NEWH - April 2004 - (Page 51)

the new direction for timeshares in Europe... “Fractional ownership is a blend of all the best aspects of owning a second home, fivestar hotel service,... private club membership...” - Eurobusiness July 2003 The new concept of ‘High End Fractionals’ has been created to make a form of timesharing attractive to wealthy buyers. This niche sector has developed out of and beyond the mass of timesharing conglomerates to achieve an understated, exclusive residential complex designed for the top end of the market. by: Sue Lamont, Lamont Interiors The global brands, such as Hilton, Four Seasons and Marriott, with their significant reputations, have improved the overall image of timeshare and are now changing the concept to entice new clients. For this calibre of prospective member ‘timeshare’ will not be mentioned. Selling exclusivity associated with perfect location, understated size of property and independence, makes it marketable to the top echelon of consumers. The competition at this stage is only that of exclusive hotels which have their disadvantages for regular and long term clients. The concept of High End Fractionals began in America where it exists in the form of the clubs associated with the Ritz-Carlton hotel group owned by Marriott. The four Ritz-Carlton Clubs are at: Bachelor Gulch, Beaver Creek and Aspen, Colorado; Jupiter Florida and St Thomas, US Virgin Islands. The first High End Fractional scheme in London was launched last year under the name 47 Park Street by Marriott Grand Residence Club but still owned by Marriott. Photos courtesy of Grand Residence Club 47 Park Street is located in the heart of prestigious Mayfair. It is within easy walking distance of Hyde Park, Oxford Street and Park Lane. The address is also perfectly situated for access to museums, shops and is in the same building as one of the most exclusive restaurants in London: La Gavroche. Although Grand Residence Club, 47 Park St., London 51

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of NEWH - April 2004

NEWH - April 2004
President’s Letter
Calendar of Events
Contents
From the Editor
Hospitality News
In Memory - Thomas R. Durkan, Sr.
Top Hotel Developers - John Q. Hammons
On the Road Again
HD Expo at a Glance
Surviving HD
Did You Know
Exclusive Lifestyle by Design
If It Were Easy
The Best of Time
Talk About Fast Track
What to Expect From the Vacation Ownership Industry
A Look Back in History
The New Direction for Timeshares in Europe
Confronting the Disabilities Myth
Furnishing Today’s Timeshare
Art - The Final Piece of the Puzzle
Showcase Projects
Design Education Today
Designer Profile: Esther Dunbar-Cullum
Oh Canada, Oh Canada
Top Awards
From Across the Pond
Spotlight On...
Tips on Specs
Window Treatments 101
Hot New Products
We Want Your Projects
Bios

NEWH - April 2004