Destinations Issue 2, 2013 - Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific
Transcription
Destinations Issue 2, 2013 - Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific
I s s u e 74 W I N T E R 2 0 1 3 MELBOURNE Your New CBD Resort Drive West THE W.A. ROAD TRIP FROM PERTH TO DUNSBOROUGH ESCAPE TO New Zealand YOUR WINTER GUIDE TO OFF THE SLOPES FUN NEW WEBSITE LAUNCHED Turn to page 12 for an insider’s guide Artist’s impression of Wyndham on William contents welcome A s you flick through the pages of this winter issue of Destinations, you will see a lot has been happening in the WorldMark South Pacific Club over the past few months. Expanding your travel horizons even further comes the exciting news of plans for a brand new resort, in one of Australia’s greatest cities – Melbourne! Currently under development, Wyndham on William will be centrally located on the corner of William and Little Bourke Streets, right in the heart of the city. The architecturally designed development will be sleek and modern and will offer a combination of studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments. This project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2014, with 87 apartments planned for transfer into the WorldMark South Pacific Club. With numerous art galleries, museums and live entertainment venues, along with superb dining options and great shopping, Melbourne is truly a cosmopolitan holiday destination. There are many calendar events held throughout the year, around which you can plan a holiday, including the Melbourne Cup, Formula 1 Grand Prix and the Australian Open. You can read about all the exciting plans we have for this new Club resort on page 9. DESTINATIONS MAGAZINE ISSUE 74 CEO & Managing Director: Marketing & WorldMark Services: Owner Marketing & Loyalty Manager: Editor: Deputy Editor: Art Director: Designer: Barry Robinson Mark Potgieter Erin Kimmince Angie Christofis Sarah Meredith Karen Moores Larna Howard © 2013 WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham. All rights reserved. Issue 74 Winter 2013. Destinations Magazine is published quarterly by Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Pty Ltd ACN 090 083 613 for WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham Owners. Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy of information, Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific cannot be held responsible for changes which may occur after press date or for incorrect information provided. Reproduction of any part of this publication without written consent is prohibited. All prices in Destinations Magazine are in Australian dollars unless otherwise stated. Contact details Send your mail, photos & feedback to: mystory-sp@wyn.com or PO Box 7493, Gold Coast MC, QLD 9726, Australia or fax: AU +61 7 5512 8899 WorldMark South Pacific Club Tel: AU 1300 850 160, NZ 0800 850 160, FJ 008 003 263 International: +61 7 5512 8021 Email: owner.reservations@wyn.com For contact details of our respective departments, refer to the back cover of your Resort Guide or online at worldmarksp.com/contactus Terms & Conditions My Story Competition (page 4 & 5) By entering submissions to My Story, participants agree to unrestricted use of their photographs and testimonials without any compensation by WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham and Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Pty Ltd. For ‘Picture It’ and letter contests, please label each photo with your name and Owner Number and include a description of where the photo was taken. All photos must have been taken by an Owner, on a WorldMark South Pacific Club holiday, exchange holiday, or Owner Event. Digitally altered photos will not be eligible for entry. My Story entry letters may be edited for space and clarity. Only one winning entry per person per year will be permitted. Photos will not be returned. 2 WELCOM E Another big announcement featured in this issue is the launch of our new website (page 12). WyndhamAP.com has been designed to reflect all of Wyndham’s operations in the Asia Pacific and encompasses Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific, WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham and Wyndham Hotel Group in the South Pacific. Your new and improved WorldMark South Pacific Club section has been designed to provide you with easier navigation tools and a world of online resources and booking capabilities, right at your fingertips. We hope you will be delighted with the changes. Be sure to read our feature about Wanaka and her stunning sister city, Queenstown on page 15. Plus, a resort hopping, wine tasting adventure in Western Australia awaits you on page 30. As always, this issue brings you plenty of great holiday ideas across your WorldMark South Pacific Club destinations. Until next time... Use of Submissions: By submitting a story and/or photos, the writer agrees to the use of blog post, pictures, names and/ or statements for future promotional purposes without further payment or consideration. By submitting a letter, photo or blog post, unless otherwise advised, each writer also agrees that WorldMark South Pacific Club may use this information or disclose it to other organisations that may use it, in any media for future promotional, marketing & publicity purposes without any further reference, payment or other compensation to the writer. ‘Picture it’ Winner (page 4) Creative Services will award the best photo of each issue a $50 cheque. A yearly winner, chosen from the four issue finalists, will receive one week at a WorldMark South Pacific Club resort of their choice, subject to availability. winning LETTER (page 5) One letter and its accompanying photo will be selected each issue. The winning entry will receive a voucher for three nights accommodation at a WorldMark South Pacific Club resort of their choice, subject to availability. MY STORY BLOG (page 5) All entries to the above two contests are eligible to be posted on the My Story Blog. Privileges by Wyndham (‘Privileges’) is provided by Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Pty Ltd, which is the Developer of the WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham. The benefits bestowed under the Privileges program are provided at the complete discretion of the Developer, which may revoke, modify or add benefits at any time at its discretion without prior notice. Privileges comprises various membership tiers and the benefits obtained through Privileges will vary depending on the tier of membership. Visit worldmarksp.com/privileges for full Terms and Conditions. RCI & ICE (PAGES 24 & 34) Exchanges through RCI and ICE are only available to RCI members or ICE members and may attract fees and charges. Privileges members receive complimentary memberships to both RCI and ICE at no additional cost, subject to them being in good standing. Third Party Advertisements (pages 18, 24 & 34) WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham and Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific accepts no responsibility or liability for third party advertisements published in this issue of Destinations Magazine. All third party advertisers take full responsibility and liability for their advertisements and any legal consequences that may occur as a result of their advertisement or any representations contained therein. Features 09 NEXT STOP: Melbourne CENTRAL 15 Your new resort coming soon in 2014 NEW ZEALAND’S WINTER Wanaka – more than a ski destination 26 LOCAL SECRETS Get insider tips from Owners and staff on some of your favourite holiday destinations 30 RESORT HOPPING Take a Western Australian road trip from Perth to Dunsborough Barry Robinson Regulars Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific 02WELCOME CEO and Managing Director TRAVEL & WORLDMARK PACKAGES (pages 17, 22, 23, 29 & 32) Tel: AU 1300 850 160, NZ 0800 850 160, FJ 008 003 263 International: +61 7 5512 8021, travel.club@wyn.com All Packages: Travel Terms and Conditions apply. Visit worldmarksp.com/conditions. Contact Travel by Wyndham for prices from other capital cities than what is advertised, single supplements, high season surcharges, costs for children or for detailed itineraries. Full details can be obtained by calling or emailing Travel by Wyndham. Rates: All prices are in Australian dollars, per person twin share, unless otherwise stated, based on travelling in low season, inclusive of taxes and exclude visas and insurance. All flights are based on return economy airfares unless otherwise stated. Taxes will vary depending on departure and stopover cities and are subject to change. Packages, flights and tours are subject to availability at the time of reservation. Travel by Wyndham reserves the right to adjust their prices in the event that prices and/or exchange rates fluctuate. Cancellation: Travel by Wyndham reserves the right to withdraw an advertised package at any time and all packages are subject to the Terms and Conditions of the individual airlines and travel providers. Cancellations and amendments will be billed for cash. Club Tours: Minimum numbers must be met on advertised Travel by Wyndham Club Tours for a Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific escort to attend. If numbers fall below the required minimum, pricing on advertised package may alter. Liability: Although WorldMark South Pacific Club makes every effort to ensure that it only arranges the services of professional and safe activity operators for its members and guests, WorldMark South Pacific Club accepts no liability for any loss, injury or damage that a guest or Owner may sustain from whatever cause including activity operator’s own negligence. Members and guests participate in any activity/tour at their own risk and release, discharge and indemnify Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Pty Ltd and its subsidiaries and all other associated entities and personnel from and against all liability in relation to any loss or injury that they may sustain, whether caused by activity operator’s negligence or otherwise. Please note that any packages advertised in conjunction with a stay at WorldMark South Pacific Club resorts (WorldMark Packages) will be subject to the normal Club Guidelines and Regulations covering issues such as booking requirement, season, size of the apartment chosen, days of the week you holiday, and length of stay. Travel by Wyndham Pty Ltd ACN 090 106 077. IATA No: 02356141, QLD TAG1753. PO Box 7493, GCMC, QLD 9726. Barry Robinson CEO & Managing Director Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific 04 MY STORY Share your holiday stories and photos 06 NEWS Find out the latest Club news Club Services 12WYNDHAMAP.COM Introducing your new look Club website 19 SOCIAL BUTTERFLIES 25OWNER EDUCATION How Owners are getting social in cyberspace How Owner Education can help with your holiday planning needs Travel the World 22 29 TRAVEL SPECIALS Your travel plans sorted TRAFALGAR SPECIALS Travel the world like an insider CONTENT S 3 MyStory My Email entries to mystory-sp@wyn.com Share your stories and photos and you could win amazing prizes! Or mail to Destinations South Pacific Photo Contest, PO Box 7493 GCMC QLD 9726 Australia ‘Picture It’ winner WINNING LETTER W W is why we chose to celebrate our 50th Island. family last July. chaotic Christmas period when we received a call from Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Denarau Island. We seized the opportunity to book a weekend in a three- was the best holiday ever, thoroughly friend and grandparents. When we arrived we were impressed and most memorable occasions we have welcome. We were thrilled to be told we were among the first Story Read more stories at myworldmarkstory.com e just wanted to share some thoughts about our wonderful e love Fiji. We love the people, weekend away at the new Wyndham Victorian resort – the resort at Denarau Island WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham at Ramada Phillip and everything else about Fiji. That We were hoping for a quick local getaway just before the wedding anniversary with all our It was our fourth visit to Wyndham advising us of the newest Victorian destination – Ramada Phillip Island, but the first for our family. It bedroom cottage so we could take our 14-year-old daughter, her enjoyed by all… one of the happiest by the beautiful, natural surrounds and the warm, friendly ever experienced. WorldMark Owners to arrive at this new destination and we were Cecil and Joan Denny gift – a penguin with baby ornament souvenir. What a beautiful made to feel like honoured guests. We even received a gorgeous Above: Ramada Phillip Island’s pool. Right: A threebedroom cottage. Below: The famous Penguin Parade. surprise! This truly is a fantastic resort. With two 14-year-olds in tow as well as elderly grandparents, the resort appealed to all of us. The SEND YOUR PHOTOS! ‘Picture It’ winner receives a $50 cheque and goes into the running to win overall best photo of the year and one week at a WorldMark South Pacific Club resort of their choice.* cottage was beautiful, clean and well appointed. The café and Factory. We took a relaxing tour of the Grand Prix museum and courts are immaculate and well-maintained. The walking tracks lookouts. We loved the Churchill Island Heritage Farm, which pizzeria are first class. The facilities such as gym, pools and tennis The Denny family enjoying family fun at the Sabeto mud and hot pools on Denarau Island, Fiji. are scenic and well laid out. The staff are helpful and courteous. The beauty of this resort is that there is much to enjoy at the perfect getaway for families, couples, retirees – everyone! accommodation and service, we all agreed that Phillip Island is a Thanks for a great weekend away. The girls can’t stop talking about it, the grandparents, who are very seasoned travellers, are atty and I had the honour of being invited to a raving about it to everyone and we are so happy that we became 2012. It seemed a shame to only go for the wedding, financial outlay is rewarded by countless priceless memories with of our visit to the USA. As part of the trip, we stayed Phillip Island weekend confirmed to us what a good decision we Orleans and San Diego. We will happily come back to stay at Ramada Phillip Island in also used Credits with Travel Club to help with a times and memories at other WorldMark destinations and Club wedding in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA in September WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham Owners. The initial so using our Credits to assist, we made a big holiday our loved ones, now and for the rest of our lives. This excellent at the WorldMark resorts in San Francisco, New have made towards our family bond and personal happiness. We are Privileges Platinum members, so we the future, but we especially look forward to more wonderful opportunities. number of flights and some other accommodation. In addition, we managed to snare accommodation at the extremely hard to get Manhattan Club, New York through RCI. The USA is a very large country and using our Privileges by Wyndham Credits to stay at a myriad of resorts available made the journey that much more affordable. 4 MY STORY We enjoyed all this activity over just one weekend, yet it was to the fantastic Koala Conservation Centre where we were able P Patty McCarthy pictured at Union Square, San Francisco. made us feel like we had gone back in time. leisurely and relaxing. Coupled with excellent Ramada Resort to see koalas asleep in the trees just a few metres away from us. UNION SQUARE took in the stunning sights at The Nobbies and other ocean one location, but you are also only a few minutes drive away from a range of activities and spectacular sights on the island. We went PHOTO ENTRY: We all enjoyed the fun and tasty delights at the local Chocolate Patty and Terry McCarthy Niela and Phillip White “We were amazed by the spectacular Penguin Parade, a truly memorable experience for all of us” WRITE TO US! The Winning Letter receives a voucher for three nights accommodation at a WorldMark South Pacific Club resort of their choice. Terms and Conditions apply. Refer to page 2. MY STORY 5 news m/ marksp.co Visit worldreporter makemea Cairns Refurbishment Complete! Phillip Island Declared a National Surfing Reserve Twenty-nine apartments have been refreshed and repainted at WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham Cairns. Splashes of bright tropical colours coupled with earthy tones now greet Owners and guests upon check-in to WorldMark Resort Cairns. Luxurious new carpets have been laid and the two and threebedroom apartments have been re-furnished with brand new dining suites, coffee tables, bedside tables, side tables and upholstered bedheads. Soft furnishings have also been replaced with stylish bed runners and scatter cushions. Bathrooms have been revamped with new toilet cisterns, grout, silicon and minor vanity modifications. Layne Beachley, seven-time world surfing champion and Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific’s Ambassador, recently helped launch Victoria’s first National Surfing Reserve on Phillip Island. The reserve comprises four sites along Phillip Island’s coast: Cape Woolamai, Smiths Beach, Summerland and Cat Bay. It is the first of its kind in Victoria and one of just 25 iconic surfing sites in Australia that are ‘cared, shared and preserved’. Several dignitaries celebrated the newest National Surfing Reserve, including Ryan Smith, Victorian Minister for Environment; Brad Farmer, Chair of National Surfing Reserves; and local surfing stars Glyndyn Ringrose and Nikki Van Dyke. Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific supported the event and welcomed the official attendees, as well as surfing great Layne Beachley, who stayed nearby at WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham at Ramada Phillip Island, your newest Club resort. Find out more at surfingreserves.org Updates to Resort Guide A refurbished apartment at WorldMark Resort Cairns. New Singles Facebook Group The Club regularly Looking for new friends and updates the Resort Guide people to travel with? Check section on your website to out your new Facebook group. ensure you have the most Created at the suggestion of current information. Since Owners, the idea of the group the 2013/2014 Resort is for WorldMark South Pacific Guide was published in Club Owners who are single December 2012, some or travel alone, to connect with changes and corrections other Owners. Share interests, have been made to the tips and travel plans and meet following pages: Phillip Island’s National Surfing Reserve Launch. Layne Beachley pictured centre. like-minded people who share • RCI exchange fees your passion for travel! (page 130) Twelve Owners (pictured • Bonus Time rate (page 133) left) attended the first Holiday Friends • Credit Charts for WorldMark Club resorts Escapade to Phillip Island, where they in the US (various) enjoyed a welcome party and visited three The apartments and features listed at your resorts in Rotorua, Coffs Harbour – Treetops and Torquay have also been amended. Please remember that the Associate Room at Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Wanaka (page 79 of the Resort Guide) is only available to Privileges by Wyndham members. Visit worldmarksp.com/resortguide for the full details on these revisions and the most updated information. 6 NE WS Phillip Island parks, including the famous Penguin Parade! Keep an eye out for WorldMarkSP Holiday Friends getaways where you can meet fellow Owners during a variety of group activities at some of your WorldMark South Pacific Club resorts. Join the WorldMarkSP Holiday Friends Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/ WorldMarkSPSingles/ Ramada Phillip Island and Ramada Port Douglas Host Official Opening Celebrations WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham’s newest resorts have both enjoyed official opening celebrations. Ramada Resort Phillip Island was officially opened on 22 April with the Hon. Ken Smith MLA, Member for Bass and Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, in attendance. CEO and Managing Director of Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific, Barry Robinson, hosted the cocktail function, which was also attened by tourism and local government representatives. “Ramada Phillip Island is a fantastic addition to WorldMark South Pacific Club’s resort portfolio, providing Owners with a unique natural setting to enjoy its abundance of wildlife attractions including the Penguin Parade,” said Barry. The official resort opening showcased 32 newly refurbished cottages, revealing a revitalised holiday experience for Owners to enjoy. The resort’s collection of Wyndham Green initiatives were also highlighted, including in-room recycling and water saving measures. Opening celebrations for Ramada Resort Port Douglas will be held on 20 June. The official resort opening celebrations will include a welcome to country by Kuku Yalangi elders and a traditional smoking ceremony. CEO and Managing Director, Barry Robinson; Bass Coast Shire Councillor, Kimberley Brown; and Member for Bass, the Honourable Ken Smith MLA celebrate the official opening of Ramada Phillip Island. WorldMark Resort Pokolbin Hill. Perth and Pokolbin Hill Refurbishments Refurbishment works at Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Perth commenced in April and are scheduled to be completed by mid July. Eighteen deluxe studio rooms will be refreshed with paint, carpets, premium fabrics and furnishings. Existing television cabinets will be demolished and replaced with a more modern, open design featuring stone tops and allowing for larger televisions. Upholstered bed heads with a jet silk shot finish will add to the rooms’ luxurious offerings including deep spa baths and his and hers showers. The two-bedroom standard apartment will also enjoy a face-lift with charcoal wool carpets in the bedrooms and an upgrade to soft furnishings. New scatter cushions, bed runners and luxury deep pile rugs will introduce warm tones of red, grey and tangerine in two-toned textured fabrics. A new sofa, armchairs, fresh paint and artwork of local imagery will also feature. Refurbishment works at WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham Pokolbin Hill are scheduled between mid July and the end of September 2013. Twenty-one studio, one and two-bedroom apartments will be refurbished with a fresh coat of warm white paint accented by burnt orange and chocolate soft furnishings. Wyndham Outram Perth. Brand new chestnut toned wool carpets will be laid throughout, and all apartments will enjoy an upgrade in furniture with contemporary walnut dining suites, coffee tables, side tables and bed heads. Dining chairs will be fully upholstered and new sofas, arm chairs and bed ensembles will be installed. Bathrooms will also receive a freshen up with regrouting of tiles to refresh each space. Artwork depicting the Hunter Valley’s scenic landscapes will adorn the walls. New curtains and roller blinds, caesar stone benchtops and new splashbacks in the kitchens will be eye-catching features. As always, disturbance will be kept to a minumum as we complete these works. Thank you for your patience as we continue to deliver you ‘as new’ resorts. NE WS 7 You could be sA v i Ng h U N d r e d s oN ever y d A y p U r c h As e s ! Photo courtesy of Visions of Victoria If you haven’t already, Login to my Privileges 1 Visit worldmarksp.com/myPrivileges 2 Enter your Owner Number and email address to create a password 3 An email will be sent to your mailbox containing your login details 4 Login and you’re ready to star t enjoying the great savings MELBOURNE Wyndham on William artist impression Photo courtesy of Visions of Victoria Top Selling Items Wyndham on William artist impression 20% off dining up to $25 at over 2,000 restaurants 5% off WIsh gift cards up to 30% off cinema tickets save on appliances, white goods & bedding If you need assIstance, contact your dedIcated PrIvIleges by Wyndham team on: T: AU 1800 850 160 | NZ 0800 850 160 | FJ 008 003 263 W: WyNdhAmAp.com/privileges/coNTAcT-Us *Refer to Privileges by Wyndham on page 2. Photo courtesy of Visions of Victoria Photo courtesy of Visions of Victoria M ELBOURNE CENTR AL 9 next stop: M 12 17 CARLTON GARDENS 13 FLAGSTAFF GARDENS LIAM ST ST EN 07 ST GS T NCE RS T COL LIN ERS R YAR ST T FEDERATION SQUARE ER A RIV 06 04 ST K D FLIN REE S ST DER ION FLIN STAT SOUTHBANK 02 to make Wyndham on William one of the Club’s most popular destinations. Known for its plethora of world-class restaurants, unique boutique shopping and trendy bars and clubs, Melbourne also offers endless cultural and entertainment experiences. Browse one of the 100-plus art galleries, including the iconic National Gallery of Victoria and the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art by day and then catch some laughs at a stand-up comedy show by night. Make a date with Lady Luck and hit the tables at Crown Casino or play it safe and just take in one of the ever-changing live shows at The Palms – Crown’s live entertainment venue. There truly is so much to see and do in Melbourne that one visit to this beautiful city just won’t be enough. If you are travelling with children, hop aboard one of Melbourne’s legendary trams and explore the city sights – it will be an experience they will remember forever. There’s also an abundance of other familyfriendly activities and attractions such as Melbourne Zoo, Luna Park Melbourne and Melbourne Aquarium, all of which are easily accessible by public transport. 2014 will be here before you know it! In the meantime, you can keep up-to-date with all the progress of Wyndham on William at worldmarksp.com/clubnews. Plus, look out for updates in your Destinations Magazine. and we’ve been listening. Wyndham on William artist impression Now you’ll be excited to know that your next Club resort will be located in the heart of Melbourne’s bustling CBD! Wyndham on William artist impression Wyndham on William artist impression Photo courtesy of Visions of Victoria CI E AV RD TREASURY GARDENS AN TY FITZROY GARDENS TM BA RD ARTS PRECINCT ILDA BATMAN PARK ST L ST 11 ETH QUE WIL KIN SPE 14 S ST 15 ING SEL RK AB ELIZ BOU 19 E ST ST ON NST SWA AFF GST FL ATATION S T KE S OUR LT B 08 RUS WYNDHAM ON WILLIAM ST WN ATO CHIN ST ION IBIT EXH E ST LE SDA LON 18 SPR 20 RNE BOU L MELENTRAN C ATIO ST ICK ST SON ST 09 BRUNSW A ST aybe you’ve always dreamed of being trackside at Flemington during the race that stops the nation. Perhaps you’ve been craving the thrills and excitement that only watching the Formula 1 Grand Prix live in person can offer. Or maybe you just want to experience all the beauty and culture this cosmopolitan city has to share. No matter the reason, your dream holiday to Melbourne is about to come true. Due for completion by the end of 2014, Wyndham on William will consist of two adjacent buildings: a 23-storey tower on William Street and a 21-storey building on Little Bourke Street, which have been designed by Bruce Henderson Architects. The sleek and modern development will provide a combination of 531 studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as extensive retail space. The mixed-use property, which is a joint initiative between Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific and Wyndham Hotel Group, will include accommodation for hotel guests as well as the 87 apartments that will be available to Owners through the WorldMark South Pacific Club. Onsite facilities will include 24-hour concierge, gym, restaurant, medical centre, library, conference space, meeting room and spectacular rooftop pool, offering panoramic cityscape views. These stunning amenities SPORTS combined with PRECINCT the prime location are sure NICHOL LYGON ST VICTORI RO B N YOU’VE BEEN ASKING MELBOURNE CENTRAL 6 RN Wyndham on William artist impression SPE NC 10 M ELBOURNE CENTR AL ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS Wyndham on William artist impression Wyndham on William artist impression M ELBOURNE CENTR AL 11 K ER WyndhamAP.com ALL THE FANTASTIC FEATURES FROM THE ORIGINAL worldmark WEBSITE REMAIN, BUT HAVE BEEN RESTRUCTURED FOR A USER-FRIENDLY EXPERIENCE WyndhamAP.com Introducing YOUR ‘new look’ website wyndhamAP.com The new About Us section will serve as a welcome for new and existing Owners and includes information about WorldMark, how Ownership works and the publications available. E xtraordinary holidaymakers deserve an extraordinary website, so we are extremely proud to unveil our new website, wyndhamAP.com The largest hospitality company in the world, Wyndham Worldwide is a multifaceted company offering a diverse range of hospitality services, from Vacation Ownership to vacation exchange and hotel lodging. In the Asia Pacific (AP), Wyndham operates three key business arms: Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific, WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham and Wyndham Hotel Group in the South Pacific. Given our diverse services — and more importantly, our mission to make holiday dreams come true — we have created a central online hub for all of Wyndham’s operations in the Asia Pacific. The complete layout of the WorldMark website has been redesigned to make it easier to navigate and locate information. We hope you enjoy exploring your collection of experiences in a fresh way, and if you are new to our website, you can explore your Ownership and diverse holiday options in ways never done before! The Ownership section will be a must-visit for every Owner. It houses Club News, Privileges, Friends First, Owner Events, Exchange, Enhance Ownership and Gift Certificates. You will also find information about how your Ownership works including accommodation, housekeeping, levies, how to book, payment options and more. The existing Holiday Deals section still offers the latest hot deals, Club Tours and packages, but is presented in a new user-friendly layout. Responsive to smart devices, tablets and smartphones, this website is the new interactive face for Wyndham in the Asia Pacific, and the Owners and customers we serve. Rotating banners with improved, larger photo galleries are a feature, while the easy-to-use functionality, fresh design and intuitive layout provides a superior experience all round. Everything we represent is present on here: our passions, values, services This website is the new interactive face for Wyndham in the Asia Pacific, WorldMark South Pacific Club, the Owners and customers we serve. All the features of My Assistant are still here, but features an advanced expand and collapse function. and of course our resort destinations. Every aspect of this website has been fuelled by your questions, wishes, perspective and knowledge. We invite you to visit the new website at wyndhamAP.com, explore what’s new and join in the conversation. If you haven’t done so already, download the free WorldMark SP app, which includes a free QR code reader, and scan the QR code with your smartphone device to be taken directly to the website. More destination and resort imagery appear on the updated resort pages alongside comprehensive information on accommodation types, resort facilities and local attractions. Don’t worry! 12 W YNDHA M AP.COM Support is a new section that incorporates existing areas of the website – Owner Education and the Online Support Centre – so Owners can get help in one convenient location. worldmarksp.com will still get you to where you need to be! W YNDHA M AP.COM 13 BIG changes are coming New Zealand’s WINTER More thang!just skiin C heck-in to Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Wanaka this winter to discover a destination that offers a whole lot more than just skiing and snowboarding. ...even greater rewards for referring Winter in Wanaka is heralded by the arrival of snow on its lofty peaks, a buzz in the air and a jam-packed events calendar! For many, the arrival of Jack Frost in New Zealand’s Southern Alps means it's time to hit the mountains and enjoy the variety of snowboarding and skiing terrain, not to mention the fun to be had by tubing, snowshoeing, snow mobiling and heli-skiing. But if snow sports are not your passion, this incredible region offers an abundance of options for off the slopes fun. The lakeside village of Wanaka and neighbouring Queenstown are worldrenowned destinations offering some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenery. You will also find Michelin star chefs, award-winning restaurants and a lively après ski culture. Find out what this means to you at worldmarksp.com/refer Call 1800 Friends (1800 374 3637) in AUS or 0800 440 418 in NZ New zealand ’ s winter 15 Getting to anaka’s spectacular backdrop of the Southern Alps, its picture perfect lake and the wilderness of the Mount Aspiring National Park attracts travellers from the world over. In fact, it is so strikingly beautiful and offers such a vast choice of recreational fun, it was recently given the honour of the world’s first protected lifestyle reserve. WANAKA There are a variety of ways to get to Wanaka: air, coach or self-drive. Wanaka has its own airport with daily flights to Christchurch while Queenstown Airport is 45 minutes away. Christchurch and Dunedin Airports are within five hours drive of Wanaka and are linked by good bus services and car rentals. For driving between Queenstown and Wanaka and the ski fields, make sure you carry chains, just in case the road becomes covered in snow. If you are in a rental car, ensure the chains fit before leaving the depot. A few minutes practice is all it takes. HIKING & NATURE To absorb the region properly, leave plenty of time to explore. The National Parks of Mount Aspiring and Fiordland offer some of the world’s most breathtaking vistas. If you are a Lord of the Rings fan you will no doubt recognise the dramatic and jaw dropping scenery, which featured as ‘Middle Earth’ in Peter Jackson’s movies. Mount Aspiring National Park is New Zealand’s third largest World Heritage area. It boasts a chorus of high mountains, glaciers and beautiful river valleys and is a walker’s paradise. Wine tasting in a wine cave. Cruise lakes in Wanaka or Wakatipu. If snow sports are not your passion, there’s an abundance of options for off the slopes fun. Mountain biking, American Express Queenstown Winter Festival. VINEYARDS & CELLAR DOORS Queenstown shopping. Vineyards and cellar doors are plentiful. The much-celebrated Rippon Vineyard, set on the lake’s edge and one of the most picture perfect vineyards in the world, is only a 10-minute walk from Wyndham Wanaka. Its cellar door is the perfect place to sample some Central Otago wine. SHOPPING & DINING A day or evening spent in Queenstown is a must. One of New Zealand’s top visitor destinations, Queenstown is only 45 minutes drive from Wanaka. Queenstown’s famous shopping area offers stylish clothes, unique homewares and the latest ski and outdoor equipment. Its restaurants and bars are renowned the world over. Fergburgers’ burgers are so legendary they have become a tourist attraction in themselves! Queenstown also offers a variety of sophisticated fireside dining. Try the acclaimed Botswana Butchery (in either Queenstown or Wanaka) or Rata, run by Michelin star chef, Josh Emett. Wanaka is a food lover’s dream destination. Take a food and wine tour or soak up some après ski culture with a glühwein or schnapps at one of Wanaka’s cosy winter warming bars. Sledding on the mountain. Queenstown and Wanaka’s winter events calendars are brimming with festivals, sporting events and family activities. 16 new zealand ’ s winter The stylish and food savvy strip of Queenstown. The views from Cardrona ski field. FESTIVALS & EVENTS Queenstown and Wanaka’s winter events calendars are both brimming with festivals, sporting events and family activities. The world famous American Express Queenstown Winter Festival (June 21 to 30) is an annual highlight, attracting thousands of visitors to the 10-day extravaganza. Known as New Zealand’s biggest winter party, there will be ice-skating, all-star snowboarding, dog derbies and a Mardi Gras spectacular. International skiers and snowboarders flock to Queenstown and Wanaka for the abundance of ski races, multi-sport events and the 100% Pure New Zealand Winter Games. Wyndham Wanaka’s outdoor terrace. SNOWSPORTS If a fun-filled day on the slopes does spark your interest, Treble Cone and Cardrona ski fields are both a short drive from Wanaka. Fun and family friendly, Cardrona has a fantastic kids’ program including an on-mountain early childcare centre. Catering for children aged three months to four years old, Cardrona Kindy will take care of the kids while you have fun on the slopes! For children and adults five years and over, Cardrona has a range of ski and snowboard lesson programs designed to cater to all levels of ability and confidence. Treble Cone is the South Island's largest ski area and offers the longest vertical run in New Zealand's Southern Lakes. It is known for its long, uncrowded slopes and spectacular views. However you choose to design your New Zealand holiday, any time spent in this winter wonderland is sure to result in a lifetime of magical memories. If you haven’t yet made it to the spectacular Southern Alps, do yourself a favour and book your next holiday at Wyndham Wanaka. To experience the breathtaking beauty and festive atmosphere of the region in winter, book now! The luxurious Presidential Suite. Winter Wonderland PACKAGE Includes: • 3 nights in a studio at Wyndham Wanaka (Red 2 Season on Sat to Mon night) • 4 days car hire of intermediate size car, pick up and drop off from Queenstown airport • One day OnePassNZ ticket From 7,340 * Credits per person twin share Book now! worldmarksp.com/ holidays *Package may be booked during different season, using different apartment type and for different length of stay. Credit values may vary. Bookings must be made according to the WorldMark South Pacific Club Guidelines and Regulations. DEPOSIT YOUR CREDITS WITH US TODAY AND RETAIN YOUR UNUSED CREDITS FOR TWO WHOLE YEARS! Depositing early greatly improves your chance to land that dream holiday. Deposit your credits with Interval International and explore holiday options in nearly 2,800 resorts in more than 75 countries around the world. Simply log onto IntervalWorld.com to get the most current resort information and request your holiday online or, alternatively, speak to an Interval International Holiday Counsellor. Remember, you now have two whole years to use your credits, so don’t let them expire! So where would you like to go? Magnificent scenery, beautiful tropical sunsets and warm blue sea await you in Thailand. How about visiting Australia’s Gold Coast? Take in great views of the famous beaches, enjoy endless days of sunshine or simply explore the natural beauty of the landscape. To help you plan your holiday, you can watch videos, explore destinations and tour resorts with our latest addition to IntervalWorld.com — Interval HD. For more information, please call an Interval International Holiday Counsellor. Australia 0011-800-4683-7825 New Zealand 00-800-4683-7825 Social Butterflies Not a member of Interval International and want to find out more about us? Have you let your membership expire? Would you like to discuss your benefits? Visit our website at IntervalWorld.com to enrol, renew or for more information. Our Resort Directory is fully featured online and is also available as an iPhone, iPad or Android app. INTERVALWORLD.COM How Owners are getting social in cyberspace I t’s no secret, WorldMark South Pacific Club Owners are getting very social out there on the World Wide Web. In the past few years, the Club has seen a huge shift towards social media as Owners get to know each other, chat, share stories and photos, and connect in new ways with their Club. As a WordMark Owner, if you feel like getting social, you now have everything from a ‘singles’ Facebook group to the WorldMark Champion Forum and travel blogs to choose from. You also have a whole gamut of online support available to assist you with your Vacation Ownership. If you haven’t already sampled what benefits you can gain from connecting with your Club online, we thought we’d take you on a little journey to explore just five of the fun and informative social media platforms available to you. story continues SOCIAL BUT TERFLIE S 19 Your Social Media Platforms GetawaySP For Owners by Owners! getawaysp.com WorldMark Champion Forum champion.worldmarksp.com The WorldMark Champion Forum is a searchable forum for Owners by Owners! WorldMark Champions have been selected to represent the Club because they have utilised WorldMark South Pacific Club effectively, maximising their Ownership and enjoying the many benefits it offers. Hop on the Champion Forum to find questions posted by Owners and answers from employees, Champions and other Owners just like you. Start a conversation and meet the WorldMark Champions or, if you can’t find the information you’re looking for in a previous question, ask your own! CHAMPION SUPPORT STAFF: Sheree W – Travel Club / Mel H – Owner Services Karlee B – Staff Training / Sam L – Owner Education Jacqi H – Owner Marketing and Solutions Lorna G – Customer Service & Loyalty Apivut C – Owner Marketing and Solutions Stacey G – Public Relations My Club blog myclub.worldmarksp.com Get an insider’s perspective and get inspired on the My Club Blog written by WorldMark employees. This entertaining blog has become a must read among WorldMark staff and Owners. BLOG AUTHORS: facebook.com/worldmarkspc With over 11,000 fans, the WorldMark Facebook page is a rapidly growing online community. ‘Like’ the WorldMarkSPC Facebook page and stay connected with all that’s happening in your Club. Be the first to know about travel deals, WorldMark holidays, resort updates, Club news and more! The WorldMark Facebook page has become a very popular online resource with Owners gaining valuable inside information from each other. Facebook enables you to immediately connect with your Club and is constantly monitored by the social media team. Note: The social media team does sleep, but most of the time you will be delighted by their rapid response (they are a little bit addicted to their iPads!) and can usually expect an answer within a few hours, if not immediately. FACEBOOK SUPPORT STAFF: Apivut C – Owner Marketing and Solutions / Erin K – Owner Marketing and Solutions / Jackie K – Owner Education Jacqi H – Owner Marketing and Solutions GETAWAYSP SUPPORT STAFF: pinterest.com/worldmarksp Pinterest is a virtual pinboard or ‘vision board’. It is a great place to view even more photos of your resorts and WorldMark destinations. Create a pinboard of your dream WorldMark holidays and post your WorldMark holiday snaps. PINTEREST SUPPORT STAFF: Ilona C / Jacqi H / Apivut C – Owner Marketing and Solutions Ilona C / Apivut C – Owner Marketing and Solutions Our Service Promise to You H ere at Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific, our aim is to offer the best service, support and holiday inspiration wherever and whenever it is most convenient for you, our WorldMark Owners. That’s why we have a dedicated social media team available around the clock to answer queries and provide you with rapid responses. Your social media team come from different areas of Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific and all offer different aspects of specialised expertise, product knowledge and support. Most social media enquiries are directed to the Customer Service & Loyalty team, led by Mel H. This team is commited to providing Owners with outstanding service and Ownership support by ensuring that your questions are answered quickly and knowledgeably. Your Social Media TEAM My Story myworldmarkstory.com Be sure to check out the treasury of Owner tips and memories that is the My Story blog. See what fellow Owners get up to on their holidays by reading entertaining and inspiring stories written by WorldMark Owners. Not sure where to go next? Spend five minutes scrolling through the pages of My Story and your list of must-see places will soon be as long as your arm. Why not spark that daydream for your fellow Owners by sharing your WorldMark holiday story and destination tips? Remember, every entry on the My Story blog is in the running to win Destinations Magazine’s winning letter or ‘Picture It’ competition. Post a story and some photos and the next winner could be you! Wy ndh a mA P.co m Ilona C – Travel adventures Erin K – Balancing your lifestyle Jackie K – Owner tips Jacqi H – Family holidays Facebook From things to see and do, local dining recommendations, a local events calendar and useful weather details, GetawaySP is brimming with information about WorldMark South Pacific Club’s destinations. Have a favourite Italian restaurant on the Gold Coast? Recommend it for other Owners for when they visit next. Not sure where to take the kids in Coffs Harbour? GetawaySP has the answer! Pinterest My Story Authors: WorldMark Owners MY STORY SUPPORT STAFF: Ilona C – Owner Marketing and Solutions All of these social media sites are accessible at www.worldmarksp.com/myassistant 20 SO CIAL BUT TERFLIE S If you haven’t done so already, download the free WorldMark SP app, which includes a free QR code reader, and scan the QR codes with your smartphone device to be taken directly to each website. Latest Travel Specials FROM YOUR EXCLUSIVE OWNERS-ONLY TRAVEL AGENTS... New York, New York Discover the exciting ‘Big Apple’! Koh Samui Vibrant Vietnam Disneyland Includes a 3-night stopover in Bangkok. Culture, colour and charm – Vietnam has it all! Get ready for some serious fun at Disney California Adventure Park and Disneyland! FROM au d 2,125* $ PP T WIN S HARE FROM au d 2,829* $ PP T WIN S HARE Includes: • Return economy airfares and taxes ex Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane/Perth • Private transfers in Hanoi • 3 nights at Sheraton Hanoi in an executive room with breakfast • Domestic economy airfares in Vietnam • 3 nights at Sheraton Hotel Resort and Spa Nha Trang in a deluxe ocean view room with breakfast • Private transfers in Saigon • 3 nights at the Hotel Majestic Saigon in a colonial pool deluxe room with breakfast FROM au Includes: • Return economy airfares and taxes ex Sydney/Brisbane/Melbourne/Perth • 2 nights at the Marina Mandarin Singapore with breakfast and private car transfers • 15-night cruise onboard Azamara Journey, cruising from Singapore to Hong Kong in an ocean view stateroom • All meals, standard spirits/beer/wines, gratuities, bottled water, soft drinks, speciality tea and coffee onboard and shuttle service to and from ports • 2 nights at the Harbour Grand Kowloon, Hong Kong with breakfast and private car transfers Must book and pay in full by 30 June 2013. TWIN SHARE PP FROM AU D 4,409* +3,000 $ * d PP T WIN S HARE S HARE d 1,925* $ PP T WIN S HARE Includes: • Return economy airfares and taxes ex Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane • Return transfers from Los Angeles Airport to hotel • 5 nights at Hotel Menage, Anaheim in a run of house room • BONUS stay 5 nights, pay for only 4 nights • 3-day Disney Park Hopper Pass including 1 BONUS Magic Morning entry into a designated theme park Includes: • Return economy airfares and taxes ex Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane • 5 nights at the Hotel Beacon in a standard room • Return airport transfers • 48 hours all loops hop-on hop-off pass including Statue of Liberty m/ marksp.co Visit worldreporter makemea 22 T R AVEL SPECIAL S Travel in 2014 at 2013 prices... 6,950 * FROM au Includes: • Return economy airfares and taxes ex Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane/Perth • Return private car transfers in Bangkok and Koh Samui • 3 nights at the Novotel Ploenchit Sukhumvit, Bangkok, in a superior room • BONUS stay 3 nights, pay for only 2 nights in Bangkok • 8 nights at the Imperial Boat House Resort in Koh Samui in a Boat Suite • BONUS stay 8 nights, pay for only 4 nights in Koh Samui • Breakfast daily Immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s experiences and destinations. FROM au d PP T WIN Imperial Russia Boutique River Cruise $ 2,379* $ Singapore to Hong Kong Fly/Cruise *Terms and Conditions apply. Refer to page 2. Offers subject to availability. All advertised prices are twin share. For single travellers, a single supplement may apply. Flights from departure points other than those listed in the offers may incur additional charges. Koh Samui is valid for travel between 14 November – 4 December 2013. Vibrant Vietnam is valid for travel between 10 – 31 October 2013, and seasonal surcharges may apply. Disneyland is valid for travel between 1 – 28 November 2013, and image is courtesy of Disney. New York New York is valid for departures between 1 November – 9 December 2013, and seasonal surcharges may apply. Singapore to Hong Kong Fly/Cruise is based on departure on 4 January 2014. Imperial Russia Boutique River Cruise is based on departure on 25 September 2014. Includes: • 13-day Uniworld Boutique River Cruise from St Petersburg to Moscow in category 6 stateroom • All meals onboard including Captain’s Gala and farewell dinners • Complimentary soft drinks during lunch • Complimentary fine wine, beer and soft drinks during dinner • Bottled water replenished daily in your stateroom • 24-hour speciality tea and coffee station • 12 shore excursions hosted by Englishspeaking experts • Onboard local entertainment and signature lectures CALL 1300 850 160 or email travel.club@wyn.com For only Your RCI Escape 3000* credits Book within 30 days check in With Instant Exchange you could be enjoying a quick escape to beautiful beaches, the countryside or somewhere exhilarating and new! BEVERLY HILLS CLUB Canary Islands SPAIN (C898) Trevor and Robyn Jesser, from Everton Park, Queensland Had great pleasure in presenting this fantastic holiday in Spain to their son and his partner as a gift. 7 DAYS FOR 3000* CREDITS WHERE TO NEXT? It’s midway through the year already! Have you booked your WorldMark holidays yet? D on’t know where to go or how to get KORORA BAY VILLAGE, NSW 0834 Ian and Lisbeth Maunder from Parkwood, Queensland Have used RCI Instant Exchange to stay at this award winning resort located where the mountains meet the sea at Coffs Harbour. 7 DAYS FOR 3000* CREDITS PATONG RESORT HOTEL, THAILAND 4344 Anita Parker from Highland Park, Queensland Seized the chance to travel to Phuket through RCI Instant Exchange. Anita’s accommodation was at Patong Beach, the most lively and favorite beach for visitors. 7 DAYS FOR 3000* CREDITS date. RCI is only available to Privileges by Wyndham members (at no additional cost and subject to them being in good standing) or RCI members. Exchanging through RCI may attract fees and charges. there? Attending an Owner Education session will help. Don’t miss out on taking the holidays you already own! Get inspired with great holiday ideas, learn how to use your Vacation Credits and maximise your Ownership at an Owner Education Session near you. Owner Education is just Ownership support and a free information service designed to help you understand your Ownership, help you use your Ownership more often and support you throughout your lifetime with the Club. Remember, you have many choices when it comes to Owner Education, from Face-to-Face sessions held in locations all over Australia and New Zealand, to Online Conference Calls and DVDs you can watch at home. To see all your Owner Education options visit worldmarksp.com/education/workshops Don’t miss out on taking the holidays you already own! T he beauty of face-to-face, group Owner Education events is that you can meet and mingle with other Owners and share tips and information. These sessions are constantly updated with changing information from your Club, so even if you have been before or you are a first-timer, Owner Education really goes a long way to help you get the most out of your Club experiences. If you have never been to an Owner Education session, chances are you are missing out on some fundamentals to understanding your Ownership. Book into a session today: Call (AUS) 1300 850 160 (NZ) 0800 850 160 or visit worldmarksp.com/education To book your next holiday call 1300 737 667 AU or 0800 737 667 NZ OWNER EDUC ATION 25 PORT DOUGLAS QUEENSLAND local secrets Best breakfast? Tree Bar and Grill buffet breakfast with all-you-can-eat pancakes for the kids! Did you know? The Daintree Rainforest Like a sneak preview of your WorldMark Destinations? is over 135 million years old. That makes it 40 million years older than the Amazon! Let us give you our best tips from Owners and employees! For even more insider knowledge visit getawaysp.com I love Port Douglas because… The warm temperatures make it feel like summer all year round and we have the reef and the rainforest right in our backyard! Best kept secret: Cassowary Falls in the Daintree Rainforest has great swimming and you may even see some freshwater turtles! COFFS HARBOUR PORT DOUGLAS RALEIGH WINERY TIN SHED Recommended by WorldMark Owner Phyllis H “Fifteen minutes south of Coffs Harbour, at this award-winning winery, you can relax with a tasty cheese platter on the riverside deck with spectacular mountain views.” “A relaxed place to eat with panoramic views over Dickson Inlet.” Best breakfast? Split Café and Espresso Bar at Sawtell is a local favourite. Try the risotto with dried fruit compote and natural yoghurt, and the banana hotcakes with lashings of local honey, sour cream and toasted walnuts. Did you know? Coffs Harbour was originally known as Korff’s Harbour after Captain John Korff, who sheltered there in 1847. The name was misspelled on Sydney survey records and it has remained Coffs Harbour to this day. Best kept secret… Kangaroo Walk at Emerald Beach, located 15 kilometres north of Coffs Harbour. As the name suggests, Kangaroo Walk is a coastal walking trail with resident kangaroos. Where to Stay? 26 LO C AL SECRE T S PerUgino Italian Restaurant Recommended by WorldMark Owner Rosemary J COFFS HARBOUR NEW SOUTH WALES Best bar: Watergate Restaurant and PERTH Recommended by WorldMark Owners Phil and Sandy T Where to Stay? Anna Cribb - Front Office & Reservations Manager Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific at Ramada Port Douglas Lounge Bar is a great place to relax and try the best cocktails in town. Best place for dinner: Salsa Bar and Grill. Fantastic food and great atmosphere. Don’t forget to try the red claw linguine. Port Douglas Best buy: A souvenir from the local Sunday Markets, from unique jewellery and clothes to art pieces and handmade toys. Must-do: A sailing trip to the Low Isles. Explore the island, snorkel with green turtles and swim with reef sharks! Wildlife Habitat The kids will love… Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. Be sure to time it so you catch both the crocodile show and croc feeding boat trip! Ramada Port Douglas 316 Port Douglas Road, Port Douglas QLD Great Barrier Reef “A wonderful dining experience at Perugino Italian Restaurant (within easy walking distance from the resort). Fabulous food, elegant surroundings and the most professional staff.” PERTH WESTERN AUSTRALIA Gary Collard Resort Manager Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Coffs Harbour – Treetops Best breakfast? Nothing beats the Best bar: Fiasco at the entrance to the jetty. Best place for dinner: Latitude 30 Jetty. Must-do: Skywalk at Dorrigo. Drive through Bruxner Park along Bucca Road and remember to turn off to see the Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout. Don’t miss the Butterfly House, Dolphin Marine Magic and Ulong rainforest drive. Insider’s tip: Visit Bellingen Markets, Coffs r Harbou Did you know? That Kings Park is one of the biggest inner city parks in the world, was the first to be designated for public use in Australia and enjoys visitor volumes of about six million people every year. Latitude 30 Jetty held every third Saturday. The kids will love: Tabatinga if they are seven and under, the Butterfly House and Dolphin Marine Magic. The Big Banana offers ice skating and water slides in summer. Wyndham Coffs Harbour – Treetops Pacific Bay Resort Precinct, 6 Resort Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW Outram Big Breakfast. It includes a generous serving of freshly cooked mushrooms, beans, eggs cooked to your liking, sausages, bacon and sourdough toast. An Outram Big Breakfast assures a great start to your day. Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Perth Best place for dinner: Royal India has become an institution in Perth attracting patrons from members of Parliament to movie stars. Best kept secret: An underground bar Best bar: Brown Fox is a sophisticated bar The kids will love… To explore, climb rocks and ropes, wade through creeks, build cubbies and get dirty at the recently opened Rio Tinto Naturescape. Or better still have a day of discovery at the nearby SciTech. and entertainment venue called Bar Open in Northbridge, this place is only accessible through the back of William Street and offers arcade games as well. Where to Stay? Perth Must-do: Rottnest Island; a place like no other, experience the world’s finest beaches and bays, in the only car free zone in Perth. Insider’s tip: Free Central Area Transit (CAT) buses are the best, quickest and stress free way to see Perth, avoid the cost of taxis and the hassles of city driving by catching a CAT to almost all corners of the city. with great old-world charm on Outram Street (within walking distance of the hotel)! Kangaroo Walk, Emerald Beach Isaiah Eringo Front Office Team Leader Wyndham Outram Perth 32 Outram Street, West Perth WA Rottnest Island Brown Fox LOC AL SECRE T S 27 From crashing to cruising.. A few words from Owner, Alan Marriott, as shared on our Owner Forum... I t took me a couple of years before I used my Credits for the first time. In reality I was my own worst enemy… not looking beyond the four-month calendar and then clicking out of the website, not having found exactly what I wanted. It was not until I went to my first Owner Education session that my ears heard and eyes opened to how better to use the tools we have. It is like trying to drive a vehicle for the first time. If someone shows you the basics first, it becomes so much easier to develop skills and understanding as opposed to just crashing and blaming the vehicle. Yep, I crashed in those early years. If you haven’t been to an Owner Education session, that would be the first step. In that room will be Owners who have not only been in your position but persevered and between them know all the tricks to maximise value from their Ownership. Secondly, if your first preference is not available this time around, it is possible to go on a waitlist. Some of those long-term bookings do cancel. So let the system work for you! In the meantime, take the opportunity to try out a different resort, as it may be a pleasant surprise. If your holiday plans are not exactly known, still make the booking. Once it is locked in, it is possible to move it back or forward a few days (subject to availability) before the final date to cancel or amend. Reservations can always help you with that. Alan Marriott WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham Owner Since 2007 Call (AUS) 1300 850 160 (NZ) 0800 850 160 or visit worldmarksp.com/education Latest Trafalgar Specials Travel the world like an insider CALL 1300 850 160 or EMAIL travel.club@wyn.com Christmas in New York Best of Italy Experience a Christmas like never before! TWIN SH A RE PP FR The ultimate tour of Italy. 6,398* +3,000 * $ OM Includes: • Return economy airfares and taxes ex Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane • 10 nights first class accommodation in twin rooms with private facilities • Enjoy a special Christmas day lunch at one of New York’s most iconic hotels • Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of New York’s finest restaurants • Air-conditioned coach travel • Professional travel director • Meals and sightseeing as per Trafalgar’s Christmas in New York itinerary European Whirl T WIN SHAR 3,62 * 8 + 3,0 00 * $ E PP F ROM This journey takes you through Europe’s most impressive cities! TWIN SHARE PP FROM * 3,938* +3,000 $ Includes: • Return economy airfares and taxes ex Sydney/Melbourne/ Brisbane/Perth • 12 nights first class accommodation in twin rooms with private facilities • Trafalgar’s ‘Be My Guest’ lunch at a farm near Florence • Trafalgar’s ‘Hidden Treasure’ experience • Air-conditioned coach travel • Professional travel director • Meals as per Trafalgar’s Best of Italy itinerary Includes: • Return economy airfares and taxes ex Sydney/Melbourne/Brisbane/Perth • 1 night first class accommodation pre tour in London • 11 nights first class accommodation in twin rooms with private facilities • Trafalgar’s ‘Hidden Treasure’ experience • Air-conditioned coach travel • Eurostar high-speed train from London to Brussels • Professional travel director • Meals as per Trafalgar’s European Whirl itinerary Owner Education Just Ownership Support *Terms and Conditions apply. Refer to page 2. Offers subject to availability. All advertised prices are twin share. For single travellers, a single supplement may apply. Flights from departure points other than those listed in the offers may incur additional charges. Christmas in New York based on tour departure on 17 December 2013 and must be booked and paid in full by 30 June 2013. Best of Italy based on tour departure on 9 November 2013 and must be booked by 31 July 2013, with two people travelling together on the entire itinerary. European Whirl based on tour departure on 5 November 2013 and must be booked by 31 July 2013, with two people travelling together on the entire itinerary. T R AFALGAR SPECIAL S 29 Resort Hopping WESTERN AUSTRALIA! Fremantle Harbour. The treetop walk in Kings Park, Perth. Vasse Felix Restaurant, Margaret River. Perth TO Dunsborough Words by Angie Christofis G / m marksp.co Visit worldreporter makemea 30 resort hopping Enjoy the sunset over the Indian Ocean. Photography courtesy of Tourism Western Australia. ive me a chance to travel and my bags are packed before you can say “go”, so when I recently spotted loads of cheap flights to Perth, I seized the chance to explore Australia’s spectacular west coast and discovered resort hopping is the way to go! resort hopping 31 Perth After touching down in Perth, I picked up my hire car and was delighted to check-in to the very stylish, luxury boutique hotel, Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Perth. Each hotel room has its own deep spa bath (the city’s largest), while premium furnishings and linens complement an espresso and cream colour scheme. I stretched out on my heavenly pillow top bed, ordered room service and drifted off into a deep happy sleep. The next morning I hopped on the Perth Sightseeing Bus, which picked me up from right outside the hotel doors! We visited Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, Northbridge, Crown Perth Complex, The WACA, The Bell Tower, The Perth Mint, Swan River, Museum and Art Gallery of Western Australia and more. What a great way to see the city! There are many different types of tours on offer. You can check them out at citysightseeingperth.com. My tour took around 90 minutes, but you can also use the hop-on hop-off facility and make a whole day of it. Fremantle pitstop In the afternoon I took the 30-minute drive to Fremantle or “Freo” as it is known by the locals. A charming and lively port city, it is recognised as the best-preserved 19th Century seaport in the world. I made the most of the sunshine by strolling through Fremantle’s warren of historic streets. There were plenty of places to people-watch and enjoy a coffee amidst lively street entertainment. I gave my wallet a workout at fabulous bookshops and browsed some great boutiques scattered along South Terrace. Then I headed to the wharf to visit the new Western Australian Maritime Museum, where famous boats are suspended from the ceiling, including Australia II, the winged-keel yacht that shot to fame after winning the America’s Cup in 1983. AS IT IS KNOWN BY THE LOCALS, “IS’FREO’ A CHARMING AND LIVELY PORT CITY. “ To complete what was a perfect day, I feasted on fish and chips at Fremantle’s Fishing Boat Harbour and then headed back for one more cosy night at Wyndham Outram Perth. Busselton pitstop On my second day I took the easy three-hour drive south to Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Dunsborough. On the way, I stopped into Bussleton. Twenty minutes north of Dunsborough, this picture perfect seaside town is famous for its iconic landmark, the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. You can stroll along the 1.8-kilometre length of it or take the Jetty Train! Beneath the water, incredible marine life can be viewed from the Underwater Observatory. I took the train, and as we chugged along, I was lucky enough to see dolphins frolicking in the Indian Ocean just a few metres away! Dunsborough With the sheltered turquoise waters of Geographe Bay as its front yard and a world-class winery right across the road, Wyndham Resort & Spa Dunsbrough is in a sensational location. The resort’s superb facilities, from Escape Day Spa to the swimming pool, tennis courts and award-winning restaurant could keep you entertained all holiday. But a short scenic drive around Dunsborough brings you to secluded coves with sugar white sand beaches, cobalt blue water and pretty coastal trails. After exploring the scenery, I treated myself to a blissful massage at the resort’s day spa. Afterwards, I took my massage therapist’s advice and continued my ‘treatment’ across the road where the friendly folk at Flametree Wines greeted me with a tipple of ‘antioxidising’ red. Top this off with a succulent steak at Toby’s Restaurant and I plopped into bed feeling ridiculously satisfied with Western Australia. Some wineries offer picnic hampers so you can enjoy the sunshine. Karri Forest at Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. Fremantle Markets, which is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, are a must-do experience. The winery restaurants, with their flickering “fireplaces and über cool architecture, offer the perfect excuse for a lazy lunch. “ Margaret River Region Beyond Dunsborough, the Margaret River region invites you to visit your choice of 100 plus world famous wineries and boutique breweries. I could have driven myself, but then I would not have been able to sample buttery chardonnays, robust cabernets, fruit-intense semillons and refreshing fine ales! So I had someone drive me. There are oodles of winery tours that also take in some of the region’s best attractions. Reception staff can organise a tour for you (either before or during your stay). The winery restaurants, with their flickering fireplaces and über cool architecture, offer the perfect excuse for a lazy lunch. Many tours include a winery lunch as a highlight of the day. After stopping at spectacular Ngilgi Cave, our tour guide took us to the restaurant at Vasse Felix vineyard, where we indulged in incredible food. Throughout the tour we also stopped to sample other indulgences including homemade ice creams, fudge and chocolate, plump juicy olives and locally made cheeses. Wyndham Outram Perth hotel room. ... secluded coves with sugar white sand pitstop beaches, cobalt blue water and pretty coastal trailS. Newport Hotel, Fremantle. Yallingup Beach. Busselton Jetty. Perth City skyline from Kings Park. HOLIDAY PACKAGE with winery tour! Includes: • 3 nights in a hotel room at Wyndham Outram Perth (Red 5 Season) Western Australian Maritime Museum. • 4 nights in a studio room at Wyndham Resort & Spa Dunsborough (Red 6 Season) • Full day Margaret River winery tour From 6,450* Credits per person twin share Book now! worldmarksp.com/hotdeals *Terms and Conditions apply. Subject to availability. Package may be booked during a different season, utilising a different apartment type or for more or less nights. Credit values may vary. Bookings must be made according to the WorldMark South Pacific Club Guidelines and Regulations. 32 resort hopping Many of Margaret River’s pretty vineyards also have acclaimed restaurants, art galleries and wine tasting at their cellar doors. Fireside dining Margaret River style. Vasse Felix Restaurant, Margaret River Region 14 Night Transatlantic cruise S INCLUSION • All meals onboard 14 Night Southeast Asia cruise S INCLUSION• Stateroom with en suite, TV, (classic, contemporary or casual menu selections) • Complimentary 24 hour room service • Dedicated Stateroom attendant • Production shows, guest entertainers, bar’s, lounges, casino • Fitness Centre, pools and spa • Port charges and government taxes CELEBRITY CRUISES, Celebrity Equinox 14 Night Transatlantic cruise between Barcelona and Fort Lauderdale Selected departure in November 2013 Inside Stateroom (Cat 10) Twin Share NOW FROM $1178* AU PP plus 6000^ Privileges Qualified Credits telephone plus a dedicated stateroom attendant • All meals onboard from fine dining to pizzerias • Spectacular Broadway shows and live entertainment • Kids and Teens programmes • Fitness Centre, pools & spa • Port charges and government taxes ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL, Voyager of the Seas 14 Night Southeast Asia to Australia cruise NOW between Singapore and Sydney FROM Selected departure in October 2013 $2544*AU PP plus Balcony Stateroom (Cat D3) Twin Share 6000^ Privileges Qualified Credits 14 Night Magnificent Europe River Cruise WYNNIE AND FRIENDS Free New Activity Pack! A n exciting new children’s activity has recently been launched across selected WorldMark South Pacific Club resorts. This new free activity pack will be given to children upon check-in. Wynnie and Friends’ Green Adventure, has expanded on the awardwinning Wynnie the Wallaby’s Green Adventure, which was launched across resorts in 2011. Wynnie and Friends takes children on a journey across the South Pacific and promotes a sense of caring and responsibility for the environment. Children are educated on the importance of reducing pollution, and water and energy consumption, as well as recycling, reusing and regenerating, through stories of Wyndham Green initiatives at our resorts in Fiji and New Zealand. The book introduces two new characters to the Wyndham Green team, Koru the Kiwi and Tiko the Turtle. Look out for the new children’s activity pack on your next WorldMark holiday. AVALON WATERWAYS, Vista, Visionary, Expression, NOW Tranquillity and Panorama FROM 14 Nights Magnificent Europe River Cruise *AU $5431 PP plus between Amsterdam and Budapest 6000^ Privileges Qualified Selected departures from May to October 2013 Credits Indigo Deck outside Stateroom (Cat D) Twin Share • Welcome reception • All meals onboard • Stateroom attendant • Daily guided sightseeing 7 Night Fiji Islands cruise S INCLUSION • All meals (buffet and a la carte) Wynnie • Sparkling wine with breakfast, soft drinks with lunch and beer & wine with dinner S INCLUSION• Stateroom with en suite, TV, • Guided island, village and school tours • Snorkelling and glass bottom boat tours • Tropical island lovo feast and kava ceremony • Swimming pool, sauna and 2 sundeck Jacuzzis • Friendly Fijian crew with a wealth of local knowledge CAPTAIN COOK, MV Reef Endeavour 7 Night Fiji Islands cruise round trip Port Denarau Selected departures from January to March 2014 Outside Stateroom Twin Share NOW FROM $1442* AU PP plus 6000^ Privileges Qualified Credits Koru 17 Night Australia/NZ cruise It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3... SELECT, SEARCH and BOOK! For more information, call one our experienced ICE Cruises consultants on AU 1300 723 199 or NZ 0800 699 012 www.icecruises.com.au ^Privileges by Wyndham is provided by Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific ACN 090 083 613 as the developer of the WorldMark South Pacific Club. Please see http://www.worldmarksp.com/privileges for further details. All deals are based on the Privileges Platinum member level and redemption of up to 20000 Privileges Qualified Credits. * Terms and conditions apply and are located at www.icecruises.com.au/terms.php. Prices are correct at the time of printing. Subject to availability. All travel is facilitated through ‘Our Vacation Centre Pty Ltd’ ABN No: 54 105 542 176 Travel License No: 3008099 TCF:4/8461. FOR WINTER! prefer an endless summer, so in the wintertime I head up to Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Your Club accommodation at Ramada Marcoola Beach and WorldMark South Pacific Club by Wyndham Golden Beach are both ideally placed to enjoy an action-packed holiday in Queensland. Whenever I am on the Sunshine Coast, I always telephone plus a dedicated stateroom attendant • All meals onboard from fine dining to pizzerias • Spectacular shows and live entertainment • Wine tastings, dance classes, trivia contests, games etc • Port charges and government taxes ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL, Radiance of the Seas 17 Night Australia’s Southern Coast NOW and New Zealand cruise FROM between Fremantle and Sydney *AU $2641 PP plus Selected departure in November 2013 6000^ Privileges Qualified Balcony Stateroom (Cat E3) Twin Share Credits Noosa Heads Surf Club. Layne’s Pick I ko • Baking demonstration, Beer tasting • Port charges and government taxes Alexandria Bay. queensland’s sunshine coast Ti take a day trip to Noosa. A must-do is a hike through the Noosa National Park, where there is a truly spectacular coastal walk. There are koalas dozing in the trees and in the winter you can often spot whales and dolphins off the headlands. I like to walk the Wy INCLUSIONS Stunning Noosa Heads. nnie’s coastal track past Boiling Pot to Tea Tree Bay, Dolphin Point and Granite Bay. If you feel like a longer walk On your next WorldMark adventure, opt for hiring a bike instead of a car. Not only will this cut down on fuel consumption, but it will be a fun and affordable way to fully immerse yourself in the fabulous attractions of the region. you can continue all the way to Alexandria Bay. Take water and snacks with you, and a camera! Once you’ve worked up your appetite, take your pick for lunch at one of Noosa’s fantastic restaurants. For casual yummy food, the Surf Club boasts an unbeatable location, right on the beach with knockout views of Noosa’s ‘first point’ right hand break. La yne Be a chle y Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Ambassador and seven-time World Surfing Champion y& d r t n E Free h Pr ovide Lunc WorldMark Travel & Service Join the fun and see just how far holidays with WorldMark can take you! Whether you’re dreaming of an Australian outback adventure or a luxury European cruise, WorldMark can make it happen for you. Come along to this year’s WorldMark Travel & Service Expos in Brisbane and Perth and meet with your friendly Club consultants from a range of departments including Travel Club, Owner Services, Resorts Team and Owner Education. There will even be representatives from our exclusive travel suppliers with PERTH: Crown Perth Saturday 19 October 2013, 9am – 3pm some great travel deals, just for you. BRISBANE: Stay tuned for details... Book now at worldmarksp.com/expo or phone 1300 850 160 for more info With free giveaways throughout the day, it will be fun as well as informative!