This is the Life.
Transcription
This is the Life.
winter 2010 This is the Life. Brand Hilton Worldwide and Hilton Grand Vacations aligned for success Loyalty Christopher J. Nassetta, president and CEO of Hilton Worldwide and Mark Wang, president of Hilton Grand Vacations PLUS: The new Waldorf Astoria Orlando Member news GRANDTIMES This is the Life Winter 2010 2 StarService Meet the general manager of Hilton Grand Vacations Club in Hawaii 3 Green light Hilton’s commitment to sustainability has a long reach 4 C O V ER S T O R Y Brand View Hilton Worldwide and HIlton Grand Vacations aligned for success D e a r C l u b M e m b e r, As we look ahead to 2011 and explore the possibilities that another New Year brings, it’s also wonderful to acknowledge that some things in life are actually timeless. There is an enduring value placed on our family and friendships, and our favorite memories of shared experiences are lasting treasures. When I joined the Hilton team more than 25 years ago, I discovered a simple truth that would anchor my professional journey and become a personal reality: Vacations are indeed the brief shining breaks we spend months anticipating… and years reliving. Though it isn’t always easy to carve out vacation time, the benefits of doing so are priceless. As a Club Member, you’ve made it a priority to continue enjoying familiar places and exploring far-away destinations. And while your travels may bring you to some of the world’s most celebrated locations, your experiences remain uniquely your own. You go where you want to go, when you want to go, and you go with your favorite people…it doesn’t get much better than that! It’s truly my pleasure to be part of a team that helps you go wherever your vacation dreams take you. On behalf of Hilton Grand Vacations, thank you for your loyalty to Hilton and best wishes for another year of grand vacations ahead! Sincerely, 8 orlando oasis Experience the new Waldorf Astoria 12 Cruise News Fall for a 2011 autumn voyage to New England and Canada 15 RCI Exchange Vacation news 19 Take a Peak Pack your bags for a Park City getaway 20 High five Hilton Grand Vacations Club on the Las Vegas Strip celebrates five years 22 Clubpartner Perks A new way to use your Bonus Points 6355 MetroWest Boulevard, Suite 180 Orlando, Florida 32835 USA Grand Times is published by Hilton Grand Vacations Club and is distributed exclusively to Club Members. © 2010 Hilton Worldwide Hilton Grand Vacations® and Hilton Grand Vacations Club® are registered trademarks of HLT Domestic IP, LLC and are licensed to Hilton Grand Vacations Company, LLC. For Club reservations, information and 2 GRANDTIMES service, visit the secure, Members-only website: hgvclub.com. Kim Robert Kreiger Senior Vice President, Club and Resorts Sta r S e rv i c e “I will never ask a staff member to do something that I wouldn’t do myself,” says Henry Perez, the new general manager of Hilton Grand Vacations Club at Hilton Hawaiian Village, when asked about the secret of his success. Perez is bringing his signature enthusiasm and a track record of success to his role overseeing the resort operations of the combined 656 Club units in the Lagoon, Kalia and Grand Waikikian towers. “I walk the property frequently each day and visit with all of the staff. For me, this is truly the best way to check the pulse of the property and the team.” Perez, a Miami native who joined the Hilton Grand Henry Perez is the new general Vacations team several months ago, brings more manager of the Club properties at than 20 years of experience in hotel and timeshare Hilton Hawaiian Village. management to the resort. Most recently, he was the area general manager for Aqua Hotels in Waikiki and Maui. He’s also served as executive vice president/chief officer and general manager of the Lawai Beach Resort and has held executive positions at Embassy Suites, Marriott, Omni and Intercontinental properties. “Guest service is a priority, and our team is committed to ensuring that owners and guests enjoy amazing accommodations and attentive service,” Perez says. “When guests tell me about their experiences, I know that our staff really does make a difference. I love to see the glow of excitement as guests share stories about their adventures and express their appreciation for the resort. I never tire of seeing the transformation of visitors as they experience the aloha spirit.” Green Light When it comes to sustainability, it’s all systems go for Hilton Worldwide and Hilton Grand Vacations In today’s culture, there’s a renewed focus on the environment and on the impact we all have on the world around us. From global warming to going green to carbon footprints, there’s no ignoring the fact that the environment is important. And environmental responsibility is important to Hilton Worldwide. As the global leader in hospitality accommodating billions of guests every year, Hilton is in a position to make a big difference. The company’s long-held commitment to guests, team members and the communities we serve is the foundation for everything we do, and we are committed to improving our performance for a sustainable future. To that end, we have developed a sustainability platform that will guide our business practices today and in the future. Hilton Worldwide is embracing an environmental mission and strategy focused on energy efficiency, CO2 reduction, water efficiency, waste reduction, renewable energy, and sustainable buildings and operations. We want to ensure that our environmentally friendly initiatives will positively affect the guest experience and the local community. Specifically, we are committed to reducing the following within the next five years: • energy consumption by 20%. • CO2 emissions by 20%. • waste output by 20%. • water consumption by 10%. In keeping with the Hilton Worldwide mission, Hilton Grand Vacations is also doing its part. Hilton Grand Vacations Club on the Las Vegas Strip sets the brand standard for on-property sustainability initiatives. In June, the American Hotel and Lodging Association recognized the Club with the Good Earthkeeping–Large Resort award for its environmentally conscious operation. And last year, the resort earned the “Sustainable Hotel of the Year 2009” award at the second annual HotelWorld design competition in Las Vegas. The resort also obtained an EnergyStar rating of 100 points (out of 100), recognizing the resort’s buildings as 66% more energy-efficient than all other similar buildings in the United States. The resort’s sustainability committee efforts continue to evolve, most recently resulting in the creation of a regional sustainability committee involving the two other Hilton Grand Vacations properties in Vegas. And Club Members can make a difference, too. Opting to receive only electronic communications from Hilton Grand Vacations is a small change with real impact. If you’re not already among the more than 25,000 Members who have opted to stop receiving print communications, consider this easy opportunity to do your part the next time you visit hgvclub.com. GRANDTIMES 3 4 GRANDTIMES Brand Loyalty Hilton Worldwide and Hilton Grand Vacations aligned for success I read recently that even the most cost-conscious Americans tend to splurge on activities rather than possessions,” says Christopher J. Nassetta, president and CEO of Hilton Worldwide. “This is partly because possessions disappoint over time, but experiences appreciate in value, in our memories. And that really resonates with me because that’s what Hilton Worldwide strives to provide—exceptional, memorable experiences.” For more than 91 years, the Hilton name has been synonymous with a legendary reputation for attentive guest service and high-quality accommodations. As the leading global hospitality company, Hilton Worldwide remains committed to GRANDTIMES 5 “Members own more than just a vacation property—they have a stake in the direction of Hilton Grand Vacations and Hilton Worldwide.” Christopher J. Nassetta, president and CEO of Hilton Worldwide, shared a company update with more than 400 members of the Hilton Grand Vacations corporate team in Orlando on October 11, 2010. strengthening and growing the 10 brands within the Hilton portfolio. “Hilton Worldwide seeks to define the trends in hospitality and continues to innovate. Hospitality that exceeds expectations is part of our culture and philosophy,” Nassetta says. This foundation of hospitality and innovation are thriving at Hilton Grand Vacations. From renowned destinations to going above and beyond in customer service, Nassetta recognizes that the Club has an outstanding reputation. “All of Hilton’s brands are aligned in their commitment to the guest experience, so it’s critical to have a shared service philosophy no matter where a guest is staying,” Nassetta says. And that’s something they can expect from Hilton Grand Vacations. Formula for Success Part of the reason the Club remains so effectively aligned with Hilton Worldwide is the leadership of Mark Wang, president of Hilton Grand Vacations Company. “Mark sits on the Hilton Worldwide 6 GRANDTIMES Executive Committee and is an active participant at our board meetings,” Nassetta notes. “It’s exciting to be an important part of such a dynamic company,” Wang says. “Our business at Hilton Grand Vacations is simple: create a world of travel opportunities limited only by our Members’ imagination. We want our Members to have the opportunity to explore the globe and experience the travels of their dreams. We’re able to deliver on this promise because of the support and commitment from Hilton Worldwide.” And as Hilton continues to strengthen its presence as the hospitality leader, Club membership privileges continue to grow. “Even as travel preferences continue to evolve, we are able to accommodate our Members with flexible, innovative options—that’s among our Club’s most distinctive advantages,” Wang says, pointing out that Club Members are among the most loyal Hilton travelers. “The synergy between Hilton Grand Vacations and Hilton Honors is fantastic,” he says. “Year after year, HHonors privileges are typically the most frequently used benefits of Club membership,” Wang adds. “And it is through HHonors that Members are able to experience all 10 brands within the Hilton Worldwide portfolio.” In addition to delivering on Hilton’s commitment to exceptional guest experiences, Nassetta points out that Hilton Grand Vacations is a shining example of living another core aspect of our business: corporate responsibility. Headquartered in Orlando, Fla., the brand was recently named the Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation by the Central Florida Association of Fundraising Professionals for its extensive community service efforts. “That’s the kind of commitment which makes Hilton Grand Vacations such an important part of the Orlando community and the Hilton Worldwide brand,” Nassetta says. “This is a team that is committed to making a positive, powerful impact on the lives of their neighbors, owners and guests.” The Road Ahead Nassetta and Mark Wang, president of Hilton Grand Vacations, at Hilton Worldwide headquarters in McLean, Virginia Fro m i t s ve r y n a m e , Hilton Worldwide seeks to accommodate guests around the world and is continuing to expand rapidly. Nassetta points out the company has increased its portfolio by more than 800 properties in the last three years and has a current pipeline of more than 830 properties in 74 The view from West 57th Street by Hilton Club in New York City countries. The company will continue to rely on Hilton Grand Vacations to sustain its membership services for existing and new Club Members. “Our commitment to timeshare is strong,” Nassetta says. “And we are very much looking forward to growing this brand in the future.” “We’re always looking on the horizon,” Wang emphasizes. “We always ask ourselves how we can enhance customer service, strengthen our brand and give Members new options for making the most of their travel time. A critical part of the vast research we do comes from our Members. They own more than just a vacation property—they have a stake in the direction of Hilton Grand Vacations and Hilton Worldwide.” This is brand loyalty in its purest form, and it’s what makes Hilton Worldwide’s guests and Club Members so unique in a marketplace brimming with vacation choices. “That’s something we never forget: people have choices,” Nassetta says. “And year after year, we’re thrilled they choose Hilton.” GRANDTIMES 7 Orlando Oasis As a Member, you know about all the spectacular resorts and accommodations the Club has to offer in Orlando. But you might not know about the latest stamp Hilton has put on this popular vacation destination: the Waldorf Astoria Orlando. It’s a magnificent jewel in the Waldorf crown, and it’s the first Waldorf Astoria property built from the ground up outside the legendary brand namesake in New York City. The debut of the luxurious hotel marks the entry of Hilton Worldwide’s ninth brand in the Orlando market, all of which cater to a range of needs for vacationers—whether it’s a family looking for outstanding value in a Disney vacation or a couple seeking a romantic getaway where unprecedented luxury is the goal. 8 GRANDTIMES Experience legendary luxury and take advantage of great deals at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando Luxury in the Details Nestled among 482 pristine acres in Bonnet Creek, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando offers all the luxury you’d expect from its legendary namesake. The staff ensures that guests are ushered into a world of unsurpassed service. It starts when you enter the marble-lined lobby—complete with leather chairs and a spectacular view of a cabana pool just a few steps beyond French doors—and it continues throughout every moment of your stay. Every culinary nuance that has made the New York City Waldorf Astoria a world-renowned property has been duplicated in Orlando. That includes famous dishes such as the Waldorf salad, veal Oscar and delectable red velvet cake, all complemented by a celebrated drink menu and master mixologists behind the bar. Each of the resort’s six restaurants, including Bull & Bear Steakhouse, Oscar’s and Aquamarine, has become a destination in its own right. The 24,000-square-foot Spa by Guerlain, featuring 21 treatment rooms, gives new meaning to the concept of rejuvenation. Indulge in a soothing massage, a renewing facial, a cleansing aromatherapy body wrap or one of the many other customized services. Or just relax in the spa’s tea lounge, steam room and Jacuzzi. And if hitting the links is your idea of rejuvenation, the Rees Jones– designed 18-hole golf course awaits. Situated near a large wetlands reserve, the par-72 championship golf course—rated the best new public course by Golf magazine—features 7,108 yards of gorgeous greens that conform to the rolling contours of the land and feel as natural as the sunsets that paint the horizon. When you return from the hotel’s many diversions, you can unwind in the comfort and style of a thoroughly modern room, featuring wireless Internet access and a 42-inch highdefinition LCD television. Oh, and did we mention the thirsty robes? Vacations Club resorts in Orlando, Members receive a 20% discount on golf rates at the Waldorf Astoria Golf Club. Your pre-arrival resort stay confirmation will include a dedicated website where you can arrange details such as tee times. Members can also indulge in luxurious deals at Spa Guerlain, including these complimentary services: rejuvenating foot soak with the purchase of a massage facial or body treatment (a $45 value); eyelash tint with the purchase of a Radiance facial ($45 value); or French upgrade with the purchase of any nail service ($15 value). If your travel plans include a trip to Orlando, be sure to check out the luxurious Waldorf Astoria. Need an incentive? Members can redeem Bonus Points for Waldorf Astoria gift cards, which can be used toward golf, spa treatments and incredible dining venues. (Sample points conversion: 2,500 for $250 gift card; 14-day advance notice required for processing). Visit hgvclub.com and scroll to the Gift Card banner to learn more about Bonus Point Gift Card offerings, then call a Club Counselor to complete your transaction. Local connections Club Members can take advantage of several exclusive offers at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando. While staying at any of the three Hilton Grand GRANDTIMES 9 Hilt Hi lton on L Lux uxor ux o R es or esor ort r t & Sp S p a,, L u xor xo orr, Eg Egyp g yp pt FEEL SO GOOD YOU FEEL TR ANSFORM POINTS INTO MEMORIES YO U C AN ’ T HELP BU T SH ARE. Hilton H Hi i lton ltt on o n HHonors™ H Ho H ono n rs no rs™ s ™ tta takes a ke kes e s all a l l the al th e work w ork wo r out rk o ut o off using u s in us iing g your yo o urr p poi points. o i nt oi oin n t s. s. Yo u ca ccan a n enjoy e njo en jo o y ex excl c us cl usiv i v e sp iv sspa a tr ttreatments ea a tm m en n ts t iin nL Lu u xor, xo o r, r, E gypt gy g p t,, or pt or You exclusive Luxor, Egypt, iin nh u dr un d ed edss off other o th h er e r ssun un n ny n y llocations ocat oc c at atio io o ns ns w orr ld ldwi w de. wi de e . Tu T u rn urn ny ou o our ur hundreds sunny worldwide. Turn your po p o in n ts t iinto n tto nt o bl b i sf is s ful ull memories m emor em m or o ie e s att H Ho o no nors rss .cc om m . An A n d know kn n ow ow points blissful HHonors.com. And th that h at at w h en he en y yo o u’ u ’ re ea n HH H o or on o s me memb mb b er er,, a bl blis issf is sff ul sstate t a te ta t o when you’re an HHonors member, blissful off m i nd n d is i s just ju u st s t a few f ew wp oii ntt s aw o a ay y. mind points away. ©2010 Hilton HHonors Worldwide • Enroll at HHonors.com • Fall for It Autumn 2011 is the perfect time to set sail through New England and Canada 12 GRANDTIMES Members eager to embark on their next journey on the high seas—or their first cruise—will want to consider the 10-night Canada/New England cruise aboard Holland America’s MS Eurodam, which sets sail on September 20, 2011. It’s the perfect time to take in the fall scenes that the picturesque ports of call have to offer. You’ll start off with an overnight in Quebec City, Quebec, giving you ample time to get acquainted with a stunning city steeped in history and French culture, and then make your way to the gorgeous Gallic village of Saguenay before cruising the shores along the Gulf of St. Lawrence. After a few days in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, and Sydney and Halifax, Nova Scotia, you’ll make your way to Bar Harbor, Maine, to experience idyllic New England in the fall. Stop off in the historic seaport of Gloucester, Massachusetts, and the yachting town of Newport, Rhode Island, before saying goodbye in the city that never sleeps, New York, New York. What better way to take advantage of the wonders of autumn! Accommodations range from interior cabins from 10,000 ClubPoints and/or Bonus Points plus $2,699 to suites from 10,000 ClubPoints and/or Bonus Points plus $6,699; note that any amount of cash/points can be used for cruises. (Rates are per cabin, based on two occupants, including port and government fees, taxes and pre-paid gratuities.) Another option—one with limited availability—is an 11-night journey aboard the recently christened Celebrity Equinox, which sails on May 16, 2011, from Rome, Italy, through the Eastern Mediterranean, including stops in Santorini and Athens, Greece; Istanbul and Kusadasi, Turkey; and Naples, Italy. Call today to check availability; Club Members have already secured more than 60 cabins. For more information about these and hundreds of other cruises, visit hgvclub.com today and select the cruise option under the Partner Perk section. GRANDTIMES 13 Northern Exposure, Southern Adventure Members who cruised through Panama and Alaska saw different sights but share experiences to remember In a survey of Members who boarded the Island Princess in April for a 10-day adventure through the Panama Canal, 100% said they’d register for another ClubPartner Perk Member cruise in the future. And it’s easy to understand why: The cruise featured seven ports of call, including Oranjestad, Aruba (white sands, duty-free shopping), Cartagena, Colombia (colonial artistry, gorgeous beaches), Costa Rica (lush rainforests) and Jamaica (dolphin encounters). Each of the 34 Hilton Grand Vacations Club Members on board had favorite moments, but the ones that rose to the top were an exhilarating trip through the Costa Rican rainforest aboard an aerial tram—the views resulted in photos worthy of a National Geographic spread—and a guided Panama rail journey. The trip aligned perfectly with Member William Barcomb’s 80th birthday, which he celebrated on the night of the private cocktail party for Club Members. Barcomb also commemorated another monumental event on this journey: 55 years of marriage to his wife, Betty. Club Members who cruised through the Panama Canal aboard the Island Princess (right) witnessed the historical and tropical treasures of Aruba, Colombia, Costa Rica and Jamaica (top). Members who sailed through Alaska got up close and personal with wildlife and nature’s wonders. 14 GRANDTIMES The Club Members who explored Alaska this summer also witnessed spectacular sights and shared experiences that will last a lifetime. The 53 Members who opted for the land/sea itinerary met in Fairbanks, where they panned for gold before catching the Wilderness Express train to Denali National Park. During their two days in Denali, Members witnessed the stunning nature scenes and got up close and personal with wildlife, including grazing moose, roaming caribou and a mama bear walking her cubs down the road. But perhaps the most amazing highlight for all was sight of the majestic Mt. McKinley, unobscured by clouds. Once aboard the Millennium, Members met up with the 19 others who opted for the cruise-only portion, where they all relaxed in between their visits to Hubbard Glacier, Juneau and Skagway, Icy Strait and Ketchikan before saying “so long” in Vancouver. And it was indeed just so long, not “goodbye” because many guests made friendships that will continue well beyond the trip. “The Members-only cocktail party on this trip was a truly wonderful event,” says Nan Kleier, senior manager of Club strategic alliances. “It was perhaps one of the best ever. The Members really bonded, and so many were celebrating and sharing special moments with family and friends.” There were honeymooners, a 60th birthday and anniversary celebrations. It was an especially memorable trip for Roberta Phillips, who took her mother MaryJo on a trip they had been planning for several years. “The wonderful thing about our cruises is how many options Members have,” Kleier says. “If you want to relax, there’s a poolside chair and a drink waiting for you. If you want adventure, there’s a trek through nature’s wonders that will leave you spellbound. And, of course, our Members meet other Club Members who become good friends—that’s one cruise perk that’s hard to measure.” Save USD o $10 ff exch your ange online !S inside ee fo detai r ls See what you’ve always wanted to see. Do what you’ve always wanted to do. live inspired with RCI As a Hilton Grand Vacations Club Member, you have the opportunity to book vacations with RCI — the largest vacation exchange network in the world with over 4,000 affiliated resorts. You’ll be able to choose from destinations in the US, Canada and beyond.† Go away for a night, a weekend or longer. Your ClubPoints give you real flexibility, almost any time of the year. Don’t forget, Hilton Grand Vacations Club Members can now book their RCI® vacation online by visiting www.hgvclub.com. †See page 18 GRANDTIMES 15 complete relaxation is within reach These are just a few of the thousands of destinations you may select from... Acapulco A sun-kissed paradise for beach lovers, Acapulco offers a full spectrum of vacation fun. Golfers have their choice of fairways including the Robert Trent Jones-designed course for the 1972 Golf World Cup. Take the family to the San Diego Fort, originally built in 1616 to ward off pirate attacks, or visit CICI sea life and aquatic park for water excitement and swimming with the dolphins. Adventurers line up for bungee jumping and parasailing in La Condesa, and for the ultimate thrill, watch the famous La Quebrada Cliff Divers plunge 130 feet into shallow, roaring surf. Cape Cod, Massachusetts In this paradise of land and sea, ride bicycles along breezy trails lined with sea grass and ocean vistas. Or find your perfect beach, from the quiet bay waters of Brewster to the majestic shoreline of the National seashore. Adventures abound, from whale watching cruises off Hyannis to Jeep rides through the peaceful sand dunes of Truro. Climb Provincetown’s Pilgrim Monument before visiting the colorful cafés and shops of Commercial Street. Let the Cape be your escape!* Cayman Islands This land of sun, surf, and sultry sea breezes is also filled with natural wonders. Cayman Turtle Farm is home to 16,000 sea turtles, and Stingray City is the place to snorkel amid coral reefs, colorful tropical fish and, of course, sting rays. Hikers can discover caves, scan panoramic sea views and enjoy parrot sightings, and sporting visitors enjoy a variety of water sports, three championship golf courses. When the stars come out, delicious dining and glittering nightlife await.* Save $10 USD off the call center price when you confirm your reservation online with RCI! 16 GRANDTIMES Dominican Republic The spirit of the Dominican Republic is captured in its vibrant music, flavorful and exotic cuisine, and year-round sports. One of the largest Caribbean countries, this beautiful island paradise was discovered by Christopher Columbus during his 1492 voyage to the New World. Today you can discover its endless succession of palm-fringed beaches, lush green landscapes and ribbons of mountain waterfalls, plus distinctive shopping, rolling green golf courses, and dazzling island nightlife.* Sedona, Arizona Famous for its clean, high-desert air, abundant sunshine, and seasonably mild temperatures, Sedona is rich in natural wonders, from the magical swimming holes and rock slides of Oak Creek Canyon to the volcanic peaks of Coconino National Forest and the spectacular Red Rocks of Sedona. Discover rich, Native American traditions in everything from the local art to the flavorful cuisine. Whether you’re hiking, golfing or sipping wine at sunset, this desert jewel will capture your heart.* Williamsburg, Virginia Journey into our nation’s past to find 18th century America—in real-time. Ride a horse-drawn carriage or watch the sparks fly as blacksmiths and silversmiths work their trades. Board one of three tall ships at nearby Jamestown Settlement, or visit a Powhatan Indian village from the time of Captain John Smith and Pocahontas. You’ll also love nearby championship golf and theme parks, shopping and gallery-hopping. Make vacation history—at Williamsburg!* Visit www.hgvclub.com GRANDTIMES 17 Now planning an RCI vacation is easier than ever log on and book yours today! ClubPoint Values for RCI Exchange Reservations Your Club membership offers a variety of vacation choices when you exchange your ClubPoints for a stay at an RCI® affiliated resort. Go away for a night, a weekend or longer. Your ClubPoints give you the RCI Vacation Reservations ClubPoints Required Per 7-night Stay freedom to travel your way, almost any time of year.† Here’s how: 3 Bdrm Use the chart to determine how many ClubPoints ClubPoints Required Per Night Midweek (Mon-Thu) Weekend (Fri-Sun) Red Time 5,800 580 1,160 White Time 4,000 400 800 Blue Time 2,900 290 580 Red Time 4,800 480 960 White Time 3,400 340 680 Blue Time 2,400 240 480 Red Time 3,400 340 680 White Time 2,400 240 480 Blue Time 1,700 170 340 Red Time 2,400 240 480 White Time 1,700 170 340 Blue Time 1,200 120 240 you’ll need to plan your vacation. Choose your destination and experience by: • Viewing the RCI affiliated resort 2 Bdrm directory information online when you log on to www.hgvclub.com. • Getting assistance from a Club Counselor to help you find the experience you’re looking for. 1 Bdrm Book your vacation now by calling 1-800-932-4482 or online using these simple steps: • Go to www.hgvclub.com and log in • Navigate to the My Club section • Click and select RCI Resorts Studio • Click and select Reservations • Select Book My Exchange Reservation Visit www.hgvclub.com or call 1-800-932-4482 * RCI does not make any representations regarding the availability of or endorse any of the products or services provided by third parties. † These vacations are limited. Destinations and travel times are subject to availability and confirmed on a first come, first served basis. Offer includes only accommodations and specifically excludes travel costs and other expenses that may be incurred. Taxes, additional fees and charges may apply. All-Inclusive resorts may charge a mandatory all-inclusive fee. Promotional discounts and offers may not apply to all properties. Other restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited by law. Exchange: CST: 2046555-50. Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-26552. Nevada Seller of Travel Registration No. 2002-0793. Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602357907. RCI and related marks are registered trademarks and/or service marks in the United States and internationally. All rights reserved. © 2010 RCI, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. 18 GRANDTIMES Model Behavior Take a Peak Thinking about where to escape for your winter getaway? Go West! The snow cones of summer are long gone, but there’s a different kind of frosty treat you’re sure to enjoy this winter: the luxurious Waldorf Astoria Park City. This 175-room contemporary mountain retreat, which opened last year, is located at the exclusive Canyons Resort, offering you the best of Park City, Utah. Be one of the first to experience the two new ski lifts, including a state-of-the-art “bubble” lift with heating and a dedicated gondola reaching the more than 4,000 acres of skiable terrain—167 runs and 5 bowls—the Canyons Resort offers. After a long day on the slopes, soothe tired muscles with indulgent treatments at the Golden Door Spa, one of only six in the world. And when you’re ready to nosh, feast on the superb offerings at the award-winning Spruce Restaurant. If spring is your thing, plan to thaw out from the long winter on the links at the nearby 18hole championship golf course. In addition to skiing, the resort offers easy access to acres of an all-season recreation area for biking and hiking. Club Members can now enjoy unprecedented access to this resort. Accommodations start from 1,800 Club Points, and you’ll receive a $50 resort credit to use during your stay. To book your travel, go to hgvclub.com and select the Exclusive Vacation Getaway banner for more information. Call a Club Counselor to request your reservation. Being a part of Hilton Grand Vacations Club offers many perks, and there are multiple ways to take advantage of all it offers. Members Michael and Pamela Tapscott, of McLean, Virginia, are living proof of all the ways Club membership can make your dream vacation possible. Pamela shares the story of her family’s recent vacation. “Since joining Hilton Grand Vacations Club in 2001, my family and I have used our ClubPoints in a variety of ways. We’ve cruised the Caribbean and converted points to Hilton HHonors points that we’ve used in London, Virginia Beach and Hawaii. This year we decided to rent an RV with our points. “After flying to Salt Lake City, we traveled to the Grand Tetons and spent three nights in Yellowstone National Park. We saw Old Faithful and other geysers erupt, and we spotted lots of buffalo, moose and a black bear. We even had amazing meals. After we left Yellowstone, we continued on to Cody, Wyoming; Mt. Rushmore; and the Crazy Horse Memorial, where we had the privilege to witness the nightly recognition of our war heroes. We also learned about the efforts to complete the Crazy Horse Memorial and more about the plight of the American Indians. “The week we spent in the RV was a wonderful opportunity to learn geography and history as we plotted our trip together. My husband, son and I worked together as a team to be sure we had a campground for each night and to connect the hookups. Everyone had a job. After we turned in our RV, we spent the final weekend of our vacation at the beautiful Waldorf Astoria Park City during its first week of operation. I was pampered at the Golden Door Spa while my husband and son mountain biked. We were later spoiled with delicious room-service meals. It was the perfect end to our wonderful adventure!” GRANDTIMES 19 High Five A Las Vegas resort celebrates a special anniversary If you haven’t visited the Hilton Grand Vacations Club on the Las Vegas Strip, you’re missing the timeless appeal of a resort filled with the electricity of Las Vegas and graced by the essential elements of relaxation in a world-class getaway. And as the newest Club resort in Las Vegas marks its five-year anniversary this year, there’s never been a better time to visit. Located in the heart of the city, the resort’s “desert deco” design and towering architecture befits the allure (and yes, the sights and sounds) of Vegas. But beyond the glitz of the Strip, you’ll 20 GRANDTIMES find a tranquil home away from home. The resort’s studios and spacious suites are equipped with everything you need, including a Bose sound system and complimentary wireless access, and the on-site deli and grocery store make it easy to take full advantage of your accommodations. This desert oasis also offers several ways to unwind: two heated swimming pools, three whirlpool spas and the Waves Pool and Bar—a guest favorite. Or if you’re in need of more serious relaxation, head to the 4,000-square-foot Grand VacationSpa, a serene haven featuring a host of traditional and innovative services, from massage to aromatherapy. If, like the Club, you’ve got something to celebrate—an anniversary, a birthday or even a wedding—the resort’s special-event planning team can make everything happen. No detail is too small or too much to handle. More Than Tumbling Dice Although Las Vegas is best-known for its highrolling appeal, the other side of the city glamour Bonus Offer Grand VacationSpa is an idyllic setting for superb spa treatments and therapies. Guests will find six treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, steam rooms and locker rooms, luxurious robes, slippers and amenities, as well as complimentary snacks. Ready to indulge? It’s easy with the $250 Spa Gift Card you can receive when redeeming 2,375 Club Bonus Points. For more information, go to hgvclub.com and select the Gift Card Opportunity banner. Call a Club Counselor for assistance with your Bonus Point gift card needs. revolves around outstanding golf, world-class entertainment and exceptional dining. Whether you’re a weekend duffer or a few strokes away from playing in a Pro-Am, Vegas is home to some of the most alluring golf courses in North America. All the big-name designers have put their stamp on courses here, including the Bali Hai Golf Course (ranked one of the “Top 40 Resort Courses in America” by GolfWeek), Desert Pines (ranked one of the best new courses by Golf Digest) and Las Vegas National Golf Club (host to the PGA and LPGA tours). How about a little music and entertainment during your stay? The options cover every musical genre. Favorites include Encore Las Vegas, the House of Blues (hear jazz, blues, reggae and rockabilly every night of the week), the Colosseum at Caesars Palace (resident performers include Bette Midler and Jerry Seinfeld) and the Treasure Island Theatre (the permanent home of Cirque du Soleil). There’s a reason Vegas has become one of the hottest dining towns in the world. Many of the most renowned celebrity chefs—from Mario Batali to Wolfgang Puck—have opened restaurants here in recent years. Regardless of the cuisine or the price point (Vegas is home to bargain restaurants as well as venues fit for high rollers), the Strip has scores of palate-pleasers. Think spots such as Nobu, Table 10, Prime Steakhouse by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and Michael Mina. No matter when you travel here, the celebration begins the minute you enter the city limits—and gets kicked up a notch when you settle into the Club resort on the Strip. Visit hgvclub.com today to plan your Vegas vacation. GRANDTIMES 21 Point of Sale Shop (online) till you drop with Club Bonus Points Are you in the market for a new TV? Maybe some new luggage for your next trip? Or how about some new golf or camera gear? Now, your Bonus Points can help you get them. Club Members in the United States, Canada and Japan can now use Bonus Points to purchase brand-name merchandise through Incentium. Club Members can choose from hundreds of items in the Incentium catalog—from outdoor living and electronics to personal accessories, sporting goods and more. Incentium offers a tremendous selection of high-quality, in-demand items and the convenience of shopping online. Pricing for merchandise starts at 2,500 Club Bonus Points. Currently, Members residing in 22 GRANDTIMES the U.S. or Canada may increase their buying power by adding credit card purchases at the time of checkout. This Points-Plus-Pay feature will be made available to Members residing in Japan in 2011. To get started, visit hgvclub.com, scroll to the Incentium banner to window shop and view the merchandise catalog. Please note that the products can take up to 4 to 6 weeks for delivery; therefore, items will not arrive prior to the holiday season. Once you have selected your merchandise and are ready to redeem your Club Bonus Points, simply contact a Club Counselor to complete the ordering process. Now is the time to explore the world with an exchange vacation. The Great Wall of China Call (800) 932-4482 or go online today to transform your inspirations to reservations. GRANDTIMES 23 Credit tk This is the Life.