3 Must-Visit Destinations in Early 2016
After the excitement of the holidays, why not consider enjoying a getaway between March and May? It's a great time of year to visit a variety of Asia-Pacific destinations, including these three enticing countries:
Australia
As a Member, you can use Club Points to stay at four great properties, including the Sydney Harbour Marriott® Hotel at Circular Quay, where you can enjoy a special offer, Brisbane Marriott® Hotel and Surfers Paradise Marriott® Resort and Spa . When you visit between March and May, the weather is generally still warm enough for the beach, but cool enough to explore outdoors without breaking a sweat.
To best experience the colorful foliage during the autumn season, plan a stay at the Melbourne Marriott® Hotel and take a day trip to the Yarra Valley. Here you can soak in the fall colors while treating yourself to a tasting at one of the area’s many wineries.
Thailand
You can also use your Club Points to enjoy a relaxing stay by the Andaman Sea at one of two Club Resort properties, Marriott's Phuket Beach Club or Marriott's Mai Khao Beach – Phuket. Or you may want to combine a Phuket holiday with a stay on an island along the opposite coast, at the Club Connections location Renaissance® Koh Samui Resort and Spa.
In any of these destinations, you can join in the celebration of the Thai New Year during the traditional Songkran Festival from 13 – 15 April 2016. This annual event features parades, games and water fights meant to symbolically wash off the past year's misfortunes.
Japan
The months of March through May are prime cherry blossom season in Japan, making it an enchanting time to enjoy a stay at Club Connections locations in Tokyo and Okinawa. Before you go, make sure you research the peak viewing season in each destination, as well as the best hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spots, such as the Chidorigafuchi Moat in Tokyo.
View a full listing of Club Connections locations. To reserve your holiday, book online at VacationClubAP.com (for Club Resort Property reservations only) or contact Member Services.
Terms and Conditions
Booking Windows and Cancellation Rules are in accordance with the Third Amended & Restated Disclosure Document & Club Guidelines (as may be further amended). The number of rooms available in each hotel and resort under the Club Connections programme or as a Member Special is limited. Accommodations are subject to availability, and blackout dates apply. The Express Breaks option is not available in these locations. These locations and their Club Point levels are subject to change regularly and without notice. These hotels and resorts are not part of Marriott Vacation Club, Asia-Pacific, and are not Club Resort Properties. Availability of any particular Club Connections or Member Special location is subject to the terms of the agreement which the Club Manager was able to enter into with the operator of that location.
Accommodation at Club Resort Properties is subject to availability. Booking windows & 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.
A Year of Fun
Get ready to begin planning your next holiday! The 2016-2017 seasonality charts for Club Resort Properties are now available. If you need inspiration while you're deciding where and when to travel, here's a look at some of the can't-miss events taking place throughout the year where our Club Resort Properties are located*:
Phuket, Thailand
Marriott's Phuket Beach Club and Marriott's Mai Khao Beach – Phuket
February
Old Phuket Town Festival: Immerse yourself in colorful entertainment including cultural parades, Chinese Opera performances and more during this annual celebration in the heart of the Old Town.
May
Phuket International 10s Rugby Tournament: Watch rugby teams from all over the world compete for the trophy, with proceeds donated to charity.
August/September
Por Tor Festival: During this "Hungry Ghosts" festival, residents honor the spirits of loved ones by offering them gifts of food and traditional turtle-shaped cakes.
September/October
Phuket Vegetarian Festival: One of Thailand's most popular events, this annual festival is known for its dazzling street processions, special ceremonies and abundant vegetarian cuisine.
November
Loi Krathong: This national celebration of the full moon features the release of small flowers and candle-filled floats on area rivers and lakes, plus fireworks, barbecues and other festivities.
Patong Seafood Festival and Carnival: Enjoy fresh seafood, energetic street parades, special events and entertainment during this festival marking the beginning of Phuket's peak tourism season.
Bangkok, Thailand
Marriott Vacation Club® at The Empire Place©
January/February
Chinese New Year: Experience an exciting celebration in Yaowaraj, the city's Chinatown district, with a day full of fairs, dragon dancers, shopping and dining promotions, parades and more.
March
Bangkok International Fashion Fair: Explore fashion exhibitions or shop for souvenirs from local and international retailers at this annual event, offering free admission.
April
Songkran Festival: Celebrate the Thai New Year during this traditional festival featuring parades, games and water fights meant to symbolically wash off the past year's misfortunes.
June – August
Amazing Thailand Grand Sale Fair: Enjoy up to 80% off at the city's best shopping outlets, including Erawan Bangkok Department store, Amarin Plaza, Fashion Island and more!
September – October
International Festival of Dance and Music: The country's largest annual performing arts festival, this event showcases opera, music and dance from international artists and performance companies.
December
Bangkok Jazz Festival: Local and international jazz musicians gather at Central World Plaza to play live music for thousands of fans.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Marriott's Grand Chateau®
January
Otakon Las Vegas: Take part in this new event at Planet Hollywood, featuring events, activities and festivities that celebrate anime and East Asian popular culture.
February – April
Mardi Gras Festival: Immerse yourself in spectacular carnival festivities at various casinos along the famed Las Vegas Strip, where you can enjoy Cajun food and drinks as well as special stage shows.
March
St. Patrick's Day Celebration: Enjoy a lively parade and visit area casinos for specialty cocktails, green beer and Irish-themed dining and events.
May
Helldorado Days: This celebration of the city's Wild West heritage and pioneer culture features a parade, mountain trail ride, rodeo, art show, carnival and more.
August
Las Vegas Film Festival: The city's premier film event showcases a diverse collection of film screenings, including feature films, documentaries and animated short films.
September/October
Las Vegas Greek Festival: Savor Greek cuisine such as gyros and baklava, dance to traditional music or shop for clothing, jewelry and art during this vibrant cultural event.
December
New Year's Eve: Venture downtown or stay on the Strip and enjoy an exhilarating evening of street parties, live music and synchronized fireworks.
Kauai, Hawaii
Marriott's Waiohai Beach Club
February
Waimea Town Celebration: Enjoy live music, a rodeo, crafts, games, a beer garden, local food and more at the Old Sugar Mill in Waimea.
March/April
Kauai Orchid and Art Festival: During this Hanapepe event, you can view exotic orchid displays and artwork created by island painters, listen to live music and take part in family activities.
May
Kauai Polynesian Festival: This annual cultural festival provides a fascinating introduction to Polynesian culture, music, dance, cuisine, arts and crafts.
July
Concert in the Sky: The island of Kauai celebrates America's independence with a patriotic fundraiser featuring fireworks, carnival rides and games.
September
Kauai Mokihana Festival: Experience a taste of Hawaii during this fun-filled week of concerts, hula dancing, educational events, storytelling, arts and crafts.
October
Kauai Coconut Festival: Explore a delightful array of coconut-themed cooking demonstrations, games and historical presentations, plus live music and children's activities.
December
Festival of Lights: Admire glittering lights, folk art decorations and uniquely adorned Christmas trees in Lihue, plus a celebratory parade, food booths and entertainment.
Oahu, Hawaii
Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club
February
Oahu Fringe Festival: Local and international artists present unconventional and innovative performances in theater, dance, comedy, puppetry and more.
March
Shop a Le'a: Find great deals during this weeklong shopping and fashion event at Ala Moana Center, featuring special shopping and dining offers, in-store events and more.
April/May
Waikiki Spam Jam Festival: In honor of Hawaii's favourite canned meat, sample diverse culinary creations, themed merchandise and crafts, live entertainment and games.
May
Mele Mei: This month long event devoted to Hawaiian music offers abundant live entertainment ranging from local concerts to hula competitions and fun festivals.
June
Pan-Pacific Festival: Take part in a dynamic cultural celebration featuring street parties, drumming and dance performances, food and craft vendors and more.
August
Made in Hawaii Festival: Discover an enticing selection of locally made goods, from jewelry and clothing to arts and crafts, plus cooking demonstrations and live entertainment.
October
Haunted Lagoon: Visit the Polynesian Cultural center for a scary canoe ride full of thrills and chills as you travel across a dark and twisting lagoon.
View the 2016 – 2017 seasonality charts. To reserve your holiday, book online at VacationClubAP.com or contact Member Services.
*Event dates are subject to change.
Accommodation at Club Resort Properties is subject to availability. Booking windows & 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.
Ask the Expert: Paying Your Club Dues
This month, Mandy shares how you can pay your Club Dues online.
How can I pay my Club Dues?
If you have registered for e-billing, you will receive an email informing you that your annual Club Dues invoice is ready. Then you can log into your web account to download a copy. If you have not registered for e-billing, you will receive a hard copy of your invoice in the mail. All Members are able to view their invoices online, regardless of whether or not they have registered for e-billing. To make a payment, simply visit VacationClubAP.com and follow these steps:
- Log in to your account with your username and password.
- Hover over "View Account" with the mouse and select "My Club Dues" from the dropdown menu.
- On the My Club Dues page, the Ownership Fees application will open in a new tab or new window in your browser. In the Ownership Fees application, you can see the "Current Amount" and "Amount to Pay" located in the center of the page.
- Click on the expand button in front of "Club Dues" to view the details of your Club Dues.
- Click on the dropdown button next to "Select Payment Currency" and you can select your preferred currency. Please read the note below the Club Dues details box before you proceed.
- In the Email Address section, enter your preferred email address in the "Email Address" box.
- Read the disclaimer and then check the box next to it. After that, click "Make Payment".
- An overlay window will appear on your screen. Verify the payment amount and currency in the "Payment Details" section. Also, check your name and billing address in the "Billing Information" section.
- In the "Credit Card" section, click the dropdown button to select your credit card type. At the moment, we accept payment by Visa, MasterCard and American Express.
- Enter your credit card number, select the expiration month and year, and enter your card verification number.
- Once you have verified that all information on this page is accurate, click "Submit".
- You will then see a payment processing message. During this time, do not refresh the page or go back to the previous page.
- Once the payment has been processed successfully, you will be directed to the payment confirmation page. If you return to the Ownership Fees application homepage, you will see that your account is now current. Both the "Current Amount" and "Amount to Pay" will be showing as zero.
What happens if I don't pay my Club Dues? You will incur late fees and your usage may be frozen and membership revoked, so make sure to submit your Club Dues payment before the due date!
Do you have a question abour your Membership? Submit your question or contact Member Services.
Get to Know Mandy! |
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 a Membership Advisor? What is your favourite Marriott Vacation Club® or Marriott® property that you have visited? Why? Which Marriott Vacation Club® or Marriott® property do you hope to visit in the future? Why? What has been your favourite holiday to plan for Members? Why? Is there anything else you'd like to share with or tell Members? |
Holiday Recipe: Mango Upside Down Mini-Cakes
The holidays are approaching – what's on your menu? We asked Shane Kuwaye, the lead cook at Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club, to share a festive recipe that you can make at home. This sweet treat is sure to be popular with family and guests alike!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 24 oz of fresh mango
- 12 maraschino cherries
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup mango juice (or pineapple juice)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
- Heat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (177 degrees Celsius). Place 1 teaspoon melted butter in each of 12 ungreased jumbo or large muffin cups. Add 1 tablespoon brown sugar to each muffin cup. Place 2 ounces of diced mango in each cup; place 1 cherry in center of each mango slice.
- In a large bowl, beat cake mix, 1 cup mango juice (or pineapple juice), oil and eggs with electric mixer on low speed until moistened; beat 2 minutes on high speed. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
- Bake 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and cakes spring back when touched lightly in center. Cool cakes in cups 5-10min.
- Place cookie sheet upside down over each muffin pan; turn cookie sheet and muffin pan over. Remove pan. Serve cakes warm.
To reserve your Hawaii holiday, book online at VacationClubAP.com or contact Member Services.
Terms and Conditions
Accommodation at Club Resort Properties is subject to availability. Booking windows & 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
Premier Plus Members: +65 6877 6199
Fax: +65 6877 6089
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Australia
Tel: 1 800 736 115
Premier Plus Members: 1 800 739 045
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China
Tel: 400 120 6176
Premier Plus Members: 400 120 6177
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Hong Kong
Tel: +852 3071 4886
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Fax: +852 3071 4880
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Japan
Tel**: 0120 924 658 / 00531-650574 or +800 8855 6677 (Toll-free†)
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U.S., Canada & Caribbean
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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
*Please note that our website does not support Microsoft Internet Explorer version 6.0 or lower. Specifically, if you try to access VacationClubAP.com using Internet Explorer version 6 or lower, a Webpage Cannot be Displayed error will appear. Our website is best viewed using Internet Explorer 7 or 8 or Firefox 3+. To view our website, please upgrade to a newer version of Internet Explorer or use another browser application.
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†Please dial your country's international access code before the number. No international charges will be incurred.