Vacations Magazine is an Accor Vacation Club Members’ Publication released biannually updating Members on new and exciting developments within the Club.
Vacations Magazine started out in 2002 as “Vacations of a Lifetime Newsletter” consisting of only 4 pages.
Dear Member,
As another year ends, it is my pleasure to report to you on what has been a very busy and productive 2017 at Accor Vacation Club.
Firstly, thank you to you all for the feedback you have given me throughout the course of this year. I appreciate your comments and enjoy hearing from you both through my direct e-mail account and also via our Facebook and Instagram pages. These mediums as well as our own Member website are without doubt the best way to keep up with what is happening in your Club.
It is also great to see so many of you attending our Member workshop and events, which continue to enjoy record attendances across the region.
It is very exciting to see the Club inventory grow as we add both more locations, and inventory at existing sites. At the start of 2018 we will have increased the amount of apartments available to Members at The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach to 21 and we plan to continue to add more apartments as demand dictates. If you haven’t been to this spectacular Club property in such a magical location, then I highly recommend that you do so.
We have also added our 24th Club property location, the Mercure Gold Coast, perfectly located for you to enjoy everything the Gold Coast has to offer. Within this edition of Vacations Magazine, there is a feature page on our newest addition to your Club.
We continue to refurbish our portfolio of properties to the highest standard. In the second half of this year alone our refurbishment team have completed a full or soft refurbishment at The Links Lady Bay Resort, The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach, The Sebel Bowral Heritage Park, The Sebel Pinnacle Apartments Darling Harbour, Grand Mercure Basildene Manor and The Sebel Melbourne
Flinders Lane. If you would like to see these resorts before you travel or book your accommodation, you can now view the majority of our property videos on our YouTube channel.
This year we celebrated a huge milestone for the Accor Hotel Select program surpassing the 50,000th room night stay. The new Accor Hotel Select Asia and Elite programs have also been very well received which has been great to see.
We were also very happy this year to reach a record number of Club Reservations. This year, we surpassed 30,000 Club bookings, the highest we have ever seen in a single year. To complement this, next year we have big plans for our Member Service department. During the course of 2018 we will increase our staffing significantly as we start to increase the amount of options that can be booked directly through your Gold Coast based dedicated Member Service Team.
Wishing you all wonderful festive season
Happy New Year
And as always, Happy Holidays
Craig Wood Chief Executive Officer Accor Vacation Club CEO@accorvacationclub.com.au
over 350 cruises booked to the value of $2.5 million
Accor Hotels Select
Accor Hotels Select Asia
Accor Hotels Select ELITE
over 9,600 room nights
Favourite Destinations
Australian Cruises, South Pacific & European River Cruises
OVER 2,600 Members attended a TOTAL of 19 Workshops
The following Club properties were refurbished in 2017
to choose from
ELITE
Accor Hotels Select Elite allows Traveller and Corporate Première Plus Members access to over 30 Sofitels, Pullmans and MGallery properties throughout South East Asia and the Pacific.
Call your friendly Member Services team to find out more or to make a booking.
Accor Hotels Select Asia allows Platinum, Traveller and Corporate Première Plus Members access to over 25 Novotel, Mercure and ibis properties throughout South East Asia.
Let me just say, straight up, that no one really cares what kind of cabin you are in. By the time you and your friends are meeting up for drinks and dinner, where you sleep is not really going to be much of a concern. And if the potential new friends do have some sort of an issue, are they really the sort of people that you are likely to hang out with?
Generally speaking though, every cabin has its advantages and disadvantages. But when it comes down to it, it’s all about size. When it comes to choosing, size matters to some, not so much to others.
Read on to try out these cabins for size…
Pick a Cabin, Any Cabin! board
Some cruise lines have finally figured out that not everyone is a couple, AND that not everyone likes to share with a stranger…or pay a higher premium in the form of a single supplement just, to stay by themselves in a twin cabin. While many river cruises have offered random single cabins with no single supplement for a while, ocean cruises have been slow to come to the party. Norwegian Cruise Lines jumped on-board early in 2010 with their studio cabins – specifically designed for one. Smaller than a twin room, with a single or small double bed, en-suite and storage, more often in an interior or ocean-view cabin with a shared “singles” space nearby. Other cruise lines have seen the light (so to speak) and now accommodate singles better. If you want to avoid the single supplement, simply ask your consultant for recommendations.
Most inside cabins can be described as cosy or cheap and cheerful. And depending on whether you are going twin share or triple or quad share depends on how cosy it is going to be. The cabin size can vary depending on where the cabin is positioned on the ship, and sometimes have “interesting” floor-plans when placed into the various nooks and cranny’s (aka “spare” corners) of a cruise ship.
Modern day demands for more hotel-like amenities have seen the addition of compact en-suites with showers, more storage in the form of a wardrobe, desk, dresser or small table, either a chair or small lounge, and the ever-present TV. Nice, neat and comfy cosy.
The main difference with an inside cabin is that there is no natural light, and for some this can be a little disconcerting. In an attempt to alleviate perception of being closed in, or fears of the dark Royal Caribbean have installed a “Virtual Balcony”, giving a projected, real-time view of the ocean and destinations outside.
Other cruise lines have classed cabins with obstructed views or interior promenade views as an inside cabin, both of which bring filtered light into the cabin.
It has also been suggested that people who feel queasy just watching the horizon feel better when they are in an inside cabin, because it really feels like being in an interior room. Personally, I have had the best night’s sleep in a snugly dark inside cabin – which was just perfect after a full day of swimming, relaxing and dancing until midnight.
The popular bonus for an inside cabin is their lower price point – and really, you only use the cabin to sleep in, right?
I can see the sea! You have a real view to the real ocean in an ocean-view cabin. This comes via a porthole (usually round or square) or various sizes of window, some are even floor to ceiling! And whilst you can see through the window, they more often than not are fixed and cannot be opened. And it is good to note that some cabins will have obstructed views being close to the lifeboats or tenders.
Again all the mod cons are provided, similar to an inside cabin, hotel-like amenities, and with twin, triple and quad share variations. The cabin size could be similar to an inside cabin through to larger, roomier sizes with more regular floor-plans (normally placed alongside the outer hull of the ship).
Many cruisers feel that they need to see the sea while in their cabin, it is a cruise after all! However, for those who don’t particularly mind (after all there is a whole ship of ocean views) an inside cabin may be a more viable option.
The fresh open air and sea breeze is what is on offer in a balcony cabin. Light floods through full-height glass sliding doors that lead to your own private balcony. Just perfect for getting away from it all and relaxing on personal sun loungers, drinking champagne or dining just the two of you.
Balcony cabins are extremely popular because they offer the privacy of an outdoor space and they are often combined with a little extra interior space. Most balcony cabins are configured as twin share with a queen bed (or twin beds), and on some ships, a triple or quad share balcony cabin is available. Each has similar features with regard to wardrobe and TV, with roomier bathrooms, dressing and lounge areas.
And while the fare is higher, it is the benefit of watching the sun set over the open sea horizon from your own balcony that draws cruisers in. Essentially, more space, more light, more air!
A premium cabin or suite comes with all the perks, and size, and extra amenities. While the other cabins have showers, with a suite you are treated to a deluxe soaking tub as well as a shower… sometimes even an ultra-luxury jetted-spa, and with the higher end suites you could even find an outdoor spa tub on your balcony as well. Dining and dressing areas, larger wardrobes, in fact everything is bigger and better – bigger rooms, larger balcony, a better TV – some suites even have a coffee machine.
The benefits of staying in a suite are as many and varied as there are different cruise lines. They could range from dining privileges in specialty restaurants, priority boarding/ disembarking, invitations to the captain’s cocktail party, access to VIP areas, pools and dining, fully stocked in-room bar replenished daily, dedicated entertainment seating through to complimentary concierge services and more.
The ultimate bonus, of course, is a butler. Available on some cruise lines, a butler might unpack/pack your suitcases, make restaurant reservations, deliver morning and afternoon tea, canapés, personally set up and deliver balcony dining for two, organise laundry, run you a bath, get you a Martini and any of your guests a cocktail at 4pm every day…make sure to ask your cruise consultant when booking if your suite has a butler – it is definitely something to look forward to. From mini-suites through family suites, multi-roomed suites to owners’ and penthouse suites, again you will find the price may be higher, but think of all those luxuries and space and personal touches and an extra roomy deluxe cabin. Is this the cruise of a lifetime? Are you celebrating a milestone or anniversary? Do you want this cruise to be special? After all, you’re worth that little extra, aren’t you?
In a nutshell, multiple cabins are available on any cruise ship, from the comfortable inside cabins to an ocean-view giving you glimpses of the sea. A balcony cabin will give you your own personal space to relax outdoors, and the space and views expand as you move up into the suite category, as do the extra amenities and inclusions. Whatever style of accommodation you choose on your cruise - an inside cabin or a full-on suite everyone has access to all of the daily fun, great variety of food and entertainment offered on-board and destination experiences. And remember this…even for the most discerning guest life on-board is pretty much the same for everyone when they are asleep!
An Accor Vacation Club consultant is waiting to advise which cabin style will suit your needs and desires. Simply search for your next cruise holiday at www.accorvacationclubcruises.com.au or call and book your cabin today on AU 1300 558 433 or NZ 0800 558 433.
For most people, travel is never just about the destination. It really is the journey that matters in life, not least of all our experiences, and the people we meet along the way.
The characters we share our travels with certainly enrich our lives, broaden our horizons, and live on in the memories we create while on vacation.
Of course, sometimes, particularly as we get older, the thought of striking up a conversation with someone we do not know can be a little daunting. After all, as youngsters we were taught not to talk
to strangers. Now, as adults, when we travel the world it becomes pretty much mandatory to talk to random people, both destination locals and fellow travellers.
Communication is the key to forging new friendships and finding common ground along the way. Seeking out directions to that must-see tourist attraction, chatting with a fellow passenger to pass the time in
transit or on a long bus journey, or perhaps sharing an amazing view and magic moments on-board a luxury river cruise. They all present opportunities to engage with new people. The question is then, how do you start a conversation with a complete stranger, without feeling awkward?
Here are a few tips to help you find words and help your conversations flow…
Presenting a positive, open attitude with a simple smile is a great start. People are more likely to be receptive to a happy, friendly person.
Be confident and introduce yourself first. Chances are, the other person is as shy as you! “Hi, I’m…” works like a magnet, and instantly invites and attracts conversation. Not only is it a nice icebreaker, but it takes the pressure off the other person, who may also be wondering how to approach a new conversation. You should also have a follow-up question should it not be reciprocated. The natural follow up… “What’s your name?”
Once you have a name to place to a face, be sure to use it as soon as you can within the conversation. It shows that you are listening, and that you are genuinely focussed on your new acquaintance. It’s also one of those tricks
to help remember a name – using a name three times as soon as you hear it, helps to lock it into your memory. If you can somehow mention your own name, it may assist the other person to remember too. For example, “My wife loves cruising. John, she said, let’s cruise to the Greek Isles, and here we are!”
Thinking up an opening question should be easy – right? You would think so, but many find it difficult, not knowing what to ask or say in those awkward first moments of eye contact. The rule of thumb is to stick to small talk. Keep to general topics, and try to steer away from in-depth, volatile or overly personal questions, especially on a first meeting. Here are a few ideas to trial.
A Universal Opener: Try mentioning the weather. Or asking what their favourite sport is and which team they follow. How about asking “What are you reading, watching, listening to?” Don’t forget that some of the most simple questions are still the most effective. “Do
you have the time? Have I met you before? Is this seat taken?”
The Leading Obvious: When you are travelling away from home, basic enquiries such as “Where are you from? What do you do? Do you travel often? Or, “Have you cruised before - why did you choose this cruise?”
Destination Discoverers: Some amazing destinations and sights are natural conversation starters! “Paris is just lovely isn’t it?” “Did you get a photo of the Giraffe?” “Have you been to New York before?” Do you know where the cathedral is? Can I tag along?” Take a highlight and turn it into a talking point.
Food and Drink: In today’s world, talking about cuisine is almost as popular as actually indulging in it. “Have you eaten here before? I’m not sure what to eat, what are you thinking?” An enquiry about their recommendation is also a great start too. “Have you tried the lobster? The steak is delicious isn’t it? I just love a cocktail, what’s in yours? What are you having for dessert?”
A Good Joke: Humour always works, whether it’s funny or not. A good groaner will put everyone in the right mood, while a hilarious joke, funny anecdote or comic situation told well will have everyone in fits of laughter, and get the camaraderie off to a great start. It is however important to be aware that not everyone has the same sense of humour, or finds the same things funny, so keep it positive and “clean”. After all, these are people you have barely met. Give them time to warm up to you before you launch into the story about Aunt Mary flushing her false teeth.
A Second Meeting: Now that you have a conversational footing, however brief, in a second or third meeting you can afford to get a little more personal. Begin again with similar questions about before delving into peoples’ lives – What’s your story? You’ve had how many husbands? Do you have any pets? Do you have children/ grandchildren? What are their names?
Conversations are relatively easy to start with a single person, however it may take more effort to keep the conversation lively, or moving on. A group may feel daunting at first, though there are a few more benefits. It’s easier to maintain and change topics with 2-3 extra people contributing. It’s also simpler to move on from a group and mingle with others without pressure of being “stuck”. It is also more likely that you will be introduced to others via a group (see below).
It’s one of the simplest ways to begin a conversation – you get someone else to start it! You might think this was an unlikely occurrence when you are travelling, however there are many who could effect an introduction. Your cruise/
tour group leader or your fellow travellers are an ideal resource, as are those you meet while travelling. A good “introducer” will give some clues for the people being introduced. For example, “This is John, he is staying in the same hotel as us”… or, “This is Bob and Sue - they have just arrived from Melbourne.”
People like to talk. Really! You just have to get them started. Choose a unique talking point, something that is of interest, and if it’s a shared experience, then all the better! Discover what they are passionate about (get visual clues from what they are wearing? Reading? Doing?). Or it could be something unusual, unexpected like your tour bus getting a flat tyre or getting caught up
in a parade or an elephant wanders by. Something out of the ordinary is a conversation waiting to happen.
Topics of mild complaint can also bring out shared interests, like the weather being too hot/cold/windy/rainy or “interesting” decor in a restaurant or both being stuck in a long queue.
(Note to self: Starting a conversation based around strong negative feelings can wear thin very quickly. If you want to continue the conversation, turn it around to a positive, feel good and go from there.)
This sounds odd, but it works. Icebreakers can be physical. Wearing something interesting or unusual can often start a conversation all on its own. You know the type of people with a point of difference that “stand out” of the crowd - green hair, bright pink scarf with multi-coloured tassels, a frilly umbrella, tattoos, cultural outfits, blue suede shoes etc. Same goes for bringing a “prop” – a baby, child or pet is ideal. Possibly difficult while travelling, but think about it. People willingly ask about names and ages, if a child is enjoying itself, wants an ice cream, or details about the pet’s breeding, feeding and walks. It is natural to gravitate towards people who stand out in the crowd, and if you actually want people to speak to you, you can be the one to stand out or bring a physical icebreaker.
At the end of the day, talking to strangers can be a little awkward at times, especially in those first few moments. That’s just life. Your only real challenge is to break that ice and get the conversation flowing from there.
Experience will show that most people want to chat with like-minded travellers. They want to share their experiences and are happy make new friends. Because that is what we are doing when starting a new conversation. Meeting people. Making new friends. And while some will turn out to be travelling buddies for the short term, there will be those golden few who will become lifelong friends. And that is worth the effort don’t you think?
Contact Accor Vacation Club Cruises for all your cruise queries, if you need information or inspiration for your next cruise. AUS 1300 558 433 | NZ 0800 558 433
For families, a cruise can be one of the most affordable holidays around. Remember when it was just the two of you? You could pick up and go at the last minute, now of course, there is a family to consider and you need to do a lot more planning. And taking the entire family on a cruising holiday can be a little
daunting. However, on a cruise you will find that accommodation, meals and entertainment are already included within the one cruise fare. So it seems most of the big family logistics are already taken care of. And, you can save money on the fare…
(or Family Cruising 101)
Actually, it is more than possible. Most cruise lines offer, from time to time, a Kids Cruise Free offer. The cruise fare is free, with the kids only paying port charges and taxes (and everyone pays these). Usually the kids must either travel with a paying adult, and/or cruise in the same cabin as the third or fourth passenger with 2 paying adults. The fine print depends on the promotion and the cruise line. Still, the cruise is free for the kids, so you definitely save.
Other cruise line promotions let you save by including a wide range of bonus offers – from additional on-board credit, included drinks or dining packages, free cabin upgrades, wifi packages, or great discounts on third and fourth passengers.
How do you win? Do your research, keep in touch with your cruise consultant, sign up for newsletters to keep you in the loop and make sure to get in quick, as soon as you see a promotion, because all the other families out there will be looking and booking too.
(and parents too!)
Appealing to every Australian child (and their parents too!) may seem like a mammoth task. But many cruise lines have taken up the challenge and have set their sights firmly on the family cruising market by offering multiple benefits and extra savings to entice kids (and their parents) on-board. Consider the following, who can and do offer your family a great all-round cruising experience. So, let’s check them out…
(ages 6 months and up)
What is not to love? Kung Fu Panda, Shrek and Princess Fiona, the animals from Madagascar and all the DreamWorks characters are waiting on-board to provide endless fun – there is even a parade! Daily activities at the Kid’s Club - Adventure Ocean (ages 3-17) includes the enjoyment of ice skating, mini golf, table tennis, sports court (basketball, volleyball, soccer, tennis) and for the more adventurous rock climbing wall, a Flowrider for surfing, Zipline, and there is always the pool or waterpark. Each
ocean-view, balcony cabins, bunk beds and one,
(cruising from ages 6 months and up; if 3 or more consecutive days at sea, from 12
With Norwegian Jewel heading to Australia in November 2017 – February 2018, keep an eye out for any special promotions available for NCL’s inaugural Australian season. Jewel will be sailing out of Sydney to Australian
prides itself on being a family focussed cruise line and its Splash Academy (range of age appropriate
months-12) and Entourage Program (for teens aged 13-17) will see the kids fully
entertained. Everything from specific children’s menus, kid’s-only pool, movie theatre, computer centre, disco’s, games tournaments, trivia and more are readily available. Interconnecting cabins are, as with all cruise lines, rare as hen’s teeth, however if you get in early they are both spacious and family friendly.
(Australian & New Zealand domestic cruising from ages 6 months and up; All other itineraries 12 months and up)
Voted Best Cruise Line for Families by Cruise Passenger Magazine Readers’ Choice Awards 2016.
Australia’s home cruise line has always gone out of its way to satisfy the family market, with almost a third of passengers being family or multi-generational groups. Sailing weekly to the South Pacific Islands and cruises throughout Australia and New Zealand, P&O is seen as an ideal family choice with 4 supervised age specific Kids & Teen clubs (ages 2-17). Cabin configurations cater for up to four in standard staterooms, with interconnecting cabins joining quad cabins, twin or a combination of the two to suit. P&O’s newest ships Pacific Explorer, Eden and Aria, as well as the Jewel and Dawn all have the P&O Edge Adventure Park including a wild ride on a zipline from top deck down, funnel climb, flying fox, walk the plank, rock walls, bungee, segways, laser tag and more. Include the waterparks and slides and your kids won’t know what to do first!
(Domestic cruising from ages 6 months and up; International cruises from 12 months and up)
Carnival began cruising in Australia with Carnival Spirit in 2012 followed by Carnival Legend soon after. Cruising to the South Pacific Islands and limited Australia-New Zealand runs, Carnival has definitely made it’s mark in Australian family cruising market by positioning itself as the “Fun Ship”. On-board Carnival Legend Dr Seuss reigns, with all the wacky characters come to life to provide a range of kid friendly activities. Both ships have the mainstay Kid’s Club - Camp Ocean, including supervised youth programs for music, sports, karaoke, dance and a variety of late night activities. Carnival Cruises have partnered with Hasbro, offering a variety of live, interactive Hasbro games like trivial pursuit, Connect 4, Cluedo and more. And Carnival also boasts an all-ages “WaterWorks” waterpark as well as providing for thrill seekers with a wild ride on the steepest and fastest water slide at sea – Green Thunder. Cabin configurations feature a wide range of interconnecting cabins (43 sets on-board Spirit & 53 sets on-board Legend!) and larger family suites.
All four cruise lines sail from Australia to the South Pacific Islands, New Zealand, Asia and beyond. Additionally Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises are also tuning in to the family market, offering great deals for the younger passenger, especially throughout school holiday periods. Seasonal specials will also appeal over Christmas, New Year and Easter – favourite holiday times for most families.
It is an exciting time for the Australian cruising industry, and we really are spoiled for choice. Currently there are ships sailing out of every state in Australia. P&O Cruises have ships cruising Australian ports and coastlines all year round. Carnival Spirit home ports in Sydney and her sister ship Legend sails Australian waters throughout the summer. Similarly cruising the summer season are: Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Solstice; Princess Cruises’ Emerald Princess, Diamond Princess, Golden Princess and Sun Princess; Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas; Holland America’s MS Noordam and Maasdam. Whilst, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jewel is currently heading to Australia later this year for her inaugural Australian season. With many other cruise lines also touching base in Australia throughout the year, families have never had such a wide choice of cruising holidays!
And, if you are cruising while overseas two ideal cruise lines catering for families are MSC Cruises and DISNEY:
(From ages 0 and up - although it is recommended that medical advice be sought before booking for infants up to 12 months)
Specialises in cruising Europe and the Mediterranean, and offer KIDS CRUISE FREE ALL YEAR ROUND for under 12’s (and sometimes have cruise free promotions for under 18’s!). Along with all the regular benefits, each ship offers luxury, resort style facilities with new innovative interconnecting cabins that allow for up to three staterooms to interconnect, accommodating as many as ten guests. MSC’s kid-friendly fun includes aqua parks, swimming pools, water slides, 4D cinema, high-tech game consoles, and a superb supervised Kid’s Club for making new friends.
(From ages 6 months and up; Transatlantic and Panama Canal cruises from 12 months and up) Cruising mainly from and around the Americas, Disney offers their own private Caribbean Island, and have recently extended their reach into Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. Mickey and his friends welcome you and your kids onboard for a whole fiesta of Disney-inspired fun. All ages can engage with Star Wars at sea, meet the super hero’s from Marvel Comics, Beauty and the Beast, party like a Pirate of the Caribbean, icedancing shows based on Frozen, go “underwater” with Nemo, Peter Pan, dress up like Cinderella or Snow White and so much more. There is simply no end to making your child’s dream come true (and a few of your own). Kid’s Club care for babies as young as 6 months old through to teens aged 17 years, with age-appropriate activities to keep everyone happy. Available cabins include room for families of three, four, five and more. Suites include 1 and 2 bedrooms giving families room to move – the perfect option if you have teens.
Remember that most cruise lines welcome children on-board, although there will be age restrictions and sometimes even limitations to how many children may get onboard at any one time. These can include how old a child must be to get on-board, entry to the Kid’s Club with/without parental supervision,
Mercure Gold Coast Resort, Accor Vacation Club Apartments
3 floors of fully refurbished rooms
(Access to the hotel’s extensive Resort facilities, including a day spa, the neighbouring Palm Meadows golf course and driving range.)
The Mercure is the perfect property to enjoy everything the Gold Coast has to offer from the sanctuary of a peaceful location. The tropical gardens and relaxing outlook over the golfing greens inspired a fresh and simple design style which allows guests to relax after a day out. The property itself already boasts a beautifully refurbished bar and dining area with a grand foyer for the guests to enjoy which opens out to just one of the tropical pools. Inside the large rooms, the bathrooms have been modernised and opened up with wide frame less glass showers, wall to wall mirrors and extra bench space and storage
in the vanity. The beautiful large scale artworks, specified from a local Gold Coast Wall Art Designer also reflect the surrounds and add an element of luxury to the already generous rooms.
If you think it’s time to visit – or revisit – the iconic ‘coast with the most’, then prepare to be inspired.
Famed for its bright lights, breathtaking beaches and theme parks, the Gold Coast is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most popular hotspots. The destination has certainly come a long way since it first surfed the beach culture wave to fame back in the 1950s, evolving into the diverse, high-end, holiday haven it is today.
Whether you prefer scenic hinterland drives, epic beach breaks, paddle boarding, or taking in an action-packed calendar of cultural and sporting events (not least of all the 2018 Commonwealth Games), there is no better time than now to rediscover the Gold Coast.
Surfers Paradise comfortably maintains its position as the good-times hub of the Gold Coast. The new foreshore is bustling throughout the day with walkers, cyclists and skateboarders taking advantage of this beach front boulevard vista overlooking the surf and sand. Like the Surfers Paradise of yesteryear, beach side shopping, dining, bars and clubs continually offer the complete holiday experience all in one compact destination package.
The Gold Coast is not only a ‘Surfers Paradise’, but a golfers’ paradise too, boasting more than 40 of Australia’s finest golf courses. Nestled between Lakelands and Palm Meadows golf courses, Accor Vacation Club’s newest address, Mercure Gold Coast Resort, is the perfect Resort for a golf holiday, partnering with five golf courses all within a ten-minute drive from the Resort. Play at one course, or enjoy five different locations. Guests can take advantage of Mercure Gold Coast Resort’s booking service to arrange tee times at their preferred course. If you are after some professional advice to up your game, check out The Golf School at Palm Meadows Driving Range.
Arguably the best way to take in the magnificent Gold Coast is from above. A twilight experience on Australia’s highest external building climb, Skypoint, is a mustdo, lasting 90 minutes from the beginning to the end and featuring an awe-inspiring, open-air adventure atop one of Queensland’s most recognised land marks – the iconic Q1 Building. The Skypoint Observation Deck is available for those who wish to watch their friends and family climb, without donning the harness themselves! Rising 270m into the air, SkyPoint Climb is Australia’s highest external building climb and provides unparalleled 3600 views of the Gold Coast and beyond. For a less pulse racing, but equally stunning, view of the coast from above, a hot air balloon ride is also unforgettable. Balloon Aloft Gold Coast has been showcasing the Gold Coast and its spectacular scenery for over 20 years. Departing from the Mercure Gold Coast Resort, you will have the chance to float like a cloud as you witness the sunrise climbing over the stunning panorama, from high-rises and shimmering waterways to the hinterland.
The increasing sophistication of the region has brought a serve of top-notch restaurants and cafes for visitors to try. Broadbeach, Mermaid Beach, and Surfers Paradise all offer an exceptional choice of eateries, from prizewinning pizza places and gelato bars to fine dining options, such as ocean facing The Fish House at Burleigh Beach. In a league of its own, The Fish House is credited with introducing a style of dining that put the Gold Coast on the food map nationally and sparked the beginning of the dining revolution. Palm Beach is the latest emerging dining precinct of the Gold Coast. The once sleepy suburb is now the new destination for discerning diners. For those who want to taste test the GC themselves, there are a number of locally led food and wine tours available.
The Gold Coast offers a fascinating and diverse array of markets to satisfy every need, from art and craft to fashion, seasonable fresh produce, gifts and knick knacks. A trip to any one of the Gold Coast’s markets can mean a shopping bag full of edible souvenirs, gourmet products and other delights. For early risers, the Gold Coast’s bustling markets serve up delicious paddock-to-plate inspired breakfasts from 6.00am at Palm Beach, Bundall and Helensvale. For those staying in Surfers Paradise, The Esplanade Surfers Paradise offers market stalls between 4pm and 9pm every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night.
Springbrook and Mt Tamborine are just two highlights of the local hinterland and rainforest region that form the beating green heart of the Gold Coast. Ideal for day trips (a 45 minute drive from the tourist strip), the hinterland offers numerous walking trails, or for those who prefer to cruise, breathtaking scenic drives. You will see waterfalls that tumble down into the depths of the canyon, cool rock creeks that flow into swimming holes and some of the oldest trees in Australia. For a change of pace, there are several local wineries to stop by including Tamborine’s Witches Falls cellar door, a brewery and even a mountainside distillery. Add to this award-winning restaurants, art galleries, sweeping coastal views and that delicious mix of old and new-world charm for a perfect day out.
It’s easy to forget just how widespread the Gold Coast actually is, so planning ahead is important, especially when driving between the beaches and hinterland, from Coolangatta airport in the South, or to the theme parks in the north.
Ready to release your inner child? The Gold Coast is home to a literal world of theme parks – think Movie World, Dream World, Sea World, and even White Water World. And let’s not forget that family favourite, Wet & Wild for the summer season, and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (where a koala cuddle is almost obligatory). With so many aqua attractions splashed around the Gold Coast, it can be hard to find a beach that best suits children. Tallebudgera Creek offers a sandy bottomed lagoon, crystal waters and plenty of shade for afternoon lazing. For kids a little older and eager to learn, Currumbin Alley Surf School is perfect for a familyfriendly surf session on some of the best beginner waves on the GC. When heading out with the kids seems too hard, keep in mind that Accor Vacation Club’s Turtle Beach Resort on Mermaid Beach offers a holiday kids club for 4-12 year olds. Accor Vacation Club Apartments to explore:
Apartments at the Links Lady Bay offer everything a guest could desire. These apartments boast a full kitchen, extra large bathroom, full lounge, dining area and master bedroom.
The extensive refurbishment touched on every component of Accor Vacation Club’s 15 upscale apartments located within the hotel. The result - exceptional quality for Accor Vacation Club Members, and a new standard in upscale accommodation for the destination.
Influenced by direct Member feedback, the renovation of The Links Lady Bay Accor Vacation Club
Apartments notably included major work within the bathrooms, in order to provide a separate bath and shower for increased accessibility and a more luxurious feel for guests. Other key design features included the addition of intricate Master bedroom bedheads above new Sleepmaker beds, custom-made timber and marble bedside tables and drawers, diamond buttoning on the upholstery, ornate bathroom mirrors and LED lit iridescent sheer curtains.
Funky and different is the concept that has been applied to the room makeover at The Sebel Sydney Manly Beach. As each room has a different layout, the design concept was required to be flexible enough to suit each different layout while also accommodating the requirements of our Members.
Inspired by the eclectic vibe of the hotel restaurant, the design used bright colours and tropical prints to give the rooms a fun feel. The fabrics used have been custom designed and then custom made especially for this property incorporating the desired colour combinations to tie in with the multi-colour rug, and the amber translucent desk chair. The bedhead and bedside tables feature custom coloured, woven timber accent panels, and if you look closely you will notice this woven look has also been applied to the custom made lamp shades that feature a palm leaf design which also ties back to the print of the fabrics.
Accor Vacation Club has also completed soft refurbishments at another three Club Properties: The Grand Mercure Basildene Manor, The Sebel Melbourne Flinders Lane and The Sebel Darling Harbour The Pinnacle.
Proving that the outdoor environment is just as worthy as the inside experience or a hotel destination. A significant outdoor enhancement program was undertaken at the Grand Mercure Basildene Manor to better showcase its sprawling gardens and ensure that its outdoor living spaces remain top of mind for Members and guests.
Timber decking has been replaced with sturdy stainless steel, while new lighting – including ambient fairy light installations throughout the estate’s ancient trees – now feature, to extend the appeal of the property’s outdoor spaces from dusk to enchanted evenings spent outdoors.
A rooftop balcony makeover atop The Sebel Darling Harbour The Pinnacle is helping Members make the most of Sydney’s best kept vantage point this summer. The redesign has enhanced the already sublime outdoor space on the roof top, to now offer a modern new entertainment area and kitchen for those who want to stay and play.
Complete with a built-in barbecue and ledge, the improved balcony is an ideal place to admire the stunning city views on offer while indulging in an early-bird breakfast or relaxed afternoon drinks. Other functional additions include a freshlook awning and external painting work to protect the area against the elements, while new bench seating around the alcove maximises the balcony for entertaining.
A series of soft enhancements at The Sebel Melbourne Flinders Lane, included new, lighter painting, to balance the deeper colours used by for the carpet and other furnishings in each guest room.
Fresh features and ornaments were used to update each space, including new mirrored glass in bathrooms to help guarantee a closer shave for male guests, and sophisticated new pendant lighting in living areas.
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It took nearly a year of preparation. As soon as the booking period of 12 months opened up, the arrangements were made in May 2016 to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary with our whole Australian family. This included 2 daughters and their offspring: 3 granddaughters and 5 grandsons, ranging in age from 26 years to 7 years. Also, this had to cover the question of geography: our oldest daughter lives in Queensland (Caboolture) while the youngest lives close to our home at the NSW Central Coast (San Remo).
So, the choice was made to spend a week in May 2017 at the Turtle Beach Resort at Mermaid Beach and then have a celebration dinner at the Mercure Resort at Palm Meadows on the actual day of our wedding (Saturday 20th May).
It turned out to be a celebration indeed. First of all, the 3 apartments booked at the Turtle Beach resort turned out to be just right. Sleeping accommodation was catered for by the 2 twobedroom apartments for our daughters and a one-bedroom apartment for my wife and myself. Although the entertainment at the resort was
highly appreciated by our youngest grandson (the 7 year old), especially the Splash Zone, the main attraction for the more adult family members was The Deck with enough choice in drinks and food to satisfy the most hungry (and thirsty).
It took a little while to get used to the maze of stairwells, paths and car parking, because all the rooms were spread out between stairwells 2, 5 and 12, until it was found that the easiest and quickest way from one room to another was via the car park.
The week flew by amidst visits to shopping centres (Robina, Harbour Town, Pacific Fair, Surfers Paradise and so on) and an entertaining trip to Tamborine Mountain. As luck would have it, there was only one day of rain (and then only in the morning) while the remaining days made the Gold Coast live up to its reputation of sunshine and mild weather.
Then of course the highlight of the week: dinner at the Mercure Resort. The choice of food was excellent and catered for the tastes of everyone (including the 7 year old – hurray!). Even the drinks were greatly appreciated as per Australian tradition.
So, that was the week that was. The heaps of photos that were taken will remain in the family as a great memory of our 50th wedding anniversary, I’m sure.
Janine and Paul W – Members of the Accor Premiere Vacation Club since 2004.
Our Members have been very busy... Here’s what they have had to say about their holidays...
Everything about Manly was perfect
I just wanted to make contact and thank you for the booking you made on my behalf for which I used on Saturday night at The Sebel.
Can I say what a stunning room it was, and how I found it difficult to leave it’s opulence yesterday morning.
Everything about it was perfect, and I can understand why this establishment has won consecutive awards.
The presentation of the apartment when I opened the twin doors to enter was amazing.
I made a point of letting reception know my thoughts on departure yesterday, so I hope the relevant people get the feedback.
Sometimes we forget to acknowledge what a great job some people do in their everyday work; i.e. the cleaning staff. (it was spotless).
So again, my thanks Lucy for setting me up in such a gorgeous environment and allowing me a better than expected experience.
Enjoy the rest of the day, Gary R.
P.S. Could you tell me how much that particular room (402) would be for a Fri/Sat. stay and also just a Saturday night stay.
The friends I had there for drinks prior to going out were so impressed they were enquiring as to the affordability.
Dear Member Services
My family and I love the Accor Vacation Club. We recently enjoyed 7 nights in a 2 bedroom apartment at Turtle Beach Resort. It is in a great location. We enjoyed amazing weather which allowed us to walk a short distance to the beach every day. My son aged 3 loved building sand castles.
The resort itself is amazing for families. Heated pools, waterslides and a waterpark with life guard, but the little kids pools is what my son and I loved best.
The apartments were superb. Parking a breeze. The only difficult thing was 3 flights of stairs carrying luggage.
We are currently enjoying a few nights at the Grand Mercure at The Vintage in the Hunter Valley.
Again 5 stars for location and rooms. So close to some great wineries, Hunter Valley chocolate, the zoo, gardens and cheese shop.
The facilities are great. So many things to do. Close to golf and massage.
Thank you
Kind regards Matthew
B
As an Interval Gold or Interval Platinum member, you can use your Accor Vacation Club points for a stay at one of more than 3,000 resorts around the world. And now with hotel exchange — the latest addition to our Interval Options benefit — you can trade towards a hotel stay or condominium-style accommodation sourced directly by Interval, giving you access to thousands of additional properties. Visit the heart of a cosmopolitan city or unwind in the mountains — it’s up to you!
Hotel exchange is only available online, so go to intervalworld.com and create a profile to take advantage of the power of this great new benefit!
With Interval Gold membership, you’ll enjoy incredible benefits, including year-round discounts, valuable services and opportunities:
n SAVINGS ON hotels, restaurants, shopping and entertainment, at home and abroad
n AU$25/NZ$25 OFF every Getaway
n INTERVAL OPTIONS — Use your points towards a cruise, hotel stay, tour, guided holiday or a unique Interval Experiences adventure
n SHORTSTAY EXCHANGE — For stays of one to six nights
n VIP CONCIERGE — Access to personal assistance 24/7
n HERTZ GOLD PLUS REWARDS® — Earn bonus points for up to two free weekend rental days
Take advantage of all that your Interval Gold membership has to offer! Just sign in to intervalworld.com or call an Interval International® holiday counsellor today!*
TIP
Member Services Monday to Friday 8:00am to 7:00pm AEST excluding National Public Holidays Saturday 8:30am to 4:30pm 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.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 - Press option 1
• Member Services - Press option 2
• Club Billings - Press option 3
• Accor Hotels Select Reservations - Press option 4
Member Reservations msreservations@accorvacationclub.com.au
Member Services 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 3293
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
Interval International Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6.30pm (AEST) Saturdays 8.30am to 5.00pm (AEST)
Telephone AUS 0011 800 4683 7825
Telephone NZ 00 800 4683 7825
Facsimile AUS 1800 265 592
Facsimile NZ 0800 880 342 Email anzmemberservices@intervalintl.com
Europcar
Telephone AUS 1300 65 95 45 (Quote 47674691)
Telephone NZ 0800 80 01 15 (Quote 47674691)
Telephone International +61 3 9330 6160
Email reservations@europcar.com.au
Accor Hotels
Accor Reservation Services AUS 1300 88 08 86
Accor Reservation Services NZ 0800 44 44 22 www.Accorhotels.com
Accor Plus
Telephone AUS 1300 36 36 37
Telephone NZ 0800 44 09 82 www.accorplus.com
Le Club Accorhotels
Telephone AUS +61 2 8023 8787 http://www.accorhotels.com/gb/leclub
