc with the value of second homes. According to research by Savills, the estate agent, a low-cost airline near a second home could raise prices by as much as 37%.

John Taylor, an agent who helps clients to buy properties in Gascony, southwest France, said second-home owners near smaller airports were especially vulnerable. “If you have a home near the big centres like Toulouse you should be absolutely fine. You can still commute to London from there for less than it costs to do so from Somerset,” said Taylor.

Concerns are growing about the long-term sustainability of several budget airlines. Ryanair last week announced that it may face losses of €60m (£47m) in 2009, compared with a profit of €439m last year.

From tomorrow, Ryanair will accept only bookings made on its website. The airline will refund price comparison websites for cancelled flights but it will be up to individual sites to inform and refund customers who have booked through them.

Homeowners living in areas where flights have already been cut warned that the change had brought severe difficulties.

Jo Chipchase, a mother of two and a public relations executive from Brighton, owns a villa in Lanjaron, a spa town 25 miles from Granada in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Her usual route from Gatwick to Granada with Monarch Airlines is among those that has already been cut.

“I just won’t be able to come and go so often,” said Chipchase, 36. “Granada airport was so good because it was close to my home here. Now I will have to go to Malaga’s airport, which can take us up to three hours and cost €80 to get to.”

Chipchase was so incensed by the decision to axe the route last November that she started a petition to reopen it. It has been signed by almost 1,000 British homeowners.

Airlines said it was normal practice to cut flights on underused routes. Flybe said: “Any airline would tell you that marginal routes are more difficult to manage and maintain.”

GROUNDED

Routes that face cutbacks between November this year and April next year:

Bmibaby Birmingham to Lisbon, Portugal Birmingham to Madrid, Spain Birmingham to Rome, Italy

British Airways City, London, to Milan, Italy Gatwick to Alicante, Spain Gatwick to Bologna, Italy Gatwick to Bordeaux Gatwick to Nice, France Gatwick to Toulouse, France

easyJet Bournemouth to Lyons, France Bristol to Pisa, Italy East Midlands to Rome, Italy Gatwick to Alicante, Spain Gatwick to Nice, France Liverpool to Malaga, Spain Luton to Barcelona, Spain Luton to Lisbon, Portugal Luton to Toulouse, France

Flybe Birmingham to Brest, France Exeter to Brest, France Exeter to Faro, Portugal Manchester to Brest, France Southampton to Alicante, Spain Southampton to Bergerac, France Southampton to Rennes, France

Thomsonfly Bournemouth to Alicante, Spain Cardiff to Barcelona, Spain Coventry to Barcelona, Spain Coventry to Valencia, Spain Gatwick to Lyons, France Manchester to Lisbon, Portugal

Source: the Official Airline Guide and Thomsonfly

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article4493293.ece


Linkback - Airline squeeze hits holiday homes
]]> 8/10/2008 9:46:16 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4720 4720
More than a thousand people were moved from two holiday villages near Bayonne before dawn, after an anonymous telephone warning to local rescue services that five bombs had been planted.

One device -- a tin of petrol strapped to a detonator -- was found at a resort of the Pierre et Vacances chain at the Basque village of Arcangues. The 600 residents included French citizens and other Europeans including Britons. All resumed their holiday by mid-morning.

Another device was placed outside the Arcangues tourism office and the third on the high-speed rail line near the Atlantic town of Ondres. The railway device was a small gas canister attached to a detonator that could have exploded, police said. Rail traffic was halted along the coast from Bordeaux going southwards, holding up passengers on 60 trains for up to two hours.

No bombs were found at the other sites -- a holiday village at Anglet, the celebrated casino in Biarritz and a hotel and restaurant run by the superchef Alain Ducasse in the Basque town of Biadarray.

http://www.independent.ie/world-news/europe/holidays-disrupted-by-bombs-in-pyrenees-1450738.html


Linkback - Holidays disrupted by bombs in pyrenees
]]> 8/10/2008 9:43:01 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4719 4719
When contacted, MTA Quality Assurance director Frank Farrugia told The Sunday Times: "The complaints were very similar to each other and all related to some form of alleged fraud or payments which they felt were unfair."

The complaints - around 50 in total - have been forwarded to the police's Economic Crimes Unit or the Consumer and Competition Division or both, Mr Farrugia explained. Serena's owner and manager, Joe Vella, strenuously denies any wrongdoing and maintains guests were aware of the charges he debited.

Several tourists recounted their experience to The Sunday Times, claiming Mr Vella charged them hundreds, in many cases thousands, of euros in various incidents dating back to 2003. Guests said they made formal reports to the police and the MTA but have not been refunded or compensated.

Their stories are almost identical: A cheap holiday is offered to them by an online bargain tour operator like Bonus Week Breaks or The Gift Company - on condition that they attend a two-hour promotional talk on timeshare.

Then, they claim, Mr Vella contacts them and offers them free transport from the airport to the hotel. On arrival, he asks guests to sign a registration form and to hand over a credit card for "security reasons", assuring them that no charges would be made.

After that, they allege, he charges their account without their permission. The tourists allege that when they complain, Mr Vella produces a document which had either been given to them when they checked in or at that particular moment. This states that guests have paid on a 'room only' basis and that it is "compulsory" to pay - on arrival - for breakfast, dinner and utility fees. This amounts to an additional €490 per person a week.

On the popular travel website tripadvisor.com, 28 of the 35 reviews about the hotel speak of exorbitant "added" charges and a hotel manager to "beware" of. The negative reviews began in 2004 but have continued to appear persistently throughout 2007 and this year.
Mr Vella has on several occasions been questioned by police but has never been charged with an offence related to the allegations - the reason being that the case relates more to unfair tactics than to fraud or other illegal behaviour.

Mr Vella, who is from Malta, was fined by the authorities in 2003, but over a different matter when he advertised his two-star hotel as a five-star property. He felt it was unfair that the high quality Serena has such a lowly classification.

When contacted, Mr Vella offered three different versions as to why the reviews were on the tripadvisor website: first, that they were written by a person who bears a grudge against him; second, that various Gozitan hotel and restaurant owners were behind them because they disliked him; and third, that there was a particular travel agency which had given rise to a misunderstanding.

"I challenge you to write something. I have all the documentation to prove my case. If you write something I will ruin you, in every way," Mr Vella said.

Many of the former guests contacted by The Sunday Times said they want to get their money back and put Mr Vella out of business. They indicated a willingness to travel to Malta to testify in court - though they admit that this could be an expensive and therefore counter-productive exercise.

Edward Humphrey, a British tourist who stayed at the hotel in June, said: "Mr Vella told us that we could not stay there if we do not supply a credit card, so we had to concede. Thankfully, a taxi driver warned us that Mr Vella had a reputation."

So Mr Humphrey went to an ATM immediately to withdraw enough cash for the rest of his holiday and cancelled his credit cards. When he contacted his bank at home, however, he was told that the Serena Hotel had already taken £1,600 from the account.

This happened on the third day of his two-week holiday, which consisted of going back and forth from the police station and the hotel.

Mr Vella told police who questioned him at the hotel that there had been a mistake and that Mr Humphrey would be refunded accordingly.

But one night Mr Humphrey and his wife came back to the hotel to find they were locked out of their room. Mr Vella told them that he wanted them out because they were "troublemakers". The 'troublemaking' included speaking to other guests about their experience and encouraging everyone to check their accounts.

"Everyone else who checked their accounts found that Mr Vella had taken a similar amount of money from them. Even a couple of pensioners!" he said.

However, Mr Vella said that Mr Humphrey had only paid the commission to the travel agent who booked the accommodation, and that he knew full well that on arrival he had to pay for food and hotel utilities. When asked to specify which travel agent he was referring to, the hotel manager said he could not remember the name.

The Serena Hotel is one of a handful of hotels around Malta and Gozo that is promoted in package deals by Internet-based bargain tour operators. Mr Vella claimed that these companies offered holidays based on flights and accommodation only, and tourists were told beforehand that they would have to pay for breakfast, dinner and hotel utilities.
However, their booking form, seen by The Sunday Times, states only that "all resorts require a small (returnable) inventory deposit and some resorts may require a small utility charge payable at reception on arrival".

No complaints have been filed in relation to the other hotels that form part of these package deals - although their reviews on tripadvisor.com are not always positive.
Mr Humphrey's account is similar to that of John Craig, who in 2003 alleged that Mr Vella debited €568 from his credit card without permission.

The matter went to court - though the hotel manager told The Sunday Times he could not recall the incident - and Mr Vella was acquitted because of insufficient evidence.
In another incident, Susan Spencer and Michael Rees, who stayed at the hotel during the first two weeks of July, returned home and discovered that Mr Vella had debited €3,000 from their account.

Mr Vella insists that he was owed the sum for breakfast and dinner during their two-week stay, together with the three other adults they were travelling with.
Mr Farrugia said that, to his knowledge, the type of complaint levelled against the Serena Hotel had not been made about any other establishment in Malta or Gozo.

He also confirmed that the number of complaints was excessive in relation to those received about other hotels, though he stressed that this did not necessarily mean they were genuine.

Mr Farrugia also explained that in many cases, sales are made by tour operators directly to the customer - so misrepresentation may be taking place at that stage. In fact, in some cases, tourists were compensated for their experience at the Serena Hotel by their tour operators.

Mr Farrugia told The Sunday Times that the police, the Consumer and Competition Division and the MTA were working hard at trying to verify the number of complaints they received in the past months about the hotel.

Yesterday, The Sunday Times received another letter on behalf of 20 tourists currently staying at the hotel.

"We have got together as a group and have registered a crime of credit card abuse with the police in Victoria... We intend to make as much fuss as possible. This man... shouldn't be getting away with this," the letter stated.

http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20080810/local/tourists-accuse-gozo-hotel-of-foul-play


Linkback - Tourists accuse gozo hotel of foul play
]]> 8/10/2008 9:33:57 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4718 4718
We have a week-end break booked in a one bed at Kenmore on the 12th -
14th Dec. this year.

Due to us deciding to spend longer in Paris for my 50th, we can now no
longer take this break.

It cost us 2700 points - I reckon that is worth about 190 quid (sorry
pound sign not working) on the rental market.

Anyone want to take it for about half of that? Offer me 100 and it's
yours!

Helen

Linkback - Dec. wek-end at Kenmore for sale
]]> 8/9/2008 7:08:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4717 4717
I'm trying to keep this short. The upshot is that we have been asked to vote on surrendering our holiday certificate and having no further rights or liabilities relating to the timeshare week you own. A 75% vote in favour is required. If termination occurs WMV Limited have offered to take over the assets of the timeshare club and each member will receive free occupation of their unit in 2009 and 2010 with only an £80 housekeeping fee plus utilitiy bill for each week to pay. After that there is an opportunity to holiday there as a rental guest with added flexibility (no details as yet). The timeshare committee has recommended that members vote for this option.

The votes were required by the end of this month. If there were not enough votes in favour then no action would be taken and the timeshare club would continue into 2009 with increased maintenance fees.

The committee will be writing to each member in the coming months, but as we are due to visit in 3 weeks I wondered if there was any other news out there. The committee will not take phone calls, so I can't ring them.

As I only purchased my week from E-Bay and paid £200 for it, I have got nothing to lose by voting in favour, but it is a shame for members who have paid thousands and have enjoyed holidays at the site. Incidentally the unit that Heather stayed in (#1) is the one we bought (week 35). Whilst in the Lakes at April we went to have a look and the cottages look as if they are well maintained.


Linkback - Windermere Marina Village Timeshare in Trouble
]]> 8/9/2008 12:13:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4716 4716
Two-bedroom/two bathroom apartment at Las Farolas, a Silver Crown resort. First floor apartment not far from swimming pool and main facilities of resort. A good sized apartment with small balconies to front and rear - sea views to front and countryside to rear. A small, well maintained resort with friendly and helpful staff. Good restaurant and lounge bar with some entertainment. Use of CLC main site facilities at their main resorts closer to Fuengirola.

Week 28 (mid July)in Segovia block.

Price: Now £500 ono plus transfer fees

Contact Dave or Sue on 00 44 1792873953

Linkback - CLC@Las Farolas - last chance to buy
]]> 8/8/2008 2:19:59 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4715 4715
The action follows an investigation by the Companies Investigation Branch (CIB) of the Insolvency Service.

Investigators found that Key Select Holdings Ltd, Key Select Services Ltd and Key Select Promotions Ltd had traded as Key Select Club. They operated a scheme where customers – for a fee of between £3,000 and £9,000 – would receive each year a certain number of points which could be redeemed for holidays.

The companies’ registered office was at County Arcade, 24 Meliden Road, Prestatyn.
The investigation found that the scheme received £107,250 in joining fees from members.
But after just 12 months of trading the officers abandoned the companies without
providing the accommodation and holidays the members had been contracted for.

Key Select Club members were also misled on the following: into believing it was associated with a third party holiday provider; that the Key Select Club would operate until 2062; that 10% of the subscription fees would be deposited into an account which did not exist; and that upon ceasing to trade in March 2007 their membership would be transferred to another provider, although no such agreement had been made.

The CIB’s investigation was unable to establish how many members the Key Select Club had, although only 10 members successfully booked holidays and a further five members attempted to book holidays but were unsuccessful.

In addition, due to the abandonment of the companies and the absence of books and records the investigation was unable to account for the joining fees.

The companies also failed to comply with various requirements of the Companies Act 1985 and appeared to be insolvent

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2008/08/06/timeshare-scam-firms-in-north-wales-wound-up-55578-21473273/


Linkback - Timeshare scam firms in North Wales wound up
]]> 8/7/2008 7:47:54 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4714 4714
Southwest calls them "customers of size." Medical professionals would use the term "obese." Bloggers and message-board habitues use names that are a lot less polite.

Many people assume that obese people are getting a free ride. But are they? Nearly all airlines keep it very quiet, but many have policies—informal or formal—in place to make sure that passengers of size carry their own weight.

It's a tricky business. In some corners—Canada, for instance—it just got trickier. A winter ruling barred Canadian airlines from discriminating against "clinically obese" customers. Southwest was successfully sued by a passenger who was told she needed to purchase a second seat after she had already boarded—too late, the ruling found. An ample Air France passenger won a case after citing humiliation at the hands of staff who wrapped packing tape around him in public to prove that he was too obese to sit one seat, forcing him to purchase another.

Here's the funny part about those lawsuits: At the time, both Southwest and Air France had actual policies in place for dealing with overweight passengers. Southwest's policy has been around for years. It states that if staff determine that the passenger will not fit in one seat, the passenger must purchase a second, the cost of which will be reimbursed if the flight is not full.

Air France's policy was more loose, urging passengers who knew that not having an empty seat next to them would be a problem, to handle it on their own in advance. As of this writing, Air France passengers "with a high body mass" are warned that if they do not purchase an extra seat their own, they may not be allowed to board. In the end, both airlines were punished for being up front with their customers, even if the execution of the policy perhaps needed work. This is, after all, a terrifically sensitive matter.

Perhaps that is why the topic, with many airlines, tends to be something along the lines of That-Which-We-Don't-Speak-Of. Call up a major carrier like United Airlines and ask what rules they have in place for dealing with the situation, and you'll hear a pregnant pause, followed by a terse "we have no policy."

American is more forthcoming, but hastens to emphasize that in no does it way require passengers to purchase two seats. Spokesman Tim Wagner does say that passengers whose weight exceeds 250 pounds should know that there are "possible limitations that could result in American not being able to accommodate them." He also states that the airline urges passengers to "recognize ahead of time that they may need to purchase two seats." He also cites the FAA regulation that all airlines adhere to—if you can't snap the seatbelt (after the extension is added, that is) you can't fly.

JetBlue doesn't mind taking a more straightforward stance. Spokesperson Alison Eshelman says that their policy requires larger customers who need an additional seat for their own comfort to buy one in advance. If they do not, and the crew cannot accommodate them, they will be required to buy the seat in any case, with no refunds. (However, Eshelman notes correctly that JetBlue does offer its passengers a little more wiggle room with their larger-than-average seat width on board the airline's A320 aircraft.)

But what of the growing awareness among the traveling public that it costs the airline more to transport an obese passenger than a passenger of average weight?

Those hoping for any type of joy in that department should sit on their hands. Delta's Susan Elliott states clearly that the airline "has no plans to implement any policy that discriminates against any of our passengers." Translation: This is one hot potato ain't nobody going to touch.

Here's a look at how a few different airlines deal with the "customer of size:"

Southwest: Passengers should plan on purchasing an extra seat or risk being asked to do so at the airport by staff. If the flight is not sold out, the passenger may claim a refund.
American: Passengers over 250 pounds should recognize that there may be limitations to the service that the airline can provide. However, it does not require that you purchase an extra seat automatically.

United: No policy whatsoever.

Midwest: Like Southwest, passengers are encouraged to know their needs in advance. If staff determine that two seats are required, the seat will be sold at the lowest possible fare, with a refund available if there is one or more open seats on the flight.
Air France: Passengers with "high body mass" may receive a 25 percent discount on an extra seat, knowing that if they choose to not buy the seat, they may risk not being able to fly.

JetBlue: You are required to buy a second seat, and there are no refunds.

Delta: The airline "works to accommodate" passengers with special needs. Upon request and availability, it will try to make sure the next seat is unoccupied. However, if the plane is full, you will most likely be asked to leave the flight and buy a second seat on the next available flight. (You can actually count on this being a fairly typical practice on most airlines.)

http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/some-airlines-may-make-obese-passengers-buy-two-seats.html?id=2644439


Linkback - Overweight - You may pay extra for flights
]]> 8/7/2008 7:45:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4713 4713
PS Any advice on how to sell would be very welcome.. Wanted to for years but I don't know who to trust.

Linkback - Has anyone heard of Timepro International?
]]> 8/7/2008 11:39:12 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4712 4712 Buyer to pay transfer fees. If you are interested please email me on rnbbev@hotmail.co.uk. Thanks for looking[8D]

Linkback - Club La Costa Gold Points at a Bargain Price
]]> 8/6/2008 10:14:32 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4711 4711
On 21 July, Diamond Resorts signed a non-binding letter of intent [LOI] relating to the acquisition of Bluegreen for USD 15 a share, or approximately USD 500m. The agreement allows for Diamond Resorts to conduct “extensive” diligence until 15 September. In its 18 July letter to Bluegreen, Diamond Resorts said it was “confident that it will be able to raise the financing necessary to consummate the proposed transaction.”

A source close to the situation said Bluegreen had taken reasonable steps to satisfy itself “to some extent” that Diamond Resorts could finance the transaction. The source said Bluegreen had been given some insight into Diamond’s financing plans, but would not go into detail. The source acknowledged that financing market conditions were uncertain at present and decisions on both sides of the table could change during the due diligence process.

Yet, a third banker said the timeshare industry has been a steady performer in tough economic times as people have been unwilling to let go of the equity in their timeshare investments. However, he pointed out vacation ownership and residential sales at Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide (HOT), one of Bluegreen’s major competitors, had dropped 28.4% in 2Q08 when compared to the same period in 2007.

The first banker speculated that because a LOI was signed rather than a definitive agreement, financing was probably the biggest question mark surrounding the deal. “I think that they are struggling on financing,” the banker said. Bluegreen is actually taking on the financing risk by allowing Diamond Resorts access to its books with no breakup fee, this banker said. Diamond Resorts had been given access to conduct diligence because it was a highly motivated buyer, and because of the attractive price being offered, the source close to the situation said.

Full Story http://seekingalpha.com/article/88963-bluegreen-can-diamond-finance-the-acquisition

Linkback - Bluegreen: Can Diamond Finance the Acquisition?
]]> 8/6/2008 6:32:45 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4710 4710
1. Confirm your flights
On a recent connection through Las Vegas, traveler Lucy Sarks arrived at the gate to discover that her flight would not be flying and that she had been bumped to a later flight. Explanations were hard to come by, but Sarks later figured out that not only had the flight not flown, but the flight had been cut from the airline's schedule entirely — and her trip was the first one affected. Rather than try to contact a plane full of passengers, the airline chose instead to try to accommodate already-booked passengers on later flights without ever quite revealing why.

With airlines making unpublicized and even unannounced flight cuts all the time, it is easier and cheaper for the airline simply to deal with a few unhappy travelers and perhaps pay for a few nights at a hotel than it is to notify and rebook an entire flight. It is in their best interest to keep you in the dark, so you will want to check periodically in the days leading up to your trip to make sure your flight is still flying, let alone on time.

This problem will only get worse after Labor Day, when many airlines are quietly planning large-scale flight and route cuts. If you are already booked on a fall flight, watch your airline closely for cuts that might affect you.

2. Consider actual final pricing
With so many surcharges now in play, planning a trip is becoming more like spending time on a car lot; you think you're paying one price, but when they tally up the final cost, the numbers are a lot different (and always much higher). Many booking sites and processes seem to try to conceal many of these fees, making it harder to do true comparison shopping. And some of the costs don't even show up until you are actually at the airport, or the car rental desk, etc. As a result, you will want to collect as much information as possible so you can make an educated guess at the true final price with incomplete information at the time of booking. For example, if you purchase a roundtrip flight on an airline that charges $25 for each bag each way, you'll need to add $50 to any flight on that airline when booking flights.

3. Give yourself more time
Airlines are also cutting staff by the thousands; less staff equals fewer people to keep you moving through the airport, and thus longer lines, fewer people to help you with problems and slower progress through the airport. These cuts won't occur only at check-in and other front-line positions but also with baggage handlers and mechanics, resulting in more lost and delayed luggage, as well as increased mechanical delays when support staff can't keep up with maintenance and repair requirements.

We've all noticed it on the road; you actually need to obey the standard two-hour recommendation, which not so long ago was often safely fudged or even ignored. Ignore it now at your peril — and for peak travel at popular airports, you might want to allow yourself even more time.

4. Know luggage rules by airline
I reviewed the burst of surcharges on luggage and more in the past few weeks. Don't get caught opening your wallet wide at the airport when you follow your old routine of two checked bags plus a carry-on, only to find out that one or two of your three items will cost you $15 - $25.

Most folks know by now that the majority of airlines will charge $25 for a second checked bag; fewer realize that Northwest, United, US Airways and Spirit will charge you $15 for a first checked bag, each way. So anytime you are pricing out flights, you'll want to add the applicable baggage charges to the cost of any roundtrip flight on these airlines — or pack more efficiently to lighten your load.

5. Weigh your bags at home
Similarly, your checked bags could cost you if they are overweight; the difference between a 49-pound bag and a 51-pound bag could be $50, the most common fee for any bag weighing in excess of 50 pounds. It is worth noting that if you are traveling with a companion, and he has a 40-pound bag while you have a 52-pound bag, the airline does not average the two and let you pass; you'll still pay for the one overweight bag. If you take the time to weigh your bags before you leave, you can redistribute the contents such that you pay less or nothing at check-in.

As above, you will want to know the luggage rules; while most airlines charge $50 for any bag over 50 pounds, Delta charges $80 and Frontier charges $75; not all overweight bags lighten your wallet by the same amount.

6. Pack lighter, and let the hotel pick up the tab
Many essential travel items can be obtained free of charge in your hotel room or from the front desk — razors, tooth brush and toothpaste, hand soap, hair dryers and more. Instead of packing (and paying for) these items, simply request them at check-in. If you do end up having to purchase them at your destination, you'll find that prices at the CVS don't vary much nationwide.

11. Use the phone for research, not booking
While we're on the topic of phones, you won't want to book your flight on the phone any more (as I have recommended in the past); almost all the major airlines charge anywhere from $10 - $30 for this privilege. Researching flights on the phone without booking, however, won't cost you anything, so if you have questions about certain flights, feel free to call the airline and then book online to avoid the fee.

12. Clip coupons
With rising fuel costs driving up the expense of every component of travel, finding novel ways to save money is essential for many of us to be able to continue to travel at all. Finding specials and discounts on local attractions has been made extremely easy on the Web — simply type in the name of your destination and the word "coupons," and you'll find dozens of ways to save money. Give it a try; you will be surprised at how much dough you can save with this simple tactic that requires no travel agent, tour operator or travel pundit to pull off.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26011826/


Linkback - 12 money-saving travel tips
]]> 8/6/2008 6:30:28 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4709 4709
GoGo will cost Delta flyers $9.95 on flights of three hours or less, and $12.95 for flights that are longer than three hours. Delta says it expects to begin to offer in-flight Wi-Fi early 2009.

American Airlines and Virgin America have been on-board for some time with in-flight Wi-Fi. Both have announced testing of Wi-Fi aboard its airliners for a limited number of flights. But Delta is making a big splash with an ambitious rollout of Wi-Fi to all its domestic fleet. This is big news coming from an airline that has been struggling lately.

According to Delta the first half of 2009 will see 133 of Delta's MD88/90 airplanes equipped with the service with another 200 Boeing 737, 757 and 767-300s to follow suit. Delta hopes to have more than 330 airplanes equipped to provide the Wi-Fi service by the end of 2009 making it the only major US airline to offer the service across its entire domestic fleet.

http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/149413/blog_delta_adds_wifi_to_entire_domestic_airline_fleet.html


Linkback - Delta Adds Wi-Fi to Entire Domestic Airline Fleet
]]> 8/6/2008 6:17:24 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4708 4708 I'm a new member and thought I'd let folks know I've been cold-called by the above company, offering to buy my two weeks in Tenerife for £600. I'd in fact be happy to let them go at this low price and they (Wendy) promised the £600 would be paid into my bank before I had to release any documents. She said I'd receive the necessary documents in a few days and I would have to provide my bank account code and number so they could pay the money into my account. If, she said, I was anxious about giving these details, I could contact my bank who would confirm this was OK.
Today I received three documents. One simply asked me to sign a written statement saying I would accept £600 for my weeks and any transfer fees would be paid by Timeshare Sales. The second was a copy for me. The third was a letter asking me to sign and send the Membership Certificates in the space marked Vendor/Transferor and send to Timeshare sales by Special Delivery.
It now appears I’m being asked to sign away my weeks with no accompanying signatures from Mr Patrick O' Conner, the Director, on any of the documents, promising me any money.
Maybe I’m too suspicious but I'm now waiting on Wendy contacting me to ask why I have not taken up their generous offer.
Probably more to come....


Linkback - Timeshare Sales Ltd
]]> 8/5/2008 10:57:52 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4707 4707
If you are interested please contact me on simon@thegiffs.co.uk
thanks
Simon

Linkback - I have some CLC points to sell
]]> 8/3/2008 7:01:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4706 4706
A recent undercover study by consumer body Which? found that scratch card touts in popular Mediterranean resorts – particularly in southern Spain and the Canary Islands – were luring British tourists into sales presentations with the promise of "star prizes". But to get these prizes, "winners" were having to sit through up to five hours of sales patter.

"Everyone likes to win a prize, but you may have to attend a lengthy presentation with a barrage of confusing information, where you are pressured into parting with thousands of pounds for something you might not even want – without the chance to think it over," warns Lorna Cowan from Which?

And this practice doesn't just happen overseas. You could also be targeted in the UK via a letter or someone cold-calling you at home to say you've won a "free luxury holiday".

So how do these timeshare and holiday club schemes work?

With a legitimate timeshare firm, you buy the right to stay in an apartment or villa for a set period each year. You will usually pay an initial charge, which could be several thousand pounds, plus some form of continuing membership or maintenance fee, which may be between £300 and £400 a year. Ownership rights are confirmed by a real estate register trustee and can be passed on or sold. But timeshare is quite inflexible as your use is usually booked in fixed blocks.

Timeshare holidays have attracted a lot of bad publicity over the years due to the tales of investors who got their fingers burnt. However, legislation is now in place to provide some protection. Under the EU Timeshare Directive, consumers have the right, for example, to obtain information in a prospectus or brochure before signing a contract, and must be given a "cooling off" period of at least 10 days after signing.

Holiday clubs, though, are not covered by these rules. Marketing themselves as the "flexible alternative" to timeshare, they differ in offering the chance to buy discounted holidays from a particular company – with a password to a website, say – instead of a tangible "bricks and mortar" product with ownership rights.

With a holiday club, people are persuaded to pay a joining fee that could range between £5,000 and £15,000, with the promise of cheap deals on hotel rooms and flights in the future. Yet the deals may be no cheaper than those available online or on the high street, and at the moment consumers do not get the same legal cancellation rights or protection if things go wrong.

In June last year, the European Commission announced plans to bring the law governing holiday clubs into line with that for timeshares – a move that was welcomed by consumer groups. Citizens Advice said the proposals would "stamp out some of the very worst abuses" and "close many of the loopholes in the law which have allowed rogue practices to flourish".

The rules, though, are not expected to come into force before 2010, so in the meantime consumers must be on their guard.

"Many people are very happy with timeshares," says Susan Marks, consumer affairs officer at Citizens Advice. "But we've all heard lots of horror stories."

She urges consumers to be wary of any prize or holiday that has to be collected at a presentation. "Don't claim it unless you want to undergo several hours of high-pressure selling."

If you are approached while on holiday, don't get into a taxi or bus provided by a sales rep; companies often choose locations well away from your hotel and out of town, making it more difficult to leave.

"Ignore suggestions that the special offer may not be available later on," adds Ms Marks. "And never make a payment upfront to clinch the deal on a timeshare. If the sales rep asks you to do so, they are acting illegally."

Always request written information about costs, including maintenance fees , as well as details on the companies involved and their responsibilities.

Take these documents away and read them before signing up; written information in your own language is a legal right.

"If you change you mind, act quickly," says Ms Marks. "Check the small print for information about a cooling-off period. If it's a timeshare deal, you may have time to cancel, but you may not have long."

Sandy Grey of the Timeshare Consumers Association says one of the biggest problems is knowing which product you are being sold. "It is difficult to identify whether it is timeshare or a holiday club, as reps tend not to use the word 'timeshare'," he explains. "Timeshare can range from excellent to awful but holiday clubs are generally bad news as on many occasions delivery doesn't match up with the promises made."

He adds, though, that a lot of local authorities are clamping down on touts – in the streets of Tenerife and Malta, for example – so fewer people are being caught out.

"Some credit card companies are also getting better at offering customers protection," he continues. "In some cases, they are helping people to get their money back."

For those people who are set on buying timeshare, he adds, it is better to wait until you return home – and then pick up a "resale" timeshare for a much lower price.

However, remember that there are alternatives. "A more flexible, upmarket timeshare is emerging called fractional ownership," says Melanie Bien from the broker Savills Private Finance. "This enables you to buy a share of a property which you can use for a period each year. But unlike timeshare, you actually co-own the property."

And as your cash goes into the bricks and mortar, you will benefit from any capital gain when the property is sold – though, of course, you will need the co-owners' agreement.

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/house-and-home/property/if-the-holiday-club-rep-drops-by-your-sunkissed-resort-be-on-your-guard-883613.html


Linkback - Don't fall into the timeshare or holiday club trap
]]> 8/3/2008 10:01:39 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4705 4705 MILES Eady and Cara Rodway had a three-week honeymoon in Hawaii and it hardly cost them a penny. The couple knew they couldnt afford to stay in a hotel on the sun-kissed Pacific Ocean islands, so went for a house swap instead.

Cara, 26, says: "Miles and I are huge fans of the TV show Lost and thought it would be fun to visit all the set locations. And Hawaii looked like a great honeymoon destination really beautiful and exotic."

Student Cara posted her details on internet message boards last year, leaving plenty of time to make the swap arrangements before her marriage to Miles in April. She says: I got in touch with an elderly lady in Hawaii whose daughter Leinani has a two-bedroom condo on the island of Oahu. I began emailing Leinani and we built up an online friendship.

Condo (short for condominium) is simply the American name for freehold flats, and on April 1, as Cara and Miles flew to Hawaii, Leinani arrived in London to stay at their one- bedroom flat in Tottenham, North London, for two-and-a-half weeks.

While the newlyweds soaked up the sun on the other side of the world, she saw the sights of London.

Cara says: "The condo had a lovely balcony overlooking beautiful tropical gardens with ponds of koi carp. I found it much more relaxing than a hotel because we didnt have to dress up to go down to breakfast or worry about leaving the room because the maid was coming in. It was also lovely that Leinanis mum Evelyn was there to meet us and show us around the flat. It was so nice to see a friendly face at the end of a long journey.

"And it was so much cheaper than staying in a hotel. We must have saved ourselves at least s2,000, as we were there for nearly three weeks.

"In fact the whole honeymoon didnt really cost us much. On our wedding list we asked for vouchers at Trailfinders and the gifts covered the cost of our flights, which came to about s1,000 for two."

With the cash they saved Cara and theatre administrator Miles, 28, got the most out of their trip by taking a tour of TV locations for Lost (www.hummertourhawaii.com) visiting Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, and taking a helicopter ride to get a birds eye view of the spectacular scenery (www.makanikai.com).

There was an unexpected bonus they caught sight of one of the Lost stars. Cara says: "One day on Kailua beach, we saw Elizabeth Mitchell, who plays Juliet, out jogging. It was very exciting.

She adds: "Home swapping was a really affordable way of going somewhere glamorous and exciting for a fraction of the money we would have had to spend.

"I would definitely recommend it as a honeymoon idea for the cash-strapped its an excellent way to meet people and get a different view of your destination.

"And It also meant we didnt have to worry about our flat being burgled or our plants dying while we were away. Wed definitely house swap again."

HOW YOU CAN DO IT TOO

THERE are several companies in the UK and abroad offering the chance to swap properties, either for a holiday or for a longer period.

Some people planning to emigrate use home-swap organisations to see what it is really like living in the country before they take the plunge.

But most people use it as a chance to holiday in another part of the world without paying for costly accommodation which often means you can stay for longer. Many home- swappers say they find it more relaxing to stay in a house rather than a hotel.

And the accommodation is often of a much higher standard than a self-catering holiday apartment.

And you also have the added advantage of knowing your property isnt lying empty back at home.

Most home-swap websites will charge you a membership fee to advertise your home around the world, although some are free to register. Fees and services vary, so it is worth shopping around to see which suits you best (see the examples on the right as a starter).

Of course, you can arrange your own house swap, but in that case you must build up a good relationship with your swapper and be sure you can really trust them.
You dont want to come home to any nasty surprises...

USEFUL WEBSITES

www.homelink.org.uk has the biggest membership worldwide and will translate your details into 16 different languages. Annual membership s115.
www.homexchangevacation.com is free to register and charges only s16.95 for full membership a year.
www.holidayhomeswap.com is a site for people with holiday homes they want to swap like someone with a second home in Spain or on a Greek island swapping with someone with a chalet in the Alps. Theres free membership for the first year and afterwards its s25 per year.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/advice/holidays/adventure/families/2008/08/02/say-aloha-to-holidays-at-home-115875-20681459/


Linkback - Say Aloha to holidays at home - home swap
]]> 8/3/2008 9:50:26 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4704 4704
Until now, Emirates airline’s dramatic growth had appeared to be unstoppable. As American, European and Asian airlines reported a long list of woes – losses, job cuts, fleet groundings and slower ticket sales – the Dubai carrier seemed to glide through the troubles with record profits and new plane orders.
But the fairy tale success story may get a hard dose of reality this year as Tim Clark, the president, has slashed his profit forecast due to the record-breaking rise in oil prices.

Emirates had expected to make US$1.5 billion (Dh5.5bn) in net profit, up from $1.36bn last year. Now, Mr Clark said he would be content to make several hundred million dollars, a drop of up to 75 per cent.

Lorne Riley, a spokesman for the International Air Transport Association (IATA), said fuel costs were now offsetting revenue growth among Middle East airlines, even as passenger demand had risen.
“The Middle East has the advantage of robust traffic growth and oil-based economies that have thrived, but at the same point the airlines have seen their operating costs go sky high because of the unprecedented hike in oil,” he said. “As a result, some airlines are already changing profits forecasts.”

Mr Clark said the airline was “totally exposed” when oil broke through the $100 barrier and then climbed up to its peak of $147 last month.
The revelation should silence critics who have long complained that Emirates received unfair support from its stakeholder, the Dubai Government.

The principal complaint from rivals, which has been so far unsubstantiated, is that the carrier receives cheap fuel from its owner.

Emirates has consistently denied it received any subsidy, and said it bought fuel from a variety of non-governmental sources in the UAE including Air BP, Shell, Chevron and Exxon. The forecast slump in profits may well finally put an end to the unfounded claims.
Emirates has some distinct advantages over its European rivals – no taxes, low labour costs, the absence of labour unions and cheaper landing fees at its base airport – but subsidised oil is unlikely to be one of them.

More importantly, the changed forecast reveals that Emirates is not immune to the ills that first infected US carriers and have slowly spread around the world.

More than two dozen airlines have gone bust this year, and Airbus and Boeing have begun to see their orders dwindle as customers defer, delay and in some cases cancel expansion plans.
JetBlue, the US budget carrier, has this year twice pushed back plans to buy more jets from Embraer of Brazil. Overall it has delayed deliveries of 31 aircraft, including orders from Airbus.

India’s biggest airline by market share, Jet Airways, had planned to receive two twin-aisle Boeing 777s in October, but now it is reportedly negotiating to defer the delivery date to next year.

In the past few years, one of the most important stories in aviation has been how Gulf carriers have begun to win over passengers that traditionally flew European and Asian carriers on long-haul, transcontinental flights.
In May, the IATA said European and Asian airlines had suffered some of their worst declines in ticket sales in five years.

In the same period, first-class ticket sales for flights between the Middle East and East Asia surged by 17.3 per cent.

The rising passenger numbers and bullish aircraft orders gave the Gulf carriers an air of invincibility amid the deteriorating environment around them.

But Emirates’s latest announcement appears to be a decisive acknowledgement that in the Middle East, record oil carries quite a sting, too.
Labour used to be the single highest cost for Emirates, with oil a relatively small piece of the overall pie.

Now fuel is a staggering 45 per cent of costs, forcing the carrier to rethink its operating model. Recently it raised its ticket prices by five to 10 per cent and moved to cut the overall weight of aircraft by ditching inflight magazines and possibly even footrests.

Only first-class passengers, which account for a significant proportion of revenues despite their small overall passenger numbers, have seen their amenities increase with features like the new showers on the Emirates A380.
Its younger rivals, Qatar Airways and Etihad, have also been hit. The Doha carrier had to shelve plans for a lavish, first-class-only service due to open by the end of this year, citing fuel costs.

Etihad, meanwhile, has acknowledged that its break-even target of 2010 could be compromised, because its fuel hedging contract is smaller next year, leaving it more exposed to current prices.

Ironically, though, Emirates could emerge even stronger than before. When European airlines eliminated their routes during the Gulf War, it kept its planes in the air.
Although Emirates took a hit with passenger numbers, it increased its market share, and when the market rebounded it held onto its gains.

The airline now sits on a formidable war chest of some $4bn in cash reserves, and Mr Clark vows to once again keep its aircraft in the air despite the challenging environment, even if it means compromising profits.

This tactic may work out quite well.

As the airline takes delivery of the quieter, fuel-efficient A380, customers that once flew with European carriers may decide to make the switch permanent.

http://www.thenational.ae/article/20080802/BUSINESS/51233338/-1/NEWS


Linkback - Gloom finally hits Gulf airlines
]]> 8/3/2008 9:48:56 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4703 4703
Bamboozled into a contract which I already see is bad. Do I have the right to cancel. I know I can Cancel the credit agreement but what about the contract with St Frances Marketing? As this is a share on a boat does the cooling off period apply? If not does anyone have any advice?

Linkback - Help and advice required St Frances Marketing
]]> 8/3/2008 8:40:59 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4702 4702
Linkback - 210k wyndham points (2 br) timeshare for sale
]]> 8/1/2008 7:17:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4701 4701
Apparently the first booking was cancelled in May, but no one from RCI told us about this until middle of July!!! Luckily, they have found us alternative accommodation in the same size apartment (3-bedrooms) at a different resort, although one suggestion from RCI, at first, was for accommodation at two different resorts!

What happened to the original accommodation booked? Why is it no longer available?

I have heard of people phoning up resorts a few days prior to going, only to find that there is no record of their booking for that resort!! What would happen if people turn up at a resort on a Saturday/Sunday and there is no record of their booking - RCI office are shut so who can the resort check with? [:(]

Sue [8D]


Linkback - Cancellation by RCI of booked accommodation
]]> 8/1/2008 5:32:43 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4700 4700
Linkback - Priority Week
]]> 7/31/2008 6:07:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4699 4699 They say they have a buyer and want to give us free hotel accommodation in order to complete the transaction.
I havent heard of this type of marketing co before. Any suggestions please? Thanks.

Linkback - Holiday Trading
]]> 7/31/2008 2:05:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4698 4698 GalleryPublished Date: 15 July 2008
By Erikka Askeland
SCOTLAND'S biggest independent hotel chain has threatened to cut off power and water to an exclusive timeshare resort in a bitter row over utility bills.




Macdonald Hotels has warned the 3,000 owners at the Loch Rannoch development that unless they pay a disputed bill of £450,000 by next week, it will cut off the supplies to the prestige lodge complex.

The ultimatum is contained in a letter from Robert Scott, finance director of Macdonald Resorts, which has been in dispute with the timeshare owners for the past five years.

In the letter, seen by The Scotsman, Scott warned the owners' committee that unless "full payment" of the sum the hotel chain claims it is owed is made by 24 July the group would have "no alternative" but to cut off the lodges' water and electricity.

The letter was sent to Loch Rannoch Highland Club, which represents the 3,000 timeshare owners of 85 lodges at the Loch Rannoch Resort.

In 2003, timeshare owners led by chairman Bill Gent, Roderick Galbraith and Allan Kenneth took control of the club's committee. They took the management contract away from Macdonald Hotels and awarded it to another member, Edward Monks, director of Timeshare Management Services (TMS).

Macdonald Hotels continued to supply utilities to the site and now claims the owners owe £451,352 for water and electricity from July 2003 to May 2008.

The management committee disputes this figure and submitted a payment to the hotel group in May for £177,819 – but only on the condition it was accepted as payment in full.

Monks told The Scotsman yesterday: "We paid for the electricity but we paid it under condition they accepted the cheque as the settlement of the liability between us and them.

"They owe the club some management fees but they refuse to accept that condition."

The hotel admits it has refused to pay the club management fees for 164 weeks of timeshare while they are in dispute with the committee. But the group has rejected the committee's payment as "wholly unacceptable".

"We only took the decision to shut down the electricity and water because their terms insisted the payment was full and final," said Gordon Fraser, deputy chief executive of Macdonald Hotels and Resorts.

The hotel group says the club owes a further £440,000 for management fees over and above those fees currently being collected annually by the club. Other fees add up to more than £1 million.

Now the hotel group has engaged Paul Cullen, QC, and intends to take the club to court to collect the debts after the club rejected an offer to settle the debt for over £500,000 last year.

The terms of last year's deal would have allowed members access to leisure facilities at the Macdonald Loch Rannoch hotel next door, which they have been banned from using since the new committee took control in 2003. Other terms included management of the club reverting to Macdonald Resorts in 2010 when TMS's contract lapses.

How relations soured at first resort of its kind

THE 85 cottages beside the idyllic Loch Rannoch in Perthshire were built in 1976 as the UK's first timeshare resort.

It was developed by Barratt International and timeshare pioneer Frank Chapman.

In 1991 Macdonald Hotels, owner of the neighbouring Loch Rannoch Hotel, took a 50 per cent stake in nine of Barratt's timeshare resorts, including the one at Loch Rannnoch.

In 1996 when the hotels group floated on the stock exchange, it bought Barratt out.

The move was controversial and led to a collapse in relations between the hotel group and the owners.

Owners claimed that the buildings were in need of repair and fees shot up to cover the costs.

And in 2003 a group of activists timeshare owners took control of the committee and agreed to transfer management of the timeshare from Macdonald Hotels & Resorts to Timeshare Management Services.

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts responded by banning members from hotel facilities, arguing the new committee had not negotiated a new contract.

A court date set for May 2006 was postponed for negotiations to go on but the two groups were unable to reach a agreement.

An offer from the committee to buy Macdonald Hotels out of the hotel for £2m was later rejected.

In 2007 Macdonald chairman Donald Macdonald proposed a settlement that was also rejected by the committee.

Linkback - Macdonald's with the HEAVEY stuff at Loch Rannock
]]> 7/31/2008 7:55:48 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4697 4697 DEEFADOG!

Linkback - convert points to weekly ownership
]]> 7/30/2008 8:52:31 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4696 4696
Linkback - Timeshare Computer Link
]]> 7/30/2008 9:43:09 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4695 4695
Bluegreen shares closed Monday at $6.44, off from a 52-week high of $11.85, before the deal was announced. The company had calculated its book value at $12.37 a share as of March 31. Alan B. Levan, Bluegreen's chairman, said the company had been considering options for the next three to five years.

"When Diamond presented our board with this unsolicited, attractive offer, we believed that it was in the best interest of our shareholders to pursue this transaction at this time," Levan said in a statement.

Levan also is chairman of Fort Lauderdale-based BankAtlantic and chairman and chief executive of Woodbridge Holdings Corp., which owns 9.5 million shares of Bluegreen stock. He indicated that Woodbridge would back the proposed deal, the statement said.

Diamond has been buying up rivals to become one of the world's largest vacation ownership companies. It now boasts 110 branded and affiliated resorts in 14 countries in the Americas, Hawaii and Europe, with more than 360,000 owners. In April last year, Diamond bought time-share heavyweight S.unterra Corp. for approximately $750 million.

Bluegreen said it has granted Diamond an exclusive right of negotiation through Sept. 15. A final sale agreement must be approved by Bluegreen's board and shareholders. The deal would affect about more than 6,000 Bluegreen employees worldwide, including about 600 at its headquarters at the T-Rex Corporate Center off Interstate 95 and Yamato Road in . In December, Bluegreen extended its lease on roughly 192,000 square feet at the T-Rex center for 10 years, a corporate spokeswoman said Monday.

Bluegreen offers time shares in more than 40 resorts and in an exchange network, with more than 186,500 owners. It also sells land for homes in planned residential and golf communities. Its time-share business is growing, but home-site sales have slowed with a weak housing market. In the quarter ended March 31, Bluegreen said revenues fell by $10.5 million to $111.3 million a year earlier because of weaker home-site sales. Net income slipped to $1.4 million from $5.3 million in the year-ago quarter.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080728170/Latest/Las-Vegas-Timeshare-Firm-Buys-Timeshare-Company-Bluegreen-Corp.html


Linkback - Bluegreen Corp agrees to sell to Diamond Resorts
]]> 7/30/2008 6:31:31 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4694 4694
HOLIDAYMAKERS staying in lodges on the shores of the idyllic Loch Rannoch in Perthshire this summer have no need to fear - they will have water and electricity.

The courts have intervened in a dispute in which the owners of timeshare lodges would have faced having the supply of utilities to 85 cottages shut down.

The order is the latest in a long-running feud between Macdonald Hotels, owner of the Loch Rannoch Hotel next door to the timeshare resort, and the committee of the Loch Rannoch Highland Club, which represents and manages the timeshare on behalf of the club's 3,000 timeshare owners.

Since the committee wrested management of the club away from Macdonald Hotels in 2003, the two groups have been at loggerheads over fees, access to facilities and the rightful management of the club.

Last month, Macdonald threatened to shut off utility supplies to the cottages unless bills amounting to more than GBP 450,000 were settled in full by 24 July.

The committee says it had paid Macdonald for the utilities, minus the amount of money it says it is owed by the group. In May, the committee submitted payment of GBP 177,819. Last Thursday, on the day of the deadline, the committee met with Gordon Fraser, the deputy chief executive of Macdonald Hotels and Resorts.

"We had an hour of very good debate," Fraser said. "We probably set out more clearly where our differences lay.

"I'm not sure how much progress we made. At the end of it, I did say they had to pay out the money or we would be terminating supplies."

The committee went to court to get an interdict on the proposed shutdown, but the court refused. Instead, the court ordered the committee to lodge a "bond of caution" guaranteeing the full amount due.

The committee must pay for future supplies or arrange to get its own utilities while the hotel agreed not to terminate them.

The two parties face a further battle in the Court of Session in October over the disputed money as well as other outstanding claims and counter-claims. Although the hotel management is disappointed that it did not get the money it sought, it was pleased that the issue had been resolved for now.

"We are delighted at that outcome," said Fraser. "Really it was last resort and it was something we weren't looking forward to doing.

"I have to admit we don't have the money in our bank account and we have to go to the courts to get that, but we are in a much better position. I am sure the owners are delighted because we didn't want to cause any problem for members of the club."

Allan Kenneth, the junior vice-chairman of the committee, said: "We will be taking steps either to separate supplies or make sure we get the bills."

http://www.istockanalyst.com/article/viewiStockNews+articleid_2440559~title_Loch-Rannoch-Lodges.html


Linkback - Loch Rannoch Lodges Secure Utility Supplies
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There are still bargains, even with the poor sterling-euro exchange rate, which makes holidays in the eurozone more expensive, and the gloom surrounding the economy, which has increased demand for holidays at home. As visitors stay away from eurozone destinations, so operators are dropping prices to fill empty rooms. In the UK, people are booking late, forcing operators to flush them out with deals.

UNITED KINGDOM
Britain’s three main visitor organisations all have lots of information on last-minute deals: Enjoy England (020 8846 9000; www.enjoyengland.com), Visit Scotland (0845 225 5121; www.visitscotland.com) and Visit Wales (0870 830 0306; www.visitwales.com). Also see www.monsterfamilyfun.com.

BookDirectRooms (0845 121 1523; www.bookdirectrooms.com) has a 30 per cent discount sale in August on a wide selection of b&bs.

The six-bedroom Old Vicarage in Lee, Devon, is available from Marsdens Cottage Holidays (01271 813777; www.marsdens.co.uk) for arrivals on August 23. Rental for seven nights is £1,725 (saving £425).

B&b at the four-star Mercure Holland House in Bristol costs £78 per room per night (saving £109) when booking with Superbreak (0871 222 3055; www.superbreak.com). The price is valid for Monday to Thursday stays in August.

The four-star Cavendish Hotel (020 7930 2111; www.thecavendishlondon.com) in St James’s, London, has a “Sizzling Summer Offer” of £138 per room per night (saving £256.95) in a Classic Double Room with breakfast. The price is valid for stays of two nights or more until August 31.

Self-catering in a Scandinavian-style lodge at Kingsdown Holiday Village (01304 361205; www.kingsdownpark.net) in Kingsdown, Kent, costs £594 (saving £50) for a week’s stay taken before August 23.

Hotel Club (0871 811 1377; www.HotelClub.co.uk/latedeals) has three nights’ b&b in a double room at the four-star Best Western Cromwell Hotel in South Kensington, London, for £105 per room per night (saving £145) until August 9.

Hill View House, near Freshwater Bay on the Isle of Wight, is available with Red Funnel Holidays (0844 844 9988; www.redfunnel.co.uk) for £1,522 per week (saving £450) until the end of August. The five-bedroom property sleeps 10 and the price includes return ferry travel for a car and passengers.

Condor Breakaways (0845 230 3241; www.condorbreaks.com) offers three nights’ b&b for the price of two in the three-star Ambassadeur Hotel near St Helier, Jersey, until August 31. The offer includes ferry crossings and costs £239 per person, based on two sharing.
Rookery Hall Hotel & Spa (0845 458 0905; www.handpicked.co.uk) in Cheshire is offering Sunday stays in August for £99 per person (saving £50). Offer includes two spa mini-treatments and a three-course dinner.

The Four Seasons Hotel in Perthshire (01764 685333; www.thefourseasonshotel.co.uk) has a “Happy Mondays” offer available throughout August. Book one night’s dinner, bed and breakfast on Sundays or Tuesdays from £79 per person and stay the Monday night free.

EUROZONE
Unfavourable exchange rates have affected bookings in these areas and in response many tour operators and villa owners are offering late deals to encourage visitors. The downturn in the Spanish property market has also had an impact, which means that great deals are available on villas.

There is also more flexibility on dates and the number of nights you can stay, useful because it allows you to book your accommodation around the cheapest flight offers, which are usually midweek. See www.holidaylettings.co.uk, www.estepona-villas.com, www.interhome.co.uk and www.holiday-rentals.co.uk for more deals.

Villa La Ginestra, a three-bedroom property near Castellina, Tuscany, which sleeps up to eight, costs £1,889 (saving £661) for the week starting August 16 through Citalia (0871 664 0253; www.citalia.com).

Five nights’ half board at Hacienda de San Rafael, a country inn in Seville, costs £844 (saving £145 per person) through Kirker Holidays (020 7593 2283; www.kirkerholidays.com). Available until August 27 and includes one free night, car hire and return flight.

Seven nights’ half board at the four-star Hotel Falesia in Acoteias, Portugal, costs £472 per person (saving £150) through Portland Holidays Direct (0870 500 2200; www.portlanddirect.co.uk). Includes return flight from Glasgow on August 14.

Planos Holidays (01373 814200; www.planos.co.uk) offers self-catering at Villa Begonia, a two-bedroom property near Lakka, on the Greek island of Paxos, for £2,950 per family of four (saving £370). Includes return flight from Gatwick on August 11.

Scott Dunn (020 8682 5000; www.scottdunn.com) has seven nights at Moliets in Aquitaine, France, for £4,185 for a family of four (saving £1,200) for the week commencing August 27. The price includes a chef and food for five days, but not flights.
Interhome (020 8780 6629; www.interhome.co.uk) offers seven nights at a villa with private pool and sea view in Calpe, Spain, for rent during August costing £789 (saving 33 per cent). The property sleeps six guests and flights are not included. Quote reference ES9730.107.1 when booking.

Seven nights’ half board at the three-star Hotel Berna in Limone, Italy, costs £369 per person (saving £204) when departing on August 13 from Stansted. Book through Inghams (020 8780 4454; www.inghams.co.uk).

Self-catering in a three-bedroom villa in the Ardeche, France, costs £548 per property (saving £150) for one week’s stay in August. Book through VFB Holidays (01452 716840; www.vfbholidays.co.uk) quoting reference GAU.07.

B&b at the three-star Vime Byron Hotel in Venice costs £63 per room per night (saving £155) for arrivals before August 9. Book with Hotel Club (0871 811 1377; www.hotelclub.co.uk/latedeals).

Voyages Jules Verne (0845 166 7035; www.vjv.com) offer seven nights’ b&b at Vila Camacho near Funchal, Madeira, for £355 (saving £40) with return flight departing on August 24.

EASTERN EUROPE AND TURKEY
If you are looking for cheap summer sun with plenty of culture and beautiful beaches, this area is perfect, but it’s worth spending time choosing accommodation if you want to avoid the busier resorts. Helpful sites include www.specialplacesinturkey.com,
www.turkishplaces.co.uk, www.fregatatravel.co.uk and www.cottagestocastles.com.
Thomson (0871 230 2800; www.thomson.co.uk/cruise) offers a full-board, 12-night Baltic cruise on the Thomson Celebration for £749 (saving £550 per person), based on two sharing an inside cabin. The ship departs from Harwich on August 5 and ports of call include Helsinki, St Petersburg, Tallinn, Warnemünde as well as Stockholm and Kalundborg for Copenhagen.

Singles’ specialist Friendship Travel (0871 200 2035; www.friendshiptravel.com) has availability at Villa Aurora in Turkey during August. Seven nights’ half board costs £599 per person (saving £59), including return flight departing from Gatwick.

Vino Cottage (sleeps six) in the Goricko National Park, Slovenia, is available from One Off Places (01494 881196; www.oneoffplaces.co.uk/viewPropertyDetails.aspx?ID=228) for arrivals between August 16 and 23. Cost is £320 for one week (saving 20 per cent).

James Villa Holidays (0800 074 0122; www.jamesvillas.co.uk) has self-catering at Caner villa in Bodrum, Turkey, for £676 per adult, based on four sharing (saving £115). Includes return flight from Stansted on August 11.

BA Holidays (0844 493 0758; www.ba.com) has four nights’ b&b at the four-star Rodina hotel in Sofia, Bulgaria, at £348 per person (saving £31 plus children aged 2-12 stay free) departing Heathrow in August.

Three nights’ b&b at the three-star St George Hotel in Prague costs £199 per person (saving £45) with Cities Direct (01242 536900; www.citiesdirect.co.uk). The offer includes return flight departing from Manchester on August 12.

Seven nights’ b&b at the three-star Hotel Neptun in Porec, Croatia, costs £414 per person (saving £100) through Holiday Options (0844 477 0452; www.holidayoptions.co.uk). The price includes return flight departing from Gatwick on August 9.

Seven nights’ b&b at the four-star Hotel Serpina in Bodrum costs £374 per person (saving £90) with Thomson (0870 550 2555; www.thomson.co.uk). The offer includes return flight departing from Cardiff on August 17.

Inghams Villas (020 8780 7778; www.inghamsvillas.co.uk) has self-catering in a two-bedroom apartment in Rab, Croatia, available for departures on August 16. The offer price is £546 per week for up to four people (saving £90), excluding flights. Quote reference HR3700.301.2 when booking.

The Travel Holiday Shop (0141 416 3137; www.travelholidayshop.co.uk) has a seven-night Turkish gulet cruise for £249 per person (saving 13 per cent) available for arrivals on August 15. The offer includes full board, but excludes flights.

NORTH AFRICA
It will be hot here during August, but if you like that then this is the choice for you. Voyages Jules Verne (0845 166 7003; www.vjv.co.uk) and Sovereign (0871 200 6677; www.sovereign.com) offer a range of holidays across the region.

Club Med (08453 676767; www.clubmed.co.uk) has seven nights’ full board at its resort in Agadir, Morocco, available for arrivals on August 30. Offer excludes flights and costs £399 per person (saving £91).

Seven nights’ half board at the five-star Marriott Beach Resort in Taba Heights, Egypt, costs £625 per adult and £489 per child (saving £168 for a family of four) when travelling from Gatwick or Manchester on August 9, 16 or 24. Book through Peltours (020 8371 5200; www.peltours.com).

One Off Places (01494 881196; www.oneoffplaces.co.uk) has b&b at the four-bedroom Riad Merstane in Marrakech available throughout August. The offer price is £756 for seven nights, including a 20 per cent discount.

Travel Republic (020 8974 7200; www.travelrepublic.co.uk/Deals) has seven nights’ b&b at the three-star Sindbad Hotel in Hammamet, Tunisia. The offer costs £645 including return flight departing from Gatwick on August 13.

Sovereign (0871 200 6677; www.sovereign.com) offers four nights for the price of three at the five-star Riad Lotus Ambre Hotel in Marrakech for £519 per person. The price includes breakfast and return flight departing from Luton on August 18.

A 14-day tour of Egypt, including a seven-night Nile cruise, is available from World Discovery (01306 888799; www.worlddiscovery.co.uk) for £645 per person (saving £100) during August. The offer includes all excursions, breakfast, seven lunches and seven dinners. Flights from the UK are not included.

Four nights’ b&b at the Al-Andalus Hotel in Tripoli costs £809 per person through The Classic Traveller (0800 988 5843; www.theclassictraveller.co.uk). The offer is available for departures from Heathrow on August 5.

Mark Warner (0871 703 3944; www.markwarner.co.uk) offers half board at its beach resort in Dahab, Egypt, for £695 per person (saving £100). The price includes all activities and return flight departing on August 28.

Kuoni (01306 747008; www.kuoni.co.uk) has three nights’ b&b at the four-star Le Méridien Pyramids in Cairo for £580 per person (saving £160). The offer includes KLM flights departing from Heathrow on Mondays and Wednesdays between August 11 and 20.
The Classic Traveller (0800 988 5843; www.theclassictraveller.co.uk) has a seven-night, full-board Nile cruise aboard the MS RA I for £499 per person (saving £110). Return flight is included, departing from Gatwick on August 25.

LONG HAUL
Sales of long-haul holidays remain brisk, despite fuel surcharges, but operators such as Tropical Sky (0870 907 9605; www.tropicalsky.co.uk), Virgin Holidays (0871 222 5825; www.virginholidays.co.uk) and Kuoni (01306 747002; www.kuoni.co.uk) all have late package deals. If you prefer to book travel and accommodation separately, Hotel Club (0871 811 1377; www.hotelclub.net) and www.cheapflights.co.uk are good options because of their worldwide coverage.

Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the four-star ClubHotel Riu Garopa in Santa Maria, Cape Verde, is available with Portland Holidays Direct (0870 500 2200; www.portlanddirect.co.uk) for £580 (saving £100 per person). Based on two sharing and includes flight departing Gatwick on August 29.

Seven nights’ room only at the four-star Kona Coast Resort in Hawaii costs £798 per person (a saving of £266), based on two sharing a villa. The price includes flights from Heathrow to Hilo, via Chicago and Honolulu, departing August 25. Book through Expedia (0871 226 0808; www.expedia.co.uk).

Somak (020 8423 3000; www.somak.co.uk) has 14 nights’ half board at the three-star Kinondo Beach Retreat in Kenya available for £749 per person (saving over 20 per cent). This offer includes return Monarch Airlines flight departing from Gatwick on August 25.
ITC Classics (01244 355527; www.itcclassics.co.uk) offers eight nights’ b&b in a three-bedroom villa at the five-star Ritz-Carlton Bahrain for £989 per person, including three free nights, flights and transfers. Valid for travel until September 30.

Hayes & Jarvis (0871 664 0246; www.hayesandjarvis.com) has five-nights’ b&b at the five-star Shangri-La Al Waha hotel near Muscat, Oman, for £599 per person (saving 25 per cent). Departs Heathrow on August 10.

TransIndus (020 8566 2729; www.transindus.com) has a 16-day Southern Grandeur group tour to South India for £1,898 per person (saving £100) departing Heathrow on August 9. The tour covers Tamil Nadu, Mysore, Coonoor, Cochin, Kerala and Periyar and includes accommodation and most meals.

Carrier (0161 491 7630; www.carrier.co.uk) offers 14 nights’ full board for the price of seven at Le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort, Mauritius for £2,190 per person (saving £845) based on two sharing a Superior River View room. Valid for travel before August 21 and includes flight from Heathrow.

First Choice (0871 664 9011; www.firstchoice.co.uk) has 14 nights’ all-inclusive at the four-star SuperClubs Breezes in Costa do Sauipe, Brazil, for £849 per person (saving £410). Return flight is included departing from Manchester on August 21.

Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the four-star LaSource in Grenada is available from singles holiday specialist Friendship Travel (0871 200 2035; www.friendshiptravel.com) for £1,399 per person (saving £300). Valid for travel before August 31 and includes transfers and flights from Gatwick.

Pure Luxury (0844 472 0100; www.pureluxuryholidays.co.uk) offers seven nights’ half board at the five-star One & Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives for £2,489 (saving £270). Includes a free night and return flight between August 11 and September 30.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/2464650/50-last-minute-summer-holiday-bargains.html


Linkback - 50 last-minute summer holiday bargains
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Budget carriers Ryanair and easyJet have announced cuts to destinations in Spain and Eastern Europe while British Airways is expected to deliver cuts to its own timetables as early as the end of this week.

Ryanair on Monday announced its profits had plunged 85 per cent and blamed the record oil price for nearly doubling its fuel bill.

The situation for airlines could become even more bleak if the slowing economy, coupled with rising food, energy and fuel bills, leads passengers to cut back on air travel.

Ryanair has said it will temporarily stop flying to seven airports including Basel, Budapest, Palma and Valencia this winter, while easyJet has also said routes from Stansted to Almeria and Valencia will stop.

The airline will also cut tickets prices to make sure it does not end up flying planes that are not full.

Both airlines are also sending fewer flights to some existing destinations.

This winter, Ryanair will cut 14 per cent of its flights from Stansted, with flights to Rome down by a fifth and to Glasgow by nearly a third, while easyJet has said it will cut capacity at the same airport by 12 per cent.

Andrew Fitchie, an airlines analyst at Collins Stewart, said other airlines would follow, with the business climate predicted to become "much worse".

He said: "The are all basically saying the same thing and it's going to be a logical progression."

"This industry has never seen the stresses like it's seeing right now or like it's going into. It's seen some shocks before, but never anything like this and it's going to be messy."

A spokesman for BA said it would announce capacity cuts in the next few weeks. He said: "At the moment we are looking in the region of reducing our capacity over the winter season by about three to five per cent – although we are still working through the exact details."

Bmi, Britain's third largest airline, said it was currently "reviewing" its winter schedule.
Even though oil has dropped to around $125 a barrel from a high earlier this month of $145, airlines are still struggling to break even.

Announcing Ryanair's latest results, Michael O'Leary, chief executive, said the airline's fuel bill rose 93 per cent to £289.6m (367 million euros) in the three months to June 30, and grew from 36 per cent of its operating costs to almost half.

However, Mr O'Leary said Ryanair would cut ticket prices if necessary to ensure it was not flying half empty planes.

He said: "We now believe that our average fares for the year may fall by as much as 5 per cent if European airfares plunge this winter.

"Ryanair will lead this downward pricing at a time when most of our competitors are hoping to raise fares and fuel surcharges."

Mr Fitchie said "Ryanair is directly in the path of the current economic storm. Its demand is made up of leisure traffic, much of which is highly discretionary short break holidays – the leisure segment most vulnerable to economic squeeze.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travelnews/2465970/More-budget-airlines-to-drop-routes-as-oil-price-bites.html


Linkback - Budget airlines to drop routes as oil price bites
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I know it's short notice, but De Vere haven't managed to rent out our week 32 (starts Sunday 10th August) at The Carrick. The lodge is 2-bed overlooking the 18th hole. For details of the development see http://www.devere-hotels.com/our-hotels/cameron-house/accommodation/seasonal-ownership-lodges/the-carrick

The development is superb and in a great setting (see my review in the Resort Write-Up forum (http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=5895).

Substantial discount over the brochure price is available. If interested please contact De Vere directly on 01389 755625, or I'll be happy to answer any questions.


Cheers

Rob

Linkback - For Rent - The Carrick, week 32 2008
]]> 7/29/2008 10:14:40 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4690 4690 A friend had previously hired from Easyjet but the price was racked up with hidden extras ie. a charge for valeting the car which I had never encountered previously ! and NO she didn't leave the car in a mess [:D]
Many Thanks in advance for any suggestions

[:)]

Linkback - Malaga Airport
]]> 7/29/2008 10:08:22 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4689 4689
Linkback - Barrington Developments/Stanford Solutions
]]> 7/28/2008 8:45:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4688 4688
Just been on the phone to Rainbow Solutions Marketing, and they sound so similar to Parker & Co they must be the same company! Despite their confirmation when they phoned initially that "there are no up-front fees, the buyer pays all of those", this beauty surfaces.

They require 1800E seller's "Bond", with completion in 4 - 6 weeks. they buyer has to buy as its the end of some financial year and the buyer needs to have a tax write-off.

"What happens if the buyer does not complete?"
"They will complete"
"What if they drop dead? Will I get my "bond" back?"
"We will receive the same offer from another buyer"
"Will I get my "bond" back?"
"We will receive the same offer from another buyer"
"What if they keep pulling out, when will I get my bond back"
"We will receive the same offer from another buyer"
"If I sell my house in the UK Idon't part with any money, why should I with this?"
"Its different"
"How do I know you will not run away with my money?"
"You are covered by 1974 Credit Card protection Act Section 75"
OK, so I can file my bond with my solicitor and he can release it when we complete?"
"no"
"Bye"


And they said, like Parker do, that they will send a courier around to pick up all the contracts etc.

And to quote:

Dear Mr & Mrs XXXXXXXX
Further to our telephone conversation regarding your Timeshare XXXXXXXX, Spain I can confirm the following:

• Pending offer for £19,600
• €1,800 - fully refundable on completion of sale
• No need for security or pin codes
• A usual sale will complete within 4-6 weeks

Should your wish to go ahead a full contract will be drawn up and sent to you.

I hope this is to your satisfaction and look forward to hearing from you in the near future.

Well...its way above market price, which makes it all even more obvious.

UPDATE:
Had a call from them again asking if we had a chance to review and accept the purchase.
I told them I had been speaking with the legal department at our company (small lie) and they had advised we file the bond with a UK solicitor.
Rainbow said the money had to be with the buyers money (???), so I said in that case we would not sell.
They thanked me and said if we wanted to sell in teh future, they were fully booked with buyers up to end of September...which is nice for them.

We got stiffed by T-One the other year, never again.


Linkback - Rainbow Solutions Marketing
]]> 7/28/2008 7:38:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4687 4687


4 points for a correct answer.

Answer to be revealed 03/08/08 unless correctly guessed beforehand



Linkback - Guess what it is - 27 July
]]> 7/27/2008 5:37:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4686 4686
The EU has managed to secure visa-free travel for all its citizens to three additional countries: Israel, Malaysia and Paraguay.

No progress has been reported with Japan, Panama, Singapore or the US since the release of the last Commission report in September of 2007.

The Commission is suggesting that retaliatory measures be taken if Singapore does not grant full reciprocity to all EU citizens within a reasonable period. It did not elaborate, however, on the exact time period or the measures that might be taken.

With regard to the US, the Commission is threatening to propose restoring visa requirement for US nationals holding diplomatic or service passports, beginning 1 January 2009, if no progress is seen.

US citizens can currently travel visa-free to all member states of the EU, but nationals of 12 EU states still need to secure visas for entry to the US.

“It is unacceptable that nationals from some third countries can benefit from visa-free travel to the EU whilst some of our fellow EU citizens can’t travel visa-free to those countries,” commented the European Commission’s vice president, Jacques Barrot, who has responsibility for freedom, justice and security affairs.

The European Commission is making significant progress in its dialogues with Australia and Canada in regard to a visa waiver programme. In addition, negotiations between the EU and Brazil are underway regarding a waiver for short-stay visas.

ec.europa.eu/index_en.htm

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/eu-threatens-retaliation-over-visa-waver-refusals-5633267.html


Linkback - EU threats of action over visa waiver
]]> 7/27/2008 6:33:43 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4685 4685
The budget carrier is on track this fall to become the busiest airline at LAX and also at three other airports in southern California – in the midst of soaring fuel prices and competitors cutting capacity.

Southwest is enjoying the benefits of its successful strategy of buying oil at lower prices, and has been able to contain its expenses while others are struggling to limit losses.

By the use of long-term fuel contracts, the carrier locked in its fuel prices last year based on crude oil prices at $51 a barrel, well below the most recent price of $126 this past week.

During the second quarter of 2008, Southwest paid $2.19 per gallon for jet fuel, on average, compared the $3.51 price that most of the rest of the airlines were paying.

Largely due to this fuel-price hedging, the airline reported a 15% increase in its profits for the second quarter, and was the only US carrier reporting a profit during the period.

As a result of this practice, while others are drastically cutting service, Southwest is holding steady and gaining a bigger share of flights in the region.

www.southwest.com

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/southwest-becoming-busiest-airline-at-southern-california-airports-5633272.html


Linkback - Southwest Airlines shows profit despite fuel costs
]]> 7/27/2008 6:29:02 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4684 4684
A regional pioneer in the fast-growing tourism segment, Emaar Hospitality Group will soon unveil its timeshare roster encompassing serviced residences and custom-designed resorts in Dubai.

Emaar Hospitality Group also plans to expand its timeshare business to other countries in the region too, where the company is currently developing master-planned communities with hospitality & leisure components. These key timeshare markets will include Morocco, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, India, Turkey, Egypt and Indonesia.

Mr Mohamed Ali Alabbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties PJSC, said: "The timeshare market in Dubai is poised for exponential growth with booming inbound tourists driving the demand for spacious accommodation that hotels cannot fully meet."

Originally a European concept, timeshare is a generic term to describe a business model where a property owner sells ‘time-slices' of property to customers. Timeshare projects are projected to generate nearly four times returns compared to traditional real estate, Buy-to-use-and-let and fractional ownership.

Legal framework being developed by Dubai Government for the timeshare concept in Dubai will significantly assist the industry, adding to the vast range of hospitality elements already on offer within the bustling city.

Mr Marc Dardenne, Chief Executive Officer, Emaar Hospitality Group, explained: "A recent survey by NorthCourse Research Firm reveals that Dubai, followed by Sharm El Sheikh and Makkah, is the most preferred timeshare location in the Middle East region. Emaar Hospitality Group is pioneering the move to this promising market, which also brings in the benefits of guaranteed room revenues and assured occupancy post-opening to resorts that we are planning exclusively for timeshare business."

The World Tourism & Travel Council projects tourist arrival of 14 million by year 2015 to the UAE. Further powering the tourism growth is the investments in new airports and hospitality infrastructure.

"Dubai is one of the few destinations that offer the three main attractions preferred by timeshare owners - golf, beach and city-life. Emaar Hospitality Group's timeshare properties will, therefore, appeal to a wide range of holidaymakers not only from the Middle East but also from Europe, a key feeder market for Dubai's tourism industry," said Mr Dardenne.

Emaar Hospitality Group owns and manages a diversified portfolio of hospitality assets such as hotels, serviced residences, golf resorts, polo and equestrian club, recreation clubs, and the Dubai Marina Yacht Club and Marinas.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080722163/Latest/Emaar-Hospitality-Group-Plans-to-Enter-Timeshare-Market.html



Linkback - Emaar Hospitality Group plans for timeshare market
]]> 7/27/2008 6:26:08 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4683 4683
Unions said that it could take most of August to clear the mounting pile of paperwork with staff now embarking on a prolonged work-to-rule action in protest over pay.

The three-day stoppage, which affected seven regional passport offices across Britain and several smaller interview offices, came at the end of a 10-day period of civil service action – the biggest for several years.

It came at one of the busiest times of the year for applications as tens of thousands of families prepare to travel abroad at the start of the English school summer holidays.

While many families on pre-booked holidays will be unaffected because of passport validity checks when they placed their reservations, independent travellers and those taking last-minute breaks are likely to be worst hit by any backlog.

The Identity and Passport Service (IPS) moved to reassure travellers that it could clear the current workload within days and said it had only 140,000 applications now in its system.

But the Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) insisted its estimate of 150,000 applications stacking up was "conservative" and could grow as post turned away by offices swamped with applications added to the pile.

The union warned that a work-to-rule action by its 2,900 members within the service would affect its operations until the end of the summer and hamper efforts to clear any backlog.

Members are angered at a below-inflation pay offer for most staff within the IPS with around a third set to receive no increase at all.

A spokesman defended the decision to press ahead with industrial action at a time when families could be worst hit.

"There was ample time to reach an agreed settlement, indeed that is what we wanted to do," a spokesman said.

"The disruption caused is very regrettable, our members take strike action very much as a last resort but they felt over the last three days that enough is enough, when you have got some of them on £13,000 or £14,000 but effectively taking a pay cut."

A spokesman for the IPS moved to reassure travellers that any backlog would be cleared quickly.

"We have around 140,000 applications in the system at the moment which is entirely typical for this time of year - the peak holiday period," he said.

"We normally process around 115,000 applications a week, so our current workload is six days worth of work.

"As our customer service target is to turn around passport applications in three to four weeks, we are very comfortably in that target."

PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: "The unprecedented action over the last 10 days has demonstrated the need for the Government and employers to start dealing with the issue of below-inflation pay and the impact that real term pay cuts are having on hard working families.

"The action taken is not one taken lightly and should be seen as a last resort by a work force facing unprecedented cuts to their standard of living. "

The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) urged travellers to ensure their passports were up to date before planning a holiday and to make the most of off-peak times when applications can be processed in as little as a week.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/2460287/Holidays-at-risk-as-passport-strike-backlog-hits-150,000.html


Linkback - Holidays at risk- passport strike backlog
]]> 7/27/2008 6:18:55 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4682 4682 I am an owner with Bluegreen (live in the UK) and on Monday it was announced that Diamond International have made an offer of $500 million for Bluegreen.
Bluegreen has over 40 resorts mainly on the east coast of the US and Aruba.
has anyone heard anything on the grapevine or been told anything about this.
we are concerned on how this will inpact on MF club dues etc, Blugreen is a points timeshare company with 185,000 + members


Linkback - Diamond to buy Bluegreen
]]> 7/25/2008 4:17:26 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4681 4681 This company is still active. They have vacated their " newly acquired" rental at Chowley Oaks in Chester and seem to have retreated to either a Midlands or Spanish address. They are introduced by Global Resale, you are contacted by Timeshare clinic( see previous threads) and attend a Full Circle Management presentation where they offer you the chance to regain up to 70% of their valuation after 49 months through a cashback certificate, The certificate comes from spain, the website cannot be activated and the info@ address is rejected by postmaster. All attempts to contact them are dead ends. Do not be misled if you are approached by World RMS telling you everything is OK. They promise to call back and never do.

Linkback - Full Circle Management
]]> 7/24/2008 6:31:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4680 4680
Why?

Surely someone must have something to say!!!

Linkback - What happened to everyone
]]> 7/23/2008 2:40:22 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4679 4679
Linkback - Regency Country Club Tenerife
]]> 7/22/2008 6:15:31 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4678 4678 WE OWN WEEKS AT DIAMOND RESORTS + DIALANEXCHANGE LOOKING TO EXCHANGE FOR HOLLYWOOD MIRAGE 2 BED 1 WEEK JAN FEB OR MARCH 2009
LINDA

Linkback - EXCHANGE
]]> 7/22/2008 9:28:32 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4677 4677
Linkback - flight voucher
]]> 7/21/2008 3:04:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4676 4676 Any Advice greatly appreciated[:)]


Linkback - Which Way Is Best To Sell Timeshare
]]> 7/20/2008 9:54:17 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4675 4675
The site sends out Top 20 and Newsflash emails to its bank of subscribers, flagging up the best holiday deals on the internet.

These include deals from airlines, tour operators, train companies and cruise lines. Travel agents, including Querty Travel in Woking and Gill's Cruise Centre in Cardiff, also advertise their deals through the service.

The number of subscribers has increased by 29% or 230,000 new subscribers in the last 12 months.

Clicks to the Travelzoo Top 20 newsletter indicate that subscriber interest has increased. For the first six months of 2008, average weekly clicks were 340,733, up from 243,158 for the first six months of 2007.

A Travelzoo survey has shown that 36% of subscribers say they booked a travel offer featured in the Travelzoo Top 20 newsletter in the year to May 31, 2008, up from 18% when compared to the same survey in 2006.

The survey also revealed that purchases were highly incremental, as 50% of subscribers said that they had not decided on a destination or dates before receiving the Travelzoo Top 20.

Travelzoo Europe managing director Chris Loughlin said: "Travelzoo is able to generate significantly more incremental demand for travel advertisers. As the UK economy has slowed, we have seen subscriber demand for special offers increase."

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/07/18/28225/travelzoo-reaches-one-million-uk-subscribers.html


Linkback - Travelzoo reaches one million UK subscribers
]]> 7/19/2008 6:29:10 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4674 4674
Since it was first announced two months ago that Perspective Magazine, was to bring out a version for not just timeshare owners, but owners and potential owners of all shared leisure products nothing short of a frenzy of excitement has occurred with Owner Forums around the globe discussing the possible content and recommending it to friends and key industry players pro-actively supporting the new publication by promoting it to their members.

Well now the company responsible, Perspective International Ltd have just released a sneak peak at what to expect from the first edition...

President & CEO, Paul Mattimoe commented: "The first edition will be released online sometime between 1st & 8th July, but the exact date is a secret!"

Why we asked, "Well, because in one of the features in the publication there are 25 free timeshares offered to the first 25 callers - and we don't mean a promotional week of accommodation, we mean 25 actual timeshare memberships - all registered subscribers will be emailed at the same time on one of the days, they then have to find the article and call the number as fast as they can."

He continued, "But that's just a bit of fun, you can also expect reviews of new affiliated timeshare resorts, high end fractional properties, owner related news, and features on the rental and resale markets, burning questions from readers about the industry and products, more offers and competitions and much more."

The first five editions of Owners Perspective Magazine will be available online only as the magazine is shaped by feedback from readers, before also being launched in print in January 2009.

For more information visit http://www.ownersperspective.com or email readers@ownersperspective.com

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080717160/Latest/Timeshare-Industry-Magazine-Ready-to-Launch.html

About Perspective International Ltd
A PR & Media company for the timeshare, fractional and shared ownership industry, specializing in brand and business development, promotion of products and services and recruiting via its B2B publications and services; and now provides branding and marketing opportunities to consumers through two new B2C products.


Linkback - Owners perspective magazine
]]> 7/19/2008 6:27:30 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4673 4673
Ryanair will ground aircraft and cut flights this winter in a move that will lose it up to 1.5 million passengers, most of them at Stansted.

The low-cost carrier will ground eight aircraft at Stansted out of a fleet of 36 and operate 250 flights per week fewer from the airport, costing it 900,000 passengers. The aircraft will be grounded from November to March.

Ryanair blamed an increase in charges at Stansted, which now total £10 per passenger, but conceded the high price of oil was also a factor.

The airline also blamed high airport costs for its decision to ground four aircraft at Dublin for the winter season, cutting 150 flights and 500,000 passengers.

The carrier gave the same reason for closing seven of its bases in continental Europe for six weeks. The bases at Palma in Majorca, Valencia in Spain, Basel in Switzerland, Budapest (Hungary), Krakow and Rzeszow (Poland) and Salzburg (Austria) will close from November 4 to December 19.

Ryanair said it had sought and failed to win reductions in charges at all the airports at which it is cutting services.
Chief executive Michael O’Leary hit out at Stansted and its owner BAA in particular, saying: “We hope the Competition Commission will call for the break up of BAA.”

The UK Competition Commission is due to report next month on whether BAA’s ownership of Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted distorts the market.

A spokesman for Stansted said: “Many airlines reduce services in the winter. The aviation industry is coping with the challenges of a global economic downturn. Surely this is a time for the industry to pull together.”

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/07/18/28229/ryanair-cuts-flights-for-more-than-one-million-passengers.html


Linkback - Ryanair ground aircraft
]]> 7/19/2008 6:18:06 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4672 4672
Linkback - Blue Sky Holidays
]]> 7/17/2008 8:07:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4671 4671 Have read that some timeshare owners (resort in Portugal I believe)are being informed that their resort is being refurbished / rebuilt and that they will have to pay an amount for every week owned. I understand the amount being asked is between £2500 & £3000 per week. Is this practice normal and if unable to pay what are the consequences?

Linkback - Refurb. costs
]]> 7/16/2008 9:49:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4670 4670 Arroyo de la Miel
Malaga
Spain 29631

This is their address. I have emailed them and requested reimbursement of the £800 I was conned out of!

Linkback - Greystone Leisure
]]> 7/16/2008 9:25:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4669 4669 Their story then, they bought products from a total of three companies having shelled out a total of some £18k. A legal consultancy calls them up and says that they are taking the 3 companies on in a Spanish Court to recoup their money along with other victims.

Now, they say they operate on a no win- no fee basis, however they require £1900 to translate and notarise the documents through the Spanish Gestorias. Could anyone on this forum tell me if this is the norm (price and procedure)? They really are at a loss as what to do.

Also, would anyone know where I might find a list of registered legal consultants as I can't find these people on the internet at all?
Am I able to mention the name of the legal consultants on here?

Sorry for such a long, drawn out first post but we're a little stuck here. Thanks.

Linkback - Legal Consultants require payment
]]> 7/16/2008 7:21:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4668 4668
Yet we was not to know this at the time when we flew out to spain, and the cabin crew said that there was nothing they can do. Ben aged 4yrs old and jade aged 6yrs old was left sat out of sight from one of us three adults which are family and on the same reservation.

Unfortunately other passengers who are also not paying priority boarding at 5euros per person, find themselves in the exact same situation.

The CAA also have things to say about this issue too.

So if you are considering flying with Ryanair, check the extra charges for baggage check-in fees, priority boarding fees, etc to total the price of the flights to see if you are saving much money and weather it is worth it in the end.

There is two lines at the boarding gate, priority (max 60 people apparently) and then normal boarding. Two things.... first, the gate number is NOT SHOWN until about 25mins prior boarding, this means that everyone will rush, shove and push to be in line first. If you do not pay priority boarding and have children you want to sit next to, or a partner, you will have to keep your eyes on the departure screen every second and then dash for the gate, to be sure you get even a chance to sit together. Worst in cases of groups of 4+.

Ryanair did not have anything to say to our three detailed complaint letters with evidence, they didnt even address each problem and all they said was appology. Not even apology detailing what they are apologising about.

When i get a minute, i will be putting a web link to our letters of complaint, pics,and also Ryanair's reply letters.

Just hope this helps you when choosing an airline. We flew two weeks later with another airline, and as most airlines allocate your seats at checkin , we didnt have to rush, push or pay extra for a priority service. it felt well worth the extra bit of cash. Seems like Ryainair is great for people without children under 14yrs old!!!!

If you have any problems with your holiday, feel free to voice them on this forum. We are now contacting the CAA as ryanair are not bothered.



Linkback - Ryanair With Children
]]> 7/16/2008 1:25:51 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4667 4667
Im an old friend and employee of Ian's

Noel Healy

Linkback - Ian Podesta
]]> 7/16/2008 1:53:28 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4666 4666
Linkback - Class Properties
]]> 7/15/2008 4:21:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4665 4665
The guy that I spoke to, a posh-sounding David Ashton, asked all of the right questions and went into a great deal of detail, including the apartment number, usage for 2008 etc and conducted negotiations between me and the buyer over a couple of days, with the result that, this morning, we accepted an offer of £2900 per week. Our credit card details were to be given in case we did not send the contract back, resulting in a charge of 995 euros.

I them checked out GSL International and couldn't find them anywhere so, smelling a rat, I checked out the phone number he'd given me - strangely enough the same as Greystone's Spanish number.

He called me back and I asked him what GSL's connection was to Greystone. He told me that he hadn't heard of Greystone and asked me to refer to GSL's website. He must never have looked at it himself as the homepage refers to Greystone in BIG writing.

It's disappointing that we haven't sold our timeshare but at least we haven't lost 995 euros too!

Be VERY wary of anyone claiming to have a buyer for your timeshare - the credit crunch has killed an already dying market - for now anyway.

All the best, Steve

Linkback - GSL International aka Greystone
]]> 7/15/2008 2:20:55 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4664 4664

Linkback - Timeshare owners ordered to pay up
]]> 7/15/2008 12:25:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4663 4663 I know I should have asked all these questions before but like I say we got up in the idea.
Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated

Thanks
Steve[?]

Linkback - Help!!
]]> 7/15/2008 9:35:54 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4662 4662 Guess who it is:



More of the picture to be revealed daily, the more that is revealed the less the reward.

Today it is worth 5 points!



Linkback - Guess who it is - 14 July
]]> 7/14/2008 10:29:17 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4661 4661 Am I using the wrong forum/page??

Linkback - World Networking Sales Ltd
]]> 7/14/2008 8:37:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4660 4660
Linkback - trial members action group
]]> 7/14/2008 6:17:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4659 4659 We've not yet taken our Preview week sodon't have access to lots of information, except from this really useful forum.

We want to find out how useful is the Leisure Time Passport. In particular, we would like to know how useful are the OTHER features in addition to the Getaway resorts. This is because we will be in the USA for about three months during our first year of a 3 year Trial membership, so we will have the LTP but no access to the Getaway resorts (these are only available in 2nd and 3rd years).

Will the LTP prvide any advantages we could not find by surfing t'interweb??

Regards

Linkback - Interval International and Leisure Time Passport
]]> 7/14/2008 4:53:39 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4658 4658 Information about legal rights needed
My husband and I bought a week in Monte from Anfi Sales July 2. They asked me for a deposit, which would not be taken from my account before the 10 days cooling off period was over. However, when we got home I checked my account, and the money was long gone, taken the day after the sale (July 3.)
In the contract, appendix G,nr 11, it says that it is illegal to recive any kind of pre-payment in the cancellation period, and if it`s taken, the buyer can demand double amount back. Ì called the verification office at Anfi, and they said this is normal procedure, and I will get my money back within a few weeks. They said that is legal to do this, because the money is held by a third party, and will not be transferred to Anfi. I`ve found some information on the web, but I`m still not sure what is correct.
The Timeshare Consumers Association defines a conventional timeshare like this: an apartment number or size (usually referred to a "T?" - "T0" being a studio, "T2" being a 2 bedroom)
a week number or colour
and the use is for three years or more. My agreement with Anfi looks like that. TCU says: In Spain, if the seller does take a deposit within the cooling off period, the buyer can demand twice that sum back and the cooling off period is extended to three months.

But TCA also says it is different rules if you join a vacation club (i.e Anfi Vacation Club) As I understand, when buying into Anfi, one doesn`t have to join the vacation club, and Anfi del Mar should be considered a conventional timeshare resort.
Allthough I`m not worried about getting my deposit back, I would like to take this case further, I don`t like being fooled, and if I could get double money back, I would use the extra 2700,00 £ to buy a resale week instead. I love the tought of letting Anfi sponsor my vacation:)
If anyone could provide me with some laws to support my claim, I would be very grateful. I saw another in the forum asking the same question, but I think that was about Beach club, and maybe there is a difference, since Beach club offers fixed week in fixed apartments, while Monte is floating.
Thank you, Beats


Linkback - Deposit to third party laws?
]]> 7/14/2008 2:08:24 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4657 4657
Hi folks,

We've just agreed to pay £3,295 for a three year (well actually 35 months, to avoid the law) Trial European Collection Membership.

We've since (yes, I know, should have searched first but ...) trawled t'internet and found lots of grumbles but also lots of satisfied customers.

We were signed up by LCI Travel in wakefield, and I gather that LCI have got a bad prior reputation.

However, all comments I've seen so far are about older full membership schemes. The scheme we've signed up to seems to be new. There is no mention of Points or Management Fees. So, I'm guessing that all the discussion about Points and Management Fees relate to full membership. Is that correct?

Is there anyone else out there signed up to the Trial scheme? Any experiences of it?

According to the sales pitch and bumph, we get a Preview holiday:- one week's self-catering accommodation for upto six people; two free flights and free car hire (only lowest class of car). Once we finish this holiday we then start our three year trial period, during which we are entitled to nine week's of holidays (i.e.accommodation). We can have up to five weeks from the Club The Former Company resorts. We will pay a booking fee of £50 for each couple-week - so if four of us stay in an apartment for a week we pay £100. After the first year we can also book any of the Interval International resorts, but for a booking fee of £169 (low season) to £199 (HS) per apartment. We also (once the Preview week is completed) get membership of Interval International's Leisure Time passport.

So, how does this deal sound to you?

This is a fairly urgent request because, even though we have signed an agreement to pay (starting in November) it may be possible to get that agreement rescinded if we believe we have been misled. The only point on which we feel we may have been misled came after we said we would be in USA for a number of months early next year, after which we were told we would be able to rent a Winnebago (unclear on whether this would be a discount through Leisure Time or count as one or more of the nine weeks). We took him to mean that renting a Winnebago for a week would count as one of the nine weeks through Interval International - i.e. only cost us the £169/£199. Looking through the bumph on getting home we found the bit about only getting access to
II Getaways in teh 2nd & 3rd years.
All responses welcome!!

Linkback - Trial European Collection Membership
]]> 7/13/2008 11:08:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4656 4656 Thank you

Linkback - Market price Gran Anfi?
]]> 7/13/2008 2:32:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4655 4655
We have just received our bill for extra maintenance charges and I want to register our disgust at these extra charges. First of all we feel that the charges have been getting out of hand for some time now and that as a company you have absolutely no sympathy or flexibility in peoples ability to pay these in this hard economic climate. We scrimp to get these paid as it is and to expect an extra payment at this time of the year really is disappointing. I do not feel that you have looked at your operations hard enough to find ways of cutting costs. I can recommend one way in which you could significantly reduce your running costs and probably increase you income at the same time. There is no need to have entertainment on in every restaurant an bar every night. We have actually stopped eating in any of your restaurants because of this and I am sure there must be others like us. Sometimes we just want to eat in some peace and quiet.
Please when will you realise that your members are not just 'cash cows' as frankly that is how we are feeling at this moment!.
We will not be paying this charge and will contact other members to ensure this happens as if we pay with no fight we will be setting a precedent that you as a company can send a bill out any time due to the lack of foresight of your accountants and business managers to manage the finances of the company, this can be seen as a lack of confidence from us members. This current financial climate has not just happened overnight so it does show a lack of understanding of your experts in forecasting. Our members fees have been paid in good faith this year and this had been set by your professionals so it is therefore your responsibility to make sure they are correct in the first place, your error is not our fault so why should we be punished for it
Secondly when the pound was strong against the euro why did we not benefit then, yet when it is weaker we are punished and when the pound does gain strength will we get a refund of the extra you wish us to pay. As members we demand a copy of the business case that you used to come to the conclusion that as you had not correctly forecasted you financial plan for the year that your members have to pay more to make up for your mistakes. I look forward to seeing this, as members or owners we should be privy to this information and not just take what you say as read. We really have lost a majority of our faith in the company and always defend CLC when people call you crimeshare or crooks but we are beginning to lose that fight when things like this come along and we find our confidence in the company being destroyed by this lack of competence

We do not want a standard reply to this email, we demand a full explanation and not for you to hide behind the current financial market as lots of companies are struggling but have had the professionalism to have put plans in place prior to this happening. We also want a full copy of the business case that you used to reach this decision and a full report that explains how you as a company will ensure this never happens again as we do not believe you do not have the financial foresight to not have seen this coming and therefore did not have a slush fund to support the company.

We eagerly await your quick response in this matter
Gordon and Sandra O'Hara

Linkback - extra management fees request
]]> 7/13/2008 12:59:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4654 4654
No doubt had the positions been reversed CLC members would not receive a refund so are they legally empowered to demand these additional fees from us?

I have e-mailed CLC and asked for a full explaination of why they`ve increased the fees and whether it is legally correct and they haven`t yet got back to me. To be honest this is the final straw, I feel like selling my points and wouldn`t hesitate if there was actually anyone out there that would want to buy them.

Linkback - Additional management fee demand
]]> 7/12/2008 1:20:55 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4653 4653 Many of the earliest timeshare resorts established in the U.S. were in Hawaii, so it is appropriate that today, nearly 40 years later, Hawaii still dominates the top spots on the Sell My Timeshare Now timeshare resale and timeshare rental Hot 100 list. In the top ten spots on the list, Hawaii timeshares claimed four: Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas in second place on the list; Diamond Resorts Ka'anapali Beach Club in fifth place; Marriott's Maui Ocean Club timeshares in sixth; and the Ko Olina Beach Club timeshares, new to the top ten list this year, claiming the tenth spot.

This year's Hot 100 list is based on a record number of offers to buy timeshare or rent timeshare, placed through the Sell My Timeshare Now website, with a total of 48,532 offers placed on the Top 100 properties in 2007. Overall, the list reveals consistency among the leaders at the top, with this year's top eight all appearing in last year's list. Notably, WorldMark by Wyndham, multi-destination timeshares have jumped from seventh, to claim the top spot at number one. Among WorldMark by Wyndham's more than 60 worldwide resorts are four in Hawaii: Kapaa Shore; Valley Isle in Lahaina; Kihei; and Kona in Kailua-Kona.

Hawaii timeshare's dominance of the list does not end in the top ten. Other Hawaii timeshares placing high on the list include: Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas North timeshares, ranked 21; the Sands of Kahana Vacation Club timeshares, ranked 24; Hilton Grand Vacations Club at Hilton Hawaii Village, ranked 29; and Marriott's OceanWatch Villas timeshares, ranked number 33.

Jason Tremblay, CEO of Sell My Timeshare NOW says, "With more than 5,400 timeshare resorts worldwide to choose from, it says a lot about how much vacationers love Hawaii, that over 27 percent of the timeshare resales and timeshare rentals on the top third of our list are located in Hawaii."

The top ten in-demand timeshare resales and timeshare rentals from the Sell My Timeshare Now Hot 100 list are:

1. WorldMark by Wyndham, (Multi-Destination)

2. Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas, Maui, Hawaii U.S.A.

3. Orange Lake's West Village, Orlando, Florida U.S.A.

4. Marriott's Aruba Surf Club, Palm Beach, Aruba

5. Diamond Resorts Ka'anapali Beach Club, Maui, Hawaii U.S.A.

6. Marriott's Maui Ocean Club, Maui, Hawaii U.S.A.

7. Marriott's Newport Coast Villas, Newport Coast, California U.S.A.

8. Harborside Resort at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

9. Manhattan Club, New York, New York U.S.A.

10. Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club, Oahu, Hawaii U.S.A.

Sell My Timeshare Now's Director of Sales, Rosanne Luba, explains, "Many people want to know which timeshare resales and timeshare rentals other timeshare owners are buying. They ask us because they are interested in exchange or in resale value. This list makes it easy to see what consumers are asking for when it comes to name as well as location. "

Timeshares sales climbed 6 percent over 2006, with sales totaling $10.6 billion in 2007, according to a new study of the U.S. vacation timeshare industry conducted by Ernst & Young, LLP. The survey encompasses 628 timeshare resorts throughout the country, showing sales up 66 percent since 2003 and an average resort size growth of 32 percent.

As of January 1, 2007, there were 1,641 timeshare resorts in the United States. The total number of weekly equivalent intervals owned was approximately 6.5 million and new owners increased to 4.7 million owners.

“The continued growth of the timeshare industry in today’s economy is a direct indication of strong consumer satisfaction and demand. Vacation ownership, with its flexibility and spacious accommodations, continues to be a preferred travel choice for American families,” said Howard Nusbaum, ARDA president and CEO.


The number of timeshare units in the United States, as of January 1, 2008, was 180,158, with 8,000 newly constructed units built in 2007. Respondents expect continued growth with around 8,000 new units built in 2008.

Average occupancy was over 80 percent in 2007, including nearly 70 percent who were either owners or exchange guests and more than 10 percent who were renters and/or marketing guests.

Florida, California and South Carolina have the most resorts representing 39 percent of all U.S. timeshare resorts. Florida continues to lead the nation with the most resorts (23 percent), the largest resorts and the greatest sales volume. California houses 9 percent of timeshare resorts in the U.S. followed by South Carolina at 7 percent. The remaining states, grouped in regions, reported the following representation of U.S. resorts: Mountain (18 percent); Northeast (11 percent); Pacific (9 percent); South Central (9 percent); and the Midwest and South Atlantic (both 8 percent).

Beach resorts are the most common primary designation of resorts (24 percent), and country/lake resorts second (16 percent). Golf (8 percent) is the most often available amenity nearby and/or onsite and other vacation experiences noted include National/State parks, spa resorts, and historic sites.

Two-bedroom units continue to represent the most common size (61 percent), followed by one-bedroom (24 percent), three bedroom or larger (9 percent), and studio units (7 percent). The average price of a timeshare interval sold was $19,216.

Ninety-nine percent of respondents are affiliated with Interval International and/or Group RCI exchange networks. Thirteen percent of respondent have a self-administered program, generally in addition to an affiliation with one of the two major exchange companies.

Resorts have added sophistication to the way owners can buy timeshare intervals. Many offer increased flexibility for owners to customize their vacation needs by offering “points” instead of just selling one week per year. Points owners can break up or extend vacation weeks, travel during various times of the year and/or stay in various unit sizes at a range of locations. About two-thirds of respondents offer intervals of the traditional weekly variety, and 56 percent offer some form of points-based product.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080709154/Latest/Hawaii-Timeshares-in-Demand-on-Hot-100-Timeshare-List.html


Linkback - Hawaii Timeshares in Demand on Hot 100 Timeshare
]]> 7/12/2008 9:10:07 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4652 4652
New figures collated from its website reveals that the favourable exchange rate means visitor numbers are up 20% year on year for the months of July, August and September.

Lastminute said it is seeing a significant double figure increase in German tourists visiting the UK since 2007. In particular, Edinburgh is proving a firm favourite with the German tourists.

French visitors to the UK have increased by nearly 10% with the airports of Cardiff, Southampton, Birmingham and Manchester all showing double digit increases in French passengers.

UK domestic holiday bookings on lastminute.com are also up by 14% year on year.

Lastminute.com UK managing director John Bevan said: “The UK’s popularity this summer is amazing. The UK appears to be the place to be for all of Europe’s nationalities.

“Traditionally an expensive destination for European tourists, the UK’s in-resort price competitiveness has improved dramatically due to the fall of the Pound against the Euro.

“This has played a major part in the UK’s increased popularity amongst European tourists.”

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/07/11/28168/more-europeans-head-to-uk-on-holiday.html


Linkback - More Europeans head to UK on holiday
]]> 7/12/2008 9:06:33 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4651 4651
Members of the European Parliament approved the move yesterday following the agreement of EU member governments. All taxes, fees and charges will have to be included in fares from the end of the year.

The move will pull the rest of Europe into line with the UK, where the Office of Fair Trading has overseen a similar regulation since May last year. Travel agents’ and tour operators’ association ABTA has enforced the rule on the travel trade.

However, the OFT has allowed some airlines considerable leeway. Ryanair did not comply with the instruction to include all non-optional charges in fares until February this year.

At the same time, airlines have introduced a range of “optional” charges for items that were previously included in fares - such as charges for baggage and airport check-in - meaning passengers still find it difficult to judge the final cost of a fare from the advertised price.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/07/10/28157/ec-to-ban-bargain-air-fares-online.html


Linkback - EC to ban bargain air fares online
]]> 7/12/2008 9:05:03 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4650 4650
We are looking at increasing our points by a further 7-9,000.

If you are interested in selling please get in touch detailing how many points you have, what (if any) you have banked, whether the maintenance and special levy has been paid and finally what you want for your points.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Regards

Mark

Linkback - ***** Points wanted ********
]]> 7/11/2008 5:59:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4649 4649
It's quite good actually, especially as subscribing is free - there is info on some new RCI resorts soon to be ready, some fractional ownership reviews and Seasons Holidays are even giving away free timeshare memberships - not just a week of accommodation, but actual memberships worth over £3,000.

See for yourself at [url]http://www.ownersperspective.com[/url]

Linkback - New Timeshare Magazine Launched Today
]]> 7/10/2008 10:11:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4648 4648
Cheers!

Linkback - Questions anyone?
]]> 7/10/2008 4:29:44 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4647 4647
Linkback - PLANET VACATIONS SCAM
]]> 7/10/2008 3:55:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4646 4646
Are you still interested in my points as I have sent you several emails but have not received any replies?

Regards,

Kevin Poultney

Linkback - tom e luk (4000 points)
]]> 7/10/2008 7:16:41 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4645 4645
Are there any other members of the RCB on this forum? Would love to hear from you. We are going out again on August 19.[8D]

Cheers
Salgor

Linkback - Panaretti's Royal Coral Bay, Cyprus
]]> 7/9/2008 5:29:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4644 4644 I have been approached by Leisure Dimensions Ltd who work in conjuction with Petchey Leisure to take up Membership of Atlas Holiday Club, in doing so they take over two weeks @ Club Prarie d'Oura and all I need to do is Read some e-mailed documents, initial & sign some aagreements & conditions, part with 300£ per month for 12 months whilst still paying the annual maintenance fee.. I'm thinking this doesnt seem a good deal as there is no guarantee to eventually off load this property permantly and be timeshare free.. what do you think?


Linkback - Holiday Club or Not to Holiday Club Tht Is The Q?
]]> 7/8/2008 10:54:14 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4643 4643

I have a week 41 in Cristina 105 (2 Bedroom sleep 6) which I am looking to sell. Week 41 is commonly the Scottish Autumn half term week.

Dona Lola is a Gold Crown resort on the Costa Del Sol, Spain. With views toward Gibraltar and North Africa, the resort slopes down through subtropical gardens to the sea. The outdoor swimming pool is 270 feet long and curves around the bar and restaurant, forming the centerpiece for evening barbecues and flamenco nights.

The resort's facilities include grass tennis courts, a heated pool, a gymnasium, snooker and pool tables, a sauna, a whirlpool, a beauty salon, a Turkish bath, and Internet access. Dona Lola is just a short walk from Calahonda, where there are shops, tapas bars, restaurants, and nightlife.

Week is banked for 2008 with DAE, happy to transfer if you want to pay the maintenance fee which has just come in £404.73.

I am looking for £1995 including full transfer (done via Travel & Leisure Group as I have used them before). Bought for over £6,000 !

More information on the resort from http://www.donalola.com or http://www.donalola.net

Please contact me on m.potter@tiscali.co.uk






Linkback - Dona Lola, Week 41, 2 Bedroom
]]> 7/8/2008 8:59:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4642 4642


5 points for a correct answer.

Answer to be revealed (late on) 13th July, unless correctly guessed beforehand.



Linkback - Guess where it is - 07 July
]]> 7/7/2008 10:19:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4641 4641
Linkback - anfi beach club
]]> 7/6/2008 8:06:07 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4640 4640
Linkback - RCI Annual Fee
]]> 7/6/2008 4:06:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4639 4639
Any advice from members on UK travel insurance providers timeshare owners should look at? I did read the Insurance forum, but it seems very out of date.

Thanks!

Linkback - Advice on Travel Insurance that covers maintenance
]]> 7/5/2008 9:00:40 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4638 4638 We're going to Residence Normande in October and could do with some feedback on the resort. I understand that we can use all the facilities at Le Manoir les Deux Amants - how easy is this to do in practice?
Look forward to reading your comments.
Alyson

Linkback - RESIDENCE NORMANDE
]]> 7/4/2008 1:13:14 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4637 4637 Embracing change was the theme of the conference and this was certainly evidenced by a new logo, a new mission statement and a new resort accreditation process (RAP) for member resorts has meant that TATOC has now announced its presence as the Timeshare Association (Timeshare Owners and Committees.)

The conference was held this year in the north of England at the Park Hotel, Stretton Nr Warrington and was very well attended by both members and industry suppliers. Dial an Exchange, ICE, Worldwide Timeshare Hypermarket, RCI and II and Diamond Resorts International ® were just a few of the companies who gave of their time not only in sponsoring the conference but also their expertise and experience through networking and well attended workshops.

Marty Kandel the President of European Operations for Diamond Resorts International ® in his speech stated that “I am pleased to have been invited to address the TATOC conference which has provided DRI with a unique opportunity to underscore our presence in Europe and substantiate our commitment to exceeding best practices in the vacation ownership industry.”

With its vibrant logo and new website TATOC is opening its doors to welcome different types of membership. Not only are resort committees welcomed but now individuals can also become members even if their own resort is not a member. There will also be a new category for industry professionals and companies. Formerly, the Association primarily targeted “sold out” clubs, but now resorts who are still in the selling phase can become members.

“The increase in membership is pivotal for the future growth of the Association and for TATOC to carry out its mission statement “to safeguard and enhance the timeshare holiday experience for existing and prospective users and to be the voice of owners.” said its Chief Executive, Harry Taylor.

“We have also extended the Board of the Association bringing in experience and expertise which we need to for the Timeshare Association to achieve the full potential in the 21st century”

In the Chairman’s Statement David Eastburn was clear in his vision for the future

“Since I became Chairman I have felt the driving need to make TATOC more proactive and in particular, to remedy the public perception of timeshare as generated by a hostile and nearly always uninformed press.”

In order to address the issue of the media and also raise the profile of TATOC Jennie Thompson as director on the board of TATOC has been given the specific responsibility to deal with the media.

“Having worked within the timeshare industry for many years in a variety of professional fields I am still passionate about the industry” says Jennie. “I believe the role that TATOC has is so important, as it represents the backbone of the industry, the consumer. It is our intention to build up constructive relationships with not just fellow industry bodies but also various media representatives in order that we can all strive get the positive message across about timeshare.”

The reaction to the 2008 AGM and conference has been swift and complimentary.

“ This is where I feel TATOC comes in, bringing together all sides of the industry, large or small, person or persons, all looking to the future for a common goal on unity, fairness and transparency…”
John Woodward, Cromer Country Club

“…..both Gary and I felt that it was the best conference so far, very professional. TATOC seems to be going from strength to strength…..”
Phil Watson, Worldwide Timeshare Hypermarket.

“I would like to congratulate you with an excellent TATOC conference and I was very pleased to see the positive response to the new TATOC. I am looking very much forward to continuing our excellent cooperation."
Peter Vandermark

“Best ever conference. The future looks good for consumers”.
Dennis Corbett, Sunset Bay Tenerife

“Our workshops seemed to be very well received by the people that attended. I would like to find out how we can work with TATOC going forward…………..”
Louise Knott ICE Gallery

With these positive messages and support it bodes well for the future of both the Association and the industry.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080702149/Latest/Timeshare-Associaion-TATOC-Conference-2008.html


Linkback - Timeshare Associaion: TATOC Conference 2008
]]> 7/3/2008 8:55:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4636 4636
A French judge has ordered Continental Airlines and five individuals to stand trial on charges arising from the crash of an Air France Concorde that killed 113 people in 2000.

The defendants include two employees of the U.S. carrier, two employees of Aerospatiale, the company that made the supersonic Concorde, and a French aviation official. All are charged with manslaughter.

The Concorde crashed in flames shortly after takeoff from Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport on July 25, 2000, killing all 109 people on board and four on the ground.

French investigators said a strip of metal that fell off a Continental jet shredded one of the Concorde's tires as it sped down the runway toward takeoff. Debris punctured the swept-wing plane's fuel tanks, triggering a fatal fire within seconds.

Continental has pledged to fight any charges in the case, which is expected to go to trial next year. The employees named in the case are the airline's chief of maintenance and a mechanic. Also charged are two men who held senior positions in the Concorde design program for the British-French consortium Aerospatiale, which is now part of EADS aerospace group, and the former director of technical services at the French civil aviation authority (DGAC).

The crash in 2000 was a factor in the subsequent decision to remove all Concorde jets from service three years later. The first commercial passenger plane to fly faster than the speed of sound, the Concorde was flown by Air France and British Airways from 1976-2003.

http://voanews.com/english/2008-07-03-voa14.cfm


Linkback - Judge Orders US Airline to Stand Trial for Crash
]]> 7/3/2008 8:54:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4635 4635
The two operators together account for nearly half of the package holidays sold throughout Europe and around two-thirds of holidays sold in Britain, giving them a market dominance which is enabling them to drive through the price rises and capacity cuts necessary to maintain profit margins.

Yet their shares have been dogged by fears they are facing the sort of cyclical downturn which devastated some of their predecessors, as well as rising fuel costs and a strong euro which is making holidays in continental Europe more expensive.

Both companies' shares have fallen by over 30 percent since the enlarged groups re-listed on the London Stock Exchange last year.

That left TUI Travel trading at around 9.1 times forecast earnings for 2008, with Thomas Cook at 9.2 times, compared with a price-earnings ratio for the FTSE All Share Travel & Leisure Index of 7.9, according to Reuters data.

However, last year's deals, in which TUI Travel was created from the tie-up of TUI AG's travel division and First Choice, while Thomas Cook was formed in June following the merger of Arcandor's travel unit and MyTravel, have transformed the dynamics of the marketplace.

"The tour operating industry has gone through a radical shift whereby two major players have practically doubled their scale to dominate the pan-European landscape," said Citigroup analyst Heidy Rehman.

The trend has enabled both companies to tightly control capacity, knocking out product lines which were either unprofitable or less profitable than others.

Thomas Cook cut capacity by 9 percent for summer 2008 while TUI Travel took out 12 percent of its offering for the season. As a result, both were left with about 20 percent less holidays left to sell at the start of the summer.

With fewer holidays left to sell, the two major operators have been able to avoid the deep discounting traditionally offered on late bookings.

Average selling prices for TUI Travel's holidays have been 6 percent higher this year, while for Thomas Cook, the increase has been 5 percent.

PRICE RISES
Both companies will need to further raise prices and cut capacity ahead of summer 2009 to reduce the instances of unsold holidays, improve load factors, and support price rises for the remaining holidays being sold.

Dresdner Kleinwort analyst Tim Ramskill expects TUI Travel to cut capacity by a further 12 percent in 2009, with Thomas Cook taking out a further 5 percent.

He also reckons both groups are targeting price rises of 9 to 10 percent based on an analysis of 2009 brochures and estimates 8 percent price increases will be needed to maintain margins.

The test for TUI Travel and Thomas Cook will be whether consumers are prepared to accept such rises as household budgets are stretched.

"So far, the new business models have demonstrated their robustness. The real test is likely to be in the next financial year when weakening consumer demand will test business model flexibility," said Credit Suisse analyst Peter Hyde.

Senior executives at both groups have repeatedly emphasised the resilience of the package holiday industry.

They have argued that consumers are reluctant to sacrifice their annual holidays even when household budgets are tight and would rather cut back spending on other discretionary purchases such as eating out or taking weekend breaks.

However, during the economic downturn of the early 1990s, the number of British holidaymakers travelling abroad fell by around 2.5 percent, according to government statistics.

Many tour operators fell victim to the slowdown -- the biggest of which was International Leisure Group, which went bust having been Britain's second-biggest operator.

As well as cutting capacity, TUI Travel and Thomas Cook have the flexibility to adapt their product offering to sell fewer holidays to expensive euro-denominated countries such as Spain and Portugal and more in non-Euro countries such as Egypt and Turkey, which are rapidly growing in popularity.

The challenging nature of the market is also likely to throw up more opportunities for the "big two" to extend their domination of the market through acquisitions as smaller independent operators are squeezed out of the industry

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7627608


Linkback - TUI Travel, Thomas Cook can weather downturn
]]> 7/3/2008 8:51:33 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4634 4634
What are other people's experiences of the Internal Exchange system? Does it work for them, and are we just playing it wrong? Thanks.

Linkback - Internal Exchange
]]> 7/2/2008 11:59:26 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4633 4633
Those of you who have previously been a prey of these tarnished rackets and scams can be aware of the pain that they have experienced and gone through. That dream holiday that you may have been planning since a long time ended up being a nightmare for you. But if you think you are the first person to have been scammed, hold on there are many other people who have been the victim of this devious behavior.

To experience many famous vacation spots, timeshares is the safest ways. How about a private expedition to the geological wonders of the world? How about that romantic escape in a beach resort? Sounds thrilling, but these are one of the marketing strategy exercised by the scammers to tempt people into thinking about buying a timeshare.

In reality this is their initial victory in setting a surprise attack for you. This does not mean that every timeshare company who uses this scheme would be a scammer. The real meaning of that is to be alert and not get hasty about it in the first go. Always think and rethink before making a judgment on buying a timeshare.

Selecting the right timeshare company is one of the important measures. As a guideline, always go with large, well recognized timeshare companies who have been in the business for ages. In this approach you’ll be familiar with their history very well and their status in the market. They are less prone to con a person than a new or a small company. This is relevant when it comes to the resale of your timeshare property.

Most of the times you can stay away from these scammers, in marketing techniques by the catchy style which easily raises red flags. It usually starts by an invitation to a timeshare presentation. They proffer you a present if you attend the presentation which may look posh, but in fact is not. Sometimes they may also notify you that you have won a gift and you can claim it by attending the free seminar.

And then if once you have attended the presentation you are a victim to their gimmick, they begin using pressure advertising methods and they won’t allow you go out except they have you sign something just like dealers selling second-hand cars, who say “we will sell you this car with this much discount, if you purchase it today”. They may say the property is only 5 minutes stroll from the coastline but in reality it possibly will turn out to be 15-20 minutes away from the beach.

At times the property might not be alike as they portrayed in their presentation taking benefit of the fact that no one would go to Florida or Carolina to observe the property themselves prior to buying it. And in several exceptional cases the property might not even exist at all. What we discover from this is to read the fine printed lines in the invitation if you receive one. By no means ever surrender to their pressure strategy and say no to sign any kind of document.

Firstly you notice that all guarantees and promises verbally made are fulfilled and a much healthier. It will be good if it is to check by a lawyer before signing any bond or documents. Do your groundwork before buying a timeshare by researching the market values in the location you are purchasing. And also inquire for contact numbers of the earlier clients. Make certain you call them and find out all you wish to know in relation to the company and their properties.

http://www.timeshare-investment.com/tips-for-timeshare/52-Tips-To-Evade-Deceptions-In-Timeshare.html


Linkback - Tips To Evade Deceptions In Timeshare
]]> 7/2/2008 6:24:27 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4632 4632
The new charge is £4 per person per night for the first two passengers in a cabin, up to a maximum of £80 per cruise, and £2 per person per night for third and fourth passengers in the cabin, up to a maximum of £40 per person per cruise. It applies to all new bookings made from July 1 and is up from £3.50 per passenger.

This applies to all cruises featured in the cruiseline's Worldwide 2009/2010 first-edition brochure, with the exception of cruises that also feature in the 2008/2009 third-edition brochure, which have maintained a £5 per person per night supplement, announced last month.

Cruises in the 2008/2009 third-edition brochure, for bookings up until April 16 next year, maintain a higher £5 charge compared to £4 for 2009/2010 cruises as a result of calculating the cost of fuel in a different way, said a spokeswoman.

At the launch of the new 2009/2010 brochure marketing director Nigel Lingard said the whole industry was challenged by "fuel prices that are exponentially growing". Fuel costs have continued to increase - the cost of oil currently stands at US $142 a barrel.

This is the fourth change announced on fuel by the cruiseline. It introduced a £2.50 supplement in December last year across all cruises. This was then increased to £3.50 on May 1, and for 2008/2008 third-edition brochure cruises it was increased to £5 on June 10.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/06/30/28046/fred-olsen-cruise-lines-announces-further-fuel-supplement.html

Linkback - Cruise Lines announces further supplement hike
]]> 7/2/2008 6:19:26 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4631 4631
The survey commissioned by Foreign Currency Direct studied the intentions of Britons investing in property abroad and found those with holiday homes overseas are taking more business away from the traditional package holiday.

It revealed that overseas homeowners visit their property on average five times per year, 1% of people visit between one and 10 times per year, 8% visit once per month and 20% allow friends and family to use their property free of charge. A further 17% rent out their property for a fee.

The report suggests that the growing number of holiday homes owned by Brits abroad is stealing the march from package holidays, already hit in recent years by low cost air travel and internet bookings. The report suggesting that holidaymakers are looking for a 'home from home' holiday for their annual break.

Foreign Currency Direct chief executive Peter S Ellis, said: "We're increasingly money-rich, time-poor, so there has been significant growth in demand for short breaks rather than 7/14 holidays - which is perfectly suited for those with or using holiday homes - as opposed to package holidays."

Research was undertaken online by YouGov amongst a representative sample of 2,000 people in April 2008.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/07/01/28049/package-market-in-downturn-because-of-holiday-homes.html


Linkback - Package holidays down because of holiday homes
]]> 7/2/2008 6:15:28 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4630 4630
Linkback - CLC Diamond Membership for Sale
]]> 7/1/2008 10:15:49 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4629 4629
Just thought people might want to take note of the name.

Linkback - The Gift Company
]]> 7/1/2008 8:57:31 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4628 4628
1 week for rent at Wychnor Park Country Club 2 bed unit check in 25/05/09 - 01/06/09 - £150 ono points cost 7850. Please note resort charges for electricity.



Linkback - Wychnor - 2 Bed - School Hols
]]> 7/1/2008 1:59:14 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4627 4627
Linkback - myholidayresorts.com / tenerife dreams
]]> 6/30/2008 9:42:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4626 4626
Linkback - Are CLASSIC CLUB and LEISURE ALLIANCE DODGY ?
]]> 6/30/2008 4:35:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4625 4625 Johnny


Linkback - Help Needed Urgently
]]> 6/30/2008 1:09:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4624 4624 Part of the deal was Gold membership for one year and three years normal membersip.
I'm happy with the time share , part of the sales pitch was that we could get discounted flights and accomodation , when we challenged the sales manager on this he went away with our route and he came back with a very good price.
When we came to do the actual booking through Interval Travel our experience was somewhat different.
I phoned and asked for a quotation, details were taken and I was told they would phonr me back. Three days later I phoned them again, again I was told we will phone you back, nothing so I faxed them this time I got a reply, a £1000 dearer than other quotes,
I won't be using them again nor will I renew My Gold Membership.

Linkback - Disappointed With Interval Gold Membership
]]> 6/30/2008 11:50:16 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4623 4623
The complex is unique in that it is owned outright by the timeshare members and not by a company, or property developer.

For more information please see the website, please click on the link below:

http://www.clubvistaverde.co.uk/

Some of the reasons why I like the bungalows are:

Very quiet
Comfortable and exceptionally clean
Very large bed
Excellent wardrobe space
Satellite TV showing Sky Sports and Sky News, also bungalows have a DVD player and there is library of DVDs (and books) in Reception
Staff speak excellent English and are very helpful and friendly
All bungalows are on one level - no steps so good for disabled or older people
No need to get up early to reserve sunbeds as there are plenty available at all times
Lastly, all bungalows are the same, no difference (unlike some hotels)

You can speak to the Chairman, who is based in the UK, at any time, concerning buying weeks or renting.

If you want any further information please contact me.

Regards

Tim

Linkback - Club Vista Verde, Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
]]> 6/29/2008 12:00:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4622 4622
The seats rating the best chances for survival are those in the exit row and in the rows immediately in front of and behind the exit row. This was the finding of the study that was carried out for the Civil Aviation Authority by Greenwich University.

In the event of a fire, passengers seated in rows two to five had a chance of escape that was rated as ‘better than even,’ but ”the difference between surviving and perishing is greatly reduced”.

Seats rated as the most dangerous are those that are six or more rows from an emergency exit, where ”the chances of perishing far outweigh those of surviving”.

These findings are prompting concern about a new trend in airlines to charge passengers more for exit row seats, and for providing the opportunity for some passengers to choose seats online.

The director of the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety, Robert Gifford, commented: “Your chance of survival should not be based on your ability to pay for an emergency exit seat or to reserve your seat online.”

All aircraft must undergo an evacuation test to demonstrate that all passengers would be able to escape within 90 seconds, even with half of the exits blocked.

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/your-safety-could-depend-on-an-aisle-seat-5633080.html


Linkback - Your safety could depend on an aisle seat
]]> 6/29/2008 6:53:01 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4621 4621
Peter and Donna Ockenden love Cornwall. But although they wanted to spend more time there, they couldn't stretch to buying a property. "The cost of our mortgage and our school fees meant we were not in a position to buy a second home," says Peter, a Hampshire-based quantity surveyor. "And even if we were, we would have struggled to keep it going." But they found a way of owning a Cornish bolthole: not freehold, but timeshare.

It is not your usual timeshare, but part of a community of newbuild houses, set in a wooded corner of the Trelowarrren estate on the Lizard Peninsula. In 1,000 acres, a mile from the nearest road, the location could not be better for their young children.

Beautifully furnished and open plan, the oak and granite house has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a balcony with views over the estate. At current prices, a 30-year lease on a low-season week in a similar house, costs about £7,000. And if you still think timeshare is a dirty word, this is "eco timeshare".

The Trelowarren timeshare scheme was dreamt up by Sir Ferrers Vyvyan in 2002 as a pragmatic way of providing a viable future for his ancestral home (his family has been here since 1427). He started with two upgraded period cottages, and a terrace of four houses in a converted estate office. As timeshares go, the deal was pretty standard, but aside from offering a buy-back guarantee (at cost, after five years) Ferrers had a green agenda from the start. The houses were highly insulated, furnished with natural materials and decorated with organic paints. He set up his own company to build the new houses, which would be carbon neutral. The houses use rainwater harvesting and recycled newspaper insulation.

A "district" boiler, which pumps hot water to all the properties, is fed by coppice produced on the land. Last year, the World Travel awards deemed Trelowarren one of the world's leading green resorts (the only one in the UK). But although this does help attracts holiday rentals, it is the timeshare, rather than the eco, that seems to sell the place.

"We bought because it gave us the opportunity to spend time in a place that we couldn't possibly hope to own," says Peter. "But, unlike a rented holiday-home, there is a sense of ownership."

The Ockendens originally bought a September week in Fogou, a thatched estate cottage, four years ago. When the first batch of new houses were completed in 2006, they upgraded to a fortnight in Chyreen. Now they own three weeks, making them typical among Trelowarren buyers, who don't seem to be able to stop at just the one.

Jenifer Young started with one spring week in one of the smallest of the original estate office conversions, bought when the first wave of timeshares were launched back in 2003. She now owns six weeks (three in April, two in June, and one in July), spread across three different properties.

"I found a week's stay just wasn't long enough," says Jenifer. "And since I'd already made a bit of a profit, the prospect of a second price rise prompted me to buy more weeks."

Buyers have seen increases, especially in the first couple of years, but there is an "ouch" factor in the annual service charges, which are £400 per week on average, more on the larger properties. Timeshare owners can holiday-let, and the going rate at Trelowarren is about £2,500 a week in high season.

Jenifer Young's July week was bought purely as a rental investment to cover the majority of her costs. But she does not see it as an investment in the conventional sense.

"The payback comes from spending time at Trelowarren," she says. "And the charges reflect the quality of the accommodation and the setting."

There is an ozone pool in a walled garden, a restaurant in the old stable-yard; Lizard beaches and the Helford river are just a few miles away. And with timeshare, you always know the neighbours.

"Most of our owners say they like to feel part of a community," says Ferrers. "And I've noticed a growing unease about the whole business of buying homes that are left empty for most of the year. In that respect, timeshare could be seen as a green choice."

Trelowarren timeshare prices currently range from £4,500 to £35,000 per week. The latter is for a 30-year lease in high season. Resales include the remaining 25 years on a late April week at £7,300. And six new eco-houses are to be built in the winter.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/property/main.jhtml?xml=/property/2008/06/28/ptimeshare12.xml


Linkback - Eco homes: Sharing more than just time…
]]> 6/29/2008 6:48:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4620 4620
The magazine is free to read online at [url]www.ownersperspective.com[/url] and there is also a members area full of the latest news, advice and articles about the industry.

Owners Perspective Magazine is an independent publication specifically for timeshare, fractional, destination club and private residence club owners offering owner related news, resort reviews, exclusive interviews, previews of the newest resort affiliations, destination & city guides, reader offers and much more.

We welcome feedback from readers, including questions they want answered about industry related topics, and on what they would like to see in the magazine. Also available in print from January 2009.


Linkback - Free Independent Magazine For Timeshare Owners
]]> 6/28/2008 5:20:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4619 4619
Being highly sceptical and of the opinion "you don't get owt for nowt" I suspect to get complete freedom from annual management fees (which are quite substantial for us), there must be some big catch involved. May be another way to try and persuade owners to become Seasons members. We are not likely to take up the invitation but would welcome news from other Clowance owners if they find out more.

Linkback - Seasons invitation to Clowance owners
]]> 6/27/2008 6:10:36 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4618 4618
Timeshare deals, which allow buyers to occupy holiday accommodation for specific periods in alternation with others, have won millions of takers worldwide since the 1970s. They are often sold as a cost-effective alternative to renting, hotels or a second residence. According to data from the Organization for Timeshare in Europe (OTE), in 2001 there were 1.452 million holiday centers in 25 European countries, 1.4 million families using this kind of accommodation and 200,000 Europeans employed in this sector, with sales totaling €2.3 billion per year.

Since 1994, an EU directive has helped to harmonize timeshare rules across the EU, but litigation between operators and holidaymakers is still frequent, notably about conditions and quality of service. Furthermore, new holiday products and services, similar to timeshare but not covered by the directive, have emerged. These include new types of holiday clubs giving holidaymakers reductions in the cost of their stays if they take out a subscription. Some of these new contracts clearly circumvent consumer protection rules.


More deals covered by consumer protection rules

The revised draft directive, which supplements the general rules introduced by the recent directive on unfair commercial practices, will cover both timeshare packages and new products that so far have escaped any legislation. Consumers will be better protected by rules that clearly state their rights, and will find it easier to go to court. Honest operators will no longer have to face unfair competition from fraudsters.

The text strengthens a series of existing harmonized provisions (right of withdrawal, choice of contract language, prohibition on deposits during the reflection period, pre-contractual information). Some consumer rights will be widened, e.g. MEPs would like to extend the withdrawal period to 21 days (compared with 10 days now and 14 proposed in the Commission draft).

MEPs did not back a proposal by rapporteur Toine Manders (ALDE, NL), who would have preferred a regulation (directly applicable throughout the EU), rather than a directive (which must be transposed into Member States' national laws), so as to achieve more thorough harmonization.

By contrast, they advocated a higher standard of consumer protection for long-term holiday deals (e.g. clubs), to be paid for in stages, than for traditional time-share contracts. But, not wishing to push this distinction too far, they rejected amendments that would have introduced more restrictive provisions (obligation to register agencies, national registers of service providers, mandatory civil liability insurance), leaving it to Member States to decide whether to supplement their laws in this area.

Clearer rules for holiday firms

The proposal aims to enhance consumer confidence and legal clarity, which are essential to the growth of this promising sector, via simplified EU-wide rules. Most timeshare holidaymakers are from Germany or the UK , where most of the agencies are located, whereas most of the holiday centers are located in Spain , Italy , France and Portugal .

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080623142/Latest/Time-Share-Holidays-Clearer-Rules-Soon-Throughout-the-EU.html


Linkback - Clearer Timeshare Rules Soon Throughout the EU
]]> 6/26/2008 7:30:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4617 4617
A company named Timeshare Acquisitions has sent a postcard mailer to a large number of timeshare owners in our area, triggering calls to the BBB. The BBB Reliability Report of the Better Business Bureau serving Los Angeles/Colton, CA, which is where the company is primarily based, states:

This company advertises an offer for time share owners to relieve themselves from future ownership responsibilities. According to the company, this is accomplished by paying the company to assume financial responsibility for the timeshare, and then respondents re-coup the money by using the amount as a deduction on their federal taxes the coming year. Although transaction fees range, the company usually requires respondents to pay approximately five years worth of maintenance fees.

This company is not in the business of buying timeshares. Their actual business is persuading timeshare owners to pay them to take responsibility for the property. There are no cash offers made to anyone at seminars. The company's "offer," consists of a proposal to pay them to take the property off your hands.

Consumers should be aware that the company does not handle the entire closing and escrow services. This is done by Timeshare Closing Services, Inc. out of Orlando. FL.

If you are considering selling your timeshare, other options are available. Some companies will sell for a fee, but collect only after the timeshare is sold. Do they handle the entire closing and provide escrow services? You may try selling your timeshare yourself, by placing an ad in a newspaper or magazine, or contacting a real estate agent familiar with the area. If all the timeshares have been sold in your development, consider asking the seller to establish an on-site resale office. As an alternative, you may consider an exchange program. For a fee, these programs allow you to arrange trades with other resort units in different locations.

The BBB offers this general advice on timeshare sales:

Reselling Your Timeshare

Unscrupulous companies typically contact you by phone, mail or the Internet asking you to call a phone number about your timeshare. The salesperson may claim that the market is "hot" for resales, when in fact the market varies considerably depending on location and the prime season for that particular unit. For an advance fee of about $300 to $700, some salespeople promise to sell your timeshare for a price equal to or greater than your purchase price. They may claim to have a list of sales agents and potential buyers. While the seller may possess these lists, it is unlikely the parties are interested buyers. To further entice you, they may promise a money-back guarantee or a government bond if they can not sell your timeshare within a certain amount of time.

In the end some owners have found that their timeshare did not sell, their fee was not returned and they were given a bond worth as little as $60 to $70. If you are considering reselling your timeshare and are approached by a company offering to help, the Better Business Bureau recommends the following:

Do not agree to anything over the telephone until you have had a chance to check out the company.

Ask the person to send you written materials.

Ask for references, including address and phone number and contact them.

Ask where the company is located and in what states it does business.

Ask if the company's salespeople are licensed to sell real estate where your timeshare is located. If so, verify this with the state licensing board.

Find out if the company charges a commission. Do they handle the entire closing and provide escrow services? Do they charge an up-front listing or advertising fee? What does it cover and is it refundable?

Be wary of companies charging an advance "appraisal" fee for services. Consider opting for a company that offers to sell for a fee only after the timeshare is sold.

Contact the Better Business Bureau (http://www.bbb.org/), state Attorney General's office, and local consumer protection agencies in the state where the company is located to find out if complaints have been lodged against the company.

Keep in mind that there are other resale options. You may try selling your timeshare yourself, by placing an ad in a newspaper or magazine, or contacting a real estate agent familiar with the area. If all the timeshares have been sold in your development, consider asking the seller to establish an on-site resale office. As an alternative, you may consider an exchange program. For a fee, these programs allow you to arrange trades with other resort units in different locations

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080623141/Latest/Caution-On-Timeshare-Purchase-Offers.html


Linkback - BBB Offers Caution On Timeshare Purchase Offers-US
]]> 6/26/2008 7:27:12 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4616 4616 any info would be appreciated
thanks

Linkback - il group
]]> 6/26/2008 5:34:37 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4615 4615 A fault was identified however despite this the refund of my postage costs was refused. It has now developed the same fault.
Would it be better to go to the credit card company? If I return to Pixmania again I will have to pay the postage.[:(]
Has anyone had similar problems.

Any advice welcome [:)]

Linkback - Pixmania
]]> 6/26/2008 12:29:59 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4614 4614

Hi all.

Im new on here been having a nosey and looking for some advice/help/leadership whichever is possible as you all seem to know what you are talking about.

Ill explain the state of play and see if anyone able to shed any light and help me out. Apologies for such a long post too... im a woman ok!

Recently moved in with my partner who before i met him last year " gave in" to one of these time share deals with the Regency Country Club" for a nice figure of £7995 with a 29.9% apr [:0]

Anyway earlier this year he decided to mention it to me and said about us using it. Im not too genned up on how it all works but i don't feel we are being looked after too well.

Now ill prob fill in some more infomation later about the whole thing as to what we are " supposed" to be entitled to but for now im sorry if its a bit basic.

He is supposed to be able to have 1 week in Tenerife, 1 week in Italy and then 2 weeks anywhere in the world. Is this right? It sounds ominoous for me as then he said " oh thats only in the first year" This confused me as to be honest he was clearly brain washed when he stayed there last year signed up for something he wasn't too clear about.
He was then also told he had some membership to some " ice gallery" whatever this is something to do with cruises and staying at hotels all over the world where you dont pay to stay you only pay for your food?? This once again all sounds strange to me.

9 months on he looked at the posh folder with golden embossed writing blah de blah and realised he still was without the majority of the information to use this whole package. There was no information on how to book who to speak to just some random hotmail address from a lad called Steve!!!

Finally after trying everything we could find on the net and about 10 different numbers did we manage to speak to a lady who assured us everything was fine we could go the week we wanted to and she would send out all passwords brochures etc.... We still haven't received this 3 weeks on!!!

At the Regency apparently you can only stay for a week and you have to do something like a Tuesday to Tuesday. We are wanting a 2 week holiday so prob going to have to stay at other hotels before and after which to me is a total pain in the jacksie but he is determined all will be fine. Now we have our flights booked im constantly trying to get some form of booking confirmation from this lady who emails us now and then but we are getting nothing.

He also had some random man ring up to say he had won a free weeks holiday etc but as my OH was busy he said to call back and he never did.

Last week he decided to clear this silly figure up by doing a balance transfer and pay it all off in one go but i really dont like these things and feel the way we are being kept in the dark and fed.... well you know i feel like a mushroom!

Can any of you shed any light as in to how these people are supposed to be dealing with us, i know thats vague but i only know what he is telling me about it and the websites are so vague as is the brochures we have received just full ofpretty pictures...

Is there any way we can sell all this just to get it off our hands and not lose too much money? What else could we be allowed and what is our yearly allowance. I understand a lot of this may not be able to be answered but if someone happened to be in the same boat i would really appreciate it


Thanks so much for taking the time to read this and prob shake your head at me

Linkback - Regency Virgin Requires Help
]]> 6/26/2008 11:50:19 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4613 4613
In Cornwall, Club La Costa's Trenython manor just outside the picturesque town of Fowey offers double rooms from £69 per night (a 77 per cent reduction on the usual rate) on stays before June 30. Deals may also be available after that date.

Reservations: 0800 0280 052, quoting OTE offer.

De Vere projects with price cuts include a three-bedroom lodge sleeping eight at Belton Woods, in Lincolnshire, from £730 for three nights, a two-bedroom apartment sleeping four at The Carrick, close to Loch Lomond, from £815 for four nights, and lodges sleeping six at Cameron House from £550 for three nights. Reservations; 0845 4028 402, quoting reference OTE.

In the Lake District, a three-night inspection mini-break at Seasons at Whitbarrow Village costs £99 for two, or just £16.50 per person per night. Reservations: 0845 330 2838, quoting reference OTE June 08.

These offers are available through the Organisation for Timeshare in Europe (OTE), which has announced a new system to handle complaints, including a dispute resolution scheme, in tandem with The Association of Timeshare Owners Committees.

http://www.birminghammail.net/lifestyle/travel/travel-reports/2008/06/25/bargain-breaks-at-british-timeshares-97319-21149053/


Linkback - Bargain breaks at British timeshares
]]> 6/26/2008 7:14:55 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4612 4612
Las Vegas, Nev. - June 25th, 2008 -- Diamond Resorts International® (DRI), a global leader in the vacation ownership industry, has appointed Bill Tsao, as Vice President, Operations, Latin America, for DRI. Tsao will initially be responsible for developing, implementing and managing DRI’s growth and operations strategy in Latin America, including resort acquisition and development, sales and marketing and resort operations. Tsao will report to President and Chief Operating Officer for DRI, Simon Crawford-Welch, PhD, RRP.

“Providing additional choices in resort destinations and penetrating new markets is key to DRI’s growth and success strategy,” says Crawford-Welch. “Bill’s extensive experience in the Latin American market will drive new sales opportunities and well-planned expansion into high-demand destinations. His expertise will be invaluable in fulfilling our worldwide commitment to greater choice and comfort for our owners, members and guests.”

Tsao has over 16 years of experience in the timeshare industry, including positions as Vice President of North and Latin American Business Development for International Cruise & Excursions (ICE) and Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Raintree Resorts, a multi-site, multi-national timeshare development and sales organization operating primarily in Mexico. During his tenure at Raintree, Tsao designed and implemented an innovative consumer affairs department strategy as well as having direct P&L responsibility for sales and marketing operations which included targeted products and programs for the Latin American consumer marketplace.

"As a global hospitality brand we’re looking beyond our traditional marketing demographics for additional growth opportunities,” says Stephen J. Cloobeck, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DRI. “Bill’s vision for our Latin American operations is ambitious, achievable and well aligned with our desire to deliver our brand tenets of simplicity, choice and comfort coupled with superior, customer-focused hospitality worldwide."

Diamond Resorts International®, based in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest vacation ownership companies in the world with more than 110 branded and affiliated resorts and nearly 23,000 guest beds in 14 countries with destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to its more than 360,000 owners and members through the branded service of more than 5,500 team members worldwide, Diamond Resorts International® is dedicated to providing its guests with effortless and relaxing vacation experiences every time, for a lifetime.

For more information, please visit DiamondResorts.com



Linkback - Press Rlease 25th June
]]> 6/25/2008 3:24:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4611 4611
Executives of Interval Leisure Group, which is expected to be spun off from IAC/InterActiveCorp (IACI) by August, introduced the timeshare-exchange business to investors Tuesday as one that stands to grow even in the recent economic downturn.

During a conference call - the second to highlight each of the four firms being spun off from IAC - Interval Chief Executive Craig Nash focused on how the company's recurring revenue base has given it the ability to grow throughout a variety of economies.

Interval - along with Ticketmaster, LendingTree and the HSN home-shopping network - are set to be spun off as public companies by August. IAC will retain its ad-supported Internet businesses, such as Ask.com and Match.com.

The restructuring, which IAC Chief Executive Barry Diller hopes will jump- start IAC's slumping share price, was embroiled through the winter in a bitter courtroom fight with IAC's majority voting shareholder Liberty Media Corp. (LXX) . IAC won the legal battle and the two sides agreed to settle their differences last month.

Interval Leisure Group - which includes Interval International and ResortQuest Hawaii - is a business that is growing, with 2007 revenue of $360.5 million, up 43% from 2003. Over that period, earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization - or Ebitda - more than doubled. But it didn't fit with the rest of IAC Chief Executive Barry Diller's empire.

During the call Tuesday, IAC Chief Financial Officer Thomas J. McInerney said Interval is starting out with $450 million in debt and $125 million in cash.

Nash said recurring revenue contributed 87% of the company's revenue growth since 2003, and noted that even in the recession that followed the Sept. 11, 2001, bombings, Interval saw growth in business.

He said the company's ability to perform well in any economy is a function of new sales into the market as well as use by existing customers. "The real benefit of having a product that is prepaid in nature is that people continue to use it," he noted.

"It's always good to have consumers who have a lot of money, so we clearly would prefer (a better economy) if we had a choice," Interval Chief Financial Officer John A. Galea said, "But our model works well" in all economic conditions.

He focused on the company's customer demographics and time-tested business model, amid plans to expand internationally and to its specialty lodging offering, as key factors expected to continue driving Interval's growth.

Nash said Interval's business model - which he said provides an "attractive value" for customers with a "desire for flexibility with relatively low-cost membership" - has withstood the test of time, as have its executives. Nash and many other top company executive have been with the company for more than 20 years, with Galea having one of the shortest tenures at eight years.

Nash also likened Interval's business to that of a securities exchange. " Realize that we are not at all capital-intensive, but rather a technology-based marketplace to provide value-added services," said Nash.

Regarding the company's customer demographics, mainly high-income baby boomers, Galea said, "We think that the sweet spot of being in the high-income" demographic "is very good for future prospects." Still, Nash said the company also considers Generation X another potential customer base to join the nearly two million customers Interval had in 2007.

Beyond Interval International, which made up 88% of Interval Leisure's 2007 revenue, there is ResortQuest Hawaii, the second-largest independent vacation rental and property management company in Hawaii. That segment will focus on expanding into specialty lodging and private residence clubs and condo-hotel membership programs, which Interval sees as a growing alternative to buying second homes.

Interval, which depends on having a large supply of properties it can offer customers, said time-share growth is expected to continue, despite downturns in residential housing and construction. Nash said more than 30,000 units have firm commitments for construction in 2009 and beyond, on top of more than 8,000 units that are expected to be built this year.

Meanwhile, the company is expecting to increase its offerings by continuing its expansion into international markets, especially in Asia and Dubai. "Dubai is one of those big-box kind of markets that we believe one day could rival the Orlandos and Las Vegases of the world," Nash said.

IAC shares were recently down 17 cents to $20.07.

http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/djf500/200806241302DOWJONESDJONLINE000460_FORTUNE5.htm


Linkback - Interval CEO: Firm Set For Growth Despite Economy
]]> 6/25/2008 7:21:33 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4610 4610
A company wants to build the methadone clinic at an old gas station near the Turnpike and Interstate 80.

Citizens opposed to the proposed clinic packed the Kidder Township Municipal Building Monday night.

Carole Walbert is the attorney for residents who are appealing a zoning permit granted to Pinnacle Treatment Centers. She argues that decision should be overturned because Pinnacle Treatment did not exist when the application was filed.

"They had to be a legal entity at the time they made the application, so since they did not exist in Pennsylvania, it's like Casper the Ghost filed the application and it does not exist," said Walbert.

The company from western Pennsylvania wants to build the methadone clinic at an old gas station near the Turnpike and Interstate 80, across the street from the Mountain Laurel Resort. Ed Peterson, general manger of Mountain Laurel, said he does not want to see this happen.

"People are going to say, 'I'm not going to take my children to this resort. I'm not going to buy a timeshare where, across the street, they can get drugs,'" said Peterson.

The private company expects an average of 250 people a day going in and out of the treatment center for heroin addicts. Some residents worry the place will bring crime.

"We feel this is just going to bring the city problems out here where we have little crime. We came here because we like it that way," said Henry Westendarp of Kidder Township.

The Kidder Township zoning board wants more information from both sides before making a decision. Another meeting is set for next month.

http://www.wnep.com/Global/story.asp?S=8544900&nav=menu158_2


Linkback - Residents Resist Drug Clinic
]]> 6/25/2008 7:19:26 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4609 4609
Ryanair Holdings Plc. announced a new route from Birmingham to Prague starting October 26 which will operate five times a week, carrying an additional 70,000 passengers yearly sustaining a further 70 jobs in the area.

The airline said this follows the launch of the airline's new base at Birmingham last week when it announced nine other new routes also due to launch in October.

http://www.hemscott.com/news/static/tfn/item.do?newsId=65115999785974


Linkback - Ryanair - new route Birmingham to Prague
]]> 6/25/2008 7:16:59 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4608 4608
Mondial Assistance is unveiling the preferred 2008 summer destinations for Europeans travelling by plane. This ranking is based on an analysis of over 418,000 travel insurance contracts subscribed to, up until May 15th 2008. These contracts were exclusively booked on the websites of European airline companies, clients of Mondial Assistance, for flights scheduled between June 15th and September 15th 2008.

Europeans travelling by plane choose Spain as their favourite destination
For 25.3% of planned flights, Spain is the favourite destination, followed by Italy (14.1%), the U.K. (13.8%), France (9.4%), Ireland (4.6%) and Portugal (4.3%). Although France remains the leading tourist destination in the world, it only appears among the top 3 preferred destinations for the French, the Portuguese, the Swiss and the British.

The French prefer France and Southern Europe: the first three leading destinations from France are: France (21.1%), Spain (11.2%) and Italy (9.5%)

The Germans will sunbathe in Southern Europe. 28.3% prefer Spain, 13.3% choose Italy, and only 9.5% will fly to the U.K.

Convinced Spanish lovers, 31.7% of British vacationers will fly to Spain, 14.1% will remain in the U.K and 10.2% will spend their holidays in France.

The Italians love their country, and 29.2% of them will visit a part of Italy by plane. Although Spain attracts 23.4% of vacationing Italians, 14.9% will spend their holidays in the U.K.

Champions at staying-at-home, more than one third (35.8%) of all Spanish vacationers will remain in Spain, 16.9% will travel to the U.K. and 14% to Italy.

The Irish love Spain (21.1%) and also Poland (19.2%) and the United States (8.9%).
The Dutch will visit Spain (26.8%), Italy (18.8%) and the U.K. (9.1%).

The Polish for the most part will travel to the U.K. (37.5%), Ireland (22.1%) and Italy (14.6%).

As for the Portuguese, they appreciate the U.K. (25.9%), Spain (17.2%) and France (15.3%).

The Swedish head straight to Italy (26.3%), the U.K. (24.7%) and Spain (18.6%)

And finally, the Swiss prefer Spain (33.1%), France (12.4%) and Italy (11.6%).

10 days is the average holiday

Europeans who will travel by plane this summer will leave for an average of ten days. The Polish (13.8 days), the French (13 days), the Dutch (11.9 days), the Germans and the Irish (11 days) leave for a bit longer than the average vacationer. On the contrary, the Swedes (8 days), the British (8.3 days), the Portuguese and the Spanish (9 days), the Italians and the Swiss (10 days) take shorter holidays than the average European vacationer.

“e-Magin, our e-commerce platform, is so successful with the airline companies that today we have a unique point of view on air travel in Europe and throughout the world,” declares Erick Morazin, International Sales Director at Mondial Assistance. “As a result we can follow the most frequent destinations, booking behaviours, holiday durations, and numerous other information about air travel in real time.”

http://www.traveldailynews.com/pages/show_page/26227


Linkback - Where will Europeans fly to this summer?
]]> 6/25/2008 7:15:22 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4607 4607
Has anyone heard anything about them?

|\/|artin

Linkback - Real Estate timeshare sales?
]]> 6/24/2008 8:21:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4606 4606
Linkback - Dona Lola Wireless Internet?
]]> 6/24/2008 1:41:18 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4605 4605 Guess what it is:



5 points for a correct answer




Linkback - Guess what it is - 23 June
]]> 6/23/2008 9:53:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4604 4604
Just wanted to say hello, i've been looking for ages for a dri forum thats not related to the TP incestual cess pit.

This looks the bizzo :)

Regards,

pieinthesky

Linkback - New Member
]]> 6/23/2008 6:59:06 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4603 4603
Linkback - 4000 points to give away!
]]> 6/21/2008 11:49:26 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4602 4602 I see that on TYG there is talk of how quiet the forum is and will become in the future.
The thought is that forums will become quieter because peoples freedom of speech is being intruded upon.
If intruding upon freedom of speech means warning people that unfounded accusations and libel are no longer to be tolerated then only the people guilty of that speculation and libel could possibly object.
Suddenly a tougher stance is being taken on TYG against those who have persistently, over the years, flouted the rules of internet decency and one member has finally been banned (at least two years too late in my opinion)
I am all for speaking out but it has to be consistent with proven truths not mere speculation as to a persons thoughts on what might be going on. Negative postings of that nature are just scaremongering and are never in the interests of the membership.

We all need questions answering from time to time and we all have worrying thoughts as to what is in the future but there are ways of posting in a questioning manner as opposed to an accusory manner.
My own thoughts would be that, if in doubt, then PM the moderators with the intended post and only submit to open forum once approved by the moderators.
What cannot be allowed to happen is the stifling of open and honest debate on all forums.
I reiterate open and honest debate should not contain wild and speculative accusations. If people wish to speculate then they should state that what they are saying is mere speculation or guesswork.

Linkback - Diamond forums quiet
]]> 6/21/2008 10:37:33 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4601 4601
AGGRESSIVE TOUTS pushing timeshare and holiday club memberships in Paphos are driving locals and visitors to distraction.

Paphos tourism has taken a few knocks in the past weeks; with the announcement of a fall in visitor numbers, and hotels showing concern over heavy work taking place on the seafront during the summer months.

“Paphos needs to be careful now,” said 62-year-old Moutallos resident James Oswald. “We are losing our grip on the tourist industry and touting is just another nail in the coffin.”

Oswald takes the bus daily from the harbour in Kato Paphos, to Paphos old town.

“I regularly see these touts harassing people,” he told the Cyprus Mail yesterday. “They choose their target, approach them and really bother them.”

Barbara Wallace, a retiree from Kamares village, agrees.

“My brother came to stay with me last summer for three weeks. He was walking in the harbour with his wife when a man came up and tried to convince him to attend a presentation at a local hotel.

“He made all sorts of promises, including a free holiday as a prize for attending. My brother and his wife walked towards the man’s car and became suspicious when they realised it didn’t have number plates.

“When my brother changed his mind, the tout and his friend, who had appeared out of thin air, tried to manhandle him inside. It’s lucky my brother is a large man,” Wallace said.

Year-round good weather, accessibility and a large British population make Paphos a good target for timeshare and shared-vacation ownerships.

These ‘ownership clubs’ emerged after the EU brought timesharing under legislation. Clients are lured by offers of ‘lifetime’ holidays for a reasonable price. A number of these operations are scams where consumers hand over a substantial joining fee, and are told they may book holidays at a beneficial rate. These are usually no cheaper than buying from a travel agent or booking online.

As the EU has not yet brought this practice into line, consumers do not have the mandatory ten-day cooling off period to change their minds.

Nicos Sophocleous, the Assistant Divisional Police Commander said that since March 25 a total of 400 fines for €80 have been issued to individuals for timeshare and holiday club touting in Kato Paphos.

The touts are fully aware their practice is illegal and use a variety of means to escape detection.

A number of well-known groups operate in the harbour area in Kato Paphos on a daily basis. They consist of a look-out, generally a scantily clad female, and one or two youngish men who approach individuals or couples they believe to be tourists, with a big smile, or friendly greeting.

They then usually try and give away a ‘winning’ scratch card, or suggest attendance to a presentation. There is also the prerequisite getaway vehicle – a car or moped – parked out of sight and usually does not have a number plate. Watching them operate is like watching a well-oiled machine. At the first sign of trouble, and on the lookouts signal, they all scatter in various directions.

“We have really had enough of them,” complained the McFarland family, whose visit to Paphos has been marred by their experience.

“It’s bad enough that there are water cuts and the whole seafront is a building site; but these guys are the worst.

“You expect this kind of thing in Tenerife but not in Paphos.

“Every day we walk along here to have lunch at the harbour and every day we are being harassed. It’s not just us.

“I have seen these guys approaching other tourists, and they were complaining too. The government should really crack down on them. As far as I’m aware its illegal, and its bloody annoying too,” he said.

Paphos and Larnaca airports have posters warning tourists about the free scratch cards that always win, free or discount holiday packages, free air tickets, limited time offers and holiday discount cards.

The office of fair-trading in the UK, recently issued a stark warning to Cyprus. Stop the bogus vacation clubs now and avoid damaging the tourist industry.

The best way to stop touts is by reporting them to police on 1429.

http://www.cyprus-mail.com/news/main.php?id=39855&cat_id=1



Linkback - ‘Touting out of control in Paphos’
]]> 6/20/2008 5:33:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4600 4600
AS SOARING food and fuel prices are forcing many families to cut down on luxuries, the thought of a holiday that is already booked and paid for provides a much-needed respite.

But thousands of holidaymakers have had an unpleasant surprise, after being asked to fork out hundreds of pounds extra for a trip in surcharges.

The strong euro and high cost of fuel have led to dozens of travel companies imposing surcharges of up to ten per cent. These charges are usually hidden in the small print, but have rarely been imposed since the 1970s.

Some families have been asked to pay as much as £600 extra for a holiday costing £6000. Many could be forced into debt to pay for a break which was meant to be a chance to get away from their worries.

The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) has defended the charges, saying that small operators have little choice if they are to avoid going under. But consumer groups have hit out at the extra costs, and called for more transparency for travellers booking holidays.

According to ABTA, 26 companies out of their 1500 members have asked for permission to impose the surcharges. These are mainly smaller companies offering holidays to European destinations such as Portugal, Italy and Norway. So far, the larger companies such as Thomas Cook have ruled out charging extra.

The list now includes the Algarve Agency, the Camping and Caravanning Club, China Travel Service, Noble Caledonia, Palmers Travel, Pavilion Tours, ScotTravel, Solmar Villas, Stowaway Travel, and the UK Holiday Group.

Sean Tipton, spokesman for ABTA, said the average family holiday for two adults and two children cost £1500. This could be subject to a surcharge of up to £150.

He said: "Companies do regard surcharging as very much a last resort. If they've agreed a price with the customer, it's obviously very unpopular to go back to them and ask them for more money. But in many cases the ones who are doing that are already making an operating loss.

"The travel industry often gets criticised, but it is a very competitive market and companies can only make a profit of three or four per cent. If exchange rates change drastically, they could lose a lot of money. Fuel costs are also rising, and airlines are passing on the costs.

"ABTA members have to show us why they need to surcharge. As long as we're happy, we verify the process. If they want to surcharge more than ten per cent, they have to give the customer the option of cancelling. They also have to absorb the first two per cent themselves. They've also got to make it clear in their booking conditions. It's obviously not nice, and it's not something a company will do lightly."

He said they still advised customers to book early to get the best deals, since many companies had increased the prices in their brochures.

Andy Eastham, a marketing executive for Discover the World, said they had absorbed a "substantial amount" of the increased cost, but still had to charge some holidaymakers extra. He said only around 100 out of their 12,000 customers this year would be affected. He said: "The surcharges are in respect of fuel increases imposed by the shipping company and currency surcharges due to the devaluation of the pound against the euro."

A sales assistant for the Algarve Agency said: "It's mainly European holidays that are affected. We usually absorb the first two per cent. It's nothing more than ten per cent. It's in the booking conditions."

Katherine Saunders, company secretary of Golf Holidays Abroad, said they had taken out the option of surcharges with ABTA, but decided not to impose them.

She said: "We wanted to protect ourselves from going under, but in the end we decided to absorb all the costs ourselves. Our customers are more important to us, and many of them come back year after year. It's a very difficult time for travel companies and consumers. This is going to put some smaller companies out of business."

In April last year, £1 bought 1.48 euros. This has now slumped to 1.27, a fall of 14 per cent. The rises in the world price of oil have led to a steep increase in costs for airlines.

As well as surcharges, holidaymakers are finding that the strengthening euro has reduced the value of their spending money. Experts estimate that it has added 22 per cent to the cost of hiring a car, buying a meal or a glass of beer.

Lorna Cowan, the editor of Which? Holiday, said it was unfair for travel companies to pass the extra costs on to consumers. She advised people to read the small print carefully when booking a holiday.

She said: "These surcharges can be quite a significant amount, especially on a long haul holiday. A lot of people are already working to a very tight budget, and this is really going to put the pressure on. If it was the other way round, and prices were coming down, companies would not issue a refund. It's not fair to ask for more money from the consumer."

But despite the increasing costs, she said families were unlikely to cut back on foreign travel, and would make savings elsewhere. Their recent survey found only 38 per cent of holidaymakers expected to stay in the UK.

She added: "Holidays are very important to most people, and they will make them a priority. Consumers will try and save money in other ways."

http://news.scotsman.com/opinion/Can39t-wait-for-that-holiday.4206565.jp


Linkback - Can't wait for that holiday-It could cost you more
]]> 6/20/2008 5:30:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4599 4599 What baby milk is sold at the supermarket? We use Aptamil, and are wondering if we need to bring our own.
Also, does anyonme know what kind of nappies you can get at the supermarket? Do they do Pampers size 3?
Rather specific, I know but thought I'd ask...
Thanks in advance.

Linkback - Question re baby at Anfi
]]> 6/20/2008 8:42:57 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4598 4598
Linkback - Club La Costa.........Not for us
]]> 6/20/2008 8:03:56 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4597 4597
Las Vegas, Nev. - June 20th, 2008 -- Diamond Resorts International® (DRI), a global leader in the vacation ownership industry, has appointed Joel Lazar, RRP, as Vice President, Marketing, Eastern Region, for DRI. Lazar’s more than 20 years of vacation ownership and fractional ownership marketing experience will be leveraged to generate a significant number of tours for DRI’s Eastern operations, including resort destinations in Tennessee, Missouri, Virginia, St. Maarten and Florida. Lazar will report to James R. Danz, RRP ("Jim"), DRI’s Chief Marketing Officer.

“Joel has proven abilities in attracting qualified prospects through innovation in communication and product design across many facets of the real estate industry,” says Jim Danz, “His addition to the industry-leading DRI marketing team will enable us to deliver consistent tour flow to current and planned sales centers in DRI’s Eastern Region.”

Prior to his engagement with DRI, Lazar held senior management positions with The Owners Club, Intrawest Resort Ownership Corp., Cimarron Golf Resort and Hilton Grand Vacations Club. As the Corporate Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Transeastern Homes, Lazar helped the company gain recognition as the fastest growing homebuilder in the country. During his tenure, Transeastern sold nearly $2 Billion in new homes and successfully launched 20 communities. Lazar earned the Florida Home Builders Association’s Marketing Executive of the Year award in 2004.

“Building a world-class organization requires team members with experience, passion and a desire to deliver excellence in everything we do,” said Simon Crawford-Welch, DRI’s President & Chief Operating Officer. “Joel’s engagement is another step toward a dominant global hospitality brand that will set higher industry standards in sales, marketing, resort operations and customer service worldwide.”

Lazar has served on the American Resort Development Association's (ARDA) Board of Directors and as chairperson of the ARDA Membership Committee. Lazar has been frequently interviewed by and quoted in major industry and consumer publications, and is a much sought after speaker at industry events.

Diamond Resorts International®, based in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest vacation ownership companies in the world with more than 110 branded and affiliated resorts in 14 countries with destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to its more than 360,000 owners and members through the branded service of more than 5,500 team members worldwide, Diamond Resorts International® is dedicated to providing its guests with effortless and relaxing vacation experiences every time, for a lifetime.

For more information, please visit DiamondResorts.com


Linkback - Press Release June 20th, 2008
]]> 6/20/2008 7:43:43 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4596 4596
Linkback - wesellyourtimeshare.com
]]> 6/19/2008 8:35:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4595 4595
What is your background in the timeshare industry?

I started in the industry as a total "green-pea" out of necessity in 1998 as the Owner Referral Manager at a timeshare resort in Orlando. I earned my Florida Real Estate License in 1999 and for the next 6 years, I was a salesperson, a sales manager and the manager of the trial program at a few resorts around town before deciding to dedicate myself to educating people about timeshare.

Are timeshares the right choice for seasoned travelers? Do they lock you down to a single destination year after year?

Timeshares can be a wonderful way to vacation for seasoned as well as novice travelers. Seasoned travelers will enjoy the large range of vacation opportunities around the world, while novice travelers will enjoy the security of having a vacation home that they can return to year after year. With more than 5,800 timeshare resorts worldwide, ranging from quaint cottages to high-rise beachfront condos, there truly is something for everyone with timeshare. However, it is important to know what you want ahead of time so that you don't get stuck with something that is not valuable or useful to you.

What do you think of the new trend of fractional home ownership?

Fractional home ownership is great for some people. For the traditional timeshare owner however, it can be cost prohibitive. Timeshares are generally sold in one-week increments; and while it is true that some owners own several weeks, fractional home ownership is traditionally 4+ weeks a year. If you don't use all of your fractional home ownership, you may be stuck with having to find renters to offset your costs. Vacations should be fun, not work!

What are some tips to insure you don't get scammed by a too-good-to-sound-true timeshare offer?

Well, first of all, let's differentiate between a "too good to be true" vacation offer that includes a timeshare presentation, and a "too good to be true" timeshare." Timeshares are still marketed circa 1975. You get a call, fax, e-mail or direct mail piece, or worse yet, are accosted on the beach or coming out of a restaurant, with offers ranging from discounted hotel stays, free or greatly reduced attraction tickets, dinner show certificates or some other "catch."

Rest assured every single one of those offers is designed with one goal in mind...to get you to a timeshare resort and in front of a salesperson whose mission it is to sell you a timeshare. Are these "too good to be true?" Yes and no. No, in that they are what they are. After the timeshare sales pitch, you will get what you were promised. Thankfully, the days of being promised a "boat" and getting a 4' long inflatable 2-person raft have gone by the wayside. You have to ask yourself, though, if sitting through a sometimes high pressure timeshare pitch is worth whatever you are getting when you factor in that in most cases, you're talking about 4+ hours of your valuable vacation time spent at the resort, listening to a pitch and commuting back and forth.

Now, the timeshares themselves...are they "too good to be true?" Understand that the easiest definition of timeshare is the difference between renting your vacation accommodations and owning them. There are differences of course between fixed weeks, floating weeks and points, seasons, locations, etc. I advise my clients at Timeshare Insights to do their homework ahead of time and to stay away from any salesperson or sales manager who uses one of more of these words, "FREE, PERFECT, ALWAYS and/or NEVER." Free and perfect don't exist and always and never are very long times!

How difficult are timeshares to sell?

It's not so much, "are they difficult to sell?", it's "what can you get for them"? In 2007, the average price of a 2-bedroom timeshare worldwide was approximately $18,000. If you were to sell that same timeshare today, you couldn't expect to get more than half of that.

How well do timeshares fare as real estate investments?

In a word, lousy. Don't think of timeshares as real estate investments, rather as an investment in your future vacations. Timeshares are not "Donald-Trump-type real estate."

What are the top 5 secrets timeshare companies don't want you to know?

The average price of a timeshare. Last year, the average price of a 2-bedroom timeshare was around $18,000, but the resorts don't like to advertise this. I think its imperative for consumers to know the average price in order to make wise choices.

"Red Time" is not always "Red Time." In timeshare, "red time" is the terminology used to designate high demand time. Certain places, such as Orlando, Las Vegas and Hawaii are designated as high demand, year round. While it is true that Orlando may still be busier in January than the Wisconsin Dells are in July, if you own a January week in Orlando, it does not have the same trading power as July week in Orlando.

Almost everything is negotiable. When it comes to money, you have to remember to figure in the cost of the timeshare itself, the annual maintanance fees, real estate taxes, closing costs, upgrade fees, membership fees, exchange or trading fees, special assessments and so on and so on. If you're going to be spending $18,000 at a resort, you better ask what they can throw in. If you don't ask, you don't get. You should also ask if the price itself is negotiable. Back in the days when I was a timeshare salesperson, I was stunned at how few people actually asked for a lower price. It's the same as paying "sticker price" at a car dealership!

You don't have to buy it "today." Here's one of the reasons the timeshare industry has such a negative reputation. The salesperson and then the sales manager try to get you to part with your money by insisting that the price will be much higher tomorrow, so you had better buy it today. While it is true that some very legitimate timeshare resorts offer what is called a "First Visit Incentive," I doubt that any of those resorts would refuse to honor that first visit price if you came in the next day with a credit card. However, with due respect for my old profession, DON'T waste your time or insult the salesperson's intelligence by lying and saying "I'll be back tomorrow with the cash" when you both know that you don't have the cash and have no interest in buying the timeshare. The easiest way out is simply to say "No thanks, I can't afford it" or "No thanks, I'm not interested." Don't lie.

You do not have to sit through a timeshare presentation in order to buy a timeshare and you don't have to buy from the developer. Again, this is where the industry gets a bad name. I can't think of any other product or service where you have to be bribed with offers and then sit and listen to a salesperson before being "allowed" to purchase the product. You are free to visit any timeshare resort in the world and ask to see the property and get some prices without a sales pitch. If they try to get you to a pitch, WALK OUT. On the other hand, you don't have to purchase a timeshare from the developer at all. There are ways to purchase a timeshare at significantly less than that $18,000 average. The trick is to know who to deal with. Again, that's where working with an independent firm such as Timeshare Insights becomes valuable. We don't financially benefit if you purchase a timeshare or not, but we can guide you through the murky waters.

Is it possible to get a timeshare in some off-the-beaten-road places? Southeast Asia? Eastern Europe? South America? If so, what resources would you recommend?

Yes, there are more than 5,800 timeshares worldwide. You are more likely to find them in places that attract lots of travelers, so you probably won't find any in Vietnam right now, but may find some there in 10 years as global tourism there increases. For instance, if the current trend continues, Dubai will have more timeshares there in 10 years than Orlando! There are pros and cons of buying timeshare out of the country. The most obvious con is if the contract is written in a language that you are not fluent in. If you don't understand exactly what you are buying, then don't!

http://www.gadling.com/2008/06/18/talking-travel-confessions-of-a-ex-time-share-hawk/

Linkback - Lisa Schreier-Timeshare Vacations For Dummies
]]> 6/19/2008 7:05:08 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4594 4594
Ex-Google employee David Friedberg, who established WeatherBill last year, has signed a deal with online travel portal Priceline and is looking to work with UK travel companies.

Its 'sunshine guarantee' for Priceline refunds 100% of the airfare, hotel and car rental if it rains more than 0.5 inches per day on half or more of the holiday. This is valid during the summer months in about 100 destinations.

Priceline.com chief marketing officer said customers would not have to pay any extra for their trip."These sunshine guaranteed vacations are available at the same prices we offer for all our packages. Our there's a silver lining if mother nature doesn't co-operate."

Priceline pays WeatherBill a fee for each holiday booked, probability of rain in that area. If a holiday is rained out, WeatherBill willautomatically refund the entire cost of the trip.

Founded in San Francisco, WeatherBill has opened an to strike deals with major travel companies to expand its service in the UK.

WeatherBill Europe managing director Jens Boening said: "Weather risk management has been used by large insurance companies for a while, but we want to take it mass market. We are offering this and similar services to agents and operators of all sizes in the UK.

"The travel industry is very competitive with many people selling the same destinations for similar prices. Offering a weather guarantee can really differentiate you from the competition."

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/06/18/27923/weather-insurance-company-targets-uk-trade.html



Linkback - Weather insurance company targets UK trade
]]> 6/19/2008 7:00:30 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4593 4593
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has upgradedits advice over the threat of terrorism in the United Arab Emirates from general to high.

A FCO spokesman said the decision to change the warning to its most serious has happened after new evidence came to light indicating the increased potential for problems.

The advice covers the whole of the UAE, including the holiday hotspots of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

It reads: “Attacks could be indiscriminate and could happen at any time, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers such as residential compounds, military, oil, transport and aviation interests.

“You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places.”

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/06/18/27929/fco-warns-of-increased-threat-of-terrorism-in-the-uae.html

Linkback - FCO warns increased threat of terrorism in the UAE
]]> 6/19/2008 6:59:30 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4592 4592
Linkback - How to deal with pushy rep &sales person
]]> 6/18/2008 10:09:23 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4591 4591
Have been back a few days from my 3 weeks holiday in Gran Anfi so thought it was time to do a 'wee' report. Now i know that GA isn't in Interval but its sister Monte Anfi is and its next door. The Anfi resorts are just magic - everyone knows by now how much i love it there as have been going to Monte for the past 8 years. Its not for everyone as some folk may find it too large, especially if you enjoy small more intimate resorts. But i feel real at home there, plenty of eating places near and its very safe to walk around.

I still think its handy to hire a car when going to Anfi as a taxi to the resort now costs 48 euros each way, but there is a good bus service once you get to the resort which i was told is very efficient. There is also a boat you can get to Mogan from the local eMarina which is very popular especially on market day. We found having the car handy as used it in the evenings as would go and eat at Playa del Ingles, it was also useful for doing shopping outwith anfi where the prices are over inflated.

There has been much talk about increase of prices in the UK but its nothing compared to how the prices have shot up in the past couple of years in the anfi shops and restaurants. They have a captive audience and the local shops are very very expensive. If you go just a fifteen minute walk to Arguineguin there is a new Spar (as big as our Tesco) where the prices are at least 40% cheaper. They have a large fresh meat counter and fresh fish counter where you get a ticket out of an electronic machine and wait for your number to appear on a screen for getting served. I watched in amusement one day as two spanish women nearly came to blows when someone with NO TICKET got served before them, it seems that shop rage happens everywhere.

The soft drinks were so much cheaper in there, my coke zero was 49cents and 99cents in anfi. Nicks smirnoff ice 1-35 and 2-99 in Anfi If you are staying at Anfi with a family and have no car then its definately worth getting a taxi as only a couple of euro's. The restaurants are also very expensive, we went to a newly opened Indian one night where we had one main course each, shared a rice, shared a naam bread, one sparkling water, one beer and it came to 51 euros. Many holidaymakers were going into Peurto Rico but we don't like it there so would drive to Playa del Ingles where we have some favourite restaurants we enjoy going to. When Nick left and i was alone i didn't bother eating out (apart from twice when asked by folk i had met around the pool) i was quite happy staying in (as didn't get back to apartment till 8-30pm) eating a sarnie and watching the tv.

The owner who built these resorts died 2 years ago and his son took over, he has been doing loads of maintenance everywhere being painted. The pools have all been revamped, with new non slip tiles being installed - they were doing Peurto Anfi (which is underneath Monte while we were there) All the grounds were in best condition and i seen and i have never seen the flowers looking so lovely. The heart shaped island next to the marina was just bursting with colour and we had a walk around it every day, often getting ourselves a take away roll and drink and would have a 'wee' picnic while watching the world go by.

There is not much difference between the resorts, the newer ones such as Gran Anfi and Tauro have more up to date furnishings but thats about it. We took a drive out to their latest addition Taura and went in past the reception to see if we could have a look at their rooms. We had heard they are very modern and retro, but was informed you have to be accompanied by a REP and they gave us a room plan which made me smile. Its looks very posh and has lovely pools but it is in the middle of nowhere next to a golf course. The most telling thing was that there was not one holidaymaker to be seen, was like a ghost town, so i for one would hate to be stuck out there as its very isolated. Seemingly the Reps get members to change over to the points system by upgrading to Tauro (with the carrot of a big PGA golf tournament being held there next year so they could rent out their apartments) but the guests never stay there, instead they used their points to stay in Monte and Peurto as get more weeks that way - one week in Taura would get you 2 weeks in Monte. Not sure if this is a good idea as that means less availability for those who own weeks at these resorts and can't get into them; this has become a bone of contention amongst those who own weeks and those who own points.

This is the first time we have stayed in a one bed at GA and the apartment was lovely and spacious, kitchen had all the mod cons including dishwasher and washer/dryers. Living room has dining table and chairs plus a super comfy suite which converts into a sofa bed. Flat screen tv with BBC1,2,ITV, CH4, Sky One, childrens cartoon channel and movie channel, sky news etc. There is also a cd player but to my surprise no dvd player, so put that on my comments card. Large bedroom with huge king size bed, jacuzzi bath in the corner of bedroom surrounded by mirror and a super bathroom with power shower.
There is also a tv in the bedroom which was handy for me to watch while having my nightly jacuzzi. We had a lovely balcony with glass table and chairs for meals a la fresco.

Now even though i was staying at GA i still preferred sunbathing at MA (tell you why later on) so walked over there every day (only took about 5 mins) where it is so much quieter around the tiny toddlers pool. I was often the only person there till 11am and even at its busiest you were lucky to have more than 20 folk there. Most people with children preferred the bigger pools where they have slides and jacuzzi seats. By contrast GA was very very busy and you could not get a sunbed if you went out after 11am, due to Peurto pool being closed they had shifted most of the sunbeds to Gran Anfi and they were packed together like sardines in rows, sunbathed there on our first 2 days but i hated the enclosed feeling as like to have space to turn my bed around with the sun. Both resorts have hourly activities for those who get bored sitting around the pool, such as aqua aerobics, shooting, darts, archery, shuffle board, table tennis, water polo, petang and some others.

So all in all it was another lovely holiday, i was lucky that i bought a single when i went out and ended up staying for 3 weeks. Nick went back to work after 12 days then a week appeared with RCI, they would not let me book it as i owned there - which i thought was a silly rule as i made a quick email to our very own ex mod Ron and he booked it for me... yeah he does have a soft side - he just hides it well ;)
Was not sure how i would feel spending a week alone but after the first couple of days it was great - i would be up with the sun and read from 8am-11am then relax round the pool in heat of the day and then read again from 4-7pm before moving onto the reception terrace of Gran Anfi which got the evening sunshine and had Wi Fi which is super and handy as had my laptop with me. They keep saying it will be in the rooms but as yet this hasn't happened. The reception staff are lovely and would keep my laptop with them during the day to save me taking it back to the room, they got to know me so well that it would be waiting for me as they seen me arrive. There was also loads of books in their cupboard behind the sofa's which was great for avid readers as a large selection of old and new books which holidaymakers had left. I was saying to Nick today that i wish i was still there as no decisions to be made, your just cocooned in this artificial world, no stress just relaxation in the sunshine and reading round the pool. I ended up reading 16 books so my next posting will be about those.

If anyone gets a chance to go to Anfi then please do so, you can rent a week from fellow owners on http://anfiuk.co.uk/home.htm
This is always handy to know if you can't get a booking with Interval, or want to add an extra week onto a booking you've already made.

Hope i havn't bored you tooo much with this holiday report of sorts.
Loads of Love Mo xox[;)]

Linkback - Club Gran Anfi, Gran Canaria
]]> 6/18/2008 4:43:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4590 4590 I`m new to this can any one give my any info on world networking sales limited they have offered me a great price on my weeks but want a deposit are they ok or a scam ?Are there any reputable resellers out there ?
Brian

Linkback - world networking sales limited
]]> 6/17/2008 7:36:04 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4589 4589 Guess who it is:



More of the picture to be revealed daily.

The more that is shown the less the reward.

Today it is worth 5 points!



Linkback - Guess who it is - 16 June
]]> 6/16/2008 11:09:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4588 4588 A little arithmetic will tell you that you can join for 4 years followed by a further 2 years (ie 6 years) for less than you can join for 5.

This is a misleading sales pitch. I have rung to tell them about it only to be told that they already know. I have asked if they are going to change it but I did not get a definitive answer.
They are looking into it!
Whats to look into?

Linkback - Membership Costs
]]> 6/16/2008 10:50:27 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4587 4587
The firm, which operates 60 resorts in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Fiji, wants to convert the 35,000 square foot Barnes Bank building at 431 S. 300 E. into a 45-unit property containing one-, two- and three-bedroom units. The building was constructed in 1962 and has been used for offices since then; Barnes Bank has entered into an agreement to sell the structure to Wyndham for the urban timeshare project.

While company officials declined to comment, documents on file with the city indicate that planners feel the hotel "would add to the customer base of nearby restaurants, retail and public facilities, such as the library," and would "add to the vibrancy of an urban setting by bringing in visitors."

Wyndham's application indicates the resort would have a 90 percent or more minimum annual occupancy, translating into approximately $3.2 million spent each year at local shops, restaurants and recreation-oriented retailers. The facility would create 20 to 25 full-time jobs, although it would not include a restaurant, lounge, swimming pool or other similar amenities.

Wyndham Resort Development Corp. already has four properties in Utah - Bear Lake, Midway, St. George and Wolf Creek in Eden.

http://www.redorbit.com/news/science/1434051/wyndam_to_seek_rezone_to_convert_bank_building_into_timeshare/


Linkback - Convert Bank Building into Timeshare Hotel
]]> 6/16/2008 6:54:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4586 4586
More specifically, owners of Apple's media devices can hook them up to the planes' in-flight entertainment systems; they can navigate through music and video on the seat back televisions while charging the devices in the process. The connectivity technology has been manufactured by Panasonic Avionics.

United is the first U.S. carrier to provide this service, it said in a statement. Late in 2006, iPod manufacturer Apple announced that it had struck a deal with the airline--as well as fellow domestic carriers Continental and Delta, as well as overseas carriers Air France, Emirates, and KLM--to configure in-flight iPod connectivity.

For United, the iPod cables won't be everywhere immediately. For the most part, they'll be installed on planes that make transatlantic flights, and in some cases will be restricted to those with first- and business-class seats. The first "iPod flight," United 936, will take off at 5:40 PM EDT on Monday in Washington, D.C., and fly to Zurich, Switzerland.

So, D.C.-to-Zurich pond hoppers: you can can now watch Snakes on a Plane on a plane (on an iPod, without draining your battery).

http://crave.cnet.com/8301-1_105-9969405-1.html


Linkback - $15 to check a bag, but free to charge an iPod
]]> 6/16/2008 6:52:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4585 4585
Any advice?

Linkback - Resale company asking for my credit card details
]]> 6/15/2008 7:25:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4584 4584
Holidaymakers booked on cruises and package tours face demands of up to £600 in addition to the original cost of the break, an investigation by The Sunday Telegraph has found.

Trips to Europe are among the worst-hit by the surcharges which, in many cases, have been imposed months after customers settled the bill.

The largest surcharge was imposed on families booked on trips to Iceland and Sicily, with Cox & Kings Travel. A family of four now has to pay an extra £600, in addition to the £6,000 cost of the trip.

Travellers with Noble Caledonia on a nine-night cruise to see the midnight sun in Greenland must pay £420 more for four people, on top of the £11,500 already paid.

Passengers on a 14-night cruise to the Norwegian fjords with Swan Hellenic have to pay £450 extra for four people, in addition to £14,560 already paid.

A total of 29 travel companies have now applied to the Association of British Travel Agents (Abta) to impose surcharges on customers. One company, All Leisure Holidays Group, trades as both Voyages of Discovery and Swan Hellenic, taking the number of affected providers to 30.

The operators claim that they have been caught out by a sudden weakening of the pound against the euro, coupled with rising fuel costs. They say they have no alternative but to turn to the small print in contracts and go back to customers for more money. Even holidays outside the eurozone, including to Iceland and Egypt, have faced currency#8209;related surcharges because travel companies tend to pay one another in euros.

Lorna Cowan, the editor of Which? Holiday, said: "People are already on tight budgets these days but they still push the boat out to go on a well deserved holiday. For them to be presented with a bill for all this extra money could push costs over the edge. If prices go down do we get our money back? Of course not – it's unheard of."

Under Abta rules, tour operators must absorb costs equal to 2 per cent of the holiday price before they impose extra charges. Beyond this, they are free to demand fees equivalent to 10 per cent of the holiday, but not within 30 days of departure.

Larger travel companies, such as Thomson and First Choice, have so far avoided surcharges, but higher fuel costs have now led both to charge a supplement of up to £40 per person on a return flight for bookings made from last month.

A spokesman for Cox & Kings Travel said the company had booked the trips months in advance in euros and was now facing a financial loss.

Roger Allard, the chairman of All Leisure Holidays Group, said: "We are not proud of the surcharges but these are challenging times."

A spokesman for Noble Caledonia said it had absorbed fuel cost increases but could not cope with currency fluctuations as well.

The surcharges on European destinations come as Abta disclosed that more people are travelling to non#8209;euro countries to make the most out of their pounds.

Bookings for trips to America this summer were up by 13 per cent, while holidays to Turkey and north Africa increased by 3 per cent. Holidays to France and Spain were down 3 per cent.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/familyholidays/2130566/Families-on-holidays-hit-by-high-surcharges.html


Linkback - Family holidays hit by high surcharges
]]> 6/15/2008 4:55:29 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4583 4583
Bluegreen, which did not disclose how much it is paying in the deal, will also open a sales office at the resort. The company expects to launch its sales operation in the third quarter of 2008.

The 15 people employed by Club La Pension will be retained.

Club La Pension was previously operated by Club La Pension Inc.

http://www.nola.com/business/index.ssf/2008/06/bluegreen_corp_to_begin_operat.html


Linkback - Bluegreen Corp. to operate French 1/4 timeshare
]]> 6/15/2008 4:53:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4582 4582
Linkback - Greystone leisure
]]> 6/14/2008 5:23:14 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4581 4581
This must be an operator building its own database of potential customers for a "we can get your money back" scam - or perhaps an enterprising person getting information which they can sell.

Company name given as Tauceflor SL which the poster has identified as a car repairer in Playa de las Americas. An obliging accommodation address?

Has anyone else been approached? It looks to be a brand new one.

Linkback - Scam questionnaire from Tenerife
]]> 6/13/2008 6:52:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4580 4580
Linkback - parker&co
]]> 6/13/2008 6:42:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4579 4579
An interesting news article has been brought to my attention about people selling Timeshare as a financial investment.

Read the following Mirror article for more information:

http://blogs.mirror.co.uk/investigations/2008/06/holidaymakers-lose-out-in-bob.html




Linkback - Tenerife Timeshare as an Investment?
]]> 6/13/2008 6:39:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4578 4578
Linkback - Points for sale 60(00)
]]> 6/13/2008 3:02:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4577 4577 INDUSTRY VETERAN APPOINTED VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING, WESTERN REGION FOR DIAMOND RESORTS INTERNATIONAL®

Las Vegas, Nev. - June 12th, 2008 -- Diamond Resorts International® (DRI), a global leader in the hospitality industry, has appointed Brad H. Benson as Vice President, Marketing, Western Region for DRI. Benson’s nearly 20-year span of industry experience will guide marketing initiatives for all DRI’s western operations including key destinations in Hawaii, California, Nevada, New Mexico and Arizona. Benson’s appointment supports DRI’s quest to build an innovative, dynamic and experienced global marketing team led by vacation ownership marketing expert, James R. Danz ("Jim"), DRI’s Chief Marketing Officer.

“Brad epitomizes DRI’s theme of ‘DRIven(SM) to Excellence’ as demonstrated by his impressive track record, commitment to success, proven leadership skills, and a desire to dominate the marketplace,” says Jim Danz, “His background and operational philosophy fit well into our brand tenets of simplicity, choice and comfort.”

Benson has held senior marketing positions at Wyndham Vacation Ownership (Fairfield), The Shell Group, Hilton Grand Vacations Company, Vacation Internationale and most recently as Project Director - Marketing for Marriott Vacation Club International’s Grand Chateau in Las Vegas. Benson was a winner of the prestigious Gold “ARDY” for prospect generation during his tenure at Hilton Grand Vacations Company and he is involved with teaching a course on timeshare marketing at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, William F. Harrah College of Hotel Administration.

“It is encouraging to see many of the industry’s most well respected and proven professionals actively pursuing DRI to be a part of our team,” said Simon Crawford-Welch, DRI’s President & Chief Operating Officer. “Since acquiring this company in April of 2007, we have been gradually and systematically building a world-class organization across all functional areas of the company. Brad’s addition to our marketing team is one more step that allows us to lead the pack, execute innovative marketing programs and generate hundreds of thousands of cost effective tours on a global scale.”

Diamond Resorts International®, based in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest vacation ownership companies in the world with more than 110 branded and affiliated resorts in 14 countries with destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to its more than 360,000 owners and members through the branded service of more than 5,500 team members worldwide, Diamond Resorts International® is dedicated to providing its guests with effortless and relaxing vacation experiences every time, for a lifetime.

Linkback - Press Release June 12th, 2008
]]> 6/13/2008 7:50:01 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4576 4576
There aren't many tough decisions for holidaymakers in Tenerife's Playa de las Americas. Sangria or cerveza?

Factor 25 or 50 maybe?

But some Brits are being asked to make major decisions about their financial future - no wonder some get burned.

Among them is Lynne, a holidaymaker from Essex, who went to a {banned word/phrase} presentation hoping to off-load some timeshare slots she no longer wanted.

Lynne claims a salesman told her he could take the unwanted weeks in part exchange for a portfolio of {banned word/phrase} weeks - and that she would be able to resell them within a year for a 15 per cent profit.

Two years and not one sniff of a sale later, Lynne got a partial refund but had lost more than £2,500 along with her own weeks valued at £3,500.

The {banned word/phrase} Group was founded by Bob Trotta in the 80s in Tenerife and now spans the globe from Dubai to the Caribbean.

According to his website, Trotta is a "true pioneer and visionary" who brought timeshare to Europe.

The group claims to have sold more than £250 million worth of timeshare - but we have seen numerous complaints from dissatisfied customers who have lost money after investing in them.

Sandy Grey of the Timeshare Consumers Association tells us that most complaints are about "hard sell" tactics by {banned word/phrase} salesmen.

Other buyers say they were not told exactly what they were buying and what it was likely to earn them... if anything.

Timeshare's not exactly the hot product it was 20 years ago and the resale market is awash with unwanted weeks.

Yet some Resort Property investors claim they were sold on promises of big profits within 12 months.

They also claim they weren't warned how the annual maintenance fees on each week would rocket. The annual fees at the Beverly Hills Club have risen 52 per cent in six years to £330, while those at the Palm Beach Club are up 83 per cent to £326.

Inflation in Spain over the same period was 18 per cent. Lynne, who has asked us to withhold her surname, said: "I was originally tempted into this because I was an unhappy owner of several weeks of timeshare. I still have that around my neck along with an annual maintenance bill of over £1,000." All in, Lynne reckons she lost at least £11,500 but says the true cost was on her emotional and physical health.

"At the time, it wrecked my life," she said. "That for me was the real loss. The time and effort and stress were almost unreal."

{banned word/phrase} wouldn't comment on individual cases but a spokesman told us: "We are not in the business of misleading clients and take complaints seriously."

Trotta has a townhouse in Chelsea, west London, but according to his housekeeper, mainly lives at his villa in Tuscany.

We couldn't speak to the man himself, but here's what he says on his website: "Ultimately, our success depends on the satisfaction of our customers.

"Regardless of the product we are selling, we believe in delivering what we promise to our clients." Then do it.

At the time, it wrecked my life.

The effort and stress have been almost unreal

Full story : http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/topstories/2008/06/12/investigate-deal-s-a-hol-lot-of-grief-89520-20603943/

Linkback - Timeshare Resort - Property Caused Grief
]]> 6/12/2008 2:06:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4575 4575 Then there was what I can only describe as an admittance to the members of what DRI had inherited.
He spoke of The Former Company as a company who had been demonised, were virtually broke and had totally mismanaged things. They had taken good money from the membership and given nothing tangible back in its place.
He pledged that DRI would treat the membership differently. He pledged that DRI would not only be keeping the resorts in Europe but would be enhancing them.
He then jumped away to say that abuse of employees had taken place with foul and obscene language and that things had been written on the internet which were without foundation and were being looked upon and acted upon as libelous. He warned the floor that should any such verbal occurences take place at the meeting then the perpetrators would be ejected and probably have their membership suspended or even be banned from The Club.
Having said that he got back into the pledge on the European Resorts and said that DRI were actively looking for new locations in Europe. Capital cities were mentioned. London, Rome, Paris. He then moved on to DRIs efforts to make the club more flexible and stated that there would be £25 million invested in refurbishments of European resorts this year. They were speeding up refurbs and also working on increasing occupancy in off peak times.
They were looking at revamping the Premier Club to make it worthwhile joining.
All these things were in line with the memberships views and in addition also in line with the views they were looking at Resales.

He then moved on to the supplementary levy.
Highlighting what the result of failing to charge the levy would mean.
Reducing services, temporary closure of resorts. These were dismissed as not beneficial to members and a deferral of refurbs was also dismissed as an option in that it would simply delay progress.

He then spoke re the view of some on hedge purchasing of Euros, saying it was not possible as at the time the exchange rate was going negative the management funds were at their lowest and that even in January not all members paid their fees but it was imputted over many months by a lot of members. They did forward purchase euros and had in fact got an agreement for the rest of this year at 1.28 when the current rate is 1.25.
He also stated at this point that the fixed and floating weeks owners were also being billed a supplementary levy pro rata.
He closed by stating that the levy consisted of £45 for the extra benefits created and the rest was down to the exchange rate.

Susan Gomercic Bajtex was then invited to give a presentation on the state of the resorts and progress.
She showed charts of resorts performances as assessed by members via the resort cards we fill in and asked for more imput, be it positive or negative. A list of Resort Standards as assessed by Interval was then shown.
DRI also had their standards and were trying hard to get from 80 something percent to 90%
She stated that in 2007 there had been 139 total refurbs which equalled 15.6 % of the apartments. These had been refurbed to The Former Company Standard. By the end of 2008 a further 149 total refurbs were aimed at, to the enhanced DRI Standard.
As well as duvets and pillows there was a program of bed replacements too.
1O41 Flat Screen TVs had been installed and Air Conditioning was either being upgraded or installed where needed.
Much Fire Prevention work was going on in the Canaries. "It is not particularly noticable on the surface to members but it is happening."
On the disabilities front pool hoists were now in most resorts and those still in need of a hoist would be got to as soon as possible.
She closed by apologising for the TV situation re Sky which is illegal and poor reception in the Canaries but said we had as many stations as possible but a Diamond Station was being created.
We were then shown a slide show, lasting 6.5 mins, of refurbs at various resorts.
Marty then spoke briefly and said that the recently announced benefits would show their true value to the membership when used in conjunction with other things such as the new flexibility re bookings.
The Italian resort was being doubled in size as a further 18 apartments were being built, paid for and owned by DRI.
Other places being looked into included Prague, The Greek Islands and Eastern Europe.


Next Sarah Hulme spoke with a presentation on what was currently being worked on to enhance our understanding and to get best use out of the products,
Listing
Membership workshops in understanding how best to use points.

A manual helping this understanding.

More surveys for members to participate in with thoughts and ideas.

And more education on Globalisation ie. making the experience the same for all around the globe.

Question time.
To a question from the floor it was explained that Carlton Court did not belong to the Club it belonged to DRI the company, the club though, through usage was responsible for its upkeep via management fees but as its usage by members was only between 35 and 40% and it was costly on points because of its high maintenance costs and it was not representing value for the members. It has yet to be sold.

Another question was whether a book could be produced on resorts and their surrounding places of interest etc.
This was currently being looked at as to its feasibility.
The other questions from the floor were either personal holiday experiences like "why was I not told the pools and play areas at Los Amigos were closed at the time I holidayed there?"
The one question that was posed a number of times in various guises was about the Interval Gold membership and the lack of member consultation. It being variously described as an imposition and an unwanted benefit or an additional cost without agreement.
Muted applause came from some questions but by far the greatest applause came for a gentleman who stated that he and his wife had been members for only 3 years but had experienced nothing but excellence in all resorts and could not speak highly enough about their points and the value they give them.


* All edits are via the courtesy of my proof reader Sue Masters [:)]

Linkback - Observations from 2008 AGM
]]> 6/11/2008 8:08:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4574 4574 Cheers

Linkback - resale scam is this one
]]> 6/11/2008 5:44:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4573 4573
Also I have read that some timeshares subscribe to a fund in Malta that in the event of mis-sales or mis representation proven you are refunded from this pool with the time share company having to make up the difference if they wish to be allowed to continue to trade? Have you heard of this scheme and how do you go about using it if it exists?
How strong is trading standards to help fight a case?
How strong are MEPs to use ?
Alternatives ?

Linkback - Golden sands /island residence club Malta
]]> 6/11/2008 4:14:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4572 4572 They are having presentations over the next 2 days (where ever they are). I will expect a phone call tomorrow from their sales team. It was a lady called Lauren who rang and I seem to remember that name from other topics - who knows -

Anyone else heard of them?

Andypat

Linkback - Planet Vacations???
]]> 6/11/2008 12:30:14 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4571 4571
Linkback - Real escape
]]> 6/11/2008 11:05:29 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4570 4570
So far this year, 15 airlines have folded - more are expected to follow
Last week, the dire state of the world's aviation industry was laid bare by its global body, the International Air Transport Association (IATA). In no uncertain terms, its director-general and chief executive, Giovanni Bisignani, painted a grim picture of the tough conditions facing airlines, describing them as a "perfect storm".

"The situation is desperate," he declared, "and potentially more destructive than our recent battles with all the Horsemen of the Apocalypse combined.

"Just as we started to recover [from 9/11] we face another crisis of potentially even greater dimensions – rocketing oil prices are changing everything."

It seems that after a golden decade of low prices, the era of cheap holidays could be over. The era of cheap airlines is certainly over, at least for now.

The rising cost of fuel is the main culprit. Fuel accounts for between 30 and 50 per cent of airlines' operational costs and since the start of 2007 the price of jet kerosene has more than doubled. Virgin Atlantic's fuel bill has quadrupled since 1995 to more than £1 billion, while British Airways estimates its fuel bill will rise £450 million to £2.5 billion for 2008/09 – a 20 per cent rise on the previous year.

Until now, the travelling public has been largely shielded from these fuel rises by competition between airlines and their efforts to cut costs by grounding aircraft and improving efficiencies. Strong customer demand for flights has also helped to keep fares down – but this effect looks likely to disappear as the economic squeeze starts to tighten.

Not surprisingly, many airlines are now trying to claw back as much money as they dare from passengers through extra charges and fuel supplements. British Airways increased fuel surcharges on Tuesday, up to £60 per return flight. This takes the total cost of supplements on routes of more than nine hours to £109 one way and £218 return.

Virgin Airways has also upped its charges, but is splitting them so that economy passengers pay less than those in its premium classes. On flights of less than nine hours, for example, economy passengers pay fuel surcharges of £111 return, while Upper Class customers pay £171; on flights of more than nine hours, the extra charge is £167 and £215 respectively.

This makes the few pounds that no-frills operators charge for telephone booking or priority boarding look like chicken feed.

But what of these no-frills specialists, notably Ryanair and easyJet, that pride themselves on their refusal to introduce fuel charges?

Alan Bowen, an aviation expert, observes: "There's more than one way to skin a rabbit. These airlines don't have fuel levies, but they are increasing the number of 'auxiliary' charges, and raising them aggressively."

Various new "taxes" are also being mooted – paying to sit by a window, for example. Many believe scheduled airlines will also eventually have to start making similar supplementary charges as standard – £20 for a bag, £10 for a meal, say.

Chris Tarry, an independent aviation analyst, believes the airline industry will not escape this turbulent patch until at least 2010 or 2011 unless airline seats are taken out of the market. "It's scary. It's a case of hang on tight for the bumpy ride – it's going to be really tough," says Tarry.

International Passenger Protection, a UK-based company that provides financial failure insurance to the travel industry and monitors airlines around the world, agrees. As its managing director, Brian McLean, says: "We started in 1990 so have been through both Gulf wars, the SARS crisis and 9/11, which was the biggest – but the situation now has surpassed all the losses that occurred then with airlines."

Many observers say it is even worse than the dark days after September 11, 2001. That bleak period left many airlines on the brink of bankruptcy – a scenario repeating itself now. The only difference is that this time, more companies are crashing over the edge and going out of business as the economic squeeze means there are fewer investors prepared to ride to the rescue with a financial lifeline.

So far this year 15 airlines have ceased flying (see table below) – the highest number in such a short space of time that anyone can remember. The past week has seen the business-class carrier Silverjet ground its planes, hot on the heels of the failure of the only other two business-only airlines flying from the UK, Eos and Maxjet.

But there has been a string of other casualties too, including the Isle of Man airline EuroManx, the no-frills long-haul player Oasis Hong Kong Airlines and the South African company Nationwide Airlines. For them to fail in the run-up to the busy summer season, when airline balance sheets are normally bolstered by advance bookings, underlines the seriousness of the situation.

More look set to follow and McLean says he is watching four to five airlines that "could go" at any time. He is not alone. Virgin's Sir Richard Branson predicts that "one or more major US carriers will go out of business this year", while Ryanair's chief executive, Michael O'Leary, forecasts that only five European carriers could survive (or make a profit during) prolonged market turbulence (BA, easyJet, Ryanair, Air France and Lufthansa).

On Thursday, Continental, the US airline, announced 6,000 job losses and the grounding of 60 planes.

Customers be warned: pay for any airfares with credit cards to ensure that, if your chosen airline goes into financial freefall, it doesn't take your cash with it.

The low-cost airlines are probably safer than most. Fuel costs may have risen, but other revenue has grown along with the number of passengers boarding their planes. This reflects the belief in aviation circles that if anyone can come through these tough times, easyJet and Ryanair can. In fact, in previous market downturns, budget airlines are the ones to have benefited as travellers traded down from more traditional companies. These carriers' lower operating costs and newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft also help them to keep spending under control.

"The low-fares model has definitely proved to be the most robust and Ryanair and easyJet are riding out the storm better than the high-cost legacy carriers," says Tim Jeans, managing director of the charter and scheduled carrier Monarch Airlines. Indeed, this week Ryanair chalked up record-breaking annual results, with profits topping £380 million, although analysts warn that
higher costs might force it to ground up to 20 aircraft this winter and wipe out any profits during the current financial year.

So what can we expect in the way of airfare increases? Jeans estimates that so far, fares have risen by around six per cent and if oil prices continue on their upward curve, they could jump by 10 or 12 per cent. If this happens, it is the longest routes that will bear the brunt of the increases, bringing to an end the era of low-cost long-haul flying.

As the less profitable winter season approaches, airlines are already battening down the hatches and wielding the axe on parts of their business not pulling in enough money. The set of new routes that usually sprouts each autumn will be strictly pruned as airlines cut their networks to survive. Once this happens, they may find it easier to start raising fares.

It isn't just the airlines that will be forced to raise prices. The package-holiday market is groaning under the weight of increased fuel costs and the "euro effect", which has seen the traditional holiday playgrounds of Spain and Greece become more expensive after a 20 per cent rise in the value of the European currency.

As our consumer editor, Sophie Butler, reported recently, with the pound tumbling against the euro, some tour operators are having to redo their sums and charge customers extra to help plug the gaps. So far, around 26 tour operators, including Bales Worldwide, All Leisure Holidays and Discover the World, have contacted clients to ask for more money after deciding to surcharge. More may follow.

Some companies have escaped the worst effects of rising costs by "hedging" – buying currency and/or fuel in advance – and have been able to keep prices at their original levels. But this means the worst is yet to come next year when these measures run out and the real pain of the strong euro and costly fuel kicks in. Then, tour operators will have no choice but to raise brochure prices.

Some analysts predict customers will face a "poison chalice" of at least £200 million as operators pass on these increased rates.

Mark Brumby, a leisure analyst at Blue Oar Securities, predicts that operators, led by the big two, Thomas Cook and Tui Travel, will have to put prices up "quite sharply" in their 2009 brochures. "There is a real risk of double-digit increases – maybe 10 per cent or 13 per cent," he says.

"Think of it from the consumer's view. In a few weeks, if they land at Malaga Airport and note how expensive everything has become, that will be fresh in their minds when the new brochures hit the doormat and they see increased prices.

"This may not be the end of cheap holidays, but it's going to be difficult."

The cruise crunch
The crisis in the travel industry has also hit the booming cruise market, although cruise companies have so far managed to avoid the sort of damaging headlines garnered by the airlines.

Yet prices are going up, and in an unprecedented (and little-publicised) move, more than 10 cruise lines have introduced surcharges to cover escalating fuel bills. These include Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, Costa Cruises, Ocean Village, Princess Cruises, Silversea Cruises and Crystal Cruises. P & O Cruises is charging passengers an extra £2.50 a day up to a maximum of £35 on cruises of 14 nights or less. On longer voyages, the £2.50 daily charge is capped at £50 per person and on world cruises and grand voyages it is capped at £100 per person.

Royal Caribbean International fuel supplements stand at £4 a day on the first two passengers in each cabin up to a maximum of £56. Additional guests in each cabin are charged £1.50 a day, to a maximum of £21.

The Passenger Shipping Association, the organisation to which most cruise lines belong, says its members have been forced to do this as a result of "global economic conditions". "Oil prices have doubled over the past year and this has had a significant effect on cruise lines, especially when you consider that they are both a means of transport and a floating hotel," says the PSA's assistant director, Andy Harmer.

Airlines that have ceased trading this year
Aloha Airlines Flew to Hawaii from US West Coast.
ATA Indianapolis-based low-cost airline.
Big Sky Airlines Montana-based regional carrier.
Coast Air Regional airline in Norway.
City Star Airlines Aberdeen-based carrier that flew routes in Scotland and to Norway.
Champion Air US charter carrier based in Minnesota.
Eos Business-class carrier Stansted-New York.
Far Eastern Air Transport Taiwan-based carrier.
Mihin Lanka Sri Lankan-based regional carrier.
Nationwide Airlines South African budget airline that flew between Gatwick and Johannesburg.
Oasis Budget carrier Hong Kong-Gatwick.
PanAm New Hampshire-based airline.
Silverjet Business-class airline that flew from Luton to New York and Dubai; may be saved.
Skybus US low-cost airline famous for its $10 fares.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travelnews/2087358/Cheap-holidays---is-this-really-the-end.html


Linkback - Cheap holidays - is this really the end
]]> 6/11/2008 5:40:18 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4569 4569
The timeshare industry is expected to reach new heights in the Middle East as increasing numbers of consumers in the region embrace the concept. With demand for timeshares on the rise, a number of major hospitality companies are launching new projects to capture a slice of this booming market.

The concept of timeshares has been around for more than 30 years in Europe and the US, but it is a relatively new industry in the Gulf.

A timeshare is the purchase of an increment of time - typically one week - at a resort, condominium, or luxury home, often with the option to exchange this time period to stay at other resorts worldwide.

These rights are sold to consumers either in perpetuity or for a set period of time, such as 20 or 30 years.

Currently, the Middle East holds less than 5% of the world's timeshare developments, but that figure is expected to grow rapidly.

One catalyst for this growth is the increasing number of standards that are being created to regulate the industry in the region.

New timeshare standards
In March, the Dubai government passed new regulations for vacation ownership, which include time sharing fractional ownership, private residence clubs, and destination clubs.

'Now there is a solid platform that will allow the industry to grow and prosper,' said David Clifton, Managing Director for Europe, Middle East & Africa at Interval International, a leading global vacation exchange company.

The regulations are aimed at giving timeshare consumers greater protections, and ensuring that developers take more responsibility for their projects.

For example, if a project is not delivered on time, the developer would be responsible for finding an equivalent hotel or resort for the guests to stay in. Previously, the property management company would have been held responsible.

Clifton acknowledges that timeshares used to have a poor reputation in Europe, where they were first launched in the 1960s.

Timeshares were often sold through unscrupulous promotional offers, leaving buyers unable to sell their units for anything near what they paid for them, let alone at a profit.

Since then a number of changes have taken place to enhance the credibility of the industry. 'For one thing, about 15 years ago the major hospitality companies recognized that this is going to become a mainstream hospitality product, which it has. With names like Disney, Four Seasons, and Marriott entering the business, these groups have brought an incredible amount of credibility to the industry,' he argues.

The industry is also benefiting from a desire to attract more end users into the real estate market. 'Dubai's real estate market has been fuelled by speculators, many of whom have come in and bought whole buildings, floors, etc. I think there is a real movement and interest by not only government but also developers to bring end users into the market. And that is exactly what vacation ownership does,' Clifton says.

Dubai drives growth
In terms of growth of the industry, the 'single most dramatic' global location will be the Middle East and Dubai in particular, Clifton says. The emirate's timeshare market could one day even rise to oust Florida from its number one position as the global leader in timeshare sales.

'We believe the timeshare market in Dubai will be number one, two, or three in the world in the not so distant future. We are seeing record numbers of new entrants getting ready to come into the business, and now that the regulatory platform is in place, you will see major announcements taking place over the next six to 12 months, and some have already taken place,' he predicts.

One of the most recent companies to announce a timeshare development in Dubai is Emaar Hospitality Group, a subsidiary of Emaar Properties, which plans to develop and operate a timeshare portfolio that will include serviced residences and custom-designed resorts in the emirate.

'The timeshare market in Dubai is poised for exponential growth with booming inbound tourists driving the demand for spacious accommodation that hotels cannot fully meet,' said Mohamed Ali Alabbar, chairman of Emaar Properties.

Emaar plans to expand its timeshare business to other countries in the region, where it is developing communities with hospitality and leisure components.

The locations would include Morocco, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, India, Turkey, Egypt and Indonesia.

Not to be outdone, Marriott International has signed an agreement with Al-Futtaim Group to launch Marriott Vacation Club, in Dubai Festival City, the first Marriott Vacation Club resort in the Middle East - and the largest outside North America.

J.W. Marriott Jr., Chairman and CEO of Marriott, hailed Dubai's efforts to develop regulations for the industry.

'Our experience from operating timeshare resorts worldwide shows good legislation fosters a healthy and robust business environment that benefits both developers and customers long-term. The government of Dubai is planning to introduce balanced legislation in line with global standards and we applaud and support its efforts,' Marriott said.

Meanwhile, the largest tourism development in the UAE, Dubailand, says it regards the development of timeshares as a key component in its business plan and has launched a special subsidiary - Dubailand Vacations ¬- to develop timeshares for its resorts.

http://www.ameinfo.com/159681.html



Linkback - Timeshare - Dubai
]]> 6/11/2008 5:28:05 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4568 4568
www.totstotravel.co.uk provides travel safety tips in recognition of Child Safety Week 23 – 29 June 2008

10 June 2008 – A survey conducted by child-friendly travel company www.totstotravel.co.uk found that 45.8% of parents felt they had to be more safety conscious on a holiday with young children than they would be at home. In addition, almost a quarter (24.9%) of the parents said that they had been on family holidays where no basic safety equipment or features were provided.

The 350 parents polled were asked to rank holiday safety features in order of importance. Enclosed swimming pools topped the list, followed by enclosed play spaces, stairgates, lifeguards, electric plug socket covers and baby monitors. Yet, of the holidays that parents had been on with young children, only 45.7% had enclosed swimming pools, 28.7% had stairgates and only 16.1% had electric plug socket covers.

Child safety will be put in the spotlight by the Child Accident and Prevention Trust (CAPT) during Child Safety Week running from 23 to 29 June 2008. While the emphasis of the CAPT campaign is on safety in and around the home, Tots to Travel wants to encourage parents to also be aware of the safety hazards they might face on holiday with young children.

“Most holiday properties are not designed with young children in mind. Parents go to great lengths to make their homes child-proof but the same precautions aren’t usually in place on a holiday,” explains Wendy Shand, founder of Tots to Travel. “This makes it incredibly hard for parents - who are usually in dire need of a real break - to actually relax. We’ve invested in CAPT training to ensure that all of our properties are vetted and kitted out with child safety in mind, but not all holidays companies have done the same.”

With the looming summer holidays, Tots to Travel offers these safety tips to parents travelling with young children:
• Call your holiday company and find out what safety features they have in place. Forewarned is forearmed.
• If the pool is unenclosed, request a room that doesn’t open directly onto it.
• Ask whether you can hire stairgates or a playpen.
• Take your own baby monitors and be sure to get an international travel adaptor.
• Take a roll of masking tape to stick over unused electric plug sockets.
• Ensure your children wear buoyancy aids at all times when in the pool area.
• Take a travel first aid kit with you.
• Opt for babysitting rather than baby listening services.

It was her own two year old son falling into an unenclosed swimming pool on holiday that prompted Shand to start up Tots to Travel. She provides holiday properties that let parents completely relax. All of the properties in the popular www.totstofrance.co.uk and www.totstoitaly.co.uk stables provide the basic child-related necessities, including safety elements, that parents take for granted at home. Stairgates, electric plugs socket covers, fully enclosed swimming pools, bed guards, baby monitors and non-slip bath mats are just some of the safety features the properties offer.

About Tots to Travel
Tots to Travel is the parent company of Tots to France (http://www.totstofrance.co.uk) and Tots to Italy (http://www.totstoitaly.co.uk).

Tots to France was set up by Wendy Shand, mum of two, in April 2006 as a holiday lettings agency with a range of family friendly properties throughout France. The company specialises in providing accommodation to meet the very specific needs of families with babies and young children. All properties are fully equipped with a range of child-related equipment and safety features. The company also provides English-speaking babysitters and home cooked meals.

The concept proved enormously successful, with the company now offering over 50 French properties. Building on this success, the award-winning formula has been replicated in Italy with the launch of Tots to Italy in January 2008. Roll outs for other countries like the UK, Spain, Ireland and the Balearic Islands are currently being planned.

Wendy Shand won the Mother@work Best Mumpreneur Award 2007, the Enterprisenation Home Business of the Year Award 2007 and the BT Essence of the Entrepreneur Award 2007.

Full Story: http://www.responsesource.com/releases/rel_display.php?relid=39510&hilite=

Linkback - lack of safety features-family friendly holidays
]]> 6/11/2008 5:19:29 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4567 4567

It's tims for some more sightings of Jam.

We have just had an email from DRI with links to the members area of the web site.

It introduces Diamond Selections.

Members of THE Club(SM) at Diamond Resorts International® may exchange their points for FLIGHTS; CRUISES; RESORTS & HOTELS; FEE PAYMENTS; GOLF, SPA & CITY; TRAVEL SERVICES and more…

It goes into much more detail of how your points can be exchanged for a Travel allowance ranging from 2,500 for £100 to 50,000 for £2,000 - and the same values apply to exchanging your points for a fee Allowance.

This is what many members have been asking for for some time - DRI seem to have responded positively.



Linkback - It's time for more Jam...
]]> 6/10/2008 10:26:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4566 4566
First post on here, but have spent an informative and educational hour reading up on lots of stuff I didn't know before as I'm trying to do some research on behalf of my parents.

They visited Fuengirolo (sp? sorry)(Los Amigos Beach Club) in November 1991 and bought one week (floating) which they could take anywhere in the world in "Blue Time" (I think this means out of school holidays). They used one week in 1992 when my Mum was 50 but thats it. Dad was made redundant very soon after and we had to resort to bread and dripping, so our only holidays were in the back garden with a sandpit....

Anyway, the cost of the sale was paid straight away (£5000) but no further maintenance has been paid as my parents wrote to the company to tell them their situation and to ask them to rent the week out on their behalf and use the money to pay for the maintenance costs.

Nothing has been heard since but just recently they've been contacted by a number of "companies" offering to sell their week for them on their behalf. After my Mum rang me and rather sheepishly told me that she had given the very nice girl her credit card details as she PROMISED she would sell it for them, I thought I'd better deal with it on their behalf.......!

Would anyone be able to give me their thoughts on whether Mum and Dad still own this week? They still have the deeds, but whether this means anything, I don't know.

Sorry for a long rambling post, but I'm so angry that Mum and Dad who have worked hard all their working lives have been scammed like this and I'd like to be able to put it to bed for them. If they do own it still - great - I'll start shipping them off to foreign climes to enjoy their retirement!

Thanks in advance to you experts.

[:D]

Linkback - Any advice for a new girl? - Thanks
]]> 6/10/2008 7:50:37 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4565 4565
It is a shame as it is the closest I have ever come to attending.

From what I read on TYG there are a number of them planning on attending to vocalise protests about the Levy.

I just wonder how much it will cost people in Time off and travel to go to the AGM?




Linkback - AGM
]]> 6/10/2008 7:07:18 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4564 4564
Linkback - 9000 Points free to a good home.
]]> 6/10/2008 5:14:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4563 4563
Don't know if I'm in the right place for asking this question but if not would appreciate guideance on where to go. In November 07 bought 3 weeks through a company called Exra Weeks, did try and cancel but was told it was too late. Anyway am now thinking of trying to book somewhere, am I wasting my time, can put up with going to 90 presentation as have no intention of buying anything but wondered if there is any point in trying to reserve something through "The gift company" or should I just write off the £338.00 paid as a BAD MISTAKE!
Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks
TracyL

Linkback - Extra Weeks
]]> 6/10/2008 12:12:32 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4562 4562 We want to go to European for my honeymoon. But I don’t know which hotel is very well for us. Yesterday I saw the introduction about the Al Raha Beach Hotel in [url=http://www.popvoucher.co.uk/]popvoucher[/url]. But I don’t know is it very well for us. Can you give me any advice? Thanks! The followed is the introduction about this hotel. [url=http://www.popvoucher.co.uk/cheap-al-raha-beach-hotel-deluxe-gulf-view-_lid-amffmmpf.html]Al Raha Beach Hotel [/url] (Deluxe Gulf View). We’ve negotiated special rates with our hotels to offer you up to 50% off. And on top of that we’re offering you free nights as well! Choose from the destinations below for a real bargain break. *Prices are based on a twin or double share and include taxes and breakfast in most European hotels. •6-Jun-2008 to 31-Aug-2008. Set in beautifully landscaped gardens with its own beach, this brand new boutique [url=http://www.popvoucher.co.uk/cheap-hotel/]hotel offers[/url] a peaceful retreat. The rooms offer all the facilities you need to make your stay a relaxing and personalised experience. All in all, if you want a relaxing haven, with comfort and elegance, this is the hotel for you.
extra information: CANCELLATIONS made later than 5 days before arrival for travel from 1 November 2007 to 14 May 2008 and 4 to 31 October 2008 will be charged 1 night.No shows will be charged full stay.
within 20 minutes walk: Located on a private beach, there is a lot of nature around and the Al Raha Beach shopping mall will open in July 2005. Other places of interest are in Abu Dhabi which is a 20 minute drive, or the Jumeirah area which is a 45 minute drive. restaurant: Opens 6am till 12am daily serving South Western Mediterranean Cuisine. from airport: Private Limousine costing 180 AED (one way). Taxi costing c.50 AED. parking: Private, underground parking. Cost TBA payable locally. business facilities: A business centre is available 24 hours. Conference rooms accommodate from 5 up to 500 pax. disabled facilities: Wheelchairs can access the hotel, all public areas and the lifts. Disabled public toilets are also available. family info: Family rooms are available but with rollaway beds. Cots are available. Interconnecting rooms are available. There is a play area, professional babysitters can be arranged, children's menus and high chairs are available. swimming pool: Indoor pool opens 6am till 10pm and outdoor pool opens 8am till 10pm. Both pools are free of charge and are open year round. bedroom: Triple rooms consist of a double or twin with a rollaway bed. Non-smoking rooms are available. Room safe is free of charge. bar: Opens 4pm till 2am daily serving snacks. gym: Opening times 6am till 10pm year round and is free of charge. golf: 18 hole golf course is available near by. spa: Opening times 6am till 10pm year round. The sauna and steam room are complimentary to hotel guests but any treatments will be subject to a charge locally.

Linkback - How about the Al Raha Beach Hotel when I spend my
]]> 6/9/2008 11:32:52 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4561 4561 I see that one of our members (or even two) have been given an extremely rough ride elsewhere (not TYG)
The thread can be read at.
http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=9789#37689

I am sure that those from Diamond who monitor this site will be particularly interested in this and even more interested should names and locations be made available to them.
I know that DRI take threats very seriously and as the membership is effectively in their care. Who knows? Something may well be done. So to the one making the threats. ENJOY!

Linkback - Roles and Responsibilities
]]> 6/9/2008 9:45:04 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4560 4560 Guess who it is:



More of the picture to be revealed daily.

The more of the picture that is show the less the reward.

Today it is worth 5 points!



Linkback - Guess who it is - 08 June
]]> 6/8/2008 9:31:25 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4559 4559
Thank you

Linkback - ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
]]> 6/8/2008 7:16:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4558 4558
COMMITTED: Owners of Pittodrie House Hotel, near Inverurie, hope to double the size of the buildings and convert outbuildings. Multimillion-pound expansion plans that could provide a tourism and rural employment boost for Aberdeenshire are back on the table.

As US tycoon Donald Trump prepares to fly into Aberdeen next week for a public hearing into his £1billion plans for a golf resort near Balmedie, it has been confirmed that fresh costs are being drawn up for a timeshare and golf resort scheme close to Bennachie, near Inverurie.

A spokesman for Macdonald Pittodrie House Hotel confirmed the global golfing interest that Trump’s project had stimulated had been an impetus to renewing plans for its 2,000-acre estate near Chapel of Garioch.

The project was put on hold and outline planning permission had lapsed on the development, which five years ago was costed at £20million and would now be “considerably more”.

“We do now hope to progress the plans,” said an agent for the country house hotel project. “There is certainly renewed interest focused on the north-east through Mr Trump’s proposals, and tremendous golfing and tourism potential locally. Our plans are firmly back on the table.”

An Aberdeenshire Council spokesman said full planning and listed building consent was being sought for a hotel extension that would double the size of the building and conversion of outbuildings to timeshare holiday units. An outline application is already in place for a golf course.

The traditional-style extension would include a swimming pool, gym, hydro-spa, leisure and golf club lounge, sauna and steam rooms on the ground floor.

There would also be a function suite and bar. The first floor would provide a 23-bedroom extension to the 27-bedroom hotel, while nearby steadings would be converted into 11 self-contained, timeshare-holiday units.

Pittodrie House Hotel has been undergoing a £1.2million refurbishment, and was recently awarded four-star status through the AA. The hotel, parts of which date from the 15th century, was commended for its “excellent all-round standards of service and investment”.

Macdonald Hotels and Resorts deputy chief executive Gordon Fraser said last night the group was committed to the development of commercial and tourism facilities.

He said: “We have resubmitted planning proposals and are encouraged by ongoing discussions already held with Aberdeenshire Council officials, and are hopeful the outcome will be favourable.”

BY ALISTAIR BEATON

http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/674522?UserKey=0


Linkback - Trump bid puts hotel plan back on course
]]> 6/8/2008 4:01:25 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4557 4557
How does the air tax system work at the moment?

Currently, each economy-class passenger flying to a European destination pays British air passenger duty of £10.

Those flying further afield pay £40.

What is the Government proposing?

It wants to charge tax for each aeroplane rather than each passenger.

The tax will vary depending on the size of the aircraft and how far it is travelling.

The world will be divided into three zones with European flights charged significantly less than transatlantic or long-haul destinations.

Airlines will pass on the tax to passengers.

How much will it cost?

The exact level of the charge per aircraft has not been set but the Government wishes to raise £2.6 billion from the new tax.

Airlines therefore calculate that the long-haul charge will be about £100 per person.

Why is the Government proposing the change?

It claims that it will encourage more environmentally friendly behaviour as airlines will be under pressure to fly full planes.

The airlines say this is nonsense as the high price of fuel and other costs are enough of an incentive to fill planes.

What is the problem with the plan?

Most European airlines fly long-haul via other European cities.

Therefore they will pay far lower rates of tax than those flying direct from London. Passengers on British and American-based airlines will pay far higher amounts.

Some airlines may also choose to stop using London as an international hub, particularly for freight flights.

The US government also points out that the tax does not penalise budget airlines even though these are the flights that most concern environmentalists.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travelnews/2086840/Airline-tax-row-QandampA.html


Linkback - Airline tax row: Q&A
]]> 6/8/2008 3:58:27 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4556 4556
An American outfit, Source Events (www.sourceevents.com), is to offer luxury gay nudist holidays to British customers for the first time. The Greek islands cruise sounds fun: “Loose yourself in the whitewashed island villages.” Don’t they mean “lose”? Actually, it looks rather good – it’s on the gorgeous tall ship Star Clipper (right), and costs only £1,093pp for a week, including meals. Dinner’s informal: just come as you are.

Full story : http://travel.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/travel/news/article4076203.ece

Linkback - A different kind of holiday?
]]> 6/8/2008 3:52:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4555 4555
Linkback - Diamond resorts points for sale
]]> 6/8/2008 3:09:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4554 4554 bobby

Linkback - AIRPORT TRANSFERS
]]> 6/7/2008 3:03:59 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4553 4553 It goes like this.
You get invited to their office where they convince you to buy 2 resale studios for half price 2k each which they will sell for you at full price making you 4k profit.

Step 2.. nNothing happens so you contact them in a year where you are told that it would be easier to sell if you owned a month so you buy 2 more resale studios for 2k each.

Step 3 nothing happens again so when you visit you are taken to their new and very luxurious resort where you pay 8k to upgrade to a 1 bed floating red which they say will definately sell.

They then sell your luxury week for 8k but instead of you losing 8k you are advised to reinvest the sale proceeds in 2 penthouse weeks on their premium resort and that is where you remain having paid 24k for the priveledge.

Linkback - Very slick scam
]]> 6/6/2008 3:52:41 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4552 4552 Sorry to bother you all, but I am posting on behalf of my brother.
In short, he and his wife were with their to children in Portugal back in 1996 and were "pursuaded" to buy a timeshare at club praia da oura week 1, which I believe is first week in January. They have NEVER used this one bedroom studio as they have two children, but have tried endlessly to cancel the maintenance contract of about £250+ a year.
They have been told they can only get out of the contract if they sell the timeshare.
Unfortunately, this they cannot do...in fact they can't even give it away!!(I know 'cos I've tried, advertised and have had no luck).
Anyone out there in timeshare land can give any advice? Surely they will not be liable for the rest of their life? And is this legal if the contract was signed in Portugal even though the Maintenance leeches are based in UK.[:(!]
Thanks for reading, and hopefully good advice,
Mark.


Linkback - Contracts and maintenance stuff!!
]]> 6/5/2008 10:50:55 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4551 4551
I have two Anfi weeks, one from Anfi itself and one via resale, both are for two bed standard apartments in Monte, the resale cost me around 5K. I have been offered an upgrade to Tauro Anfi which is for sale at around 28K, they will class the value of my resale at 15K leaving me effectively to pay 10K for 22000 points which would suffice for 3 weeks in a 1 bed apartment or 2 weeks in a penthouse at Anfi or other alternatives and have some points left over to carry forward etc. I would be free to transfer to any of the RCI or affiliated hotels with what was my resale week that I can only really use now at Anfi, and use my points instead. I am thinking this would give me a lot more flexibility and is not a massive price at around 10K. What do you guys think?

My other thoughts are that my current average cost per week I own is around 11K (Anfi price plus resale /2) If I buy the points for 10K which will give me a total of 4 weeks at Anfi or elsewhere a year my average price paid is around 8K per week owned. Any advice gratefully accepted. I could do with a quick recommendation here as I would like to get this sorted by Monday. I am thinking it is a decent deal and like to purchase from Anfi for peace of mind, please let me know. Regards.

Gary

Linkback - Good advice needed
]]> 6/5/2008 5:09:56 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4550 4550 http://www.dialanexchange.com/

It includes info about the new MD, David Lilley who also has a website here: http://www.marketinginnovations.co.uk/

Linkback - New DaE magazine and MD
]]> 6/4/2008 6:47:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4549 4549
I have banked my week with dial an exchange this year.
Has anyone had an dealings with them? Good or Bad.
I'd like your opinions.

Linkback - Dial an Exchange
]]> 6/4/2008 3:23:54 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4548 4548 Has anyone else had similar experience?


Linkback - Petchey & Petchey
]]> 6/4/2008 10:36:23 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4547 4547
Linkback - 'Trust Ownership'
]]> 6/3/2008 10:24:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4546 4546
Do airlines raise prices if they notice a certain route is being searched more frequently online?

A

I suspect many other readers have wondered the same thing you're asking, particularly when a fare you were interested suddenly jumped up after you searched it several times.

But, when I asked Tim Knowling, Kayak's director of business development and a former revenue manager at American, he didn't confirm the suspicion. "That is highly unlikely," says Knowling. "Airline prices are dictated by the market and competition. If an airline can charge a premium [and] increase fares, it will, but with it being such a competitive industry that is rarely the case."

On the other hand, our friends at Airfarewatchdog.com recommend clearing the cookies on your Internet browser if you've been searching a particular route often, saying, "If a fare changes between two separate searches done over time on the same route, some fare search engines may return the results you viewed earlier rather than the new, lower results."

http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/do-airlines-raise-prices-if-they-notice-route-being-heavily-searched-online.html?id=2602700


Linkback - Airlines raise cost- if route is searched often?
]]> 6/3/2008 5:55:33 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4545 4545
questions:

"How can I sell a timeshare I no longer want to use?"

The short answer: "probably at a loss." Yes, you can sell, but you're not likely to come even close to what you originally paid. Moreover, lots of apparently attractive offers to resell timeshares are borderline to outright scams.

In search of more detailed information on reselling, I visited the website for the Timeshare User's Group (TUG), a valuable resource for any present owner or prospective buyer. The selling recommendations I list are based, in part, on information from the TUG website.

Never pay big up-front resale fees

Almost every offer to sell your timeshare for a big up-front fee is a scam, and the up-front fees are not trivial. Although some may start around $100, many can be thousands of dollars. Whether the promoter says the fee is for "advertising," "appraisal," "marketing," "market analysis," or any other impressive-sounding name, the likely outcome is that once you send in your fee you probably won't hear anything positive—or, in many cases, anything at all. Out of hundreds of messages from members, says TUG, only two reported any success with a fee-up-front reseller.

The promotions may sound enticing. Some "guarantee" to sell your unwanted interval; some claim that they have a list of "qualified buyers," often from Europe or Asia, who are looking for timeshares to buy. Some offer a "money back" guarantee or say your up-front fee is "refundable." Good luck getting it!

The only exception to the "no fee" rule is the minor cost—in the $10 to $30 range—for posting a "sale" notice on one of the many exchange/trade websites. In fact, TUG carries such listings on its own site.

Value your timeshare realistically

Beyond paying an upfront fee, the next biggest mistake timeshare sellers make is putting too high a price tag on the intervals they're trying to sell. Forget what you paid, because you won't get it back—or come even close. Timeshares are like new cars: The minute you leave the developer's office, the value drops sharply.

Instead, base your price on asking prices for similar intervals. That's easy enough to check: My "favorites" list includes some two-dozen timeshare resale websites, and I suspect there are far more that I don't have. You can also check out the asking prices on multimarket sale/trade websites such as eBay or craigslist. Google "timeshare" plus the base location of your timeshare. Call the base resort and ask about recent sales.

As with so much of the travel industry, your best bet is to set your price at or near the low end for comparable intervals. If you see a listing with four or five comparable intervals, and yours is near the top, your chances of getting a "bite" are pretty slim.

Some owners I know have agreed to relinquish their timeshares back to the developer without receiving anything. That was the only way to avoid further cash-draining maintenance and other recurring fees.

Realistically, you may even have to pay to get out of a bad timeshare deal. If you financed your timeshare purchase, you might find yourself "upside down" on the deal: still owing more on the loan than the best price you can get.

Present your timeshare honestly

Provide an honest description of the property and exchange options. Don't claim "beachfront" if the beach is a block away. Don't understate maintenance and other fees. If possible, include photos.

Promote in efficient media

Based on reports from members, TUG lists several resellers that have performed relatively well. Among the most active are RedWeek, MyResortNetwork.com, and TransAction Realty. The TUG website includes links to another 16 sites that have received favorable user reviews.

As mentioned, the big multimarket sell/trade sites such as eBay and craigslist include timeshare resale postings. You could also consider placing small classified ads in your local paper or the paper in your interval's primary location, but in today's marketplace, posting online gives you a lot more bang for the buck.

Don't bother trying to get a realtor to handle a timeshare resale. The commission would be far too small to interest even the hungriest agent.

Don't fall for a "second generation" scam

Sadly, there's no end to avarice among scammers. I've heard several reports of people who fell victim twice: once to an original scammer who took money with a promise to resell but didn't, and again to a second who promised to help them get their money back from the first. Don't pay an up-front fee for someone to sell your timeshare—and especially don't pay another fee to try to get the first one back.

Full Story by Ed Perkins: http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/reselling-timeshare-is-no-picnic.html?id=2603494

Linkback - Reselling a Timeshare
]]> 6/3/2008 5:45:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4544 4544
Linkback - Dinner
]]> 6/3/2008 5:43:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4543 4543

Timesharetalk celebrates it's 10,000th member

Today, Timesharetalk celebrates signing up it's 10,000th member since the sites inception in 2004.

Congratulations to Alan Betts for being number 10,000

Next step, 20,000 !

Linkback - Timesharetalk cracks 10k
]]> 6/3/2008 4:16:19 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4542 4542
Thank you.

LM

Linkback - Selling a timeshare
]]> 6/3/2008 2:38:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4541 4541
We called into Pine Lake on the way home from Kenmore.

They had a few cards around in the bar and reception area advertising the following:

"Come join in the fun!

All your favourite creature friends are waiting for a home.

Make them, dress them, collect them and love them.

Your Creature CLUB pals NEED YOU!

A Diamond resorts International huggable and loveable family-friendly activity.

Inquire at Front Desk Reception."

Now some of the cynical types might consider this to be some sort of money spinning activity, but they have certainly researched the market.

There is Panda, Rhino, Pony, Bear, Elephant, Zebra, Giraffe, Cow, Fox, Lion and many others to collect.

My kids (if I'd let them see them) would have been at the front of the queue.

And lets face it, it is a lot friendlier for kids than a MONSTER...!!!



Linkback - Creature Club
]]> 6/2/2008 11:24:33 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4540 4540 wk 25
1 bedroom apt.
all offers considered.

HAve been subject to usual con merchants offering attractive sums but have not succumbed. Any advise on sale welcome as looking to offload as i have just bought an apartment in france. Despite bad publicity when I have used my timeshare & exchanges I have always found the accomodation top notch

Linkback - lagos de fanabe tenerife
]]> 6/2/2008 10:58:58 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4539 4539
have 12100 to sell.

Open to offers

Linkback - 12100 The Former Company points for sale
]]> 6/2/2008 9:54:31 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4538 4538
Linkback - Club Marbella Pool
]]> 6/1/2008 4:33:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4537 4537

This could be a tricky one, so 5 points for a correct answer.

Answer to be revealed 8th June unless correctly guessed beforehand.






Linkback - Guess what it is - 1 June
]]> 6/1/2008 3:40:57 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4536 4536 We are timeshare owners at Clowance estate and though it was still a gold resort with RCI ???
It is now with Interval !
Yet the old RCI boards are up and the 2008 award is shown ???


Linkback - Seasons Not RCI Affliated ??
]]> 6/1/2008 1:46:43 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4535 4535 It appeared that there had been some serious interior damage to the lodge with large brown markings on the ceilings of the bathroom , bedroom and the kitchen.
The floor covering in the kitchen was torn.
When we spoke to the sales staff they advise that 18 million had been spent on the resort as it was not up to scratch when Seasons purchased the resort for 3 million.

They would eventually get around to repairing and redocarting our lodge. Would we like to change to Seasons ?

NO WAY !

[xx(]

New TV< DVD Vidoe system together with internet connection and more channels.
New curtains and cushions for the sofa !


Linkback - Clowance Up To Scratch ?
]]> 6/1/2008 12:14:30 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4534 4534
Linkback - Confessions
]]> 5/31/2008 11:56:44 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4533 4533
Linkback - 4000 The Former Company Points to sell (cheap)!
]]> 5/31/2008 11:08:50 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4532 4532
Linkback - 1 Week Sunset Harbour Club
]]> 5/30/2008 9:55:51 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4531 4531
Just thought I'd give a quick update on the weeks fishing activity.

Tuesday - I tried a spot of fishing on Loch Tay - I was not able to go straight out from the Kenmore Club as apparently we have not paid for protection (presumably Water Bailiffs not some dodgy Scottish Mafia [;)]). Not a sniff! Should have been a few Rainbow trout but nope - nothing - nada...

Thursday - I went fishing on the River. There are a number of "pools" - for the uninitiated these are sections of slower moving waters where the Fish usually rest on their way upstream. I opted not to go for the Hotel Pool as I had not seen anything rising there at all. Next is the Dairy which is a long stretch of water but not easily accessible; this is followed by the Ladies Pool - so named as the Ladies usually fish there. I opted for the next pool down which was the Chinese pool. I can thorougly recommend this stretch as it was quite active - plenty of trout rising to feed.

I started off on Mayfly as they are still hatching - had a couple of bites - both brown trout - both too quick for me!

It went very quiet for about an hour after 7 rafts crammed full of children went by - I know they have the same right to be there as I did but it spoils it. [:(]

After the trout started rising again I switched to grays - closest thing to midges that I had - no action. Tried a few other, but then realised that some pratt was letting their dog splash around in the water about 200 yards further downstream from me - I then packed in for the day.

All in all - much harder work than fishing still water by fly but very satisfying. The fish are far less dosile and much much fitter.

I will be going again!



The Missus snuck up and took a piccy of me - Looks like I'm wearing a nappy, but it is cream coloured shorts under leg waders [:I]



Linkback - Fly Fishing on the River Tay
]]> 5/30/2008 9:05:27 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4530 4530
Linkback - 1 in 4 Rule at ANFI
]]> 5/30/2008 8:03:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4529 4529 Any info would be appreciated.

Linkback - Timeshare Sales Ltd (Manchester)
]]> 5/30/2008 7:58:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4528 4528
30% Discount off Package Holidays - holidaysave

£50 Discount when you spend over £600 - aff50a or AFF50A

£50 Discount when you spend over £600 - AW2812CL

£25 Discount when you spend over £300 - WEL121 or WELC121

£50 Discount when you book an Expedia Special Rate Hotel with your Virgin Atlantic Booking to New York or Boston or Washington or Chicago - VIRGIN50

http://www.asap.co.uk/news/expedia-promotional-discount-voucher-codes-released-5632828.html


Linkback - Expedia Promotional Discount Voucher Codes
]]> 5/30/2008 5:48:29 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4527 4527
Parsippany, NJ (PRWEB) May 29, 2008 -- RCI®, the global leader in vacation exchange, and one of the Wyndham Worldwide family of brands (NYSE: WYN), has announced the affiliation of two properties in British Columbia, Canada. Aviawest at Pinnacle Lodge & Spa, located in Sun Peaks, and Pacific Shores Fractional Residences, located in Nanoose Bay, have both signed affiliation agreements that will add the vacation resorts to the RCI Points Exchange Program. Both resorts have received RCI Gold Crown Resort® status, the highest quality level as measured by RCI standards.

Aviawest at Pinnacle Lodge & Spa is owned by Aviawest Resorts, Inc., offering ski-in, access to the famed Sun Peaks Mountain area near Kamloops, B.C. There are 20 studio suites with partial kitchen facilities, a private hot tub on each deck, and mountain panoramas from the comfort of a Lodge balcony. The resort features a spa, restaurant, fitness center, ice rink, golf course, daily maid service, and meeting faciities. The

Pacific Shores Fractional Residences are also owned by Aviawest Resorts, Inc. and feature two-bedroom/two bath units with fireplaces in the living room and bedroom, full kitchens, and granite countertops. Amenities include a spa, fitness center, swimming pool outdoor thermal rock pools, playground areas, and complimentary kayaks. Guests enjoy over 15 acres of botanical gardens and beach access with 2,500 feet of prime waterfront and breathtaking views of Craig Bay.

Full story: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2008/05/prweb976324.htm

Linkback - Two New Canadian Affiliations to RCI
]]> 5/30/2008 5:45:03 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4526 4526
Virgin Atlantic is imposing new charges today and, from Tuesday, British Airways long-haul passengers will have to pay £218 on top of the ticket price simply to cover the cost of fuel.

Other airlines, struggling to cope with fuel bills but wary of raising ticket prices for fear of losing customers, are introducing new fees for services, such as baggage handling, more leg room and even a window seat.

The BA increase, the second in a month, means that a family of four booking a trip to the West Coast of America on Tuesday will have to pay £240 more than they would have done yesterday. Shorter flights will also cost more, but those who have booked and paid for their trips will escape the extra charges.

Virgin Atlantic surcharges have risen by between £2.50 and £16.50, depending on the travelling class and length of flight. Ferry companies have already announced that their passengers will be asked to pay a fuel surcharge for the first time.

In the past two months, Air New Zealand has increased its fuel surcharge twice, while Japan Airlines this week raised its charges on flights to Europe and America by 40 per cent. Lufthansa and KLM have also hit passengers with higher ticket prices.

Analysts predict more increases in the coming months and industry experts say that airlines are likely to seek costs from passengers, such as higher baggage fees. Some carriers have already cut services and others, including those offering transatlantic flights, have gone out of business.

In America, airlines have tried to avoid raising ticket prices but have devised other means of extracting more cash from passengers. American Airlines is to charge a one-way $15 fee for the first piece of luggage checked in; US Airways is charging another $30 for travellers who want a window seat; Jet Blue is adding a $10-$20 fee if passengers require extra leg room.

BA refused to rule out more rises. Douglas McNeill, an analyst with Blue Oar Securities, said: “One more round of increases is likely at least. I wouldn’t rule out a second.”

James Fremantle, of the Air Transport Users Council, said passengers would be confused by the hikes. “It seems to me that the bulk of the price for a flight these days is for the supplement. You can get some flights to New York for just over £100 and then you are probably paying £200 on taxes, surcharges and supplements. The problem is that every company advertises ticket prices in a different way.”

Lorna Cowan, editor of Which? Holiday, said: “It is all very well airlines adding these fuel surcharges but when fuel prices come down

how often are passengers offered discounts? I think consumers will be wary about splashing out on far-flung holidays as this increase is a substantial amount. Many people this year will be tempted to stay in the UK.”

But Sean Tipton, of the Association of British Travel Agents, praised BA for being open about surcharges and said there could even be a weekend rush for summer bookings to beat the higher charges.

A BA spokesman was confident that, after the half-term holiday washout, bookings to Florida and California would rise for summer. “The extra charges are not being imposed retrospectively and there is still a window of three or four days when people can book at the lower rate,” he said.

Peter Smith, of travelsupermarket.com , said that people would still pay for an annual holiday but might do without weekend breaks. He did not expect a rush to book before Tuesday. “People like to research their holidays and most would prefer to pay an extra £15 or £30 on a ticket knowing they get what they want.”

The breakdown

BA flight London to San Francisco:

£287 cost of ticket
£218 fuel surcharge
£80 tax
£3.50 credit card charge
£2.50 insurance and security surcharge

Total: £591

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/transport/article4029739.ece



Linkback - Fuel prices -holiday crunch as air surcharges soar
]]> 5/30/2008 5:41:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4525 4525
Linkback - Bonusweekbreaks
]]> 5/30/2008 4:36:44 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4524 4524

We are currently staying at the Kenmore Club in Scotland and can report back that there has been sightings of Dave's much sought after Jam!

Below are pictures of a refurbished unit to the "Diamond Standard" rather than those done previously to the "S.unterra Standard".

I personally dont think the pictures do justice to just how impressive the changes are but is is well worth a look.

Outside:


Bathrooms:




Including a Walk in Shower:


Master Bedroom:


Twin Bedroom:


Kitchen:


Living area:






There was also talk of all unsold inventory coming on line - anyone on the promos will not be stopping on resort but will be coming for a presentation (should solve a lot of the availability issues); a two storey restaurant (instead of the tiny one currently available); a Diamond Channel on the TV's with info as to what is on and what is coming up and finally Wireless Internet is not too far away.

Oh and ours has not been refurbished yet:



Many thanks to Elaine and Chris for allowing me to wander around Snap Happy as it were.

Linkback - It's JAM time...
]]> 5/28/2008 9:00:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4523 4523
Linkback - Maintenance Fees
]]> 5/28/2008 4:16:32 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4522 4522
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7422851.stm

Linkback - OFT finally wakes up.
]]> 5/28/2008 12:57:16 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4521 4521 Great opportunity! One bedroom apartment for four persons - week 39 in the RCC Teneriffe resort for £300.

Link to the Resort: http://www.regencycountryclub.com/

Linkback - Teneriffe RCC one week rent
]]> 5/28/2008 12:33:59 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4520 4520
Linkback - worlwide network sales is it a scam ?
]]> 5/27/2008 10:09:51 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4519 4519
Linkback - TwaResale
]]> 5/27/2008 9:20:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4518 4518 Can only sell to existing members.
Please make an offer.

Linkback - 6000 Points for Sale
]]> 5/27/2008 2:25:42 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4517 4517
First posting and thanks for this website.

My in laws just came back from the Oura Beach club , Portugal owned by the Petchey group.

They were phoned, went to a sales meeting and signed to convert two weeks of timeshare into 40,000 points for another charge of £4,000.

The two weeks were for a 2 bed appartment in the oura view beach club (mid may)and another for Sept in praia da orua

Apparently they haven't paid anything yet but have two weeks to cancel.

They were sold the infiniti scheme and were told that they could use the RCI points system to travel anywhere.

Good salesman as I think they were going to offload the timeshares but bought into another scheme![}:)]

Any help here would be appreciated as they don't know what to do.

Thanks in advance.

Linkback - Infiniti and Oura Beach club points help
]]> 5/27/2008 1:04:32 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4516 4516
Sources within the airline industry indicate that credit is being denied to most of the leading American carriers and the practice is moving to Europe and Asia. So uncertain is the cash solvency of the industry that jet fuel suppliers insist on prepayments into special bank accounts.

A credit controller at a leading European multinational oil company told The Times that the oil industry was moving to jet fuel prepayment. “It’s common in the US and it is moving to Europe. We have been moving to prepayment since Swissair went bust.”

The need to put up money before delivery of fuel is a huge financial burden that has been shifted from the oil companies to the airlines. According to John Armbrust, a US jet fuel consultant, the oil industry had $5 billion (£2.5 billion) of jet fuel credit outstanding to airlines before the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Now they are demanding that airlines leave cash on deposit.

The extent of the cash squeeze was highlighted last week when American Airlines said that it would charge $15 per bag checked even as it revealed plans to shed 75 aircraft, shrinking the airline’s capacity by 12 per cent.

The price of jet fuel has risen by 60 per cent since January and American Airlines paid $665 million more for fuel in the first quarter of this year than in the same period of 2007.

The credit crunch is likely to worsen and a number of financial institutions will fail, according to research from Atradius, the credit insurance group which conducted a global survey of its customers’ views of the financial outlook. Although Atradius said that companies expect the number of failures to be small, about 65 per cent expect there to be failures.

The group added that direct exposure to sub-prime lending is higher in Europe than in the United States even though the bulk of the sub-prime mortgage defaults are in the US and many of the securities these loans are packaged into would have originated from US-based mortgage companies.

“Some explanation for this may be investments by European companies in US securities offering higher returns and more frequent use of secondary financial markets to securitise receivables by European countries,” it said.

Atradius added that only 12 per cent of companies across the world do not expect an economic slowdown in the next year. In Britain, more than 90 per cent of companies surveyed expect a slowdown, the highest percentage. About one in six companies expects a slowdown of only the national economy; a quarter expect a slowdown of the global economy and half expect a slowdown of both. The expectation of a slowdown is also high in Mexico, the United States, Spain, Italy, France and Belgium and lowest in Sweden and the Netherlands.

Atradius found that larger companies are more likely to have been affected by the credit crisis. Although fewer than 30 per cent of small companies reported an impact, almost half of all large companies (with more than €1 billion annual gross sales) said that they had felt the credit-crisis pinch.

Companies operating within the energy industry have been especially affected, but those in the healthcare and services industries reported a relatively low frequency of impact.

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/transport/article4004371.ece


Linkback - Fuel suppliers demand airlines pay cash in advance
]]> 5/27/2008 6:50:16 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4515 4515
It would seem that the annual summer holiday may not be as hotly anticipated as it once was with some workers complaining that they have to work up to 50 extra hours in the weeks before and after they go. That is according to a new survey by RecruitIreland.com on workers attitudes to summer holidays.

It would seem that the annual summer holiday may not be as hotly anticipated as it once was with some workers complaining that they have to work up to 50 extra hours in the weeks before and after they go. That is according to a new survey by RecruitIreland.com on workers attitudes to summer holidays.

· Irish Workers find the time leading up to their holidays' one of the most stressful times of the year.

· One third of workers claim it takes up to three days to unwind!

· 1 in two tempted to stay on in holiday resort and start a new life, leaving their Irish Jobs behind

It would seem that the annual summer holiday may not be as hotly anticipated as it once was with some workers complaining that they have to work up to 50 extra hours in the weeks before and after they go. That is according to a new survey by RecruitIreland.com on workers attitudes to summer holidays.

The survey revealed that many Irish workers may not be getting the benefit that they need from their annual break. Over 55% of respondents found the time leading up to their holidays was one of the most stressful times of the year. One out of every three respondents claim they have to work from 10 to 20 hours extra at their job on either side of their holiday to make up for their time off and one third of workers claim it takes up to three days to wind down once on holidays. Over one third say their holiday buzz disappears as soon as they walk back in the door of the office with 37% stating they dread going back to their jobs in Ireland.

Emma Henry of RecruitIreland.com, commenting on the survey said, "The importance of having a break from work shouldn't be underestimated - it boosts productivity, motivation and morale. One of the more startling facts to arise from the survey is that, one in five workers state they don't actually take their full holiday entitlement with nearly half of these saying it is because they are too busy and 20% stating that it is not the done thing in their company or they feel it would effect their promotional prospects. Recruit Ireland would recommend employers encourage staff to take their full holiday entitlement and allow them to have a proper break without calls or emails from work unless absolutely necessary."

However, some Irish workers still find that once on holiday they can relax with just over half of respondents stating they mange to switch off completely from their jobs once away. A resounding 85% said they did not miss work while on holidays. And when the holidays are over 57% said they are disappointed holidays are over but don't mind going back to work.

Finally, a warning to Irish employers! One in three respondents stated that they think about changing career while on holidays and over half of the respondents claimed that they have at one point or another been tempted to find a job in the holiday resort and start a completely new life.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2008/05/prweb968654.htm


Linkback - Summer Holidays - Hotly Anticipated or Stress fest
]]> 5/27/2008 6:44:46 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4514 4514
Indoor Waterpark Resorts
Hotel & Leisure Advisors (H&LA) defines an indoor waterpark resort as a lodging establishment containing an attached aquatic facility inclusive of amenities such as inner tube slides, body slides, wave pools, water roller coasters, simulated surfboard rides, lazy rivers, and a variety of multi-level indoor water play features. The indoor waterparks are uniquely and heavily themed, offering guests an experience rather than simply an added amenity.

Historically, the primary growth of indoor waterparks in hotels and resorts has taken place in summer vacation-oriented locations. However, indoor waterparks are increasingly being developed in suburban and urban locations. Since the early 1990s, indoor waterpark resorts have been popping up across the United States with escalating frequency. According to Hotel & Leisure Advisors, there were 100 operating indoor waterpark resorts in the U.S. in 21 different states at the end of 2007. These indoor waterparks range in size from 10,000 to 173,000 square feet, averaging 33,172 square feet of indoor aquatic space. The cost to build these large-scale indoor waterparks has ranged from $300 to $500 per square foot of net indoor waterpark space. The cost is highly dependent upon the location, amount of theming, and the attractions included.

Addition of an Indoor Waterpark to an Existing Resort
Hotel & Leisure Advisors analyzed the actual change in performance recorded by seven existing hotels following the addition of an indoor waterpark. After the waterpark addition, the seven indoor waterpark properties reported a 59% average increase in rooms revenue per available room.

Based upon the findings of research conducted for numerous resorts in the Wisconsin Dells area, where indoor waterparks are most prevalent, the inclusion of an indoor waterpark within a condominium resort complex can increase the selling price of the condominium units by as much as 50%. We interviewed executives from some of the largest U.S. timeshare sales companies, as well as exchange companies. Due to the low number of timeshare resorts currently offering indoor waterpark components, it is difficult to pinpoint the precise benefit the waterpark has on timeshare sales. However, our interviews revealed that timeshare resorts have the potential to increase point values for weeks sold by up to 30% with the inclusion of a large-scale indoor waterpark. In addition, our interviewees stated that having an indoor waterpark helps a timeshare resort to sell its less desirable weeks both at a quicker pace and at higher point values than would have been possible otherwise. Indoor waterparks have also helped to boost occupancy levels at resorts, which has led to increased ancillary revenues in other departments such as food and beverage.

To date, five timeshare resorts in the United States include indoor waterparks with another adding an indoor waterpark in 2008. According to our confidential interviews, several more are in the planning stage. The following chart depicts the six U.S. timeshare resorts offering indoor waterparks. We note that the Resort at Split Rock’s indoor waterpark is still completing construction and will not open until summer 2008.

Massanutten Resort reported that after the indoor waterpark addition was announced, both sales and prices of timeshare units increased. According to a representative of the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort at Gatlinburg, the waterpark amenity has been a definite boost to timeshare sales. Management of the Resort at Split Rock indicated that the average price of the timeshare week sales has increased since the announcements for the proposed indoor waterpark. Glacier Canyon at the Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin Dells has enjoyed very strong sales of timeshares which management attributes to the indoor waterpark amenity offering. They will add an additional 100 units by 2009.

Addition of Timeshare Units to an Existing Indoor Waterpark Resort
A number of indoor waterpark resorts are considering adding timeshare units as a component of their overall rooms supply. The first two resorts to add timeshare units (depicted in the preceding chart) include Odyssey Dells and Wyndham Vacation Resorts at Glacier Canyon. Mount Olympus Water and Theme Park Resort in Wisconsin Dells has partnered with Bluegreen Corporation to implement an approximately 62-unit development in 2008 and 2009. A second phase of this Odyssey Dells development is proposed to add up to 140 additional timeshare units at a later date. Wyndham’s timeshare division is selling timeshares at the Wilderness Territory Resort in Wisconsin Dells and is planning to develop timeshare units at the Wilderness Resort in Sevierville, Tennessee.

To pay for the addition, most timeshare developers are charging increased maintenance fees. With the exception of the Resort at Split Rock and Massanutten, all of the previously listed timeshare resorts include waterpark admission rates in the owners’ annual fees (maintenance fees). The fees are therefore somewhat higher than those charged by timeshare resorts without indoor waterparks. Alternately, the Resort at Split Rock and Massanutten Resort charge a discounted daily admission price to their timeshare owners for the waterpark use.

Further Revenue Opportunities to Consider
In addition to increasing the selling price of timeshare weeks, indoor waterparks have the potential to provide a revenue boost via the sale of day passes to outside visitors. Of course, indoor and outdoor waterparks represent only one type of potential revenue generator. Some developers have become quite creative with their multi-seasonal amenity offerings, and are considering adding attractions such as an indoor or outdoor amusement park. Others are developing an indoor sports dome capable of housing baseball fields, soccer fields, ice rinks, a driving range and putting greens, equestrian center, ATV and dirt bike track, tennis and basketball courts, and/or other athletic facilities. A number of timeshare resorts include an outdoor waterpark element, but few currently have larger amusement parks or sports domes. There are proposals in Arizona and New York for timeshare resorts offering cutting-edge amenities such as an indoor man-made white water rafting and kayaking course, indoor surf park, and indoor ski hill.

The amenities listed previously can increase revenue via the sale of daily admission for usage/entrance while also generating increased demand for some hard to sell off-season weeks. As an example, day passes to an indoor or outdoor waterpark and/or amusement park can be sold for $25 to $50 per person depending upon the size of the park, the number of attractions offered, and the level of theming.

Another way a resort can increase its top line revenue is via the development of new revenue centers popular among guests. As timeshare guests typically prefer resorts in close proximity to several entertainment and activity options, resorts have the potential to earn extra income by providing such amenities on site. Potential revenue centers not previously mentioned include:

Restaurants, bars, nightclubs, coffee shops, and other eateries
Retail shops (which could be leased to an outside operator)
A day spa (which could be leased to an outside operator)
Family entertainment center (including features like miniature golf, laser tag, an arcade, and virtual reality games and simulators)
A multi-purpose theater capable of showing movies and hosting comedians and various types of musical and theatrical groups
The timeshare resorts mentioned earlier all have several amenities and entertainment options to offer which require timeshare owners to reach for their wallets. For instance, Wilderness Territory Resort includes a six-hole executive par 3 golf course, an 18-hole golf course, five different eateries, a spa, and an arcade. Massanutten’s timeshare resort includes twin 18-hole golf courses, 14 ski runs, and six eateries. Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort at Gatlinburg’s amenities include an arcade and two eateries. The Villages Resort offers a marina, rental of paddle and pontoon boats, jet skis, miniature golf, horseback riding, and an activity center. The Resort at Split Rock charges additional fees for multiple eateries, an indoor sports dome, bowling, movie theater, 18-hole golf course, and spa. In addition to being revenue-driven, all of these amenities aid in selling timeshare weeks.

Summary

When conjuring up ways to bolster top-line revenues, timeshare resorts should consider their location, current clientele, and potential for attracting new owners. An added amenity such as an indoor waterpark requires substantial front-end capital investment, but offers the potential to market the property to new clientele, sell weeks at a double-digit increase in point values, and even increase the amount of coveted red weeks available. Added amenities and entertainment can also afford timeshare resorts a substantial advantage over competitive resorts in a market. With these types of enticing incentives available, we expect to see savvy developers finding unique ways to catch this profitable industry wave.

http://www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4036076.html







Linkback - Unique Ways For Resorts To Increase Revenu
]]> 5/27/2008 6:42:39 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4513 4513
Linkback - Places to stay in New York
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Barry

Linkback - Astronomy
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Linkback - Atrocious Weather
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Millions of holidaymakers who have arranged their trips over the internet are not insured for flight cancellations.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), about six out of 10 holidays are booked online. But those taking this route, without realising it, are likely to have less protection on flight cancellations than travellers who buy package deals.

Brian Brown, head of insurance at financial researcher Defaqto.com, says: "If flights are cancelled and rescheduled by the airline, as happened during the Heathrow Terminal 5 debacle, package holidaymakers have recourse to the tour operator, which will rearrange travel or compensate the passenger.


"But an independent traveller has to rely on the airline rather than their insurer. It is down to the airline to arrange another flight or offer a refund – but no more than this."

As a result, travellers could lose days off their holiday as well as the cost of pre-paid accommodation, connecting flights, car hire and any prebooked excursions.

To address this problem, Axa, the UK's largest insurer, launched an add-on to its travel cover this week. For an extra 25 per cent on the premium, its Independent Traveller Cover will pay for lost holiday time and the additional costs involved. This includes expenses to reach a destination because of a flight cancellation, a delay of more than five hours, or if a passenger is denied boarding because of an overbooked flight.

Marks & Spencer's policy, underwritten by Axa, was also updated last month to include this cover as standard on its annual travel cover, and as an optional extra on a single trip policy.

Simon Lamble, of price comparison site www.confused.com, says: "Your airline has an obligation to help you in the event of severe delay or cancellation of your flight, but if you don't have any luck dealing with it, the additional cover offered by these sorts of policies can make sure you're not left high and dry."

Peter Gerrard, of www.moneysupermarket.com, adds: "The extra cover is worth paying for - particularly if you're a family with young children, as you don't want to end up spending the night on an airport floor."

Most policies offer delayed departure cover, providing a fixed sum to cover food and drink if a flight is put back by six to 12 hours because of bad weather or technical problems. But as shown on our table from Defaqto.com, this amounts to a paltry £20 to £30, which won't stretch far with steep airport prices.

Brown says: "To receive a payment of £200 to £300 from their insurer holidaymakers would have to be delayed for three or four days, which most wouldn't stand for - they would cancel their travel or make other arrangements.

"If outbound travel is delayed for 12 hours or more, travellers are usually given the option in most policies to abandon their trip and claim costs back from the insurer."

Peter Staddon, head of technical services at the British Insurance Brokers Association, says: "The devil is in the detail - check your policy for what would happen if your flight is delayed.

"Most insurers won't cover consequential loss, such as a missed connection or excursion costs."

The European Union's Denied Boarding Regulation is aimed at strengthening passengers' rights when it comes to what airlines provide after a cancellation. For delays of more than five hours on a journey of 1,500 to 3,500km, passengers are entitled to overnight accommodation or a refund of the cost of the flight if they abandon their journey.

Gerrard says: "If you're with an established airline you will get better treatment, but with budget ones you get what you paid for, which can be frustrating as they may try and deny you these rights." The regulatory body the Air Transport Users Council (AUC) gives details of air travellers' legal rights on its website at www.auc.org.uk.



Gareth Randles: his insurance policy failed to cover a flight cancellation

Case study: 'we were absolutely shattered'

Gareth Randles resorted to sleeping on Malaga airport's floor when his flight was cancelled and his insurance policy failed to cover him.

Randles, 49, a human resources manager from the village of Gresford, near Wrexham, North Wales, was on his way back from a four day holiday with a friend.

He says: "The low-cost airline said our flight was delayed by about five hours, then it said it was cancelled due to a technical fault - but by this time it was 2am and while we were told we could go to a hotel, the airline said we had to pay for this and transport there ourselves."

Instead, they decided to sleep on the airport floor as they had to catch the 7.30am flight back to Liverpool, just over five hours later.

He said: "Our insurance didn't cover us as it was down the airline to compensate us - but all the low-cost airline gave us was some €5 vouchers to spend in the airport shop which opened in the morning.

"At that time of night there's nothing we could do, and we were absolutely shattered - the airport cleaning machine was going around me as I tried to sleep on the floor."

He said he would consider paying extra for a policy that covered for flight cancellations and losses as a result of this. However, he adds: "I don't have an awful lot of confidence in insurance policies and am dubious about what you can really claim on them."

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/money/main.jhtml?xml=/money/2008/05/23/cmholiday123.xml


Linkback - Internet-booked holidays uncovered
]]> 5/25/2008 7:58:42 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4509 4509
Airline consultant Michael Boyd took a look at energy prices last fall and drew a harsh conclusion.

"We figure at $80 a barrel, most airlines can make money, barely," he told a national aviation conference in October. "If it goes to 90 bucks a barrel, I don't know, invest in Enron or something."

Today, most airline executives would trade their mothers, plus their frequent-flier programs, for a steady supply of oil below $100.

Despite a regular diet of fare increases and new charges and fees, airlines are not staying ahead of the rising cost of fuel, which this year will add billions of dollars to their operating expenses.

American Airlines was already complaining loudly about oil prices in its third-quarter earnings statement last October – about the same time Mr. Boyd spoke of $90 oil. But with oil prices now over $130 a barrel and climbing to uncertain heights, the recent past seems like a dimly remembered dream.

"Few of us thought, when we announced those earnings seven months ago, that we would ever look back fondly at $90-a-barrel oil," American's chairman and chief executive, Gerard Arpey, said Wednesday at the annual shareholders meeting of AMR Corp., American's parent.

Some industry leaders are predicting faster consolidation and bankruptcy in the industry.

The desperation caused a public outcry this week when American said it would start charging $15 to check the first bag as part of its battle against rising fuel prices. The airline already charges $25 for a second bag.

American estimates that each $10 rise in the price of a barrel of crude oil raises its annual jet-fuel bill by $800 million. Consider that oil futures have jumped from $64.97 a year ago to $130.53 a barrel on Thursday, and the scope of the problem becomes clearer.

On Thursday, the Air Transport Association, the industry trade group, projected that U.S. airlines will spend nearly $60 billion this year on jet fuel, up $18 billion from 2007. The group said the increase was "equivalent to employing 244,000 airline workers or purchasing 261 narrow-body jets."

It also said 40 percent of the price of an airline ticket goes to pay for fuel, compared with 15 percent in 2000.

Standard & Poor's Ratings Services pointed to the fuel prices Thursday when it put debt ratings for nine U.S. airlines – including American and Southwest Airlines – on credit watch "with negative implications."

"Although airlines will seek to recover the higher [fuel] costs through additional fare hikes and higher fees, we believe that this will prove increasingly difficult in a weak U.S. economy," S&P credit analyst Philip Baggaley said.

Industry analyst Ray Neidl of Calyon Securities says the industry "is at a crossroads at current oil prices."

"The current business model is not sustainable at oil price levels above $130 a barrel," he told clients in a report Thursday. "Cost-cutting, ticket price increases and additional ancillary revenues can't match the unprecedented rise in oil prices."

Mr. Neidl said that airlines must undergo "major capacity shrinkage" to force up fares, "or oil prices have to decline substantially, down towards $100 a barrel, for the industry to return to even break-even levels."

How much? Mr. Neidl estimates that U.S. airlines need to cut domestic capacity – flying in the United States and Canada – by at least 20 percent. To put it into context, that would be equal to the entire capacity of Continental Airlines, US Airways and Frontier Airlines.

"This is a significant reduction that would come from airline merger-related capacity cuts, liquidation of weaker carriers or the industry showing strong discipline in implementing capacity cuts across the board," Mr. Neidl said.

The only major merger currently pending is that of Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines, proposed in mid-April by the two carriers. United Airlines and US Airways are reportedly talking about merging as well.

However, Delta and Northwest are talking about largely keeping their current systems, with little capacity reduction.

Another analyst, Michael Linenberg of Merrill Lynch, suggested that capacity reductions that go too far can increase losses in the short term, endanger needed cash flow and mess up an airline's connecting network.

This week, American said it would cut service by 11 to 12 percent, ground 75 airplanes and lay off thousands of workers. And Mr. Arpey told reporters that more cuts would be necessary if fuel prices keep rising.

On Monday, Mr. Arpey prepared his speech to shareholders, referring to $125 oil. By Wednesday's speech, prices were at $130. Later the same day, prices hit $133.

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/bus/stories/DN-Airlines_23bus.ART.State.Edition2.45e5955.html


Linkback - An airline industry never designed for $130 oil
]]> 5/25/2008 7:55:03 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4508 4508
While many people across this great nation get ready to celebrate the first weekend of summer, most people don't have any plans to vacation this year. Based on the recent Expedia Vacation Deprivation(TM) survey, Americans not only receive the smallest amount of vacation time among their counterparts abroad, they often fail to use it. The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) challenges the vacation-deprived among us take the first step to recovery and admit there is a problem.

"I'm dismayed but not surprised at these findings," said Howard Nusbaum, ARDA president and CEO. "People need to realize that taking time to unwind is an important health benefit. Relieving stress, spending family time and re-energizing will pay dividends throughout the rest of the year."

The second step in vacation deprivation recovery is to ensure that the vacation is the best possible experience it can be. ARDA member resorts provide spacious accommodations in stunning locations with all the comforts of home. A timeshare resort offers hassle-free second home vacations designed with the sole purpose of making the most of precious leisure time together.

Expedia found that despite reporting an average of 14 paid vacation days again this year, the same as 2007 and two more than in 2005, an estimated 47.5MM Americans will not use all of their vacation days. Again this year, employed U.S. adults will leave an average of three vacation days on the table, in essence giving back more than 460 million vacation days in 2008.

Everyone deserves not only a vacation, but a better vacation. For more information contact ARDA at www.arda.org.

http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/take-two-weeks-and-call-me-in-the-morning,404238.shtml



Linkback - ARDA agrees that Americans are vacation deprived
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Linkback - 1 Week Sunset Harbour Club
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There were 20 travel website entrepreneurs to start with, all keen to show off their new ideas at a travel technology show in London this week.

The ideas range from social networking sites to publishing, sports travel and cruise review sites. It appears to be boom time - again - for travel online.

Four travel entrepreneurs came up with a shortlist of four - they then repitched in front of all delegates who voted on the winner - Privatefly, a website that collates 700 private jet operators in one place.

(The new site will launch in three weeks time and can be seen at www.privatefly.com/development)

The winners got nothing but a bottle of champagne and some free exhibition space from show organisers Eye For Travel - but the praise of their peers will go a long way to helping Privatefly take off.

The site allows private jet bookings online. It is the first to pull together all the different aircraft operators, and the first to cover the UK and continental Europe. The company doesn't own or manage aircraft.

Last year there were 764,000 private jet flights within Europe, eight per cent of all commercial flights - but two-fifths of all private jet flights were empty.

"Customers will be able to search and compare the whole market," said Adam Twiddell, an ex-RAF pilot who founded the site.

Its first flight was to carry oil executives to Greenland and Iceland in July, 2007 - now the company is looking for investment to employ brokers and IT support.

http://travel.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/travel/news/article3979970.ece


Linkback - The hottest website in travel?
]]> 5/24/2008 7:47:18 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4505 4505
European Commissioner responsible for consumer protection, Mrs. Meglena Kuneva, will open the 97th bi-annual meeting of ECTAA held in Sofia and organised by its Bulgarian Member, ABTTA, on 27-28 May. Mrs. Kuneva will present her views on the upcoming revision of the EU consumer protection legislations.

Over the last 20 years, various European Directives on consumer protection, usually referred to as the EU consumer acquis, have granted specific rights to consumers concerning among others distance selling, doorstep selling, unfair contract terms, timeshare and package travel.

The Package Travel Directive, which is part of the EU acquis, is of major importance for the Members of ECTAA and their customers. The Directive aims at protecting consumers who purchase travel packages by ensuring that they get proper information before and after their purchase, that the services included in the package will be performed according to the contract and if not, that appropriate remedies are provided. But most importantly, consumers benefit from a financial guarantee against the bankruptcy of their package travel provider.

ECTAA welcomes the review of the acquis that is currently undertaken because it is essential that EU legislation is adapted to current and foreseeable market developments in order to ensure effective protection of consumers as well as fair competition within the EU. In particular it is important that the obligations resulting from the consumer protection legislation is extended to all providers who sell in their own name any form of combination of travel services.

Said ECTAA President, Jan Van Steen: “In recent years there has been a shift in consumers’ buying habits. Many continue to buy their package holidays, but an increasing number of them buy separate travel services from various providers. It is therefore essential that all consumers benefit from the same protection whatever their booking channel and that all providers operate on a level playing field.”

http://www.traveldailynews.com/pages/show_page/25877


Linkback - Consumers at the heart of the meeting of ECTAA
]]> 5/24/2008 7:44:44 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4504 4504 My father-in-law has been contacted by a company called 'secure leisure - London' by a guy called Roger Williams to sell his timeshare. I have searched on this forum and google and nothing has come up.Anybody know anything about them?

Linkback - Secure leisure
]]> 5/23/2008 9:11:34 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4503 4503 All I have to do is give her 1200 euros (approx £955)which she will take from my credit card[V]
But I will get that money back when the sale is done....yeah right[:0]

This woman must think I have just fallen out of the stupid tree!

She also told me that her company www.worldnetworkingsales.com
is a member of O.T.R.O which is the Official Timeshare Resales Organisation www.officialtimeshares.com
She says that there are only Four companies that get OTRO seal of approval in the UK. I suspect that amongst the others will be Global networking sales and Greystone leisure and travel and Dunstar leisure and travel...All of which seem to be linked together not suprisingly[;)]

Anyone else had dealings recently with W.N.S

Linkback - World networking sales
]]> 5/22/2008 6:30:37 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4502 4502
Jason Tremblay, CEO of Sell My Timeshare NOW says, "People want to spend their hard earned dollars on in-demand timeshare properties, where resort maintenance is excellent, and timeshare exchange or timeshare resale opportunities should remain solid."

This year's HOT 100 list is based on a record number of offers to buy or rent timeshare placed through the Sell My Timeshare NOW website. These 100 properties attracted a total of 48,532 offers in 2007.

The list indicates consistency among the leaders at the top, with this year's top eight all appearing in last year's top ten. Notably, WorldMark by Wyndham, multi-destination timeshare has jumped from seventh on the previous list, to claim the top spot at number one for this year. New to the top ten are the Manhattan Club and Marriott timeshare's Ko Olina Beach Club in Oahu.

For high-demand destinations, Hawaii timeshares claimed four of the top ten spots. In addition to the Ko Olina Beach Club, the list includes Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas, Diamond Resorts Ka'anapali Beach Club and Marriott timeshare's Maui Ocean Club, all in Maui.

The timeshare resort brand that dominated the top ten list was definitely Marriott , also known as Marriott Vacation Club. Marriott's Aruba Surf Club, Maui Ocean Club, Newport Coast Villas and Ko Olina Beach Club accounted for the most properties under one timeshare brand.

Here is the top ten from the Sell My Timeshare NOW HOT 100:

1. WorldMark by Wyndham, (Multi-Destination)

2. Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas, Maui, Hawaii U.S.A.

3. Orange Lake's West Village, Orlando, Florida U.S.A.

4. Marriott Timeshare's Aruba Surf Club, Palm Beach, Aruba

5. Diamond Resorts Ka'anapali Beach Club, Maui, Hawaii U.S.A.

6. Marriott Timeshare's Maui Ocean Club, Maui, Hawaii U.S.A.

7. Marriott Timeshare's Newport Coast Villas, Newport Coast, California U.S.A.

8. Harborside Resort at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

9. Manhattan Club, New York, New York U.S.A.

10. Marriott Timeshare's Ko Olina Beach Club, Oahu, Hawaii U.S.A.

To view all 100 timeshare resorts listed in the Hot 100, click Sell My Timeshare NOW HOT 100 (http://www.sellmytimesharenow.com/media/pdf/hot-100.pdf).

Sell My Timeshare NOW's Director of Sales, Rosanne Luba, explains, "Many people want to know which timeshare resales other timeshare owners are buying. They ask us because they are interested in exchange or in resale value. This list makes it easy to see what consumers are asking for when it comes to name as well as location."

Since the company was founded, less than five years ago, Sell My Timeshare NOW has risen to be the recognized global leader in the advertising and marketing of timeshare resales and rentals via the Internet, averaging over 2 million website visitors per month.

http://www.timesharesdaily.com/index.php/20080521139/Latest/HOT-100-Timeshare-List-Released-Just-In-Time-for-Summer.html


Linkback - HOT 100 Timeshare List Released
]]> 5/22/2008 7:11:28 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4501 4501
This weekend, thousands of Brits will jet off for some early summer sunshine over the half-term break.

But those heading to European destinations may struggle to stretch their spending money as prices for essentials have shot up.

The strong Euro against the pound could end up costing many families dearly.

Greece is one of the hardest-hit countries, where almost all of the holiday basics from drinks and eating out to ice creams are more expensive than last summer.

Suntan lotion has almost doubled in price, from £8 to £15, a bottle of wine has gone up by £2.50 to £10, and ice creams for the kids will set parents back £2 each, up from just 80p last year.

According to holiday giant Thomas Cook, Goa continues to offer the lowest prices of any package-holiday destination with a bottle of beer costings just 70p, compared to £2 in Bulgaria and a whopping £3.50 in Greece.

Spain, the most popular hot spot for Brits, now comes out as one of the cheaper shorthaul destinations, with many prices lower than Bulgaria and Turkey. It offers the best deals on car hire - almost £100 cheaper per week than Greece. And prices for wine and eating out beat those of the Algarve, Greece, Italy and Turkey.

Italy may seem a good deal, but for those who like to eat out it is the most expensive, with the average meal costing £21 per person.

A family of four will have to find a whopping £588 just to eat out each night on a seven - night break. In Spain, the bill would be £392, almost £200 less.

The good news for those heading abroad is that it would be more expensive to enjoy the same treats at home. Prices for eating out, and drinking beer and spirits are at the top end of the price scale. With a bottle of wine hitting £14 - almost double the price in Spain and £13.10 more than Bulgaria.

So, how far will your spending money go on your next holiday? We've teamed up with Thomas Cook to bring you the costs of 10 holiday basics in European destinations (and Florida and Goa), to help you choose your next holiday wisely.

SAVE ON YOUR SPENDING MONEY

Buy currency before you go through your bank not at the airport.

Get credit card purchases charged in local currency, rather than sterling.

Go to restaurants and bars away from the tourist areas.

Buy soft drinks and ice creams in supermarkets, rather than restaurants.

Don't buy duty-free at the airport. Prices in the resort can work out cheaper.

HAVEN'T BOOKED YET?

Don't leave it too late. Capacity's been cut by major operators, so there won't be the glut of bargains.

Think about all-inclusive.

Look outside of Euroland to places like Egypt. The basic holiday cost may be more expensive, but with cheaper prices in resorts you're still quids in.

For Europe it may be cheaper to book a package - prices were set 18 months ago. But even if you've booked, you could face surcharges.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/money/mirrormoney/2008/05/21/summer-holidays-needn-t-costa-lot-89520-20424595/


Linkback - Summer holidays needn't Costa lot
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In addition, the Gulf airlines have marketing muscle. Dubai airline Emirates sponsors a range of sports events and teams around the world, including Arsenal FC and its stadium, while Abu Dhabi rival Etihad has just signed a deal with the Ferrari Formula One team.

Moreover, the airlines’ hubs are positioned at what Etihad chief executive James Hogan describes as ‘the crossroads of the world’ , the geographical centre-point between East and West, leaving them ideally placed to serve the rapidly developing economies of India and China.

It is not surprising, then, that these carriers exude a confidence that makes the more established European airlines, not least British Airways, whose problems with Terminal 5 are just the latest in a catalogue of difficulties, look like rabbits frozen in the headlights.

“The Gulf airlines have built a reputation for distinctiveness, quality and luxury. They are more aspirational than US or European carriers,” says Richard Cope, senior travel analyst at Mintel. Conversely, he adds, the brand identities of some Western carriers are confused . “What does BA mean to people now, for example?” he asks. “It is perceived as vaguely traditional and upmarket, certainly for its business class and long-haul routes, but, at the same time, it gets involved in short-haul price wars. Its brand identity, which is closely associated with service and being well-organised , has been severely compromised by events such as the T5 debacle.”

Colin Shaddick, director and founding partner of Continental Research, argues that Western carriers have a loyal base of customers who would choose them over Gulf carriers on routes served by both. Yet, those who do switch are won over by the excellent service, polite and experienced crews and competitive prices offered by the latter.

But Paul Charles, director of communications at Virgin Atlantic , believes the threat from the Gulf airlines is overplayed. His airline competes with Emirates on the London-Dubai route and he questions the demand for the extra capacity the Gulf airlines are creating, given that the market is forecast to grow at only 3% over the next two years. He adds that while customers may feel reassured by the range of nationalities employed as crew on the Gulf airlines , the work involved in forging a consistent cultural style is considerable.

Environmental concerns, he says, could also come into play. “We hope more people will choose to fly with carriers that take the environment seriously ,” says Charles.

“You have to question the Gulf airlines’ commitment to cutting emissions when their economies are built on oil.” Furthermore , Charles argues that brand reputation cannot be ‘bought’ ; while big marketing budgets may win exposure, he says, building trust and a reputation for customer service, best-value fares and products takes years. Unfortunately, as BA is learning to its cost, it can take a fraction of the time for a positive reputation to be destroyed.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/Brand_Equity_/Gulf_airlines_force_a_flight_for_survival/articleshow/3057993.cms


Linkback - Gulf airlines force a 'flight' for survival
]]> 5/22/2008 7:04:58 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4499 4499 Hi, I am new to this site and signed on because I thought I saw a topic on solbookers but cannot find it.

Does anyone know if solbookers.com is a reputable resale company or am I about to be ripped off.

Linkback - solbookers.com
]]> 5/21/2008 4:10:22 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4498 4498
I know there is a posting about a company with a website: www.warehouseproperties.eu but they denied all knowledge of such a company. Has anyone heard of this company?

They don't appear genuine to me as they offered a price more than double the normal market rate.

Linkback - Warehouse Properties - Scam?
]]> 5/21/2008 2:43:49 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4497 4497 Alos available at same resort week 17 for rent 2009 £250 or sale £400.

Linkback - For Rent or Sale
]]> 5/21/2008 12:39:44 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4496 4496
saying that they are working with the European Consumer Association (i've had this line before and i think i found that the ECA were also part of a scam company -cant remember who it was with tho)

anyway the line is that i need to fly to Tenerife and stay in one of their resorts !!!! go to a meeting with consultants who would get money back - oh eventually got from him that there was an upfront admin fee of 70 quid... now to me this sounds like they want to get me out there to view there properties and try and scam me for a timeshare. so i asked him to give me some information - web addresses so i could do some research on them, he went very quite and said he doesn't have that info and it would be sent out by susan from the Real (note the initials of this company RCI) but that info would only be sent out once i'd booked flights and arranged to go out there... good grief surely he should have this basic info, nearly started to laugh as cold calls go it was a joke not very convincing - having said that, i got caught by DVSI many years ago and have written it off, i've had many cold calls from various companies saying they can help out, so now i'm very suspicious, i let them waffle on about what they can do etc
tell them i'll do my own research - which involves coming here.

Look like - no most definatley is a scam, so beware.

sorry i can't remeber the guys name who called me but it was from spain, his number is 0034 971 465555 (at least thats what he told me)

just thought i'd give you all some warning, as it looks like a fairly new one.

thanks



Linkback - Real Consultancy International
]]> 5/21/2008 11:21:47 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4495 4495
A: If the booking was made prior to the invoice of the supplemental bill and their management fees are fully up-to-date, they can relinquish their membership and still travel. If a booking was made after the supplemental billing, the supplemental billing would need to be paid in order to make a new reservation.


Q: If members choose to relinquish their points, could they still use this year’s points if their management fees and levy have been paid?

A: Yes, but they MUST make the booking using their points prior to relinquishing their membership. Once the membership is foreclosed the account becomes inoperable and further bookings cannot be made.


Q: If members pay their fees by direct debit and they relinquish their membership, will the direct debit stop?

A: If members have used some of their points and want to relinquish their membership, then as long as the payments made to date covered the proportion of the points used, they could relinquish at that time. If not, then members would be asked to bring their management fees up-to-date before they could relinquish. Each member’s situation will be considered individually and advised accordingly.


Q: If members have a holiday booked and they want to take it but they want to give their points back, would they need to continue paying the direct debit for this year?

A: Yes. If members have a future reservation, then they would be asked to bring their management fees up-to-date before they could relinquish. Each member’s situation will be considered individually and advised accordingly.


Q: If members were using last year’s points for a reservation, how would that effect relinquishing their membership?

A: If a member is using a combination of 2007 and 2008 points, then we would consider these situations on an individual basis ensuring that the member had paid the appropriate proportion of the management fees.


Q: If members are relinquishing their membership, is it possible that members who want more points take some of the relinquished points?

A: At this time, Diamond Resorts International® will not be offering relinquished points back to the existing membership.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Linkback - Relinquishing your membership FAQs
]]> 5/20/2008 9:31:39 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4494 4494
The time-share holiday rights of some 1.5 million European families will soon be better protected. A draft EU directive, unanimously approved by the EU internal market committee on Monday, updates rules that are 14 years old so as to address consumer concerns and revitalise a business that is performing below potential.

Time share deals, which allow buyers to occupy holiday accommodation for specific periods in alternation with others, have won millions of takers worldwide since the 1970s. They are often sold as a cost-effective alternative to renting, hotels or a second residence. According to data from the Organisation for Timeshare in Europe (OTE), in 2001 there were 1.452 million holiday centres in 25 European countries, 1.4 million families using this kind of accommodation and 200,000 Europeans employed in this sector, with sales totalling €2.3 billion per year.

Since 1994, an EU directive has helped to harmonise time-share rules across the EU, but litigation between operators and holidaymakers is still frequent, notably about conditions and quality of service. Furthermore, new holiday products and services, similar to time share but not covered by the directive, have emerged. These include new types of holiday clubs giving holidaymakers reductions in the cost of their stays if they take out a subscription. Some of these new contracts clearly circumvent consumer protection rules.


More deals covered by consumer protection rules

The revised draft directive, which supplements the general rules introduced by the recent directive on unfair commercial practices, will cover both time-share packages and new products that so far have escaped any legislation. Consumers will be better protected by rules that clearly state their rights, and will find it easier to go to court. Honest operators will no longer have to face unfair competition from fraudsters.

The text strengthens a series of existing harmonised provisions (right of withdrawal, choice of contract language, prohibition on deposits during the reflection period, pre-contractual information). Some consumer rights will be widened, e.g. MEPs would like to extend the withdrawal period to 21 days (compared with 10 days now and 14 proposed in the Commission draft).

MEPs did not back a proposal by rapporteur Toine Manders (ALDE, NL), who would have preferred a regulation (directly applicable throughout the EU), rather than a directive (which must be transposed into Member States' national laws), so as to achieve more thorough harmonisation.

By contrast, they advocated a higher standard of consumer protection for long-term holiday deals (e.g. clubs), to be paid for in stages, than for traditional time-share contracts. But, not wishing to push this distinction too far, they rejected amendments that would have introduced more restrictive provisions (obligation to register agencies, national registers of service providers, mandatory civil liability insurance), leaving it to Member States to decide whether to supplement their laws in this area.

Clearer rules for holiday firms

The proposal aims to enhance consumer confidence and legal clarity, which are essential to the growth of this promising sector, via simplified EU-wide rules. Most time-share holidaymakers are from Germany or the UK, where most of the agencies are located, whereas most of the holiday centres are located in Spain, Italy, France and Portugal.

http://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/expert/infopress_page/063-29252-140-05-21-911-20080519IPR29251-19-05-2008-2008-false/default_en.htm



Linkback - Timeshare - clearer rules soon throughout the EU
]]> 5/20/2008 5:58:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4493 4493
Emaar Hospitality Group LLC, a business subsidiary of Emaar Properties PJSC, announces plans to enter to the timeshare market, led by the growing demand from tourists for spacious and personalised luxury accommodation in the city.

A regional pioneer in the fast-growing tourism segment, Emaar Hospitality Group will soon unveil its timeshare roster encompassing serviced residences and custom-designed resorts in Dubai.

Emaar Hospitality Group also plans to expand its timeshare business to other countries in the region too, where the company is currently developing master-planned communities with hospitality & leisure components. These key timeshare markets will include Morocco, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, India, Turkey, Egypt and Indonesia.

Mr Mohamed Ali Alabbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties PJSC, said: "The timeshare market in Dubai is poised for exponential growth with booming inbound tourists driving the demand for spacious accommodation that hotels cannot fully meet."

He added: "Emaar already has an extensive hospitality & leisure portfolio featuring several hotels and serviced apartments. Additionally, we plan to develop dedicated timeshare resorts. Emaar is finalizing the modalities of the timeshare business in line with the guidelines of the Dubai Government and also putting in place a special team to support the initiative."

Originally a European concept, timeshare is a generic term to describe a business model where a property owner sells ‘time-slices' of property to customers. Timeshare projects are projected to generate nearly four times returns compared to traditional real estate, Buy-to-use-and-let and fractional ownership.

Legal framework being developed by Dubai Government for the timeshare concept in Dubai will significantly assist the industry, adding to the vast range of hospitality elements already on offer within the bustling city.

Mr Marc Dardenne, Chief Executive Officer, Emaar Hospitality Group, explained: "A recent survey by NorthCourse Research Firm reveals that Dubai, followed by Sharm El Sheikh and Makkah, is the most preferred timeshare location in the Middle East region. Emaar Hospitality Group is pioneering the move to this promising market, which also brings in the benefits of guaranteed room revenues and assured occupancy post-opening to resorts that we are planning exclusively for timeshare business."

The World Tourism & Travel Council projects tourist arrival of 14 million by year 2015 to the UAE. Further powering the tourism growth is the investments in new airports and hospitality infrastructure.

"Dubai is one of the few destinations that offer the three main attractions preferred by timeshare owners - golf, beach and city-life. Emaar Hospitality Group's timeshare properties will, therefore, appeal to a wide range of holidaymakers not only from the Middle East but also from Europe, a key feeder market for Dubai's tourism industry," said Mr Dardenne.

He added: "Better regulation has been the key challenge of the timeshare business in Europe, where the business is most booming with over 1.3 million timeshare owners as of 2006. However, Dubai is already one-step ahead in terms of timeshare business by having a governmental framework to follow. This will give impetus to Emaar Hospitality in adopting a structured approach with a focus on segmentation of timeshare business - the key to meeting the requirements of Dubai's eclectic tourist profile."

Emaar Hospitality Group owns and manages a diversified portfolio of hospitality assets such as hotels, serviced residences, golf resorts, polo and equestrian club, recreation clubs, and the Dubai Marina Yacht Club and Marinas.

http://www.arabianbusiness.com/press_releases/detail/19197



Linkback - Emaar Hospitality Group plans for timeshare market
]]> 5/20/2008 5:55:16 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4492 4492
Linkback - Fairways, Tenerife
]]> 5/20/2008 3:49:14 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4491 4491
Linkback - holiday network services
]]> 5/20/2008 2:43:04 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4490 4490 I've seen that Flambards theme park is pretty close and so will probably give that a try (especially as we can use our Tesco Clubcard vouchers to get in).
Last time we went to Cornwall we stayed in the north of the county and the kids loved Brocklands Adventure Park and The Big Sheep, but I don't really want to travel all the way up there this time, so I'm looking for anything similar in the south.

Any ideas much appreciated.

Linkback - Where to go In Cornwall with Kids
]]> 5/20/2008 2:20:59 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4489 4489 Buyer to meet all costs.

Linkback - 10,000 points for sale
]]> 5/20/2008 1:43:59 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4488 4488
Please look at the announcement entitled "Membership Choice" in the General section of this forum for more details

Linkback - DRI - offer to cancel membership - no penalty
]]> 5/20/2008 11:18:46 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4487 4487

May 18, 2008


The recent flurry of comments on the various blogs in Europe has made it apparent that there is much confusion about the relationships between the various entities surrounding your membership in Europe.

The following outlines those relationships in an attempt to bring some clarity to the situation.

The main companies in Europe are:

#61623; Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd.
#61623; Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd.
#61623; Diamond Resorts Management Ltd.

Each plays a very different and distinct role.

Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd.: Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd.: This entity is often referred to as the Club. Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd. is a private company limited by guarantee. It does not have any shares. Nor does it trade or make any profits or losses. This type of company is often used for non-commercial organisations or for incorporated Members’ associations (as in the case of Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd.). By redeeming the points that they own, Members are entitled to use the accommodation assets in the portfolio. These usage rights terminate in the year 2054 and a large proportion of the inventory reverts back to Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd. In the meantime, such usage rights are subject to payment by the Members of their Management fees together with any other charges that are properly levied. The majority of the accommodation assets in the Collection’s portfolio are held in trust for the benefit of the Members by an independent Trustee (First National Trustee Company Ltd.), thereby ensuring that their interests are safeguarded.

Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd: This is the main trading company of the European group. This company buys new resorts for inclusion in the Club's portfolio and is actively involved in developing the services made available to the Members. It is sometimes referred to as ‘the Developer’ and is the Founder Member of Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd. In exchange for putting accommodation acquired by it into trust with First National Trustee Company Ltd, it is in return allocated points which it may then sell to new and existing Members. This means that it is itself a Member of Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd - owning a large number of unsold points upon which it must pay the management fees. The management fees are calculated in the same way that the management fees are calculated on the points owned by ordinary Members.

Diamond Resorts Management Ltd: This is the company that administers the points system and manages all of the owned resorts on behalf of the Members of Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd. This company uses the management fee income received from the Members to pay the day to day resort operating costs. It also arranges and manages the unit refurbishment programme from the sinking fund and oversees other capital works that may be necessary at specific resorts and which are paid for by a special resort levy. Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd. Members pay their management fees to Diamond Resorts Management Ltd.

As a limited company, Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd. has a Board of Directors. There are five directors on the Board plus a company secretary. The Directors representing the interests of Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd. are Suzana Gomercic Bajtek, Marty Kandel and Sarah J Hulme. In addition, there are two elected non executive Member directors, Harry Taylor and John Davey. These are active points Members, elected by other Members to represent them. The non executive directors are elected for a term of three years and are able to stand for re-election for a further term.

The Board meets formally three times a year as well as at the Annual General Meeting. At these meetings the accounts, budgets, management fees and member issues or complaints will be discussed and reviewed. In addition to these formal board meetings, various informal meetings and conference calls take place throughout the year, and there have been a number of additional meetings that have taken place this year, as the impact of the strong Euro was monitored and discussed.

Each year there is an Annual General Meeting (AGM). This is required in accordance with company law and the Articles of Association of Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd. sets out the rules that must be complied with for the holding of the AGM.

The process by which all these above entities relate to each other is explained as follows:

1. Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd. and its associated companies buy resorts. A legal interest in the accommodation at the resorts is then given to First National Trustee Company, Ltd (FNTC).

2. FNTC puts the accommodation interest into trust for the Members of Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd.

3. FNTC assesses the points value of the accommodation that has been put into trust, and in return for the transfer to it of the legal interest in the property, confers upon Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd. and its associates the right to sell an equivalent number of points.

4. Points are sold to customers.

5. Customers become Members of Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd.

6. Members pay management fees to Diamond Resorts Management Ltd. which is contracted to operate and maintain the resorts.

When resorts are purchased, they often already have fixed and floating week owners together with an existing Resort Committee. Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd. place the unsold weeks of accommodation into trust and can similarly sell points against this inventory. The fixed and floating week owners obviously retain their ownership in the weeks that they had previously bought. This arrangement means therefore that the fixed and floating week owners run the resort in conjunction with Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd. Their Committee continues to have regular meetings and set budgets.

The resort committee usually consists of three elected representatives of the fixed and floating week owners (where applicable), one representative of Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd. points, and two representatives of the Founder Member (Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd.).

The management fees are calculated by agreeing upon a budget with each of the resort's Committees (where there is a committee).

1. Each resort budget is proposed to the resort Committee. After much discussion and analysis a final budget is approved.

2. An appropriate proportion of the resort’s budget in so far as it relates to accommodation that will be utilised by the Members of Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd. is calculated. Similar assessments are done for all of the resorts and these costs are then consolidated. Any additional costs that are going to be necessary to run the European Collection are added on and the proposed budget is then presented to the Board of Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd. As previously mentioned, the Board includes two Member representatives. Again after much discussion and analysis, a final budget is approved.

3. The individual management fees per point are calculated and the Members of Diamond Resorts European Collection Ltd. (including Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd.) are invoiced for the points that they own along with the base membership fee.


We trust that this letter helps to clarify some of the confusion that has been apparent through recent postings on the various blogs and forums.

Sincerely,



__________________________
Marty Kandel
President, European Operations
Diamond Resorts International®



Linkback - Entity Relationships
]]> 5/20/2008 7:27:40 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4486 4486 A Letter from Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd. regarding expected standards of communication between and among members and between members and Diamond Resorts International®.

May 19, 2008


As members of Diamond Resorts European Collection, Ltd. extensive communications occur each day between members, the developer and the management company. This communication takes place in the form of written letters, telephone conversations, and in-person meetings and, ever increasingly, through e-mail and postings on various websites and blogs, including the member’s forum sponsored by Diamond Resorts International® (DRI) for use by members.

One of the benefits about living in an open society is that each of us is free to express our opinions without regard to censorship or repercussions from a governmental entity. That right however does not mean that common courtesy and politeness should not be exercised at all times, even if there is a legitimate disagreement amongst the parties.

Recently, a number of our DRI staff have been subjected to the use of language, both written and verbal, by certain members which is nothing short of unacceptable. These members have taken to using abusive, unprofessional, threatening, and offensive language which simply cannot be tolerated in a civilized society. Additionally, some members have made accusations which are full of untruths and are slanderous to the people to whom they are directed.

At DRI we value all of our members, owners, team members, and guests. However, this type of behaviour towards members of DRI staff and other members simply will not be tolerated. We must ask that all communications, both written and verbal, be expressed in a professional and courteous manner. Membership is subject to the rules and regulations of Diamond Resorts European Collection, Ltd. Violation of these rules and regulations will result in the appropriate action being taken. Going forwards, any member who uses abusive tactics will have their membership suspended and potentially cancelled. During any period of suspension or in the event of permanent cancellation, the said member will be unable to use their membership and may even face further legal action if deemed appropriate.

It is our sincere hope that we can continue an open, healthy and productive discourse without profanity, libelous statements and downright rudeness. Diamond Resorts International® is always willing to listen to its members and depends on feedback to ensure that we are always in touch with member’s needs, wants and desires. However, a common level of professional courtesy, decency and decorum is appreciated and expected.



Sincerely,



_________________________
Martin Kandel
President, European Operations
Diamond Resorts International®


Linkback - Expected standards of behaviour
]]> 5/20/2008 7:24:48 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4485 4485 A Letter to Members of Diamond Resorts European Collection, Ltd. regarding the recent Supplemental Billing and the opportunity for Members to relinquish their Membership if they so choose.
May 19, 2008

Diamond Resorts Management, Ltd. is the Management Company for Diamond Resorts European Collection, Ltd. and recently issued a supplemental billing by way of a Special Levy to all Members, including Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd. Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd. (otherwise known as the “Developer”), is the largest points Member and subject to the same fee obligations as any other Member.

The supplemental billing has arisen due to the negative impact of the exchange rate of the Pound Sterling to the Euro which has experienced an unprecedented decline over the past 6 months. As the majority of the units are located in continental Europe, the impact of the exchange rate has been substantial, and whilst operating budgets have been reviewed and cost efficiencies implemented, it has been necessary to raise additional funds from Members, including Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd. It is important to note that fees assessed are for the benefit of the Members to maintain resort operations for the year and do not go to the financial gain of the Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd. or its affiliates. This exchange rate decline has impacted all businesses that operate in Europe resulting in many products and services now being more expensive than they were a year ago. This has included package holidays to Europe, and these increases have been widely reported in the press.

This billing also included a fixed charge to all Members for new and future services, products and benefits. These additional benefits have been made available to Members (and will continue to be made available in the future) as a result of several surveys which were conducted to ascertain what was important to and wanted by the Members. This information has provided essential guidance to the management team when making decisions regarding services and benefits.

Diamond Resorts Management, Ltd., has full legal authority to assess such fees and does so acting upon the authority vested in it by the various resort committees and the Diamond Resorts Management, Ltd, Board of Directors.

Some Members have expressed concern about their ability and/or willingness to pay the additional fees. Various payment options for the supplemental billing have been provided, including payment by credit card, cheque and spreading payments across the next 6 months using Premium Credit services.

Notwithstanding these payment options Diamond Resorts Management, Ltd. recognizes that there may be Members who for various reasons, including retirement, illness, loss of income, etc., may find the extra cost of this supplemental billing to be a burden that they can no longer afford to absorb. Accordingly, the Management Company has agreed with Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd, that any Member who may wish to surrender his or her membership may do so at no cost to them, as would normally occur for unpaid management fees, and that Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd will assume responsibility for the outstanding and future management fees.

Should you choose to surrender your membership at no cost to you, simply inform Diamond Resorts Management, Ltd. by contacting them at owneroperations@diamondresorts.com or 0845 359 0007 or Owner Operations, Citrus House, Caton Road, Lancaster, LA1 3UA within the next 30 days. Upon receipt, your membership shall terminate and you will be released from all liabilities owed to Diamond Resorts Management Ltd. including outstanding and future management fees.

Please be assured that Diamond Resorts Management, Ltd. values each and every Member and sincerely hopes that each and every Member will continue to enjoy the products and services provided.

Sincerely,

__________________________
Marty Kandel
President, European Operations
Diamond Resorts


Linkback - Membership Choice
]]> 5/20/2008 7:20:09 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4484 4484 Guess who it is:



More of the picture to be revealed daily.

The more that is revealed the less the reward.

Today is it worth 5 points!





Linkback - Guess who it is - 19th May
]]> 5/19/2008 8:36:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4483 4483
Travel insurers are always happy to take our money, but when the tables are turned, there seem to be dozens of reasons to avoid settling a claim.

One of the strangest I’ve heard came from a reader who had been travelling in Finland recently, and who needed urgent medical attention for suspected thrombosis. There was no time to alert her insurer beforehand, as she was rushed into hospital. But when her daughter called Europ Assistance the following day, the advice was to pay for her treatment on the spot and to claim back the costs on her return to Britain.

Arriving home after three days in hospital, the reader submitted a claim for about £500 with all the required documents, including the three-page medical report from the hospital.

Initially, Europ Assistance said the claim would be handled within five days. However, the process stalled. Eventually she was told the company could only settle if the reader agreed to pay the costs of translating the medical report from Finnish into English.

“Nowhere in their policy was it mentioned that if I required medical attention abroad, the records must be translated into English at my own expense,” she says.

Asked whether this was normal company procedure and whether the requirement was included as standard in its policy small print, a Europ Assistance spokesman admitted he wasn’t sure. However, he did say that there were certain languages that couldn’t be handled in-house, as the company used staff with foreign language skills rather than professional translators.

As a rule, he said, it usually asked for reports in English. “This case is frustrating because the doctor’s report needn’t have been written in Finnish had the client requested otherwise, but she didn’t so we found ourselves in a stalemate situation,” he said.

Europ Assistance eventually paid the claim, but what can you do to minimise the chances of being tripped up by unforeseen requirements if you are ill or injured abroad? Here are the 10 key points to bear in mind:

Make sure you have a good policy. Without proper medical cover, the costs for treatment abroad can spiral. Look for £2 million cover for medical expenses and repatriation, a 24-hour emergency help line and the backup services of an assistance company.

Check whether your policy allows extra benefits, such as cover for accommodation and living expenses for a companion to stay nearby.

Travel with a copy of your policy, as well as a wallet-sized card with the 24-hour help line number supplied by your insurer as proof of insurance.

Take a EHIC (applications are available from post offices or the Department of Health on 0870 155 5455 or www.dh.gov.uk). This will entitle you to free or reduced costs for treatment in EU countries and may reduce an excess payment.

Always talk to your insurer before treatment, if you can. Ask exactly what will be required for a successful claim. If the costs are going to be high, you may need to get the claim validated. The assistance company can put you in touch with a local agent to liaise with doctors and make sure you are treated at an approved hospital or clinic.

If you are on a package holiday, your holiday rep has a duty of care towards you and should help coordinate treatment.

If you are travelling independently, you can turn to the local British consul for help and advice.

The assistance company is very unlikely to fly you home, but will aim to stabilise your condition and try to get you back on your booked flight. If you’re worried about the treatment you’re given, ask to be transferred to another hospital, and keep diary notes in case you need to complain later.

Keep all receipts as well as tickets and airline booking confirmations to support your insurance claim.

If you’re in dispute with your insurer over a claim, ask the Financial Ombudsman (0845 080 1800; www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk) to look into the issue.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/asktheexperts/1987068/Sophie-Butler-Travel-advice.html


Linkback - Holiday Insurance - Don't get tripped up
]]> 5/19/2008 6:29:46 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4482 4482
"Do you know anything about a vacation club promotion in Acapulco? We won a one-week stay there but we do not know anything about the property. Airfare is expensive so we do not want to go unless it's a nice place."
The short answer is the bigger the "win," the bigger the risk. This message really brings up two separate but related questions: whether a given vacation club site is a good idea, and whether a specific promotion is genuine or a scam.

Vacation clubs equal timeshares

For the most part, a "vacation club" is usually no more than a timeshare program in a slightly different costume. And they share the same advantages and disadvantages of timeshares, as I've previously examined. Briefly, you buy into a program that gives you access to a resort condo in one-week intervals or multiples of one week. You pay an up-front entry fee plus annual "maintenance" fees plus an occupancy payment. Most timeshares and almost all vacation clubs allow you to trade your base interval among several or even several hundred different resorts. Depending on particulars, a club membership may cost more or less than renting a conventional vacation property in the same or equivalent condo complexes.

If you buy in at the developer's asking price, a timeshare "investment" almost always loses value. That's why most experts recommend buying a resale rather than a "retail" timeshare.

Timeshare evaluations

Because most timeshare units are in resort locations, you'll have no trouble finding all you need to know about the area's general location, climate, activities, and such. Get online or get a good guidebook.

As to the specific resort, you're usually able to find some sort of independent evaluation. The resort mentioned by our reader, for example, has almost 20 firsthand evaluations plus dozens of extended discussion entries in TripAdvisor (the Internet's largest online site for travelers' hotel and resort evaluations). The majority, by the way, seem to favor the resort, with a few strong minority reports.

Scam warnings

All too often, travelers who think they've "won" something actually wind up losing—their money, their time, or both. Although I'm not aware of the particular promotion our reader cited, I can warn you about the range of possible scams you're likely to encounter:

Whenever you supposedly "win" a lottery or sweepstakes you didn't knowingly enter, there's a good chance it's a scam. Scamsters and promoters buy lists and often snag your cards out of "request more information here" or "guest" boxes. However gained, promoters use those name lists as targets for a variety of scams and deceptions. I have no idea how our reader "won" this particular deal, but it sounds a bit dicey.

The most benign "free" or heavily discounted vacation or accommodations semi-scam is a visit subsidized by an outfit trying to sell you a timeshare or vacation club membership. Their salespeople are very good at what they do, and they've refined their pitches over the years. As a result, getting a "qualified" prospect onsite for a hard-sell session is worth somewhere around $200 to $400 per visitor. So it's not unusual to find "free" weekends at timeshare resorts that require you to attend a half-day sales session. As long as you show up for the full program, you do get the free trip. The risk is that, no matter how strong you think your sales resistance is, you may end up spending tens of thousands of dollars for a membership.

A more pernicious scam offers one component of a vacation "free" or at a huge discount but marks up the price of the remaining component(s) to cover the true cost of the entire trip. The scam tipoff is simply a requirement that you buy the rest of the trip from the promoter. I've seen both variations: "free" accommodations when you buy your air ticket at the promoter's price or "free" air tickets if you buy your accommodations through the promoter. Either way, you wind up paying more than if you'd bought both separately, on your own, or bought an honest package. I can't tell whether our reader's "expensive" airfare was inflated or not, but if the deal required the reader to buy air tickets from the promoter, it was almost certainly a scam.

Also insidious: a "bait-and-switch" promotion. Sure you get the "free" accommodation, if you don't mind sharing a non-air-conditioned room over a loading dock with a few hundred cockroaches. Of course, when you complain, you're told, "If you're not happy with your room, we can upgrade you to a better room or a better resort for only $ (whatever)." And, of course, that upgrade fee is more than you'd pay for a comparable room.

A real scam tip-off is when a promotion gives you "free" room, airfare, or whatever, but requires you to pay a "registration" fee or something similar up front. If you're lucky, you'll eventually get your trip; you'll just pay more than if you'd bought an honest package. But it's more likely the promoter stalls you along for many months about the deal being "unavailable," then finally disappears entirely with your upfront payment. Unlike the others—which are misleading, but you actually get to travel—this one is out-and-out fraud. The promoter never intends to give you anything.
Too good?

Almost all of us who write about travel from a consumer standpoint agree on one basic truth: "If it looks too good to be true, it probably is." For some reason, many people will believe fantastic claims about travel that they'd reject out of hand in other consumer markets. And even if a "free" deal really doesn't have any catches, you still have to declare the value on your income tax.

Full story: http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/timeshares-freebies-or-scams.html?id=2567402



Linkback - Timeshares: freebies or scams?
]]> 5/19/2008 6:26:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4481 4481
To cut a long story short I wrote to them to complain and miraculously after a couple of phone calls they have agreed to refund me the purchase price, which is a great result. I have this offer and procedure in writing by the way.

What I need advice on is the procedure they are asking me to follow, they say I have to get my transfer of ownership signed in front of the notary public like when I bought it and pay his fee of £75. They then say that I have to deal with Anfi myself and pay the transfer fee of £250. This will take my refund down from £8400 to £8075, which I am not entirely happy about, but am I just being unrealistic wanting shot of it without any further financial loss?

They then say that when they get confirmation from Anfi they will send me my cheque.

Is this normal and do I really have to pay again to get rid of a timeshare that was sold to me after being misrepresented?

Any advice will be greatly received as I have been given a few days to think about their offer.

Thank you all in advance.

Linkback - Need cancellation advice
]]> 5/19/2008 3:56:37 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4480 4480
The commission approved annexing property from the town of Dell Prairie into the city that includes the former Captain Dix/Artist's Glen resort and land owned by Dick and Mary Buckminster and John and Betty Tonne. It also gave approval with some changes to a developer's agreement, zoning changes and a conditional use permit for the 37 to 41 buildings that will be slightly higher than the city's height limit.

Unlike most recent {banned word/phrase} in the city, the Silverleaf property is not asking for a tax incremental financing district.

Michael Brown, senior director of planning and development for Silverleaf, said the Dallas, Texas based company expects to break ground in 2009 and the buildings will be constructed over a number of years.

"Silverleaf is always looking for great vacation destinations," Brown said explaining the company's choice of the Dells. "The Dells is the premier destination in the Midwest," he said and it complements the company's Fox River Resort in Sheridan, Ill. The company also has resorts in Texas, Missouri, Georgia, Florida and Massachusetts.

According to the development agreement, when finished, the resort would have up to 632 units, a 15,000 square foot activities center, a welcome/sales center of the same size and a member services center of about 12,500 square feet. The existing buildings on the site of the resort would be demolished.

Nancy Haggerty, of Michael, Best & Friedrich, LLP, Milwaukee, representing Silverleaf before the commission, presented the outline of the developer's agreement and Brad Boettcher of General Engineering, Portage, presented the preliminary plans for the resort.
Members of the commission expressed concern that the resort would result in too much traffic on River Road.

Haggerty and Boettcher said the resort guests would use an access road from Highway 13 that would also provide access to the Chula Vista Sports Center that is adjacent to the development. They planned to meet Friday with the state Department of Transportation to get permission for the access to Highway 13.

The current entrance on River Road would remain, but Boettcher said it would be designed to discourage use except for emergencies.

"Maybe it's time to address the safety of that road (River Road)," said Commissioner, Alderperson Dan Gavinski. We all know about the number of accidents on that road." The road already has more traffic with the Chula Vista expansion, he said, adding the city should widen it by taking land from either Silverleaf or on the Department of Natural Resources' side.

City Attorney Joe Hasler said acquiring land to widen River Road could be addressed in the precise implementation plans the city will require later if the project gets city council approval.

The access road from Highway 13 should be a public road, said Public Works Director Mike Horkan. Since DOT does not to grant many access roads from 13, this would be the city's last chance to acquire a through road to River Road.

However, Haggerty said the developer is insistent that the road be private and that the company was working with Chula Vista to negotiate an easement for the Sports Center to use the road.

Commissioner Bill Brown questioned whether the city would have sufficient funds to pay for inspections of the property and to evaluate any problems such as runoff in the future.
"We haven't put that in the fee structure," said Mayor Eric Helland. "It is unfair to Silverleaf to do it now."

"We will have to do it at some time," said Bill Brown.

Haggerty noted the project would pay an $11,000 building permit fee for each building. Michael Brown said the company is willing to take out two building permits immediately.
"It's unfair to ask Silverleaf to do something, we have not asked anyone else to do," said Commissioner Dave Murray.

"I'm comfortable that there will be enough money from Silverleaf to do inspections," said Helland.

City Clerk/Treasurer Dale Darling also noted the city adjusts fees regularly and the agreement should reference the fee schedule rather than an exact dollar amount.

Bill Brown also asked if the company would call the fee, it will pay in lieu of room tax something other than a timeshare fee and asked why the agreement contained reference to dropping that fee.

"There a move in Lake Delton to change how timeshares are taxed," Haggerty said. If the state Legislature changes the law and timeshares pay room tax, Silverleaf would not want to pay the fee twice.

After discussing the agreement, the commission unanimously approved the annexation, the developer's agreement with changes, the zoning and the conditional use permits.
The commission also approved a second annexation in that same area. Field's Steak N Stein asked to be annexed to the city and the commission approved. That annexation also will go to the council Monday.

http://www.wiscnews.com/wde/news/286770



Linkback - New timeshare resort for Wisconsin
]]> 5/18/2008 8:21:59 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4479 4479
Chief executive Willie Walsh said the margin came as the airline announced a 45% increase in profits to £875 million and has also allowed it to pay out its first dividend to shareholders since 2001.

The margin was met thanks to a 3.1% increase in revenue to £8,753 million for the year ending March 31 and comes in spite of the airline paying off a fuel bill for the year which topped £2 billion.

Walsh said: “This is an outstanding financial result for the company despite rising fuel prices and significant economic slowdown in the last six months. We have achieved our goal of a 10% operating margin which I am delighted has triggered the reward scheme for our staff.

“Delivering 10% has not been easy, but we have achieved it by remaining focused on our strategy for the last six years. We tackled our pension deficit and we have strengthened the fundamentals of our balance sheet while at the same time growing a profitable business.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/05/16/27616/ba-announces-45-increase-in-profits.html


Linkback - BA announces 45% increase in profits
]]> 5/18/2008 8:15:28 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4478 4478
Linkback - 1 week Sunset Harbour Club
]]> 5/17/2008 9:54:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4477 4477 There was a possibility that we would be accused of spinning in that a positive announcement was being used on TST in order to deflect from what we all accept to be a negative financial situation for us the members.
Also of course this is not new news to us on here as Dave King went on the Arda website some weeks ago and researched how DRI had performed.
http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=9540#36406


Diamond Resorts International® wins five Gold ARDY Awards at the American Resort Development Association’s 2008 convention.
Las Vegas, Nev - May 15, 2008 -- Diamond Resorts International® (DRI), a global leader in the vacation ownership industry, was awarded five Gold ARDY Awards at the American Resort Development Association’s 2008 convention held recently in Las Vegas. The Gold ARDY Awards honor individuals and teams that are seen as industry role models and innovators in diverse areas such as sales, design, construction and marketing.

15 DRI team members and teams were nominated with winners of coveted ARDA Awards in the following categories:

- Marketing Programs
- Sales – Operational Support Staff Manager
- Administrative Manager / Team
- Logo Design
- Sales Center Materials

“We’re honored to be recognized with such prestigious awards by the premier industry association,” says Stephen J. Cloobeck, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DRI. “Recognition that our innovation, creativity, training and vision is leading the industry underscores our dominant industry role and exceptional growth opportunity.”

A memorable ARDA Gala Extravaganza, with over 100 DRI team members from all over the world in attendance, provided a perfect backdrop for the awards ceremony and DRI successes.

“This time next year I know we will be celebrating many more victories,” says Simon Crawford-Welch, Ph.D., RRP, President and COO of DRI. “DRI is fortunate to have the best products, destinations and team members in our industry. By delivering exceptional branded service to every owner, member and guest we will continue to build momentum and recognition as a leader in vacation ownership sales, marketing and the vacation experience.”

Diamond Resorts International®, based in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest vacation ownership companies in the world with more than 110 branded and affiliated resorts in 14 countries with destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to its more than 360,000 owners and members through the branded service of more than 5,500 team members worldwide, Diamond Resorts International® is dedicated to providing its guests with effortless and relaxing vacation experiences every time, for a lifetime.

For more information, please visit DiamondResorts.com

Contact: Kimberly Perette
Tel US: (702) 261 1005
Tel International UK: +44 (0)1524 845517


Linkback - Press Release 16th May 08
]]> 5/16/2008 9:22:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4476 4476
any advice appreciated

Linkback - How do I cancel my Diamond Resorts membership
]]> 5/16/2008 8:05:47 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4475 4475 The fees for 2008 are paid and 187 points remain for this years use.
We can only sell to existing members so please feel free to make an offer.

Linkback - 2000 Points for sale
]]> 5/16/2008 6:54:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4474 4474
Linkback - CLC Alfagar Village Santa Eulalia Albufeira Por
]]> 5/16/2008 5:36:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4473 4473
A service to help track down Britons caught up in emergencies abroad is being launched by the Foreign Office.

The recent quake in China and cyclone in Burma both highlighted the problems involved in trying to get hold of people possibly caught up in crises.

Travellers can now register their details with the Locate service on the Foreign Office website.

These include details of their travel plans, as well as emergency contact information for embassies and family.

Communications difficult

The launch coincides with a Foreign Office survey of 1,204 adults which found more than half went away without giving journey details to loved ones.

It also found two out of three Britons did not know where their loved ones were travelling when they went abroad.

It's great to get off the beaten track when we're away from home but things can change very quickly in any country

As many as 20% of those questioned said they had been abroad during an incident and felt compelled to let someone at home know they were all right.

But the Foreign Office said communication could often be difficult in such situations, leaving families and friends not knowing whether or not the person was safe.

Problems finding out whether an individual was safe could also divert consular assistance away from those who really needed it, it added.

In case of an emergency, worried relatives in the UK can also register their concern about a traveller on the Locate website, enabling the Foreign Office to get in touch to reassure them more quickly once they have located the person in question.

Foreign Office minister Meg Munn said: "It's great to get off the beaten track when we're away from home but things can change very quickly in any country.

"In our survey more than nine out of 10 Britons said they would feel reassured to know that in the event of an emergency abroad, the local embassy could quickly find their location.

"Telling us where you will be, whether it's a short trip or you're travelling for a year, could help us either to get to you if you are in trouble, or know that you are safe so that we can concentrate our resources on helping those in need."

Britons made an estimated 68 million foreign trips in 2006.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/7402638.stm



Linkback - Website to trace Brits in crises
]]> 5/16/2008 7:56:58 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4472 4472
“You could do a time share, in which you usually buy by weeks and are relegated to using that week in the same place, or trading it,” said Bridget McCrea, co-author of “Second Homes for Dummies.” “A fractional is more flexible: you own shares, and you have more access and more hands-on ownership. And I’ve heard of people buying a second home with friends.”

It is clear that time shares are becoming more popular.

“It’s obviously less costly, and most people I know are not vacationing 52 weeks a year,” said Lisa Ann Schreier, director of Timeshare Insights, a consumer consulting Web site. “You buy a vacation home on the Jersey Shore, and you’re going to use it for, let’s say, four weeks a year. Then you have to find somebody to rent it, whereas with a time share you’re only buying the time you’re going to be using.”

There are tips to keep in mind, though — tips Ms. Schreier has gleaned from her own years as a time-share saleswoman and from undercover trips to time-share presentations. First, she says, consider how much you go away in a typical year; if it’s fewer than seven nights, then a time share isn’t for you. Second, if you generally spend less than $80 a night on vacation accommodations (for instance, if you like to camp out), then skip a time share.

Finally, “don’t believe the following four words: free, perfect, always and never,” Ms. Schreier said. “You’ll get yourself in trouble. When you sit through a presentation, you’ll hear that once you pay off the mortgage, your time share will be free. But you’ll be paying annual maintenance fees and real estate taxes.”

Ms. Schreier adds that it’s possible to buy time shares “secondhand” from a previous owner for, generally, thousands of dollars less than “new” ones. “But you have to be very, very careful whom you do business with,” she said. In her book “Timeshare Vacations for Dummies” she offers a list of questions.

If you want to own a piece of property (or of several properties) and not just a week of time, fractional ownership might be for you. “A fractional is any arrangement where people co-own a property and share it according to time,” said Andy Sirkin, a lawyer with Sirkin Paul Associates, which specializes in these arrangements.

“You have properties involving one house, or different properties in different places,” he said. “There’s a huge variation. What they all have in common is shared ownership and usage according to time.”

How the group is organized and how you divide up time are the two major variations. You might go in on a house with a small group of friends or family; or you could buy into a collection of properties overseen by a developer or a corporation.

Within any group, you have to determine how and when each owner will be able to use the property, and if the investment (including purchase price and annual fees) is worth it.

“The basic idea is that you’re paying for what you actually use, Mr. Sirkin said. “The reason that’s a powerful idea in the world of vacation homes is that people don’t actually use their vacation homes that much.”

And don’t think just because you go in with friends or family that it’s going to be easier. “It’s counterintuitive,” Mr. Sirkin said. “The truth is that the smaller the group, the harder it is to get along, and that family and friends don’t get along better than strangers.” The pre-emptive play is to have a good document that lays out the specifics of how the co-ownership will work.

Last but not least, always remember the basics. “Build a budget based on what you can comfortably afford each month,” Ms. McCrea said. The mortgage payment is not going to be your only responsibility: utilities, maintenance, property management, taxes and homeowner insurance are also on your plate.

“The lending situation has changed,” Ms. McCrea said, “but lenders still seem to lend more than you can afford, so you need to be realistic.”

Realistic — but not rich.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/16/greathomesanddestinations/16your.html



Linkback - Second home - various options
]]> 5/16/2008 7:53:19 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4471 4471
In an interim report the Air Accident Investigations Branch said a temperature of -76C over Russia on January 17 may have led to the thickening and reduced the fuel pressure, denying the additional engine-thrust required during landing.

The BA flight from Beijing crash-landed at Heathrow after a last-minute loss of power. It was the worst crash at the airport for 30 years, although only one of the 136 passengers and 16 crew suffered more than minor injuries.

No changes in operation for the more than 660 777s in service have been recommended and the investigation continues. No evidence of an aircraft malfunction has been found.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/05/16/27580/heathrow-crash-investigators-focus-on-fuel-system.html


Linkback - Heathrow crash investigators focus on fuel system
]]> 5/16/2008 7:48:04 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4470 4470
I've read all over the place that when trying to sell you DON'T pay anything "Up Front"

Right-the people you've put your Weeks to in order to sell, come back to you, say they have a buyer. Offer accepted. They go through all the speil that once the cash is in my account they send DHL to collect the Deeds from me. "Great" I think-that sounds ok.

However they then tell me I have to pay £999 so they can continue the sale & that I'll get the money back with the purchase price. I back off. They assure me that if there's a problem I can always claim this back from my bank under the C C Act. I ask them to justify the payment. "Because once the cash is in your bank you could always refuse to hand over the deed, move away, or emigrate so it's a safeguard." I refuse. Conversation ends.

Then I thought " He has a point really"

So- can I please ask those of you have sold Timeshare Weeks, how you do so without "Payment up Front"? It seems to me the only reliable way would be to ask purchasers or agent to come round to your house with the cash, where a simultaneous handover of deeds takes place.

Hardly practical!

How is it done please?

Linkback - If you don't pay up front.....?
]]> 5/15/2008 8:16:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4469 4469
Bearing in mind that I am invariably one of the last individuals to receive anything coming from Citrus House - normally, offers have passed their closing date before I receive details of them - I was surprised when I logged in this morning to see no mention of the Special Levy that DRI have implemented for the current year to absorb the sharp devaluation of the pound against the euro.

Unless, of course, I am the only recipient of their correspondence and therefore the only one being asked to pay a further £105 in management fees for the current year (ie 2008).

Are there any other takers?

Tony

Linkback - DRI - 2008 SPECIAL LEVY
]]> 5/15/2008 1:20:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4468 4468
Apartado Postal No. 101
Adeje 38670
Tenerife
Canary Islands
Spain
Their e mail address is worldjustices@yahoo.com

I have no intention of replying to them and have not been mis-sold anything but I know there are people out there who may think that this may solves their timeshare problems. BE WARNED!

Linkback - World Justice International S.L.U.
]]> 5/15/2008 1:06:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4467 4467
Linkback - WORLD JUSTISE INTERNATIONAL
]]> 5/14/2008 10:40:23 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4466 4466
I know a lot of people with timeshares. And I smile along while they tell me about the timeshares and the good points about them - the "vacation club" that lets you go to many different destinations instead of the traditional idea of a single-location, the... well, I can't really remember any other upsides. Maybe it's cheaper to have a timeshare than to plan your own vacation each year and pay full price? I really don't know. I've never been able to understand the upside.

These people are seemingly intelligent, so I assume they see a benefit. But I don't want to be rude, so I never delve into all my skepticisms about timeshares; otherwise it would seem that I'm implying they made a bad decision.

So I throw this question out to you. What are the upsides of a timeshare? Do you own a timeshare, or have you ever owned one? If timeshares are so great, why do they give you such a hard sell? Shouldn't the wonders of the timeshare be so obvious that you don't need to be sold so hard?

On the other side of the coin, if you have or have had a timeshare and regret it, I'd be interested to hear why. What made you think it was good to begin with, and what changed once you were actually an owner?

Full story and replies
http://www.finance-weblog.com/50226711/i_would_never_buy_a_timeshare_am_i_wrong.php

Linkback - He Would Never Buy a Timeshare. Is He Wrong?
]]> 5/14/2008 8:59:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4465 4465
The airlines had argued charging a single fare to disabled passengers and their attendents would be a financial hardship. The court rejected their appeal in a ruling handed down on May 5.

Pat Danforth, chair of council's transportation committee, says the ruling will bring air travel in line with other modes of transportation in Canada.

"It [will] allow them to travel at no cost," Danforth said. "It's the same kind of policy that is already in place with rail and interprovincial busing where if you require an attendant in order to travel, then that cost is covered. "

The airlines now have one year to comply with the ruling.

In January, the Canadian Transportation Agency ruled the airlines must offer a single fare to travellers with disabilities and attendants who travel with them.

The Council of Canadians with Disabilities in 2002 lodged a formal complaint along with two individuals, Joanne Neubauer of Victoria and Eric Norman of Gander, N.L.

Neubauer, who has rheumatoid arthritis, said she couldn't afford to travel without an attendant.

Norman, who had to travel frequently to Toronto, felt the pricing policy was unjust.

"He felt that it basically wasn't fair that he was having to pay twice to get the medical treatment he needed," Danforth said.

Norman died in 2006 of cancer.

The CTA estimated the new policy will cost Air Canada about $7 million a year and WestJet about $1.5 million a year.

http://www.cbc.ca/consumer/story/2008/05/13/travel-appeals.html


Linkback - Court of Appeal rejects airlines' challenge
]]> 5/14/2008 8:56:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4464 4464
Whether you fancy white water rafting, horse riding, mountain biking or hiking, these are just some of the adventure holidays on offer in France.

With so many different activities on offer, your holiday can range from the extreme sports to the more sedate, through to adult only adventures. Whatever you decide, this sort of holiday is never going to be boring. All the family can be involved together, which can make for a great learning experience.

Complete package holidays are a good way of getting the holiday you want without the hassle. These can be catered specifically for your needs, yet you can also choose to book specific activities for a day here and there while on your holiday.

When booking your adventure holiday, you will normally be in a reasonably small, informal group of around three to five families, or a social group of around 15 to 30, which will be headed by a trained tour leader and representative. That this can be a great way to meet other like-minded families and individuals while enjoying yourselves and, of course, testing yourselves to the limits along the way.

Some people will think of white water rafting or sky diving as extreme adventure sport, while others will think of cycling to one place, then going on horseback to another as a great adventure. The truth is, there is an adventure holiday available to suit all tastes, and some are more strenuous than others are. Please check the itinerary thoroughly and make sure it is going to be suitable for everyone.

You can also choose from activities such as canoeing and rafting in the Ardeche; canyoning, tubing, and mountaineering in the Alps; horse riding in Brittany; paragliding and climbing in the Pyrenees. Or why not go to Chamonix, which is a real mountain town, full of history and popular for skiing holidays. It also provides amazing summer mountaineering, and with the diverse terrain, it is mostly suited to the experienced for some of the world's best winter riding.

Why not visit the Gorge d'Ardeche, known as the Grand Canyon of Europe. As the river winds its way past steep canyon walls and towering cliffs, it creates the ideal location for canoeing, climbing, and walking - for both the experienced and the novice alike.

The Alps Maritime is like discovering the true France. Even though the Roya Valley is only around a one-hour drive from the Riviera, it is still very unspoiled. The valley itself is renowned for its many canyons, and with the fast flowing river and mountain scenery, this could be the perfect location for an exhilarating family adventure holiday with lots of different activities to choose from, so you could never become bored, just possibly exhausted!

France has many lakes and miles of coastal water suitable for water skiing and other water sports, although the areas in the south of France are far warmer, which gives it an added advantage.

This country has some of the finest terrain for mountain biking, which is probably why France has been able to produce some the best mountain bikers in the world. However, there are also other adventures that might take your fancy, which could include pony trekking, kayaking, scuba diving, wind surfing, hiking, rope courses, caving, abseiling, thrilling jumps into pools, quad biking and much, much more.

Just make sure that whatever type of adventure holiday you are looking for, you think of everyone in your party. Some activities are not available for children under certain ages, so you do need to consider what will be appropriate. Of you like cycling but have a heart condition, then mountain biking is not going to be beneficial

Some trips will cater to the experienced, such as rafting down rapids or ice climbing for the experienced rock climber. A novice, or for instance someone who has never been in a canoe or on a horse before, would need to look at having some tuition incorporated within their holiday before they could attempt some of the activities on offer.

Do confirm the equipment, if any, that you will need to take with you along with any specific clothing requirements, such as hiking boots or your own life jacket. We had to get a life jacket for our daughter due to her age, as there were not any available in very small sizes. The last thing you want is to get to your destination and realize you cannot participate in the activities to which you were so looking forward.

So for anyone who is interested in outdoor adventure travel, this type of holiday can show you the real France by taking you off the normal beaten track and into the heart of this remarkable country.

http://cfc.news8.net/affinity/affarticle.cfm?id=120


Linkback - Family Adventure Holidays in France
]]> 5/14/2008 8:53:55 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4463 4463
They must be having a laugh![:o)]

you can request emails any month between august 2007 and July 2008.

Perhaps thay will let me know when some accomdation is available last October as they didnt have any when I looked last year



Linkback - RCI's E-alert system
]]> 5/14/2008 12:43:49 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4462 4462 Garden Lago 19th to 26th April 2008
2 Bed Family Apartment 462
Guests 3 aged 58, 58 and 82

We have stayed at GL twice before in 2004 and 2005 and I thought it would be interesting to include in this report my thoughts on how the destination has changed now that we are DRI rather than S-unterra. The short answer no appreciable changes whatsoever. The staff were superb especially Reception who are a credit to Helen Smith the Resort Manager but the staff were great before anyway.

WE had the identical Apartment in July 2005 (I asked for 462 and we got precisely what we asked for, but this also happened under S-unterra). Changes were few and all were superficial. The fridge magnet is now DRI and one or two wall hangings (pictures) have been updated. The only appreciable change was the fitting of a Quadrant breakfast bar in the previously empty corner of the Kitchen which was crying out for such an item three years ago.

General comments, I have to give a special award to the Garden Lago April 2008 “Welcome Meeting” it was without doubt the worst we have ever attended. The contributors Scott & Jamie the “Entertainments Team” were hopeless! They are both very enthusiastic and were far better at their other duties of daily quiz compliers and comperes for the evening entertainments. Their welcome meeting was embarrassing with minimal information, thankfully only a passing mention of the Reps (who were lurking nearby) but did not even attempt to speak to the assembled throng. Almost nothing about the area, possible excursions etc etc just numerous references to the fact that the weather would improve (they got that bit right because it did indeed improve).

The best bit of the Welcome Meeting was the complimentary glass of sangria which appreciably less watered down than some freebie drinks tasters I have enjoyed (endured) in the past. Drinks courtesy of the Bar & Restaurant franchisee a very pleasant Argentinian gent called Eduardo. When were previously at GL it was “between restaurant franchisees” so no on site bar even. Eduardo’s bar and restaurant was very well ran and we ate there on Thursday night, we each had something different and empty plates (after we had finished) were an indication of how good the food was. Not really more expensive than decent eateries in the vicinity of GL and appreciably cheaper than some up market venues in the Old Town. Well done Eduardo!

Weather during our week improved with each day that passed, by Monday the occasional showers had disappeared and by Tuesday the strong breeze had died away and temperatures in the 20s had become the norm very pleasant indeed.

Our hire car was ordered thro Carjet and you do not know which firm is being used until the end of the booking. We ordered a 4 door Clio with A/C and were upgraded free to a Peugeot 307 A/C, even though there were only three of us the bit of extra legroom was much appreciated. The downside Sol-Mar the Hire firm are not based at the Airport so there was a time-consuming wait whilst the mini-bus arrived to take us to Sol-Mars compound five minutes away (the flight was a fairly late evening arrival).

WE used the car to good effect and travelled over 750 kms during the week and saw every corner of Majorca except the South West. Highlights were the train (caught at Bunyola) ride to Soller and the Tram to Puerto Soller. A visit to La Granja the Majorcan equivalent of a National Trust property, very interesting and the views from the Santuari de Sant Salvador which now has a modern café and hotel rooms, right next to the Monastery.

The ambiance of the Resort was spoilt a little by under occupation and Scott (see above) suggested the resort was only 70-80% full. I queried why more weeks did not appear on the 59 day pages in my end of week comment sheet and Helen Smith e-mailed me back in the UK a few days after were arrived back home to advise the empty apartments were “No Show” fixed week owners.

We would not hesitate to return to Madjorca in April in the future. This brings me to a strange thing which happens in Majorca in April. I have never seen so many cyclists, the roads were awash with them and they seem to travel to different points on the island to “enjoy” the different climbs up to the high points (including the Santuari mentioned above which is some climb in a car). Some of the cyclists were actually staying at Garden Lago, travelling down in the lift with a fifty something bloke in pale blue lycra complete with his racing bike is certainly a first for me!

So there you have Majorca in April, more lycra than in 10 Ann Summers shops, pleasant weather, but as of yet no major changes around the resort. I do not say the last bit critically, our previous visits to GL were both great so perhaps it’s hard to improve on something which is already brilliant.

Cheers

Dave King


Linkback - Garden Lago DRI Majorca
]]> 5/13/2008 8:46:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4461 4461
The 19 missing people were part of a group travelling with the niche Travel Collection brand and were last known to be travelling by coach from Chengdu to Wolong in the Sichuan province on Monday when the quake struck.

The operator has been unable to contact the party as communications have gone down following the incident although it is now working closely with the British consulate to find the missing party.

Meanwhile the Foreign and Commonwealth Office is advising against all but essential travel to Sichuan while the operator is re-routing any tours from the stricken area.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/05/13/27582/kuoni-searches-for-missing-tour-party-after-china-earthquake.html


Linkback - Kuoni searches for tour party after earthquake
]]> 5/13/2008 8:21:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4460 4460
The German Prosecutor is investigating a timeshare fraud carried out on the Canaries. The Stuttgart prosecutor thinks that at least 40 Germans have been affected in the fraud, with the accused in the case, 37 year old Ivan Boris from Croatia, adopting as many as 15 different identities to trick his victims.

Between them they sent as much as 700,000 € for timeshare rights in the Club Monte Anfi in the Canaries in a fraud which started in October 2006. He promised the victims a higher income than normal, and backed up his claims with false notary papers.

The whereabouts of the accused are currently unknown, and several of his bank accounts have now been frozen. It’s thought likely that he has carried out similar frauds elsewhere in the country.

http://www.typicallyspanish.com/news/publish/article_16456.shtml



Linkback - German victim of timeshare fraud on the Canaries
]]> 5/13/2008 8:17:50 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4459 4459
In an application to the International Air Services Commission (IASC), seeking a two-year extension of its current code share agreement with Japan Airlines, Qantas said it was "almost certain" that it would cut services to Japan if the deal was not renewed.

However, even if the agreement was approved, Qantas failed to give any assurances that it would maintain it current level of flights into Australia's third biggest market for inbound tourists.

In its application to the IASC, Qantas warned the emergence of low-cost airlines such as AirAsia, Tiger and Japan's Skymark was "likely to increase pressure on Australia's market share of Japanese tourists".

Qantas also failed to rule out switching flights to Tokyo with its low-cost Jetstar.

Despite the code-share allowing it effectively to share capacity with its only direct competitor on the route, Qantas said it was "sustaining siginificant losses", highlighting the impact of high fuel prices and the strong dollar on Japanese demand.

According to tourism industry lobby group TTF Australia, arrivals from Japan fell 17.6 per cent in the year to March.

The current deal was expanded in 2006, when Japan Airlines stopped its flights into Melbourne from Tokyo and decided to code-share with Qantas on the route. Since then, Qantas has replaced its services to Osaka and Nagoya with Jetstar, which forged a code-share with JAL last year.

Jetstar declined to reject speculation it could eventually fly to Japan via its new Darwin hub with narrow-body jets.

"The range of the A320 or the A321, without payload restrictions, you're looking at five to six hours," said Jetstar spokesman Simon Westaway. "That arc does cover a lot of exciting … markets that we could serve in the future," he said. Jetstar already flies to Singapore from Darwin twice daily.

The longer-range A321 could easily reach most Japanese cities from Darwin.

There is even talk Qantas could use its part-owned Vietnamese budget subsidiary, Pacific Airlines, to carry tourists between Australia, Japan and other major Asian tourism markets via its Ho Chi Minh hub.

http://business.smh.com.au/lowcost-airlines-hit-qantas/20080512-2deh.html


Linkback - Low-cost airlines hit Qantas
]]> 5/13/2008 8:16:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4458 4458 After years of dissatifaction at RPA we made the jump and will be happy to talk to others who see little value in being stuck with RPA weeks.

Linkback - Royal Park Albatros weeks
]]> 5/13/2008 7:49:27 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4457 4457
Linkback - Chayofa Country Club
]]> 5/13/2008 11:18:22 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4456 4456
I took over ownership of a week of timeshare at a Club La Costa resort in Tenerife last year. Since becoming an owner I have received no information from the resort management AT ALL until I received a letter in February 2008 stating that my management fees were late, a 'late payment fee' had been added and they now wanted £595. I don't mind paying my management fees, but to add penalty charges onto an account that I have not been asked to pay seems a bit excessive. Despite 3 letters to Club La Costa asking for an explaination and details of the amount of the management fees, the only response I have received is a letter yesterday saying that unless the full amount is paid within 28 days, I will forefit my ownership.

Has anyone else had this problem with Club La Costa? Can they enforce a late payment charge for something I was not asked to pay in the first place? Is there a regulatory body I can contact about this matter? Does anyone want to buy a timeshare? [;)]

Any help will be gratefully received

Linkback - Club La Costa -late fees
]]> 5/13/2008 9:44:38 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4455 4455


5 points for a correct answer.

Answer to be revealed Sunday 18th May unless guessed correctly beforehand.




Linkback - Guess where it is - 12th May
]]> 5/12/2008 10:45:36 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4454 4454
The warning came as new figures showed that more than 1,500 UK travellers returned with malaria last year, with nearly 75% of cases involving the most dangerous strain of the disease.

Abta said trips to such popular countries as France and Spain could be replaced by visits to malaria-prone destinations such as Goa in India, south east Asia and Africa.

Abta spokeswoman Frances Tuke said: "As money-monitoring remains a top priority, we expect travellers to take advantage of last-minute deals to destinations where they'll get the best value for money, rather than skipping this year's summer holiday altogether."

Abta added that while this projection was good news for the tourism industry, it could be bad news for travellers' health.

UK Malaria Guidelines Committee member Dr George Kassianos said: "We know from studies that people who book their trips at the last minute are much less likely to seek travel health advice before they go.

"Deaths can occur within 24 hours of the first symptoms of the most dangerous strain of malaria, so all travellers need to recognise the importance of speaking to their GP, practice nurse or travel clinic before going abroad."

He went on: "With people visiting more exotic destinations and malaria hotspots changing over time, up-to-date health advice should be considered just as essential as renewing your passport."

http://ukpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5jWfOVsWUShwz30-L32LDjnqjtSmA


Linkback - Malaria alert over exotic holidays
]]> 5/12/2008 6:20:36 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4453 4453
The target market is the same people who were attracted to timeshare in the first place, those who want a second home but do not want to pay the full price for what could be an extravagance. Even so, fractional ownership is a big improvement on timeshare because buyers actually own part of a property.

Thailand with its booming tourist industry is seen as a high-potential location for fractional ownership. Among the contenders is Absolute Group, which is marketing Absolute David Lloyd Beach, a boutique condominium in Nakalay, Phuket; a luxury apartment in Soi Bangla in Phuket; and a luxury hotel with 17 exclusive units at Thong Krut on Koh Samui.

Another company, Leisure Solutions Company, is also working on two projects in Phuket and one in Samui but cannot reveal the names as yet. It is offering larger units, primarily three bedrooms.

Darron Guy, a co-founder of Leisure Solutions, said that for 2.85 million baht a buyer would get 1/12th ownership of a 156-square-metre three-bedroom apartment in the Laguna area of Phuket with leasehold title for 30 years plus options for two 30-year extensions, a structure common in Thai holiday spots.

Mr Guy said that although fractional ownership was new to Thailand, it was a fairly mature market in North America, South Africa and Europe. ''The roots do come from timeshare and what [operators] have found is that these opportunities for fractional far outweigh the benefits of timeshare.''

The fractional business began with partial ownership of assets such as boats and planes. These days one can even own a piece of a high-end handbag, according to the UK-based website www.fractionallife.com.

Research by Leisure Solutions shows that a number of companies have indicated fractional ownership is available in this region but the company says not all fit the true fractional model.

''Fractional is often confused with timeshare,'' says Mr Guy.

The high-end fractional market in North America is estimated to be worth US$3 billion a year covering total fractionals including a concept called a private residence club.

''A private residence club is a fractional by another name except that it's exceptional quality _ so the type of properties you are familiar with are Sukhothai Residences, The River by Raimon Land, those type of properties.''

While the sub-prime crisis has dented investor confidence worldwide, fractional operators believe it is too early to tell whether the partial ownership business has been affected. Indications are that the usual consumers of this type of product, high-net-worth individuals, are fairly resilient. They actually see this as an opportunity because people who were thinking of buying their own vacation home might now be drawn to owning just a fraction.

Mr Guy explained that usually the maximum fractional ownership is one quarter and the minimum 1/12th because anything less would make the structure look more like timeshare. The most popular proportions are one-sixth or one-eighth.

Leisure Solutions has noted that prior to the Condominium Act, Thailand had legislation governing co-operative ownership. It is discussing with its legal counsel how fractional relates to the latter law. ''It's our understanding that the co-operative structure will actually support fractional ownership.''

The company also offers options for ownership including setting up an offshore company in a jurisdiction that has dual taxation agreement with Thailand, such as Hong Kong, Singapore and Mauritius. ''We are also seeing this as an opportunity for developers with their 49-51% quota (on foreign ownership of a condominium) to perhaps identify another opportunity to sell the 51%,'' says Mr Guy.

Leisure Solutions believes there is a market for corporate fractional ownership in big cities, as it has been successful in London. Mr Guy also believes that there is a strong market for Thais, especially in locations such as Hua Hin.

''We believe that by lowering the price point it also attracts the demographic of middle- to high-income Thais, and if the yield through management and rental is wrapped around that, then we also believe that is an attractive model.''

http://www.bangkokpost.com/Business/12May2008_biz50.php


Linkback - Fractional concept - Thailand
]]> 5/12/2008 6:18:50 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4452 4452
Linkback - Gas Boilers
]]> 5/12/2008 6:04:50 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4451 4451 By this time you are probably wondering what I am talking about, although I could tell you, I would rather you told me, and yes, I expect to get marked criticsm from those with a canine bent!!

Linkback - The time has come!
]]> 5/12/2008 5:46:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4449 4449
Linkback - Timeshare Hypermarket
]]> 5/12/2008 1:58:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4450 4450 8000 points for sale fees paid for 2008
£900 ono

Linkback - 8000 points for sale
]]> 5/12/2008 9:54:47 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4448 4448 The main target areas appear to be the Canaries, Costa del Sol and Majorca. If your stopped by these creeps (some well put on and well spoken)just say "your unemployed,or don't believe in plastic,or not married" Or simply say a firm NO THANKS.
In the event you are scammed, NEVER pay by DEBIT card or CASH. A credit card will offer you some protection. Everyone reading this--please tell your friends and family and those colleagues at work.
This way you are all likely to enjoy your holiday.

Linkback - DON'T FORGET--Holiday scams
]]> 5/12/2008 12:33:02 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4447 4447
Donald Trump will claim his £1bn golf resort in Aberdeenshire is of “national importance” and more important than any adverse environmental effects.

A statement of case, lodged by the Trump organisation in preparation for next month’s public inquiry, shows the mogul has no intention scaling back the controversial development.

But it suggests the group could enter into an agreement to cover a contribution to affordable housing, education facilities and road improvements if the resort gets the go-ahead, reported the Scotsman.

The statement says the group believes the social and economic impacts of the proposed resort outweigh negative environmental impacts.

The development proposes to build a golf course, 450-room five-star hotel, 500 residential homes and almost 1,000 timeshare apartments partially on Foveran Links, a protected national heritage site.

Mr Trump has revealed he will be the group’s key witness at the inquiry.

http://www.contractjournal.com/Articles/2008/05/09/59072/trump-resorts-economic-impact-more-important-than-environment.html



Linkback - Trump resort's more important than environment
]]> 5/11/2008 8:02:07 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4446 4446
The current hot spell has been caused by warm winds from the south east off the continent

The warning came as forecasters predicted that parts of Britain will bask in temperatures the same as the Bahamas this weekend with a mini heatwave showing little sign of abating.

Just six weeks ago the country was shivering under a blanket of snow during a white Easter but today is expected to be the hottest day of the year so far with temperatures in some inland areas touching 28C (82F) - more than 10C higher than average for the time of year.

That will make parts of England hotter than Rome, Istanbul, Casablanca, Crete and Malaga.

The majority of Britain is expected to see temperatures in the low 20s until Wednesday although there will be rain outside London and the South East.

A Met Office spokesman said: “We had snow only four weeks ago but now it’s wall to wall sunshine.”

Ladbrokes cut the price of the all time record temperature of 38.5C (101.3F) being topped this summer to 4/1.

A survey by price comparison website Savebuckets.com found one in five had cancelled their holiday plans, with the economic downturn and high food and utility costs contributing to the decisions of many.

Following the collapse of two travel firms last week some experts warned that the industry could face a crash as people stay home.

Chris Photi, of accountancy firm White Hart Associates, said: “This is the perfect storm. The travel industry is immensely resilient, but is it this resilient? All we need now is for the sunshine to continue for another three months and it gets worse.”

Beaches across Britain will be packed today and police issued a warning about the perils of “tombstoning” after hundreds of thrill seekers leaped into the sea from cliffs and harbour walls.

Officers said young people are risking their lives by hurling themselves into shallow sea waters from piers, rocks and cliffs and the craze has already led to several fatalities.

The current hot spell has been caused by warm winds from the south east off the continent.

However, the same air currents will carry pollen from Europe which may trigger the early onset of hayfever for many sufferers.

In its long term forecast the Met Office has predicted a likely return this year to the more traditional British summer pattern of three fine days and a thunderstorm.

It said this summer is likely to be hotter than the average for recent decades but there will also be more rain and unsettled spells.

Fashion chain Next said warmer weather had already boosted trading as people stocked up on summer wardrobes.

The weather has also affected wildlife with great tits having adapted their breeding patterns to fit warmer spring temperatures, a study showed.

Research published in the journal Science showed that, over almost 50 years, a population of birds breeding at Wytham, near Oxford, were laying their eggs almost 14 days earlier on average.

During this week’s mini-heatwave a man died after diving into the Thames in Reading, Berks to retrieve a football, police said.

A 12-year-old boy drowned in a pond after playing with his friends on sheets of polystyrene in S****horpe.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/1941649/Mini-heatwave-makes-Britons-cancel-holidays.html


Linkback - Mini-heatwave makes Britons cancel holidays
]]> 5/11/2008 8:00:16 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4445 4445
"The world has changed dramatically for the airline industry," said Scott Dickson, senior vice president and chief marketing officer at Oak Creek, Wis.-based Midwest Air Group Inc. (NYSE: MEH), which operates Midwest Airlines.

"This is probably a bigger shock to the airlines' systems than what happened after 9/11. This is going to bring some very fundamental change in the industry in terms of its size, its shape and its character, especially if these phenomenally high fuel prices continue for any length of time."

Fuel prices for airlines have risen 200 percent since 2000 and more than 60 percent over the last year, said Dickson, who spoke Thursday at the Public Policy Forum's Viewpoint luncheon at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center.

Meanwhile, air fares have remained virtually flat over the past eight years, creating difficulties for airlines as they try to balance revenue with the cost of doing business. Fuel now constitutes about 40 percent of the annual budget for most airlines, according to Dickson.

"That's double what it was a few years ago. It's shocking," he said.

Although the long-term effect of rising fuel prices is uncertain, Dickson said, over the short term high fuel costs will lead to a "dramatically altered" industry. He said the airline industry could shrink by 10 percent by this fall in terms of airline capacity as a result.

Eight airlines recently have gone out of business, in large part because of fuel costs, according to Dickson.

"There are carriers that have had aggressive growth plans that are now announcing zero or negative growth plans," he said. "I don't think any carrier in the industry has a growth plan for the next 18 months."

In addition, aircraft are being parked and industry consolidation is likely to continue.

Advanced schedules show that the 11 airlines that serve Mitchell will collectively have a "big downturn" in service by this fall, he said.

Dickson said the impact on airlines' long-term plans will depend on whether fuel costs are viewed as a "statistical anomaly and the belief that the price of fuel will correct itself to something more favorably or whether this is the way of the future."

http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/stories/2008/05/05/daily55.html


Linkback - Cost of fuel has impact on airlines
]]> 5/11/2008 7:55:31 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4444 4444 Calahonda
Costa del Sol
Spain

Exchanged through Dial an Exchange

2 adults 1 child aged 2/3 (she had her 3rd birthday in Spain)

From 26th April 2008 – 3rd May 2008

Pictures available in the gallery link under Keever pics

Our flight arrived in Malaga at around 1pm and after a very quick hire car pick up we headed down the coast to Calahonda.

Check in at Dona Lola is 5 pm but we arrived shortly after 2pm and the apartment was ready for us, check in was swift and took no longer than 5 mins with the usual forms requiring to be filled in.We had been allocated Diana 202 which is beachfront 1 bed 1 bathroom apartment and was directly adjacent to the steps that led to the beach.

I had read various other resort reviews that steps were a problem in the resort but I personally didn’t think it was any different from any other resort that we have stayed in along the coast (I certainly found this resort easier with a childs buggy than say Marriott Marbella). Maybe we were fortunate that from the car park located above the fountains we were able just to walk down the slope slightly and we were then on the lowest part of the resort.

The apartment itself was well appointed with everything you would find at home, the kitchen was fitted with dishwasher, microwave, oven, grill, fridge freezer, every utensil you could possibly need to cook and plenty crockery. It was very clean an tidy and the appliances were in very good condition.

The bedroom was well appointed with plenty of drawer space and plenty of hangers available in the wardrobes. (A hair dryer was supplied which my partner was delighted with as she had forgotten hers) extra pillows and bedding were provided and stored in one of the cupboards if required.

The bathroom consisted of the usual suspects ( bath also had a shower overhead) and soap, shampoo etc were provided by the resort in the minature bottles. Again, very clean and fit for purpose.

The lounge was large and bright with two leather sofas, and large table, which doubled as a games table with chess, backgammon and playing cards stored under the lid. A large wall unit housed the television with a (free) good channel selection available including the Disney channel which was quite nice to settle the little one at nights. The resort has recently installed a new system which provides internet, e mail and pay per view movies which are accessed through a remote control. I never used this facility so can’t report on how good it is.

A large dining table was also provided with 4 comfortable chairs and all the placemats and napkins provided for setting. Crystal glasses of various sizes and an ice bucket were also provided.

The balcony was a good size and a table and chairs along with 2 sun loungers were provided, this was accessed from the lounge through a set of sliding doors and gave unspoiled views of the beach and sea as far as the eye could see.

The resort itself was well staffed on our visit and maintenance staff seemed to be going about their business. Security staff were very much present and I witnessed them several times stopping people and asking to see some form of proof that they belonged to the resort. They also came round the pool area twice with a clipboard and asked which apartment you were staying in which was reassuring.

As we had our little one with us we spent much of our time around the childrens pool, the pool itself was great and sloped from the entry area very gently to a maximum of 1 metre. Our daughter was more than happy to spend the whole afternoon in there without any problems and as parents we were able to relax without worrying about her. To me, this was one of the best bits about the resort.

The poolside maintenance staff were friendly and helpful and when we asked if the kiddies pool could be cleaned (after a windy night had blown some leaves and debris in) a member of staff arrived and had it all cleaned again within 10 minutes.

The resort also has an indoor pool with Jacuzzi, sauna, and a very impressive gym with the very latest equipment. A snooker room is also present and looked very nice when I popped my head in.

I spent around an hour talking to one of the timeshare representatives ( don’t worry, I approached him) and found him to be very helpful with anything I asked and he answered all my questions regarding refurbishments and future plans for the resort as well as how re-sales were doing.


We ate on a couple of occasions in Vista Mar which is the restaurant by the pool and had no complaints on the quality or the service. A similar situation was found at Barbrass by the main reception when we ventured up that way.

There are plenty eating establishments directly outside the resort and we found good quality and value at The Look Inn, which served a wonderful meal, Da Vincis Italian and the Buffet restaurant (the name escapes me but it was something like Mellot or maybe I had too much wine). The food in the Buffet was outstanding and I would recommend it to anyone visiting the resort or the area, There was around 70 different dishes/items available and everything from carvery roasts to Spanish,Italian and German cuisine and anything in between available. . I was slightly apprehensive when we looked at it as you are never quite sure how long food has been sitting in the buffet situation but we had heard it was good so took the plunge. During our time sitting there the chef was constantly coming out the kitchen and checking the temperature and quality of the dishes, he took several away (even though they were still full) and replaced it with fresh. All in all great value and highly recommended.

As this is getting a bit long now I’ll start to sum up a little.

The resort and accommodation were superb, all staff were friendly and helpful and I cannot find fault with anything during our weeks stay there. My daughter had a wonderful time and as parents we got to relax beyond our wildest dreams due to the kiddies pool. So mission well and truly accomplished.

All in all I would say this resort is both suitable for families and non families as the childrens pool does not in any way interfere with sunbathers by the large pool. Nothing worse than hoards of children running around you when your trying to relax, but the layout of the pools ensures that there is little chance of that.

I have some photos listed in the gallery section but if anyone would like to see more ( I have hundreds) or ask any questions about the resort then message me and I’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.

Regards
Scott


Linkback - MacDonalds Dona Lola Calahonda
]]> 5/11/2008 1:46:46 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4443 4443 Date: 19 – 26th April 2008
Cottage No. B2 (Bowness 2) – 2 bed/1 bath (actually had 1 double and 2 very small single rooms)
Ages of Guests: 60 & 61

This is a timeshare resort and our exchange was via Interval International. Our first impressions of the resort were very favourable; however the cottages were in need of refurbishment and were what could be described as quaint! Check in went smoothly and the staff were very professional and friendly. An information pack is given to each party and you are required to leave a credit card deposit, which is fully refundable on departure. We had the keys to our cottage 30 mins before the official check in of 16.00.

COTTAGE: On the ground floor there is a small fitted kitchen, separate dining area with both front and back door and bathroom. Stairs up to the 3 bedrooms, small landing and lounge area.

KITCHEN/DINING AREA: Well equipped with utensils, cutlery, glasses & crockery for 6 people. Dishwasher, oven, microwave, small fridge (needs replacing), oven with 4 electric rings. Tea, coffee, sugar, washing up liquid, dishwasher tablets, tea cloth and wash cloth provided. There was no washing machine – launderette on site. The dining area was adequate and outside the back door there was a patio area with a green plastic patio set (4 people only). This area was shared with the next door cottage. The dining area was stone flagged in keeping with the old farmhouse décor of the cottage and the kitchen had a sisal carpet. Stairs off the dining room that lead to the upstairs landing. Plenty of room for muddy boots and rucksacks by the front door.

LOUNGE: First floor and very narrow. This looked as if some of the furniture had been replaced, but can’t be sure. There were two modern leather settees & a chair, nest of coffee tables, TV (with freeview channels – no SKY), music centre, DVD, plenty of table lamps and wall lighting.

BATHROOM: Needs a complete refurbish – the bath did not match the toilet or washbasin in colour. Shower over bath, toilet and wash basin with heated towel rail (not of the modern variety). Not much in the way of shelf space, vanity light over mirror. The bathroom smelt of stale water and it could have done with a good clean down with bleach, although it may have been the shower curtain that was making the smell. Plenty of towels as this cottage slept 6 people and there were only 2 of us staying. Otherwise you get one bath and one hand towel per person for the entire week. There were also two small tablets of toilet soap provided, but no shower gel, shampoo or facial tissues.

BEDROOMS: 1 Double bed against the wall, 1 dressing table and wardrobe. The two single rooms had single beds, a bedside cabinet and wardrobes. The bedrooms were very sparsely furnished in oak and could do with a makeover. There was a hair dryer provided in one of the rooms. However it was impossible to use in two of the bedrooms as the plug sockets were not easily located for the plug, so one bedroom was used as my dressing room (sounds grand), but it wasn’t. Windows were of the Velux type with a pull down blind. Beams and plasterwork in keeping with the décor associated with a converted farm building.

GROUNDS: There is extensive building work being done at present, and when it is finished I am sure it will be lovely. The cottage we had was part of the original development of converted farm buildings that are housed in cobbled flagged courtyards and faced the old clock tower with the back door and patio overlooking the duck pond and village green area. The original areas were well kept with lots of flowers planted in garden beds and pots throughout the various authentic stone walkways.

There is no car parking outside the cottages and you have to park in the large car park and walk through. You can, however drive down to unload your cases. If you are disabled you can park outside with a special permit available from reception.

RECPTION AREA/RESTAURANT/BAR/ENTERTAINMENT AREA: The reception area is in the same building as the leisure centre and is very modern and swish. It hasn’t been opened long and so the furnishings are all in excellent condition. You go upstairs to the on-site restaurant and bar area. We only eat on-site one night as we tended to go out to eat or stop off on the way home from walking the hills. The food was good and plentiful and not overpriced. There is a separate bar and entertainment section adjacent to the restaurant, where varied weekly entertainment is held (list available from reception). Although this area is new it is nothing out of the ordinary and is brightly lit with a small dance floor. There is a large outside patio area that looks out over the countryside that would make a nice spot to enjoy a glass of wine or beer on a warm sunny evening.

LEISURE CENTRE: Brand new and housing a swimming pool and separate children’s pool, Jacuzzi. There is also a sauna and sunbed available. The gym looked well equipped. You are required to sign a disclaimer prior to using the leisure centre.

No daily maid service or midweek clean. A mid week linen change can be provided for a charge of £9.50 for 2, £11.00 for 4, £13.00/6 and £15.00 for 8. You are strongly advised to fill in the inventory check list on arrival and take it back to reception within 24 hours. This will be checked on departure and any breakages or damage will be charged for against your credit card deposit.

Utility charge: We were advised on check-in that there is a standard charge of £26.00 for electric but on checkout we were advised that there was no charge. Whether they had made a mistake we don’t know or that they had decided to waive this as there was no electric to the entire village for one day from 8.30am – 4.30pm.

Seasons sales force on site and we were given an invitation by one of the reps to attend a morning meeting, which we declined. They seemed to be very busy the times we walked by their offices. There was also an invitation to join a welcome meeting that we also declined.

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS/INNS TO TRY: Sportsman Inn, just down the road towards the A66. Good pub grub and large portions. Lovely ice cream.

TROUTBECK INN: Approx 2 miles towards Keswick on the left hand side. Recommend booking as was fully booked twice and is popular.

TRAVELLER’S REST INN: Near Grasmere – good food and ambience in a 16th century inn. If good weather you can sit outside and enjoy the extensive views.

GIANNI’S – Penrith. Good Italian food in the centre of Penrith – in a courtyard next to the Edinburgh Woollen Shop.

The resort is situated in a quiet area with no shops close by – nearest is approx 6 miles away. We were advised that an on-site shop would be forthcoming soon. The area itself is just outside of the Lake District National Park and is halfway between Keswick & Penrith off the A55 and makes a good base to explore the area, therefore a car is essential to get the best out of your stay. At the time of our visit there was extensive construction work being carried out building new lodges that are larger and more up to date than the original cottages. We were advised that all exchanges are put into the older cottages and the newer cottages were used by Seasons members and potential new members on promotional visits who were required to attend a sales presentation. There are numerous inns and restaurant in and around the area and Penrith and Keswick are in close proximity to the resort. For younger children there is a playground area and crazy golf as well as large draughts/chess board. We were advised that as soon as the new development and landscaping were finalised, that the older and original timeshare cottages would be refurbished. All guests are invited to a sales meeting, but we declined, so we did not glean any further information on plans for the future.

I would not recommend the older cottages for anyone disabled or who has difficulty in climbing stairs and would strongly recommend that you advise reception or booking agent prior to arrival, to ascertain the suitability of the accommodation.

As we are only interested in walking the fells and climbing the hills when we visit The Lakes, the accommodation was not as important as at other times and was preferable to being in a hotel room. It must also be noted that there was only two of us in a cottage that slept 6 people, so I don’t know what a 1 bedded cottage would have been like for space. Our thoughts were that we would not refuse to stay at this resort again, but it would not be at the top of our list, unless refurbished. All in all we had a good week in a spectacular part of the country and enjoyed our stay in the Lake District


Linkback - Whitbarrow Village, Cumbria
]]> 5/10/2008 2:53:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4442 4442 Location: Spain
Exchange Company: Interval International
Contact Information: http://www.marriott.co.uk/Channels/hotels-uk/hotels/travel/agpmb-marriotts-marbella-beach-resort/
Date of Visit: 04/05/08
Ages of party: 43 and 44

Just come back from an exchange there used as a honeymoon. Whole place was full of honeymooners and Marriott owners from across the breadth of the U.S.A and made for a great group of holidaymakers. Very impressed with the apartment build quality, fixtures, fittings and soft furnishings. A well oiled slick operation with a lot of in your face advertising for entertainment and holiday ownership.

We sat through the sales pitch mainly because a £60 dinner voucher was on offer for your hour and a half, but it took two and a half- easy to say no as the price was ridiculous and the resort seriously didn't compete with the service or the style we are used to at our home resort... Waiter service around the beach/pool/bathing areas is not available and ordering takeaway involves having to collect it anyway so it misses my basic expectation on food and water there.

Sales did come back with an Aruba offer which was less than half the price at £8400+ for one week which was a bit more interesting except uk flight prices being a deterrent in this case. On site the cost of an american style burger and chips was about £11. The chips were frozen and cooked till all the small ones were burnt to a cinder, the burger was quite an ordinary one obviously frozen findus. Looking at prices and the food I saw others eat, I would have to say don't eat on site even once. Within a walk from site Los Tonys, Cristinas and the beach house restaurants were very nice indeed.

Le Papillon beach restaurant served me a clam starter mmmm lovely, a monkfish dinner in a mixed seafood sauce and at age 43 I was physically shaking at the taste of my meal. It was the taste of heaven and seriously brought me near to tears that a meal could have such an emotional effect. I have never had such a feeling from dining out before and as I say 43 years experience of eating and I cried inwardly with joy for my taste buds. 90euros for two, 3 courses with drinks and water choosing the dearest offerings from the menu.

Puerto Banus marina was an easy drive (tomtom really works too but all the towns names come up as beaches rather than city) not as expensive as I was expecting, still about 5euro a pint so I wasn't hurt by what essentially is millionaires row. Yachts fantastic and the best burger was in antonio banderras square at the irish tavern(at the end of avenida de julio eglasias!!!)- San Pedro by night was predominantly closed and a bit rough looking run down town so we left as our restaurant exprience we went for the birdcage drag show and four course dinner looked like it was closed and forgotten which was a shame as reports were it was a fun night with excellent food.

Maybe I'm used to better beaches too as Puerto Banus beach was good but up by Marriott(the best beach on the Costa del sol) was just depressing, it had no feel to it and disappeared entirely at high tide.

I would not go back to this resort. But would go to a Marriot on the understanding that I would enjoy the resort and apartments, the infrastructure being worth it. The clientele they get in people is also a good reason to go, the discerning holiday maker.

All in all it was a good week but our home resort was missed by us. To be fair we have never stayed anywhere that suits us better than our home resort. Marriott however does provide an excellent set up that suits us on site quite well.





Linkback - Marriott Marbella Beach Club, Spain
]]> 5/10/2008 8:05:33 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4441 4441
Linkback - Compensation Scam?
]]> 5/9/2008 2:04:04 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4440 4440
To enjoy the benefits of vacation ownership, or timesharing, consumers make a one-time purchase of a share of furnished resort accommodations, choosing from a wide range of products designed to suit any lifestyle. Vacation owners enjoy spacious accommodations, a variety of on-site amenities and services, and flexibility in their travel options through vacation exchange. By trading some or all of the time they own, consumers can take advantage of different.

All shared ownership resort interests come in two basic forms: a deeded interest in real estate and a right-to-use, or non-deeded, interest. These two basic forms are called by many names -- some required under state law and others adopted for marketing purposes. However, the majority of shared ownership resorts today convey a use right backed by a deeded interest in real property -- by whatever name it may be called. Deeded real estate interests are usually called "timeshare estates" under state law, and non-deeded interests are "timeshare uses" or "timeshare licenses" officially, but may also be called "memberships."

An exchange company allows existing timeshare owners to trade their timeshare interests for comparable accommodations and travel-related services. Most resorts are affiliated with an exchange company, and many resort companies also offer an internal exchange mechanism that allows owners to exchange to resorts within their resort group. If an internal resort exchange is mandatory or long-term, it is usually considered to be a vacation club. Fractional and private residence club resorts may offer exchange opportunities for their owners as well. Some exchange companies have a special program for these kinds of resorts.

Timeshares.

Traditional timeshares regardless of whether they are backed by a deed or not, allow buyers to purchase an increment of time, typically one week, in a condominium or apartment type of furnished accommodation. Timeshare owners receive either a fixed week or a floating time reservation arrangement that may vary by unit type and season. More than two-thirds of timeshare interests today are deeded.

Fractional/private residence club.

These owners typically purchase accommodations with related use rights in increments of more than two weeks and sometimes as long as three months (a quarter share). This type of ownership is almost always deeded and is a more affordable alternative to a second home. Owners benefit by avoiding the ongoing maintenance responsibilities of an entire second home, and usually enjoy a high level of service as part of the product. This product segment is considered the luxury tier of shared ownership.

Vacation club.

This name generally describes a company or related group of resorts that offers consumers vacation accommodations in more than one location. When a consumer purchases an interest in a "vacation club," it is either deeded or non-deeded like any other vacation ownership interest. If the vacation club interest is deeded, the consumer is usually said to own at a "home" resort at which he or she has a priority right of use. Even if the vacation club interest is not deeded, the consumer could still have a home resort or could have a "membership" in the club that entitles him or her to use any of the club's component resorts. Vacation clubs offer highly flexible use of multiple resorts, subject to certain advance reservation priorities and rules. Some well-known timeshare companies market their properties as a vacation club that provides their consumers with both a deeded interest in real property and multi-site flexibility.

Points.

Points are another aspect of vacation ownership that allows consumers to use their vacation product in a highly flexible fashion. Points are simply a numeric representation of the relative use management value of the timeshare or fractional interest purchased--which again can be either a deeded or non-deeded interest. There are a few companies that offer "pure points" without the sale of an underlying specific timeshare interest. By purchasing points in any of their formats, the consumer can use their points to reserve different combinations of accommodation sizes, locations and seasons, and may also be able to acquire a variety of travel services depending on the rules of the timeshare company. Think of points like tickets--symbolic of the product or service being used or reserved.

Vacation ownership is highly regulated. The various products described above must comply with strict standards set forth in state timeshare laws as well as several federal laws before being offered to consumers. For nearly 40 years, ARDA members have worked with federal and state governments to support consumer protection legislation. As a result, purchasers have a five- to seven-day rescission period in most states that allows them time to cancel a purchase contract for any reason and get their money back. Further, most state timeshare laws require truth in advertising, protect purchasers' timeshares from the developer's debt, and assure that purchasers receive detailed information about the timeshare plan they are buying, including the type of timeshare interest, how to use the product, management and budget information and much more. State timeshare laws usually apply whether the vacation product is called a timeshare, fractional, private residence club, vacation club or points product.

Know what you are buying. ARDA and its member companies urge consumers to know what vacation product they are purchasing by reading the contract carefully and asking questions about their vacation purchase. For more information and consumer tips, please visit ARDA at www.arda.org.

The American Resort Development Association is the Washington D.C.-based professional association representing the vacation ownership and resort development industries. Established in 1969, ARDA today has over 1,000 members ranging from privately held firms to publicly traded companies and international corporations with expertise in shared ownership interests in leisure real estate. The membership also includes timeshare owner associations (HOAs), resort management companies, and owners through the ARDA Resort Owners Coalition (ARDA-ROC).

SOURCE American Resort Development Association

http://www.sunherald.com/447/story/546717.html


Linkback - ARDA - Tips on buying timeshare
]]> 5/9/2008 10:17:31 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4439 4439
Linkback - Free Holiday Pass & Holiday Packages
]]> 5/9/2008 10:16:33 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4438 4438
One in three European consumers are being misled or ripped off by websites selling airline tickets, the European Union's consumer chief said on Thursday, warning the industry to improve or face legal action.

"It is unacceptable that one in three consumers going to book a plane ticket online is being ripped off or misled and confused," EU Consumer Commissioner Meglena Kuneva told a news conference.

"But my message to industry is clear, act now or we will act. We will need to see credible evidence of improvement to clean up these sales and marketing practices within the airline sector by May 1st next year or we will be left with no choice but to intervene."

Kuneva was speaking after the publication of an investigation by Brussels into misleading advertising and unfair practices on airline ticket selling websites, including many run by leading airlines, across the 27-member bloc and Norway.

Following a previous probe by the EU executive in November, otherwise known as a "sweep", Kuneva warned airlines such as Ryanair and the owners of the other travel websites to improve their systems or face possible closure of their sites.

Online booking is critical for the EU airline travel industry, which Commission figures show caters to over 700 million passengers per year.

Thursday's report showed that over half of the 226 websites found to have breached EU consumer rules last November had now rectified their problems, but around 80 companies have still failed to address the concerns expressed by Brussels.

"This report shows there are serious and persistent problems with ticket sales throughout the airline industry as a whole," Kuneva said.

The probe found websites with unfair pricing, hidden charges and terms and conditions not translated properly.

The consumer chief said she intends to write to the 27 governments and hold talks with industry representatives, giving them one year to "get their house in order".

"She (Kuneva) can ask a government to close down any website which fails to meet the EU's requirements of if that country fails to act, she can take action against that government at the European Court of Justice which can result in hefty fines for both the government or the company," a spokeswoman for Kuneva said.

Due to legal reasons, only Norway and Sweden were able to publish the names of the offending airlines.

Ryanair -- Europe's largest low-cost carrier -- was named by both authorities, while Norway had an issue with Finland's Blue 1, Austrian Airlines and Swedish regulators are taking action against 12 travel websites.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7504813

Linkback - Travel websites mislead consumers
]]> 5/9/2008 9:45:51 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4437 4437
Concerns about the economic downturn are driving more customers to opt for self-catering and all-inclusive holidays, have said.

Bookings for self-catering properties through youtravel.com have seen a 105% increase during March and April, comparedwith September and October last year. All-inclusive hotel bookings have risen by 70% over the same period.

Youtravel.com sales and marketing director Paul Riches said: "As financial fears continue, people either want to have the most inclusive holiday possible, or tostrip everything out completely.

"Opting for self-catering means that people are able to choose what and when they want to eat, so there is little or no waste of food and drink. With an all-inclusive holiday, people have already committed to a set price and can use this as a budgeting tool for the rest of the holiday."

Hotels4u.com sales and marketing director John Harding has seen the same trend.

"People are more aware of their spending and want to control their budget more carefully. They are looking to increase value with all-inclusive holidays and self-catering, and are looking at a wider range of destinations, such as Tunisia and Morocco.

"We are also seeing more special offers coming in from hotels looking to offer added value," Harding added.

Meanwhile, bluebookonline.co.uk sales development executive David Smith said long-haul breaks were benefiting from fears about the euro.

Smith said: "I have noticed more sales forthe US, particularly Las Vegas and New York. Customers are cutting out the city breaks and spending more on their main sunshine break.

"People are really looking after the pennies now."


http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/05/08/27532/credit-crunch-drives-holidaymakers-to-self-catering-and.html

Linkback - Credit crunch = Rise in all-inc & self catering
]]> 5/9/2008 9:43:27 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4436 4436
This looks like a scam to me. However, I am keen to get shot of my timeshare week. What will happen if I just stop paying the annual maintenance fee. Will Petchey merely repossess (which would not worry me) or will they sue for payment of the maintenace fee?

Linkback - Petchey Leisure - Atlas Peak Red
]]> 5/8/2008 9:38:07 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4435 4435
I've just managed to get a week at the Monte Anfi in apartment 327. Does anyone know if this is a good location with views etc or if I should try and change it before I go?

Thanks for any help
Laura

Linkback - Monte Anfi Apt 327
]]> 5/8/2008 8:58:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4434 4434


BBC THREE’s flagship show ‘The Real Hustle’ is back for a huge new Series and we are looking for enthusiastic people to take part!

We’ve already starting filming and if you want to appear on television, then you can help us by setting up your families, friends or colleagues for some of the most fun and outrageous hustles we’ve attempted yet.

In particular, we are looking for someone who has access to some healthy funds & would seize an opportunity to double their money!!

If you know of anyone fitting the bill, get in touch NOW!
By simply emailing us at malamistry@objectiveproductions.com A.S.A.P. and we’ll get back to you right away!







Linkback - Have you been hustled or know someone who could be
]]> 5/8/2008 7:16:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4433 4433
WITH timeshare companies continuing to pull in complaints, the consumer watchdog and a timeshare exchange company here want more specific laws to rein them in.

Many aspects in a timeshare purchase can go wrong for the consumer, and the four-year-old Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act is too blunt a tool with which to regulate the industry, said the Consumers Association of Singapore (Case).

Elaborating, Case executive director Seah Seng Choon said the Act does not cover the nitty-gritty of timeshare ownership, marketing, purchase and resale.

'It is such a major consumer problem that it deserves more attention,' he said in reference to the shared ownership of a vacation home by a group of buyers who take turns to use the property at specific periods each year.

Timeshare companies have consistently topped the charts among consumer complaints here. Last year, 2,093 complaints were filed with Case. Of these, a fifth of the complainants were seeking redress or compensation.

Besides Case, Group RCI - the world's largest timeshare exchange company - also wants the industry here regulated. It wants, for example, such companies to be compelled to disclose financial information as well as issue title deeds to those who buy their properties.

RCI, which has 60 per cent of the world's timeshare resorts under its umbrella, allows buyers of timeshare vacations to make swops of vacation sites as long as these resorts are its members.

Mr Seah, picking up on the point about disclosing financial information, said it would give the consumer an idea of the companies' stability and how likely they are to close shop suddenly.

Referring to the issuing of title deeds, he said it would give consumers some reassurance against timeshare developers going bust and leaving them high and dry.

Both Case and Group RCI also want tighter rules on the sale and marketing of timeshare holidays.

For example, the 'cooling-off' period following a sale should be longer to give the buyer time to mull over his purchase; laws should also limit the length of time that timeshare companies can subject a buyer to their sales pitches.

Group RCI's vice-president of legal and government relations in the Asia-Pacific region, MsEdena Low, said the bad reputation of the industry, worth US$15 billion (S$20.4billion) globally, is cramping its growth in Singapore.

Group RCI submitted a 40-page White Paper to the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) last August, listing its recommendations for new timeshare legislation.

An MTI spokesman confirmed it had received the document, but said legislation was 'not a panacea' for consumers' woes.

Falling in line with laws will add to companies' operating costs which are usually passed on to consumers, she said.

She added that while the Act will be beefed up to extend the cooling-off period from three to five days, consumers also have to exercise judgment in their purchases.

http://www.straitstimes.com/Free/Story/STIStory_234760.html



Linkback - Singapore wants tighter timeshare laws
]]> 5/8/2008 8:37:38 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4432 4432
The low-budget carrier reported a 14.7% increase in passengers but admitted that the cost of carrying them had risen by £4 a customer due to the accelerating cost of fuel. Andy Harrison, easyJet chief executive, said the airline was weathering weak consumer spending but the oil price posed a severe threat to its profitability.

"The fuel price is clearly a big issue and is highly unpredictable. The profits we make in the full year depend on what happens to oil in the second half of the year. Your guess is as good as mine," he said. EasyJet, which generates its profits over the spring and summer, reported a trebling of its first half pre-tax loss to £57.5m - driven in part by higher fuel costs and the integration of a recent acquisition.

With the summer holiday season approaching, the group is still confident of making a "very substantial" profit for the full year. Its forward bookings are slightly up on last year, and Harrison said it was not seeing any decline in demand despite the economic uncertainty.

Analysts expect the Luton-based carrier to make a full-year profit of £150m but that number is predicated on the oil price staying between $115 and $120 a barrel. Oil reached a new record of $122 (£62.43) a barrel yesterday as analysts at Goldman Sachs, the investment bank, warned that the possibility of $150-$200 a barrel is "increasingly likely" over the two years.

EasyJet's first half loss, which was expected following its profit warning in March, was primarily caused by dearer jet fuel, which costs 80% more than a year ago.

Hedged at $75 a barrel

Rival airline Aer Lingus yesterday blamed fuel costs for an increase in its baggage charges. From tomorrow, it will cost £12 to check in a bag at the airport.

For EasyJet, every $1 increase in the cost of a barrel of oil cuts around £2.5m off its profits. Harrison claims the company's relatively young fleet - its 157 planes are three years old on average - give it an edge.

"A quarter of Europe's short-haul aircraft are at least 15 years old, so they burn 20% more fuel than our planes," he said.

EasyJet has some protection from the oil market through fuel hedging - a process whereby it acquires fuel at a fixed price for six month periods. The airline said 40% of its fuel needs for the rest of the financial year, until September, are hedged at around $75 a barrel. Harrison said the airline had a much lower level of hedging going into the next financial year.

Andrew Fitchie, analyst at Collins Stewart, said there would be "further pressure" in the next financial year as hedging positions at easyJet and other airlines unwind. Fitchie, who has a "sell" notice on the carrier, added that the market had not factored in the possibility of an economic downturn into the easyJet share price: "Consensus is only currently modelling the impact of increased fuel costs; a material economic slowdown is not being discounted and we believe this represents a further risk to the airlines and low cost carriers in particular."

Harrison added that more airlines would join the likes of MaxJet and Eos in slipping into insolvency as a result of high fuel prices, allowing airlines with stronger balance sheets, such as easyJet and Ryanair, to benefit from less competition.

"I see a number of desperate airlines who will be facing significant financial problems. We are looking at reduced profits. That's not nice but it's a lot better than looking at significantly increased cash flow problems."

EasyJet shares rose just over 3% today, gaining 9.25p to 306.75p. Yesterday they had slumped by 8% following Goldman's prediction and the latest record oil price, which analysts attributed to the weakening dollar and supply problems in Nigeria and Iraq.

Oil eased slightly today and was trading 31 cents lower at $121.53 a barrel this afternoon.

Harrison declined to speculate about how the price might move. "Oil is highly unpredictable, and there are a wide range of predictions from the so-called experts," he said.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2008/may/07/easyjetbusiness.theairlineindustry


Linkback - Easyjet says airlines at the mercy of oil prices
]]> 5/8/2008 8:34:19 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4431 4431
A spokesman for the association said that, rather than taking two foreign holidays, people may consider taking one long trip and attempting to offset the emissions before taking another break somewhere in the UK.

The representative said that UK holidays could be cheaper than foreign travel and also be less stressful.

He added: 'I think the UK has great scope for holidays.'

Despite the financial constraints that many British consumers will face this year, the majority of people are still expected to take a foreign holiday.

The AITO spokesman said: 'People are working very hard these days and they see a nice holiday as a necessity rather than a luxury.

'People are working longer hours, paying more tax and paying out an awful lot so a holiday is one thing we will take come hell or high water.'

http://news.opodo.co.uk/articles/2008-05-07/18582893-UK-has.php

Linkback - UK 'has great scope for holidays'
]]> 5/8/2008 8:32:32 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4430 4430


Linkback - Matchroom Country Club
]]> 5/7/2008 10:44:04 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4429 4429
Airline association IATA has called time on paper tickets from May 31, insisting passengers only be issued with electronic tickets. But these cannot be issued for about 4% of air journeys from the UK and Advantage has called for a six-month postponement.

It warns the deadline will stretch relationships between business travel agents and their clients to "breaking point".

There is particular concern about interline tickets, where a passenger transfers between airlines and issuing an e-ticket depends on the carriers agreeing to accept one another's tickets.

Advantage business travel director Norman Gage said: "Airlines that currently have paper-ticket interlining deals are dropping these because, come May 31, they don't know how they will pay each other."

He warned: "Global distribution systems might show a fare that it is not possible to book. It's going to be a nightmare for agents."

Advantage wrote to more than 50 airlines asking how they would handle business on routes on which it will not be possible to issue e-tickets and only six replied. Gage said: "Advantage is not against e-ticketing, but this deadline is not realistic."

IATA has so far resisted calls to postpone the deadline and said it has no plans to reconsider.

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/05/06/27515/travel-agents-warn-of-air-ticket-shambles.html

Linkback - Travel agents warn of air ticket shambles
]]> 5/7/2008 8:23:51 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4428 4428
Initial plans to set legal limits at European level to the size of carry-on cabin baggage in airplanes have been withdrawn by a Regulation which came into force yesterday[1] (5 May). In October 2006, security experts initially advised the European Commission to limit the maximum permitted size of cabin baggage throughout the EU to 56 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm. However, introduction was delayed pending in-depth studies and analysis ordered by the Commission. In its efforts to focus only on the most efficient security measures, the Commission considers that the effectiveness of this measure does not justify the additional costs and inconvenience to airline passengers.

Decisions about limits on the size, shape and number of cabin bags will therefore remain, as is the case today, in the hands of individual airlines who will continue to set limits to suit their aircraft. EU Member States will also retain the right to impose stricter limits if necessary to suit local circumstances or to respond to a specific terrorist threat.

Jacques Barrot, Vice President of the European Commission said "We must seek to balance security with passenger convenience. We already have very tough screening rules and before going any further I felt we should really analyse the benefits. In this case it is clear that the inconvenience of additional limits would outweigh the advance in security."

The initial plans[2] were part of a package of measures to improve the efficiency of security screening at airports, in the immediate aftermath of the discovery of an alleged plot to attack civil aviation in August 2006 in the United Kingdom. Restrictions on the size of cabin baggage size were supposed to start in May 2007[3], to allow airlines and airports sufficient time to make the necessary changes to procedures and to inform passengers accordingly. However, the Commission agreed to defer its introduction for another year in order to allow for further studies on the effectiveness of the planned legislation.

The rationale behind the limitation of baggage size was that the task of airport security staff to identify prohibited articles in cabin baggage is made more difficult by the size of the bag since larger bags generally contain more objects. However, studies concluded that the influence of baggage size on overall performance of security staff at airports was far less significant than other factors and that its effectiveness would not justify the additional costs and inconvenience.

The dimension of 56 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm was taken from the international airline organisation IATA, which still recommends this limit to its members as a maximum permitted cabin bag size.

[1] Regulation (EC) no 358/2008, OJ L111 of 23.4.2008, p.5

[2] Regulation (EC) No 1546/2006, OJ L236 of 17.10.2006, p.6

[3] The rulemaking allowed the possibility of some exemptions for oversized cabin baggage containing an item or items both too large to fit within the permitted bag size and valuable or fragile e.g. for musical instruments.



http://www.traveldailynews.com/pages/show_page/25662

Linkback - European level on cabin baggage withdrawn
]]> 5/7/2008 8:21:25 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4427 4427
Come across your forum, after doing some very recent research on the subject of timeshares, i still can't get my head around it fully - only been two days - so i thought I'd asked the experts, you!

Now, are you ready? Ok, please be a bit patient, as I've not got much of a clue here. We've have just returned from Cyprus - Paphos area (Pafos) for you sticklers, we got back on the 5th May 08. Whilst we was out their we was approached by a timeshare and holiday club touts, with there marvellous strach-cards, after ignoring most, we finally agreed to "try" one of these 90 minute presentations, after rubbing off three Monkeys!!

I'll cut to the chase now. At the end of a long 5 hours of sales pitches and a look around the property they wanted us to buy into, we finally got down to the "membership fee". The site was the PARADISE KINGS CLUB IN PAPHOS (Cyprus). A Gold Crown Resort, with five star facilities, which was involved with the Exchange Company RCI. After all what was shown, we, (surprising to ourselves) we showed a greater interest, then before. The fee they hit us with straight away was £8200 sterling. After a few questions asked, i found with interest on the loan - finance though GE MONEY - the actual price could amount to double this at £16000.

Well, i rejected this as it was far to much to take on as we're newlyweds and new home owners, but as they could see we was interested in the concept and what they promised they could offer, they than offered a counter offer. This is where i need advice on. The counter offer was for £4000, payable at £65 a month for 120 months (total payback, if not settle early is about £8000, interest apr at 17.6%). Now, they offered this reduced rate, with only the off peak specific week at the resort - week 2 - which is rated blue with RCI, a service charge of £258 per year, first year paid and with the £69 fee for the RCI booklets per year after the first two years. To clarify, this is for a one bedroom apartment sleeping up to four.

We finally agreed, to this, mainly as i knew we'd a 14-day cooling off period when we got back home. They even moved us up to the Paradise resort for the last two days of our holiday, which I got to say, is really impressive.

This is where I'm not sure on, we've no interest in really going back to Cyprus, and the only concept we liked was the exchange programme with RCI. The sales rep's showed us the offers and benefits on offer, when you exchange. We can exchange for fees of £108 per week in Europe or £155 per week worldwide, in these lovely resorts, which they show you.

I'm not convinced - as I've not receive any of my log in details for RCI yet - that'll be after the 14-day period expires! So, what they showed me, when i deposit my week, can i then book for say Florida in peak season? They said i could go anytime i wanted...even though my timeshare is in off-season. They then showed me the "bonus weeks" these ranging for about £99 to £150, they seemed to have resorts available at these prices peak season in all the locations we was interested in.... but i was wondering, if there's a catch.... they said you can book as many "bonus weeks" you want...they told me. Now for the Moon Palace in Mexico in Mid July going for £109 per week? Is that correct? is it as simple as that? Do you just click and book, or is there hidden catches i've not been shown? also hidden costs?


I really don't know much about timeshares as you can see...I'm learning, but does that seem good value? Or I'm i getting conned and should i run for the hills? Are RCI bonus weeks there and available all year around? They never went though the booking process you see, just showed me the prices, when doing a general search.

I am grateful of any advice, as we've about ten days to make up our minds...If I've missed information out I can supply it, my head is spinning a bit!

Thanks in advance for your time.

Lloyd

P.S I'VE ALSO GOT A £1000 POUNDS OF SKY INCENTIVES DISCOUNT VOUCHERS THEY GAVE US, SEEMS TO GO THOUGH A COMPANY CALLED FORCE TRAVEL AND LEISURE. I WAS TOLD I CAN USE THESE ON FLIGHTS ECT THOUGH ABTA BONDED COMPANIES...OR ARE THESE WORTHLESS?



Linkback - Advice Needed Please...
]]> 5/7/2008 1:25:04 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4426 4426
Linkback - www.warehouseproperties.eu
]]> 5/6/2008 12:35:24 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4425 4425
Emirates Airline has signed an agreement with leading UK-based insurer Bupa Travel Services to offer customers extra peace of mind when they travel.

Starting from the 23rd of last month, travelers managing their Emirates flight bookings online via www.emirates.com, will be able to opt for travel insurance protection which has been specially tailored for Emirates customers.

These offers include unlimited coverage in event of a medical emergency, credit card theft, and even kennel and cattery fees. Unlike most other offerings in the market, insurance coverage can be purchased by almost all nationalities (except residents of USA, Canada and Switzerland) for various trip durations, and for travelers up to the age of 80.

“This is a fantastic new addition to our services,” noted Emirates Area Manager, Khalid Al Serkal. “We are constantly looking for ways to improve client satisfaction, and make flying Emirates a more relaxed, enjoyable experience. Our new partnership with Bupa puts us another notch above the competition in terms of customer relations.”

Nigel Hopkins, Emirates’ Executive Vice President Service Departments was also excited, noting that “Emirates is pleased to partner with Bupa Travel Services to provide our customers with tailored travel insurance options, made conveniently available when they purchase their flights on-line with us.”

“Emirates’ customer base span the globe and we needed a high-quality insurance partner with an international reach to match our own. We are confident we have found the right fit in Bupa Travel Services, and look forward to working with them to deliver and develop more such value-added travel services for our customers around the world.”

Steve Flanagan, Commercial Director Bupa UK Membership agreed, noting: “We are proud to partner with one of the world’s leading airlines. Bupa has worked in consultation with Emirates to develop an exclusive and compelling insurance product that would be conveniently available to its customers around the world. We are confident that our product would prove popular, and we look forward to expanding our product range and relationship with Emirates.

http://www.albawaba.com/en/countries/Egypt/226931


Linkback - Travel assured with emirates and bupa
]]> 5/6/2008 7:55:50 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4424 4424
Timeshare buyers are cautioned about labeling their weeks as "investments." Think of it as prepaid vacations, timeshare developers famously say.

While an investment, especially in real estate, often stands an excellent chance of making money, the usual return on a timeshare typically centers on enjoyment rather than cash.

Timeshares continue to be big business -- more than $8 billion a year -- despite the sluggish economy. The American Resort Development Association reports that more than 4.5 million U.S. households own one or more timeshares in 1,604 resorts.

A growing number of entrepreneurs, with an exceptional grasp on how to purchase, close and sell timeshares have begun to acquire inexpensive weeks at upscale resorts via resale channels. They then rent out the properties at a weekly or a per-night rate comparable to what a nice hotel would charge.

"We have people who will go to our Web site and buy 10 weeks at a time," said John Locher, vice president of sales and marketing for Redweek.com, an online conduit for timeshare buyers, sellers, landlords and renters. "They have studied certain resorts and markets and know what's possible as far as rental income during a majority of the year.''

Steve Shermoen, a self-described "small-town attorney" from International Falls, Minn., said he now controls about 100 timeshare weeks and plans to spend most of his retirement years rotating through some of them in different parts of the world. Is he concerned about owning so many pieces of the only real estate asset class that always loses money when resold?

"You cannot make the rental concept work if you buy directly from the developer," Shermoen said. "You have to be sure of what you are buying and purchase only on the resale market. The cost from the developer simply is too high for it to become a rental that will pencil out."

Shermoen and others like him typically stick to Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton and other upper level properties that they can pick up at a fraction of the original purchase price. They often seek sellers who are extremely eager, often desperate, to dump a timeshare contract because of unexpected circumstances including loss of job, divorce or death. Many timeshare bargains can be found online right after the annual fees are announced for the coming year. As an attorney, Shermoen also offers to close the transaction at a discounted fee.

"Many people are grateful that there is a buyer who is willing to take the week off their hands,'' Shermoen said. "They simply are tired of paying the annual fee and can't wait to get out from under it.''

I was one of them, yet I didn't even consider renting it out. Nearly 20 years ago, I spent hundreds of dollars marketing the timeshare and considered myself extremely fortunate to get back most of my investment. While some people swear it's the only way to travel with a family and that the international "bank" of resorts not only offers flexibility but also destinations they normally would not consider, it didn't happen for us. Basketball tournaments, family reunions, budget restraints and four different school schedules, coupled with the fact that we are very picky about accommodations, led to a three-year timeshare shutout. We owned the "points" for three years and never spent one night in a timeshare resort.

Timeshares come in a variety of packages, including a points program where owners exchange a specific number of accumulated points for a week, weekend or individual nights at resorts that participate in the points arrangement. Some of the larger timeshare companies now offer a point system, permitting owners to split the traditional week into smaller segments. The concept has worked very well for out-of-town family reunions, weddings or simply a needed weekend getaway.

The idea of breaking up the timeshare week into a few one-or-two night stays can also make sense for vacationers traveling a country by car. The average worker typically receives two or three vacation weeks each year and often prefers not to spend a large percentage of that time in one location.

The value of the points can vary greatly. For example, weekend nights will require more points than weeknight stays, and popular resorts will demand more points than a run-of-the-mill getaway. In addition, the future value of points also can be a consideration -- not unlike trying to predict the future value of money.

Similar to dollars, timeshare points can be worth a lot more today than they will be down the road. If a resort continues to increase the number of points necessary to rent the unit you covet, the value of your allotted points will decrease. You will need more annual points than the number you are receiving now to reserve the same unit. Seniors and other consumers on fixed incomes may not be getting the perpetual week they initially purchased, which could seriously curtail their dream vacations down the road.

Properly applying points and a resort's bonus time are just two pieces to successfully renting timeshares. There's also a huge caveat when shopping.

"Some people try to sell you weeks they don't really own," Shermoen said. "It's another one of the pitfalls to consider when buying and selling. Acquiring and renting out timeshares is complicated and not for the unwary. If you are going to jump in, you have to do your homework."

http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20080427/BIZ/242272025/1005/biz






Linkback - Investment in Timeshare?
]]> 5/6/2008 7:53:28 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4423 4423 Guess who it is:




More of the picture to be revealed daily.

The more that is revealed the less the reward.

Today is it worth 5 points!




Linkback - Guess who it is - 5th May
]]> 5/5/2008 5:11:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4422 4422
But, in order for a merged airline to win those benefits through consolidation, the two carriers -- reported to be deep in merger talks -- would have to take on the painful tasks of closing hubs, grounding planes and slashing jobs where United and US Airway overlap.

"There's definitely the potential for it," said Stuart Klaskin at KKC Aviation Consulting. "What I question is whether those two airlines will have the political will to actually do that."

Industry experts say the prime benefits of consolidation come from reductions in capacity -- the number of seats for sale. Less capacity lets carriers charge more for tickets.

In the last two years, major carriers have removed capacity from less profitable domestic routes and bolstered lucrative international routes. The strategy has led to higher ticket prices and stronger airlines.

Fare hikes, however, have not kept pace with rising fuel costs, which are directly linked to the soaring price of oil. As a result, airlines posted big losses in the first quarter, and pressure is mounting on carriers to merge.

"Absent the removal of meaningful capacity reductions from the domestic airline industry, you don't get substantial consolidation benefits," Klaskin said. "That's the ugly, sad truth."
Klaskin said a United/USAirways merger could lead to a 25 percent reduction in their combined capacity. But he predicted capacity cuts closer to 10 percent.

COMPLICATED PAIRING

Sources told Reuters this week that United and US Airways could reach a merger deal soon. An agreement would come on the heels of one announced last month by Delta Air Lines Inc and Northwest Airlines Corp, which are planning to form the world's largest airline, to be known by Delta's name.

The Delta deal features cost savings and revenue improvements amounting to about $1 billion a year. But the proposal currently offers no capacity reductions as the two airlines' operations have little overlap.

While Delta and Northwest may be depriving themselves of hefty cost savings, their pairing may have a relatively easy time winning approval from the U.S. Justice Department, labor unions and travelers.

United and US Airways, on the other hand, could face higher antitrust hurdles resulting from the strong presence of both airlines on the East Coast, especially in Washington D.C. They also would risk customer backlash if they cut service or raised fares in popular markets.

"The consumer won't like it. But the fact of the matter is the consumer won't like all these airlines going out of business either," said airline consultant Robert Mann.

Since March, four small airlines -- Aloha Airlines, Champion Air, ATA Airlines and Skybus Airlines -- have shut down amid increasingly hostile industry conditions.

Low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines Holdings Inc, meanwhile, filed for bankruptcy protection but said it would continue flying during its reorganization.

Experts say the industry desperately needs consolidation, but the jury is still out on what mergers make the most sense.

Although UAL Chief Executive Glenn Tilton and US Airways CEO Doug Parker have long advocated consolidation, their airlines may be particularly unenticing merger partners.
United, which completed a massive bankruptcy reorganization in 2006, suffered the largest first-quarter loss of the major airlines this year. The carrier still faces ill will from its labor groups, which made steep sacrifices to save the carrier.

US Airways, itself the product of a 2005 merger of America West Airlines and the former US Airways, still operates with two separate labor forces. The integration of a third labor force would present further complications, although experts generally believe labor issues would not torpedo a merger with United.

"It's not the most attractive pairing, but any kind of consolidation is good for the industry," said Jim Corridore, analyst at Standard & Poors'.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/feedarticle?id=7496935

Linkback - UAL/US Air merger could mean major capacity cuts
]]> 5/5/2008 8:58:05 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4421 4421
1. Schmap.com is a simple interactive mapping site that’s been well-received by delicious.com users. The site is a map-based travel guide to more than 200 places in the US, Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. You can customise the map to highlight sights and attractions, hotels, and so forth, then narrow your search by budget or preference.

There are lots of images and a good description of each entry plus, unusually, a link to the relevant website. There’s Windows and Mac versions and widgets that you can download and place on your blogs or social networking pages.

2. A new website www.townandcountry.ie has brought together more than 1,000 B&Bs across the country. The site has been launched by the Town and Country Homes Association, which represents the country’s small guesthouses.

It hopes to open the B&B market to international visitors because the site is bookable in Spanish, French, German, Italian and English. The site has a Google maps feature to search for properties by location and listings include a description, picture and details on facilities.

3. Walking websites abound – we’re already huge fans of the Ramblers Association website, but this is one that’s recently got our attention. Walking in England has more than 1,800 walks that you can download free of charge.

It’s an unsophisticated design but the content is comprehensive – with links out to walks, maps, books on walking and walking groups around the country. There are 24 counties so far, with more being added in the future.

4. If you need more than a print-out and an OS map for your walk, a new website is offering audiowalks around London. Soundmap walks can be downloaded onto an MP3 player or CD for £5.99.

The walks promise hidden gems and amusing anecdotes and include jaunts around Brick Lane, Camden and Chelsea’s Kings Road. They are narrated by authors and journalists and include a printable map to accompany the walk.

5. Passporty.co.uk is a useful little website launched by a photography business in South Yorkshire. The service on offer is the production of passport and visa photographs from digital camera stills. You email them a picture of you, taken according to their instructions, e.g. good light, plain facial expression etc., then they touch it up and send it back to you in the correct format for a cost of around £10.

Of course, you could always visit your local passport photography studio, but for those who can’t find the time, this is a useful option – and even if you don’t use the service, the tips are handy.

6. The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic is celebrating after it snatched the top website award at the Enjoy England Excellence Awards 2008. The site relaunched in October 2006 with improved search feature and multimedia content. Judges of the awards praised it for its podcasts, seat view pictures, and “remind me about this event”. There’s even an online car-sharing service for concert-goers.

7. Lonely Planet has launched its own travel channel on YouTube. The guidebook publisher has got 27 videos online at the moment – but more are being added every week. They are an entertaining mixture of energetic shorts compered by bright young things.

The videos are more professionally produced than your normal YouTube film, and are short, punchy and fun – a good addition to your travel research. There’s clips from LonelyPlanet.tv, the company’s user video upload site, and behind-the-scenes footage from Lonely Planet TV shows.

8. Thomas Cook is planning to launch a section on its website for hotel reviews written by its customers. The reviews will launch by the end of July with around one million ratings that have been collected on paper from holidaymakers over the past year.

All reviewers will have to prove they stayed at the hotel by producing a booking reference and they will be incentivised to write reviews from time to time with prizes or vouchers. Thomas Cook has promised not to weed out any negative reviews and says it will link to the reviews from various pages across the site.

9. Low cost airline in shock positive news story? easyJet has impressed the fastidious readers of Which? Holiday magazine. The carrier was voted the number one website for booking flights in a survey of 3,000 flyers. Easyjet.com was praised for its intuitive design, and facility to filter search results.

According to the consumer magazine, website users are most frustrated by having to register with a website before using it, slow loading times, and inflexible search dates.

10. Apparently a simple “Do not Disturb” sign is too boring for hotels these days, so they’re coming up with more imaginative ways of letting guests tell staff to leave them in peace? In a bid to come up with a witty slogan, The Embassy Suites hotel chain in America invited people to send in their best efforts.

The winner was: “Shh! I’m hatching a plan to bust some little soaps out of here.” To see some of the other entries, which range from the amusing to the saccharine, go to www.embassysuitesdndcontest.com/winners.

http://travel.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/travel/news/article3848828.ece



 



Linkback - 10 travel websites to watch: May
]]> 5/5/2008 8:53:59 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4420 4420
Jamaican Government is currently working on a Timeshare legislation to re-introduce the concept of vacation ownership to the Jamaican market, which it beleives will be a gateway for the country to penetrate the luxury tourism market.

Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, made the announcement at a timeshare symposium held at the Hilton Hotel on Tuesday. He noted that Cabinet has already approved and given the green light to proceed with the development of the legislation, which he is anticipating will be passed by the House in 2009. A team has been established consisting of various government departments and agencies to create the legislation.

The minister said that the timeshare concept will be an integral development tool for Jamaica to make inroads in the high-end tourist market, a market in which he said Jamaica is way behind its regional competitors.

"I thought that one of the things that really required a will to do was to bring timeshare legislation to Jamaica," said Bartlett. "We decided to pull things together because this political administration has the will to do it and we know that 'where there is a will, there is a way'.

"We wanted to do this because the Caribbean area is now a very hot spot for development and when you look at what is happening in Turks and Caicos, St Lucia, St Barts and some of the other destinations that are tapping into the top end of the market, the question has to be asked what is happening to Jamaica?" continued the minister.

Conceptualised in Europe in the 1960's, timeshare is a property, typically a resort condominium unit, in which multiple parties have rights to use. The notion essentially provides more options for holidaymakers, and by bringing it to Jamaica, the minister said that it will increase both visitor arrivals and the spend of the tourists.

In terms of driving traffic, Bartlett said that "timeshare is second to none".

When someone comes, for example, to visit their room, you can have an infinite number of visitors just coming to view before they actually sign and make a decision to purchase," noted the minister. "After the purchase, you have the vacation time which they spend and even after that, there is multiple use of that same space by scores and scores of individuals.

Bartlett reasoned that the wider economy will benefit as timeshare users are typically tourists whose preference is not limited to the all-inclusive resort concept.

"We not only want visitors to come, we want them to spend and we want them to spend and spend and spend," noted Bartlett. "We dont have timeshare that lends itself to the all-inclusive concept; the tendency is for condos to operate as each and the more you have is the more expenditures they are using on the ground so the communities around can benefit from the floating effect of the dollar in the economy.

However, the minister stressed that it is imperative that the country has the infrastructure in place to facilitate the benefits that timeshare can bring to the island's tourism product. He specifically highlighted the government's exploration of the idea to build a jet airport in St Thomas, and the multibillion dollar Harmony Cove and Palmyra developments in Trelawny and Montego Bay respectively.

"We want to make a statement to the world that Jamaica is open and ready for business in all areas of the luxury tourism market; we can't make a statement if we are lacking in the infrastructure to support the development," said Bartlett.

Present at the symposium were executives from Resort Condominums International (RCI), the premier company in the timeshare exchange market. Timeshares offer owners the possibility of exchanging their rights to stay at one of the thousands of other resorts worldwide. RCI represents 66 per cent of the over 7300 resorts in the global timeshare market.

Juan Rodrigues, RCI vice president of business development, said that, for timeshare to work in Jamaica, it is both critical that government implements the appropriate framework, as well as for many hotel developers to come on stream to widen the product offering.

"This is a joint effort because we need the government; if this is not in policy, this won't happen," said Rodrigues. "Also, we need the developers; the entrepreneurial minds that every country needs, and groups like us, RCI, that can be percieved as facilators."

Rodrigues emphasised that Jamaica needs to revisit its tourism product to create a niche in the market.

We need to create, together, the Jamaican story," noted Rodrigues. "It is a very different thing when one talks about 'I am going to Jamaica for holiday' than 'I am going to invest my money in Jamaica for vacation ownership'.

The RCI executive said that it is going to be very hard for Jamaica to penetrate the luxury market if it doesnt start "changing the story". He said that the island should revolutionise its heavily dependent all-inclusive concept.

Innovation for me in Jamaica would be moving from the concept that you can go there and take the all-inclusives," said Rodrigues. "The perceived value of the all-inclusive is 'I don't want to go out there'.

People think of the all-inclusive as having a hamburger and a beer by the pool, and from a timeshare perspecive they say they'll rather have a kitchen," continued Rodrigues. "So you have to create a different story and provide different types of experiences...Jamaica has very nice people, great beaches, beautiful spots etc.

However Rodgrigues noted that security measures will be integral to Jamaica being able to indeed shift from the traditional all-inclusive concept.

"People want to be in a safe place; they don't want the hassle. They want to go to the airport and get to a shuttle with no problems," he said.

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/magazines/Business/html/20080501T230000-0500_135164_OBS_JAMAICA_TO_INTRODUCE_TIMESHARE_LEGISLATION.asp





Linkback - Jamaica to introduce timeshare legislation
]]> 5/5/2008 8:49:20 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4419 4419
Whilst on holiday a tout working for Freedom Vacations offered to make me some concrete boots and throw me into the sea, why??? coz I happened to mention that they were timeshare related when approached, losing them a possible sale as another couple overheard what I was saying. The tout pretended to have no knowledge that Interval International was an exchange company, he said it was a cheap way of getting holidays, he did not like it when I said he was just selling the unsold inventory (Get Aways) and that getting what you wanted when you wanted it was almost impossible and that they were promising the world, but in fact all they were doing was scamming people. Needless to say, these bullies are the worst and what comes around goes around. So if anyone is approached by Freedom Vacations, then ask yourself, would a reputable company threaten another with violence and death. Now some may say that the threat was done by some desperate sales man, but a manager was right by me, trying to shut me up also, at no time did the manager halt the threats. Needless to say, they were empty threats (thank God).

Kind regards

Sue

Linkback - Freedom Vacations - BEWARE
]]> 5/4/2008 4:50:31 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4418 4418
Linkback - Transfer fees- Beverley Hills Club?
]]> 5/4/2008 11:50:06 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4417 4417
I am selling my timeshare has anyone had experience with Travel Leisure Group? Or can anyone reccomend a company?

Linkback - Travel Leisure Grp Yes or No
]]> 5/3/2008 10:52:00 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4416 4416
"Prior to his engagement at DRI, Cunliffe held various positions with Anfi del Mar located on Spain’s Gran Canaria and known as one of Europe’s most exclusive resorts. Neil started with Anfi in 1998, was awarded T.O. (take over manager) of the year in 2000 with a sales volume of over $12 million (approximately €8 million). He took responsibility for sales and marketing to the British market in 2004 and became Sales Division Manager in 2005"

My understanding is that Anfi has been in the doggy doos over the past few years and is only just starting to recover. That being the case I assume that Mr Cunliffe was involved with Anfi during the problem period.
Is his move to DRI better news for DRI or for Anfi? Cotswolder may be able to shed some light on this one.

Linkback - Is this actually good news for DRI
]]> 5/2/2008 8:29:35 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4415 4415
Apologies for altering your topic hesder text but it will alert more people and possibly save them money.

Linkback - Is this a scam by BMS?
]]> 5/2/2008 4:01:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4414 4414
I've just stumbled across your site when looking for info on Anfi on the net. We've just returned from a week's holiday and have purchased a week at Anfi Beach Club. I was interested to read about the deposit as we had to pay a deposit in excess of £1000 at the time of signing our contract!! The cooling off period is 10 days and this is just about to expire, is it worth me pursuing the refund/extended cooling off time?

The other thing that concerns me is the fact that it isn't as easy to buy extra weeks as they make out. We have purchased week 16 and are hoping to get week 15 as an extra week next year but it would appear that it's not going to be as easy as that or am I just going into panic mode now??

The other thing I wasn't aware of was that when I pass this down to my family, they won't have the luxury of the RCI exchange programme, I knew you lost it if you sold privately but I thought you could pass it down to family.

Can you also help me with another question - If I am booking extra holidays for my daughters through RCI do I need to pay for a guest certificate. I know I don't have to for Anfi but it's not clear when using the RCI network.

If you can think of any other words of warning or any advice for a newbie it would be much appreciated.

Sorry for all the questions but your site really has given me some food for thought - thanks.

M

Linkback - New Member at Anfi
]]> 5/2/2008 3:46:28 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4413 4413 Since his departure some of the unsavoury characters that were dismissed by The Former Company when they were 're-organizing' have been spotted again at Club del Carmen.
Mr. Cloobeck, the thieves are taking over again, watch your back (and your company's bank balance) very carefully.

Linkback - JoseLuis Bahillo
]]> 5/2/2008 8:40:47 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4412 4412
Las Vegas, Nev. - May 2nd, 2008 -- Diamond Resorts International® (DRI), a global leader in the vacation ownership industry, has appointed Neil Cunliffe as Director of Sales, European Operations for DRI. Cunliffe’s primary responsibilities will be to ensure that the DRI product is presented in a manner consistent with DRI’s brand tenets of simplicity, choice and comfort; to assist in the development of new and innovative products; to guide and motivate the European sales team members; and to manage the sales performance of DRI European operations. Cunliffe will report to Marty Kandel, President of European Operations for DRI.

“We need strong and passionate leadership for our sales team in Europe,” says Marty Kandel. “Neil’s background, commitment to an ethical sales process and experience in motivating sales teams through honest and respectful communication supports our goals for future growth and member satisfaction.”

Prior to his engagement at DRI, Cunliffe held various positions with Anfi del Mar located on Spain’s Gran Canaria and known as one of Europe’s most exclusive resorts. Neil started with Anfi in 1998, was awarded T.O. (take over manager) of the year in 2000 with a sales volume of over $12 million (approximately €8 million). He took responsibility for sales and marketing to the British market in 2004 and became Sales Division Manager in 2005 where he managed timeshare and freehold sales budgets for both cold line and in-house operations with a sales team of 250 and annual gross sales revenue in excess of approximately $160 million (€100 million) in volume. Neil is the author of Anfi's definitive sales manual "The Ten Steps to Success” and is a recognized expert in the field of sales training and the development of sales processes.

“We feel fortunate to have on board such a passionate and motivational manager with a well rounded skill set to lead the charge in driving and managing sales performance for DRI Europe,” says Simon Crawford-Welch, Ph.D., RRP, President and COO of DRI. “Neil’s views and positions on sales ethics, branding and personal commitment are well aligned with the brand and sales philosophies of Diamond Resorts International®.”

Diamond Resorts International®, based in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest vacation ownership companies in the world with more than 110 branded and affiliated resorts in 14 countries with destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to its more than 360,000 owners and members through the branded service of more than 5,500 team members worldwide, Diamond Resorts International® is dedicated to providing its guests with effortless and relaxing vacation experiences every time, for a lifetime.

For more information, please visit DiamondResorts.com

Contact: Kimberly Perette
Tel US: (702) 261 1005
Tel International UK: +44 (0)1524 845517


Linkback - Press Rrelease 2nd May 2008
]]> 5/2/2008 8:36:04 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4411 4411 in malaga

Linkback - scams
]]> 5/1/2008 7:05:26 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4410 4410 Morelly

Linkback - Timeshare Scams (DGS Brokers)
]]> 5/1/2008 8:46:13 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4409 4409
Linkback - selling june uk week, this year only
]]> 5/1/2008 12:13:49 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4408 4408 I have used Link removed exchanged my timeshare for property. There were very good.

Morelly

Linkback - Timeshare Forum (DGS Brokers)
]]> 4/30/2008 5:12:03 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4407 4407
Linkback - Timeshare Resale
]]> 4/30/2008 2:02:46 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4406 4406
To my surprise, I received a call from an RCI rep offering me accommodation way before the time I would normally be allowed to book. When I asked how he could do it and other reps couldn't, he said some of them have the authority to 'look further' than others. Well, I wasn't complaining as I got the exchanges I wanted. In fact I made a point of remembering his name for future!

He was extremely helpful and said RCI was there to work for us as we paid for it so we should be able to get what we wanted. I don't know how he did it but I wish more of them were like him.

I'd be interested to know if this has happened to anyone else.

Linkback - Points 10 month booking window
]]> 4/29/2008 10:24:57 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4405 4405
2008 maintenance fees is fully paid. No points have been used this year and there are 18000 points banked for next year.

We would like £1,200, with the buyer paying the transfer fee of £299.

Anybody interested?



Linkback - 9000 Diamond Resort points for sale
]]> 4/29/2008 9:05:57 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4404 4404 Have you bought a taster package (apparently they last for 35 months)?

Have you had a problem with it?

Did you try to get a refund?

On the other hand:

Did it work out for you?

Did you find it a good starting point to buy into timeshare with your particular developer?

Someone who has never bought a timeshare, never bought a taster package; come to think of it has never personally had anything to do with the industry in anyway shape or form has been on these forums making out that there is a huge problem with them.

I for one would like to know if anyone has any personal experience of these packages and what they think/thought of them?

Timesharetalk has always been at the forefront of "outing" the sharks in the industry and the dodgy dealings - we are more than happy to hear from anyone who has personal experiences of this sort of thing.




Linkback - Taster Packages
]]> 4/28/2008 10:11:50 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4403 4403
So, for Jackie...

Guess who it is:



More of the picture to be revealed daily

The more that is revealed, the less the reward.

Today it is worth 6 points!

Linkback - Guess who it - 27 April (honest!)
]]> 4/28/2008 8:50:29 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4402 4402 Of course they never do.
I was persuaded to buy 2 weeks at the luxurious Regency Country Club in Tenerife, and I was told , my two weeks at Royal Park Albatros would be sold soon for £17000 less 10% commission.
After seven years of fighting this and many promises they sold out to Petchey and of course no one will honour ANY verbal promise or agreement.
I finally decided this year to convert Albatros weeks to Infiniti points to at least get more value, more weeks a year, for my double investment.
And if any other frustrated owner is interested to join me in a consortium with Infiniti there can be big financial benefits. Ask for details.

Linkback - THe promise to resell weeks when resales commence
]]> 4/28/2008 3:21:45 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4401 4401


Barry

Linkback - Mo's legs
]]> 4/27/2008 8:14:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4400 4400
Anyone here have any knowledge of this company.

My parents were called recently by a woman saying they had 3 possible interested parties in the timeshare week they are desperate to offload.One of the parties apparently is prepared to offer £4000(which is way more than we would be happy to unload it for)The catch is they have to pay a one-off fee of £95 for lawyers fees/admin etc.The woman was keen to state that we only send the deeds once the cheque clears in our account but that there is no guarantee the potential buyer will go through with the purchase,so basically 'send us £95 but we can't promise you anything although we will make you a priority case if this potential buyer falls through'.

She left a phone number and name and address of the company although my internet searches and even a check on Companies House comes up blank.

Is this yet another scam?

Many thanks for any help or advice recieved

Linkback - Tradeweeks
]]> 4/27/2008 7:55:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4399 4399 [?]

Linkback - Heritage Resorts
]]> 4/27/2008 5:22:13 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4398 4398 I intend to leave this open for your posts on current visits to resorts.
Both positives and negatives are welcome, with one proviso.

Think! Am I nit picking !!

We will make this a sticky so it stays up front.

Linkback - Are DRI improving your holiday experience?
]]> 4/26/2008 10:02:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4397 4397
I am surprised that some people don't seem to know about the taster package - not subject to timeshare or any other regulations.

It costs about £4,000 and it is what they sell you when you come in to a points agent.

You get the "free" (£30.00/40.00 per person administration fee) holiday which forms part of it, and then a number of holidays for the next 35 months. It is sold when the person first finds out about the full cost of points says "I can't afford that" and is then sold a lesser package. Were it 36 months it would be subject to regulation. That is why it is less than 36 months.

Getting rid of that problem by offering a 14 day cooling off period would get rid of most of the sharks.

The presentation which is part of the "free" holiday at the resort is where people are told they will be shown the properties and in fact can last up to 8 hours high pressure selling. In the trade they are called "fly-buys" for obvious reasons.

Slight correction - I wasn't talking about two salespeople - you can only go to the presentation if it is two (partners) usually husband and wife. The reason is that if you go without your partner - there is a perfect get out - "I have to go and ask my husband/wife before I buy".

I have slept on the detailed holiday costs that Mo-Mo talked about at the Edinburgh Residence and I wonder if the position is as follows.

First of all all hotels have "rack" rates which they will sell if you know how to get them. They are generally available to trade only.

It is what is used for example on weekend coach tours to London Theatres which from my area used to cost about £110.00 with theatre ticket in a hotel where the standard price for a room itself is around £180.00 each - so it is clearly a bargain.

Were I selling Points I would show those prices at the Edinburgh Residence (or wherever) and suggest this is an example of the savings that can be made when you have your own points.

Suppose you regularly stayed at the Edinburgh Residence paying top whack - you would clearly see this as a bargain. But of course it is not a regular saving (I am fairly sure) - but a one off for some reason. I might not stress that too much were I selling points and I would suggest that this is one of the main points of contention and why there are - which you must admit - so many unhappy people who have purchased points.

The other point I cannot for the life of me fathom is that someone has clearly negotiated a great deal (with the Edinburgh Residence or similar) why they are not telling the world about it?

If I had a regular supply of low cost plasma TV's (say) then I would be advertising them as fast as I could go.

I certainly wouldn't need to sell them by enticing people onto premises with offers of low-cost holidays and scratch cards and them have them face a salesperson or two for a couple of hours (or as you say Mo Mo often longer).

Finally why are they only allowed to be sold to other members?

Well of course, if they were sold on the open market it would cut out a large income stream for the sales company.

Suppose you were like the person who said in another thread " I have had full value for the investment I made in points" - but added "I would now like to sell them and not bothered how much I get" - that would devalue all the existing points in fact given people like that there would be no point in anyone paying the start-up fee.

Doesn't happen with second-hand cars which don't lower the price of new ones - why should it happen to Points?

If people respond to this thread would you be kind enough to note I have not named any company in it - so please respond in kind.











Linkback - Selling Timeshare
]]> 4/26/2008 9:21:50 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4396 4396 We own points with Atlas which is now Petchy Leisure . Does anybody know how we would go about selling our points . Or if it came to it could we cut our losses and give them back to stop paying maintinence
fees

Linkback - Selling Points
]]> 4/26/2008 6:27:18 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4395 4395
Linkback - Matrix Marketing SW
]]> 4/25/2008 12:00:27 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4394 4394
I'll kick it off

Package Holidays

Unless you can go at short notice they cost you a fortune in the School Holidays.

They offer you free child places but then make the money back on under occupancy supplements.

The Brochures very rarely match the descriptions (examples from our experiences below)

I have said this a number of times before but, we went to Rhodes and there were twice as many doors on the building than were on the picture in the brochure. They had halved the size of the units.

We went to one location and the brochure said "Some aircraft noise may be heard", what they ommitted to say was that you can see the people actually sitting on the plane - they were that close and that noisey!

We went to another location and we had three fridges in the apartment - one on the doorstep (broken), one in the kitchen (broken) and one in the kitchen (barely working). This apartment also had not a single piece of matching crockery - most of what was there was badly chipped or cracked.

My time is precious to me and when I go on holiday it is to relax. I do not expect to spend most of my holiday chasing reps around complaining about the standard and quality of the apartments.

Timeshare

It costs more to start with but you know what you are getting, and it is of a higher standard than any package holiday I have ever come across in my life.

Though there is an expensive initial outlay, through only having to pay your Management Fees and flights each year, you actually ave money each year on your holidays. Thus the thing owes you less and less over the time you have it.

We have 21500 DRI points and we now believe that they owe us nothing at the end of this year (after 8 years)

My Parents (Dad no longer with us) loved their trips away with us compared to going on package deals - so much so that we are now buying some more points for my Mum to use. Can't say fairer than that!

What do you think?



Linkback - Package Holidays vs Timeshare
]]> 4/24/2008 10:51:17 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4393 4393
You can stop for up to 5 days at 10% of the points value per night (Sunday to Thursday Nights) and 2 days at 30% (Friday and Saturday nights). There are some people on other sites compaining about this new flexibility, but in real terms it will not cost that much more in points for a midweek break, and less for a weekend break.

Mulling it all over I have conisdered the following:

Will the sudden extra flexibility allow people with fewer points to stay at some resorts?

Will this be popular and impact on the number of full weeks avaiable?

I guess my real question is - Do DRI plan to ringfence a number of units for this purpose to avoid impacting on those members wanting full week breaks?



Linkback - The new flexible breaks
]]> 4/24/2008 7:32:11 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4392 4392
Disney plans to add a Tinker Bell attraction at Disneyland in October, 253 rooms to the Grand Californian Hotel and Spa and new rides and themed lands to Disney's California Adventure.

At some point, Disney might add a third theme park on 88 acres of land next to Disneyland and possibly operate two hotels proposed for the Anaheim GardenWalk, Grier told a crowd of about 150 at an Orange County Forum event Wednesday.

"We had great success with the 50th anniversary (of Disneyland)," Grier said. "Now it's about how we keep that momentum going."

Here are Disney's Anaheim expansion plans:

A Tinker Bell attraction will open at Disneyland in October. This was the first time Grier mentioned the attraction, and he was short on details. All he would say is that "we know how special she is to all our guests" and that she will be in Disneyland in October. That timing coincides with the Oct. 28 Disney DVD and Blu-ray release of "Tinker Bell," the first in a new franchise of original movies that include the Peter Pan-movie character along with other fairies.

California Adventure expansion plans were announced in October and are expected to be completed by 2012. Those $1.2 billion plans include: a land based on the "Cars" movie, a "Little Mermaid"-themed ride, a new 1920s plaza, an interactive "Toy Story Mania!" ride opening this summer and a "World of Color" show in the lagoon. Leaving the park is the Golden Gate Bridge structure, tall letters spelling out "California" and the Golden Dreams theater. Grier said the expansion is intended to bring more "memorable attractions" and "more Disney" to the theme park.

The Grand Californian Hotel and Spa is adding 253 rooms, including its first timeshare-type villas on the West Coast. The capacity will increase by about 30 percent – up to 998 rooms – at the hotel that Grier said has "very strong occupancy rates."

A third theme park was hinted at by Grier on Wednesday. "We do see a tremendous opportunity on our 88 acres of land," Grier said.

Two GardenWalk hotels may be operated by Disney. Grier only told the crowd that Disney is continuing to look into operating two new hotels in the GardenWalk – a hotel, shopping and dining center between Katella Avenue and Disney Way that includes plans for up to 866 hotel rooms.

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/disney-grier-disneyland-2025017-hotel-plans#


Linkback - Disneyland Resort president discusses expansion
]]> 4/24/2008 6:13:04 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4391 4391
Airlines greeted a Competition Commission report that appears to herald the break up of airport operator BAA with enthusiasm.

However, uncertainty about the ownership of Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted may hinder resolution of problems at the airports.

Analysts suggest BAA may seek buyers for Gatwick and one of its airports in Scotland - Glasgow, Edinburgh or Aberdeen.

The Competition Commission has yet to make any recommendations. But its interim report published on Monday expressed concern at BAA's "apparent lack of responsiveness to the needs of airline customers and passengers".

Commission chairman Christopher Clarke admitted it is "difficult to know" how airport ownership would look following a break-up. Some airlines have called for terminals within airports to be operated by separate companies.

The uncertainty could drag on for some time, with the commission only due to publish provisional findings in August.

In the meantime, BAA parent Ferrovial may rein in investment in businesses it might no longer control after paying £10.3 billion for the airports in 2006.

Competition lawyer Ian Giles, of Norton Rose LLP, warned: "Unbundling the long-term contracts BAA has entered will be complex and difficult, as well getting value for the BAA assets to be sold."

When BAA was privatised in 1987 the Tory government of the time rejected demands for its break up on the grounds that this would hinder investment

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/04/23/27396/airlines-welcome-competition-commission-report-on-baa.html


Linkback - Competition Commission report on BAA Welcomed
]]> 4/24/2008 6:09:05 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4390 4390
Booking a holiday over the internet has become so popular that only one in five people use a travel agent, according to a new survey.

58 per cent of people prefer to book online, while just 21 per cent go through a retailer, according to a survey of 1,000 adults by internet research company Ciao Surveys. The remainder use the telephone to book direct.

The study also found that more than half of UK residents, 59 per cent, take one or more leisure trips per year and are prevented from travelling more often because of lack of money, time and work commitments.

The majority of people, 56 per cent, go away to find sun and relaxation, while 45 per cent enjoy sightseeing and 33 per cent enjoy comfort and fine dining. Around 14 per cent of people go on holiday for a life changing experience.

Australia is the most aspirational destination for 25 per cent of people, with 20 per cent opting for North America and 18 per cent for Europe.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/travelnews/1899689/Just-one-in-five-holidays-booked-with-agent.html


Linkback - Just 1 in 5 book holidays with travel agents
]]> 4/24/2008 6:06:20 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4389 4389
A new release has been received and will be posted as per the above instructions.

I think that works out at 10 pm tomorrow night but it can be disputed by those with a better understanding of PST than I. [8D]

Here is the full release.
I decided to wait until 10pm our time just to be sure.


INDUSTRY VETERAN APPOINTED AS SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, RESORT ACQUISITION & DEVELOPMENT FOR DIAMOND RESORTS INTERNATIONAL®

Las Vegas, Nev. - April 23, 2008 -- Diamond Resorts International® (DRI), a global leader in the vacation ownership industry, has hired Doug Kinsey as Senior Vice President, Resort Acquisition & Development. Kinsey’s primary responsibilities will be the acquisition, planning, design and development of DRI properties to support the company’s aggressive growth strategy. Kinsey will report to Stephen J. Cloobeck, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DRI.

“We have a responsibility to both our investors and our owners and members to ensure our growth is well planned and well-managed,” says Stephen J. Cloobeck, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DRI. “Doug has a proven track record in identifying and leveraging strategic acquisition and development opportunities that will support our plans for sustained growth and ongoing profitability.”

Prior to his engagement at DRI Kinsey served as Senior Vice President of Acquisitions and Development at Bluegreen Corporation where he developed the company’s product standards, construction processes and procedures and led an acquisition and development team that developed over 1200 units in 31 locations with a capital development budget of over $250 Million. During the time Kinsey was with Bluegreen, annual sales volumes grew from $200M to over $600M. Prior to Bluegreen, Kinsey served as Senior Vice President of Real Estate Acquisitions for Fairfield Resorts. Under his direction, Fairfield acquired three vacation ownership companies and 17 new projects representing over 2,700 condominium units, with acquisition and development costs of approximately $870 million and over $3.5 billion in timeshare inventories. During this same period Fairfield’s sales volume grew from less than $70 million to over $600 million annually.

Prior to Fairfield, Kinsey served as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at NACO/Thousand Trails, Inc. In this position, he was responsible for leading 370 management, sales and support staff at 9 full-service resorts and 29 RV Parks in eighteen states.

“Doug’s expertise in all areas of resort development is key to the Diamond Resorts International® growth strategy,” says Simon Crawford-Welch, Ph.D., RRP, President and COO of DRI. “His insight and ability to understand the big picture make him the ideal addition to the team. Our goals are aggressive and Doug is the perfect candidate to meet and exceed them.”

Mr. Kinsey holds a B.S.B.A. in finance from Western Carolina University.

Diamond Resorts International®, based in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest vacation ownership companies in the world with more than 110 branded and affiliated resorts in 14 countries with destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to its more than 360,000 owners and members through the branded service of more than 5,000 team members worldwide, Diamond Resorts International® is dedicated to providing its guests with effortless and relaxing vacation experiences every time, for a lifetime.

For more information, please visit DiamondResorts.com

Contact: Kimberly Perette
Tel US: (702) 261 1005
Tel International UK: +44 (0)1524 845517





Linkback - Press release
]]> 4/23/2008 11:15:58 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4388 4388
Linkback - timeshare sales ltd
]]> 4/23/2008 6:47:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4387 4387
Week #26 - Saturday to Saturday - falls on 4th of July. Resort is a 5 minute drive from Disneyland.

IMAGES & FLOORPLAN: http://www.flickr.com/photos/25235820@N02/?saved=1

Notable Details:
- All bills and maintenance up to date and paid for 2008
- Owners of Westgate Timeshares have the option of staying at a different Westgate Resort location year to year, in a unit of the same value, for a small fee (approx. $130).
- Sleeps 6 comfortably (more if Queen Size pullout Sofa is used)
- 5 Star property
- Very spacious unit - approximately 1050 square feet / 100 square meters
- Westgate Vacation Villas are all renovated/updated on a regular basis.
- 1 Mile from Disneyland
- Week #26 falls on the 4th of July.
- There is an almost limitless variety of things to do both inside and outside the resort (listed below).

Unit Includes:
- Dining Area
- Full Living Room
- Fully Equipped Kitchen
- 1 King size bed, 2 Double beds and a Queen Sized Sleeper Sofa (in Living Room)
- Washer/Dryer
- Whirlpool Tub
- Porch area with table and chairs
- 3 TV's

Resort Amenities Include:
- Wireless Internet
- 18 Hole Miniature Golf
- Tennis Courts
- Activities Program
- Marketplace & Deli
- Arcade
- Basketball
- Disney Planning Center
- Fine Gifts Outlet
- Heated Swimming Pools
- Kid's Club
- Marina
- Volleyball

Nearby Attractions Include:
- Universal Studios Florida
- Daytona Beach Boardwalk & Pier
- Daytona USA
- Canaveral National Seashore
- Discovery Cove
- Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Disney's Magic Kingdom
- Disney-MGM Studios
- Epcot
- Island of Adventure
- Museum of Art & Sciences (MOAS)
- SeaWorld Orlando

If you're interested, please make an offer. Note that this unit for week #26 goes for $19,900 if purchased from the resort. To confirm this, contact the Sales Dept. at: 1800 651 7606.

As well, Westgate rents this unit to non-owners during the 4th of July week, at $315 US per night, which comes to $2205 for the full week (taxes included).

For more information, don't hesitate to contact me at 647-637-6396 (Toronto, Canada) or robertvr@gmail.com

Thank You,

Robert Van Rhijn


Linkback - Westgate Unit for Sale - 5 min from DISNEYLAND
]]> 4/23/2008 6:45:57 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4386 4386
Linkback - Is chivalry dying?
]]> 4/23/2008 6:00:02 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4384 4384 Address: Urbanizaciln Oliva Nova Golf46780 Oliva
Phone: 34 962857600
Website:
Spain Airport: Valencia (60 miles) Alicante 100 Kms approx

My wife and I who are Just 70 travel to Alicante from our local airpot (Bournemouth) on a visit from 29th March to 12 April 2008, ( At this stage you must consider it to be early in the season) and in view of the distance, we prebooked a car, which is an essential for the area around the timeshare.

On arrival we travelled their motor way which has an excellent surface and when paying after exiting (the motor way is a toll road) was amazed to find our charge was only about 4 euros. At the apartment, left by the management was A litre and half of bottled water, 1 ltr milk, 1ltr pineapple drink 70cc of red wine, with a box of short bread type biscuits (which were very tasty).

To check in we had to enter the hotel up about 9 steps thro' the swing doors and then (after registerin)go through another set of swing doors and down a further 9 steps, suffering from Osteoporosis, I noted that there were ramps to the sides of the steps allowing wheel chair access. At the entrance to the "block" where we stayed there are 3 steep steps but alas no ramp, entry was by an electronic card thro' both the hall way door and our 1 bed apartment, which I can only describe as adequate, The divan/doble bed for an additional 2 personsons had cushions that had been the original, ie there was no cushioning about them, although the two chairs were comfortable, cramped into what I would describe as a rectangular room was the table and 4 chairs for dining (one chair had to be removed to allow the fridge door to be opened, moving the table would have blocked access to the bed/bathroom), the kitchenette comprised electric hob, washing machine, fridge/freezer and a microwave oven. To the rear a patio extended from the lounge across the bedroom doors (This was on the ground floor)

The double bed room was light and airy, whilst the bathroom contained the usual sanitary ware, the tiles dated the apartnent, Possibly 15 years old, On the stairs to the first floor could be seen placques dating back to 2000 declaring them to be RCI gold crown????? Being the nsey type I found that the block (containing 8 apartments were purchased by CLC around 3 years ago.

There are 2 studios, 4 1bed and 2 2bed apartments in total. being the type of person that I am, I was invitedinto a 2bed apartment which havin been in mine I would describe a sumptuos, whilst the first floor apartments each had there own private swimming pool on the roof!

At this stage I should point out there are other blocks contained within the complex but not belonging to CLC. The only dining facilities were at the hotel, the other onsite diner being closed as it was too early in the season, subsequently their prices are on the high side. In an effort to dine out we travelled to Oliva about 4kms away and were disappointed to find mostly bar type cafes serving such things as well done pizzas etc, although we did find one restaurant, which once again had hotel prices, our alternative was to travel towards Denia (12 to 18 kms distance) Where we found the greatest number of "eateries" from restaurants, Chinese and cafes, overall it was found that prices were on the high side with the exception of the Chinese restaurants (at around 13euros for two), overall I believe this would be an expensive venture for a family with a couple of young children.

Travelling around site seeing there are many excellent views, historic buildings plantations and so on, but there was only a zoo towards Denia and an on site "club" for children, together with an inviting swimming pool.

I should also explain that the hotel complex together with many other private villas and blocks of apartments are built around a golf-course designed by Severiano Ballisteros, however it can cost around 60 euros for a round of 18 holes. the only other entertainment I saw along the N332 were of ladies of horizontal disposition displaying their wares!!

In summing up I was given to understand the hotel was also trying to sell off the golf course?? This with a fine sandy beach (Only 50 yards from the rear entrance) would make a fine golfing holiday, apart from trying to find inexpensive restaurants. I would however pay tribute to our apartment manageress Jacqeline, together with our house keeper Mabel, who between them tried to make our stay as comfortable as possible, going the extra mile to suggest various places to visit.

***** Please note these are my own views and recommendations having stayed at the CLC apartments and have not been influenced by others****

Linkback - Oliva Beach Club (CLC)
]]> 4/23/2008 2:02:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4383 4383
After the earliest Easter since 1913, Devon's attractions were looking forward to the new school holidays with the likelihood of better weather and potential for greater visitor numbers.

The optimism has proved well-founded as attractions across the county have reported a huge boost to visitor numbers. With Cornwall keeping to the traditional Easter holidays and Devon moving to the new dates, the extended holiday season has been good for business.

Danny Reynolds, owner of Exmoor Zoo, said: "The staggered Easter holidays have been fantastic for us as we are a predominantly outdoor attraction. We have had three weeks of peak trading, when an early Easter would normally have meant a slow start to the season."

The Big Sheep have reported a 16 per cent increase in visitor numbers on last ear, making it the most successful start to the season ever for the North Devon attraction.

Other attractions such as Pecorama near Seaton have found that the school holidays have helped predominantly outdoor attractions compensate for the poor weather that such an early Easter can mean.

Mark Ridgers, tourism site manager for Pecorama, said: "With the better weather of the school holidays, we are now seven per cent up on income from last year. If ever there was a case for fixing the school holidays, this year has proved it."

Crealy's Angela Wright, Chair of DATA, said: "Many of our attractions were delighted that in Devon and much of the country, the school holidays were separated from Easter. It is better for everyone when the Easter holidays are later as families can spend more quality time together, and the tourism industry can enjoy a successful start to the season

http://www.exmouthjournal.co.uk/exmouthjournal/news/story.aspx?brand=EXJOnline&category=news&tBrand=devon24&tCategory=newsexj&itemid=DEED22%20Apr%202008%2011%3A30%3A16%3A497


Linkback - Attractions booming with school holidays success
]]> 4/23/2008 7:05:24 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4382 4382
Atlantic Palace features approximately 197 studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom timeshare units, of which Bluegreen purchased approximately 1,200 intervals (weeks). Bluegreen will manage the Interval Owner Association at the resort which has approximately 9,000 owners. Atlantic Palace is located beachfront on the Atlantic City Boardwalk and features an outdoor pool, hot tub, game room, exercise room, steam room and sauna.

Bluegreen plans to renovate approximately 16,000 square feet of the resort in order to establish a sales preview center.

Bluegreen Vacation Club sales in Atlantic City are expected to begin in the second quarter of 2008 contingent upon meeting all applicable registration requirements.

'This new property expands our vacation destination portfolio and establishes Bluegreen's sales and marketing presence in a location that is within easy driving distance of a third of the population of the United States, ' noted John M. Maloney, Jr., president and chief executive officer of Bluegreen. 'This vacation ownership resort is situated in the heart of the casino district and bordered by Atlantic City's world renowned beach and boardwalk. Shopping, gambling, top-name entertainment, and world-class golf and fishing are just a few of the reasons that more than 37 million people visit Atlantic City each year.'

Bluegreen expects to contribute to the local economy through increased tourism and employment. Forty-two personnel previously employed in guest services at the resort are expected to become Bluegreen employees, and the company expects to hire sales and marketing professionals for its new sales preview center. Bluegreen will also be looking to develop marketing alliances with area vendors to provide additional incentives to its guests, including admission tickets to local attractions, and restaurant and merchandise certificates

http://www.ad-hoc-news.de/Aktie/12717669/News/16451612/AES.html


Linkback - Bluegreen Corp Enters Atlantic City
]]> 4/23/2008 7:03:53 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4381 4381
Since January 2004, immigration services have taken a photo and fingerprints from each foreigner entering the United States to identify those using a false name and to stop terrorists, drug traffickers or illegal immigrants.

More than 90 million prints have already been collected, but under a proposed law announced by the minister of homeland security Tuesday, the system would be expanded to every foreigner leaving the country by sea or air.

The US-VISIT program, which is open to consultation for the next two months, would enable authorities to establish who has overstayed their visa, although there are no plans as yet to extend it to people leaving the country overland.

Planned for introduction in January 2009, the proposal anticipates that airlines and maritime companies collect the biometric prints themselves and transmit them to the ministry within 24 hours of their passengers' departure.

The government says the move, which was recommended by the commission into the September 11, 2001, attacks, is a congressional requirement if the US visa waiver programme is to be expanded to new countries as planned from June 2009.

"We've built an effective entry system, and combined with the proposed exit system, we'll have made a quantum leap in America's border security," said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff in a statement.

But airlines are not showing the same enthusiasm for the initiative that, according to the Washington Post, which cited a ministry official, could cost them between 2.3 and 3.5 billion dollars over ten years.

"It makes no sense to have the government outsource this type of law enforcement and customs function to the private sector," Steve Lott, a spokesman for the International Air Transport Association (IATA), told AFP.

Aside from the cost, he said collecting such data could be a major disruption for airlines and "add even more confusion to the process for foreign travelers" who are already facing extra security measures at US airports.

If the prints needed to be collected at check-in, then passengers would no longer be able to check-in online. If they were taken at the boarding gates, the IATA estimates it could take between 45 and 60 seconds per passenger, potentially causing delays.

But the CEO of the Travel Industry Association (TIA), Roger Dow, called for a "fair and rational dialogue" between the government and airlines, saying a stalemate on the issue was "not acceptable."

"We just live in a kind of world where that has to be done," he told AFP, adding that expanding the visa waiver program -- which will increase the countries whose residents can visit the United States without a visa -- was expected to bring an extra two million travelers to the country.

http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5gjIlkLbSILyjsDidGEHFBc7iLYZw


Linkback - US wants airlines to collect biometrics as tourist
]]> 4/23/2008 7:00:28 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4380 4380
Linkback - Investment Property Solutions
]]> 4/22/2008 9:45:34 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4379 4379
Anyone had any dealings with Starting point marketing?
They phoned me to tell me that they have a buyer for my timeshare, any offered me £3000.
But first I'd have to give them £850.
It has been up for sale for over a year at half that price.
Funny their website has only been up a couple of months, they don't appear to have an address.
I wonder could this be a scam?

Linkback - Starting Point Marketing
]]> 4/22/2008 7:44:00 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4378 4378
I had a look at their new website http://www.tatoc.co.uk/ this morning and when I saw their logo at the top, I had a good chuckle.

"TATOC - Operated by Timeshare owners for Timeshare owners"

What has Timesharetalk's slogan been since we began -

Timesharetalk - run by timeshare owners, for timeshare owners"

Plagiarism ? Don't worry Harry, I won't be coming after you [:D]





Linkback - TATOC Re-brands
]]> 4/22/2008 7:52:36 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4377 4377
The Homeland Security Department's proposed rules aim to assist government agents in tracking down visitors, including suspected terrorists, who stay in the USA after they are required to leave. The rules will also apply to those leaving from seaports.

Officials in the airline industry say the government — not the airlines — should pay for the new program.

The cost "is above and beyond our biggest nightmare," says Douglas Lavin of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). "This is literally the most expensive security program in the history of aviation."

After the 9/11 attacks, Congress required that Homeland Security fingerprint foreign visitors when they enter and leave the country.

Robert Mocny, who runs the US-VISIT fingerprint program, says it is key to keeping the country secure.

Airlines and others will have 60 days to comment before a final requirement is issued. Nothing will change for airline and cruise ship passengers between now and June 2009, Mocny says.

According to the proposal, airlines could decide where to take the prints — such as at checkout lines or at boarding gates. More than 80 airlines at 73 airports would have to put systems in place. "Can the airlines do this?" Mocny asks. "Certainly they can."

The prints will have to be transmitted to Homeland Security within 24 hours, he says, so that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents can begin to track down visitors who apparently didn't leave.

Airlines say they can't afford to buy the equipment and train their employees to do the government's work, especially at a time when they're suffering from record oil prices. Taking fingerprints "is a law enforcement or immigration function," IATA's Steve Lott says.

The Travel Industry Association supports fingerprinting but says airlines can't pay. "A stalemate between government and airlines … is not an acceptable outcome," TIA's Roger Dow says.

http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2008-04-21-fingerprints_N.htm


Linkback - Fingerprinting plan could be costly to airlines
]]> 4/22/2008 6:44:30 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4376 4376
Dubai Festival City raises bar on Arabian hospitality as UAE plans to set guidelines for growing sector.

In a defining moment for the high growth hospitality sector in the UAE, Omar Al Futtaim, CEO of Al-Futtaim Group and J.W. Marriott Jr., Chairman and CEO of Marriott International, Inc., announced a Joint Venture agreement today to launch Marriott Vacation Club, Dubai Festival City, the first Marriott Vacation Club resort in the Middle East - and the largest outside North America.

This is a landmark agreement to be signed in the UAE by heads of globally respected, family-led institutions, with combined experience of more than 160 years. It is also the first significant equity investment in a hospitality development in Dubai by a U.S.-based global hospitality brand and the only equity based Joint Venture entered into by Al-Futtaim with a hospitality group at Dubai Festival City.

Dubai Festival City LLC, flagship of Al-Futtaim Group Real Estate (AFGRE) and key division of Al-Futtaim Group, and Marriott Vacation Club International (MVCI), a division of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR), which develops and operates Marriott's vacation ownership resorts world-wide, are the Joint Venture parties holding equal stakes in this new venture.

Mr. Al-Futtaim said: "This partnership is the realization of a vision and ideals backed by long-term performance, and Dubai Festival City is a natural choice for this timeshare resort which matches our established brand values.

"We believe Marriott Vacation Club will singularly raise the bar and change the landscape of the hospitality sector in Dubai. This belief stems from the proven global track record demonstrated both by Al-Futtaim Group and Marriott International for providing sophisticated, trustworthy services and products."

The proposed 320 two-bedroom and three-bedroom unit resort will be located in Al-Futtaim Group Real Estate-developed Dubai Festival City's elegantly chic, bustling waterfront urban community, already recognised as a market leader which captures the ground breaking 21st century spirit of Dubai.

The timeshare resort will be constructed in four phases along the Dubai Creek and will be designed, built, and operated in a manner consistent with the world-class architectural standards and service levels within Dubai Festival City. Marriott Vacation Club, Dubai Festival City will fully comply with UAE legislations for timeshare properties which are currently being put in place by the Government of Dubai.

Mr. Marriott said: "The Middle East traditions and culture have always generated interest among people all over the world and, at Marriott, we are delighted to be able to provide a window to this culture through Marriott Vacation Club, Dubai Festival City. By collaborating with the widely respected Al-Futtaim Group, we are confident this resort will deliver the standards of excellence in value and hospitality for which Marriott is recognised."

"Our experience from operating timeshare resorts worldwide shows good legislation fosters a healthy and robust business environment that benefits both developers and customers long-term. Sound regulation and professionalism in operating timeshare resorts and their programmes are paramount in this high-growth sector. The Government of Dubai is planning to introduce balanced legislation in line with global standards and we applaud and support its efforts."

Owners of timeshare weeks will be eligible to exchange their week at other Marriott Vacation Club resorts around the world. Timeshare is the concept of purchasing and using a resort unit and its associated amenities for recurring periods of time.

Each villa is typically sold in intervals of one week up to 51 times a year with one week held for maintenance. The value proposition is derived from the opportunity for Owners to purchase one or more weeks and enjoy all the amenities of a larger vacation unit.

Dubai Festival City's hospitality portfolio will comprise over 3,500 rooms and suites and has the largest hospitality cluster connected to a regional shopping centre in the UAE. In addition to timeshare, there will be a total of eight world renowned hotel brands along the Creek and throughout the city and two boutique hotels conveniently located within the residential communities.

Timeshare visitors to Dubai Festival City will be able to enjoy its many facilities and amenities which include Festival Centre, a 200,000 m2 (2.1 million sqft) shopping and entertainment centre with leading international and regional brands, a choice of over 100 restaurants, cafes and bistros, the luxury Festival Marina and 18m (60 ft) wide cornice which will stretch along 3 kilometres (2 miles) of Dubai Creek and a 18-hole championship golf course.


Notes and contacts
About Al Futtaim Group Real Estate

Al-Futtaim Group Real Estate (AFGRE), a key division of Al-Futtaim group based in Dubai, is responsible for the development and operations of the Group's real estate businesses across the MENA region. AFGRE is responsible for the conception, development, procurement and construction of a number of mega projects as well as the leasing and operation of these projects after completion.

The two current flagship mixed use city developments under the Festival City brand include Dubai Festival City and Cairo Festival City. Al-Futtaim group has an impeccable reputation as a provider of value and quality with more than 80 years of experience operating over 40 diverse businesses in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe.

About Dubai Festival City

Dubai Festival City is a 3.3 million m2 (35.5 million sqft) premier waterfront mixed-use urban community. It is a visionary, self-contained metropolitan community that has been designed to capture the ground-breaking 21st century spirit of Dubai, set upon 526 hectares (1,300 acres) of prime waterfront land extending more than 3 kms (2 miles) of the historic Dubai Creek.

Dubai Festival City offers a rich and vibrant living experience that encompasses the finest and easily accessible shopping, dining, entertainment, homes, schools, hotels, offices and leisure in one place.

About Marriott Vacation Club International

Marriott Vacation Club International, the interval ownership division of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR), is the recognized worldwide leader in vacation ownership with a programme highly regarded for its quality and unique flexibility. In 1984, Marriott became the first branded hospitality company by nearly a decade to enter the timeshare industry.

MVC continues to expand with a diverse portfolio of 47 resorts representing over 9,300 timeshare resort villas throughout the USA, Caribbean, Europe and Asia. Today, more than 350,000 vacation owners around the globe own their vacations "the Marriott way," offering options to exchange weeks with priority within the Marriott Vacation Club portfolio or within Interval International's global system of more than 2,200 resorts in over 75 countries, trade their weeks for Marriott Rewards points, or rent their weeks.

About Marriott International, Inc.

Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR), is a leading lodging company with about 3,000 lodging properties in the United States and 67 other countries and territories.

Marriott International operates and franchises hotels under the Marriott, JW Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton, Renaissance, Residence Inn, Courtyard, TownePlace Suites, Fairfield Inn, SpringHill Suites and Bulgari brand names; develops and operates vacation ownership resorts under the Marriott Vacation Club, Horizons by Marriott Vacation Club, The Ritz-Carlton Club and Grand Residences by Marriott brands; operates Marriott Executive Apartments; provides furnished corporate housing through its Marriott ExecuStay division; and operates conference centers.

The company is headquartered in Bethesda, Md., and had approximately 151,000 employees at 2007 year-end. It is ranked as the lodging industry's most admired company and one of the best companies to work for by FORTUNE®, and has been recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with the 2007 Sustained Excellence Award and Partner of the Year since 2004. In fiscal year 2007, Marriott International reported sales from continuing operations of US$13 billion.

http://www.arabianbusiness.com/index.php?option=com_pressreleases&view=detail&pr_id=16675&Itemid=77&ln=en

Linkback - Al-Futtaim and Marriott launch Dubai's timeshare
]]> 4/22/2008 6:42:28 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4375 4375
Thomas Cook’s CEO, M Fontenla-Novoa, dismissed any speculations about hiking its rates for the coming summer holidays. However, he did admit that a strong euro would affect the destination choices of tourists due to rise in cost of car hires, meals, etc. Nearly 40% of company’s profits and 60% of its revenue come from holidays to European destinations.

Both are likely to fall in 2009.Mr Fontenla-Novoa added that countries such as Spain could be worst hit with rising Euro as more holiday makers may prefer Turkey, US and other dollar currency destinations like Mexico, Cuba and Dominican Republic. However, a strong Euro will not affect the current year’s projections of the company.

The company has reduced its short-haul holidays to European destinations by 19% from last year. He said that in spite of reduced consumer spending, most people still consider holidays to be a necessity and not a luxury. The company’s performance during the winter has been good, where the company reduced capacity by 5% but UK selling prices were up 1% on bookings. In bookings for summer holidays in UK, the results have been even better. With 10% cut in capacity and prices up by 2%, the bookings have been down by just 3%.The company’s best performance has been in Northern Europe division, where it had more bookings, more capacity and higher prices. A stable market, hardly any budget airlines to compete with and strong management were sited as the reasons for this strong performance.

http://news.carrentals.co.uk/thomas-cook-cuts-down-short-haul-holidays-3421921.html

Linkback - Thomas Cook to cut back on short haul hols
]]> 4/22/2008 6:40:16 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4374 4374 Not sure if this is the correct thread, but just wanted to drop a line to say hi and introduce myself. I found this great site while browsing the net for info on timeshares and given the great wealth of info on it, I could not resist signing up.

Travelling for me is an absolute basic necessity and a way of life. Naturally, I am in the luxury travel business.

Hopefully I can make some good friends in here.

That is it for now.

Cheers,

Globe Trotter13.



Linkback - Hello!!!
]]> 4/22/2008 5:34:38 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4373 4373
I am new to the site. Absolutely love it, can't get enough of it. But...

Everywhere I read about people being conned. I read how much money they have lost. Sometimes it's not clear what they were promised, and what ultimately they didn't get. I am picking up a not just a scam, but a network where one scam leads to another. I am naive, and it may be that a lot of guys on this site are of an ilk, some even like myself who, whilst not actually having lost money, are nonetheless concerned for their family or friends who have.

What I have picked up so far:

Holiday clubs promising five star accommodation to get their hands on the dosh then ask for extra cash to go to one/two star accommodation from an inconvenient airport at an inconvenient time on an inconvenient date

'Free' holidays when after the 'presentation' (don't think members of this site need clarification on this one) you find as above, but you are also having to pay out good money for something you don't want or can't use.

O.K. these are obvious. But it the less blatant scams that are really bugging me. For instance, and I think I have worked this one out correctly, getting time-share owners to pay further monies to give up their allocated weeks in exchange for additional weeks, but........by swapping from time-share to holiday club, they give up their voting rights. This means the 'holiday club' moves in when they have the lion's share of the votes and can do what they want, from amending the Constitution to putting up the maintenance charge which ultimately goes directly into someone's pocket. This would have the effect of reducing a five star apartment to one star in a very short space of time indeed. So, once the time-share allocation is virtually worth nothing, and the original owners don't think the maintenance charge pro rata to what they are getting is worth it, do they just 'surrender their rights rather than pay the exorbitant maintenance charge, which leave the holiday club with possession. Don't know! Would be terribly interested to have some answers on this one.

Then there is the circumstance that applies to my partner and I. For the sake of our friends, we agreed to go on a time-share walk so they could get some cash back for 'introducing' us. Willingly we gave our e-mail and phone number, and we knew what we were in for. No way would we part with our hard earned cash (well, pension actually). We hope our friends get their introductory fee, but meanwhile, now we are home, are awaiting an avalanche of phone calls and e-mails promising us goodness knows what in exchange for buying either a time-share or into some holiday scheme or other.

You know what, we are going to take up these calls or offers, purely to waste their time, because, whilst they think they are scamming us, which they won't, someone else may not end up on the the merry-go-round. Watch this space.

Meantime Boss, and Moderators, ever thought of listing the top ten time-share/holiday club scams?

Regards

Brindsey







Linkback - Top 10 Scams
]]> 4/21/2008 9:50:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4372 4372
Linkback - Timeshare Sales
]]> 4/21/2008 8:22:43 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4371 4371


The Osborne Club apartments are situated in private grounds overlooking Meadfoot Beach, Torquay, Devon.

Being a Gold Crown resort, the Osborne offers luxury, fine dining and excellent relaxation.

On-site ameneties include an indoor and an outdoor swimming pool, gym, Health Club and sauna, restaurant and brasserie, snooker, putting green, tennis courts and croquet lawn.

The beech is at the bottom of the private grounds, just across the road.

Torquay town centre is a short walk away.



Apartment 11 is on two floors, on the lower floor there are 3 bedrooms (1 double, 1 single and a twin), bathroom with toilet and a seperate WC. On the upper floor is the large lounge/diner and kitchen.

Apartment facilities include: TV, DVD, Freeview, dishwasher, oven, microwave and hob.

There is also a sofa bed in the lounge.

Beneath the apartment is the club office, where wireless broadband is available.



The maximum occupancy is 6.



Management fees are paid to date.



This is a fantastic holiday for the rest of your life, not just one year. It is also a great investment.



We are selling due to the arrival of a baby and will sadly miss our yearly trip down to The Osborne, a bit of luxury to look forward to.



lease will be sent to the Osborne Club for transferal to the buyer on reciept of payment. Any fees incurred for the transfer will be paid by us.



Club website: www.osborneclub.co.uk




Linkback - Torquay timeshare for sale
]]> 4/21/2008 6:43:54 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4370 4370 also could anybody tel myself of the approximate valve of what the points could be worth,cheers gaz.

Linkback - how would i sell CLC vacations points?
]]> 4/21/2008 1:45:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4369 4369
FlexPetz, an American company, has already signed up 100 'part-time owners' in London after the idea proved popular in the U.S.

But the scheme has been criticised by animal charities, who said that such 'time-share' schemes are cruel to the dogs involved.

FlexPetz currently has five dogs but is planning to buy more and expand to other British cities.

Most of the dogs are retired show animals, and they have all received full obedience training. They are also fitted with tracking collars in case they get lost.

Users pay an annual fee of £50, plus a monthly subscription, which gets them four days with a dog.

The fees also cover leads, bowls, beds and food which are supplied for every trip.

Marlena Cervantes, a behavioural therapist who launched the service, said: "Our members are responsible in that they realise full-time ownership is not an option. We screen all our members first to make sure they are suitable."

But the idea of sharing a dog between multiple 'owners' has been questioned. Ryan Neile of pet charity Blue Cross said: "When dogs are passed around, they may become confused, distressed and unpredictable."

Caroline Kisko of the Kennel Club added: "The concept of renting out dogs as a "timeshareî equivalent is detrimental to the dog."

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=560944&in_page_id=1770


Linkback - Rent-a-pet now available in UK
]]> 4/21/2008 7:08:22 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4368 4368
Net profit rose to 796 million yuan (114 million U.S. dollars), or 0.18 yuan per share, the airline said in a statement to the Shanghai Stock Exchange, citing domestic accounting standards.

The Guangzhou-based carrier said on the same day its 2007 profit surged 786 percent to 1.85 billion yuan (264 million U.S. dollars), or 0.42 yuan per share, from 209 million yuan, or 0.05 yuan per share, in 2006.

Revenue rose 18.2 percent to 55.9 billion yuan in 2007.

Chinese currency, the yuan, gained 6.9 percent against the U.S. dollar last year, reducing the value of China Southern's repatriated dollar-denominated debts.

The country's booming economy, which grew 11.9 percent last year, has also made business trips and holiday travels by air affordable to more residents.

Passenger numbers jumped 15.6 percent to 56.9 million last year, while cargo and mail volume climbed 6.5 percent to 872,000 tons. The airline filled 74.5 percent of the available seats, 2.8 percentage points higher than a year earlier.

Fuel and other charges have boosted China Southern's operation cost by 16.1 percent to 47.4 billion yuan in 2007. Fuel charge rose 13.1 percent to 18.3 billion yuan, accounting for 38.9 percent of the total cost.

Air China, the second-largest carrier by fleet, said in mid March net profit rose 30.37 percent to 3.88 billion yuan last year. China Eastern Airlines, the smallest of the nation's three major state-owned carriers, reported on April 15 net profit of 586million yuan for 2007, comparing with a loss of 2.99 billion yuan in 2006.

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-04/21/content_8017848.htm


Linkback - China Southern Airlines posts 6-fold rise in Q1 pr
]]> 4/21/2008 7:06:18 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4367 4367
Britons who exchange £100 for euros this year will get €119 at the current exchange rate, instead of €140 a year ago. The exchange rate drop means drinks, food and souvenirs bought abroad will cost more.

A bottle of Heineken in a café in France will cost around £3.37 this summer, compared to last year’s price of £2.86, an increase of 51p.

Likewise, in Spain a bottle of suncream that cost £8.61 this year will cost £14 this year, according to a Post Office survey of commodity prices abroad.

Since the euro was introduced nine years ago, sterlin's high point was in 2004 when average exchange rates meant £1 could buy €1.46 – now it’s €1.19.

The pound has slumped due to Britain’s economic downturn, and the euro strengthened because of ongoing investment and a decision by the European Central Bank to hold interest rates.

Families on a strict budget should consider exchanging a portion of their holiday money each month – say £400 over four months in order to hedge against further rate drops, according to Thomas Cook.

This would need to be with a commission-free foreign exchange, though, in order to avoid accumulating fees for each transaction.

The travel company also advises limiting the use of credit and debit cards abroad, which can attract foreign exchange fees of up to 2.75 per cent, plus a further fixed charge per purchase for some debit cards.

More radical advice from Thomas Cook is to consider holidaying outside Europe. Managing director of Thomas Cook Financial Service, Mark Nancarrow said: “For those who haven’t yet booked a holiday, then other destinations to consider are the US, Turkey, Egypt and Bulgaria, where your pound will go further.”

Helen Warburton, Post Office head of travel concurs: "For those willing to travel further afield, long haul destinations such as South Africa, Jamaica and Barbados, where the pound has strengthened in value, will be a good choice."

But she added that some destinations in Europe will remain cheaper than others. “Prices vary dramatically within the eurozone so people will be looking to visit countries where a lower cost of living will offer them more for their pound, such as Spain. Turkey and eastern European countries like Bulgaria are a good bet”, she said.

The most expensive countries for British holidaymakers are Cyprus, France and Portugal, according to the Post Office statistics.

http://travel.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/travel/news/article3730429.ece


Linkback - Summer holiday prices soar as pound plunges
]]> 4/21/2008 7:04:04 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4366 4366 Guess who it is:



More of the piccy to be revealed daily

The more is revealed, the less the reward.

Today it is worth 6 points!



Linkback - Guess who it is - 20 April
]]> 4/20/2008 10:53:59 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4365 4365
Linkback - Camera Scams
]]> 4/20/2008 8:30:48 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4364 4364
Linkback - T.V.Travel
]]> 4/20/2008 4:26:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4363 4363
One in 10 people who had travelled to Europe during the past 12 months said they did not bother to take out travel cover because they had a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), according to insurer InsureandGo.

But half of those surveyed did not realise the card, which replaced the old E111, only provides free or reduced-cost medical treatment for emergency health problems for people in European Economic Area countries and Switzerland.

About 13 per cent of people wrongly thought it would pay for them to be brought back to the UK if they had a serious accident and 8 per cent thought it would cover health tourism, such as travelling abroad for an operation.

A further 3 per cent of those questioned thought the card would provide them with compensation for lost or stolen baggage while the same proportion thought it covered lost money and documents and 2 per cent thought it would pay out compensation if their flight was cancelled or delayed.

Perry Wilson, of InsureandGo, said: "These are very worrying findings. It appears the EHIC card is giving millions of people a false sense of security and we are concerned that the Government is not making it sufficiently clear to travellers that they need travel insurance as well when they go abroad for business or pleasure.

"The uncomfortable truth is that this card should not have the word 'insurance' in its name - it does not offer people insurance in the sense they have come to expect."

ICM questioned 1,050 people during March.

http://www.travelmail.co.uk/article/article_page.html?article_id=39331


Linkback - Brits' confusion over Euro health card
]]> 4/20/2008 7:40:07 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4362 4362
Speaking in advance of the Global Travel and Tourism Summit that is taking place in Dubai on April 21, 2008, Steve Holmes, Chairman and CEO of Wyndham Worldwide, parent company of Group RCI, the world leader in timeshare exchange, explained just why the leisure real estate sector in the region stands to gain through the establishment of local timeshare regulations.

Holmes said, 'We are extremely pleased that this new timeshare law is now in place as we know that this is an essential step to establishing the timeshare industry in this new market. These protections will serve the interests of both developers and consumers alike while fostering a healthy growth environment. With this law in place, the vacation ownership industry should make a significant economic contribution to the market'.

Group RCI was a major contributor as part of the industry group working with the Dubai Lands Department and Real Estate Regulatory Authority, (RERA), in the creation of the newly announced timeshare laws.

As interest in timeshare escalates, it is expected that Middle Eastern residents will spend an estimated $1.2bn a year on shared ownership properties by 2020, with top markets including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran, Egypt and the UAE.

Developers have been quick to respond to the potential of value-added timeshare offers. Most recently Group RCI formed an affiliation with Al Ghaith Holdings to operate a timeshare exchange program at the Bavaria Executive Suites resort.

This development will have over 2000 units available in two towers on either side of Dubai's Sheikh Zayed Road.

Another example is the exclusive Ivory Grand development owned by Al Sawadi Real Estate, located close to Mall of the Emirates.

Steve Holmes is the vice chair of the World Travel and Tourism Council and will be a part of the panel on 'Travel and Tourism - It's Good and Getting Better' taking place on day one of the Global Travel and Tourism Summit in Dubai on April 21. His comments will outline his views on the economic stability of the travel and tourism industry and in particular, the Wyndham Worldwide family of companies.

'Travel and tourism continues to be a stable and growing industry around the globe. We are one of the world's largest employers and engines of economic growth. We have seen that when it comes to taking time off, people will adjust their travel plans to fit their budgets, but rarely cancel their vacations altogether.

At Wyndham Worldwide we have hotels, timeshare resorts and vacation rentals and exchange, with great product, price and geographic diversity.

Historically, our portfolio has benefited from people tightening their wallets as so much of our product is in the mid-price and economy segment.

While we would like to see the U.S. economy rebound, our company is well poised to succeed, even in this economic environment,' added Holmes.

'The United States has been losing market share to other countries for that lucrative international visitor, but I hope to see narrow the gap this summer as we are on sale given the low value of the dollar against other currencies'.

http://www.ameinfo.com/153796.html


Linkback - New Timeshare Law Good For Mid East Growth
]]> 4/20/2008 7:37:47 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4361 4361
One in 50 bags went missing and one in 2,000 passengers lost a bag permanently, according to SITA, an information technology company which tracks passenger baggage worldwide for the air transport industry.

The study found that airlines had failed to invest adequately in a more robust baggage tagging system which would make it easier to locate missing bags.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags, which are slightly more expensive than standard barcode tags but much more reliable, have been available for years but have yet to be rolled out across the industry.

SITA said the overall cost to carriers of mishandled baggage in 2007 was $3.8 billion, or an average of $90 per lost or delayed bag.

Francesco Violante, SITA’s chief executive, said: “It is important that we continue to move towards a comprehensive, fully-integrated global baggage management system that can direct, track and trace passenger baggage throughout the entire journey from check-in to final delivery at the destination.

“RFID could save the industry as much $700 million if it was fully implemented across the industry.”

The study said the main causes of lost bags were congestion due to growing passenger numbers, tight aircraft turnaround times and increased security.

The study follows the breakdown of the baggage-handling system that marred the opening of the showcase new Terminal 5 at London’s Heathrow airport at the end of March.

Huge volumes of luggage piled up, causing hundreds of flight cancellations, leaving British Aiways with a £16million compensation bill.

The SITA report said that most bags that went astray were delivered to their owners within 48 hours.

The statistics came from SITA’s automated tracing system for missing bags, which is used by some 400 airlines and ground-handling companies.

The report said the main cause of baggage delay, accounting for 49 percent in 2007, was mishandling during transfer at airports where passengers where changing flights.

But this had declined since 2005, when it was 61 percent.

Failure to load bags on to aircraft accounted for 16 percent, and ticketing errors and security issues accounted for 14 percent, while the rest were due to mishandling by destination airports, space restrictions and tagging errors.

Under the Montreal Convention, airlines’ liability is capped at £800 per lost bag. The Convention stays a bag should be considered lost after 21 days.

British Airways loses more bags than any other big airline in Europe, according to the Association of European Airlines (AEA).

Nine passengers on a typical BA jumbo jet find that their bags are missing when they arrive at their destination. BA’s performance worsened last year, with 26.5 bags lost per 1,000 passengers, compared with 23 in 2006.

The airline was 50 per cent more likely to lose a bag than the average European airline, which mislaid 16.6 bags per 1,000 passengers. Only Air Portugal, which is less than a fifth of the size of BA, lost a higher proportion of bags.

Some operators, including Virgin Atlantic, refuse to supply figures to the AEA.

The Air Transport Users Council has called on the European Commission to force all airlines to submit information for league tables on performance in key areas, including missing baggage.

Meanwhile, a major insurance company backed down yesterday after being criticised for saying it would not compensate passengers with new insurance policies if they lost bags at Terminal 5.

Direct Line said: “Following assurances from British Airways and BAA that service levels at Heathrow’s Terminal 5 have returned to an acceptable standard, Direct Line travel insurance policies will be valid should customers suffer lost and delayed baggage or flight disruptions at the airport.

“Additionally, as a gesture of goodwill, Direct Line will be taking a sympathetic view of any claims made against flight disruptions or lost and delayed baggage at the Terminal since its opening - irrespective of when the policy was bought.”

http://travel.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/travel/news/article3771680.ece


Linkback - Airlines lose 42m bags a year
]]> 4/20/2008 7:33:20 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4360 4360
I vote for my favourite moderator, for his humility his impeccable character and being a all round good guy.

Linkback - mederator of the year
]]> 4/19/2008 10:40:12 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4359 4359

Linkback - Marina Leisure
]]> 4/19/2008 5:18:43 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4358 4358
I am not a time-share owner, but innocently took part in a scratch card scam some years ago in Benidorm. We didn't buy, but came out with two tickets for the Benidorm Palace and a bottle of wine so our three gruelling hours weren't entirely wasted.

Since then my partner and I have watched people being suckered in to the scratch card scam, even to the point of seeing people chased after in the street by the promoters.

We now have another experience, and would appreciate any comments on the street credibility of the Company concerned. This is mainly because some of our friends have recently bought into time-share with them, and they are in their 80's. Also, like most, I am up front and honest and hate to see people taken in.

The Company is Crown Resorts Marketing Limited, with an address in the Isle of Man, and they have plush offices at Club Marbella, Calahonda, Spain, operating under the name 'Diversified'.

I want to make it clear, this is no slur on Club Marbella, which is excellent and thoroughly recommended for a holiday.

We went for a week, because it was cheap and our friends would receive payment for introducing us, knowing we would have to do a 'time share walk'. This is the way their (very) slick operation takes place:

You walk in to the offices to the smell of freshly ground coffee. There are five or six salespersons with couples/clients' at different tables.

We were subjected to a five-hour big sell, approximately three in the morning and two in the afternoon. Other people had longer as they had a (free) lunch with their salesperson. Ours' couldn't make the lunch, but he had already worked very hard on the bonding/trust me I am your best friend. Guess the plan is to make your head spin so much you sign just to get out,intending to cancel as soon as you get home as it was stressed many times there was a 15-day cooling off period.

They wanted money up front without us having sight of the Agreement. I said no way would we proceed further without reading what we were letting ourselves in for.

Our man gave in and got us a copy, together with a glossy brochure, which he said must be brought back directly after lunch as he wasn't supposed to hand them out! We felt it was a 'red-herring' when he pointed out three things we should look at in the brochure. He didn't draw our attention to the rear of the Agreement, which said it all. Basically I have interpreted some of the small print as saying, yes, you can cancel, but we make it very difficult and you could forfeit some (maybe all - I don't know) of the money you have paid..

Particularly I am suspect of the phrase "Further information is contained in the separate Notice of Right to cancel" What separate Notice, we were never given sight of this?

I do have a full copy of the Agreement (taken down in shorthand!) and feel the jargon misleading.

In the afternoon, 'the boss' went to work on us. We explained our misgivings, and he said he would write a letter covering the disputed/grey areas. The Agreement specifically says,

" 9. It is accepted by both the Applicant and the Authorised Club Representatives that no statement of any nature made prior to the Application Date will form a term or condition of this contract unless set out in writing in this contract……………..….”

The day before we were due to leave, our salesperson knocked on our door to tell us The Boss had worked on yet another deal which served our requirements better. We were to go and see him. We honoured our commitment and went to the Diversified office, only to find Boss engaged with clients. We didn’t hang around!

Diversified/Crown Resorts Marketing Limited could at a push be genuine, but, if they are, why aren’t they up front with the Agreement giving people time to go away and look at this at their leisure. What is in the separate Notice of Right to Cancel?

Finally, is there anyone out there who could interpret some of the other jargon in the Agreement?

If a con is taking place, it's taking place big time, with captive audiences that are lured by the cheap holiday.

Thanks

Brindsey


Linkback - Crown Resorts Marketing Isle of Man
]]> 4/19/2008 8:53:07 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4357 4357
Sales of all-inclusive holidays – which cater for all the food, drink, snacks and entertainment needs of holidaymakers – at tour operator Jet2holidays.com have shown a spike in sales of 63 per cent year-on-year. In the last week alone, sales have increased by 37 per cent.

Since the start of 2007 the pound-euro exchange rate has fallen from a high on 22 January 2007 when one euro cost 65.4p, to a low on 11 April 2008 when it cost 80.1p – effectively meaning the cost of living in European resorts has risen by 22.5%*.

A recent survey, carried out by Halifax Travel Insurance, shows that one-third of all holidays booked by Brits are all-inclusive, suggesting that consumers are taking the safer resort-based holiday option.

Mandy Round, General Manager, at Jet2holidays.com, said: “With the value of the pound devaluing so much against the euro, savvy customers are opting for all-inclusive deals.

“Just like fixing a mortgage deal, taking an all-inclusive break means you can pretty much fix your holiday spending in the sun as everything in resort – from ice creams, food, drink and snacks – is taken care of.

“We are not of the opinion that the credit crunch and mortgage rate worries are going to stop consumers taking holidays abroad – they are just being more sensible about their choices.”

http://www.traveldailynews.com/pages/show_page/25473


Linkback - Falling pound sparks boom in all-inclusive holiday
]]> 4/19/2008 8:32:25 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4356 4356
The two leaders, who met at Berlusconi's Sardinian villa just days after Berlusconi won elections securing his return to office, said they want to broaden the cooperation between Italy's Eni energy company and Russia's gas monopoly Gazprom.

Putin said he hopes Gazprom will have a role in Libya with Eni, without providing details. Putin made the overnight stopover in Sardinia on his way back from Libya, where he met with Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi.

Eni's chief executive Paolo Scaroni on Thursday said that Eni's Elephant oil field in Libya is among the assets being offered as part of a 2006 accord signed by Eni and Gazprom cementing their ties. Such a deal would require Gadhafi's approval.

Under the deal, Eni was allowed to enter Russia's to invest in the oil and gas sector in Russia while Gazprom was free to sell gas directly to Italy. The companies also agreed to swap assets.

Putin also said Aeroflot was ready to reopen talks with Alitalia, although exactly what the Russian carriers role could be remained unclear. Aeroflot was among the bidders who walked away from a failed auction last year, and its general director was quoted by Russian television on Thursday as saying it was not interested.

"I talked to Aeroflot's board chairman today," Putin told reporters. "He is ready to resume contacts with the Italian partner."

Berlusconi's intentions regarding Alitalia aren't entirely clear.

During his election campaign he pledged to rally Italian investors to save the failing airline from bankruptcy, in opposition to a takeover by Air France-KLM. But in the last couple of days he has softened his resistance to an Air France-KLM takeover, saying it was important that Alitalia be equal with the other carriers and that it have Italian management — a position he repeated on Friday.

He also said Alitalia's future remained "very open" and that contacts with Air France-KLM about a potential sale were continuing. On Thursday he said he would discuss a tie-up with French President Nicolas Sarkozy after taking office.

Air France walked away from exclusive talks over union demands earlier this month, and the process has been up in the air during the election period. Berlusconi's government is expected to take office in early May.

Alitalia, meanwhile, is teetering on the brink of bankruptcy. It has been losing €1 million (US$1.6 million) a day and is expected to run out of cash by June.

Berlusconi dodged a question about whether the Italian government was planning a bridge loan — a possibility that circulated in the Italian media after a meeting Thursday between a key Berlusconi aide and an official in Premier Romano Prodi's outgoing government working on the Alitalia deal.

"The problem is so big that everything else doesn't matter, (including) bridge loans. ... What matters is solving the problem and keeping Alitalia as a flagship carrier to bring foreign tourists to Italy," Berlusconi said.

The European Commission said Friday that whatever the future holds for Alitalia — a linkup with Russia' Aeroflot or the Air France-KLM giant — the Italian air carrier cannot count on subsidies from the Italian government until at least 2011.

Alitalia won an infusion of state aid in 2001, and under EU competition rules that means it is excluded from another no-strings-attached cash injection for at least 10 years.

Alitalia received €400 million in 2005 as a "bridging loan" which the company has reimbursed, said EU spokesman Michele Cercone.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/04/18/business/EU-FIN-Italy-Russia.php


Linkback - Berlusconi and Putin economic ties - airlines
]]> 4/19/2008 8:31:11 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4355 4355
But before you get your chequebook out, let’s look at the catches – and there are one or two. Take Rocksure, which is offering investors a share in its Bravo fund. This will have six properties in places including Brazil and Morocco for £189,000. That doesn’t sound too bad for a share in six holiday homes. The problem is the extras. You also have to pay an annual service charge of around £1,800, which isn’t guaranteed to stay the same each year. So that’s a £189,000 initial investment, a further £1,800 a year, plus the costs of flights, all for four weeks’ holiday a year. Suddenly it’s not looking so cheap after all.

The other problem is that the 39 other families invested in the properties are also entitled to four weeks a year in the houses. That means that you can’t just decide at the last minute to go to Colorado and competition for the school holidays is likely to be fierce.

So what about the investment angle? “It’s boring having shares in Cadbury, where the dividend goes straight to your bank account... with us you’ve got capital appreciation and a visible asset you can have fun with,” says David Rogers, one of Rocksure’s founders. But in these uncertain times a regular dividend is pretty appealing. With Rocksure you don’t get a share of any rental yields on the property, as these are used to cover maintenance costs. You also have to wait until the properties are sold to get a return on your investment, unless you can find someone to buy you out.

The charges on any profits are steep too – Rocksure will take 17.5% of any profits over and above 20%. This is assuming you have any profits to take – Rocksure will sell the properties in seven years time when the fund closes, regardless of the state of the market. The property locations are hardly up and coming (the Algarve, Morocco and Croatia have all seen large gains in recent years). So if the property crash goes global, you could lose out.

All in all, Rocksure and its rivals offer a “neat way of effectively pre-paying your holiday accommodation”, says Eric Gummers from Howard Kennedy Solicitors in The Sunday Times. But as an investment there are far better things to do with your money. Even if you are determined to buy property, you would be better off taking the £189,000 and buying your own home in an up-andcoming destination – Northern Brazil is one option. That gives you the freedom to buy and sell at your discretion, holiday there when you like and also get an income from renting it out.

http://www.moneyweek.com/file/45193/a-new-breed-of-property-investmentto-avoid.html


Linkback - A new breed of property investment…to avoid
]]> 4/19/2008 8:26:43 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4354 4354
Linkback - Mother in law jokes
]]> 4/18/2008 5:33:52 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4353 4353
Linkback - Canaltime Website
]]> 4/18/2008 4:37:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4352 4352
I've just received the 2008/09 directory and had a quick look at the resorts I own. Kilconquhar is listed as a Silver Crown - but is correctly Gold Crown on the website - and Forest Hills has no rating but is a Silver Crown on the website (still down from a GC last year!).

So out of the 3 resorts I checked there are 2 errors - not a good record. Has anyone else noted further mistakes?



Linkback - RCI Resort Directory
]]> 4/18/2008 2:15:05 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4351 4351 Fees paid for this year with 14,625 points to used this year, then the normal 8000 points for 2009
£1500 ono

Linkback - 8000 points for sale
]]> 4/18/2008 11:08:36 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4350 4350
Every winter we would go down to Mazatlan, Mexico, where we owned a timeshare. We loved the warm weather(usually 25° to 29°C during the day in the winter months)and the long sandy beaches and the very Mexican feel of the place. We started off visiting for two weeks a year, then it became three. At first, we stuck to the tourist areas. But Mazatlan is a good-sized city of about 600,000 people and after a while we discovered what's known as El Centro — the city centre — and we really liked it. The houses are old there — some go back to the late-1800s — and they're very affordable. As well, there is lots of local culture, great shopping, an open-air marketplace and plenty of restaurants and cafes.

Four years ago, we decided to buy our own little place there. It was the year before Anne retired, and we bought a small two-bedroom house that was completely restored. It cost us only $45,000, which we put on our line of credit. Our home is in a traditional Mexican style, painted a salmon color, with pretty ironwork out front, cool ceramic floors and a shady little patio with a nice garden, about a 10-minute walk from the beach. Everything was in there, including furniture, appliances, linens, towels, dishes, cutlery and even a TV, because the owner's original intention had been to rent it out.

When Anne retired, we sold our house outside of Calgary, which had 10.5 acres of land. With the proceeds from the sale, we paid off the house in Mexico and bought a 14 x 44-ft mobile home in a beautiful RV park south of Calgary. Now we spend November to April in Mexico and the summer months in Canada.

Overall, I'd say living expenses in Mexico are between a third and half of what they are in Canada. The two of us can live very well on about $2,000 a month. When we worked out our monthly expenses, we were paying about $135 a month for shelter, including utilities, property taxes, Internet and telephone.

Some costs seem absurdly low to Canadian eyes. Our property tax, for example, is just 381 pesos per year($40), although we pay an additional bank trust fee of $422 annually because our house is within 50 km of the ocean. Even with air conditioning in the hot months, our electricity costs have averaged $16 a month. Of course, we never have any heating costs. If it gets chilly at night, you just throw on an extra blanket. Fire insurance is not necessary except for contents because all the houses are built of concrete.

Food is cheap. You might pay $2 for a 1.9-litre bottle of milk, 43 cents for a kilo of tomatoes and $2.50 for enough large fresh shrimp for a meal. Services cost even less. You can visit the dentist for $20 to $30, hire a cleaning lady for the day for $10, have your hair cut for $4, and get your laundry done for about $4.50 for three kilos.

We don't need a car — the bus system is great and the local bus costs 4 pesos(41 cents Cdn.), or you can pay 8 pesos for the air-conditioned bus, which is mostly for tourists. That means we can afford to dine out often. On Valentine's Day we went all out and had dinner at a Mexican-Greek restaurant. We had a large margarita, a bottle of wine, a delicious meal, a dessert flambé and cappuccino for about $50 including tip. Normally, we don't spend that much. There are many places where the two of us can get a simple meal for $10.

Another advantage to being in Mexico, as opposed to, say Thailand or Costa Rica, or some of the other places where Canadians can live cheaply during retirement, is that it's fairly close to home. The flight to Calgary costs us about $700 so if we need to go back to see the kids, it's not a problem.

I would advise those considering retiring here to be realistic about what you're used to. We eventually decided that the original layout of our little home was too small, given the amount of time we are spending down here, so we are building another floor onto the house with a large bedroom, an extra bathroom, a large balcony, and a back deck. It'll cost us about $20,000, which is still very cheap.

You have to budget a little extra for health care. We have an FM-3, which is a special visa allowing us to live here for one year. It also allows us to buy into the IMSS, the state-sponsored medical plan, at a cost of about $580 a year for the two of us because we're over 65. We have that plan just in case we get run over or have a heart attack, which would be costly without insurance. For the most part, if we go to our family doctor — who is well-educated and speaks perfect English — we pay directly. It's only about $20 a visit, and if you need an X-ray or ultrasound, you'll pay another $20, but you'll get the results immediately and the care is top-notch.

We've been very happy with our decision to move to Mexico for half the year. Right now the skies are blue and its 29°C, yet at night it cools down and you sleep well. People ask us what we do down here. They'll say, "You can't sit on the beach for six months. Aren't you bored?" The short answer is, no. We can go to the Angela Peralta Theatre, which is beautifully restored, and see a flamenco performance for less than $14. Movies are released at the same time as in Canada, but in English with Spanish subtitles, and cost $3 a ticket. And we have an endless round of barbecues, fundraisers and get-togethers, mostly with other Canadians and Americans, but also with locals.

It's all so inexpensive, we can afford to live very well. In contrast, when we go back to Canada we can't afford to do anything. Except for visiting with family and friends, we become recluses. We spend our time on the deck, barbecuing and maybe popping over to a neighbor's for happy hour. Sure, we can exist in Canada on the money we have coming in. But in Mexico we can really live it up!

(Herman Heynen lives in Mazatlan, Mexico.)

Going global

Thinking of retiring abroad? Before uprooting yourself, do your homework, advises Rod Burylo, director of Canadians Retiring Abroad. Burylo, who holds seminars across Canada on retiring to foreign destinations, offers these tips:

Try it out first

Visiting a country on vacation isn't the same as retiring there. Seek out the kind of expat community where you're likely to live and rent a place for a few months before committing to buy property. If you don't like it, your loss is minimal.

Be realistic about finances

While it may be cheaper to live in certain countries, you have to factor in the cost of airfare to get there, additional health-care costs and communications costs.

Consider taxation issues

Some countries are more tax friendly than others for those willing to give up Canadian residency. Cam McIntosh, a chartered accountant in Calgary, says Mexico, Costa Rica and Belize are good bets for low taxes combined with a low cost of living. In Mexico, for example, you'll pay tax at 15% on income streams like RRIFs and pensions coming from Canada, but you won't pay additional Mexican tax.

Scouting reports

These websites can help you learn more about retiring abroad.

Voyage.gc.ca. This Government of Canada site offers information on visa requirements, laws and regulations. Also on offer: publications about living in Mexico and the U.S., and another called Retirement Abroad: Seeing the Sunsets. Available online or by calling 1-800-267-8376(in Canada)or(613)944-4000(outside of Canada).

About.com/cs/snowbirds. This site offers links to help you deal with the tax and lifestyle issues raised by leaving Canada for a little while or forever.

Snowbirds.org. The Canadian Snowbird Association, a not-for-profit advocacy group, offers its members group rates on travel medical insurance.

PlanningStrategiesGroup.com. The Norfolk Group offers the Canada- Mexico Chamber Business Association International Group Healthcare Plan, which covers Canadians until age 100, anywhere in the world they choose to retire. Rates run from $136 to $662 a month.

MexPatriate.net. Info on the most popular expat communities in Mexico, as well as legal and tax info.

Chapala.com. Offers cost of living data, street maps and FAQs for this hot-spot for Canadian retirees.

http://www.canadianbusiness.com/my_money/investing/article.jsp?content=20060801_105126_5260


Linkback - How we retired in luxury — on $2,000 a month
]]> 4/18/2008 7:00:54 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4349 4349
Holidays on the Continent are soaring in price after the pound tumbled nearly 19 per cent against the euro in the past year.

The US is one destination which now offers better value because the dollar exchange rate is more favourable.

But sun seekers would be even better off picking other long-haul destinations this summer, according to the Post Office holiday costs barometer.

Holidaymakers will get excellent value by travelling to long-haul destinations
Helen Warburton, Post Office head of travel services

Thailand comes out cheapest of the 16 countries surveyed, with 10 common holiday purchases costing £28.58.

The same items bought in Spain – the cheapest place in the euro zone – come to £59.24 while in France they work out at £68.97.

A three-course evening meal for two plus wine in a local restaurant in Thailand costs on average £17.64 but eating out in Italy – the most expensive European destination – would set a couple back £42.05. Buying the 10 surveyed items in Italy would mean shelling out £73.40.

Buying a postcard and stamp for the UK ranges from 31p in Egypt to £1.35 from a tourist shop in France.

Sun cream from a supermarket costs £2.65 in Thailand compared to £11.77 in Spain.

Australia worked out the most expensive place of all 16 countries surveyed by the Post Office.

The same 10 purchases there came to £88.97, more than three times the cost in Thailand.

The basket of purchases includes a cup of coffee from a cafe, a bottle of supermarket mineral water, an English tabloid newspaper, insect repellent and a three-course evening meal for two.

The findings follow evidence that families are already putting off holiday plans because of the credit crunch.

Trips abroad are the first item to be shelved when finances become tighter, according to researchers Mintel.

The pound now buys 1.17 euros compared to 1.39 in April 2007. Meanwhile, the exchange rate against the US dollar has held more or less steady, with the pound buying 1.87 dollars.

But you can still bag a bargain break elsewhere if you shop around. Helen Warburton, Post Office head of travel services, said: “Holidaymakers will get excellent value by travelling to long-haul destinations.

“Sterling is up over 8 per cent against the rand, making South Africa a good choice, and booming sales of Egyptian and Thai currency indicate that holidaymakers are already opting for trips where their pound will stretch further.”

The Post Office research shows that South Africa is the second cheapest holiday destination after Thailand, with the 10 purchases there costing £40.03.

The Post Office figures do not take account of accommodation and flight costs. The pound is at its lowest level against the euro since it was introduced in 1999.

By Louise Barnett

http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/41677/Holidays-that-don-t-Costa-lot


Linkback - HOLIDAYS THAT DON’T COSTA LOT
]]> 4/18/2008 6:54:57 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4348 4348
Despite reassurances from the airline that things will get better soon, travelers would be wise to avoid Terminal 5 over the next few weeks. Fortunately, there are options for travel with BA and other airlines at Terminals 1, 2, 3 or 4. Ten percent of BA's flights from the airport are not moving to Terminal 5; some short-haul flights are at Terminal 1, and flights to Singapore, Australia and Bangkok continue to fly from Terminal 4. (You can find a full list of flights by clicking on "Which Terminal?" at BA.com; some BA flights operate from Gatwick North Terminal.) Thanks to the "open skies" agreement, several new carriers now operate from Heathrow Terminals 3 and 4 to U.S. destinations. You can view flight schedules for all airlines at Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted airports, at the airport operators' Web site, BAA.com.

Heathrow can be avoided altogether, especially for travel between London and Europe. Gatwick, 28 miles, or 45 kilometers, to the south of London, offers a wide range of flights to Europe, North America, Middle East and Asia. Stansted, 34 miles northeast, is mainly a budget airline hub; but New York JFK is served by American Airlines and the all-business-class carrier Eos with daily flights. Luton, 32 miles north, serves more than 30 destinations in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, plus New York Newark, served daily by Silverjet's all-business flights from its private terminal. London City Airport, six miles from Canary Wharf, the exemplary hub for short flights, promises all-business-class flights to New York with BA in 2009.

When traveling between North America, Middle East, Asia, and Europe, it's easy to avoid London by transiting at a hub such as Amsterdam, Frankfurt or Paris. (The opening of a new Air France-KLM Terminal 2E at Paris Charles-de-Gaulle Airport on March 30 should make departures and transfers simpler.)

The Official Airline Guide (www.oagflights.com) is the most authoritative source of global flight information, showing flight schedules, updated daily, for 1,000 airlines serving 3,000 airports around the world; well worth the annual subscription of €139, or about $208.

Travelers are now hit with a double whammy: restrictions on the size and weight of carry-on baggage forces them to check more bags. For airlines this is an opportunity to impose charges for excess baggage, and many airlines as well are doing away with free baggage allowances.

Traveling light can be heavy going these days. The official carry-on allowance is one standard-sized bag - with a maximum size of 22x17.5x9.85 inches, or 56x45x25 centimeters, including wheels, pockets and handles) - plus one laptop-sized bag, handbag, or briefcase. You may possibly be allowed a third bag in premium cabins. Most airlines impose a maximum bag weight of 51 pounds, or 23 kilograms.

However light you travel, there is no sure-fire way to avoid a hassle with carry-ons. One solution is to stuff everything into a suitcase with detachable briefcase/laptop bag and wheels. But sometimes, taking a lot of stuff is unavoidable. Rather than risk the hassle and nightmare of mishandled or lost bags, consider shipping your bags with a specialized courier service.

BA recommends First Luggage (www.firstluggage.com) which picks up and delivers baggage by FedEx all over the world. The cost for one-way shipping of a suitcase of 66 pounds from Milan to Brussels is about £89, or about $177. Excess Baggage (www.excessbaggage.com) ships bags in 300 countries, charging from $4 to $10 per kilogram for most destinations. Excess Baggage has a network of agents that includes Contour USA (www.contour-usa.com) for shipments from the United States. It is also worth checking out the courier services of www.Skycapinternational.com and www.Virtualbellhop.com, both based in the United States.

Luggage Express (www.usxpluggageexpress.com) has courier service across the United States and is extending to cities in South and Central America, the Caribbean and Europe. Prices start at $85 for a 35- to 40-pound suitcase between U.S. cities to $325, with duties and tax, from New York to London.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/04/17/travel/trfreq18.php


Linkback - How to avoid Heathrow T5
]]> 4/18/2008 6:51:59 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4347 4347
Linkback - Where is Casey Owens
]]> 4/18/2008 3:01:32 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4346 4346 My golden one is trust no one until you verify what they said.

Linkback - rules for attending a presentaion what are they
]]> 4/17/2008 9:30:12 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4345 4345 Diamond Resorts International® at ARDA
April 8th, 2008
The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) annual convention is taking place this week in Las Vegas. It’s our industry’s largest gathering of vacation ownership professionals.

Many Diamond Resorts International® (DRI) team members have been creating and living the brand over the past 11 months, but for some of our industry partners, colleagues – and competitors – this may be the first time they experience and connect with the DRI brand.

Although we are already known as an innovator and industry leader, the ARDA annual convention offers us a fantastic opportunity to showcase our most valued asset, our people. The prestigious ARDA awards are dominated by DRI team member nominations – congratulations to them all.

This year we will have an exhibit booth presence on the show floor staffed by team members representing many facets within DRI and, for the first time in company history, we will be a signature sponsor of the event along with other hospitality giants such as Interval International®, Group RCI, American Express® and Textron Financial Corporation.

Our attending team members, numbering over a hundred, will be dressed and empowered to represent the DRI brand visually, aurally and in personality.

Our brand introduction to the vacation ownership industry is an amazing opportunity to reinforce our different and unique way of doing business; with integrity, honestly, commitment to our customers and alignment with our brand tenets of simplicity, choice and comfort.

As a company we have a responsibility to lead our industry through an era of change and opportunity; the ARDA convention is an integral part of our leadership positioning and future success.
This is a Diamond Resorts International® chance to shine and it’s certain we will be brilliant!



Linkback - Latest initiative from Diamond
]]> 4/17/2008 6:30:01 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4344 4344
3 different web sites have put it in 3 different locations, namely, in Marbella, in Estepona and just off the N-340 between Estepona and Marbella. I've google earthed it to try and find it but with no joy. [?] [?]

Going to Dona Lola next week [8D] with a 3 year old (she will be 3 when we are there) and thought this might be better than going to Tivoli with her for a birthday day out.

Any thoughts or help will be appreciated [:D]

Scott

Linkback - Prado World, Estepona or Marbella ???
]]> 4/17/2008 12:55:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4343 4343
Linkback - DGS Brokers
]]> 4/17/2008 11:43:12 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4342 4342
Just because you own a timeshare, doesn't mean that you have to keep going to the same place over and over again. In fact, one of the greatest benefits of owning a timeshare is that you can trade your vacation time for stays at other resorts throughout the world! 80% of timeshare purchasers buy with this intention! Whether you're a long-term planner or a last moment procrastinator, trading your timeshare for other comparable timeshares is a wonderful way to travel and see the world!

The concept of timeshare exchange is easily summed up as "like for like". Basically, the type of timeshare you own will determine the type of timeshare you'll receive. So, when you make your exchange request, keep in mind what type of a timeshare you own, as you're likely to get the same number of bedrooms, the same season and similar amenities as what your home resort offers. It all comes down to demand versus supply.


Join An Exchange Company

After you purchase your timeshare, you'll want to join or use a timeshare exchange company. These companies are usually affiliated with your timeshare resort and they'll help you exchange your timeshare for a similar resort. Resort Condominiums International (RCI) and Interval International (II) are two of the oldest and largest exchange companies in the world. Membership and Exchange fees with these companies are nominal and you'll receive complete timeshare catalogs, which contain pictures and descriptions of thousands of resorts throughout the world. You can even access their Internet sites to search their directory of resorts. Also note there a growing number of smaller independent exchange companies that are fast making it just as easy to fulfill on a trade. Trading Places, Donita's exchange and the San Francisco Exchange company are just a few.

Timeshare Exchange Companies:

What's Right for You?

What’s one of the greatest benefits of owning a timeshare? Trading your time for vacations at other resorts throughout the world! In fact, 80% of timeshare purchasers buy with this intention!

So, once you buy your timeshare, where do you start? You find a timeshare exchange company! These companies will help you exchange your timeshare, as well as provide many other vacation services. Some charge an upfront fee, others don’t.

To make your life easier, our friends at Timesharing Today put together a comparison chart of exchange companies.

Start exchanging: Find the right timeshare exchange company

Once you've joined an exchange company, the process is as easy as picking up the phone and asking one of their vacation consultants to walk you through the exchange process. This procedure is very user-friendly. Think of it as if you were going to your local bank, making deposits and withdrawals.

You deposit your timeshare into the exchange company's resort "bank". This bank is made up of timeshare properties from around the country and world that other exchange members have deposited. When you find a location and week that work for you, call your exchange company and request an exchange. Just like making a withdrawal. Remember, when you deposit your timeshare, you don't have to request an immediate exchange.

Likewise, you don't have to wait for your deposited timeshare to be taken before you're confirmed to go elsewhere. And, for added flexibility, you don't have to travel during the same fixed week that you deposited!

Priority for fulfilling your request is based upon the following:

The quality of your timeshare resort.
The demand for your timeshare resort.
The demand for the geographic area of your timeshare.
The demand for the week you own (high versus quiet season).
The size of your timeshare.
When you deposit your timeshare week.

Tips of the trade!

Deposit Early

Whether you need a specific time for a family gathering or don't even know where you want to go, the earlier you deposit the more opportunities you'll have for a match.

Request Early

As soon as you decide where you want to travel, let your exchange company know so that they can begin searching for your next vacation!

Be flexible!

Give 3 or 4 different resort and date choices. You'll have a better chance of fulfilling your request!

Determine How You Vacation?

Before you can exchange a timeshare, you have to own one. So when you purchase your timeshare from Holiday Group, think about where you want to vacation and how you plan your vacations. Are you limited to traveling only during peak seasons or can you travel during the off-season? Do you travel to mostly peak destinations, like the beach in summer, or do you stray from the beaten path? If you're more restricted, with family and work, and you can only travel during peak seasons, you'll want to purchase a prime property or season. If, however, you're more flexible and you can travel during the off-season, you might not even need a prime property or season.

Membership and Exchange Fees

Exchange companies make their money by charging membership fees, exchange fees and guest passes (when you want to give your week to friends or family). The fees are charged as follows.

Membership*: RCI - $89 II - $79
(*Based on one year, but you can pre-pay for multiple years and receive a discount!)

Domestic Exchange: RCI - $149 II - $121
International Exchange: RCI - $189 II - $149
Guest Pass: RCI - $49 II - $39

http://www.holidaygroup.com/timeshare_basics/exchange.php











Linkback - Timeshare Exchange Systems
]]> 4/17/2008 6:39:34 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4341 4341
IT may be paradoxical to describe a 500-acre site as being quietly nestled away in the West Wales countryside, but Bluestone is barely noticeable to the casual visitor until you are almost literally on top of it and overlooking the hundreds of timber lodges and picturesque village that could soon become the country’s leading attraction.

Now just weeks from completion having been 10 years in the making, the project’s backers say Bluestone is about to transform the flagging Pembrokeshire economy, to which it will bring 700 jobs, 350,000 visitors and £35m a year.

When it opens on June 30, the site will boast an indoor water park, a sports centre and luxurious spa, with work on a £25m snow dome getting under way in 2009.

At its heart will be a village in, broadly, an early 20th century style which could have been modelled on any number of small West Walian towns like Laugharne, Llandeilo or Narberth with its gentle pastel colours, country pubs and upmarket restaurants.

And spread across the whole site to the south of the Preseli mountains will be 335 timber lodges – only 182 of which will initially open – the cost of a stay in which will vary from between £150 and £2,600 a week.

But despite its vast scale, its founders claim it is based on firm principles of sustainability and of spreading the economic benefits far beyond its patch by encouraging visitors to explore the rest of Pembrokeshire– an Objective One area where GDP was estimated at having fallen by 17% between 1984 and 1994 – and Carmarthenshire.

“It is central to our ethos that we do not get people down here and expect them to stay in Bluestone,” said communications manager Richard Harris.

“Pembrokeshire is a beautiful place to live, but geographical peripherality has also meant the county economy has suffered in recent years.

“We’re going to draw people here in greater numbers than they have ever come before.
“But it is no good us promoting our climbing walls when just a few miles away you can climb a real coastal cliff.

“And how could we not encourage people to walk the coastal path or see Barafundle Beach?”

The idea of former Pembrokeshire dairy farmer William McNamara – who left neighbouring Oakwood theme park to back this venture along with Sir Edward Dashwood and developers Mansford – the site also has strong environmental credentials.

Many of its lodges – the interiors of which were designed by Haverfordwest designer Barrie Knight – feature solar panels, triple glazing and Scandinavian insulation techniques, while the Blue Lagoon is thought to be the only water park in the world powered by biomass energy created on site in an energy centre which boasts a £50,000 turf roof.

Two 26-ton boilers will heat water through the carbon-neutral burning of woodchip and miscanthus, or elephant grass, grown by a co-operative of local farmers.

“The aim is for the farmers and growers to keep control and with no middleman, all the money stays within the local community,” said Paul Ratcliffe, a farmer whose land neighbours the site, and who travelled to Finland and Austria to look at energy systems run on similar principles.

The traffic-free village boasts local butchers and bakers, and pubs and restaurants which strongly emphasise the importance of local produce.

While The Tafarn will serve Welsh ale, and restaurants The Granary and The Smithy will serve simple fare, Carreg Las will boast the finest food Wales has to offer – like Atlantic sea bass, Welsh black beef, organic Welsh lamb and Solva crab.

Food manager John Glasby claims it will be a showcase for seasonal local produce.
“We’re lucky to have a wealth of high quality food and drink locally in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Wales generally,” he said.

“There is no need to buy cheese from any further than 30 miles away and the area is strong on lamb, beef, poultry, Carmarthenshire ham, as well as chutneys, honey, chocolate and ice cream.”

On the village’s edge is a spa boasting a traditional brick sauna, marine sauna, salt steam room, herbal steam room, ice pod, dry salt room and no fewer than 15 treatment rooms.

Marrying the ultra modern to the ancient, the spa has been named The Well after the holy well at the neighbouring and now ruined Newton North Church, which found itself on a major pilgrim route after Pope Calixtus II declared in the 13th century that two pilgrimages to St Davids were worth one to Rome.

Bluestone pays the Church in Wales the token sum of one white rose on a midsummer evening for the lease of the ancient church and there are fledgling plans to restore it and hold weddings there.

“It is going to give Wales something that has never been done here before,” said Mr Harris.

At a glance – what Bluestone has to offer

The Blue Lagoon

In the shape of an upturned Cleddau coracle with a roof made of cedar shingles and a plastic similar to that used for the iconic domed roofs at Cornwall’s Eden Project, the water park’s main feature will be a wave pool capable of producing some of the largest indoor waves in the UK. It will also have three flumes, a rapids ride, a main pool, a lazy river ride and a bubbling hot tub

The Snow Dome

Work on this £25m attraction is not expected to start until at least 2009. The main ski run will be 200m long and 50m wide with a 75m training run next to it. It will be open 12 hours a day with tobogganing and snowboarding sessions at night

The Well

A luxurious spa featuring a traditional brick sauna, marine sauna, salt steam room, herbal steam room, ice pod, dry salt room and no fewer than 15 treatment rooms for treatments including reiki, aromatherapy, massage and reflexology

Landsker Sports Club

Features a large indoor sports hall, outdoor facilities including football and tennis, a state-of-the-art gym, pool and snooker tables, and fitness and dance suites

The Village

A traditional Welsh village featuring pubs, wine bars, shops and three restaurants boasting the finest in Welsh local produce

Local and sustainable

Bluestone has been developed on a grand scale but it has tried to remain largely loyal to Welsh designers, architects and suppliers as well as maintaining green credentials.
Among its suppliers are:

Wizo Trees, from Clarbeston Road, near Haverfordwest, who supplied more than 200,000 native trees, shrubs and bulbs; Vaughans in Haverfordwest, who supplied 400 TVs and 230 DVD players; BK Designs of Haverfordwest, who designed the lodges’ interiors; Powell Dobson Associates of Cardiff, who designed the Blue Lagoon and Pembrokeshire Bio-Energy, a co-operative of farmers which is growing the crops to power Bluestone’s biomass energy.

Measures taken to minimise its environmental impact include solar panelling in the lodges’ roofs, recycled newspapers as insulation, and the world’s only water park powered by biomass from crops grown in Pembrokeshire.

Countryside, hillside and waterside lodges in a choice of colours to match
When Bluestone opens in June, 182 timber lodges set around a traditional Welsh village will be ready for occupancy but when the site is complete, there will be 335 to stay in, along with 30 stone cottages within the village and 17 studio apartments.

Bordering woodland, nestled into the hillside, on open countryside or surrounding a freshwater lake, the lodges boast two to four bedrooms and range from the luxurious to the modest but comfortable.

Each of the four categories of lodge is named after some of Pembrokeshire’s islands with the 24 Skomer lodges being the flagship.

In these detached two-storey, three-bedroom, three-bathroom lodges, slate-floored kitchens fitted by Zenith Interiors of Milford Haven lead to the open plan dining and lounge area, with its overlooking balcony directly above.

Thick beams of European whitewood support the roofs, several of which sport solar panels which heat water.

Outside, the lodges – each of which has been strategically placed in the site’s best spots – have their own patio and furniture.

A Skomer privilege package, which includes a week-long stay in the lodge, your own electric buggy and £150 worth of spa treatment, costs £2,600.

The Caldey, Ramsey and Dinas lodges, as well as the cottages and studios, come in cheaper with a midweek Monday to Friday stay possible for around £150.

Their interiors were designed by Haverfordwest-based Barrie Knight.

“The colour palette has to work with the landscape and enhance the natural beauty of the area,” he said.

“The palette will work well whatever the time of year, with shades of green in the woodland lodges, blues for the lakeside lodges, and purples and browns for the area with the best mountain views.

“The environment hasn’t changed for thousands of years, so the basic colouration should date well while the design of the furniture is quite classical with a modern twist.”

http://icwales.icnetwork.co.uk/news/feature-news/2008/04/16/bluestone-offers-welsh-holidays-something-new-91466-20768528/

Linkback - Bluestone offers Welsh holidays something new
]]> 4/17/2008 6:34:46 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4340 4340
New statistics from the Civil Aviation Authority show that last year UK airports handled 241 million passengers - an increase of just 2.4 per cent on 2006, with growth in numbers at their lowest for a decade.

Since the 1970s, annual growth had been six pc a year.

Experts say there are several reasons why people are thinking twice about flying - with less money in their pockets to spend on holidays being the main one.

Better rail services are also having an impact on how people travel, with more people taking to the train for trips around Britain. Use of domestic flights fell by 1.9pc last year.

Despite the slow down, the air industry is still determined to press ahead with its expansion with more cheap flights and plans to expand airports, particularly Stansted and Heathrow.

Currently around 1,200 jet planes fly over Suffolk every day - causing growing frustration over noise and concern over pollution.

Government believes doubling air travel over the next 20 years will boost the economy, but that will simply mean more passenger planes flying over Suffolk.

Expert Dr Harry Bush said: “The CAA's analysis shows the impact on passenger air travel of recent slowing of consumer expenditure, but also indicates a significant impact from the recovery of rail travel and from the increasing internationalisation of the UK economy, with the consequent growth in air travel to visit family members or friends in other countries.

“Looking to the longer term, demographic changes and ownership of homes abroad are also likely to buttress air travel demand, although relatively small changes in frequency of leisure travel between mid and higher levels of income suggest demand growth is constrained to some extent by factors other than income, such as availability of leisure time.”

The CAA said during 2007, landings and take-offs of commercial aircraft at UK airports grew by 1.8pc to 2.5 million.

At the London airports - Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton and London City - the increase was 2.6pc, bolstered by increases of 16pc at London City and 6pc at Luton.

A CAA spokesman said: “More regional airports are developing a greater range of services and there are now nine airports handling more than five million passengers each a year, together accounting for nearly one third of all UK passengers, while a further nine airports each handle more than one million passengers annually.”

FASTFACTS: Who flies most …

Half of the UK population do not fly at all in any year - those who do take more than two return trips on average.

Higher income households take more flights, single people and childless couples fly more than families, and those who own property abroad fly often.

Households with total earnings over £115,000 per year take around 60 per cent more trips per year than those earning less than £40,000.

Regional airports have continued to grow at a faster rate than London airports, and in 2007 handled 42 per cent of passengers at UK airports.

http://www.eveningstar.co.uk/content/eveningstar/news/story.aspx?brand=ESTOnline&category=News&tBrand=ESTOnline&tCategory=News&itemid=IPED11%20Apr%202008%2015%3A23%3A28%3A237

Linkback - Numbers of people flying is slowing
]]> 4/17/2008 6:29:18 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4339 4339
Hi. I am emigrating to Australia in July 2009, and as such wish to sell my 7000 points.
Will accept a low offer, as I am tying up all our loose ends before we go.
So, make me an offer ! [:o)]

Linkback - 7000 points for sale!
]]> 4/16/2008 7:50:15 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4338 4338 visited my house in Birmingham that they could pick up the deeds and that the bond was to ensure that they would receive them. I told them that the only way I would supply a bond was if it were to be held by my solicitors and that they visited them to pick up any deeds. She put the phone down!!

Linkback - Real Escape - A Scam company?
]]> 4/16/2008 7:03:16 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4337 4337 I do indeed have a timeshare week I would like to sell ,and all but one of the companies to contact me have appeared in your Shark Alley !! The one missing is called " Ownner's Timeshare Club ". Has anyone out there had any dealings with them ?

Linkback - Owner's Timeshare Club
]]> 4/16/2008 3:58:51 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4336 4336
Linkback - barnsdale country club Rutland UK Week 43
]]> 4/16/2008 2:32:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4335 4335
Fun in the sun: But families have begun to cancel holidays as they battle with finances
Families are having to rediscover the values of thrift and make-do-and-mend as the credit crunch takes hold.

According to a report yesterday, almost half of us have scrapped spending plans because of the economic climate.

One family in five has delayed its annual holiday and a tenth of Britons have held back on buying a new car.

Sixteen per cent of householders have put off plans for home improvements such as loft conversions, according to retail analysts Mintel.

The period from 2002-2006 saw spending on long-haul foreign holidays rocket by 41 per cent, sales of champagne and wine rise by 26 per cent and big increases in fashion spending.

Now the survey of 2,000 adults has found that the spending spree is well and truly over as prices rise and debt levels soar.

Families are having to slash their outgoings and savings have also been hit, with 11 per cent saying they have nothing left over at the end of the month to put away.

Personal debt is running at £ 1.4trillion and there have been rising numbers of bankruptcies and home repossessions.

Income tax and National Insurance are taking a greater proportion of gross income, having risen from 14.6 per cent in 1997 to 17.8 per cent last year.

Mortgage costs have more than trebled in the last ten years, now accounting for a quarter of consumer spending, compared with 14 per cent in 1997.

Mintel's chief statistician Peter Ayton said: "While people are clearly aware of the rise in house prices, utility bills and the cost of food and petrol individually, many may not have thought about the combined impact these price hikes have had on their income.

"But this, along with the gradual increase in direct tax, has seriously dented spending power and it is now more obvious than ever that incomes don't stretch as far as they once did.

"We are likely to see even more people having to make sacrifices."

The analysts predict that 2008 will be tough for the British economy but they believe it will get back on track in 2009/10, helped by investment in the run-up to the Olympics and the approach of a General Election.

By REBECCA CAMBER

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=559942&in_page_id=1770


Linkback - Credit Crunch - Family Holidays Cancelled
]]> 4/16/2008 6:31:01 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4334 4334 Thursday. The following is a summary of key developments and analyst opinion related to the period.

OVERVIEW: In January, Marriott named the chain of boutique hotels it is launching with upscale hotelier Ian Schrager "Edition." Marriott and Schrager plan to open the first Edition hotels in about two years in nine cities, including Paris, Madrid, Miami, and Chicago. Two are planned for Los Angeles.

The Bethesda, Md.-based company, which operates under brand names that include Courtyard, Ritz-Carlton and Marriott, said in February that it signed a deal with Orbitz Worldwide Inc. that would make its rooms available on the online travel company's Web sites.

BY THE NUMBERS: Analysts surveyed by Thomson Financial predict a profit of 33 cents per share on revenue of $2.83 billion.

ANALYST TAKE: Deutsche Bank North America analyst Chris Woronka said in an April 10 client note that he anticipates Marriott's quarterly earnings results will be helped by international growth, buybacks and lower interest. He sees increased focus on timeshare operations and expects the lodging company to "confirm that leisure and weekend demand/pricing power is decelerating and booking windows for short-term transient and group business are narrow."

Woronka predicts a first-quarter profit of 35 cents per share.

Felicia Hendrix of Lehman Brothers estimated 3 percent growth in North American revenue per available room in the first quarter. Marriott previously predicted growth in a range of 2 percent to 4 percent, the analyst said in a client note. Revenue per available room, also know as revpar, is a key gauge of a hotel operator's performance.

Hendrix expects Marriott's quarterly timeshare revenue to plunge 84 percent to $9 million, which is within the range of $7 million to $12 million predicted by Marriott. The analyst said the forecast accounts for new project startup costs and difficult comparisons to results from a year ago when a large Hawaiian inventory became financially reportable.

Hendrix provided a first-quarter earnings estimate of 32 cents per share.

STOCK PERFORMANCE: Shares of Marriott International fluctuated during the quarter, but ended the period less than 1 percent higher.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/fn/5701265.html

Linkback - Earnings Preview: Marriott International
]]> 4/16/2008 6:27:32 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4333 4333
The TSA says the screener who reviews the images is in a booth, unable to see the travelers.

It's the first expansion of the program since the machines were first put to the test in Phoenix, Arizona.

The "whole body imaging" machines have sparked complaints from privacy advocates.

But the Transportation Security Administration says that it has taken steps to protect individuals' privacy and that 90 percent of the travelers in Phoenix preferred the imaging machine to a pat-down.

The millimeter wave machines will be rolled out at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York and Los Angeles International Airport in California later this week, TSA Administrator Kip Hawley told Congress on Tuesday.

The TSA will be purchasing at least 30 more machines for use at other U.S. airports this year, he added.

The TSA will use two different methods at JFK and LAX as they study the most effective way to use the machines.

TSA.gov: How the technology works

At JFK, passengers sent to secondary screening will be given the option of a pat-down or a trip through the body imager. To protect the traveler's privacy, the screener who reviews the image is in a booth, unable to see the traveler, according to the TSA. The traveler's face is pixilated and the image is not stored, the TSA said.

At LAX, the millimeter wave machine will be located just beyond the checkpoint magnetometers.

Travelers will continuously and randomly be selected to go through the machine. While signs will inform them of the pat-down option, screeners will not announce that choice. But passengers electing not to go through the millimeter wave machine will be given the option of the pat-down.

A TSA spokesman said the agency is still exploring backscatter, another imaging technology in use at Phoenix's Sky Harbor International Airport.

Millimeter wave machines are already in use at airports in Britain, Spain, Japan, Australia, Mexico, Thailand and the Netherlands, as well as at some court and corrections facilities in Virginia, Colorado, Pennsylvania, California and Illinois.

Sky Harbor began using the machines last October.

Hawley also announced Tuesday the TSA is purchasing another 580 multi-view X-ray machines that are used to screen passengers' carry-on bags, bringing the total to 830 machines. The machines give screeners a clearer, more detailed view. Some 600 machines will be deployed by year's end, he said.

The technology is a "powerful platform" that can be adjusted to include software capable of detecting liquid explosives, he said



http://www.cnn.com/2008/TRAVEL/04/15/airport.security/


Linkback - More airports to use 'whole body imaging' machines
]]> 4/16/2008 6:22:59 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4332 4332 The following has been move from this thread:

http://www.timesharetalk.co.uk/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=9586

Please keep topics on thread!

Doggy50k


And as this was written a whole squadron of farmyard animals went flying past the window.

Linkback - DRI selling it clean - What about CLC
]]> 4/15/2008 10:44:53 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4385 4385
Linkback - reclaim and tms
]]> 4/15/2008 9:48:44 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4331 4331

thanks


Chris


Linkback - premier invitations
]]> 4/15/2008 9:41:16 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4330 4330
Clearly you and/or your management team read these forums.

You are concerned about the legitimate postings of a disaffected member of CLC on here. So much so that you have offered an out of court settlement as long as he complied with your requests in relation to his postings.

These postings have been removed on a temporary basis, pending you settling with him.

Upon further consideration we do not see this sort of action as a satisfactory way forward.

You cannot deal with disaffected members by trying to expunge the past (for which you are wholly responsible) and conveniently delete it.

Why not look at the actions of Steven Cloobeck and Diamond Resorts then consider them in relation to cleaning up the industry?

When they took over S.unterra (a company you are familiar with) they swept the board clean. The wrong-doings of the past (which you will be familiar with) have been rectified and the company is pushing forward. (Yes - Timesharetalk has removed postings from public view in relation to this, but these were in relation to actions which were not the responsibility of Diamond).

One of the phrases which dominates the sales forces dealings with potential Diamond members is "Tell the truth".

Steven Cloobeck has joined and posts on Timesharetalk, as do a number of his management team. They have opened themselves up to the membership.

I would like to extend you an invitation:

Follow this example.

Open yourselves up - let the members (disgruntled or otherwise) speak to you directly.

Sort your act out - help to tidy up the timeshare business - make a change. If you do nothing wrong then the membership will be happy rather than disaffected.

If you have not settled with CharleyFarley within 2 weeks I will put his postings back on view regardless.



Linkback - An Invitation to Richard Harrington & Roy Peires
]]> 4/15/2008 8:10:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4329 4329 Location: Benaulim Beach, Goa
Exchange Company: RCI
Date of Visit: April 2007
Ages of party: 50s

Do not confuse this with a the nearby Royal Palms resort which is also run by Royal Goan Beach Club - the two are totally different.

We stayed in a two bedroomed unit. This was extremely spacious and was on two floors. The downstairs floor was the lounge area with seating area and TV with lots of English speaking programmes.
There was an air conditioning unit, which cut out intermittently.
There was a kitchen area with kettle/toaster etc, but to be honest we never used this kitchen.
There was also a shower room/toilet on this floor.
On the second floor there were two bedrooms (one twin and one with king size bed), both rooms had ceiling fans.
There was also a very large shower room and toilet with drying space for clothes.
Everything was very clean and tidy, but this is India and therefore you cannot expect european or american quality.

The resort itself is very compact with a small swim up bar and small pool in a grassed area. There are sunbeds around the pool area but because of the layout of the resort it does not allow a lot of direct sunshine and becomes very hot and humid because of the enclosed space.
There is a restaurant on site which is very good (but by Goan standards rather more pricey than elsewhere - nevertheless very convenient).
Hairdresser/beauty room/massage
Small gym
There is an entertainment programme and activities like BBQs and bingo.
THE STAFF ARE INCREDIBLY HELPFUL AND FRIENDLY.

The local beach is about a 10 minute walk away - don't be put off by this, it is not unpleasant. If you take the road you will pass little gift shops and some local houses, you can even cut through the Leela Palace, but you can get a taxi right outside the resort if you don't feel up to this walk. If you turn right down a dirt path just outside the hotel you will get to a different part of the beach at the other side of the Leela.

At the end of the road, near the beach there are a couple of eating places and on the beach itself you will find two beach shacks - both of these provide excellent value for money and typical Goan food. We had breakfast/lunch here most days.

There are lots of female beach hawkers - but if you say you will buy something on the day you leave they will leave you alone until then. Take any shampoo/soap etc that you do not use during your holiday as this is really appreciated.

Within walking distance of the resort in the opposite direction you will find several other shops and eating establishments. There are also other villages nearby, within walking distance, but as the taxis are so convenient, take a longer trip to Margao for instance to see the local market - you won't have seen anything like it. Go out of the resort for maximum value and variety - we ate like kings for a week - the king prawns are unbelievable!


Linkback - Royal Goan Beach Club Benaulim
]]> 4/15/2008 2:20:20 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4328 4328 Country: Cyprus

Resort Name: Malama Beach Club/Malama Holiday Village
Location: Paralimni, Cyprus
Exchange Company: RCI
Contact Information: www.MalamaHolidayVillage.com
Date of Visit: April 2008
Ages of party: 50s

The resort and the units are clean and well maintained, however if you are a Gold Crown owner I think you will be disappointed with the quality of the units.

We stayed in a one-bedroomed unit.
There are two bedroomed units available, but all are similar and the one we stayed in is typical.
The unit comprised one large bedroom with king size bed (which was as hard as rock), plenty of hanging space (but take extra hangers), dressing table with hairdryer, beside tables. Patio door led to patio area
Small kitchennete with two solid rings and oven, microwave, fridge, kettle and toaster. Little in the way of cooking equipment. Seating for 4 at a breakfast bar.
Through lounge with two settees/sofa beds which were very uncomfortable for lounging on, TV with no satellite chanels so English programmes limited to Animal Planet, National Geographic and BBC world. Patio door leading to patio area with table and four chairs.
Air conditioning provided warm air which is useful on cool spring days - we had several quite cold days.
The resort comprises only 2 and 3 story blocks, but the layout means that even though all units have a patio (ground floors) or balconies these actually get very little sun.
Bed linen was changed twice in a week and bins were emptied everyday.
Because we had a ground floor unit we had to keep the curtains closed due to passers by and this made the unit rather dark.

The resort has very limited timeshare activity and its clients come mainly from package holidays (eg Olympic and First Choice).
There is a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner - buffet style and an a la carte menu.
There is a small shop selling just about everything.
Kids Club
A very run down gym and rather dark and grim looking indoor pool.
The outdoor pool is very large and there is a poolside snackbar/bar with lots of seating.
There is a large sunbed area and a games area.
The animation team provides family type games and entertainment all day and in the evenings too.

In low season there were sufficient sunbeds and personal space, although in peak season I think this will be very different. The resort beach is tiny and accommodates about 10 sunbeds.

We purchased the meal vouchers for breakfast which was rather limited, but due to the poor cooking facilities in the units I'm glad we did this. However, in high season I think it will be a real "bun fight". The lunch and dinner buffets had limited choice, although the food was always hot and regularly replenished.

Outside the resort the building programme is ongoing with houses going up on every spare inch of available ground, although there was no noise from this.

We found that Cyprus is now getting rather expensive for eating and drinking, but there are several decent restaurants in a short walking distance. Try the Wooden Crest Inn for lunch and the Karas Tavern for dinner. Both places serve lovely homemade chips (not the usual frozen type). We were also recommended the Faliros, but did not get there, although friends who did said it was good. We were not impressed by the Shangai Dragon (Chinese restaurant on the main road), although our takeaway was delivered to us and would have fed four people.
Take a bus trip to Ayia Napa for Eu 1.35 from a nearby bus stop. A bus also goes into Paralimni from the opposite stop.
There are miles of coastal paths in both directions from the resort which pass several small beaches
There is a water sports "shack" on the resort beach.








Linkback - Malama Beach Club
]]> 4/15/2008 1:38:21 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4327 4327
Linkback - payback from Platinum Properties (remember them)
]]> 4/15/2008 11:35:33 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4326 4326
Hoseasons chief executive Richard Carrick said more people are choosing to holiday in the UK, with the operator's sales up by 30% year on year.

Demand has proved to be particularly strong in the lates market, with more than 40% of all Hoseasons' bookings being made less then six weeks before departure.

Carrick added: “Our recent booking figures support how attractive the UK holiday market has become to native holidaymakers, both in terms of value for money and diversity of accommodation.

“Standards have been significantly enhanced and the variety of holidays on offer is vast.

“What’s more, the trend in short breaks reflects a growing desire among holidaymakers to take UK holidays as a green, hassle-free alternative to flying overseas. We expect to see an even larger increase in sales over the coming months as people look to find great value, quality accommodation at home.”

by Edward Robertson

http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/04/14/27263/hoseasons-reports-domestic-boom-thanks-to-strong-euro.html


Linkback - Hoseasons reports boom due to strong euro
]]> 4/15/2008 6:18:08 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4325 4325
The combined airline will keep Delta’s name, Atlanta headquarters and its chief executive officer, Richard Anderson, the companies said. The combined carrier would drop American Airlines into second place by traffic.

The carrier will have 800 aircraft and 75,000 employees.

Delta, the third-biggest U.S. airline by traffic, is betting that acquiring No. 5 Northwest will help it weather a 74 percent surge in jet fuel over 12 months. The move is likely to spur rivals, including United Airlines, to hasten talks on tie-ups to counter the new Delta’s wider network and cost savings.

A combined Delta-Northwest will control about 25 percent of the U.S. air-travel market, estimated Ray Neidl, an analyst at Calyon Securities in New York. Delta and Northwest and their regional partners carried 176 million people last year.

“This deal makes more sense than just about any you could imagine,” Henry Harteveldt, a Forrester Research Inc. analyst in San Francisco, said before the announcement. “The overlap is minimal, and they’ll gain international routes they both need.”

Delta’s contributions to the new carrier include trans-Atlantic routes to Europe and a network in Latin America, while Northwest has Pacific routes including access to the restricted Narita Airport in Tokyo. Adding overseas destinations was part of each airline’s strategy to return to profit after bankruptcy.

The joining of Atlanta-based Delta and Eagan, Minn.-based Northwest will result in combined annual revenue of $31.7 billion.

Delta and Northwest have no overlap in service out of Kansas City. Delta flies to Atlanta and Salt Lake City from Kansas City International Airport, while Northwest has departures to Minneapolis, Detroit and Memphis, Tenn. Both carriers also operate regional service from KCI.

Together, the airlines carried about 11 percent of all passengers flying out of KCI in February, according to the latest statistics compiled by the Kansas City Aviation Department. That would make the combined carrier the second-busiest carrier at KCI, slightly ahead of Midwest Airlines, in terms of the number of passengers flown out of Kansas City. Southwest Airlines is the busiest carrier.

Northwest also has a 47 percent ownership of Milwaukee-based Midwest with no management role in the carrier. Industry observers have said previously that they did not expect any change to come of Midwest’s ownership as a result of a Delta-Northwest merger.

Wall Street and some airline executives have pushed for consolidation for years, arguing that too many seats are chasing too few passengers. The resulting discounting has made it hard for airlines to cover their expenses.

The eight largest U.S. carriers may lose a combined $1.4 billion in the first quarter, Merrill Lynch & Co. analyst Michael Linenberg wrote Monday in a note to clients.

Continental Airlines Inc., No. 4 in the U.S. by traffic, has held talks with United and has met with American, sources have said.

Under the terms of the transaction, Northwest shareholders will receive 1.25 Delta shares for each Northwest share they own. The exchange ratio represents a premium to Northwest shareholders of 16.8 percent based on Monday’s closing stock prices.

Delta Chairman Daniel Carp will become chairman of the new board of directors, and Northwest Chairman Roy Bostock will become vice chairman. Delta President and Chief Financial Officer Ed Bastian will retain those titles.

The new board will be made up of 13 members, seven of whom will come from Delta’s board, including Anderson, and five of whom will come from Northwest’s board, including Bostock and Doug Steenland, the current Northwest CEO. One director will come from the Air Line Pilots Association, the union that represents pilots from both carriers.

Delta also said that it had agreed with its pilot leadership to extend its existing collective bargaining agreement through the end of 2012.

The agreement does not cover Northwest pilots.

The chairman of the Northwest chapter of the Air Line Pilots Association, Dave Stevens, said in a statement Sunday that any deal not in the best interest of his members would meet “vigorous opposition.” Beyond enlisting members of Congress and the Justice Department to oppose the deal, pilots have little opportunity to prevent a merger.

But they can go a long way toward keeping a completed merger from being successful. At US Airways, the product of a 2005 merger with America West Airlines, pilots are still litigating over a combined seniority list and executives have been forced to continue operating the two carriers with separate squads of pilots. That makes the airline less efficient.

Pilots can also engage in legal work slowdowns, sometimes known as flying to the contract, which can cause late and canceled flights to swell and costs to rise.

Years of mounting losses forced Delta and Northwest to file for bankruptcy protection on Sept. 14, 2005. Both emerged from bankruptcy last spring.

DELTA Daily flights worldwide: 4,200
2007 passengers: 109 million

Daily flights from KCI: 6

Employees: 55,044

NORTHWEST Daily flights worldwide: 2,500

2007 passengers: 66 million

Daily flights from KCI: 9

Employees: 32,000

http://www.kansascity.com/105/story/575930-p2.html


Linkback - Delta, Northwest agree on plan to merge
]]> 4/15/2008 6:15:04 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4324 4324
The Trump International Golf Club is due to be built on the northern coast of the island, on the 1,000-acre site of the former Coco Beach Golf and Country Club.

It will consist of a 36-hole course and around 500 holiday homes. The homes are expected to cost at least £950,000 and will have access to private jet, yachting and limousine services.

Puerto Rico, a US territory in the northeast Caribbean, is seeking a major boost to its economy and the Trump Organisation investment is expected to bring a large increase in tourism.

Trump's plans to build "the world's greatest golf club" on the Menie Estate, on the coast north of Aberdeen, are awaiting a decision by finance secretary John Swinney after the local council rejected the application.

The proposed resort, which includes plans to build a five-star hotel, 500 luxury homes and 950 timeshare apartments, was lauded by business leaders as a vital economic boost to the region.

But council planners rejected the plans, saying they would cause irrevocable damage to an important ecological habitat and area of natural beauty.

Trump's Scottish woes continued last week after it emerged the coat of arms used to promote his Aberdeenshire resort has not been registered and, therefore, is illegal under Scots law.

Scotland's heraldic authority has the power, under the 300-year-old law, to fine Trump or destroy the emblem unless he pays the £1,200 registration fee.

By Ben Judge

http://news.scotsman.com/donaldtrump/Trump-eyes-410m-golf-resort.3786170.jp


Linkback - Trump eyes £410m golf resort in Puerto Rico
]]> 4/15/2008 6:12:48 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4323 4323
A small number of "Anti-CLC" postings have been removed from view at the request of one of the members.

They have been approached by CLC with an offer to settle out of court, the terms of the offer appear to meet their approval; one of the terms is the removal of any defamatory comments relating to CLC and it's Chairman by the member concerned.

The postings have been removed from public view pending a satisfactory outcome for this member.



Linkback - Removal of postings
]]> 4/14/2008 9:12:10 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4322 4322
Welcome to the world of “voluntourism,” where visiting a foreign country means throwing your back into real work in order to make a real difference.

In June, Judy Bell and friend, Barbara Pressler, will fly to Mozambique on their own dime and then leave another $2,000 or so behind for the privilege of joining a Global Village project as part of Habitat for Humanity International's efforts around the world. They will on an eight-member team that will help build homes in the community of Massaca.

“One of my primary reasons for going is because I don't like to donate to funds - I never really know where my money is going,” Pressler said. “The two draws for me were taking a trip to Africa and having a chance to help people out, first-hand.

“I love going to Third World countries and relating to the children,” added Pressler, whose international travels have carried her to places like India, Nepal and Papau, New Guinea. “The kids in the villages are so much fun.”

The home-building project will involve building simple homes - it costs about $1,000 for Habitat to build a house in Mozambique - that will be used by families caring for orphans and vulnerable children (OVC).

The housing projects are designed to complement emergency programs for children whose parents have died from HIV/AIDS. In Mozambique alone, more than 500,000 children have been orphaned by the AIDS epidemic, according to Habitat for Humanity International. By last year, about 600 of them had been sheltered in homes constructed with the help of Habitat team members. Hundreds more are on the way.

Along with housing, the program provides latrines, mosquito nets, water treatment kits, instruction in housing maintenance and the legal documents necessary for an inheritance plan to the families who receive new homes, ensuring that the orphaned children will, once they're older, become the owners. In the interim, the homes are used by relatives, friends or neighbors who agree to care for and raise the orphaned children under that roof.

Although the Global Village projects touch almost every country, Habitat for Humanity International has focused on the OVC program in this African nation.

“It was a priority established by Mozambique, because they're overwhelmed by children who are not part of families,” Bell said. “The girls are vulnerable to prostitution; the boys are vulnerable to the military. They end up doing anything they can to survive.”

Each team member pays a fee to take part in the building project and the money goes into a fund to buy building materials for the next round of homes. For Bell and Pressler, the trip is the most effective way they can imagine to offset the global image of the “Ugly American” as someone who is loud, overfed and either ignorant or unconcerned about what goes on in the rest of the world.

“People are flabbergasted when they learn that there are Americans who are willing to go someplace and help build a house for someone they've never met,” Bell said. “It's so different from the impression they have of us.”

For these two women, changing that impression in a lasting way means doing so in person by getting down to work, rather than engaging in painless philanthropy by slipping a few bucks into a mission envelope a couple of times a year.

“I think everyone should have a chance to travel to a Third World country - if even for a couple of days - to witness the kind of poverty that exists and see how it affects children,” Pressler said. “It seems like our culture is becoming even more based on the value of things and what we have. The awareness of what really matters starts at home, with what we're teaching our own children.”

“And it's a lot more than just saying, ‘Clean up your plate - children are starving in India,'” Bell added.

Team members are encouraged to bring along family photos to share with new friends, but avoid pictures that might be seen as flaunting their wealth or extravagant lifestyle to an impoverished nation.

“In other words, you don't want to bring a picture of yourself posing in front of your Mercedes,” Bell said.

Gifts, too, should be simple in nature - pencils for the village school or basic supplies for the medical clinic. The greatest gift these working visitors can bestow, according to Habitat, is the same “sweat equity” that each family will invest as their new homes are constructed.

Pressler learned about the opportunity to travel to Mozambique when her friend's brother and sister-in-law, Bob and Leslie Bell, visited Sandpoint and presented a slide show on their own, long-time involvement with Habitat for Humanity International projects around the world. Hearing that the couple would act as trip leaders in June and learning that Judy planned to join them as one of the workers, Pressler added her name to the list of people heading for Africa.

While they are in Mozambique, the women may be in close proximity to other tourists who are in the midst of a very different vacation experience, one that is completely protected from the reality that exists just outside the gated walls of their resort compound, just out of sight of those lounging poolside.

“The thing is, it's getting easier and easier to be whisked off to these countries and never see the poverty,” Bell said. “You can surround yourself with incredible luxury, go to the private beaches, eat well, drink well and be waited on the whole time you're there.”

“Not me,” said Pressler. “I want to be challenged. Give me the snakes, the bugs and the butterflies. I want the adventure.”

“I don't really know exactly what this is going to be like,” Bell admitted. “I'm a total newbie to all of this.”

Pressler, on the other hand, has an idea of what to expect when she arrives based on her other journeys abroad.

“I think it depends on how much you've traveled to countries like that,” she said. “You know you're going to see some sad things, but after a while, nothing is alarming any more. It's just the real world that you're seeing.

“And the real world is a wake-up call.”

For information about the Mozambique housing project visit: www.habitat.org/gv and click on Mozambique under the “Featured Global Village Trips” subheading. Information about making donations to this particular project, using the event code GV8125, can be found on this same site.

http://www.bonnercountydailybee.com/articles/2008/04/13/news/news01.txt

Linkback - Holiday with a difference - Voluntourism
]]> 4/14/2008 6:07:25 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4321 4321
VacationSource.com is now open to additional clients in order to broaden the scope of the offers featured on the site.

Developed in conjunction with Vibes Interactive, VacationSource.com includes online booking and tour management capabilities. The easy-to-navigate site allows visitors to view vacation package descriptions, accommodation features, resort details, and additional benefits.

“We’re thrilled to offer our clients this innovative product designed to assist them in generating cost-effective incremental tour flow to their resorts,” said David C. Gilbert, executive vice president of resort sales and marketing for Interval International. “VacationSource educates, screens, and books resort tours for potential owners in a few simple steps. We’re confident that clients who participate will be satisfied with the results.”

“Interval International is bringing its clients a new approach to an age-old industry challenge with VacationSource,” noted Andy Genuso, chief operating officer for sales and marketing at Pacific Monarch Resorts, Inc. and a participant in the beta test. “Because consumers who tour our resorts after booking on this site generally are more informed about the industry, we’re finding that they are more predisposed to purchase with us. We’re very pleased to have this additional tool to assist us in attracting new owners to our resorts.”

Interval International is a leading provider of exchange, travel, and leisure services to resort developers and vacationers worldwide. Based in Miami, Florida, the company has been a pioneer and innovator in serving the vacation ownership market for more than 30 years. Today, Interval has a network of over 2,300 resorts in excess of 75 countries and offers its clients and nearly 2 million member families high-quality products and programs through its 28 offices in 17 countries. Interval is part of IAC, which owns and operates more than 60 diversified brands in sectors being transformed by the Internet, online and offline. Other IAC companies include Ask.com, HSN, LendingTree, Match.com, and Ticketmaster.

http://www.thetimeshareblog.com/vacationsourcecom-drives-potential-owners-to-interval-international-clients-resort-properties/

Linkback - Interval International - Book a sales tour
]]> 4/14/2008 6:00:17 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4320 4320
A handful of airlines are poised to offer wireless Internet access inside their planes, giving passengers the ability to answer e-mails, conduct work, social network and otherwise entertain themselves. That Internet black hole known as the airplane cabin will soon be no more.

JetBlue in December began a pilot test of in-flight wireless service that offers users access to Yahoo e-mail and chat and allows Wi-Fi-enabled BlackBerry devices to get e-mail. In the coming months, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines and Virgin America will begin trials of more robust Wi-Fi services that offer full broadband speeds to laptops, media players and gaming devices. Regular Wi-Fi service could begin on many of the airlines by the end of this year.

Many of the test flights will involve planes flying to and from the Bay Area.

The services use a variety of technologies, but they offer the same basic premise: provide people with the Internet access they enjoy at home, in the office or at hotspots.

"More of what we do on the ground these days is Internet-connected. It's the nexus of what we do, so to offer that same capability in-flight is very valuable," said Doug Backelin, manager of in-flight communications and technology for American Airlines.

In-flight wireless will not include cell phone service, which the Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Aviation Administration have blocked so far. Most of the airlines also have vowed to disable Skype and other Internet phone services accessible through laptops and Wi-Fi phones. The European Commission, however, has approved in-flight cell phone service, which is being tested out by carriers such as Air France, Emirates and Ryanair.

The cost of the domestic Wi-Fi service is still being worked out. Aircell, which is providing the wireless service for American and Virgin America, is looking at charging $12.95 for flights longer than three hours and less for shorter trips. Row 44, which supplies the technology for Alaska Airlines and Southwest, is working with its carrier partners to set pricing, which hasn't been determined. JetBlue uses technology from its subsidiary LiveTV and is offering wireless access free on its one test airplane, which flies cross-country.

The carriers hope to provide connection speeds comparable to DSL service, around 1 to 2 Mbps for each user. The technology providers they're relying on are achieving wireless in the skies in two very different ways.

Aircell installs antennas on the bottom of the plane that communicate with its own network of 92 cell towers on the ground. Inside the plane, there will be at least two Wi-Fi access points that provide a signal to travelers. The company said the setup can deliver 3 Mbps to the plane, which is compressed and allows travelers to share the equivalent of a 15 Mbps connection.

LiveTV offers a similar setup but with a narrower slice of radio spectrum than Aircell. As such, it can't provide the same bandwidth, which limits its offerings to e-mail and online chatting. The company plans to roll out satellite Internet service beginning in 2009.

Row 44 delivers Internet access via satellites, which beam data back and forth using a flat antenna on top of airplanes. The service, which uses three satellites that are shared by Hughes Networks Systems, is able to provide 30 Mbps to the plane and can operate over the ocean for international flights.

Analysts predict the service will be embraced by passengers, especially business travelers. In a recent Forrester Research survey, 55 percent of travelers on flights of four hours or more said they would be interested in paying for in-flight wireless access. Airline executives are expecting Wi-Fi in the skies to become a standard feature aboard all planes.

'Bare minimum'

"Wi-Fi is going to be a vanilla amenity," said Charles Ogilvie, Virgin America's director of in-flight entertainment and partnerships. "Once you put a product or feature out there and it really starts to resonate with users, it becomes the standard and the bare minimum."

Wi-Fi lovers will have some limits to deal with when surfing in the sky. Skype and other Internet phone services will be disabled to ensure peace and quiet in the cabin. Users trying to download large files also will have their traffic throttled to guarantee other users aren't adversely affected.

"If you're streaming video, you might be ... at the back of the line or the loading may be slower than you'd like to see," said Jack Blumenstein, CEO of Aircell. "But if you're on a flight with not a lot of activity, you'll find you can do what you want."

The use of wireless on board raises a number of new questions for airlines. Flight attendants likely will have to field technical questions for the first time. They'll also have to police against passengers viewing inappropriate content online.

"The airlines have all cut back already, so there's less staffing," said Sara Nelson, a spokeswoman for the Association for Flight Attendants. "This is just going to increase our role and make it more difficult."

Steve Jarvis, vice president of marketing, sales and customer experience for Alaska Airlines, admits offering wireless may add to their flight attendants' workload. But he said the system is being designed to work with minimal support.

New opportunities

Creating the infrastructure for broadband in the skies is opening up new opportunities for airlines. Row 44 is looking at providing wireless users with a form of Internet protocol television. Virgin American is using the new connectivity to provide Internet access to its seatback entertainment systems. Virgin is also tapping game developers to create networked games that can be played by passengers in the same plane and by travelers on different flights.

"The basis for all of this is the understanding that we have a captive audience at 35,000 feet who want more than just the experience of watching the seat in front of them," Virgin's Ogilvie said. "There are so many possibilities on the application side that the Internet will enable now."

Wi-Fi in the skies

-- Alaska Airlines: Testing wireless Internet access this summer
-- American Airlines: Testing service on 15 planes by mid-year
-- Continental: Testing limited wireless next year
-- JetBlue: Currently testing one plane offering limited Yahoo e-mail, IM chat and BlackBerry e-mail service
-- Southwest Airlines: Testing service on four planes in late summer
-- Virgin America: Testing service late this year

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/04/13/BUB41043AJ.DTL



Linkback - Inflight WiFi
]]> 4/14/2008 5:51:57 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4319 4319
Since I am in Puerto Vallarta Right now, I think I could go and try the 300 bucks, but first I want to get some input from some people to get to know the real deal hehe, I just want to know if these kind of programs work, any advises will be appreciated,


Linkback - good deal?
]]> 4/14/2008 4:00:44 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4318 4318 Guess who it is:



More of the picture to be revealed daily.

The more that is revealed, the less the reward.

Today it is worth 5 points!



Linkback - Guess who it is - 13 April
]]> 4/13/2008 5:48:06 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4317 4317 We are unable to use R.C.I. exchange week this year as follows;Friday 20/06/2008 to 27/06/2008 at SVC Mountainside Lodge, Whistler.
Studio, Full Kitchen Sleeps Max 4 Privacy 2.
A valuable week,in the heart of the village. Will obtain guest certificate for new guests in the price of £320 ovno.
Please email me at info@littlepalmsvilla.com for further information. Thank you.
Howard.

Linkback - June Whistler B/C exchange week for sale.
]]> 4/13/2008 2:13:30 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4316 4316
Body odour, bad singing, being saucy; you can be thrown off for anything these days

Good morning, and welcome to BloggsAir. Before you board today, do you mind answering a few questions? Splendid. Just let me get my clipboard ... right, off we go.

Are you dressed revealingly? Is there a large toy crocodile in your hand luggage? While on this flight, do you intend to read pornography, emit offensive body odour or perhaps sing a topical football-based ditty?

If so, the chances are you’re going to get slung off. All the above offences have recently resulted in passengers being escorted from the plane by stony-faced airport-security bods. In fact, over the past few years, cabin crew have taken to turfing us out of planes in unprecedented numbers.

Only a few days ago, the otherwise blameless Dr Paolo Tomasi from London was unceremoniously dumped off a Ryanair flight for the heinous crime of talking to his eight-year-old son during the safety briefing.

Getting ejected for having a chat lacks class, though. It’s a bit meek, a bit pedestrian. Aren’t there ways of doing it with more panache?

Oh yes there are. Here is our guide to involuntary deplaning with style, all based on real and recent episodes.

SING ABOUT FOOTBALLERS’ UNDERWEAR

After a fine win over Cardiff last year, fans of Sunderland AFC boarded an EasyJet flight in buoyant mood and sang the praises of their chairman in time-honoured terrace fashion. In case you’re not a regular at the Stadium of Light, the lyrics, to the tune of ’Ere We Go, ’Ere We Go, ’Ere We Go, are as follows: “Niall Quinn’s disco pants are the best.

They go up from his arse to his chest. They’re better than Adam and the Ants, Niall Quinn’s disco pants.” EasyJet staff, unused to Wearside poetry, called the police and had all 100 fans thrown off. Quinn himself shelled out £8,000 for taxis to get them home.

Style rating: 10 - and 11 for Quinn. What a guy.

PAY INSUFFICIENT ATTENTION TO PERSONAL HYGIENE

A German man was chucked off a plane in Honolulu in 2006 for being excessively whiffy. After two hours’ chasing around a hot airport with heavy luggage, he took his seat, only to be asked to leave it when fellow passengers complained. He tried to sue the airline in a D#65533;sseldorf court, and lost; he tried to appeal, but got stuck in traffic. The case was thrown out.

Style rating: 0 - hapless, hopeless and smelly. Not a good combination.

BLOCK THE EMERGENCY EXIT WITH A HUGE STUFFED CROCODILE

Last November, a woman on a Ryanair flight from Rome to Milan refused to move her metre-long cuddly toy crocodile, which the crew said was blocking the emergency exit. Both were removed.

Style rating: 8 – yes, exits are important, but you’ve got to admit there’s something cool about a life-threatening cuddly croc.

WEAR THE WRONG CLOTHES

American Lorrie Heasley took her seat sporting a T-shirt that featured pictures of George Bush and friends, with a slogan based on the hit film Meet the Fockers – but with one crucial vowel altered. Airline staff were not amused, and she was dumped halfway through her journey at Reno, Nevada.

Unfortunately, her garment wasn’t supplied by Tshirthell.com, a company that has pledged to provide alternative transport to anyone thrown off a flight for wearing its products. Since one of its more repeatable slogans reads “I’d rather be snorting cocaine off a hooker’s ass”, that’s probably just as well.

Style rating: 7 – but only if your clothing is genuinely funny.

DON’T WEAR ENOUGH CLOTHES

That was the crime of Kyla Ebbert, a 23-year-old waitress at the subtly named Hooters chain of restaurants. She was removed from a Southwest Airlines plane in San Diego for being dressed too provocatively, in micro miniskirt and tight T-shirt – though she was let back on when she rearranged them to cover as much as possible. (It took a while. She’s a big girl.) “I was embarrassed and humiliated,” she said. To regain her dignity, she took everything off again for Playboy.

Style rating: 6 – if you can pull it off. Or down.

ATTEMPT SEX

A flight made an unplanned landing last November to eject a couple who were intent on joining the mile-high club. After “fooling around” in front of other passengers in their economy seats, the pair made for the lavatories. Instead of ending up in Las Vegas, as planned, they were dumped in Portland, Oregon. It is not known whether their love was consummated.

Style rating: 1 – sex in the air is only fun if you don’t get found out. And nobody wants to be marooned in Portland.

SAY ‘BYE-BYE, PLANE’

Last July, 19-month-old Garren Penland – who’d just endured an 11-hour delay at Houston airport – said those words repeatedly (as children will) during the safety briefing on a Continental flight. “The flight attendant said, ‘Okay, it’s not funny any more. You need to shut your baby up,’ ” claimed his mum, Kate. Unfazed, Garren kept going, and mother and son soon ended up on the tarmac.

Style rating: 5 – awww, kids, eh? We think it’s cute. Though, after the 30th time, we might have changed our minds, too. Especially if we were sitting next to the little cherub.

READ PORN

In 2005, South African carrier Nationwide Airlines called a taxiing flight back to the terminal to eject AC Hoffman, a Cape Town businessman. He’d been perusing Loslyf, a local publication of liberated bent. “The air hostess snatched it off me, I told her she was f ***in’ rude, and they chucked me off,” he said. “This will not be the end of the matter. My hand luggage has not even been returned.” We think he meant the periodical. The airline’s chief executive, Vernon Bricknell, commented helpfully: “If you want to look at this kind of stuff, go and do so in the toilet.”

Style rating: 2 – porn on a flight? Not high on the class-o-meter. Even if you bought it for the articles.

SWEAR... IF YOU’RE THE PILOT

Bit of a turnaround, this. Last April, the captain of a Northwest Airlines flight from Las Vegas to Detroit was heard by first-class passengers making prolific use of the f-word on his mobile as he boarded the plane. When they complained, he continued to swear – at them this time. Eventually, the airline’s management removed him from the flight. A rare example of passenger power.

Style rating: 0 – pilots should wear ties (and perhaps goggles) and be unflappable. The only acceptable swear word is “dashed”.

DIE

It has drama, but, actually, this one won’t get you slung off. It’ll get you upgraded. Last March, a woman who expired in an economy seat on a British Airways flight was immediately reseated at the front of the plane. One first-class passenger was understandably fazed when he woke up to find that the vacant seat next to him was now occupied by a corpse. The airline later apologised.

Style rating: 8 – if you’ve got to take your last journey, do it in first.

Stephen Bleach

http://travel.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/travel/your_say/article3552313.ece


Linkback - Ten ways to get kicked off a plane
]]> 4/13/2008 7:12:31 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4315 4315
After it was built, visitors flocked to visit the resort, which, along with Radium Hot Springs was the cornerstone of early tourism to the now-popular region just across the Alberta border into British Columbia.

But over the years, newer resort developments sprang up near Radium, Invermere and Windermere, and Fairmont Hot Springs lost some of its fame.

Don Slobodzian, managing broker with Royal LePage Rockies West Realty, recalls that when he came to the valley in the early 1990s, many people from outside the region were not that familiar with Fairmont Hot Springs.

"There was a time when a lot of people I talked to knew of Radium but had never heard of Fairmont," says Slobodzian. "But slowly that has changed."

Now with new owners set to go ahead with a massive redevelopment plan for much of Fairmont, the community could once again become the focal point of the Columbia Valley.

Slobodzian says many people are responding positively to the proposals by Ken Fowler Enterprises for Fairmont Hot Springs.

"I think they have some pretty exciting plans as to what they're going to do with the land base in the Fairmont area. I think it's going to put Fairmont on the map," he says.

In addition to its historic natural hot springs, Fairmont has several attractions that have made it a popular place for people to own recreation property.

Slobodzian says there is golf and skiing right in Fairmont, and easy access to all the other amenities of the valley including all the additional golf courses.

The mountainside area of Fairmont also has its own unique flavour with easy access to the nearby wilderness along with beautiful views of the valley.

Not much new development has taken place in Fairmont in recent years other than a few new subdivisions.

Slobodzian says you can find some building lots in the mountainside area priced from around $125,000, while lots at Riverside can run upwards of half a million dollars.

Single-family homes start from about $500,000 with many in the $700,000 to $800,000 range and a few that would likely fetch more than $1 million if they were put on the market.

Slobodzian says there is a definite lack of townhome product, which is actually causing some people who retired to Fairmont 10 or 15 years ago to leave the community in search of low-maintenance, single-level real estate.

He says while several large large buildings near the Riverside golf course look like condominium developments, they are are actually timeshare villas.

Slobodzian says those timeshare properties have introduced a lot of people to the Fairmont area, and some of them enjoyed their vacation so much they decided buy real estate in the community.

Whether the billion-dollar plans for Fairmont Hot Springs will once again propel it into the centre of attention in the Columbia Valley remains to be seen, but Slobodzian says the new owners seem to be really in touch with what has made Fairmont a success in the past and plan to add to that legacy.

"Fairmont has charm right now, but with the Fowler group it looks like they are really tuned into keeping the charm there and maybe adding even more. I feel positive about that."

http://www.canada.com/calgaryherald/news/story.html?id=70ac1c94-1dc6-4a05-a9bd-f8eb452e83e8


Linkback - Fairmont set to be put back on the map
]]> 4/13/2008 7:07:54 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4314 4314
Luxury villa (http://www.vipvillas.com) and hotel specialist VIPvillas.com has launched a new range of exclusive hotels and lodges in South Africa, Zambia and Mozambique expanding its portfolio of ultimate holiday experiences to the African continent.

The company now features 27 select properties across South Africa, ranging from rustic bushcamps and lodges in the Serengeti, to state-of-the-art private villas in Cape Town, with each holiday individually tailored to combine the best accommodation, flights and services.

New properties featured on the site include some of South Africa's most prestigious hotels - the River Manor Boutique Hotel and Spa in Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands; the Singita Game Reserve; and Les Cascades de Bantry Bay, set in the most exclusive bay on the Atlantic Seaboard close to Cape Town.

VIPvillas' new South Africa programme will also include five-star cookery courses at the award winning Le Quartier Français; golf breaks at some of the country's finest courses, which are gaining a growing reputation for their quality and service; and safari adventures at the Singita Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger National Park and the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve in the Northern Cape.

Elsewhere in Africa the company features a range of five-star villas and hotels (http://www.vipvillas.com) in spectacular locations including Zambezi River, Livingstone and Luanga River in Zambia and Benguerua Island in Mozambique with each holiday created to the specific requirements of each customer.

Simon Williams, Operations Director of VIPvillas.com, said: "Demand for top-end Luxury Properties is growing and with it comes the need for a more bespoke and personalised service. While South Africa has always had strong links with the UK, this is now extending to other areas of Africa and our new properties demonstrate the high quality that is now available.

"With a choice of Luxury Villas across Africa, we can now offer a tailored programme for those who want a short break or a month-long stay. Our properties elsewhere are already attracting a lot of interest since we launched at the end of last year and we look forward to welcoming more discerning travellers with our Africa programme."

Beyond Africa, VIPvillas.com offers exclusive villas (http://www.vipvillas.com) and hotels in the Caribbean, Greek Islands, Dubai, the Indian Ocean and Thailand, including Sandy Lane and Royal Westmoreland in Barbados, the Hyatt Hotel in Dubai, and luxury villas (http://www.vipvillas.com) which offer services ranging from personal chefs and chauffeurs, to private speed boats and more.

A number of luxury villas (http://www.vipvillas.com) have also been specially selected for VIPvillas' weddings and honeymoons programme, each hand picked for their romantic setting and exclusive style. Available in Barbados, Cyprus, Crete, Thailand and Jamaica, weddings are individually tailored in conjunction with specialist wedding planners.

Prices for a one week stay at the exclusive Bantry Bay offering stunning views on the Cape, start from £19,885 based on ten people sharing the five bedroom villa.

Prices for a one week stay at Les Cascades de Bantry Bay costs start from £700 per night per room.

For more information on VIPvillas visit http://www.vipvillas.com, call 08458 739 639 or email admin@vipvillas.com.

About VIPvillas.com

Launched in 2007 VIPvillas.com offers over 450 high quality Luxury Villas and hotels around the World. Destinations include Southern Africa, the Caribbean, Greek Islands, Indian Ocean and Thailand, with all holidays tailor-made to individual travel specifications. A range of Bespoke Feature Holidays is also available including cookery, golf, safari, beach and city breaks. Weddings and honeymoons can also be arranged with specialist wedding planners available to assist with organisation. For more information visit VIP Villas (http://www.vipvillas.com)

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2008/4/prweb849594.htm


Linkback - VIP Villas - Bespoke Luxury Holidays Across Africa
]]> 4/13/2008 7:02:16 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4313 4313 We managed to book a week at this gorgeous resort from 6th-13th June but sadly we are no longer able to go. To say i am gutted is an understatement as it appears so rarely in the exchange system, think i have only seen it 3 times in the last 10 years.
Looking to rent it out for £400 o.n.o which would include the exchange fee, booking a week at The Edinburgh Residence usually costs approx £1,600 when staying in a suite.
We have stayed there once before and both loved it so much we wanted to return, its got a lovely feel about it, so much character and is a beautiful building. Its super and central for sightseeing and shopping in Edinburgh which is a beautiful city.
Lots of Love Mo [:I]

Linkback - Edinburgh Residence for rent, 6-13th June,£400 ono
]]> 4/12/2008 8:37:08 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4312 4312 May have some CLC points for sale upto 1000 if anyone is looking to buy vacation points.Regards Sanjay

Linkback - CLC POINTS FOR SALE
]]> 4/12/2008 1:55:09 PM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4311 4311
If you think buying a timeshare in Mexico sounds like more trouble than it's worth, the Royal Holiday Vacation Club has a deal for you. It offers something completely different -- let's call it the un-timeshare.

A promotional video produced by the company says, "Welcome to the exciting world of Royal Holiday & a great way to have luxury vacations without breaking the bank."

Based in Mexico, Royal Holiday is doing a booming business signing up vacationers at busy sales offices around the Caribbean. It isn't selling property; it's selling points and promises. A typical member pays roughly $11,000 to join the club, plus a yearly fee of about $465. For that, a member gets points that the club says can be used to book luxury vacations.

Royal Holiday calls its Vacations for Life plan an alternative to the complaint-riddled timeshare business. But a "20/20" hidden camera investigation inside the club's sales operation in Cancun raised troubling questions about how Royal Holiday sells memberships and delivers on its promises. According to angry complaints placed both in the United States and in Mexico, hundreds upon hundreds of the club's members wish they weren't.

"We love to travel," says Natasha Rajtar of Albany, N.Y., who signed up with her husband, Jason. "And we thought how cool over the next 30 years to be able to travel the world with our children."

A Royal Holiday promotional video says, "Today we can share a secret with you, one that guarantees luxury vacations in first class hotels around the world."
What is Royal Holiday's real "secret"?

"20/20" interviewed a cross-section of the growing number of members who say Royal Holiday misled them about how the club operates, and the availability of vacations they'd want. They say the only thing royal about their membership was the way they were ripped off.

John and Robin Chomko, who are from the St Louis area, joined in the Dominican Republic in 2006. "They'll tell you anything," John says of the Royal Holiday salespeople. "They'll lie, I mean, they lied completely to us."

Royal Holiday says 97 percent of its approximately 65,000 members never complain. But Mexico's consumer protection agency, Procuraduria Federal del Consumidor, or Profeco, says Royal Holiday has 1,800 complaints. Asked to comment, Royal Holiday referred us to its Mexico City lawyer, Agustin Garcia. We pointed out to Garcia that in 2005, Royal Holiday had 282 complaints; 506 complaints in 2006 and 761 complaints in 2007. A short time after our interview, Royal Holiday provided the following written statement:

"Royal Holiday Club is fully committed to providing a best-in-class vacation experience to all our members. While the kind of complaints reported by '20/20' have come from only a small percentage of our customers, we take these issues very seriously and are working aggressively to address them. Building on our 25 years of experience, we are undertaking a comprehensive effort to improve the quality of our services and increase customer satisfaction."

The Federal Trade Commission says the travel, vacations and timeshare industry was in its top 10 complaint categories in 2007. And it says complaints about Royal Holiday are also piling up at the Better Business Bureau of South East Florida and the Caribbean, located in West Palm Beach, Fla.

Better Business Bureau Senior Vice President Carol Venello read from a stack of complaints for things like "high pressure sales tactics that are absolute lies" and "no destinations ever available, no matter how far in advance they called."

Venello says the pattern is members reporting high-pressure sales, misrepresentation and failure to disclose conditions of the offer. "What they are alleging is that they are being pressured into signing," she says. "That the product or the vacation is misrepresented as to how they can use it, when they can use it, hotels that are available."

The Better Business Bureau gives Royal Holiday its lowest rating, a mark understandable in Spanish or English: an F. Royal Holiday's lawyer Garcia acknowledges to ABC News' Jim Avila that "F's not good, even in elementary school."

With that kind of complaint record& how do the salespeople get tourists to bite? Long of West Virginia says, "They are good. I will give them that. They are good."

It starts at the airport and follows potential buyers across Cancun. When "20/20" traveled to Cancun in January, producers found a Royal Holiday sales presentation with offers of free meals, a spa day and other enticements at the airport. After accepting the offer of a free breakfast at the Hyatt Cancun Caribe hotel, a producer asked a Royal Holiday worker whether the sales presentation would include high-pressure tactics or hard selling. The employee said emphatically no.

But "20/20" producers posing as tourists were repeatedly solicited by Royal Holiday representatives bearing gifts. During the first cup of coffee at breakfast, the saleswoman -- who sat right down at the table to eat with the producers -- began serving a classic high-pressure technique: the limited time offer. "If you join the club today, you have incentives, only today," she said. "If you wanted to come back tomorrow we cannot."

Members had warned of a luxury suite switcheroo. Doug and Karin LaClair say the beautiful suite they were shown before they joined in the Bahamas in 2003 is not what they got after they paid. "It was just a regular room," Doug says. "It was just a regular Motel 6 kind of room," agrees Karin. Sure enough, down in Cancun, the saleswoman showed our undercover producers a beautiful ocean-front presidential suite at the Hyatt. The truth is, an average Royal Holiday member would have to spend nearly their entire year's points to stay here for just one night on a weekend in high season. But again and again the saleswoman assured us that the suite was standard for Royal Holiday members. When a producer asked, "Are all your rooms this nice, are all these suites this nice?"
"Well I think they are nicer!" replied the saleswoman.

Royal Holiday's lawyer says members must read their agreement and the operating rules, and remember -- this is key -- nothing the salesperson says really matters. But at least until late last year, that advice may have been less helpful than it sounds because even those who read their contract might have been fooled.

For example, in Mexico, a buyer can cancel a timeshare or vacation club contract for any reason within five days. That's the Mexican law. But that's not what a Royal Holiday contract signed in 2006 and obtained by "20/20" said. That contract not only made no mention of the right to cancel within five days, it actually declared, "This agreement cannot be canceled by either party" and "this agreement, for which there is no reconsideration period"

We asked Garcia whether he found that misleading and why the contract would include those untrue statements. He said, "No, I cannot think & why. & " Asked if it bothered him, Garcia said, "well, yes."

The company later told "20/20" that until late last year Mexican law did not require it to disclose customers' right to cancel, so it didn't. Royal Holiday is now required by law to disclose the five-day cancellation plan, and they say they have changed their contracts accordingly.

In Cancun, the sales presentation we were told would last just 90 minutes dragged on for more than three hours. Breakfast was followed by an open bar. But even after a couple of cocktails, our producers turned down a $70,000 membership. A new saleswoman took over, and cut the price in half. The producers said no again, so the tag team continued with yet another saleswoman, the third.

But perhaps the most incredible claim we heard all day was the promise that our entire purchase price would be invested in a Swiss bank, that would return every cent to us in 30 years. Even Royal Holiday's lawyer said he never heard that one. Later, Royal Holiday explained that it offers an option to invest a small part of the purchase price with a company in the British Virgin Islands and, if the investment pays off, 30 years later customers could get their money back.

But while your money may be traveling to exotic locations, most of the would-be world travelers we interviewed said they have gone nowhere. "We expected to do a really cool thing for our family," New Yorker Rajtar said. "We thought that we were doing something that would enrich our lives, and it's done nothing but the opposite."

After "20/20" began investigating, Royal Holiday refunded the money most of the members we interviewed, and released them from their contracts.

By ANDREW PAPARELLA

http://abcnews.go.com/Business/Story?id=4627886&page=1

Linkback - Vacations for Life: Too Good to Be True?
]]> 4/12/2008 6:38:27 AM http://blog.8pixel.net/?view=plink&id=4310 4310 The airline had planned to shift the bulk of its long-haul operation, including its transatlantic flights, to the new terminal at the end of the month.

The move would have seen the number of passengers handled at the new terminal double from 40,000 to 80,000 a day.

But after the fiasco of the terminal's opening, when hundreds of flights were delayed and tens of thousands of bags lost, Heathrow and BA have decided to delay the transfer of further flights.

The delay will have knock-on effects for more than 50 other airlines using Heathrow, as a long chain of further moves hinge on the reallocation of BA's former space.

The first airlines to be hit by the move will be Delta, KLM and Air France, which were due to move