FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALL ABOARD FLORIDA MOVES FULL STEAM AHEAD WITH
UNVEILING OF FORT LAUDERDALE STATION
New Station Poised to Revitalize Downtown Fort Lauderdale, Increase Tourism and Spur Economic Growth
Miami, FL (July 8, 2014) – Broward County Mayor Barbara Sharief and Fort Lauderdale Mayor John P. "Jack" Seiler joined All Aboard Florida executives today to reveal designs for All Aboard Florida’s new Fort Lauderdale station, which was planned and designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM) in association with Zyscovich Architects. The downtown Fort Lauderdale station unveiling is the latest in a series of recent milestones and announcements made by All Aboard Florida as the project continues to move forward.
The Fort Lauderdale station will be located on 4.8 acres of land adjacent to the Florida East Coast Railway (FEC) corridor on NW 2nd Avenue, between Broward Boulevard and NW 4th Street. Located at the northern end of downtown Fort Lauderdale, the nearly 60,000 square foot station and platform will stimulate a currently underutilized area, driving new visitors into downtown and the surrounding cultural, economic and shopping destinations.
“Today’s Fort Lauderdale station design unveiling marks a significant milestone in the start of construction within the segment between Miami and West Palm Beach,” said Michael Reininger, President and Chief Development Officer of All Aboard Florida. “As planned, construction will commence on the segment north of West Palm Beach after the environmental impact statement process is completed.”
Providing a new gateway into the city and all of Broward County, the Fort Lauderdale station will include a modern, multi-story lobby spanning an elevated passenger lounge area for travelers, and parking facilities. The station, located between NW 2nd street and Broward Boulevard, was chosen as it provides convenient connections to the Sun Trolley, Broward County Transit system, future Wave Streetcar and planned Tri-Rail station.
“All Aboard Florida will bring new jobs, increased business opportunities and an enhanced quality of life to Fort Lauderdale. This project helps to further our ‘Fast Forward Fort Lauderdale’ plan for the future, which includes becoming a fully connected ‘City of Tomorrow’ that is anchored by alternative modes of transportation and allows for less reliance on vehicles,” said Fort Lauderdale Mayor John P. "Jack" Seiler. “This exciting project will also assist in our downtown redevelopment and, from a tourism standpoint, this new mode of transportation should bring visitors right to our front door and allow us to showcase our many attractions and destinations.”
“Fort Lauderdale is a dynamic city whose leadership understands the importance of creating new opportunities and solutions that keep up with the needs and demands of our increasingly mobile world,” added All Aboard Florida’s Michael Reininger. “As with our other planned stations in South Florida, All Aboard Florida will not only set a new standard in passenger rail, but will revitalize Fort Lauderdale’s downtown core, fueling job and business growth, reducing road congestion, increasing tourism, delivering state and local tax revenues and contributing long-term environmental benefits.”
Each of All Aboard Florida’s three planned stations in South Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach) will serve as both gateways to their respective cities, and as key portals and iconic destinations with ready access to places to shop, eat and connect. As part of the urban infrastructure of each area, the stations are expected to generate significant economic impact to the State. Economists estimate that All Aboard Florida will add more than $6 billion to Florida’s economy over the next eight years, including $333 million in economic impact for Broward County through 2021. Nearly 800 jobs will be created in Broward County through the construction of the station and the rail line.
“All Aboard Florida’s Fort Lauderdale station will not only stimulate our local economy and drive consumers to the area, but will also create thousands of direct jobs during construction and implementation for locals and cities along the route,” said Broward County Mayor Barbara Sharief. “All Aboard Florida will bring significant opportunities to Broward County and enable our local businesses to thrive in a global marketplace.”
"Herein lies an excellent opportunity for Fort Lauderdale's urban vitality to be further enhanced by direct and efficient connectivity to the hubs of Orlando and Downtown Miami,” said Bernard Zyscovich, CEO and Founder of Zyscovich Architects. “This 21st century, central station will be a catalyst for redevelopment along the western edge of downtown Fort Lauderdale."
About All Aboard Florida
All Aboard Florida is an intercity passenger rail project being developed by Florida East Coast Industries, Inc. (FECI) — owner of Florida’s premier passenger rail corridor — that will connect Miami to Orlando with intermediate stations in Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach. This rail service will give Floridians and visitors a viable transportation alternative to congested highways and airport terminals. All Aboard Florida will provide a high‐quality experience for passengers and will be the first privately owned, operated, and maintained passenger rail system in the United States. For more information, visit www.AllAboardFlorida.com.
About Florida East Coast Industries
Florida East Coast Industries, LLC (FECI) is one of Florida’s oldest and largest full-service commercial real estate, transportation, and infrastructure companies. Headquartered in Coral Gables, Fla., FECI has a rich history dating back over a century. Mr. Henry Flagler first established a predecessor company in 1892, which became a pioneer in the development of Florida's eastern coast. Today, FECI continues to transform Florida as the parent company to four distinct business lines including Flagler, a full-service commercial real estate company; All Aboard Florida, the United States’ first privately owned and operated intercity passenger rail system; Flagler Global Logistics, an integrated logistics company that offers a wide range of logistics services and real estate solutions; and Parallel Infrastructure, a leader in third-party Right of Way (ROW) investments and management services. FECI is owned by private equity funds managed by affiliates of Fortress Investment Group, LLC. For more information, visit www.feci.com.
About Zyscovich Architects
Zyscovich Architects is an international master planning, architecture, and interior design firm with offices in Miami, Orlando, New York City and Bogotá. The firm's innovative approach to planning, Real Urbanism®, embraces the history and economics of a community to create a unique vision that brings tangible value and improved quality of life to the area. The firm's commitment to customized solutions is also evident in its award-winning architectural design work for both public and private clients. Zyscovich's broad range of experience includes large-scale mixed-use, transportation, educational, commercial, retail, and multi-family residential, and hospitality projects.
About Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM) is one of the leading architecture, interior design, engineering, and urban‐planning firms in the world, with a 75‐year reputation for design excellence and a portfolio that includes some of the most important architectural accomplishments of the 20th and 21st centuries. Since its inception, SOM has been a leader in the research and development of specialized technologies, new processes and innovative ideas, many of which have had a palpable and lasting impact on the design profession and the physical environment. The firm’s longstanding leadership in design and building technology has been honored with more than 1,700 awards for quality, innovation, and management. The American Institute of Architects has recognized SOM twice with its highest honor, the Architecture Firm Award—in 1962 and again in 1996. The firm maintains offices in New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., London, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Mumbai and Abu Dhabi.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT:
M Silver // A Division of Finn Partners
Patrice Guthrie
KIMPTON’S SURFCOMBER MIAMI, SOUTH BEACH HEATS UP THE DAYLIFE
Chris Mehmel Promoted to Coordinate the “Daylife Experience” at Kimpton’s Design-Inspired, Oceanfront Hotel
MIAMI – January 2, 2014 – Bringing a sense of playfulness and whimsy to sexy South Beach, Kimpton’s Surfcomber Miami continues to innovate and gain a reputation and following for its unmatched guest and daylife experience that captures the destination’s sizzle and fun. In addition to a new series of daylife activities set to be rolled out, the hotel announced today the appointment of Chris Mehmel as Surfcomber’s first official Director of Daylife.
“Chris has been an invaluable asset to the Surfcomber team over the past year and will add a lively twist to what makes the daylife at Surfcomber and South Beach, so unique,” said General Manager Sean Flanigan. “From the playful to the wellness-inspired to the fashion forward, we look forward to seeing what Chris has in store as he applies his distinctive knowledge of what’s hip and hot in the area to what Surfcomber does best.”
Prior to assuming this new role, Mehmel served as a guest services agent before being promoted to guest services manager at Kimpton’s Surfcomber, where he oversaw guest service touch points and ensured exceptional service. Mehmel was exposed to the travel industry at an early age through his parents’ boutique Caribbean and Bahamas travel company. The well-traveled, culturally inquisitive graduate of Florida International University is no stranger to creating memorable and successful vacations as evidenced by his travels to every island and hotel in the Caribbean.
Mehmel’s new responsibilities will be to maintain his outgoing and high-energy personality while remaining the guru of all things South Beach. As Director of Daylife, a typical day for Mehmel will involve acting as a trusted resource of information for South Beach happenings, promotions and trends in order to deliver the ultimate access to surrounding hot spots and exclusive events for Surfcomber guests; engaging and interacting with hotel guests and sharing insider tips on the best action in Miami – from the best brunches to the latest trendy boutiques.
Not only does the Director of Daylife help guests enjoy Miami like a local, but also cultivates strong relationships with local businesses in order to create exciting experiences such as reservations at the hottest restaurant on South Beach or a personal salsa lesson for two. Additionally, the Director of Daylife will create and maintain the vibe of Surfcomber’s iconic pool deck, executing hotel programming as an activities coordinator that increases guest satisfaction and the overall vacation experience. As a daylife expert, Mehmel will create memories and feelings that last a lifetime.
Kimpton’s scene-stealing Surfcomber offers the best of the best in guest experiences all day, every day, and brings a playful, whimsical spirit as well as its own sense of style and energy to South Beach. The Art Deco District’s beachfront playground offers a distinctive daylife experience with its iconic, sun-drenched pool deck, providing guests with more hours of sun than any other hotel in the area as well as 30 private cabanas, a pool bar and varied beach and poolside activities.
For more information on Surfcomber and/or reservations, please call (800) 994-6103 or visit www.surfcomber.com.To stay up-to-date on the latest news and travel deals, become a fan of the Surfcomber Facebook page by visiting www.facebook.com/surfcomberhotel or follow us on Twitter and Instagram @KimptonInFL.
ABOUT KIMPTON’S SURFCOMBER MIAMI, SOUTH BEACH
Managed by Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Surfcomber sits on the Atlantic Ocean’s edge along 200 feet of oceanfront property in the heart of the Art Deco District in South Beach on historic Collins Avenue. With direct beach access, this newly and fully renovated hotel offers visitors to this fashionable destination a distinctively relaxed, yet worldly guest experience within a “backyard bliss” design-driven environment. The hotel’s 186 guestrooms feature luxurious bed linens and bath products by C.O. Bigelow. Guests of Surfcomber will enjoy a diverse mix of dining and lounge options including The Social Club and Surfcomber’s Sandbar. Surfcomber’s signature pool/beach experience includes the hotel’s expansive outdoor deck with heated pool, well-appointed cabanas, and beach activities such as paddle boarding and volleyball. Surfcomber’s meeting and event space can accommodate everything from intimate poolside weddings to large corporate events up to 500 people. Additional guest services and amenities include 24-hour in-room dining, 24-hour on-site business center, fitness center, mind and body experiences with in-room and beachside massages.
ABOUT KIMPTON HOTELS & RESTAURANTS
San Francisco-based Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants is the leading collection of boutique hotels and restaurants in the United States and the acknowledged industry pioneer that first introduced the boutique hotel concept to America. In 1981, Bill Kimpton founded the company that today is renowned for making travelers feel genuinely cared for while away from home through thoughtful perks and amenities, distinctive design that tells a story and inspires a sense of fun at each hotel and a sincerely personal style of guest service. Out to help people live full, balanced lives, Kimpton aims to inspire with touches like yoga mats in every room, complimentary coffee and tea to start the day, hosted evening Wine Hour, in-room fitness programming and complimentary bike rentals. The award-winning restaurants and bars are led by talented chefs and bartenders that offer guests a chance to dine like a local. Kimpton also leads the hospitality industry in eco-friendly practices that span all hotels and restaurants, and is consistently ranked as one of the top companies in the Market Metrix Hospitality Index, Upper Upscale Segment, for Customer Satisfaction. The company is highly-regarded for its innovative employee culture and benefits and has been named a Fortune magazine “Best Place to Work” four times since 2009. Kimpton is continuously growing and currently operates 60 hotels and nearly 70 restaurants, bars and lounges in 26 cities. For more information, visit www.KimptonHotels.com and www.KimptonRestaurants.com.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACT:
M Silver // A Division of Finn Partners
Patrice Guthrie
THIS TURKEY DAY, KIMPTON’S MIAMI HOTELS GIVE THANKS TO GUESTS
WITH INVITING SEASONAL RATES STARTING AT $191/NIGHT
EPIC Hotel; Surfcomber Miami, South Beach; and The Angler’s
Pay It Forward with Special Rates and Donation to Local Charity
MIAMI – Nov. 21, 2014 – The spirit of giving this holiday season is in full swing. Kimpton’s Miami Hotels – EPIC Hotel, Surfcomber, Miami South Beach and The Angler’s – are giving thanks to guests with special rates, donations to Camillus House, a Miami charity that provides services to the homeless.
EPIC Hotel, rates starting at $199 – Located at the center of the action, and with a guest and service experience that lives up to its name, EPIC epitomizes Miami at its best, especially during the holiday season. Decked out for the season in high style, and featuring Thanksgiving celebration options that include all the trimmings, EPIC is a distinctive luxury, waterfront hotel at the epicenter of some of the best attractions, boutiques, restaurants and entertainment. Guests who book the “Go MIA” package at EPIC can also indulge in a special Thanksgiving dinner at Area 31 for stays between Nov. 23 and Dec. 1. To book the “Go MIA” package at EPIC, call 1-800-546-7866 or visit www.epichotel.com, and use booking code “GoMIA.”
Surfcomber Miami, South Beach, rates starting at $329 – Sitting just 200 feet from the Atlantic Ocean, Surfcomber is conveniently located in the heart of the Art Deco District in South Beach on historic Collins Avenue. This fully renovated hotel brings a sense of playfulness and whimsy to South Beach, offering guests the perfect quartet of sun, sand, surf and social during the holidays and all year long. For those seeking a “warm and fuzzy” holiday experience, Surfcomber’s direct beach access, one-of-a-kind daylife experience, iconic, and sun-drenched pool deck with private cabanas and pool bar, provides guests with the most hours of beach- and poolside sun and fun than any other hotel in the area. Guests who book the “Thanks for Giving” package at Surfcomber will support donations of $7-10 USD per booking to Camillus House and receive a special dinner for two at The Social Club for stays booked through Nov. 30, 2014. To book the “Thanks for Giving” package at Surfcomber, call 1-800-546-7866 or visit www.surfcomber.com, and use booking code “THANKS.”
The Angler’s Miami, South Beach, rates starting at $191 – With an urban yet tropical feel, The Angler’s is Kimpton’s latest Miami addition, immortalizing Miami Beach’s historic architecture while also bringing a fresh approach that is reminiscent of old Florida and suited for today’s savvy South Beach visitor. The Angler’s is a distinctively relaxed, yet sophisticated hotel that sets the stage for a memorable Thanksgiving holiday with its restaurant, private dining room, pool deck and outdoor terraces/patios. With unique accommodations that include rooftop decks and spacious spa suites, The Angler’s is just steps away from some of the greatest beaches in South Beach, the Art Deco historic architecture, and other entertainment centers. Guests who book the “Go MIA” package at The Angler’s can also enjoy a special Thanksgiving brunch at 660 on Turkey Day. The “Go MIA” package is available for stays between Nov. 23 and Dec. 1. To book the package at The Angler’s, call 1-800-546-7866 or visit www.anglershotelmiami.com, and use booking code “GoMIA.”
To stay up-to-date on the latest news and travel deals, become a fan of the EPIC, Surfcomber, and Angler’s Facebook pages, or follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest @KimptonInFL.
ABOUT KIMPTON HOTELS & RESTAURANTS
San Francisco-based Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants is the leading collection of boutique hotels and restaurants in the United States and the acknowledged industry pioneer that first introduced the boutique hotel concept to America. In 1981, Bill Kimpton founded the company that today is renowned for making travelers feel genuinely cared for while away from home through thoughtful perks and amenities, distinctive design that tells a story and inspires a sense of fun at each hotel and a sincerely personal style of guest service. Out to help people live full, balanced lives, Kimpton aims to inspire with touches like yoga mats in every room, complimentary coffee and tea to start the day, hosted evening Wine Hour, in-room fitness programming and complimentary bike rentals. The award-winning restaurants and bars are led by talented chefs and bartenders that offer guests a chance to dine like a local. Kimpton also leads the hospitality industry in eco-friendly practices that span all hotels and restaurants, and is consistently ranked as one of the top companies in the Market Metrix Hospitality Index, Upper Upscale Segment, for Customer Satisfaction. The company is highly-regarded for its innovative employee culture and benefits and has been named a Fortune magazine “Best Place to Work” four times since 2009. Kimpton is continuously growing and currently operates 61 hotels and nearly 70 restaurants, bars and lounges in 26 cities. For more information, visit www.KimptonHotels.com.
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HILTON WAIKOLOA VILLAGE COMPLETES A MORE THAN $15 MILLION RENOVATION TO GUEST ROOMS AND LOBBY
WAIKOLOA, Hawaii – July 25, 2012 – Hilton Waikoloa Village -- the 62-acre Pacific playground located on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii, the Big Island -- unveils a $15 million renovation to the 245 Lagoon Tower guest rooms and main lobby in August 2012. Adding to the magic of Hilton Waikoloa Village, the newly transformed lobby welcomes guests with plush furnishings and spacious seating areas, and the guest rooms boast a natural interior palette with sumptuous and impactful, island-inspired design elements among other exclusive upgrades.
Drawing inspiration from the Hawaiian Islands, the transformed Lagoon Tower rooms feature elegant upgrades to the bathrooms, linens and furnishings. The carpet inset with images of Naupaka, marches across the room in colors of lavender, white and beige leading guests to a crisp bed of soft, white linens. Handsome hardware along with a crystalline stone countertop add to the bathroom’s rejuvenating feel. Beyond sophisticated room enhancements, half of the tower continues to offer stunning oceanfront views of the Pacific Ocean, Mauna Loa Mountains or Waiulua Bay. The unpretentious retreat beckons guests by creating a relaxing haven within the expansive resort.
Upon arrival, the expanded main lobby features a chic new design complemented by culturally inspired fixtures and rich hues of tan, purple and gold. Decorated with elegantly appointed custom furnishings and a chandelier (or piko) representing continuity, the main lobby links intelligent design to the Hawaiian concept of Pikowaena – a place of gathering to have the ultimate welcome experience. The lights that hang from the piko represent the generations of the past, present and future that have and will continue to visit the resort.
The lobby and guest room transformation complement last year’s $1 million renovation to the Naupaka and Nai’a suites, the most luxurious accommodations available at Hilton Waikoloa Village. Perfect for discriminating travelers, the two suites boast a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean, which is reflected in the fabrics and artwork in the room. In addition to the placement of a whirlpool bathtub and sauna, pebbled cast art glass and mother of pearl accents in the master bath add an elegant glow and charm. The carefully woven headboard flanked by glowing capiz shell wall sconces adds to the atmosphere of island luxury.
The award-winning Hilton Waikoloa Village is a 62-acre Pacific playground and alluring destination unto itself. The resort offers island hospitality with 1,240 beautifully appointed guest rooms and beautiful vistas of Waiulua Bay. Amenities include three fresh-water swimming pools; an ocean-fed snorkeling lagoon; waterfalls and waterways; locally inspired treatments at the Kohala Spa; the Dolphin Quest educational center; nine dining outlets; a Museum Walkway; the Club Keiki children's program; Legends of the Pacific Luau; an 18-hole seaside putting course and an expansive tennis complex. Hilton Waikoloa Village and Waikoloa Beach Resort are gateways to cultural immersion, engaging travelers in the area's rich history through such interactive cultural entertainment such as hula and ukulele lessons and historic Petroglyph tours. Adventures within Waikoloa Beach Resort range from two championship golf courses to world- class shopping and activities at Queens' Marketplace and Kings' Shops.
For more information about Hilton Waikoloa Village, visit www.waikoloavillage.hilton.com or call 808.886.1234. To download images visit http://news.hilton.com/waikoloavillage.
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The ALL INCLUSIVE COLLECTION ROLLS OUT THE RED CARPET WITH EXCLUSIVE ROCK STAR LEVEL
MIAMI, Fla. – All Inclusive Collection – the brand that is shifting the sands of all inclusive resort accommodations – proudly announces the exclusive Rock Star Level at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, allowing guests to vacation in style with the new star-studded package upgrade, starting July 1, 2012. This lavish offering provides accommodations in the Rock Star Suite, Royal Villas, Signature Presidential Suites or Caribbean Sand Suites with unmatched all inclusive amenities, creating the ultimate red carpet experience for visitors.
In true rock star fashion, the Rock Star Level upgrade provides guests with amenities that exceed every expectation of service and comfort. Package inclusions feature private in-room check-ins, 24-hour dedicated butler service, express luggage delivery, exclusive in-room amenities, complimentary ironing service, packing and unpacking luggage service, an in-room idock music system and a host of other elite offerings. Additionally, the new Rock Star Level caters to couples looking to experience a truly relaxed vacation. Couple services include two exclusive in-room Rock Spa® treatments, dinner reservations at signature restaurants, Jacuzzi preparation by butler, private pool and beach concierge, a delectable full-course room service menu and late checkout. Pricing for the Caribbean Sand Suite is $783 per night, Signature Presidential Suite with two bedrooms $2,093 per night, four bedroom Royal Villa at $6,554 per night and Rock Star Suite priced at $13,107 per night. All previously listed fees are based on double occupancy.
The 1,787 room Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana is situated on pristine sugar white sands stretching 121-acres along Macao Beach in the Dominican Republic. Hard Rock’s first all inclusive hotel and casino exudes lavish five-star all-inclusive amenities and personal services to create the ultimate rock star getaway featuring an endless array of enticing outdoor activities and exhilarating entertainment options. Among the resort’s many offerings are luxe accommodations featuring the Hard Rock’s branded “Rock Star Suite,” the signature Rock Spa®, 18-hole Nicklaus designed golf course, iconic music memorabilia and a larger-than-life Vegas-style casino – the largest in the Dominican Republic, featuring Oro nightclub. Guests also enjoy 15 expansive pools, four swim-up bars, a kids' pool and lazy river. A variety of gourmet dining options are available through the resort’s nine restaurants, including Brazilian steakhouse Impanema, Zen Asian Teppanyaki, Pizzeto brick-oven pizza and Kerry Simon restaurant by the famed Rock n Roll chef, set to open in 2013. The property also features more than 65,000 square-feet of flexible event and meeting space.
All Inclusive Collection accommodations start at $171 per person, per night, based on double occupancy.
To book a Rock Star Level vacation experience visit www.hrhallinclusive.com or call 800-635-1836 x6020 and to book a vacation experience at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, visit www.hardrockhotelpuntacana.com, call 888-680-7625 or contact your preferred travel professional.
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CASA DE CAMPO MEETINGS BLURB
Recently completing $52 million in renovations, Casa de Campo -- 7,000-acre luxury resort in the Dominican Republic -- offers meeting planners a functional group space with an intelligent design. The coveted venue for any Caribbean conference, banquet, meeting or exclusive celebration, Casa de Campo boasts the refreshed Flamboyant Conference Center, now featuring three main conference rooms expanding into a ballroom, as well as two conference rooms on the second floor, ideal for office space and board meetings. Complementing the elegant space are luxurious accommodations in spacious suites and elite patio guestrooms.
Additional draws of Casa de Campo comprise of limitless amenities including five-star dining at Beach Club by Le Cirque, The Casa de Campo Spa, three Pete Dye-designed golf courses (including the famed Teeth of the Dog), 245-acre Shooting Center, Polo Club, Equestrian Center, a 370-slip Marina & Yacht club and its own cultural city, Altos de Chavon.
For more information, please visit casadecampo.com.
INTERNATIONAL DESIGN CONCEPTS RENEWS FOCUS ON FLORIDA TIME SHARE MARKET
Miami-Based Design Firm Brings Intelligent Design to the Jewel of Florida’sGulf Coast, Renovating 40 Suites at Veranda Beach Club
LONGBOAT KEY, FL – International Design Concepts (“IDC”) bring intelligent designs to luxurious oceanfront living at Veranda Beach Club (2509 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL) during a period of optimistic growth for timeshares. Helmed by industry veteran Stephanie Tyler, IDC’s expert team of interior designers just completed renovations of 40 units including penthouse suites. With the nationwide timeshare market up slightly from $6.3 billion sold in 2009 to $6.4 billion, according to the 2011 State of the Vacation Timeshare Industry, the Miami-based design group is poised to expand their business in Florida, which accounts for more than a third of all properties in the United States.
“For the past few years, much of our hospitality business has focused on the Caribbean and abroad because of the downturned Florida and U.S. economy,” said Tyler, principal of International Design Concepts. “Now that developers and creditors are more optimistic and are finding new ways to recoup their costs, we are using our extensive industry experience, high-end appeal and local network to attract new business in our home state.”
This year’s resurgence of travel will influence fractional and interval ownership properties to redesign in an effort to attract vacationers in a competitive timeshare climate. According to Howard Nusbaum, president and CEO of the American Resort Development Association, “more travelers are beginning to understand the value and comfort of a timeshare vacation and with resorts in […] popular 2011 destinations, vacationers will find exactly what they need.”*
International Design Concepts’ most recent international projects include Jumby Bay, St. Lucia (Rosewood Resorts) and Jalousie Plantation and Antigua (Viceroy Properties). Wooing the Sunshine State with their coastal design aesthetic, IDC revamped Veranda Beach Club - a Michael Saunders & Company initiative - bridging durability and functionality with luxury living.
About International Design Concepts
International Design Concepts is a boutique firm heralded for excellence in design, personalized service and the ability to connect with clients. Based in South Florida, the American gateway to tropical living, its portfolio of four and five-star hotels, resorts and restaurants, commercial establishments and inspired homes reflect an affinity toward functional and easy living. Stephanie Tyler leads the team at International Design Concepts by fostering balance between expediting a project within set specifications and facilitating a pleasurable process, whereby ideas, designs and spaces come to life. For more information, please visit www.idcdesignconcepts.com.
About Veranda Beach Club:
The Veranda Beach Club, an interval ownership resort, is located on Longboat Key, Florida’s Gulf Coast. New units are spacious and available in 2/2 and 4/4 models. Located directly off the shore of the Gulf of Mexico, this tropical oasis offers lavish amenities including a state-of-the-art health center and a wide range of water-sports. It is center to the Sarasota area, where arts, culture, boutique shopping, elegant dining and recreation thrive. Managed by Michael Saunders & Company. For further information about Veranda Beach Club, please call 1.800.411.5511 or visit us www.verandabeachclub.com.
About Michael Saunders & Company:
Now in its fourth decade of service to Southwest Florida, Michael Saunders & Company has grown from a single small office into a network of 23 full-service offices—with more than 500 professionally trained associates and 150 staff members. Powerful world-wide affiliations—including Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, Luxury Portfolio, Christie’s Great Estates, the European Real Estate Network (EREN) and Mayfair International Realty extend the company’s message to qualified buyers globally, ensuring the broadest possible exposure for our properties. Michael Saunders & Company is ranked as the 75th largest brokerage in dollar volume in the latest Real Trends 500 Survey of the 500 largest brokerages in the U.S; and is included among the 35 most influential Realtors in luxury real estate.
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*Editor’s Note: Quote by Howard Nusbaum retrieved from the American Resort Development Association website at www.arda.org (February 8, 2011).
LOCAL CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION PARTNERS WITH ESTABLISHED WYNWOOD GALLERY TO HOST CHARITY EVENT
Beyond Boundaries Children’s Foundation and Alberto Linero Gallery Advocate Art Exhibition for Children in Honduras
Miami, FL (August 2011) – Beyond Boundaries Children’s Foundation partners with Alberto Linero Gallery to host “Art for Education” a fundraising art exhibition featuring the works of Honduran artists including Todd Andrew Babb and Edgar Nano Sanchez. Slated for August 20, 2011 6:30 p.m. at Alberto Linero Gallery located in the Wynwood Arts District, (2294 NW 2nd Avenue), all proceeds will benefit under privileged children in Honduras.
“At Beyond Boundaries, we are about creating change, hope and growth for today’s children. Together, we are able to contribute to a growing community and build sustainable futures for the lives of Honduran children,” said Mario Canahuait, President of Beyond Boundaries Children’s Foundation.
Last year, only 44.5 percent of children ages 5-6 years attended school in Honduras. This number decreases severely for young adults ages 16-18 years, who account for 27.6 percent in school attendance. In a country credited with one of the most outdated educational systems in Central America and an illiteracy rate of 43.3 percent, Beyond Boundaries and Alberto Linero Gallery are committed to helping Honduran children of today to become leaders of tomorrow.
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About Alberto Linero Gallery
Located in the heart of Miami’s Wynwood district, Alberto Linero Gallery presents a refreshing spin on contemporary and modern art. Showcasing mixed media works, sculpture and painting, the gallery offers a compelling line-up of Latin American and international art. Exhibitions are site-specific and designed with the architectural elements of the 2,000-square-foot space in mind. Freestanding partitions, dedicated niches and project-based installations rotate regularly as part of the program at Alberto Linero Gallery, located at 2294 NW 2nd Avenue in Miami, corner of Northeast Second Avenue and 23rd Street. For more information please call 305.587.0172, email info@albertolinerogallery.com or visit www.albertolinerogallery.com.
About Beyond Boundaries Children’s Foundation
Beyond Boundaries Children’s Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of education for children in Honduras. Committed to promoting greater self-esteem among children and young adults, the organization instills an “Active Citizens” philosophy to empower children with leadership skills that nurture successful educational programs and yield productive members of society. For more information please visit www.bboundaries.org.
COOL TO BE CLEAR
Ice Watch’s Clear Classic Collection
Designers such as Calvin Klein, Judith Leiber and Prada filled their runways with clear Lucite accessories for spring. From sunglasses to strappy wedges, one thing is CLEAR – Ice-Watch is on top of the trend with the new Clear Classic Collection.
Fashionista’s now have a classic accessory that complements any outfit at an affordable price, available in blue, green, orange, yellow, pink, red or silver sunray dials with a transparent band.
A new concept in international, intercultural and intergenerational watches, Ice- Watch is distributed in more than 60 countries throughout the world. Ice Watch made its United States debut in December 2009.
For more information visit: www.icewatch.com
Retail: $85 small (33mm), $85 unisex (43mm)
*Ice-Watch watches have a two-year warranty.