Fantastic tips for sea, river and land adventures -pg 16
REFURBISHMENTS
Freshwater Point Resort, Broadbeach QLD ...and more to come...
-pg 20
MGALLERY STORY
Basildene Manor, chosen for it’s memorable character to rebrand to MGallery and join Accor’s high-end hotel portfolio -pg 10
From the CEO
The first half of 2014 has flown by but I am pleased to report that your team at Accor Vacation Club has been very busy. This edition of the magazine highlights a few of the team’s achievements during the year to date and some exciting initiatives that you can look forward to in the coming months.
Earlier this year Brett Becker was appointed as General Manager Member Services. Brett and his team are based at our Robina office and in the special feature over the page you will read about Brett’s plans and vision for the Club. You can also find out more about the Member Service team, I imagine many of you will recognise names in the team and I feel sure you will appreciate putting faces to those names.
One of the team’s responsibilities is the management of reservation requests for our Accor Hotels Select Program. From just a handful of hotels at its inception, the program now has the team booking over 1000 room nights every month across a large number of participating properties. In fact the success of the program has seen it recently nominated for an upcoming industry innovation award.
Over the next months we will be announcing additional Accor Hotels Select destinations and some great new programs to expand your holiday options.
The Accor Vacation Club property team continues on our refurbishment schedule for 2014, with The Sebel Vines in Swan Valley well underway, to be quickly followed by The Sebel Pinnacle Valley Resort, Mt Buller and finally, before year end, The Novotel Lake Crackenback Resort. We will also finish a magnificent make over of the reception, restaurant and bar area at Puka Park in New Zealand’s beautiful Coromandel Peninsula.
The success of the refurbishment program has resulted in a number of name changes to reflect the high quality of accommodation we provide. You may remember from an earlier update that most of our Grand Mercure properties were rebranded under the iconic ‘The Sebel’ brand.
I am now very proud to announce that Grand Mercure Basildene Manor and Grand Mercure Puka Park have been selected to join the MGallery portfolio, a collection of unique, high end hotels within the Accor world network, chosen for their memorable character. You will find more on the story behind MGallery on page 10.
Our property improvements and exceptional service standards have not gone unnoticed by some of the large social media travel sites, with a number of your Club properties recently receiving the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for 2014. A big thanks to all of you for the wonderful and encouraging feedback you post on these sites and also send to me personally.
Another success story this year is Accor Vacation Club Cruises and the feedback from Members who have used the program has also been phenomenal. Inside, you will find more information on the wide variety of cruises on offer.
Accor Vacation Club continues to evolve, with so many new initiatives and exciting holiday options to increase your enjoyment of the Club. Our Member Workshop program has grown significantly in 2014 and we are meeting thousands of Members every month as we travel throughout Australia and New Zealand. If you haven’t already attended a workshop event I would highly recommend you do so. These events are a fantastic way to ensure you get the very best out of your Membership and keep updated on what is happening in your Club.
You will receive shortly an online Accor Vacation Club Member survey. Your feedback is very important to the running of your Club so I would appreciate it if you could take the time to complete the survey.
Until next time, enjoy the second half of 2014, Happy Holidays,
Craig Wood Chief Executive Officer Accor Vacation Club
Meet the new Member Services Manager
Brett Becker Member Services Manager
Where were you employed prior to joining the Accor Vacation Club family?
I have been fortunate enough to work in the tourism and hospitality industry for the last 16 years of which I have held a varied array of positions at some incredible locations, the most recent being in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. I started my hospitality career here on the beautiful Gold Coast, before leaving some 10 years ago to experience a number of other spectacular locations this country has to offer. I spent the first 2 years at Ayers Rock Resort (which remains my favourite destination of all), before getting back in my car to traverse the other half of Australia before arriving in Perth. Whilst in Perth, I managed to experience some of the wonderful sights that Western Australia has to offer, from the beautiful Jurien Bay right down to the historic town of Albany and of course through the superb wine region of Margaret River – where of course sits the picturesque Basildene Manor. From here I crossed back to the east coast again, where I then called Cairns home. During my time in Cairns I was fortunate enough to be asked to go to Papua New Guinea for a short time to assist in the operation there. Upon arrival, I instantly saw that this was a once in a lifetime opportunity that was too good to pass up, so I stayed on for 2 years in a business support role. This was by far the most rewarding, and challenging, location of all.
How long have you been working at Accor Vacation Club overall?
I have now been with Accor Vacation Club for 18 months. I started with the Club as the Financial Controller, bringing with me very much a Business Support background. When the role of General Manager of Member Services became available some 2 months ago, I saw this as a great opportunity to truly immerse myself in the Club and take the Member Services department to the next level by looking at the Club with a holistic approach.
What are your main responsibilities as the Member Services General Manager?
As the General Manager of Member Services, I am lucky enough to be surrounded by an extremely capable, confident and engaged team. This allows me time to focus on the Club in its entirety, and identify ways to continue to develop the Club to ensure that Accor Vacation Club continues to be a market leader in vacation ownership. At present I am working on some great new initiatives that will benefit all Members from our Bronze Membership right up to our Corporate Levels. This is truly an exciting time to be involved in the Club and I am looking forward to what lay ahead.
What are your plans, hopes and goals in your new role?
I am sure that a lot of you will agree with me when I say we currently have an extraordinary Member Services Team. They are one of the most committed and passionate teams that I have ever had the privilege to work with. The lengths my team goes to in ensuring that every interaction they have with you is memorable is something that they are all extremely proud of. I can assure you that my team will continue to grow and evolve with the Club, to ensure the high level of service that you have come to expect, and also deserve, remains to be the best in class. I have always lead a team with the belief that if you give them the tools to succeed, empower them to make decisions, and support them when they are unsure, they will rise to any challenge they are faced with.
Over the coming months, one of my main objectives is to further develop the Clubs relationships with local businesses, to grow the Personal Benefits program for all our Members into one that we can all be proud of. We see this as an integral part of the Club for two main reasons. It of course creates some great discounted benefits in the local area of the property you are staying at, but it also supports these local business who without them our destinations just would not be the same.
We have now had the opportunity to hold workshops all around Australia as well as travel across to New Zealand to hold workshops in both Christchurch and Auckland. We have received some wonderful feedback from you, and we promise to continue holding these valuable workshops in the future. These are a great tool to receive some updates on the Club, but also a fantastic opportunity for you to meet some like minded travellers to see how they use the Club.
I am also committed to developing these education workshops into the most invaluable sessions possible. We have taken onboard your feedback from these workshops and we now plan to expand these into bigger and better events that we truly believe you will all appreciate.
The Accor Hotel Select program continues to be one of the most favoured programs that the Club has rolled out. The current 16 properties continue to be in high demand, and for that reason we are currently sourcing more properties to give greater flexibility around locations and attractions. We are committed to this program, and for this reason we carefully choose properties which are to be included, in order to ensure that all properties meet certain criteria ensuring they are the right fit for the Club. We are hoping to have some very exciting news about the Accor Hotel Select program in the coming months, so ensure you keep an eye out for upcoming emails. Don’t forget, Accor Hotel Select is a great way to utilise your points that are nearing expiry!
Another way to maximise your expiring points is of course the Accor Vacation Club Cruises. The success of this program has exceeded even our expectations! Since the inception of this program in late 2012, there has been a total of over 800 cruises booked totalling more than $5million! This has been an incredible response and one that we know we need to cherish moving forward.
You will also find some exciting news in the following pages about further enhancements currently taking place to some of our existing Club properties. Keep an eye out for the story on the amazing new Water Park that has been constructed in the famous lagoon at Novotel Twin Waters. And the best news about this is, as Accor Vacation Club Members you have free use of this facility! Keeping in similar Queensland style, the water park at Turtle Beach Resort has also just completed a major upgrade creating a brand new Splash Zone.
So with the first half of 2014 almost over, it’s already getting towards that time of the year where we all start to count down to the festive season and spending valuable time with our loved ones. I hope the second half of the year proves as exciting for you as it will be for me!
Meet the Member Services Team
Member Services currently has 8 team members based at the head office in Robina on the Gold Coast. The team is here to support you, to ensure you get the most out of your Club. Whether you are a brand new member wanting to understand how the Club works, or a seasoned professional trying to organise a complex getaway, this is the team that can make it happen.
Sharon Norburn | Member Services Supervisor
I have worked for Accor Vacation Club for just over two years now, starting as the part-time Resolutions Officer, I am now the Member Services Supervisor managing a team of 8 wonderful Member Services Co-Coordinators. I have worked in many different areas of the travel and tourism industry over the last 28 years, with my focus always being on fostering a culture of providing an exceptional experience in every interaction we have.
I love to travel whether it be a short break visiting friends and family in Melbourne or on an overseas adventure with my husband and kids. I have most recently travelled to Singapore and Thailand, taking in a 5 day jungle trek which included a day caring for orphaned elephants, canoeing from one camp to another and enjoying wonderful food and scenery.
Jodie Hartshorn | Member Services Co-ordinator
My name is Jodie and I am proud to say I have been with Accor Vacation Club for almost 10 years now. I thoroughly enjoy assisting our Members with booking their holidays, and it always give me great inspiration on places to go and see that I may not have previously considered. Out of all our wonderful properties, I must say that my favourite of all is Freshwater Point, and now that it has undergone a refurbishment it is even better. Although when I do have the opportunity to get away for a short break, I head straight to the NSW North Coast to my favourite seaside town.
Paula Wooden | Member Services Co-ordinator
I have been with Accor Vacation Club for 3 years in Member Services and love to chat and meet our Members. My favourite Club property is The Sebel Melbourne Flinders Lane and I enjoy nice food, wine and any chance to travel anywhere.
Shannon Heusmann | Member Services Co-ordinator
My name is Shannon and I am relatively new to Accor Vacation Club. I love my job because it allows me to help our Members enjoy amazing holidays at some of the best destinations and accommodation available. I am a Melbournian at heart, but have travelled to, and lived in, several locations across this amazing country. I have worked in the Customer Service industry for most of my career and believe that providing exceptional service to all of our Members is the most important part of my job. I like to get to know the Members I speak with so that I can help by recommending suitable destinations for individual needs. My favourite Accor Vacation Club location is The Sebel Flinders Lane, in the heart of Melbourne. The location is perfect, the styling is beautiful, and, now that I live on the sunny Gold Coast, it allows me to get back home and visit my family.
Candice Grigg | Member Services Co-ordinator
I have been with the Accor Vacation Club since February 2013. My previous roles included retail management and finance so it has been a fantastic change to assist many wonderful Members with their holidays. Being a part of the Accor Vacation Club has brought many travel opportunities with my favourite so far being New Zealand in September 2013. I had the pleasure of visiting all three of our Club properties but the Grand Mercure Oakridge in Wanaka is by far my favourite. I am a very active person so climbing mountains in the South Island was a fantastic experience but back home on the Gold Coast nothing beats a run along the beach at sunrise.
Adam Eastwell | Member Services Co-ordinator
As an Accor Vacation Club employee I have stayed at an abundance of our club properties and had a wonderful time every stay. I would have to say my favourite is Freshwater Point on the Gold Coast as it is close to the restaurant district, Casino and has the convenience of the beach as this suits my lifestyle.
Greg Rathborne | Member Services Co-ordinator
I have been with Accor Vacation Club since November 2013. I previously worked in Accor properties in the roles of Duty Manager and Senior Assistant Manager at the Sofitel, Gold Coast. I love travelling and my favourite destinations are Tahiti, New York, Spain and Singapore. I take any opportunity to get away, even to Sydney for a weekend to catch up with friends. I enjoy helping Members plan their special occasion stays and get a thrill when I receive favourable comments from Members on their return home.
Sofia Jovanetic | Member Services Co-ordinator
I have worked for Accor Vacation Club in Member Services for more than a year but have been within the holiday club industry for 13 years. I am yet to experience all the Accor Vacation Club properties, but so far my favourite is The Sebel Flinders Lane. I have a strong focus for customer service and enjoy assisting our Members, whom often give me great ideas and destinations for when I am travelling myself.
Contact Member Services for all your Membership queries, if you need information or inspiration for your next getaway.
The Singapore Reservations team has been servicing Accor Vacation Club Members across Asia-Pacific since August 2008. Based in Raffles Place, Singapore’s business district, our team answers calls from Accor Vacation Club Members in Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia and beyond.
One of the hallmarks of the Singapore team has been continuity. Led by Club Services Director Kurt Hughto, an industry veteran of over 25 years, our team of 30-strong has a wealth of experience in member servicing and reservations expertise. Tresa Victorino has been part of the team since inception, starting as a Counselor and now provides stellar leadership in the Senior Supervisor role. She is flanked by Moah Bautista, a Supervisor now entering his 4th year with the team.
The team in Singapore combines people from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, China, the USA and Canada to form an eclectic group that is rich in culture and love working with Accor Vacation Club Members to help them with all their vacation needs.
Reservations Centre in Singapore
Club Facts
Refurbishments
have been undertaken at the following Club Properties:
Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort
The Sebel Bussleton Freshwater Point Resort, Broadbeach
throughout Australia & New Zealand have attended our Workshop Sessions have been held at 9 locations
What’s been happening within the Club during
6 properties 2014
18 Member Workshop Sessions Over 2,500 Members now rebranded as
250 cruises booked over to the value of $2million confirmed over 7,000 room nights to experience pure luxury bookings on a 2 World Cruise
To give an idea of the wonderful places our Members are travelling: European River Cruises, South Pacific, Antartica, Caribbean, Transpacific, TransAtlantic and of course Alaska
‘The Sebel’ properties
The Story behind MGallery
When MGallery was created in 2008, the Accor Group wanted to share with its guests the vision of a new luxury, the luxury of experiences which stimulate the heart and the mind.
This ambition gave rise to a collection of unique hotels, chosen for their memorable character in the group’s high-end hotel portfolio, and their ability to offer guests a memorable stay rather than just another hotel stay.
The MGallery brand was created to reposition these properties and created an opportunity to leverage existing brand awareness and presence. Five years later, the collection in Australia has grown from The Grand Hotel in Melbourne which was launched with the brand in 2008 to a network of 7 throughout Australia today. Globally, there are 60 hotels spanning 5 continents. Better still, it is continuing to grow with the regular addition of carefully selected destinations.
“M” is for Memorable Hotels by Accor.
“Gallery” translates the idea of highlighting a Collection of unique hotels staged like works of Art in a must-see gallery.
Each hotel of the MGallery Collection offers a distinct and unique experience. Their history, calm ambience or design aesthetic gives each hotel its individual character, thus inspiring its pathway into one of the Collection’s three atmospheres or categories.
CATEGORIES
• Heritage
These hotels are steeped in history, their very walls bearing witness to the past: a historical architectural style, or famous people having stayed there in the past.
• Serenity
These hotels are true havens for relaxation: hidden away in natural sanctuaries (seaside, countryside or mountains) or in towns, they offer a peaceful setting and wellness services.
• Signature
These hotels reflect a given aesthetic environment; contemporary architecture, or an older building with modern decoration, they bear their designer’s or owner’s unique stamp.
Basildene Manor - Heritage Category
At the heart of each MGallery hotel there is a unique story to tell where every stay is filled with emotion and discovery.
Basildene Manor is a unique identity, constructed by Percy Willmott and inspired by Percy’s great-grandfathers property in Basildon, England the manor was constructed in 1912. Built using local products including local granite and wood the property is a local treasure which remained in the family’s hands until the 1970’s. The close relationship with the Willmott family continues today with the great grandson (now in his 80’s) still visiting and sharing his memories with the team at the property.
There is a majestic oak tree planted from an acorn from Buckingham Palace welcoming you as you enter the Manor or take a turn through the 14 acres of gardens. The gardens are well tended with hints of the past with 100 year old fruit tress dotted around the property. Guests are encouraged to join the grounds team to tend the gardens and cuttings are often lovingly given to guests so they can nurture new life in their garden at home.
Walking through the building there are superbly finished jarrah staircases, floors and central archways. Photos taken by Percy Willmott line the walls so that you get a sense of times gone by. Percy was not only a well known local
photographer but also at one time a lighthouse keeper at Cape Leeuwin and the pictures reflect the Margaret River of bygone era.
Grand yet warm and welcoming this is a complete experience with a house set amongst gardens full of blossoming flowers and alive with local wildlife.
Wine is a focus of the world renowned Margaret River and fittingly this has been incorporated into the Manor. Not only are the rooms named after different grape varieties, there is a magnificent cellar which has been showcased in the recent refurbishment. The original cellar was rediscovered when
works were being completed. To ensure guests were able to enjoy this experience a window was build into the floor of the front lounge room providing a unique perspective on this unique space. This has added to the living history that is central to the Basildene Manor experience.
Grand yet intimate and relaxed this original homestead is embraced by the magnificent gardens and has been lovingly refurbished to a subtle, sophisticated style. Guests are welcomed with an individual greeting from warm, friendly and passionate staff who embrace their guests to ensure they have an overwhelming sense of belonging and relaxation.
Accor Hotels Select Program
Currently Offers Members an additional 16 properties ontop of the 21 Accor Vacation Club properties.
Unable to travel before your points expire?
Need a quick break and can’t think where to travel?
Don’t forget you have 16 properties located throughout Australia, New Zealand and Phuket to select your perfect getaway, with new destinations being introduced all the time.
Accor Vacation Club recently ran a Member competition asking Members to supply their holiday snaps and stories. We would like to thank everyone that took the time to enter the competition. We are always looking for happy Member stories. Here are just a few:
Snap ‘n Win
COMPETITION WINNER
Let me give you a quick synopsis of one of our days in Queenstown. Snapshot Day #1 – We had a delightful buffet breakfast in Hotel St Moritz. Great food and terrific view over Lake Wakatipu from the cozy breakfast room. A short walk from the hotel to the Skyline gondola took us up to Queenstown Hill. Its almost a kilometre ride up to the viewing area and luge track. This is a must do for kids. Three different luge tracks to choose from and very safety conscious luge mobiles. Parents got a coffee and admired the awesome view over the lake and surrounding alps-style mountains....more
Rob and Marn Annesley
To read the the full story visit About the Club/Member Testimonials link
website
A very happy Accor Vacation Club Member
We have just returned from a wonderful 5 days at Mercure Kingfisher Bay Resort, Fraser Island. My husband and I have been wanting to go to Fraser Island for many years, and finally were able to make the trip. We had a fantastic time, and really enjoyed the benefit of the Accor Advantage Plus benefits, including dining discounts, making the holiday even more affordable.
Accor Vacation Club states that the Mercure Kingfisher Bay Resort is a base for exploration or a quiet getaway with loved ones and is filled with beautiful untamed natural landscapes, wildlife, rainforest, lakes and endless beaches, and they are absolutely spot on. We have just enjoyed a wonderful five days at Kingfisher Bay, and really felt like we were away from everything, truly on a holiday. Being able to use the Accor Advantage Plus card for discounted dining in the restaurant was also a huge plus, and we were very pleased with the service and knowledge of the staff at the resort.
We thoroughly enjoyed the food served at both the breakfast and dinner buffets, as well as the variety, and the facilities were lovely. Sunsets were spectacular, either enjoyed from The Jetty Hut over prawns and white wine, or cheese and beer, or from the resort itself, looking across the lagoon near the pool area. Each night ended with a swim and spa after dinner before settling down for the night. Ranger activities included a morning bird walk, an evening night tour, and comprehensive guided tours on Bush Tucker and Bush Medicine, which were very informative.
We had our own 4WD so were able to venture out from the resort on our first 4WD experience to the breath-taking Lake Mackenzie, and over to the eastern side of the island onto the beach highway, which indeed seemed endless. I was very excited to see my first wild dingoes, as well as sea
eagles fishing along the coastline, and a myriad of other bird life, such as different species of ferns, night herons, blue herons, and many species of songbirds and finches.
We did a number of bush walks, ranging from 1.2 kms up to 10 kms, and thoroughly enjoyed walking through the varying woodlands and bush that the island has to offer. The views from the top of the Sandy Strait walk were breathtaking, and watching the sea eagles over Dudonga Creek was amazing. Our son, Ben (18) and I hiked up to the WWII Z Unit Commando training base, then down to Mackenzie Jetty, a fabulous walk, and a great step back in history, before walking the 2.5 kms back to the resort. Along the way a pair of sea eagles were fishing right along the shore line, not 10 metres from where we stood, an experience we will never forget.
In 5 days I took 1700+ photos - and intend to return to take many, many more. Already we are talking about returning to Fraser Island, and bringing other family members along with us. There is so much to see and do there, and Mercure Kingfisher Bay is the perfect place from which to venture forth.
Our next Accor holiday is in Queenstown, New Zealand, at the end of the year, which is a return trip for us. We stayed at Wanaka in the South Island a couple of years ago, and were thrilled with how easy it all was through Accor and Interval. We are still learning how to use the Club to our full advantage but it has offered us holiday experiences we would have otherwise missed out on.
Kersten Fitzgerald
Norway cruising
Sailing in and out of the fiords is so relaxing, just put the feet up on deck with a vantage point and relish the tremendous views. Going into Oslo takes a couple of hours and every aspect is different. Don’t miss city hall which is not mentioned as a tourist must see in brochures.
A visit to Honolulu is incomplete without a tour to the Pearl Harbour Museum and an inspection of the Messouri. Allow a full day to take in so much history of the war in the Pacific during World War 2.
Bill Westnet
We have also taken the opportunity to book cruises and have cruised the Mediterranean, Brisbane to Fremantle, Honolulu to Sydney, and the Great Barrier Reef, through the cruise department with 2 for 1 cruises.
An APT tour of the Kimberley has been another way that we have utilized our Membership, and the final addition to the range of choices available was the Accor Advantage Plus Card. We have recently used this at the Mercure at Carrara on the Gold Coast.
Although we prefer self catering, when we were unable to secure a Club exchange or Getaway we used the card to secure a hotel room and enjoyed discounted dining.
WOW it was beautiful
At the end of October 2013. My wife and I went to Queensland for a 15 day holiday. The first stop was the Gold Coast to see all the highlights like Movie World and Sea World. The second stop on the agenda was the Sunshine Coast. We stayed at the Twin Waters Resort. WOW it was beautiful. The third and final stop was 5 days at Fraser Island. I have never been so relaxed on a holiday. It was fantastic, you were just able to walk around and do nothing. Go up and down the beach for miles and take in the sunsets from the little shack on the jetty.
Cant wait for the next holiday. Thanks Accor Vacation Club
Guy and Wendy
Happy Members!
Helen and I have been Members of Accor Vacation Club for 13 years and have stayed in most of the Club properties during this period. The affiliation with Interval has also provided us with the opportunity to stay in some beautiful overseas locations, both using points and with getaways.
Over the years we have been able to holiday in some marvellous places all around the world, as well as sharing this experience with our family.
Often we have been asked which property we prefer and find this very difficult as each has its own special memories. Family holidays at Turtle Beach with our grandchildren enjoying their many activities, seeing the Christmas lights at the Hunter Valley Gardens whilst staying in the beautiful apartments have been memorable.
We shared our 50th wedding anniversary with another couple celebrating theirs at the spectacular Crackenback property and have enjoyed walking in the Snowy Mountains during the summer.
Pinnacle Valley was a different holiday as we arrived on the day of Victoria’s disastrous bushfires and were the only guests who hadn’t cancelled. The staff were wonderful when we elected to stay, and made us very welcome. We have subsequently returned to this same property to enjoy everything that it had to offer under better circumstances.
We have told many people of the benefits that we have enjoyed and would recommend it to anyone who has the opportunity to take advantage of the ability to holiday with family or as a couple.
Digby and Helen Warren
Accor Vacation Club Cruises
Welcome Scenic River Cruises.
Accor Vacation Club Cruises welcomes an expanded Scenic Tours program to its portfolio of river cruise lines (now including APT, Uniworld, Viking, Avalon Waterways, Travel Marvel, Evergreen) offering some spectacular destinations and great value deals to its Members. Scenic River cruise ships known uniquely as space ships bring an understated elegance to European river cruising.
These all inclusive ships are unrivalled. Here are just some of their inclusions:
• Choice of up to six dining options, from casual to fine dining
• 24 hour room service
• Wi-Fi internet to keep you connected whilst cruising including through the TV in your cabin
• On board entertainment, uncover Europe’s customs and local performances
• Scenic Cruise Director on hand to assist throughout your cruise
• Expert local guides bring each town to life uncovering Europe’s history and charm
• Flexible and independent itinerary options to suit your own interests
• Scenic Riverview GPS triggered commentary at your fingertips whilst on board
• L’Occitane amenities in all suites
• Luxuriously appointed suites; every suite comprises a queen size Scenic Slumber Bed; pillow menu; personal climate control; hairdryer; safe; robe; slippers and a mini bar
• Technology at your fingertips with Mac mini infotainment system in all suites and staterooms
• Fitness Centre, walking track and Nordic walking sticks on board so you can be as active as you like
• Wellness Centre, indulge in hair and beauty treatments
Ahoooooy Matey’s
“Captain Scott” with his latest round of cruise news...
What’s new in the local Oz Cruise marketplace.
Hello my fellow Accor Cruise regulars and a big love boat welcome to all you first-time cruise newbies, who may just be considering your first cruise holiday! Wow – it’s an exciting time in the world of cruising and Australians have it made. There’s been an explosion of new cruise options with many new ships scheduled to be home-ported across Australia departing Brisbane, Melbourne, Fremantle, Sydney (and even across the ditch from Auckland).
There’s a huge bounty of fresh new itineraries, a wide range of cruising styles and a cool array of ships to choose from. Even better, cruise holidays have become very, very flexible with all kinds of itineraries with the many “yous” in mind, giving you the ability to cruise from just a couple of
nights on a getaway cruise sampler, to over 105 nights on a sojourn voyage of discovery. There’s family cruising, islandhopping, cultural emersion cruising, expeditions (Antarctica, Amazon, Galapagos etc.) river cruising, luxury and even tall ship crewed sailing adventures to explore. If the expression “the world is your oyster” were ever so true, it’s now, when there are so many cruising pearls out there for you to discover on your next cruise holiday.
Here’s the latest in New Cruise Lines & New Itineraries Departing Australia
Just so you’re up-to-date with the all the latest and greatest happenings in the Oz cruise world, here’s the low-down on the latest and most popular cruises to be home ported in Australia. All at our doorsteps or nearby port (or even within an easy flight if you want to mix it up and leave from a different city):
Carnival Cruise Lines brings its second ship to Australia introducing the Carnival Legend sister ship to the Carnival Spirit – famous for their waterslides the Green Thunder (an Ozzie original - the steepest and fastest waterslide at sea). Both ships are great for families, couples and legendary getaways. Departures from Sydney starting this spring, 2014 for the Legend and for the Spirit already home ported in Oz you will find getaways year round. Onboard you will discover their very popular Serenity Retreat – the largest open area on the ship – an ideal spot for adults only to kick back, relax and recharge. Itineraries/destinations across the two ships vary from just three night cruise samplers (Sydney coast) to really cool 15 night itineraries throughout the South Pacific even up to Singapore. There’s also a popular 8 night cruise that takes you from Sydney to Melbourne for the fabulous Melbourne Cup.
TIP
A great way to join the Melbourne Cup activities in cruising style. It’s popular and books up fast so please give your Accor Vacation Club Cruise agent a call for the latest availability.
Celebrity Cruise lines has upped the sophistication ante and will be introducing the Celebrity Century to the Sydney marketplace for the 2014/15 season, bringing its famous new Canyon Ranch SpaClub to our shores. The Century is said to combine old world elegance with modern luxury, giving you the best of both worlds. Itineraries include 3 night sampler cruises out of Sydney up to 14 night extravaganzas taking in Australia’s East Coast up to Cairns and then out to Vanuatu, Noumea and Isle of Pines.
P&O Cruise Lines welcomes 2 new completely refurbished ships to broaden its fleet out to a total of five. They will be plying the seas around Oz and out into the South Pacific and up to Asia. They are debuting their two new ships
arriving for the 2015/16 season. Rumours are flying and not only are shorter getaway 3 day cruises on the horizon, but one of these ships may even be home ported out of Freo. West Coasters keep your fingers crossed.
RCCL (Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines) is also bringing its own legend Down Under introducing the aptly named Legend of the Seas (not to be confused with Carnival’s Legend) and will be home porting this ship for the 2015/16 season out of Brisbane. There are 15 different cruises ranging from 2 nights to18. Choose from around Australia, out to the South Pacific Islands or across the Tasman to New Zealand. RCCL will join P&O’s Pacific Dawn also home ported in Brizzie. Nothing like some good healthy Ozzie competition. An exciting note that the Legend of the Seas will be joining RCCL’s other already arrived, bright star addition to their Australian line up, the Explorer of the Seas. These two ships have innovations galore including rock walls, basketball courts, ice skating rinks, mini golf and the ever so relaxing Vitality Spa. The Explorer alone has 15 bars, clubs and lounges and all the latest enhancements for couples, families or multi generational travellers.
Princess not to be missed at the Ozzie party, is sending its gorgeous Golden Princess to Melbourne for the 2015/16 season, joining its two other Sydney based ships. Get ready Victoria she’ll be in the neighbourhood soon near you. Some fabulous itineraries are planned and cruisers will be wooed by the Sanctuary adults only Oasis, its 4 pools, teens only sun deck, three show lounges and its magical outdoor theatre under the stars movie bar. You’ve asked for it – an expanded offering of cruises from this fabulous gateway city. I look forward to seeing you precruise for a drink in St. Kilda.
Whitsundays - QLD
Accor Vacation Club Cruises
APT also has some great news for those of us who love small ship luxury cruising, revealing their plan to bring their simply magical, 100-passenger Caledonian Sky to the Kimberley region in 2015. She will be joining her sister cruiser the 72 passenger Oceanic Discoverer. If ever there was a time to cruise and holiday in the Kimberley region it’s this coming 2015. Over 14 expedition-style itineraries are planned ranging from 11 to 27 fabulous days.
TIP
Check out some of APT’s fabulous Land tours and combine to get a fantastic perspective of the Kimberley by land and by sea.
Azamara Club Cruises – welcomes the Azamara Quest for its inaugural 2016 season. Among their well thought out itineraries are two spectacular January 2016 voyages, one a 10 nighter, heading down the Ozzie coast from Cairns via Townsville, to the Great Barrier Reef, Whitsunday Islands, Morton Island, Brisbane, New Castle into Sydney. The other, a 16-night extravaganza, takes in Sydney, Melbourne, Tasmania, Milford Sound, NZ, Dunedin, Akaroa, Picton, Napier ending in Auckland. Azamara Quest is a high end, mid-size beauty, well crafted with understated elegance and is known for its spacious feel and club like atmosphere.
Compagnie du Ponat Yacht Cruises – the ultimate in French luxury liners will also be debuting its beautiful ship L’Austral in Oceania this coming December 2014 and into 2015. Their moniker is discover cruising another way, discover the magic of yacht cruises. Renowned for their service standard they offer all the delights of immaculately prepared French inspired cuisine where no service detail is overlooked or spared. Some of their amazing itineraries include sailing from Bali to Cairns, Cairns via the Great Barrier Reef to Sydney, Tasmania, followed by three cruises crossing the Tasman Sea to New Zealand (2014/15).
Cruising outside of Australia –what’s hot and happening outside of our region in cruising!
Here’s just a taste of the exciting cruise highlights to wet your cruising appetite.
TIP
Book now on these new one off itineraries. Staterooms are snatched up fast on these popular novelty cruises.
RCCL is sending its state of the art Quantum of the Seas to Asia. Why not join the 57 night Global Odyssey repositioning voyage from New York to Shanghai crossing the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean. Discover some of the world’s most fascinating and fabulous ports of call including New York, Barcelona, Aqaba, Dubai, Muscat, Penang, Singapore and arriving Hong Kong 58 days later. It’s booking up fast. There are 18 restaurants to choose from including chef Jamie Oliver’s first Italian venue at sea, simply called – Jamie’s Italian. Accor Vacation Club Cruises can book your cabin. Quantum is Royal Caribbean’s newest class of ship continuing its legacy of innovations with a simulated skydiving feature and one of the largest indoor sports and entertainment complexes at sea.
Princess Cruises introduces its much anticipated Regal Princess debuting in the Eastern Caribbean for its 2014/15 season. By popular demand and feedback from its dedicated customers, Princess has included a built in 9ft swimming pool and will also introduce some spectacular cantilevered glass walkways that extend out almost 30 feet over the ships edge for some unique views.
NCL – In the Northern hemisphere winter (Australian summer) of 2015/16 Norwegian Cruise Lines unveils its newest revolutionary ship the Norwegian Escape. Renowned for their wide assortment of accommodations afloat, check out their cosy Studios, family connecting rooms and top shelf collection of Suites. For those wishing to experience the ultimate private experience at sea, you must cruise with NCL and try out their exclusive enclave at the top of the ship called simply, The Haven. Glorious luxury accommodations with private key card, 24 hour butler, concierge and access to the Haven’s private sundeck reserved exclusively for guests of the Haven. It’s like having your own ship, within a ship.
Milford Sounds - NZ
NCL has many other outstanding ships and itineraries from around Hawaii to Alaska or across the Caribbean and throughout the Mediterranean.
River Cruising
River Cruising – It’s been an amazing year for river cruising and I just wanted to make a quick mention that there are some really fantastic new ships out there this year on some really great old world and scenic itineraries around the globe. In addition to the all-time favourite combo, Rhine/ Danube River cruise (Amsterdam to Budapest), there are also some new cool itineraries as well in the Bordeaux region of France – amazing. Rivers steeped in history including the Garonne and Dordogne, not yet household names are in one of the biggest wine growing regions in France. Names like Cognac and Medoc come to mind.
River cruising continues to grow in overwhelming popularity with plenty of great cruise lines to choose from and great values to be had. Cruise in style along the world’s river waterways, unpacking only once. Accor Vacation Club Cruises has you covered with amazing agreements with all the major river cruise companies. Including APT, Scenic, Travelmarvel, Viking, Evergreen, Uniworld Boutique River cruises Avalon Waterways and even Pandaw.
*These cruise articles on pages 16 to 19 have been supplied by Accor
So this is just a little taste of what’s going on in the world of cruising! Through Accor Vacation Club Cruises all the cruise lines around Australia and the world (over 11,000 cruises) are at your fingertips! Let your highly skilled Accor Vacation Club Cruise consultant team help you plan and discover a cruise holiday just for you (and you can use your Première Points towards the cruise price!!!) After all...all the world is your oyster!
Bon Voyage! and “See you on the Seas (and rivers)...”
European River Cruise
Captain Scott
Morton Island - QLD
Vacation Club Cruises’ third party provider. Accor Vacation Club Cruises is a benefit available to Premiere Plus Members
A fresh look for Freshwater Point
An Accor Vacation Club property since 2008, Freshwater Point is ideally situated just outside Broadbeach on Queensland’s Gold Coast. Our apartments were not new at purchase and it was certainly time for a makeover. A soft refurbishment was completed in February this year and included new living and bedroom floor finishes, new furnishings, updated window treatments and commercial cleaning of all tiled areas.
broadbeach holiday apartments
The Resort Series refurbishments offer an ambience in keeping with location and provide superior quality and interior design while also ensuring product longevity, reduced maintenance costs and consistency within the Accor Vacation Club resort portfolio.
As part of Accor Vacation Club’s three year refurbishment program across all properties, the works at Freshwater Point met the Resort Series brand standard, a concept designed to consider the character and climate of both our coastal and inland destinations.
Freshwater Point’s great new look reflects the history of the Gold Coast during its years of strongest growth – the 1970s and ‘80s. Colour schemes, furnishings and the use of wood grain has a retro feel with a very modern twist.
Always family friendly and enduringly popular with Club Members, Freshwater Point is better than ever.
Member workshops continue to delight!
We will take the toy on our next holiday and hope for only a little rein dear
We kicked off 2014 with the same momentum we finished 2013, with our first workshop for the year being held in Brisbane. We have also been able to get down to St Kilda, Wollongong and Canberra before making it to the Hunter Valley and Tamworth in May. We have a hectic back half of the year planned also with the team excited about getting out to see you.
If you haven’t had a chance to get to one of our workshops yet, you really are missing out. These workshops are proving a great way for you to socialise with other members and learn how they use their membership to its fullest. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about the destinations you a thinking about going to, or maybe hadn’t even thought of yet. It’s also a great time to learn about the best way to use your Membership, with Steve giving some great insight and advice on all aspects of the Club. From expiring points to website navigation, Accor Hotels Select to Cruises, Interval International to Personal Benefits, Steve will be able to point you in the right direction.
It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about the various Cruise options or Flight Centre offerings with consultants on hand to answer any questions you may have.
So the next time there is a Workshop in your area, we hope to see you there!
I am very happy that Accor workshops are happening in Canberra.
It was great to see the room was packed with so many new Members. Workshops are very informative as we need to know what is happening with the company re; new resorts and as to bookings when to ring, dates and times.
My husband and I have enjoyed the different places we travelled. I am very happy to have won the two days in Bowral which we are extending to 5 days.
The Member Services department finds, builds and maintains relationships with these third party restaurants, thrill rides and adventure tours to provide Members great discounts close to our club properties for your convenience.
Accor Vacation Club WATERPARK
Novotel Twin Waters Resort
If you’ve had a chance to stay at Novotel Twin Waters recently you will have seen the brand new Water Park that has been constructed in the lagoon. The Water Park consists of a thrilling series of inflatable slides, runways and jumping pillows. There is also The Revolution rocker and slide, and the versatile soaker lounge The Fiesta, a great private island oasis on the lagoon for adults or nautical play station for kids. To make this even better, as an Accor Vacation Club Member, you receive FREE access to this amazing facility! If you’re looking for something for the kids, or for the big kids at heart, this is a must do activity.
FREE for Members
Turtle Beach Resort has completed construction on its very own Splash Zone, a fantastic and fun water play ground with 4 water slides, 2 toddler slides, dumping bucket, water cannons and more. To compliment this incredible new facility, the Woodfire Pizzeria has also been renovated, with the deck extending over the Splash Zone and looking towards a brand new stadium screen of 3.5m x 2m, which shows cartoons, videos and movies during both day and evening. Your kids are going to love it!
FREE Golf for Members
Staying at The Novotel Vines Resort
Two equally challenging 18 hole golf courses in the stunning Swan Valley, await your arrival. Continually rated as one of Australia’s best golf resorts, The Novotel Vines Resort and Country Club boasts the finest golf courses in Perth.
Surrounded by native bush with abundant wildlife, lush manicured gardens and the magnificent Swan Valley wine region, you will be tested on every hole whilst also taking time to soak up the surrounds.
Member Benefits
Skydive the Beach and Beyond
Meet our energetica and highly experienced team who are passionate about delivering the perfect skydiving adventure.
Byron Bay, Central Coast, Hunter Valley, Great Ocean Road, Melbourne, Yarra Valley, Perth, York, Rockingham
phone 1300 663 634 web www.skydive.com.au
Sage Cafe Restaurant
Located in the heart of Broadbeach. Food cooked exceptionally well with service that always exceeds your expectations.
phone (07) 5538 9938
address 5/20 Queensland Ave, Gold Coast QLD 4218
1two3 Mediterranean Dining & Lounge Bar
National ‘Award for Excellence 2012’ winner. There is a saying “You can’t please all of the people all of the time” ...we were wondering why not?
Breathtaking one hour flight over the Gold Coast and Hinterland, then enjoy a delicious 5 star Champagne buffet breakfast at the award winning Chelo’s Restaurant. Book now!
phone 1800 246 422
address 13 Lakeview Dr, Gold Coast QLD 4211
Yellowfin Seafood Restaurant
Situated in the hub of the popular Broadbeach dining precinct. Providing a wonderful open air venue to enjoy lunch and dinner all year round.
phone (07) 5504 5335
address 6/20 Queensland Ave, Broadbeach QLD 4218
Life Interiors and Replica Furniture
Contemporary furniture both residential and commercial buying direct from the manufacturer allowing great savings. Inhouse interior stylist provides free styling advice. Showrooms located in Waterloo and opening soon in Melbourne and Brisbane.
Greg Norman designed Championship course. Bookings essential.
phone (02) 4998 2208
address Vintage Drive, Rothbury NSW 2320, Australia
Your special so take advantage of the $50 discount on treatments 50min in length or more, (Mon-Fri). Call Member Services for Voucher. Terms and conditions apply.
phone (02) 4998 2500
address Vintage Drive, Rothbury NSW 2320, Australia
*The above benefits are provided by businesses by agreement with Accor Vacation Club. These benefits are available to Première Plus Members and, from time to time, may change or no
Tamburlaine Organic Wines
Tamburlaine is Australia’s largest producer of organic wines, established in 1966 in the renowned Pokolbin district of the Hunter Valley. Vineyard and winery tour including private tasting with organic cheese plate, 2 bottles of any 375ml or 750ml Tamburlaine wine to take home Normal Value $106 –Member rate $49.
phone (02) 4998 4200
address 358 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin, NSW 2320
Bookings must be made prior OR on day of check-in only.
Two Fat Blokes Gourmet Tours
Is a small tour company that has a true love of good food and great wines and the joy of sharing it with others.
phone 0414 316 859
address 1443 Wine Country Drive, Rothbury NSW 2320
visit www.twofatblokes.com.au
Timeout Adventures - Novotel Coffs Harbour
DEAL 1 9 holes Golf, 20min Segway Ride, 2hr Bike Hire PLUS Coffee.
DEAL 2 9 holes Golf, 20min Segway Ride, 2hr Bike Hire PLUS Action Zone and Waterballs OR Laser Clay.
$49*
$65*
DEAL 3 1hr Segway Tour through the resort, bush and beach. ONLY $39*
phone 1300 090 767
address CNR Pacific Highway and Bay Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450
Hot Canary Gourmet Meats
The Highlands most awarded butcher, 5% discount. Free delivery to Grand Mercure Bowral when ordering meat packs. Open 7 Days.
phone 02 48 622 089
address Corner Bowral & Station Street (opposite IGA), Bowral
Nature Finds You
Pamper yourself on holiday when staying in Melbourne arrange a massage, facial, waxing, tints and more. Open Mon-Sat. Bookings essential call 0412 104 696 Lina. By appointment only.
phone 0412 104 696
address Mezzanine Level, 2 Queen Street Melbourne, VIC, 3000
above benefits are provided by businesses by agreement with Accor Vacation
These
are
Bistro du Monde is a hidden gem located in a graffiti walled laneway opposite Grand Mercure Melbourne. Don’t miss out experiencing their amazing menu selection quiche, pastries, desserts to an amazing tapas dish, freshly made on the premises. Alfresco dining in tucked away Bligh Place, admire the artwork on the walls of the Parisian style cafe.
phone 03 9620 7177
address 10 Bligh Place, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Lounge 321
Lounge 321 located at our The Sebel Melbourne Flinders Lane property. Members are able to book small functions and events at Lounge 321 no charges apply.
phone 0412 104 696
address 321 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, VIC, 3000
to
Plus Members and, from time to time, may change or no longer be available. Please contact the providers directly for more information.
Bistro du Monde
Member Benefits
Jamieson Brewery Mansfield Zoo
Jamieson Brewery uses traditional brewing styles to give you the freshest, preservative free beers using no added sugars and Mountain Fresh Water. Located in Victoria’s High Country in a setting of Mountains and Rivers Make Jamieson Brewer your next destination. Free Brewery Tour most days at 12.30pm
phone (03) 5777 0515
web www.jamiesonbrewery.com.au
The Deck on High
Contemporary cuisine, offering a range of tapas. Located in Mansfield, a 10 minute drive from the Grand Mercure Pinnacle Valley Resort.
One of north east Victoria’s hidden secrets, with a large collection of exotic and native animals on 30 acres of picturesque parkland featuring lovely views across the Delatite Valley to Mt Buller.
phone (03) 5777 3576
address 1064 Mansfield-Wood Point Road, Mansfield, VIC 3722
phone 03 5775 1144
address 15/15 High St, Mansfield VIC 3722
Duckstein Brewery - Swan Valley and Saracen Estates Margaret River
Ambiance simply amazing – a touch of class. German style dining and premium hand crafted beer, set in the most pleasant surroundings.
phone 08 9296 0620
address Swan Rd, Henley Brook WA 6055
phone 08 9486 9410
address Level 10, 225 St Georges Tce, Perth WA 6000
Hahei Explorer Cathedral Cove Boat Tours
Venture into an awesome blowhole meet the marine life close up and hear stories of Maori encampments and so much more.
Sandalford Winery - Swan Valley
Founded in 1840, dine amongst the rustic ambience of limestone, wood and a grand open fire. Complimentary main course when another main course of equal value is purchased. PLUS 40% discount, view online our Accor Vacation Club portfolio.
phone 08 9379 9400
address Corner Meadow and Swan Streets, Guildford, WA 6055
Polynesian Spa Rotorua
Polynesian Spa Rotorua NZ voted top 10 world day spa resort, overlooking Lake Rotorua, relax and unwind in the hot mineral pools at Polynesian Spa. Cast your eyes to the hills in the distance and reflect on this tranquil volcanic landscape once not so peaceful. Clouds of steam arise from the lake from springs deep below the water’s surface.
phone 64 7 348 1328
address 1000 Hinemoa St, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
email info@haheiexplorer.co.nz
phone +64 7 866 3910
*The above benefits are provided by businesses
from time to time, may
Glass Bottom Boat Cathedral Cove Cruise
Come and explore the wonderful marine life on this unique 2 hour Eco adventure – keep your eye out for dolphins, penguins and NZ fur seals –don’t miss out!
email info@glassbottomboatwhitianga.co.nz
phone +64 7 867 1952
BOOKINGS
Snowshoeing and Heli-snowshoeing Tours
If you can walk you can snowshoe Wander through spectacular mountain scenery and enjoy the open spaces, fresh air and the natural world. Half and full day tours available.
Queenstown web www.snowshoeing.co.nz
email info@nzwalks.com
Challenge Rafting
Challenge Rafting operates exciting half-day trips on the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers. The Kawarau River provides an exhilarating trip for first time rafters. The Shotover River provides the challenge for those looking for extra excitement and thrills.
Queenstown web www.raft.co.nz
phone +64 3 442 7318 / 0900 423 836 (NZ only)
Wanaka Flightseeing
Offering flights from the famous Milford Sound to the spectacular West Coast Glaciers, Wanaka Flightseeing offers Flights of Discovery. Enjoy uninterrupted window viewing over the Southern Alps, remote Doubtful Sound and rugged Mount Cook– or combine a scenic jet boat safari on the Dart River. A booking bonus offers free admission to the NZ Fighter Pilots Museum in Wanaka.
web www.flightseeing.co.nz phone +64 3 249 8787
Air Fiordland
Scenic plane flights with Air Fiordland from Queenstown and Te Anau into Milford Sound. View the powerful and dramatic scenery of the Fiordland National Park from above and then from below on a boat cruise – the famous fly cruise fly package. Flight, coach and cruise options also available from Queenstown and Te Anau.
web www.airfiordland.com phone +64 3 442 3404
The Helicopter Line
From the icon locations of Mount Cook, Twizel, Franz Josef, Fox Glacier and Queenstown, The Helicopter Line can take you on a scenic flight to discover New Zealand’s National Parks, glaciers, mountains and lakes, often with a snow landing.
Queenstown web www.helicopter.co.nz
phone +64 3 752 0767
Milford Sound Scenic Flights
Milford Sound Scenic Flights is one of the region’s most experienced flightseeing operators, flying visitors to and from Milford Sound for over 20 years. All of our passengers have a window seat for uninterrupted viewing and our experienced pilots provide an informative commentary, highlighting points of interest along the way.
web www.milfordflights.co.nz
phone +64 3 442 3065
Mitre Peak Cruises
Discover the beauty of Milford Sound with Mitre Peak Cruises. Operating daily cruises, each two hour cruise ventures up the fiord out to the Tasman Sea. Explore cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs, rugged peaks, lush rainforest, seals, penguins and dolphins.
web www.mitrepeak.com phone +64 3 249 8110
Glacier Helicopters
Glacier Helicopters on the West Coast pioneered glacier and snow landings in New Zealand in 1970. Offering scenic helicopter flights that include a glacier landing enable visitors to interact and enjoy some of the most spectacular wonders of the natural world.
web www.glacierhelicopters.co.nz
phone +64 3 751 0803
change or no longer be available. Please contact the
Member Benefits
25%* discount ON TREATMENTS (min 60mins)
10%* discount ON BEAUTY (waxing & nail-care)
LeSpa at Sofitel
Pamper yourself when visiting Queenstown at LeSpa at Sofitel, a relaxing haven where mind, body and spirit unite. Recommend bookings made in advance. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion.
NZ NZ NZ NZ
BOOKINGS MUST BE MADE DIRECT
Wanaka River Journeys
Wanaka River Journeys, a unique half day wilderness jet boating adventure on the Matukituki River. See hanging glaciers, LOTR and Hobbit film locations and ice carved landscapes; enjoy local culture, a 50 minute forest walk and optional heli flight to the glaciers. More than a jet boat ride.
email info@wanakariverjourneys.co.nz
phone 0800 544 555 (within n Z)
15%* Discount
web www.sofitel.com/5688
You Vs Wild Queenstown
Now you can experience a little of what it’s like to survive off the land, with nothing but a knife and the few things. On this half day walk you will be introduced to the wilderness of Aotearoa, you’ll learn how to make a fire, how to build a bivouac shelter, what plants to eat, how to make a pain relief drink, how to find north the celestial way and how to filter water so that it’s safe to drink.
BOOKINGS MUST BE MADE DIRECT 10%* Discount
web www.youvswild.co.nz
email info@nzwalks.com
web www.wanakariverjourneys.co.nz
Bombay Palace Authentic Indian Food
Bombay Palace is a melting pot of Indian cuisine, presenting heady spices, fully flavoured curries and melt in your mouth simply sensational.
Queenstown and Invercargill
web www.bombay-palace.co.nz
*The above benefits are provided by businesses by agreement with Accor Vacation Club. These benefits are available to Première Plus Members and, from time to time, may change or no longer be available. Please contact the providers directly for more information.
Save it for the good stuff
With thanks to Europcar and the ongoing 10%* exclusive saving to Vacation Club members, you’ll have more money to put towards the good stuff like Gold Coast Theme Park tickets. Simply quote promo code 47674691 when making your reservation. 1300 13 13 90 europcar.com.au
Deposit
As an Interval member, the world is your oyster. And you can get to the pearl inside the oyster your perfect holiday by depositing your points Once you deposit, you’ll have the opportunity to travel to one of hundreds of resorts in more than 80 countries around the globe, including Australia and New Zealand And you’ll have two years from the time of your deposit to do it now that’s flexibility! And if you want to travel sooner rather than later, you’ll get even more value from your points through Interval’s Flexchange program. Why wait? Deposit today and see the world!
Join today and start experiencing the rich cultural diversity and culinary delights across 16 countries and 450 Accor hotels in Asia Pacific.
Member benefits include:
• Complimentary Night’s Accommodation
• Up to 50% Off Dining
• Minimum 10% off accommodation
• Red Hot Rooms
• Exclusive Member Website & Offers
• Partner Privileges
• Hotels in Asia Only - 15% Off Beverages
• PLUS enjoy a Silver Membership in Le
With the Le Club Accorhotels program, Accor rewards your loyalty at over 2,700 hotels ranging from luxury to budget: Sofitel, Pullman, MGallery, Grand Mercure, The Sebel, Novotel, Suite Novotel, Mercure, Adagio, ibis, ibis Styles, Adagio access and Thalassa sea & spa. Your loyalty card will enhance your travel experience in 90 countries.
We o er our me mber s exclusive produc t s and ser vice s including :
E xperienced consult ant s
, Va nua tu a nd
N or folk I sla nd
J uli a ha s r e ce n t l y s pe n t nine m on t hs t r ave lling
t h r oug hou t Eu r ope a nd a s a his tor y b u w i t h
a n in te r es t in for e ig n cul tu r es , c a n o e r s pe cia lis t ad v ice pa r t icula r l y af te r he r e x te nsi ve
jou r ney s t h r oug h I s r ae l , Tu r key, Rus sia , I t a l y,
Gr e e ce a nd Tu r key
A shle igh ha s b e e n a ke e n t r ave lle r since
child hood w he n s he li ve d ove r se a s w i t h he r f a m il y in B r u ne i S ince t he n s he ha s t r ave lle d
t h r oug h pa r t s of A sia , t he U K a nd t he S ou t h by mi x ing w i t h t he loc a ls a nd g a t he r ing insid e
si tes a nd culina r y t r e a su r es
S h ar i is t he s tor es cr uise g u r u a nd lis t s he r
f avou r i te d es t inat ion so f a r a s S ha ng ha i , w i t h t he U K , I t a l y, Fr a nce , S ing a por e , Ja pa n
a nd PN G a m ong ot he r t r ave l ad ve n tu r es
S he lis t s he r g r e a tes t a chieve m e n t to d a te a s
con q u e r ing t he f a m e d Ko kod a t r a ck a nd is ke e n to e ncou r age clie n t s to t a ke pa r t in t his
life cha ng ing ad ve n tu r e
A li’s love of t r ave l is ma tche d onl y by he r love of food . S o m e of he r u niq u e dining
e x p e r ie nces inclu d e dining a t L ing uine a i Fr u t t i
af te r a m e m or a b le d ay hik ing I t a l y ’s Cin q u e
Te r r e , e njoy ing ma ple - cu r e d ba con w hile c a m
• Consul t ant s w ho value you a s a member and s tr ive to ensur e you r eceive the bes t ser vice possible
• in B r isbane Ci t y
• Peace of mind wi th 24 - hour inter national emer genc y cus tomer a ssis t ance
Air f ares
• Flight Centr e’s Lowes t Air far e G uar antee
• No book ing fees for inter national and domes tic air far es
• Access to Flight Centr es exclusive Red L abel Far es
Accommodation
• 24 - hour accommodation deals thr ough the online Quick beds si te
• Access to discounted inter national and domes tic accommodation acr oss thousands of pr oper ties
Holiday Pack ages
• E xclusive holiday pack age deals to some of the wor ld ’s mos t popular des tinations
• Pack ages wi th ex tr a s including br eak fa s t , tr ans fer s , day tour s , on - boar d cr edi t s and spa tr eatment s
Tours
• E xclusive coach tour discount s and member depar tur es
• Gr eat value tour ing deals
Seasonal Calendar
Seasonal Calendar
2 Bedroom Apartment
Important Contacts
Member Services Monday to Friday 8:30am to 6:30pm AEST excluding National Public Holidays Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm AEST excluding National Public Holidays Level 2, Accor Vacation Club Building, 14 Edgewater Court, Robina QLD 4226 PO Box 3755, Robina Town Centre, QLD 4230 www.members.accorvacationclub.com.au
TOLL FREE
Telephone AUS 1300 76 14 14
Telephone NZ 0800 76 14 14
Telephone International +61 7 5595 3290
Press the following Options for • Interval International - exchange and point deposit inquiries - Press option 0
Club Reservations and Point Inquiries
Member Relations
Press option 1
Press option 2 • Accor Hotels Select Reservations
Press option 4 • Club Billings
Member Reservations msreservations@accorvacationclub.com.au
Member Relations info@accorvacationclub.com.au
Member Education workshops@accorvacationclub.com.au
Facsimile AUS 1300 76 17 17
Facsimile International +61 7 5595 3281
Accor Vacation Club Cruises Monday to Friday 7:30am to 6:00pm AEST excluding National Public Holidays Saturday 7:30am to 2:00pm AEST excluding National Public Holidays www.accorvacationclubcruises.com.au
TOLL FREE
Telephone AUS 1300 558 433
Telephone NZ 0800 558 433
Accor Vacation Club Billings
Billings Facsimile AUS 1300 76 13 43
Billings Facsimile International +61 7 5595 3282
Member Billings billing@accorvacationclub.com.au
APVC Finance
APVC Finance AUS 1800 446 513
APVC Finance NZ 0800 222 675
APVC Finance International +61 7 5501 7310
Amore Referral Program
Telephone AUS 1800 80 32 70
Telephone NZ 0800 001 707
Email referrals@accorvacationclub.com.au
A-Gift
Telephone AUS 1800 267 950
Telephone NZ 0800 222 670
Email agift@accorvacationclub.com.au
Membership Upgrades Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm, excluding National Public Holidays
Telephone AUS 1800 00 71 18
Telephone NZ 0800 00 71 89
Facsimile +61 7 5501 7351
Email upgrades@accorvacationclub.com.au
Accor Vacation Club
Travel by Flight Centre Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.00pm (AEST) By appointment only Saturdays 8.30am to 5.00pm (AEST) By appointment only C/Escape Travel Macarthur Central, Shop LG2, 255 Queen Street, Brisbane QLD 4000
Telephone AUS 1800 70 80 90
Telephone NZ 0800 451 997
International +61 7 3181 8900
Email travel@accorvacationclub.com.au
Interval International Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6.30pm (AEST) Saturdays 8.30am to 5.00pm (AEST)
