|
|
 |
|
| Features |
Vacation Variations
Maryann Hammers
05/03/2004
|
According to Amber Raleigh, Exclusive Resorts’ vice president
of marketing, such fees represent a better investment than buying or renting
comparable residences. “For what you pay in property taxes on a single
$2.5-million home, you have access to multiple multimillion-dollar homes,” she
explains. “Anyone who spends at least $20,000 a year in [renting] luxury travel
accommodations can justify paying the annual dues.”
Destination flexibility
is the key draw. Membership clubs trumpet their variety of accommodations in
premier ski, beach and golf resort locations, as well as in major cities
throughout the world. Private Retreats by Abercrombie & Kent provides
members with access to yachts, houseboats, private aircraft, tours and safaris
as well. Exclusive Resorts offers its members stays in a suite aboard
ResidenSea’s The World, a luxury liner that continuously circumnavigates the
globe.
An extra measure of service is another lure. While the amenities that
vacationers enjoy at condo-hotels and residence clubs may be impressive, leading
destination clubs take often take personal service to the next level. “We take
care of you at whatever level you desire,” says Tom Fulton, Abercrombie &
Kent’s executive vice president of sales and marketing. Typically,
destination clubs allow members up to 14 consecutive days in each location, so
this option is not suited to those of us who like to stay in our vacation home
for frequent or months-long visits. Nor is it geared toward those seeking an
investment opportunity. “This is for members who want to stay in exquisitely
furnished, fabulous residences in multiple destinations across the world, with
no maintenance, high overhead or rigid schedules to adhere to,” Fulton says.
“This is a lifestyle investment.” Additional Information
 A Conversation with Mr. Case
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
