FALL/WINTER 2017
EXPERIENCE
Endless Summer
SoCal
IN
Check Out
Up & Coming
Oceanside
INSIDE ISSUE THE
GREETING.............................................................................................................4
From Nigel Lobo, Chief Operating Officer PICTURE PERFECT.................................................................................................5 YOU SPOKE, WE ACTED.......................................................................................6-7
Your feedback in action. WHAT’S NEW......................................................................................................8-9
Find out fun and exciting ways to connect with us and your home resort. BE EPIC MOMENTS..........................................................................................10-11
Recognizing heartfelt service and going above and beyond for owners. ASSOCIATE SPOTLIGHT....................................................................................12-13
Meet Ryan Gaut: Enthusiastic Director of Fun and Engagement at Grand Pacific Palisades who’s dedicated to helping make your vacation memorable! MEET KEN+CINDY............................................................................................14-17
Take the journey with Ken & Cindy as they ride the train to day trip to Del Mar and Oceanside, finding new, fun things to do in your favorite SoCal coastal communities. TABLE TALK....................................................................................................18-19
Gather your loved ones for quality time and good food this holiday season.
INSIDE ISSUE THE
DIVE INTO DEL MAR.......................................................................................20-23
Step back in time where the turf meets the surf in the playground to the stars. RESORT SPOTLIGHT........................................................................................24-25
Discover the perfect spot on the sand when you stay at Southern California Beach Club. ANNUAL OWNERS CELEBRATION.....................................................................26-27
Families “Sip n’ Share” their favorite traditions and memories. GPR CARES.....................................................................................................28-33
What Matters to You, Matters to Us. YOU ASK, WE ANSWER....................................................................................34-35
Your top 5 GPX questions answered. MARK YOUR CALENDAR..................................................................................36-37
From the shores of Tahoe to the beach vibes of San Diego and Hawaii, you’ll never run out of things to do. DIY ACTIVITIES................................................................................................38-39
Fun family-friendly do-it-yourself activities you can do while on vacation. WE ARE NAPA VALLEY..........................................................................................40
G R E E TI N G S ! It’s that time of year when we gather our loved ones to celebrate what we’re thankful for and to cherish the time we have together. At Grand Pacific Resorts we are passionate about Enriching Lives by Creating Experiences Worth Sharing. From the simple things like, cooking a Thanksgiving meal in your condo, to planning a day trip to explore the destinations you already love. If sunshine is appealing this holiday season, this edition of Time Together is sure to inspire you. Consider embarking on a train ride along the scenic California coast that takes you from the vibrant city of Carlsbad to the enchanting seaside community of Del Mar (p. 14-17), (and discover why Old Hollywood used to call Del Mar their second home (p. 20-23). You can also see the exciting resurgence Oceanside is having as a vacation destination and get a taste of the new farm-to-table eateries popping up all over this charming beach community (p. 16). During your travels we hope you can feel the heartfelt service at each of our resorts. It’s thanks to our talented and dedicated team of associates that we’re able to provide vacations for more than 70,000 families each year. Find out how our associates turn vacations into getaways, and get to know Grand Pacific Palisades Resort and Hotel’s Director of Fun and Engagement, who is dedicated to helping owners like you make memories that’ll last a lifetime (p. 12-13). There’s so much to be thankful for in 2017. We welcomed Capistrano Surfside Inn in San Juan Capistrano and Kauai Beach Villas on the island of Kauai into our family of resorts and expanded your access to Grand Pacific Exchange (GPX) with a new website (p. 34-35). We also grew our commitment to giving back in the communities we serve, along with donating to the charities that matter to you, because what matters to our owners, matters to us (p. 28-33). It’s an exciting time to be a timeshare owner with us as we explore and grow together. As always, your feedback is valued. Please take a few moments to share your thoughts about this issue and how we can make Time Together and your ownership more enriching to you and your loved ones. You’ll find the link to a survey on the back page. In the spirit of the holidays I want to say thank you on behalf of Grand Pacific Resorts for allowing us to be your timeshare management company and to share the gift of gratitude with you this holiday season. Sincerely,
Nigel Lobo, Chief Operating Officer 4
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TA HOE Experience It.
Click Play !
RECORD BREAKING SNOWFALL WINTER 2016
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You Spoke, We Acted In the Spring/Summer issue, we included a giveaway for your thoughts. Congratulations to Vincent H, owner at Makai Club Resort, for winning a week at Riverpointe Napa Valley Resort in Napa Valley, California! We loved reading your feedback! Be sure to submit your thoughts about what you’d like to see more of in future issues of Time Together for a chance to win 1 week at the Southern California Beach Club, plus a whale watching charter for two. BE EPIC MOMENTS
What other ways can we enrich your vacation ownership? We own at Grand Pacific Palisades and they have always made us feel so welcome and try to accommodate any requests we may have. We always look forward to our stay! -Rosemary T. We take pride in our teams throughout the Grand Pacific Resorts family and love hearing that your stay at Grand Pacific Palisades is always so wonderful! You can learn more about the amazing staff at your resort by checking out this issue’s Associate Spotlight on page 12 and 13. Your Activities Director Ryan Gaut enjoys making sure your vacations are not only relaxing but filled with exciting things to do while you vacation. Thank you for owning with us! PICTURE PERFECT
What did you enjoy most in this issue of Time Together? I definitely enjoyed the videos. This magazine makes the colorful pictures jump off the page and the reader anxious to see the next video or page for information. Keep up the good work! -Kay P. We’re thrilled to hear that! We work hard to make your digital lifestyle magazine as engaging and informative as possible. Be sure to check out pages 14 and 24 for more great videos to inspire your next vacation in Southern California. 6
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S O . C A L . S TAT E O F M I N D
What would you like to see in future issues? Articles on Southern California Beach Club and information on the new local bars and restaurants that are going up in Oceanside. - Crystal C. You’re in luck! This issue highlights our Southern California resorts, including a resort spotlight on Southern California Beach Club on page 25. Also, turn to page 16 and 24 to discover new and exciting restaurants and things to do in Oceanside. A LWAY S H E R E F O R YO U
What are other ways we can enrich your vacation ownership? I really need to learn more about how I can take better advantage of my ownership. Should I make an appointment to meet with someone? What are other ways I can stay informed? - Wanda B. We always want to make sure you’re well informed and taking advantage of all of your exclusive benefits that come with ownership. If you’d like more information about Grand Pacific Exchange (GPX), your exclusive exchange network, turn to page 34 and 35 to check out our helpful webinar. You can also go online to check out your Owners Community for helpful tips, or call a Vacation Specialist at (888) 477-6967 and they can answer any questions you might have.
D E L I C I O U S LY V E R S AT I L E
What did you enjoy most in this issue of Time Together? I loved Mary’s Strawberry Margarita Recipe! It’s already printed and ready to use for this weekend’s backyard barbecue. - Crystal C. That’s fantastic! We love hearing that owners are making the recipes we include in Time Together. Be sure to head to pages 18 and 19 to find out how to make a delicious appetizer and dessert with Tahoe Oil & Spice's famous baslsamic at your next party, or if you’re looking for a fun DIY activity to add to your next vacation be sure to check out page 38 and 39. T I M E TOG E T HE R : FA L L / W I N TER 2017
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w e N W H AT ' S
From proudly becoming leaders in sustainable hospitality practices to finding more ways to enhance your vacation ownership, let’s enjoy the journey together... WE R ECYCLE YO U R US E D AM E N ITI E S FO R A G O O D CAUS E
At Grand Pacific Resorts we consider environmental sustainability efforts one of our most important endeavors and are committed to keeping the places you love to vacation as beautiful as ever! In 2016 we launched a partnership with Clean the World to recycle partially used amenities and keep waste out of landfills. Toiletries left behind are recycled and turned into hygiene kits that are given to impoverished communities across the world, helping prevent millions of hygiene-related illnesses. We encourage guests to leave their partially used amenities, like shampoos and soaps, in the bathroom rather than tossing in the trash. This helps our housekeepers who diligently sort through recyclables and get the used products to Clean the World. Over the last year Clean the World turned waste from Grand Pacific Resorts into nearly 8,000 bars of soap. We’re incredibly proud to partner with an organization dedicated to improving global health and reducing waste in landfills.
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W H E R E V E R YO U WA N T T O G O , L E T G P X TA K E YO U T H E R E
Grand Pacific Exchange (GPX) has always been your exclusive exchange network that gives you more access to more resorts without a membership fee. We hope you’ve had the opportunity to check out the NEW website. To help you navigate the site and make it easier to book rental weeks, deposits and exchanges, we created an on-demand video guiding you through all the new features. Visit GPXvacations.com to discover your next vacation.
Be sure to flip to pg. 34-35 where we answer your top GPX questions. TA K E A S E L F I E AT YO U R H O M E R E S O R T
Everyone loves a great photo and what better way to capture your favorite vacation memories than taking a selfie at your home resort with your friends and loved ones! We recently rolled out “Selfie Spots” in idyllic locations at our resorts. We hope you’ll take the opportunity to head to these locations to take your perfect vacation photo. Be sure to check-in on Facebook or use the hashtag on Instagram when posting on social media so we can share your memories with other owners!
Experience It. Click Play !
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BE EPIC Our values at Grand Pacific Resorts—Balance, Empowerment, Enthusiasm, Passion, Integrity, and Consistency —shape a culture where people come first and hospitality is the cornerstone of everything we do. Extraordinary acts of service are taking place every day at our resorts, so we created BE EPIC Moments as a way to capture and share them with you. Check out some of the inspiring stories about heartfelt hospitality below and be sure to tell us about your own!
B
ALANCE // Loren M., Grand Pacific Vacation Services From concept to execution Loren has been invaluable in bringing the new GPX website to life. In addition to his great work behind the scenes he also volunteered to help take calls about the new website. His commitment to create a great owner experience is truly inspiring!! -Casey B.
E
MPOWERMENT // Robert C., Hanalei Bay Resort An owner was trying to buy a soda from the vending machine but it wasn’t accepting their dollar bills and they were really craving a refreshing soda. Robert went above and beyond by going to the grocery store to surprise them by delivering a six pack of the soda they wanted to their condo! -Larry & Beth T.
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Moments NTHUSIASM // Ryan G., Grand Pacific Palisades Resort & Hotel Ryan has amazing energy and enthusiasm! He’s also fantastic with kids and is a perfect advocate for the resort. Make sure you keep him around because his enthusiasm is infectious! -Todd E.
P
ASSION // Donald, Carlsbad Seapointe Resort Donald responded to our request to fix our jammed ceiling fan and helped with the bedroom television. He was quick to resolve these issues in minutes and was so friendly! We chatted with him about the property and how proud he is of his workplace. He did an amazing job and we enjoyed meeting him. He helped make our stay that much more enjoyable. He’s an asset to the resort. Thank you for your passionate service! -Amy B.
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NTEGRITY // Martin M., Coronado Beach Resort Martin rushed to help a guest who had fallen over in her wheelchair. He made sure she was okay and provided additional assistance. He’s awesome! -Maria B.
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ONSISTENCY // Darwin A., Hanalei Bay Resort Darwin is the most pleasant employee at Hanalei Bay Resort! He is always smiling and gives a kind greeting to everyone he comes in contact with. He maintains our common areas and you always know when he’s working because everything is spotless and smells wonderful! We appreciate Darwin and his amazingly consistent positive attitude and hard work! -Maycia M. T I M E TOG E T H E R : FA L L / W I N T E R 2017
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ASSOCIATE
Spotlight “The best thing about memories is making them!”
W
herever fun is concerned at Grand Pacific Palisades it probably has Ryan Gaut’s name on it. As Director of Fun and Engagement, Ryan is known for his ability to put smiles on the faces of owners and guests of any age with his infectious energy and endless list of activities he coordinates.
Ryan, whose spirited personality makes an impression on everyone he meets, has been a valuable member of the Grand Pacific Resorts family for seven years. He started as a bellman at Grand Pacific Palisades, worked his way up to Front Desk Manager at Carlsbad Seapointe Resort and then returned to the Palisades team as Director of Fun and Engagement. During that time he’s developed enduring relationships with owners and guests - so much that owners John and Mary track him down the moment they arrive for their vacation at Grand Pacific Palisades to make sure he’s ready to help make their vacation memorable! “Guest interaction is definitely my favorite,” Ryan said when asked what he thought the best part of his job is. “I love the hospitality aspect. I love seeing people having fun and enjoying their vacation, and I could never ask for anything more.” Ryan’s hospitality journey has taken him to nearly every reach of the vacationing experience and that knowledge has given him the ability to plan an exciting and robust activities schedule for guests of all ages. He’s always looking to elevate the activities offered at the resort. When getting to know guests he enjoys asking them what their favorite activity is either at Grand Pacific Palisades or on other vacations. Ryan isn’t shy when it comes to making changes to the activities schedule if it enriches the vacation experience. “My favorite activity has got to be s’mores. I have such a blast,” gushes Ryan about his activities schedule. “We get about 75 to 100 guests around the fire pit within an hour during the summer and I love it. What’s so great about it is it brings everyone together. Guests gather to just hang out with each other and it gives me the opportunity to chat and get to know them.”
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Experience It.
Click Play !
Along with planning ‘fun’ for his day job, Ryan loves partaking in fun outside of work too! He enjoys playing sports with friends, trying the newest restaurant or brewery, and of course, vacationing! With an upcoming trip planned to Costa Rica this Director of Fun and Engagement is looking forward to trying a brand new list of thrilling activities on his travels.
"I really do believe in our core purpose of enriching lives by creating experiences worth sharing. I love helping to make memories with owners, and I feel lucky that I get to do that every day.” If you find yourself at Grand Pacific Palisades Resort & Hotel be sure to stop by the Activities Center to meet Ryan. There’s a 100% chance he’ll be there to greet you with a big smile and at the ready to make your vacation experience memorable!
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MKen+Cindy EET Ken and Cindy Muhich, from Scottsdale Arizona, have owned with Grand Pacific Resorts since 1996, starting with Carlsbad Seapointe Resort where they took family vacations with their daughters. The memories they created through the years not only inspired them to buy two more weeks at Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort and Coronado Beach Resort, but they also gifted their Carlsbad Seapointe ownership to one of their daughters as she started a family of her own and look forward to continuing that tradition as their family grows.
“The nice part about gifting our ownership to our daughter is that it keeps our traditions going and encourages our grandkids to do the same. The kids always look forward to our summer weeks in Coronado and Carlsbad each year, so much so they start talking about it in December!” Nearing retirement, Ken and Cindy enjoy their SoCal getaways where they explore the destinations they already love, eager to find new and exciting things to do with friends they’ve made at their home resorts. They also love the family time they get with their ten grandkids that all look forward to visiting them year after year in Carlsbad and Coronado, so much so that it’s become a family tradition!
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D AY T R I P P I N G T O D E L M A R F R O M C A R L S B A D
There’s always more to see and do in the destinations were you already love to vacation. Watch Ken and Cindy take a day trip to Del Mar from the Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort. It’s as simple as taking the short stroll to the Carlsbad Village Train station to the Coaster for a scenic ride along the California coastline. Get inspired to take your next SoCal vacation as Ken and Cindy explore the enchanting seaside community of Del Mar and make a delightful stop at the Temecula Olive Oil Company for a tasting.
O C E A N S I D E I S H AV I N G A ( B I G ) M O M E N T
Oceanside is experiencing a resurgence as a destination with the addition of numerous hip and upscale restaurants, entertainment venues and shops. The classic Southern California beach town is also home to many historical attractions like Mission Luis Rey and California’s longest wooden pier. Experience Oceanside’s charming, new look through Ken and Cindy’s lens as they take the coaster from Carlsbad. From the delicious farm-to-table urban eatery, Local Tap House, to a fun soap making class at Mr. B’s, there’s so much to do and see in Oceanside, and it only continues to get better!
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Experience It. Click Play !
"You Feel Like You Are Special When You Arrive... They make the week special. They always welcome us like old friends each year."
"Coronado Beach Resort is surely our happy place" Ken and Cindy’s Favorite Traditions/Must Do’s: 1. Beach Days with their grandkids 2. Romantic walks on the beach 3. Farmers market 4. Spending time with the friends they’ve made through the years with other owners and local shop keepers.
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TABLE TALK WE LOVE Tahoe Oil & Spice IN TRUCKEE FOR INTRODUCING US TO THIS SIMPLE YET DELECTABLE DELIGHT
This deliciously versatile Cinnamon Pear Infused Dark Balsamic has a rich wonderful flavor reminiscent of a warm pear pie and is perfect for all occasions. The comforting flavor of cinnamon combined with the ripe pear creates a balsamic that’s at home in salad dressings and desserts alike. Think walnuts, blue cheese, and pears in a mixed arugula and spinach salad. Or make a quick appetizer dish with a dried apricot, topped with a bit of goat cheese, and an almond on top - then drizzle with this balsamic. Heaven!
Appetizer 1. Your favorite fruit seed and nut cracker 2. Sharp white cheddar cheese 3. Pear slices 4. Drizzle! 18
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Dessert 1. French Vanilla Bean Ice Cream 2. Sliced Strawberries
Experience It.
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3. Drizzle!
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DIVE INTO
DEL MAR
D
el Mar is rich with beauty and history. Since the legendary day of Hollywood’s golden years, Del Mar has been a top destination for movie stars as well as those who have a love of the luxurious resort life and stunning seaside bluffs. With pristine beaches, award-winning cuisine, and English Tudor architecture, Del Mar could easily fit right into a quaint European hillside nestled on the coast. History of Del Mar Convinced that the area, soon to become Del Mar, was “the most attractive place on the entire coast,” Theodore Loop, a railroad engineer from New York, traveled to Southern California to build a railroad connecting Los Angeles and San Diego. The original train tracks were laid in the middle of Del Mar in 1882. In the same year, Loop met a successful rancher, Jacob Shell Taylor. Taylor and Loop were both captivated by the stunning seaside area and recognized the perfect development opportunity. Loop was a visionary and had high hopes for the area, wanting to draw visitors far and wide. He built forty small houses, two school houses, observation tower, a train depot and a water system. Ready to elevate Del Mar into a vacation destination he soon founded the village of Del Mar in 1886 and developed the area’s first seaside resort, “Casa Del Mar,” establishing Del Mar as an idyllic getaway on the Southern California Coast. After five years of bustling success and development, Jacob Taylor woke to the smell of smoke in 1889 in his hotel room. After evacuating guests to their safety the hotel burned down two hours later. Taylor said he’d return to rebuild the hotel but unfortunately he moved to Texas, leaving behind the town he helped found. But hope was on the horizon for Del Mar …
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The Big Boom In the early 1900’s the South Coast Land Company purchased a majority of the land in Del Mar and had big plans for redevelopment. The first project for the developer was the hotel called the “Stratford Inn”. They hired prominent Los Angeles architect John C. Austin to build the new hotel on the hill overlooking the beach. Today, L’Auberge Del Mar, a luxury hotel sits on this land. On March 9, 1909 the Stratford Inn opened for business with glamorous fan-fare. By 1910, Del Mar began drawing the attention of Hollywood stars of the silent film days that were attracted to Del Mar’s elegant appeal and its beautiful bluffs along the ocean. During the 20’s and 30’s Del Mar continued to experience tremendous growth and development. It was during this time that buildings were starting to be designed to match the English Tudor architecture that the area is known for today.
LEFT: Coming along the home stretch at the Del Mar Racetrack & Fairgrounds in 1940 // Photo Provided by Del Mar Historical Society
Horse Racing 101: Across the Board: Originated
Del Mar Racetrack & Fairgrounds
around 1903 as a betting term.
Picture it, July 3, 1937 and famous crooner, Bing Crosby, is there to greet fans at the grand opening of the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club racetrack! Crosby was convinced by William A. Quigley, a former football player and successful stockbroker, to invest in the racetrack which was not far from Crosby’s home and stable in Rancho Santa Fe. Crosby agreed to commit his time, money and energy to the project, and sure enough his undeniable charm and A-List friends helped turn the Del Mar racetrack into the must-see event of Southern California. He soon brought friends and actors, Pat O'Brien, who was elected vice president, and comedian Oliver Hardy, onto the board. World War II From 1942 through 1944 Del Mar experienced its “dark” period as the U.S. entered into World War II. During this time the races stopped and the grounds were used by the military to train Marines, and then as a manufacturing site for B-17 bombers.
Wagering across the board means to bet on one horse finish in either first, second, or third place. Home Stretch: A term also known as the home straight appearing around 1841 refers to the final length, or stretch, of the racetrack. Scratch: To withdraw a horse from a race
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Playground of the Stars A new crop of Hollywood arrived in 1948 after World War II, turning The Village of Del Mar into a “playground of the stars”. With the close proximity to Los Angeles, traveling to Del Mar was an easy trip and became a summer tradition for many who were drawn to the beautiful seaside town and its luxurious offerings. Bing Crosby often invited his friends to Del Mar when he saw them on set or on the Hollywood back lot. If you attended the races during the summer you might find yourself bumping into Buster Keaton, Rita Hayworth, Dorothy Lamour, W. C. Fields, Paulette Goddard, Edgar Bergen, June Haver, Ann Miller, Don Ameche, Ava Gardner, Red Skelton and, of course, Bing Crosby and Pat O'Brien. Del Mar Racetrack Still Has Hollywood Roots Today, Joe Harper is the president and CEO of the Del Mar Thoroughbred club and has held the reins there for four decades. Harper fits right into the vintage glamor of Del Mar since he’s the grandson of legendary film director Cecil B. DeMille and grew up in the Hollywood limelight. He would accompany his grandfather on movie sets and even had walk-on parts in a couple of Oscar winning movies during his childhood, and also grew up around horses. Now he oversees racetrack operations. In his current position he works with jockeys and horses, schmoozes with celebrities, and has helped transform Del Mar racing into a must-do summer event.
ABOVE: A day at the races // Photo Provided by Del Mar Historical Society
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ABOVE: Bill Quigley (left) Bing Crosby (middle) and Pat O'Brien (right) at The Turf Club // Photo Provided by Del Mar Historical Society
ABOVE: Bing Crosby and Dorothy Lamour enjoying a day at the Del Mar Racetrack // Photo Provided by Del Mar Historical Society
ABOVE: Lucille Ball (left) and her husband Desi Arnaz (right) enjoying a day at the Del Mar Fairgrounds // Photo Provided by Del Mar Historical Society
Famous Residents For decades Del Mar’s racing season has drawn Hollywood celebrities including Jimmy Durante, Lucy and Desi Arnaz, Burt Bacharach, and Angie Dickenson who all built homes in Del Mar during its hayday. With its vintage coastal charm, natural elegance, and deep connection to the history of San Diego, Del Mar still remains home to many professional athletes and celebrities including professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, NFL quarterbacks Aaron Rogers and Drew Brees, and the lead singer of the band Journey, Steve Perry, just to name a few! Del Mar Story Time In the 1950’s Lucille Ball, American actress and comedienne, and husband, Desi Arnaz, Cuban-born American actor and producer, most notably known for their on-screen marriage in the American sitcom I Love Lucy, lived in Del Mar right along the beach. Desi was an avid patron at the Del Mar race track and often brought Lucy with him, although Lucy was never a huge fan of his betting habits at the track. To counter his betting and to cause a laugh, Lucy would bet $2 on every horse in a race so when Desi lost and turned to her to ask, “Did you win?” she could reply “Yes, I sure did!” to the chagrin of her loving husband at the time. Indulge in the relaxing resort life in Del Mar when you use your owner benefits of exchange or rental to stay at Wave Crest Resort or Villa L’Auberge nested along the stunning seaside bluffs, or vacation in Carlsbad and take the train for a day trip to see why old Hollywood called this beautiful beach community their second home. T I M E TOG E T H E R : FA L L / W I N T E R 2017
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Experience It.
Click Play !
SOCAL’S HIDDEN GEM
Discover Oceanside!
Experience the exciting resurgence Oceanside is having by stopping by the California Welcome Center, Visit Oceanside! Receive discount tickets to your favorite Southern California amusements or get excellent tips on where to visit in Oceanside from the passionate team of volunteers ready to make your SoCal vacation in Oceanside epic! 24
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RESORT SPOTLIGHT
SCBC G O L D E N S TAT E O F M I N D AT S O U T H E R N C A L I F O R N I A B E A C H C L U B
Nestled in the heart of Oceanside, where the only thing between you and the sand is “The Strand,” Southern California Beach Club is the quintessential beachfront resort. This charming beach town is bursting with casual surfer vibes, delicious new restaurants and breweries, and year-round idyllic sunsets. It’s time you watch the golden glow of the sun set over the horizon on the Pacific Ocean, all just steps away from Southern California Beach Club. Each studio and one-and-two bedroom condo includes a spacious floor plan complete with a living room, flat screen television and Wi-Fi, and a fully equipped kitchen; making it the perfect place to gather your loved ones for a beach getaway. The beach themed interiors and airy accommodations reflect the cool charm of Oceanside. And if you’re looking to let the sea breeze run through your hair, there’s nothing better than borrowing a complimentary bike from the resort and cruising down The Strand. Along with being a short stroll from the Oceanside Pier, you’re minutes away from the growing downtown area that’s chock-full of great food and drink choices. From seafood favorites and local craft beer, to hip artisan farm-to-table eats and delectable wine tastings, plus so much more! Once you’ve tasted the best of SoCal, experience Oceanside’s movie history by channeling your inner “Maverick” with a visit to the house from Top Gun just down the road. Expand the horizons of your SoCal vacation by taking the Coaster train, all within walking distance from the resort. The train gives passengers picturesque ocean views as you travel along the California coast, making it the perfect reason to take an unforgettable day trip down south to the shores of Del Mar or to the many attractions in San Diego. With all the SoCal possibilities, make Southern California Beach Club your home away from home.
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Owners
Celebration
ANNUAL
ROUND UP
Year after year, we love capturing owners sharing stories and traditions along with insider tips about vacationing at their home resort. Explore this round-up of stories from Sip N’ Share events that popped-up in 2017 throughout the family of Grand Pacific Resorts. We look forward to seeing you in 2018!
Experience It. Click Play !
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Experience It. Click Play !
ce It. n e i r e p x E y! Click Pla
Let’s Keep in Touch Another way to stay connected with your home resort is on Facebook and Instagram. We’re constantly updating your resort’s pages with photos, videos, activities, and blogs so you’re always part of the fun with your home away from home.
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WHAT MATTERS TO YOU, MATTERS TO US! 1 5T H A N N U A L C H R I S T E L H O U S E G O L F T O U R N A M E N T
Grand Pacific Resorts Helps ‘Drive out Poverty’ by Raising Over $50,000! We’ve been an avid supporter of Christel House International and we’re honored to host the organization’s signature fundraiser each year. At the 15th Annual RCI Christel House Open - held June 2017 at the Shadowridge Country Club in Vista, California - we raised over $50,000 to help transform the lives of impoverished children around the world. “Grand Pacific Resorts has hosted the California tournament site of the Christel House Open since 2005,” said Christel DeHaan, Christel House International Founder and CEO. “We are enormously grateful to Grand Pacific Resorts and its associates for their dedication and commitment to making the world a better place. The lives of many children and their families are significantly better as a result.” We took our reach to the next level this year by gaining the support of ABC network affiliate in San Diego, 10News, where Grand Pacific Resorts Co-President, David Brown, and Director of Creative Services, Renee Wagner, met with Anchor/Reporter Jason Martinez to raise awareness for the fundraiser leading up to the event. Through social media, the local news broadcast - along with the attendance of 100 golfers, a silent auction and the generous contributions of sponsors - we raised over $50,000 for Christel House International. One hundred percent of the money raised helps transform the lives of impoverished youth by providing them with education and tools to become leaders in their communities. “This is our 12th year being one of eleven host cities for this fundraiser and we’re always honored to represent the West Coast,” said David Brown. “I’m especially proud of our team for taking the initiative to find even more ways to raise awareness for this special cause. The more eyes and ears we can get Christel House’s mission in front of, the better. I can’t wait to see what more we can accomplish next year!” Read more about our commitment to giving back through our long-standing partnership with Christel House International in our previous issue of Time Together. We met Rosa, a Christel House graduate on the path to success, whose passion and determination inspired us to find more ways to give back! 28
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NORTH COUNTY COMMUNITY SERVICES
We teamed up with North County Community Services (NCCS) for the second time to volunteer at their three-quarter acre garden dedicated to producing fresh, organic produce for preschoolers in Oceanside, California. Over 40 leadership team members worked with students at the local preschool preparing ground beds, planting seeds and painting birdhouses. They dedicated time and labors of love to beautify the garden and school space.
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Experience It.
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One of the biggest impacts the community outreach had was the large trench that was dug to accommodate a new electrical line. The line was needed for a walk-in refrigerator the school will be receiving with the help of a $2,500 donation from Grand Pacific Resorts. The new walk-in refrigerator is a game changer for NCCS. “We were able to accomplish what one person does in six weeks within just six hours,” Bianca B., Farm Manager, said with a big smile. “This new walk-in fridge will help us reduce waste and allow us to start selling produce to the local community at a weekly market, which will help us financially sustain this program.” We’re thrilled that all volunteer hours and the donation help the NCCS community garden program thrive. It’s also a great opportunity to encourage our associates to be empowered members of the community. Grand Pacific Resorts looks forward to more opportunities to partner with NCCS again! It was an incredible team building experience and the interactions with students and relationships we’ve forged with Bianca and other volunteers has been inspiring!
ABOVE: Images from the Golf Tournament Fundraiser // David Brown + Renee Wagner spreading awareness on TV // GPVS volunteers at NCCS community garden
“I think it’s enriching not only to the kids we touch, but to the community and to each of us to get to hang out in this capacity,” said Bryan Boyd, Manager of Associate Engagement. “I think it’s a rare thing that companies do and I’m honored to be a part of it.” T I M E TOG E T H E R : FA L L / W I N T E R 2017
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ADVENTURE RISK CHALLENGE Empowering Underserved Youth through Integrating literacy and Wilderness Experiences in Northern California
We love supporting causes that matter to our owners, and Adventure Risk Challenge (ARC) came out on top the second quarter of our giving contest thanks to you! ARC is dedicated to improving academic skills and introducing youth to a range of natural environments and wilderness experiences to build the confidence they need to envision and accomplish goals, succeed in high school, attend college and become engaged, empowered citizens. The organization received the most votes during our quarterly giving contest – earning $2,500 to help fund the exciting and extensive list of activities they provide to students. “We’re thrilled to receive this donation! The funds will go toward our many outdoor and academic programs, including college prep and individualized mentoring, weekend trips to Yosemite National Park and Big Sur, and immersive summer courses that incorporate activities like kayaking and rock climbing,” explained Sarah Ottley, Executive Director of Adventure Risk Challenge. “It’s always exciting to see our youth participants grow and evolve into leaders through these experiences, and it is contributions like this that help make it possible.” The organization also operates in areas of Lake Tahoe where Red Wolf Lodge at Squaw Valley is located. General Manager Nick Batliner, inspired by ARC’s approach of helping students, encouraged the charity to submit an entry to ResorTime’s giving contest. Batliner awarded the charity the $2,500 check on July 17, 2017.
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“It means so much to work for an organization that supports the causes that matter to the communities I work and live in,” Batliner said. “I love what Adventure Risk Challenge is doing by integrating wilderness experiences with mentoring and leadership development. It’s been such a pleasure seeing the impact it’s had on the students who participate.” Share What Matters To You We're proud to make an impact to four causes every year. If there's a 501(c)(3) you’re passionate about go to ResorTime. com/Giving to submit your inspiring story for a chance to win your favorite cause a $2,500 donation.
T I M E TOG E T H E R : FA L L / W I N T E R 2017
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CHRISTEL HOUSE IN ACTION Christel House, a non-profit organization driven by the mission “to make a lasting impact in the lives of poverty-stricken youth,” is rooted-in and inspired by a powerful statement that drives everything they do – “we are giving a child a seat at the table of life.” How does Christel House carry out the heart of their mission? They provide about 4,500 impoverished children with a top notch education, quality medical care, focused mentoring and the encouragement to follow their dreams. From the North American cities of Indianapolis and Mexico City, to the countries of India and South Africa, Christel House is making a difference at their eight academies throughout impoverished communities, and that’s just the beginning. “Your greatness is not what you have, it’s what you give” - Anonymous Since the charity’s inception in 1998, Grand Pacific Resorts has been a supporter of Christel House through donations, an in-room coffee program, and as host of the annual West Coast RCI Christel House Open, the organization’s signature fundraiser. David Brown, Co-President of Grand Pacific Resorts, has a long-established connection with Christel House. David has known Christel DeHaan, the Co-Founder of RCI, and Founder and CEO of Christel House International, since the 1980s when they met in Orlando. Inspired by her philanthropy and savvy business sense, she has been a mentor and role model to him over the years, and is still someone he turns to for advice, especially when it comes to finding more ways to help create a brighter future for the next generation. “We help financially at a corporate level, but I kept thinking that Christel House’s mission is so important, that I have to do more with my personal time,” David said of his commitment to the organization. In January 2017 David was invited to the inauguration of the new Christel House School in Mexico City. In seeing Christel House’s mission first hand, David saw hope… “There was such a stark contrast between the children’s home life and school life,” David said of his experience. “I visited the home of a student whose family lived in a one-room house with a dirt floor—they shared just one bathroom with about ten other families. They live in these unsuitable conditions, and then 32
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these inspiring students walk a mile through unsafe neighborhoods to the bus stop and arrive at Christel House where everyone is crisp, clean, and fresh-faced with matching uniforms. They’re all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, ready to take on the world. The contrast was amazing!” Every penny of every dollar contributed to Christel House goes directly to pay school expenses. That means they get access to modern amenities, high quality teachers in the classroom, and uniforms and healthcare – all within a safe haven where students can learn and grow. “I was lucky to participate in a political history class and also taught part of an English lesson. It was fun interacting with students, and although I teach courses at USC I was suddenly a little nervous teaching these eager students,” David admitted. “It was incredibly uplifting to see students so excited to learn. It felt great to be a part of that.” We can all make a difference...
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ABOVE: Images of Founder Christel in her school in India // South African student // David Brown Co-President of Grand Pacific Resorts with students in Mexico City
Support The Cause • $25 could provide medical support to one grade (60 students) for one day • $50 could provide uniforms for one student for a year • $150 could provide medical support to one student for a year Click Here To Donate
“When it comes to helping from the heart, we have to stop talking and just do it – pay for it, pull other people in, and make it happen,” David says. “We need more people who are in a position to make an impact to step up – whether giving time, donating resources or money, or simply spreading the word. Inspire your friends and family to act too!” When David was asked to describe his journey with Christel House in a few words he replied, “That’s easy: Gratitude, high impact, and endless possibilities.” In the spirit of fostering student success, Grand Pacific Resorts will be hosting two Christel House graduate interns at one of our resorts in the summer of 2018. Visit ChristelHouse.org to learn more about how you can help support the cause. T I M E TOG E T H E R : FA L L / W I N T E R 2017
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YOU ASK, WE ANSWER H OW D O I S E A R C H R E S O R T AVA I L A B I L I T Y ?
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W H AT A R E R E N TA L W E E K S ?
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HOW DO I SIGN INTO THE GPX WEBSITE?
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WHY USE GPX?
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W H E R E A R E G P X R E S O R T L O C AT I O N S ?
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T I M E TOG E T H E R : FA L L / W I N T E R 2017
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MARK YOUR
CALENDAR
D ECE M B E R
Santa is coming to town and there’s so many ways to celebrate. Head to Balboa Park’s Festival of Lights December 1-2, 2017 for arts, crafts and foodie fun, or let the kids run wild at the World Famous San Diego Zoo’s Jungle Bells, open late for nocturnal animal viewing and don’t forget to say hello to Santa in his igloo. Stay a short sleigh ride away from the holiday festivities at Coronado Beach Resort, on the parade route for Coronado’s Annual Holiday Parade & Open House happening December 2, 2017. If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit in NorCal celebrate Merry Days & Holly Nights in Squaw Valley. This two week festival is fun for the whole family and staying at Red Wolf Lodge at Squaw Valley or Red Wolf Lakeside Lodge puts you near all the festive fun in North Lake Tahoe.
JAN UARY
More than 25,000 California gray whales migrate from the chilly Alaskan waters south to the warmer temps of Baja, California. Plan a whale watching tour during peak season migration in coastal cities like Oxnard, San Clemente and Oceanside. Enjoy ocean views and stroll to the harbor for an immersive whale watching tour from Channel Island Shores, San Clemente Cove or Southern California Beach Club. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness these majestic ocean creatures in the wild! 36
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FE B RUARY
Love is in the air and what better way to celebrate than treating your other half to a romantic getaway in the beautiful coastal area of Del Mar. Choose from an array of fine dining experiences, plan a couples massage at the many luxurious spa offerings in the Del Mar Village, enjoy a romantic stroll along the beach and end your day in the plush accommodations of Villa La’Auberge or Wavecrest Resort, perched atop the cliffs of Del Mar State Beach. Celebrate the Heritage of Aloha on the island of Kauai at the Waimea Town Celebration on February 17, 2018. The 41st Anniversary will be filled with nine days of events and cultural exhibits. Be near Kauai’s oldest and largest annual festival when you getaway to Hanalei Bay Resort, Kauai Beach Villas or Makai Club Resort.
MARCH
With ski season in full flurry, head to Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows for the NASTAR National Champions on March 21-25, 2018, bringing together athletes and ski racing enthusiasts across the nation. It’ll be an exciting week of races, free concerts and opportunities to meet the U.S. Ski Team athletes and alumni. Vacation at the ski-in/skiout resort Red Wolf Lodge at Squaw Valley to be in the heart of the action in Olympic Valley! Shop ‘til you drop for the spring season. Held every Thursday night in downtown Palm Springs, and also known as the Palm Springs Street Fair, you’re invited to explore over 180 vendors featuring arts, crafts, food and entertainment at the Palm Springs VillageFest. Plan your getaway to Indian Palms Vacation Club to be near one of Southern California’s most popular weekly events.
T I M E TOG E T H E R : FA L L / W I N T E R 2017
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LET’S GET CRAFTY!
D I Y activities
Gather your friends and family during vacation for some do-it-yourself fun! From SoCal to NorCal, there’s so many great ways to get crafty with items you can find in your favorite destinations. Try out these perfect DIY activities for holiday gifts from the beach, or get the whole family stomping and laughing in Napa Valley! S E A S H E L L S A N TA C L A U S E
Seashell Santa Clause The perfect holiday gift you can make from the sea! What You’ll Need: • Seashells •
Acrylic Paints
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Polyurethane Spray
•
String or Pin (Optional)
When vacationing at Southern California Beach Club, Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort or Carlsbad Seapointe Resort take a short stroll to the sand to collect seashells for this fun, festive craft! Be sure to pick shells that you can ‘see Santa’ in. We recommend the scallop shaped shells to create Santa and his elves. Once you’ve gathered your shells, head back to your condo to paint your Santa onto the shell! Once dry, spray the painted shells with a light coat of polyurethane spray, but be careful not to spray too much or the colors might run together. Optional: Carefully drill a hole in the top of the shells and attach a string or hook to make holiday tree ornaments, or glue a pin to the back to make it a piece of jewelry. Special thanks to Sustainable Santa for passing along this fun budget friendly activity! For more tips, follow Santa at https://www.facebook.com/sustainablesanta/. 38
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V I N O & V I N YA S A
Reach for Zen when you stay at RiverPointe Napa Valley with ‘Vinyasa in the Vineyard’. It’s the perfect addition to your wine country vacation. Meet with the concierge or check the activities schedule for guided yoga classes or grab your yoga mat and stroll over to the lawn to try your warrior pose, and don’t forget to bring the wine!
Experience It. Click Play ! DIY WINE STOMP
This fun DIY is the perfect family-friendly activity for your vacation to RiverPointe Napa Valley. Get the whole family to partake in their very own wine stomp! What You’ll Need: •
Medium Sized Barrel/Planter
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Lots (and lots) of Dark Purple Grapes
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Heavy Duty Trash Bags
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Wine (Optional)
Experience It. Click Play !
Kids adore this activity and love being part of the wine country fun! Head to your local home improvement retailer (ex: Home Depot or Lowe’s) and purchase a medium-sized barrel or planter from the Garden Center. Be sure to select one that you can stomp in, but also isn’t too large that it becomes difficult to fill with grapes. Line your barrel with the heavy duty trash bag. Fill the barrel with lots of grapes and then let the wine stomping fun begin! Optional: Add inexpensive wine to the barrel of grapes to give it more of a squishy and authentic feel. ProTip: Do the wine stop in a grassy area or be sure to lay out plastic under your barrels. This activity is fun but also kind of messy.
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WE ARE NAPA VALLEY,
Stronger Together
During The Atlas Fire that spread through Napa in October, RiverPointe Napa Valley Resort persevered through the challenges, making owner and associate safety the number one priority by voluntarily evacuating in the early stages of the fire. When CalFire reached out, asking if they could use our cottages as they battled the blaze, we were grateful to be able to welcome our heroes for some rest and rejuvenation. Thank you to the firefighters, first responders and support from the local community. In the spirit of working together to rebuild, rebound and reopen, Napa Valley is back in business and is ready to welcome you!
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T here is No Planet B Don’t Trash Our Future It takes 450 years for a water bottle to decompose, but just 4.5 seconds to separate paper, aluminum, glass, and plastic from your trash.
Share how you’re #GoingGreen on vacation and at home. Sustainable, environmentally friendly paper
T I M E TOG E T H E R : FA L L / W I N T E R 2017
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GRAND
y a w a e v Gi
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