Summer Newsletter - Club Caribe Cancun...4 Villa del Palmar Resort Update At Villa del Palmar Cancun, we want to ensure our members have the most memorable vacation of their lives!

Summer NewsletterCancun ‘13

www.vdpcancunmembers.com

2

UVCI Member UseHighest in YearsThe 1st quarter member usage shows excellent pickup of 92% of the member allotment, which is higher than the historical occupancy figures of the last few years. This means that 92% of the suites dedicated to the membership were used for member reservations.

This shows effective inventory management and is a positive indication that the members have more disposable income available for vacationing.

Overall occupancy percentages vary from 88% to 100% at the individual properties, with all resorts performing well, and above last year. Comparing occupancy statistics this year vs. last year at the same time we find a positive increase of approximately 3,000 room nights for member usage at the Villa Group properties. This is a great sign of financial and economic health and progress.

Time and Cost Savings – Member Services in Las VegasOne of the ways we increased efficiency, saved costs, and elevated the level of Member Services at the Villa Group resorts this last year was moving the call center to Las Vegas. This upgraded the service levels on all calls from members. We have seen great feedback from members on their experience with the new call center.

We started the upgrade of our software and computer systems. In the first quarter we started the implementation of this upgrade which has allowed the service representatives to better serve the members on the phone. By the last quarter we hope to implement the upgrade that will allow members to better use the website for all of their membership needs such as making reservations, checking their accounts for availability of the weeks/points that are available in their accounts, paying maintenance fees, making loan payments, etc. We know vacations are for relaxing and with the upgraded software and systems all of your membership needs can be handled with a couple of clicks on your mobile device or with a phone call.

Although the staff onsite is always available to help you, we always encourage our members to call the toll-free Member Services line or go online to take care of all transactions before your trip. Now the “business” end of things can be taken care of more quickly and efficiently and saves you time so you can truly be relaxing on your vacation.

Hope to see you soon,

Sincerely, Robert K istner

2

3

CLUB DIRECTOR UPDATE

Rhonda MayerUVCI Director of Club Services

As the Club Director it is my job to ensure that the needs of our members are being met onsite at the resorts, and to make sure you are having a great time on your vacation. One of the most important tasks I handle is the monthly inspections of the resorts. I visit Mexico each month and visit all resorts between 6 and 9 times each year.

Running a vacation ownership resort is complicated. At a traditional hotel, there is one management company that does everything. But at our resorts, some of units are dedicated to the Club and others still belong to the Developer and are marketed to rental guests. So Club Management and Hotel Management work in tandem to address the operational areas that affect all the guests – members and renters. Although some of these areas are exclusively managed by the resort, it is still my job to report back with my findings on behalf of the members. Here are just some of the areas that I inspect and rate on an ongoing basis.

• HOTEL STAFF - Performance, courtesy & friendliness of concierge, bell desk, front desk, housekeeping, dining, activities, spa.

• SPA - Cleanliness of facility and treatment rooms, variety of spa menu.

• GYM – Adequate staffing, availability and variety of classes, clean and functioning equipment, clean towels.

• COMMON AREAS – Housekeeping and tidiness of all public spaces and restrooms, adequacy of furniture and chairs, windows, adequate and updated lighting, adequate and correct signage, landscaping maintenance, adequacy of parking areas, hazard free and clean sidewalks.

• MAINTENANCE - Elevators, maintenance of pool furniture and pool decks, pool water temperature, promptness of trash removal.

• GIFT SHOP – Appropriate stock and pricing, adequate staffing, variety and selection of merchandise.

• ACTIVITIES – Adequate staffing, cleanliness of uniforms, activities schedule, variety of classes and events.

• F&B OUTLETS/RESTAURANTS – Variety of menus, adequate staffing, customer service, food quality, length of wait, length to clear, cleanliness of linens and table settings.

• SECURITY – Knowledge and implementation of correct procedures, appropriate staffing, training (first aid, CPR etc.)

Our goal is to provide a seamless and enjoyable vacation experience for you. There is always room for improvement, and the most critical thing you can do to ensure adequate service levels is to complete your post-stay survey. Together with the Hotel management, we review every comment to identify challenge areas and come up with solutions. Hope to see you soon at the resort!

4

Villa del Palmar Resort UpdateAt Villa del Palmar Cancun, we want to ensure our members have the most memorable vacation of their lives! We have been implementing a few changes to help you better plan your stay.

DAILY NEWS RESORT BULLETIN – One thing that you can expect daily is our Daily News which includes activities the activities schedule, spa specials, daily chef recommendations and the schedule for the shuttle into town! Now you can make your plans each morning and take advantage of the best that our beautiful resort has to offer. Have you taken a trip to beautiful Isla Mujeres yet? In the Daily News you can see the updated ferry schedule from either Punta Sam (The dock right by the hotel) or from Puerto Juarez (in the hotel zone). This new publication is going to help answer a lot of your questions, so you can spend more of your day relaxing and enjoying your time at Villa del Palmar Cancun. We can’t wait to see you again!

GRATUITY - When you dine out or vacation, it may be a common practice for you to tip for good service. You may tip the bellman for bringing your bag quickly, the bartender for mixing the perfect drink, or the housekeeper who left the bathroom sparkling… these are the employees you see or interact with personally. You know their names, and may even strike up conversations and learn about their lives, their families, and their dreams. But what about the individuals working just as hard that don’t have the opportunity to get to know you? At Villa del Palmar Cancun we value ALL our employees. Our gratuity of $3.50 per night, is a sharing fee between the whole team - waiters, bartenders, maids, maintenance workers, bell boys, receptionists, activities coordinators, the administrative team and security guards. Hotel managers and directors are not included in this program. This gratuity allows us to share your appreciation with those service employees you don’t normally come in direct contact with.

4

5

Facebook.com/MyUVCI@MyUVCI Pinterest.com/MyUVCI

If not, you’re missing out! We love to hear from you about the amazing time you had on your most recent trips, and we love to give advice for new things to try!

Our Facebook fans often know about what is going on at the resorts before they even arrive, which gives them a great advantage when planning their activities! Our fans share their favorite pictures with each other, and some guests even inspire each other to try new activities. We welcome you to join this community that is growing stronger and stronger each day! We have a lot of fun here! Visit our Facebook page today and see for yourself! www.facebook.com/myuvci

Social Media Update

FUN RECIPE

Calbacitas is a traditional Mexican side dish that is made with summer squash, and often with corn, peppers, onions and other assorted vegetables. Bursting with fresh flavors, it is the perfect showcase for summer produce, particularly the zucchini that is so prevalent this time of year.

INGREDIENTS 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 cups corn kernels, defrosted 4 cloves garlic, smashed 1 green chile pepper seeded and chopped or, 2 jalapenos, seeded and chopped 2 small to medium zucchini, diced 1 small to medium yellow squash 1 large yellow skinned onion, chopped 1(14-ounce) can stewed tomatoes 2 teaspoons dark chili powder, just over 1/2 a palm full Salt and pepper 1 (16-ounce) tubes prepared polenta 2 cups, 10 ounces, shredded Monterey Jack, available on the dairy aisle in pouches 3 scallions, chopped 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro leaves or flat-leaf parsley

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 500 degrees F. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add remaining 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, corn, garlic and chiles. Saute 3 minutes, add zucchini and yellow squash and onions, season with salt and pepper, chili powder; cook 7 to 8 minutes. Add stewed tomatoes and heat through. Transfer to baking dish. Cut 1 tube of polenta in 1/2-inch slices lengthwise. Top vegetables with polenta and cheese. Place in hot oven to melt cheese and warm polenta, 8 to 10 minutes. Garnish with chopped scallions and cilantro or flat-leaf parsley.

(Recipe courtesy of Rachael Ray) Prep Time: 15 min Cook Time: 20 min Level: Easy Serves: 6 servings

5

CALABACITAS CASSEROLE WITH POLENTA AND CHEESE

Have you become a fan of us on Facebook yet?

6

The constant chatter of life is quieted. The never-ending stream of emails, texts and tweets is silenced. The hours-long office meetings are gone. The forever family discussion about what to do with the teenagers becomes suddenly solved. The chronic sore back and shoulder pain finds healing. The noisy co-workers phone chats with her mother are over. Welcome to your true escape from daily life inside the soothing walls of our Village Spa.

“Bienvenidos” to your new refuge of peaceful solace awaiting you within our replenishing spa. You’ll be embraced into a sanctuary of relaxation as everyday life is released. All the chaos will remain a distant memory as you embark on a journey that promises an immediate voyage into relaxation. At The Village Spa, we follow a simple philosophy: our guest’s must all find an indulgent experience known as euphoric relaxation. We go beyond for you.

Massage Therapies Mayan Rituals Villa Spa Facials Body Treatments Packages Hand & Foot Therapies Waxing

7

Come aboard our luxurious ultra modern boat for a day that you will not forget. This glass bottom boat is like nothing you have seen, and with the crystal blue waters in Cancun, it will be well worth the trip.

The tour is about 2 hours in length and you will be taken to Isla Mujeres where you will be able to experience the MUSA (an underwater collection of life size sculptures). This trip also includes 25 mins of snorkeling that you won’t soon forget! Hop on board and join the fun!

There are 3 separate times of day you can enjoy this trip! 10:30am, 12:30pm or 2:30pm!

Cancun Around Town

7

8

The Islands of Loreto Around Town FESTIVITIES OF OUR LADY OF LORETO

8

Visit the colonial monuments including the Church of Our Lady of Loreto and the Mission Museum. There will be trips to the Islands of Coronado, Carmen and Danzantes, excursions to the Mission of San Francisco Javier and other interesting sites. Festivities take place September 5th -8th!

The church was built by Father Jaime Bravo during the 30’s in the 18th century. It has only one aisle. Its walls are made of carved quarry stone. It has square columns with round arches that support the ceiling which is made of wood beams and a flat slab. The front piece has an affixed bell tower. It was partially destroyed by an earthquake and suffered severe reconstructions at different times, not always in accordance to its original style. Even still it keeps a beautiful golden altarpiece carved in wood with five oleos, a bell dated in 1734 and a crucifix. Its walls are adorned with six huge oleos and the Via Crucis; all of these pieces are from the 18th century.

9

Puerto Vallarta Around TownOUTDOOR ADVENTURE

9

The Outdoor Adventure offered by Vallarta Adventures is one of the most thrilling activities available to vacationers in Puerto Vallarta. The activity starts at the Vallarta Adventures office in either Nuevo Vallarta or at the Marina in Puerto Vallarta.

You will board a speed boat to take to a remote town near Puerto Vallarta. Make sure you hold on tight as the boat zips through Banderas Bay at thrilling speeds. Next you will board an off road vehicle for a bumpy ride up into the Sierra Madre mountain range.

Once at the Vallarta Adventure site, you will ride mules further up into the mountains (just be glad you don’t have to hike these steep hills) where you will arrive at the zip line and rappelling portion of the activity. This is not for the faint of heart, but for those willing to try it’s an amazing experience.

Our Social Media Manager Stephanie Benton was just in Puerto Vallarta on her honeymoon and had this to say about the Outdoor Adventure: “I have been zip lining and rappelling several times, but this by far was the most incredible experience. The activity allows you to do so much in a short period of time, and is a really great way to bond with your loved ones and overcome any fears you may have. I hate roller coasters but I love zip lining.”

Visit the travel agency at your resort to book this amazing activity! Push your limits, you won’t regret it.

10

Cabo San Lucas Around Town

10

PEACOCK’S RESTAURANT; where contemporary Mexican cuisine blends

seamlessly with Mediterranean culinary influences. Whether you choose to dine in

an open air courtyard or in the main interior dining room under warm, low light, you’ll find

that each table has its own unique personality and panache.

A table tucked into a private corner in the courtyard is perfect for an intimate dinner with the one you love. A

table set near a cozy fireplace in the main salon is just right for a group outing.

This restaurant is known for its flavorful dishes and exemplary service; from appetizers to entrees to decadent desserts you’ll discover a world filled with delicious flavors.

With over two decade’s worth of accolades from local residents and visiting tourists alike, Peacock’s recently went through a renovation and is ready to welcome tourists visiting Los Cabos. Peacock´s is located near famous Medano Beach.

11

Culture Corner

Nov. 1st & 2nd – One might think this is a scary or gruesome moniker to go with a scary and gruesome day, but the real-ity is that Day of the Dead is a grand celebration of the folks who have passed on. These days are marked throughout Mexico by a plethora of intriguing customs that vary widely according to the ethnic roots of each region. Common to all, however, are colorful adornments and lively reunions at fam-ily burial plots, the preparation of special foods, offerings laid out for the departed on commemorative altars and religious rites that are likely to include noisy fireworks. In most localities November 1st is set aside for remembrance of deceased infants and children (all saints), often referred

to as “angelitos” (little angels). Those who have died as adults are honored November 2nd (all souls).

At home, members of the family might use the purchases to elabo-rate an altar in honor of deceased relatives, decorating it with papel

picado (ornately cut paper), candles, flowers, photographs of the de-parted, candy skulls inscribed with the name of the deceased, and a

selection of his or her favorite foods and beverages. The latter often include bottles of beer or tequila, cups of “atole” (corn gruel) or cof-

fee, and fresh water, as well as platters of rice, beans, chicken or meat in mole sauce, candied pumpkin or sweet potatoes

and the aforementioned breads.

The spirits are expected to pay a holiday visit home and should be provided with an enticing repast and

adequate sustenance for the journey. Frequently a wash basin and clean hand towels are provid-ed so that visiting souls can freshen up before the feast. The offering may also include a pack of cigarettes for the after-dinner enjoyment of former smokers, or a selection of toys and extra sweets for deceased children.

Honoring these traditions, our hotels will set up colorful “altars” within each hotel from October 31st to November 2nd. Please join us to vote for the best one of each hotel on November 2nd. We will advise of the place and time to know the winner. Please see your resort Concierge in the resort lobby area for more details.

11

12

Important Addresses & Phone Numbers

VPA Vacation Banking Deadline

Maintenance fee assessment bills will be mailed

Maintenance fee payments due. 1st Installment is due for members utilizing the quarterly maintenance fee payment option.

Unpaid maintenance assessments are delinquent and subject to late fees and penalties.

2nd Installment due for members utilizing the quarterly maintenance fee payment option.

3rd Installment due for members utilizing the quarterly maintenance fee payment option.

4th Installment due for members utilizing the quarterly maintenance fee payment option.

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

FEBRUARY

MAY

AUGUST

30TH

1ST

1ST

1ST

1ST

1ST

UVC INTERNATIONAL

RESORTCOM INTERNATIONAL

OWNER RENTAL PROGRAM

NEUHEALTH

VACATION ExCHANGE

OWNER REFERRAL PROGRAM

VILLA DEL MAR / VILLA DEL PALMAR – PUERTO VALLARTA

GARzA BLANCA

VILLA DEL PALMAR –FLAMINGOS

VILLA DEL ARCO – CABO SAN LUCAS

VILLA DEL PALMAR – CANCUN

VILLA DEL PALMAR – LORETO

INTERVAL INTERNATIONAL (II)

I.I. GETAWAYS

RESORT CONDOMINIUMS IN-TERNATIONAL (RCI):

RESORT PHONE NUMBERS

404 Camino Del Rio South, Fourth FloorSan Diego, CA 92108Hours: 7:30 am to 6:00 PM PSTCancun Members : 866-668-9261Outside the US & Canada : 1-619-209-5944Fax: 1-619–209-5920Website: www.vdpcancunmembers.comEmail: [email protected] Services: [email protected]: [email protected] of Directors: [email protected]

Website: www.resortcom.com

Website: vdpcancunmembers.com/rentalprogram

20 California Street, 7th FloorSan Francisco, CA 94114(415) 480-0700 Website: www.nuehealth.com

1-800-634–3415CANADA: 1-800-638–3400Website: www.intervalworld.com

1-800-722-1860

1-888-909–3773CANADA: 1-800-527–5219Website: www.rci.com

Toll-Free: 1-800-676-9394

Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio KM 0.3Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco MX 48300Phone: 011-52-322-226-1400Fax: 011–52–322–226-1413

Carretera a Barra de NavidadKm. 7.5 zona Hotelera Sur,Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco Mx 48390Phone : 011-52-877-722-4592Fax 011-52-322-176-0702

Paseo Cocoteros 750 SurNuevo Vallarta, Nayarit MX 63732Phone: 011-52-322-226-8100Fax: 011-52-322-226-8101

Km 0.5 Camino Viejo A San JoseCabo San Lucas, BCS, MX 23410Phone: 011-52-624-145-7000Fax: 011-52-624-145-7071

Carretera a Punta Sam Km 5.200,MZ9, SMZ2, L3 Isla MujeresQuintana Roo, MX 77400Phone: 011-52-998-193-2600Fax: 011-52-998-193-2600 ext.1019

Carretera Transpeninsular K.M. 83Ensenada Blanca Loreto, BCS, MX 23680Phone: 011-52-613-134-1000

Annual Calendar Maintenance Fee Deadlines