An Update from the Advisory Committee Chairman
As the Chairman of the Advisory Committee, this is my first update in the Marriott Vacation Club Insider, Asia Pacific, and it's a pleasure and a privilege to have this opportunity to communicate with fellow Members. In this update, I'd like to talk to you about the Advisory Committee — who we are and what we do.
Who We Are
The Advisory Committee meets biannually in June and November and consists of five people, all of whom are Members of Marriott Vacation Club, Asia Pacific. The five members are from the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Hong Kong/Singapore, Japan and the United States. We were elected by other Members to serve a maximum of two consecutive three-year terms. We're all at different points in our terms; I have one more year to serve of my second three-year term.
What We Do
The Advisory Committee is responsible for representing the views of Club Members concerning the management and operation of the Club. We have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of the Club Members, without prejudice to the Marriott Vacation Club® International brand standards to which all Club Resort Properties must adhere. Each of us has one vote on matters presented to the Advisory Committee.
The Committee's rights and responsibilities are restricted to the following:
- Recommending the approval or rejection of the annual operating budget and any special assessments.
- Receiving audited financial statements.
- Recommending the replacement of the Club Manager (Marriott Vacation Club) in the event that it becomes bankrupt, or if an agreement on the annual operating budget is not reached for a protracted period as provided for in the Master Agreement.
- Recommending the approval of the appointment of a new Trustee in the event of retirement or termination of the same as provided for under the Trust Deed.
- Recommending the approval or rejection of any contraction plan prepared by the Club Manager.
- Considering and taking action on any matters placed before the Committee by the Club Resort's Board of Directors under the Club Governing Documents.
On June 6, 2014, the Advisory Committee spent time with representatives of the Club Manager, delving into the expense/cost apportionments between Marriott Vacation Club International and the Members. We sought to understand and gave our view on performance and usage at the various Club Resort Properties. We also reviewed the year's cost/expenses against budget and received information about refurbishments.
On November 3, 2014, representatives of the Club Manager gave us a general update and we discussed the proposed 2015 budget. The Committee members were vigorously critical while reviewing the increase in the Club Dues. Since we are Members ourselves, we want any increase to be limited as much as possible without risking any negative effect on our holiday experiences.
The Committee also thoroughly reviewed the Reserve Fund with the Club Manager representatives to ensure there is enough in the fund to pay for all the refurbishments necessary to keep the Club Resort Properties at the standard we all expect today, and to ensure the funds are spent only as necessary and for the purpose intended. We also inquired as to where the funds are placed, and we looked to the audit for assurance that reserve funds are in a separate account.
Having just completed a stay at Marriott's Mai Khao Beach — Phuket, I can report that improvements continue to be made and planned, and the Club Manager has listened to suggestions and comments from the Committee and in many cases has been able to implement the changes and improvements.
Guest Satisfaction Scores
The Club Manager has also been delighted with the increase in Guest Satisfaction Scores, which they review with us regularly. These scores are calculated from the email questionnaire you receive following your stay at a Club Resort Property. The Club Manager uses the scores from these reviews to gauge resort management and staff performance individually, countrywide and worldwide. So please do take a few minutes to let them know what you think the next time you receive one of these surveys. It's an important way to provide feedback to the Club Manager and the Club.
Get Involved
When there is an Advisory Committee election, I urge you to make your voice heard by reviewing the candidate biographies on the ballot, sent with the Annual Notice of Election, and casting a vote. Too few Members take their opportunity to vote. If you're interested in joining the Advisory Committee, you'll have the chance to submit your information to be reviewed by the nominations committee before the election.
I look forward to sending you another update after the next committee meeting, which is scheduled for June 5, 2015. If you have issues, comments or suggestions, we'd be pleased to hear from you. Simply contact OwnerBoard.AsiaPacificClub@VacationClub.com.
Kind Regards,
Michael Oppenheimer
Asia Pacific Club Advisory Committee Chairman
Plan a Cruise Adventure in Alaska
There's no better way to see the stunning scenery of Alaska than from on board a cruise ship — surrounded by majestic peaks, impressive glaciers and glassy waters. And now is the time to reserve your spot on a cruise in Alaska, just in time for the region's summer season of May through September.
As a Member, you can use Club Points toward a cruise in Alaska and experience the region's incomparable natural beauty. Sip hot chocolate on deck as you sail along the famed Inside Passage and look for native wildlife such as whales, bald eagles, seals and more. During your adventure, you'll also experience local culture and traverse the pristine wilderness when you take advantage of optional land excursions. Or enjoy onboard dining, activities and amenities.
Here's just a sampling of the Alaska cruises you can enjoy as a Member:
Roundtrip 7-Night Cruise
35,000 Club Points*
- Departing 25 August 2015, roundtrip from Seattle
- Aboard the Carnival Legend in an inside cabin
- Featuring Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and more
35,000 Club Points*
- Departing 15 May 2015 from Vancouver, debarking in Seward
- Aboard the Royal Caribbean Radiance of the Seas in an inside cabin
- Featuring Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier and more
65,000 Club Points*
- Departing 8 May 2015, roundtrip from Vancouver
- Aboard the Norwegian Sun in an oceanview cabin
- Featuring Sitka, Juneau, Victoria and more
65,000 Club Points*
- Departing 6 June 2015 from Vancouver, debarking in Seward
- Aboard the Celebrity Millenium in an oceanview cabin
- Featuring Ketchikan, Skagway, Hubbard Glacier and more
When you're ready to reserve your cruise, contact Member Services.
*Based on availability. Cash top up fee of US$0 per person. Administration fee of US$119 per cabin is applicable.
Terms and Conditions
The rate for your cruise includes accommodations, most meals, activities and entertainment while onboard the ship. Some items such as beverages and optional specialty dining may not be included depending on the cruise line you have selected.
Not every cruise line, cabin or sailing is offered through this programme; click on the link provided above to see cruises offered. The costs for cruises are stated in Club Points, plus any additional cash amount that may be required in certain cases. Based on double occupancy per stateroom. Offers are based on availability. Taxes and port fees are additional and cannot be paid in Club Points. Club Point values are subject to change without notice. Restrictions may apply. All cruise reservations are subject to an administration fee of US$119 per cabin booked, payable to the Club Manager.
Cancellation policies are at the discretion of the cruise company (which will be disclosed at the time of booking) and may result in a credit toward future cruises from the cruise line. However, all applied Club Points will be forfeited.
Marriott International Inc., Marriott Vacation Club International and their respective affiliates and subsidiaries make no warranty, express or implied, as to the condition, capacity, performance or any other aspect of the activities, events or service providers listed herein. No inquiry has been made into the activities or events, or the qualifications or the quality of services offered by the providers. Do not consider this an endorsement of or recommendation for any of the activities, events or providers. Features, furnishings and amenities may be proposed and are subject to change.
Member is responsible to meet all relevant international travel requirements, including possession of a valid passport and visa, where necessary. Airfare and expenses not identified are not included in the above pricing and must be paid separately by cruise participants.
Two Club Resort Properties Receive Accolades
We're excited to share that two Club Resort Properties have won TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards for 2015! Marriott's Phuket Beach Club and Marriott's Mai Khao Beach — Phuket were named among the top 25 hotels in Thailand for families. These two popular resorts and the other winning properties were selected based on reviews and ratings from TripAdvisor users in 2014.
If you've stayed at one of these locations, you already know that these Club Resort Properties are beloved by Members for their beautiful beachfront locations and fabulous amenities.
Marriott's Phuket Beach Club
#9 Hotel in Thailand for Families
This luxurious sanctuary overlooking the Andaman Sea features spacious 2-bedroom/2-bath apartments and shimmering pools amid lush tropical landscaping. During your stay, you can enjoy easy access to all of the amenities at the adjacent JW Marriott® Phuket Resort & Spa, including several pools, 10 restaurants and lounges, and a relaxing spa that offers traditional Thai treatments. Plus, the resort has recently undergone several enhancements.
On TripAdvisor, reviewers say the resort is a “great family retreat with plenty to do,” a “wonderful resort that you won't get tired of,” and “a piece of paradise.” Read More.
Marriott's Mai Khao Beach - Phuket
#20 Hotel in Thailand for Families
This enchanting resort is also adjacent to the JW Marriott® Phuket Resort & Spa, offering convenient access to the hotel's paid amenities such as on-site dining and spa treatments. Plus, the Club Resort Property offers unique charms of its own, including new improvements such as a new kids pool with splash pad, which is already a big hit with families. After a day of fun and relaxation, unwind in your comfortable 2-bedroom/2-bath apartment.
TripAdvisor reviewers have great things to say about the resort, including that it's a “great resort for families with young children,” an “awesome place,” and “amazingly friendly.” Read More.
To reserve your stay at a Club Resort Property in Phuket or any of our Club Resort Properties, visit VacationClubAP.com or contact Member Services.
Terms and Conditions
Accommodation at Club Resort Properties is subject to availability. Booking windows and cancellation rules are in accordance with Third Amended & Restated Disclosure Document & Club Guidelines (as may be further amended). Seasons vary year to year. Multiple check-in days available.
Enjoy an Enhanced Phuket Holiday
Our Club Resort Properties in Phuket have received a lot of attention lately, and for good reason! Both Marriott's Phuket Beach Club and Marriott's Mai Khao Beach - Phuket have recently undergone significant improvements in order to make your holiday even better.
Check out all the ways you can enjoy an enhanced stay the next time you visit Phuket:
Arrival Experience
- If you've planned a stay at a Phuket Club Resort Property, we'll contact you 21 days prior to arrival in order to gather information about your preferences regarding apartment allocation, sightseeing and activity planning, as well as any special requests you may have.
- If you're staying at Marriott's Phuket Beach Club, when you arrive, you'll discover an expedited check-in process at the Marriott's Phuket Beach Club lobby desk.
- If your apartment is ready when you arrive, you'll be able to take advantage of express check-in, allowing you to relax and settle in more quickly.
- Enjoy a new selection of family-focused activities at our Phuket properties! A few of the most popular additions include: movie night at the pool areas, fitness classes such as Zumba and Bollywood dance, Kids Night Out events, live music during our Happy Hour events and more.
- The little ones can make a splash in the new Kids Pool at Marriott's Mai Khao Beach - Phuket.
- At Marriott's Phuket Beach Club, we've replaced all mattresses in every apartment, as well as the tables on the terraces.
- At Marriott's Mai Khao Beach - Phuket, you'll find new stoves and 42” televisions in all the apartments.
- At both resorts, we block each apartment from occupancy for a week for preventative maintenance and cleaning. During this period of time, our teams tackle various jobs such as painting and floor polishing, so your apartment will be refreshed and ready for you.
- Marriott's Mai Khao Beach - Phuket has unveiled a new sala (open-air pavilion) that will be used for fitness classes and other activities. We've also spruced up the resort's garden with more plants and flowers.
- At Marriott's Phuket Beach Club, you'll enjoy improved pool seating, as we've added 70 new sunbeds and replaced the old ones at the North and South pools. Plus, we've resurfaced the tennis court and we've renovated Cucina restaurant and the fitness center changing rooms.
To reserve your stay at one of our Club Resort Properties in Phuket, visit VacationClubAP.com or contact Member Services.
Get to Know the General Manager – Martin Divenosa! |
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Where are you from? What languages do you speak? How long have you worked for Marriott Vacation Club International? 
What do you enjoy most about being General Manager? Besides the properties you oversee, which Marriott Vacation Club/Marriott property has been your favorite to visit? Why? Which Marriott Vacation Club/Marriott property do you hope to visit in the future? Why? Is there anything you'd like to tell Members? |
Terms and Conditions
Accommodation at Club Resort Properties is subject to availability. Booking windows and cancellation rules are in accordance with Third Amended & Restated Disclosure Document & Club Guidelines (as may be further amended). Seasons vary year to year. Multiple check-in days available.
Introducing clubTHRIVE
We all know that vacation is good for the soul – but we're ensuring that your next resort stay can be good for your mind and body, too!
Many of our Members are dedicated to a healthy, balanced lifestyle - especially while on holiday. That's why we recently launched a new wellness program called clubTHRIVE at several Marriott Vacation Club® resorts, and the program will be expanding to additional locations in 2015.
Our clubTHRIVE offerings are customizable to fit your preferences and physical ability, and you'll discover various opportunities to refuel, renew, move and explore in healthy ways:
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Refuel
Eating healthy while on holiday can be a challenge, but clubTHRIVE can help! Take advantage of hearty and well-balanced food and beverage options at on-site eateries.
- Renew
Unwind and get in a vacation state of mind with rejuvenating resort activities, including light stretches and yoga. Or indulge in soothing spa therapies that relax your mind and delight your senses.
- Move
If you're looking for a way to get your blood pumping, don't miss on-site cardio, strength and toning programs that are designed to be fun and a great workout.
- Explore
Venture out of the resort and experience the surrounding locale with an array of healthy, educational and fun activities.
For the latest clubTHRIVE news and updates, visit the Marriott Vacation Club Facebook page. To reserve your stay at Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club or any other Club Resort Property, visit VacationClubAP.com or contact Member Services.
Terms and Conditions
Accommodation at Club Resort Properties is subject to availability. Booking windows and cancellation rules are in accordance with Third Amended & Restated Disclosure Document & Club Guidelines (as may be further amended). Seasons vary year to year. Multiple check in days available.
Member Services Contact Information
Email: MemberServicesAP@VacationClub.com
Website: VacationClubAP.com*
Singapore and all other countries not listed on this page
Tel: +65 6877 6088
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Fax: +65 6877 6089
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Australia
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China
Tel: 400 120 6176
Premier Plus Members: 400 120 6177
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Japan
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Philippines & Thailand
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U.S., Canada & Caribbean
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Toll-Free: 800 919 8066
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Email: MemberServicesAP.USA@VacationClub.com
Europe, Middle East & Africa
Tel: +800 8855 6655 (UK & Germany)
Tel: +353 21 730 4484 (Other Countries)
Premier Plus Members: +800 8855 6666 (UK & Germany)
Premier Plus Members: +353 21 730 4494 (Other countries)
Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Irish Standard Time)
Email: MemberServicesAP.Europe@VacationClub.com
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