The benefits of flying privately hardly need explaining. Private jets offer vastly superior comfort, convenience and flexibility over commercial aviation. In an era where airlines continue to cut flights, set new lows for delays, and subject passengers to tedious and time consuming security procedures, private jets allow you to fly anywhere you want, when you want, with an absolute minimum of hassle. Until recently however, these substantial benefits were outweighed by the prohibitive cost of jet ownership making flying privately out of the question for all but the most wealthy travelers. The establishment of fractional jet programs, card programs, and the evolution of on-demand charter however have opened up the world of private aviation to a larger audience than ever before.

At the high end of the spectrum of private jet travel alternatives is fractional ownership. Pioneered by NetJets, fractional ownership companies allow individuals to purchase a share of a private jet, which entitles use of that jet, or other jets of that model in the company’s fleet, for a defined number of hours per year.

Card programs essentially work like a debit card for private jet travel. With a jet card you purchase hours aboard a particular aircraft type ahead of time (usually in 25-hour increments). When you’ve used up all the hours on a particular card, you just buy another one— there’s no lasting obligation or risk involved. Card programs can be divided into two main groups – fractional cards and charter cards – which differ based on the source of the planes you’ll be flying on. Fractional cards use the fleets of fractional jet companies, whose planes are not always in use by their owners. Charter cards, meanwhile, source planes from large networks of charter operators. Fractional card programs are usually more expensive, seeing as they provide a higher degree of aircraft consistency and safety. Charter cards may however, be a better bet, since they often times allow for more flexibility in aircraft types and availability.

On-demand charter – contracting flights individually through an operator – has been around since the beginning of the aviation industry, but advancements in technology and access to aircraft, are making it a much more attractive option. While a majority of the country’s charter operator’s are still so-called “mom and pop” businesses, flying just a few aircraft, sophisticated booking systems like Virgin Charter have networked charter inventory across the country making it far easier to book a flight. Meanwhile, increased competition and transparency is making on-demand charter more affordable.

WHAT IT ISN’T

None of these alternatives allow for the maximum flexibility that comes with owning your own jet— you won’t be able to install those leopard print couches either. At the same time, while these options offer significant savings over private jet ownership, any form of private jet travel remains more expensive—orders of magnitude more expensive— than even a first class ticket.

HOW MUCH IS IT?

Jet fractions are priced more or less as a direct function of the total price of the jet. So if a top of the line Gulfstream G550 goes for about $50 million, a 1/16th share (good for 50 hours of use a year) will set you back a little over $3 million.

Charter card pricing varies according to the type of plane you are purchasing time in. Marquis Jet charges $126,900 for 25 hours in a small jet like a Citation V Ultra, all the way up to $349,900 for 25 hours in a Gulfstream G450.

If cost is your main concern, on-demand charter is probably the best option. Because each flight is priced out individually, what you pay will best reflect the actual cost of the flight to the operator. Whereas the per hour cost for Marquis Jet’s G450 breaks down to around $14,000, with a charter operator you could pay as little as $9000 an hour for the same flight.

QUESTIONS TO ASK

Before signing up with any private jet travel program there are some important questions to ask. As always, safety must be a primary concern. All of the major fractional programs have excellent safety records, but if you are using a charter operator, or a charter card, it behooves you to learn about their safety and service history. Make sure they work with either ARGUS or Wyvern (the two major private aviation safety auditing firms) certified.

If you have special requests for your flight you should also make sure to be vocal. Flying with pets? Children flying alone? Just have to light up at 35,000 feet? Clear it with the company before you sign anything.

Finally it’s important to look for hidden costs. Many programs have a fuel surcharge which can substantially increase flight costs. In many cases you’ll also be charged for the so-called “dead head legs” where you’re plane is maneuvered to pick you up. Be sure to find the company’s policy on this as well.

Before settling on a particular aircraft type, make sure that the airports you’ll be flying to can accommodate it. Shorter runways at airports in remote locations often don’t have enough room for the larger planes to land and take off.

FINAL WORD

As much as these private jet travel options provide a less expensive alternative to whole ownership, it is still difficult to make the case for flying privately strictly from a value perspective, at least in a financial sense. In the end the decision to fly privately ultimately resides in values like your time, your comfort, and your privacy. Flying privately is still expensive, and is likely to remain so, but there’s no doubt about it: if you can afford it, it’s worth the money.

In choosing a private jet travel option, it’s best to have a good idea about what your own needs are. Planning on flying more than 50 hours a year? A fractional is probably the way to go. Are you only likely to fly on a private jet for a special trip once in a while? You’re probably best off with on-demand charter. Somewhere in between? A card may be the best option.

The hybrid concept of a luxury hotel that sells some of its units as condominiums has become one of the most popular trends in the Real Estate industry in recent years. Individual condo owners like it because they enjoy the resort-style luxuries, and in many cases the hotel rents out their units when they’re away. The condo-hotel units that are rented are not the same as timeshares. Several factors have led to the current boom in condo-hotel projects—the improving performance of hotel companies, the recent investment appeal of real estate over the stock market, low interest rates and baby boomers approaching retirement who want to invest in a second home, with high end hotel amenities.

WHAT IT ISN’T

Condo Hotels are not private residence clubs, as condo hotel owners actually own the whole residence, not a fraction of it. Condo Hotels are not destination clubs either, where members own none of the residences. They are also not timeshares, because a condo-hotel unit is purchased outright, while a person owning a timeshare owns only the time where he or she occupies a unit.

HOW MUCH IS IT?

In general, the condo hotel residences range in price between $400,000 and $5M. Cost depends on location, quality of the amenities and the brand name. Also, cost depends on view, floor height, amenity quality and furnishings.

INCLUDES

Most condo hotels have exceptional features which can be used by the condo hotel owner: branded spas, sports facilities, fine dining, business centers, indoor and outdoor pools, concierge services. The onsite management company takes care of residence upkeep, management and all interaction with future renters.

THE PLAYERS

TOP DESTINATIONS

Miami | Orlando | Las Vegas | Chicago | New York | Turks and Caicos | Bahamas | Mexico | Dubai | Napa Valley

QUESTIONS TO ASK

Part 1 – Of the developer and of the project

- Who is the developer? What other condo hotel developments has the developer built?

- Who is the management company? What other condo hotel developments does this company manage?

- What are the planned uses for this development (condo hotel, hotel, residential, retail, commercial)? And how would that affect my unit?

- How many condo units will be included in this development?

- What is the range in floor plans and sizes of the condo units in this development?

- Has the price of the hotel condo units changed during the preconstruction sale period? If so, how often and by how

- Does this development carry the National Association of Condo Hotel Owners (NACHO) Seal of Approval?

Part 2 – Questions –about the Condo Unit and rental program details

- What are the monthly maintenance costs associated with my unit?

- Will there be any on-site storage available to owners?

- Are there living restrictions that limit the amount of time per year I can stay in my unit?

- If I stay beyond my allotted time, does the hotel offer a discounted hotel rate to owners?

- How much notice do I need to provide to guarantee availability of my unit?

- Are there any blackout dates during which owners may not stay in their units?

- What is the procedure and costs associated with opting into or out of the rental program?

- Are there fees such as departure fees, maid service fees, etc… that accrue when I stay in my unit?

- Which amenities will I have access to during my owner stays? Are there any additional fees for usage?

- What is the split of rental income between the management and the owner?

- How often is rent distributed to owners?

THE FINAL WORD

It is important to check out the reputation of both the hotel developer as well as the hotel management firm. It you are satisfied they are reliable, it is important to ask YOURSELF about your reasoning for choosing condo-hotels – will it be a lifestyle or will it be a financial investment for you? If the former, ask yourself will you interests be the same in 5-10 years or will they change? If the latter, will your condo hotel residence have the same appeal five to ten years in the future? If it is a financial investment, ask the development company about other condo hotel units in the area and how they have done. The condo-hotel has become extremely popular in recent years, however, in a capricious economy, it is best to be skeptical about any investment, whether it be lifestyle or fiscal or both.

Since its inception in the mid 90′s, the Destination Club industry has offered affluent families a broad portfolio of luxury private residences in resort areas around the world. In addition, club members enjoy amenities that include dedicated concierges, exceptional furnishings, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and ample space at each residence; flexible use and reservation plans allowing access to club residences, without the problems of exchanges, points or bidding; a refund on all or most of the upfront deposit associated with joining the club when the member wished to resign.

There are two types of destination clubs:

1. Non-equity based, meaning you pay the membership deposit and annual dues, and go enjoy yourself,

2. Equity (component), where, for your membership deposit, you buy shares or deeds in the club itself.

(a third Villa Rental/Hybrid/Destination Club model is emerging..)

WHAT IT ISN’T

It isn’t a timeshare, though it is a distant cousin. Timeshares do not provide luxury amenities, or, in general, are in extremely high end destinations. It also isn’t a high end fractional or Private Residence Club, as they generally sell partial ownership deeds to the residences.

HOW MUCH IS IT?

A wide range – the lower end Destination Club memberships range from $50,000 up, the highest end (Solstice), as of December 1 to $2.175M.  The time allotted for such pricing ranges from two weeks to three months, and more, space available.

THE PLAYERS

* DISCLAIMER: Some of companies listed below are in some form of bankruptcy protection.  Please contact the club for details.

Europe:

The Oyster Circle – Euro 330,000 to 400,000

The Hideaways Club – Euro 115,000 to 220,000

Hybrid:

The Society – Destination club quality without the membership fees. $1,000 to $10k / night

Exclusive Resorts – $120,000 – $365,000 membership fee + dues

Quintess – $210,000 – $895,000

The LUSSO Collection* – $325,000 – $425,000

Distinctive Holiday Homes* – $59,000 – $499,000

Ultimate Escapes – Three membership plans, range from $125,000 – $450,000.

Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club – $225,000 to $495,000

High Country Club* – $30,000 to $80,000

TOP DESTINATIONS

Aspen | London | Paris | Florence | New York | San Francisco | Napa Valley | Tuscany | Deer Valley, Utah | Scottsdale, AZ

QUESTIONS TO ASK

- What assurances can you provide that your club has enough assets (e.g. home equity, bond, or cash) to be able to redeem my membership deposit refund at any time?

- How can the club demonstrate this?

- What percentage of your members resigned last year? In the past year, how long, on average, have members waited to receive their refund? Is the time frame inside or outside of the contractual obligation?

- What is the current average appraised value of a club home? What future purchase plans can be shown to me? Where will 2009 homes be purchased?

- What system does the club use for holiday and peak period reservations?

- How does the club ensure there is  enough accessibility for members to travel on short notice?

- What is the ratio of member to residence?

- Can I visit a home before joining?

- What additional services are provided by the club and included in the annual dues? What services aren’t provided?

- When I will know if annual dues will be increased?

- Are there any extra fees or changes beyond the annual dues that I should be aware of?

THE FINAL WORD

- Make sure you have your attorney look over the contract

- If at all possible, speak to the company CEO

- Be sure of the fiscal transparency of the club and how it relates to your membership deposit refund

Timeshare is a vacation ownership concept that allows people to own a fraction of a product – whether it is a house, condo, boat, or plane – and use it during a period of time. The time used by the owner can either be contractually fixed to the same time period over and over; or it can be flexible, allowing the owner to use the time based on a reservation system.  Residence, condo or hotel space is typically bought in 1-3 week increments.

Luxury Timeshares (also referred to as fractionals) are often associated with branded hotel developers such as Disney, Marriott, Hilton Grand Vacations and Ramada. Each of these brands are also typically affiliated with one of the two major exchange networks, RCI (Wyndham) or Interval International (Nasdaq: IILG).

A useful guide to Vacation Ownership, provided by ARDA is available for download here.

WHAT IT ISN’T

Timeshare is not a Private Residence Club, though timeshare is a distant cousin. Timeshares in general, do not provide dedicated concierge services, ski and golf butlers, pre-arrival grocery shopping, limo transfers from the airport. Timeshare is not a destination club, as destination clubs are more expensive, in elite destinations, and provide more personalized services.

HOW MUCH IS IT?

The average price range of a timeshare interval sold was between $14,000 and $19,000.  Prices vary from resort to resort and the unit price or points is based on product type, location, unit size, amenities and supply.

INCLUDES

More spacious floor plans and home-like amenities, compared with traditional hotel accommodations;

. Flexibility and space, from studio units to spacious three bedroom villas;

. Fully equipped kitchen with dining area;

. Washer and dryer, stereo, televisions, DVD players/VCRs.

THE PLAYERS

Marriott Vacation Club

Hilton Grand Vacations Club

Starwood Vacation Ownership

Disney Vacation Club

Holiday Inn Club Vacations

Bluegreen Vacation Club

Exchange Networks

1. Resort Condominiums International (RCI)

- Over 3M “vacation owners”

- More than 3,700 resorts

- 101 countries

- Offers week-for-week and points-based timeshare opportunities.

Luxury Division: The Registry Collection

2. Interval International – Operating segment of Interval Leisure Group (Nasdaq: IILG)

- 1.9M vacation-owning members

- 2,400 resorts in 75 countries.

Luxury Division: Preferred Residences

TOP DESTINATIONS

Las  Vegas | Orlando | Miami | Palm Springs/Coachella Valley

San Diego | Lake Tahoe | Maui | Hawaii | Hilton Head

QUESTIONS TO ASK

1. What is the history of the resort timeshare components and the resort’s maintenance fees?  What is the yearly escalation rate?

2. What are the reservation policies?

3. How do I go about insuring that I will have the best possible chance of locking in a desired week?

4. What is the earliest date that I can make my reservations?  (This information will be important when it comes to using the property. If you buy a floating week, you will be competing with other owners for the week that you desire.)

5. What extra benefits will I receive when I purchase a timeshare?

6. Is there bonus time?

7. Can I trade with other resorts without joining an exchange company?

8. Does my timeshare give me access to anything other than just my unit?

9. What is the difference between “deeded,” “leased” and “licensed” timeshare?

10. How difficult is it to sell my timeshare and how is it done?

THE FINAL WORD

- Research timeshare options and contact companies with packages that fit your needs.

- Be sure the company you are considering is reputable. Check with the Better Business Bureau in the city where the company is based, ask for references from other timeshare owners, attend the timeshare sales presentation with a list of questions; make sure all of them are answered to your satisfaction. Consider carefully what the company is offering. Ask if there’s an after-purchase grace period so you can cancel if you change your mind.

Villa rentals are an emerging, extremely popular vacation strategy, allowing families to reside in high-end residences, usually with the concierge, limousine service, and culinary amenities of a high end hotel. These villa rentals are extremely popular in Europe, and are becoming equally so in the US.  Often included in daily or weekly pricing is the maid and concierge service.  Private chefs, tours of the area by a dedicated local destination guide are usually extra. Often, larger families with nannies reside at these villas as there is ample room, both inside and outside for everyone.

WHAT IT ISN’T

It is not a “destination club,” where you pay a membership deposit and annual dues. Nor is it a “private residence club” or “fractional residence” where you pay for a deeded interest to become part owner in the club or property. It is purely a rental, with services included or added in a menu of options.  It is not a timeshare where you buy space for a certain time each year. It functions on the high end hotel/resort model, where you pay for time spent at the villa. No contracts, deeds, or any commitments other than the time you reserve in advance and the service you ask for when reserving the time.

HOW MUCH IS IT?

A huge range — from $1000 per week to $325,000 per week, on average between $4000- $5000 a day,  depending on locale, square footage, and whether it is high or low season and the type of amenities preferred.

INCLUDES

Depending on agency or firm, villa rentals may include butler, maid, cook, driver and cleaning services.

PLAYERS

HomeAway

Sanctuary Villas

Suzanne Cohen & Associates

The Society

Villazzo VillaHotels

TOP DESTINATIONS

Tuscany | Provence | Marbella | Miami | Paris | Croatia | Cabo San Lucas | Aspen | Greek Islands | Napa Valley

QUESTIONS TO ASK

-  Is there a virtual tour of the property?

-  What is included in the rental price?

- Is the Villa child-proofed?

- Are pets allowed?

- Is there a grocery store nearby?

- Are there restaurants in the area?

- How often does maid service come

- Is there construction or extraneous noise nearby?

- Does the owner live on or near the property?

- Are all of the appliances in good working order?

- Is the Villa fully-equipped, linen- wise (sheets and towels) for residence?

THE FINAL WORD

- Ask for references

- Book early

- Get everything in writing

Fractional Residences, otherwise known as Private Residence Clubs – or PRCs – are high-end club based on the concept of fractional ownership. Owners purchase a share of a property and the size of the share denotes the amount of time that they can use the property. If a quarter share is purchased, it entitles the buyer to use the property thirteen weeks a year, and the ownership of that residence is shared with three others owners. Typical shares are 1/6, 1/7, 1/8, and 1/10.  Or, the owner can buy shares in the club itself. Many clubs also allow their owners to exchange the time they have available in their own property with different destinations within the club’s membership structure.

The PRC, unlike many fractionals, are located in high-end, prime vacation settings (beachfront, mountain, leisure resort, urban chic), and offer a range of private luxury villas, freestanding homes, and high rise apartments. Each property is furnished to the same high quality as an ultra-luxury hotel.

WHAT IT ISN’T

It isn’t a timeshare, where typically owners share space for a period of time, and own the time. But with PRCs, the owner owns either a share of the property or a share of the club itself.

It is not a destination club, where members are not owners; PRC owners actually own a piece of the residence or the club.

Fractional Residences at Calistoga Ranch - an Auberge du Soleil and LHW resort

HOW MUCH IS IT?

Typically, the cost of a PRC ranges from $250,000 per share to nearly a million. The average fraction size is 1/8.

INCLUDES

With many PRCS, the membership deposit includes a dedicated concierge, daily housekeeping, pre-arrival grocery shopping, destination hosts, and in some cases, ski and golf butlers, or even yacht memberships.

THE PLAYERS

The Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences |  The Four Seasons Residences |  Fairmont Heritage Place |  The St Regis Residences |  The Timbers Resorts |  Resort Equities |  Calistoga Ranch |  Palazzo Tornabuoni |  The Phillips Club |  Residences At The Little Nell |  Capella Pedregal

TOP DESTINATIONS

Aspen | Vail | Cabo San Lucas | Tuscany | New York Paris | London | Florence | Hawaii | Caribbean

QUESTIONS TO ASK

1.  What is covered by the annual Home Owners Association (HOA) fees?  Services covered by annual dues vary from company to company.

2.  What is not covered?  Other potential fees can consist of access to resort facilities and other luxury services such as health memberships, restaurants, pools, ski lift tickets, stocking fridge, green fees, as well as housekeeping and gratuity. Make sure you know what your fees cover.

3.  Are there any planned increases in annual fees? Annual fees are subject to change as the cost of living rises at the resort location. Be sure to ask if there are any other planned increases, especially if you are buying into an early phase of a PRC.

4.  Are units rented out when members are not in?  Property management rules do vary, but it is rare for the management to rent out a unit without owner consent.

5.  Is it possible to rent out our weeks when we are not using them? Renting can be an option for PRC and luxury fractional owners, but there are strict guidelines surrounding the issue. Most clubs will not allow owners to rent out units on their own.

6.  What is the legal nature of my ownership? Since you have bought a portion or fraction of a property, you will receive a deed to hold until you either sell it or will it to loved ones.

7.  How do I resell the property? There are two options for resale: sell the unit yourself, or go through the company’s broker.

THE FINAL WORD

As with any major purchase, be sure to be comfortable with what you are guaranteed, as well as what services are included, and what services are a la carte.

Also, make sure you are comfortable, long term, with the locations offered by the PRCs, as you will be going there, and other places offered by the company for a long time to come.

The Phillips Club

The Phillips Club was the first high-end fractional real estate investment product in New York. Its developers, Millennium Partners, opened its doors in 2000 and became enormously successful, as its location is unlike any other: right across the street from Lincoln Center. Millennium Partners has recently launched Phase II of The Phillips Club, also located in the heart of New York’s Lincoln Center neighborhood.

Phillips Club I and II offers its member-owners furnished luxury apartments and hotel-style services and amenities in an 88-unit building at 155 West 66th Street. The address had been the site of an extended-stay Phillips Club lodging developed by Millennium in the mid-1990s.

The new club offers 704 total memberships in 88 apartments — a single membership represents one-eighth ownership in a Club residence. The apartments in Phillips Club II include 14 studios, 62 one-bedrooms, and 12 two-bedrooms, with fractional share units ranging from $190,000 to $380,000. The Phillips Club also features public spaces, including an on-site business center and a members’ library-lounge with wireless Internet service. For many members, one of the unique aspects of club ownership is privileges to the Reebok Sports Club/NY, a block away on Columbus Ave.

www.phillipsclub.com

Equity Estates

Equity Estates was started because the founders recognized the appeal of owning and enjoying vacation homes around the world. By structuring the membership as an equity interest, its members are owners of the portfolio of luxury vacation homes acquired by the fund. Owners benefit from and participate in the 5 star concierge supported use of these phenomenal properties and in any appreciation of the real estate when it is sold.

The club’s first New York City home has been one of the most popular locations for members to visit. It has now added a second residence in Midtown West, just steps from Times Square. The latter is a two-bedroom/two-bathroom home features an Italian-style gourmet kitchen and floor-to-ceiling glass windows. The building includes a fitness center, business center, café, swimming pool and sundecks. There is also a residence lounge with a private screening room, available for entertaining guests, and a catering kitchen is located on-site to assist with members’ party-planning needs.

As of this writing, the member’s capital contribution is $375,000 per year, excluding annual dues for 30 nights at any one of their multi-million dollar residences.

www.equityestatesfund.com

Exclusive Resorts

Exclusive Resorts is the largest non-equity Destination Club in the world, where members pay their membership deposit, annual fees, do not own a share of the club or the residence, and just go play.

ER has 28 residences in New York, on Park Avenue Place in midtown, and The Trump International Hotel and Towers on Columbus Avenue and Central Park South. All are two bedrooms residences with full kitchens, dedicated concierge, and private fitness centers.  Membership deposits range from $160,000 for 10 nights to $500,000 for 60 nights.

www.exclusiveresorts.com

Quintess, Leading Residences Of The World

Quintess, Leading Residences Of The World, a non-equity destination club, has eight properties in New York, on 48th street in midtown.  Two of these are 25th floor penthouse residences, and from a private terrace the member can watch the New year’s eve ball drop from a private terrace.  The other residences range from one to two bedrooms residences, all midtown with personal dedicated member concierges, private chefs if desired, and exceptional ticket access to Broadway shows and events.

As with other high end, non-equity destination clubs, members pay their deposit, annual dues and go enjoy the $3-5M homes worldwide.  Membership payments range from $215,000 to $715,000 from 15 to 60 nights, annual dues excluded.

www.quintess.com

Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club

Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club is an equity-based club, where members are stakeholders. A&K is known worldwide for its luxury travel and tourism products, and members can take advantage of these trips to the most exotic places in the world, along with traveling to the greatest cities also.

A&K Residence Club has, as of this writing, one residence on New York’s  mid-upper east side at 205 East 59th street.  It is a two master suite, two bath residence, with 20 foot ceilings, a solarium, fireplace, and expansive city views from the 25th floor of the Manhattan 205 building.

Membership pricing for A&K Residence Club ranges from $225,000 for 15 days to $495,000 for 45 days.  Visit www.akresidenceclub.com for more information.

Resort Equities

The Resort Equities property in San Francisco is the Odeon Penthouse,  a top floor, only-one-of-its-kind 2,516 square foot, three bedroom, two bathroom residence. Featuring double-high ceilings and oversized windows, Odeon Penthouse reveals unimpeded views of the city.   The residence’s kitchen is stocked with signature series Viking™, Dacor™ and Bosch™ appliances. Odeon Penthouse has an upper floor devoted entirely to a large, private master suite with an extraordinary walk-in closet and dressing room. Granite and hardwood flooring are found throughout. Union Square’s world-class shopping, exceptional dining, unsurpassed theater and galleries are a mere stroll from Odeon Penthouse.

Each home in Resort Equities’ portfolio has an overall value of $2.5m to $4.5m.   Owners can use the property at least eight weeks each year when they purchase a 1/6th to 1/10 share. One-time purchase prices for shares run between $150,000 and $695,000. Annual dues range from $8,000 to $13,000 and include property taxes, insurance, utilities, a reserve for replacement and any club dues (if applicable). A Resort Equities ownership is a deeded one and owners are Tenants in Common (TIC). Visit www.resortequities.com

Fairmont Heritage Place

Fairmont Heritage Place is Fairmont’s first urban, luxury private luxury residence club. Once an illustrious chocolate factory in the 1800s, now a retail urban oasis, and home to the residences at Fairmont Heritage Place, San Francisco. These residences represent one of the city’s most distinctive options for prestigious second home ownership. Offering a total of 53 one-, two- and three-bedroom vacation residence options of fractional home ownership, with views of the San Francisco Bay, Fairmont Heritage Place has become greatly popular, and is almost sold out.  The homes all have a distinctive flair and have been designed for entertaining or intimate gatherings. The design schemes were inspired by the rich history and waterfront ambiance of its historic location.

Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square owners enjoy an array of unparalleled personalized services and amenities including 24-hour concierge, valet parking, priority spa reservations, pre-arrival grocery shopping, private chefs and wine tasting, storage for personal belongings, and reservations for dining, entertainment and local activities.

Pricing begins in the $300 -$400,000 range per 1/8 share. Website fairmontheritageplace.com

The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club

The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club, San Francisco, is located in the former Chronicle building at 690 Market Street, the West Coast’s first skyscraper, built in 1890.  The building is currently being renovated to provide 49 fractional and 52 wholly-owned residences. The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club program gives Members the opportunity to buy into a highly desirable location in San Francisco with an added benefit of signature brand services and amenities.  Building on its successful private residence club reputation, Ritz-Carlton has just announced its new Destination Club which will include its luxury fractional residences. The new destination club has two membership types.

Home Club Membership: the deeded fractional interest component –is  for members who choose to travel to a specific Club location on a recurring basis. Members have a deeded fractional interest in a specific Ritz-Carlton residence, and use an allocated number of days per interest for their vacations. Members may also use a portion of their time at other home Club locations on a recurring basis. This membership type is ideal for those who love a particular destination. Members with a Home Club preference enjoy up to 35 days of pre-reserved access at their specific Club annually, and can also use a portion of their time at other locations on a reciprocal use basis in accordance with reservation procedures. Home Club prices range from the low $100,000s to the low $800,000s per deeded interest.

Portfolio Membership: the destination club component –  is for members who prefer traveling to a variety of destinations. It is a points-based membership where members buy a certain number of points and then use them to stay at different locations. The number of points for each stay varies by location, size of residence and time of year. Members may also exchange 25 percent of their points for access to participating Ritz-Carlton hotels and resorts worldwide. This type of membership provides a beneficial interest in a trust which is secured by deeded real estate. An initial membership grants 5,000 Club points, but additional interests can be purchased in 2,500 Club point increments.  Portfolio Membership pricing starts at $130,000 for 5,000 annual Club points.

The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club lifestyle includes pre-arrival provisioning of the residences, signature personal concierge services, storage of personal items, assisting with travel arrangements, and twice-daily housekeeping. Website ritzcarltondestinationclub.com

Exclusive Resorts

Exclusive Resorts is the largest non equity residence club in the world, with over 3400 members, and a $2B real estate portfolio, offering its members access to more than 400 homes in the most sought-after vacation destinations in the world. Additionally, the club offers its members a variety of private Once In A Lifetime experiences, taking them to historic, outlying destinations on all seven continents. ER’s business model is that of a non-equity club,  very much like a country club, where the members pay a membership deposit and annual dues, allowing them a right to use to all the homes ER has to offer.

Exclusive Resorts has twelve residences at the Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square. Each is a two bedroom residence with full kitchen, approximately 1200square feet.  Further information on this project is mentioned above.

Membership deposits range from $160,000 for 10 nights to $500,000 for 60 nights. Website exclusiveresorts.com

With the multiplicity of fractional, PRC, and destination club products in the united States, it is no wonder that Canada is a fertile ground for the shared residence idea. Though there are not as many as in the U.S., those that Canada does have are substantial, and more are growing in popularity.
At present, only two high end destination clubs have residences in Canada, but there are many high and mid-range fractionals that are paving the way.

Exclusive Resorts

Exclusive Resorts is the largest non-equity Destination Club in the world, where members pay their membership deposit, annual fees, do not own a share of the club or the residence, and just go play.  Membership deposits range from $160,000 for 10 nights to $500,000 for 60 nights

Exclusive Resorts has four residences, in Whistler, BC. Each is a  four bedroom, 4200sf residence on Whistler Mountain, with separate steam room  — all with commanding views of the valleys and mountains, all near Whistler Creekside.

www.exclusiveresorts.com

M Private Residences

As Canada’s first and largest Equity Destination Club, M Private Residences’ Members collectively own a diversified property portfolio. M Members have access to a variety of vacation residences averaging from $2-$3 million with locations all over the world. The membership fees range from $180,000 – to $360,000, from 21 to 60 nights a year, excluding annual dues.

At present, M Private Residences has lodging in the following Canadian locations:

Kelowna, BC –   A 3,600 square foot home, 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, 2 fireplaces, Private outdoor BBQ area, Private boat lift

Bear Mountain – This hilltop home overlooks the Jack and Steve Nicklaus co-designed golf course, as well as Bear Mountain views of the Pacific Ocean. The nearby Westin Bear Mountain Resort features five different dining venues, from casual to sushi and fine dining, as well as the Santé spa.

The home also has 5,000 square feet of living area 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, Large private outdoor deck and firepit, Private outdoor hot tub, Pool table

Victoria, B.C.- A top floor residence at The Shutters, vacation residences 10 minutes from downtown Victoria, 1,904 square feet.

Whistler – M’s Whistler home is located on the Nicklaus North Golf Course. The home is within walking distance of hiking and biking trails and is a five-minute drive from the renowned Village of Whistler ski resort. Whistler/Blackcomb is known as one of the top downhill ski destinations in North America  The residence is situated on the 16th tee box of Nicklaus North Golf Course. It is a 2,359 square foot townhome 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, Private hot tub, Fireplace

www.mprivateresidences.com

Northstar Mountain Village – Kimberley, BC

Kimberley, BC is a small ski community in the south eastern corner of British Columbia just north of the U.S. Border. The City population (6,484) enjoys views overlooking the fertile and beautiful Kootenay River Valley and the Rocky Mountains to the east.

Northstar Mountain Village Resort is a community  that combines whole ownership, rentals and fractional residences with ski-in/ski-out access to the Kimberley Alpine resort, with 68 runs, and 8 lifts on 1800 skiable acres. Base elevation is 4000 feet, summit is 6500 feet.

Quarter share ownership ranges from $149,000 to $159,000 for 12 weeks of use.  Residences range from 1610sf to 1834 sf, all have 3 bedrooms, 3 baths,plus access to the Alpine Club, the 10,000sf the property club house with pool, hot tub, fitness facilities and extra amenities.

www.northstarmountainvillage.com

Whitewater Village, Ottawa, Ontario

Whitewater Village, located where the Ottawa River flows into the Rocher-Fendu lake, is a club that has showcased a variety of sustainable development ideas as it was built by one of Canada’s green developers. Featuring geothermal heating and cooling, solar hot water and electricity, the development lies northeast of Ottawa near rapids that draw whitewater rafters and kayakers from around the world.

Whitewater Village is surrounded by a 4,000-acre land trust to keep further development at bay, aims to be carbon neutral and will have a peat moss sanitation system. The exterior of the cottages, generally two-storey structures of 1,700 square feet, will be constructed of logs certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.Interior features will include bamboo floors, wool carpets, formaldehyde-free kitchen cabinets and recycled-paper countertops.

There are 38 cottages on 35 acres of treed land. It is a four season development, where the cottages will be sold on a fractional basis – 6 weeks, from prices ranging from $60,000 to $85,000.

www.whitewatervillage.ca

Frontenac Shores

Frontenac Shores is the first luxury year-round fractional resort in the township of North Frontenac. Located in the heart of the Land O’Lakes region in southern Ontario.   Frontenac Shores is located on Mississagagon Lake; a completely spring fed premier lake in the heart of Land O’Lakes vacation region. Frontenac Shores is less than 3 hours from Toronto and less than 2 hours from Ottawa located near the village of Cloyne Ontario,

Offering 34 residences, either 2 bedroom single story ranch style, a 3 bedroom single story ranch style or a 3 bedroom loft style, these homes range in size from 1,949 – 2,138 sq. ft. (including screened porch and sundeck) they also come complete with a fully equipped, gourmet kitchen, screened porch with private sauna, sundeck with BBQ, two baths with a thermal air massage tub in the private master ensuite, high speed internet, telephones and two LCD TV’s with satellite service.

Pricing per share ranges from $60,000 – $90,000 per share. The member/owner may purchase up to seven (7) shares.

www.frontenacshores.com

Pacific Shores Resort and Spa

Located on Nanoose Bay on the East Coast of Vancouver Island, The Pacific Shores Resort and Spa offers fractional and whole ownership fractional residence opportunities.

The fractional residences are 1200sf, two bedroom, two bath properties located within the resort space, where there are also 15 acres of botanical gardens, the Aquaterre Spa, as well as complimentary kayaks and canoes.

Prices range ¼ shares from $149,900 to $192,900 CDN. Owners have at least 6 weeks/year of usage. Each owner has a fixed prime block of 4 weeks from June to September and between October – May, a rotating 14 night block every 8 weeks. Owners also are able to swap their time, for blocks of 30-60 days in a row. It is also possible to purchase ½ ownership blocks, or as many as needed up to whole ownership – which can be purchased also.

www.pacific-shores.com

Parkside Victoria

On Wharf Street in downtown Victoria, BC is the Parkside Victoria Resort and Spa. Like many urban fractionals, this one is quite successful, as over 75% of the residences have been sold before completion.

Victoria, BC is located on the southern tip of Vancouver island, and is a major port as well as tourist destination, hosting over 3  and a half million visitors a year.  It is a very popular capital city, due to the mild maritime climate, and the exceptional British influence that infuses the city. The Parskide Victoria include rooftop gardens, a penthouse lounge, a 25meter pool, a hot tub and fitness facilities.

The fractional ownership is structured as  1/8 and ¼ interests.  1/8 interests for 2 bedrooms, 2 bath residences range from $95,000 to $150,000CDN, the 1 bedroom, two bath residences range from $ 76,000 to $125,000.CDN

The ¼  shares from 1 bedroom, 1 bath range from $142,000, to 3 bedroom, 3 baths residences  at $343,000CDN

On Ocean’s Edge, Labrador/Newfoundland, Canada

While fractional ownership looks to be taking off in Ontario and in British Columbia, there  is also a unique fractional  cliff-side sanctuary named Ocean’s Edge, situated minutes from St. John’s, Nfld.

The  luxury of the development’s 2,800-3,600-sq. ft., four-bedroom villas does not come cheap: a one-12th share sells for $138,000 CDN, a one-quarter share sells for $350,000. On top of that, maintenance fees for each villa run at $55,000 in total, or nearly $4,600 per one-eighth share. That has not deterred owners who range from Canadians looking for a unique vacation spot to Europeans and homesick Newfoundlanders, says Robert Hall, co-owner of Nolan Hall, developer and operator.

The On Ocean’s Edge residences are located on the eastern tip of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. The homes feature stone-carved fireplaces, gourmet kitchens, Tempur-pedic  beds, plasma TV’s, walk-in closets, a master suite with private balcony and relaxing hydrotherapy tub.
The leisure spaces in the home comes equipped with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, media room, backyard and oceanview hot tub. Amenities also include a truck, SUV or car such as the Mercedes ML 320, personalized concierge service and enrollment in a vacation exchange program.

www.onoceansedge.com

Spirit Ridge Vineyard Resort and Spa, Osoyoos, British Columbia

At the other end of the spectrum, in terms of geography and scale, is resort specialist Bellstar Hotels and Resorts. The Edmonton-based company owns or operates 10 vacation properties in Alberta and British Columbia, including two of its own B.C. properties where it is selling fractions running between $80,000 to $125,000CDN for a one-eighth share at its residences at its Spirit Ridge Vineyard Resort and Spa in the Okanagan Valley.  With views of Osoyoos Lake and surrounding vineyards, the property is billed as a desert golf getaway with nearby hiking, biking and skiing opportunities.
Sonora Dunes Golf Course is part of the Spirit Ridge development . Every tee box overlooks orchards, vineyards and the desert landscapes that surround Osoyoos Lake.

www.ownspiritridge.com

BigHorn Meadows Resort, Radium Hot Springs, British Columbia

Bighorn Meadows Resort is a fractional ownership resort development, in the middle of The Springs Golf Course in Radium Hot Springs, BC.  And Radium Hot Springs is very close four national parks, Banff and Mt. Assiniboine. Yoho, and Kootenay. Radium Hot Springs is indeed located within the boundaries of Kootenay National Park, which has the same mountain peaks and glaciers as Banff National Park. Visitors come for the natural hot springs, and Canada’s largest hot springs pool.

Bighorn Meadows is on a 9-acre site surrounded on three sides by the Springs at Radium Golf Resort in the Village of Radium Hot Springs. The development consisting of 123 one, two and three bedroom suites, with living room walkout balconies with BBQ; fireplaces; high end designer fixtures and furnishings which include leather, tile and granite; and lock-off units.  The suites range in size from 700 to 1450sf, and ¼ share ranges from $112,600 CDN , 1/8 from $59,300 and a 3week fractional title from $29,800.

www.bighornmeadows.ca

BigHorn Mountain Resort, Canmore, British Columbia

The Bighorn Mountain Resort is Canmore’s only Private Residence Club. Nestled in the Bow Valley on the Front Ranges of the Canadian Rocky Mountains the resort surrounded by 2.8 million acres of protected wilderness, yet is an hour from Calgary, 5 minutes to Banff National Park.  For the outdoor person, winter brings world-class downhill, heli- and Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating and even dogsledding. The remaining seasons bring hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing, as well as fishing, canoeing and kayaking in the waters of the Bow River.

The  20 fractional 2400sf  residences start at $250,000CDN per 1/8 share, entitling the member/owner to six weeks per year. Additional use is  booked space available.  Homes include three master bedrooms, 3 ½ baths 14 foot beamed ceilings, 4 fireplaces, 2 steam showers  as well as four decks and patios.
www.bighorncanmore.com

Pinnacle Ridge, Fernie, British Columbia.

Fernie is nestled in the heart of the  Canadian Rockies; set against the  Lizard Range, and flanked by the peaks of the Three Sisters and Hosmer Mountains.  Pinnacle Ridge has three home designs, with the fractional chalets  ranging from 1824 – 2537 sf., with slate floors, expansive fire places, spa bathrooms,  two and three bedroom suites.  Pricing ranges from $200,000 per quarter share to over $520,000 for full ownership.

www.pinnacle-ridge.com

Touchstone on Lake Muskoka

Touchstone on Lake Muskoka has been built on a 25 acre site that was once home to Tamwood Lodge and Aston Beach Resort. Wherever possible the original foundations of the old buildings have been used to minimize the impact on the surroundings.

It is also a Private Residence Club, where member/owners can choose the type of residence they want, and can choose the time they wish to stay.  If the buyer plans to use the residence 13-weeks per year, then they need only purchase one quarter of their cottage or villa of choice. Thirteen weeks of ownership entitle purchasers to two fixed weeks of ownership per year in July or August, plus one fixed week every month for the balance of the year, plus one “long weekend week” every year.

Families can choose lakefront cottages with direct walk-out access to a white sand beach or select a two or three bedroom villa perched atop a rocky cliff with uninterrupted lake views
The developers – GenerX Corp. and the Rose Corp. – came up a master-planned home development of 75 homes made up of three and four-bedroom cottages and villas.

The Grand Muskokan Cottages range in price from $274,000 to $339,000 CDNfor 13 weeks of ownership per year of a 2,132-square-foot three bedroom cottage, or 2,805-square-foot four-bedroom cottage, respectively.

Cascade two-bedroom suites, or two and three bedroom villas, range in price from $164,000 to $349,000CDN for 13 weeks of ownership per year for units ranging in size from 1,074 — 2,618 square feet.

The three-bedroom Tree Top Villas are 2,889 square feet, and are priced at $399,000 for 13 weeks of ownership.  If an owner isn’t using their property during their weeks, they can place it in a rental pool to gain some revenue,

www.touchstoneonlakemuskoka.com

Additional Fractionals

Below are a multiple number of smaller cottage fractionals in various places in Ontario, Canada.

Canadian Waters Vacations – Brockville
Norwood Resorts – Collingwood
Chandler Point (Marcus Beach) – Haliburton
The Cottages at Port Stanton – Muskoka
Diamond´s Edge Muskoka – Muskoka
Lakeside at Rocky Crest – Muskoka
Inaski Shores – Kawartha Lakes
The Lodge at Pine Cove – French River
The Muskokan – Muskoka
The Cottages of Stoneridge Cove – Westport
Seasons of Muskoka – Muskoka
Touchstone On Lake Muskoka – Muskoka
Resort Tapatoo – Parry Sound
Blue Water Acres – Huntsville
Frontenac Shores – Cloyne
The Shorelines – Peacock Bay
Wolfe Springs Resort – Westport/Rideau Lakes
Woodland Echoes Resort – Magnetawan
Whitewater Village – Renfrew
Cottages at the Pointe – Peterborough
Painter’s Landing – Kearney

I personally enjoy everything about wine. I live and work in the Napa Valley and spend my weekends driving to Anderson Valley to taste Pinot Noir, Amador County to try California’s signature Zinfandel, and Paso Robles or Lodi for interesting Rhone varietals. It is also how my wife and I plan our vacations. Do we want a villa in Tuscany? a “Bike ‘n Barge” in Burgundy? an adventure trip to New Zealand? or a safari in South Africa? – just so we can have an excuse to experience a new wine region.

Name: Crushpad Location: San Francisco, CA Costs: $5,600-$12,500 total; $17-$40/bottle For: 25 cases, costs depend on vineyard source and varietals. Details: SF (and now Bordeaux!)-based Crushpad offers their 5,000+ clients the ability to participate in the process of wine-making by creating a wine plan, selecting from over 50 vineyard sources from Santa Barbara to Mendocino, then picking, barreling and bottling, which takes a full year “from grapes to glass.” The finished product is a high-quality wine that has your label on it. Programs are as hands on, or hands-off, as you wish. Open House – June 20th

Name: Mayacama Vintners Club Location: Sonoma, California Costs: Villas from the low $300k’s for 35 nights/year and Casitas from the low $200k’s for 28 nights/year. For: Fractional ownership of Casitas or Villas, access to Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, spa, tennis, concierge and other luxury amenities. Details: Wine has always been an integral part of the Mayacama experience. Mayacama Members and Owners have exclusive access to 31 of the most esteemed wineries in Napa and Sonoma, such as Kistler, Araujo Estate and Marcassin, through the Club’s distinctive Vintner Member program. The invitation-only program carefully considers select wineries for memberships—Vintner Members are a group of industry icons and pioneers, including Jess Jackson, Dennis Cakebread and William Harlan. The result is in an unparalleled group of wine industry stars woven into the fabric of the Mayacama community. Each Vintner Member provides approximately one barrel of their best wine each year for Member allocation, in addition to hosting a private, Members-only event at their winery or the Mayacama Clubhouse. The Vintner program also allows Members access to limited vintages and special events. Vintner Members are visible participants at the Club, whether they’re playing the course or hosting an exclusive tasting in the Clubhouse’s Wine Cave. Because of this, Mayacama Members have the unique opportunity for camaraderie with some of the best winemakers in the country.

Name: Calistoga Ranch Location: Calistoga, Napa Valley, California Costs: $475k and up For: Fractional Ownership in a spacious 2-bedroom/2-bath, architecturally-innovative, environmentally-sensitive lodge, as well as membership in Vintner Member Program Details: For Lodge Owners, the Vintner Member Program offers a special entrée into the legendary wine culture of the Napa Valley and an exclusive insider relationship with the families and wineries in this spectacular world renowned area. This group of handpicked vintner members includes some of the larger, more recognizable wineries in the country as well as small, award-winning artisan winemakers. Vintner Members Nils and Kirk Venge are the highly respected winemakers behind Calistoga Ranch\’s private label. The celebrated and diverse Vintner Members enlighten Lodge Owners through a wide range of unique, entertaining and educational experiences. In addition to providing private tastings and dinners at Calistoga Ranch throughout the year, vintners host new release celebrations, harvest festivals, wine blending parties and pairing classes. As an owner you’ll be invited to special dinners at Vintner Member estates and could be among the first to purchase limited edition releases.

Name: Orchard at Carneros- a Timbers Resort Property Location: Carneros, Napa Valley, California Costs: $300k per interest For: 1/10th deeded fractional ownership where owners have the opportunity to use their vacation home as often as they like, subject only to space availability in one of the 17 fully furnished two-bedroom luxury Cottages, an exclusive Owners’ Lounge, and a wealth of five-star services and amenities – The Spa, fine dining options, Concierge services and more. Details: Personal tastings, pairings, tours, and customized wine experiences prepared by dedicated concierge and wine director on staff.

Name: Vines of Mendoza Location: Mendoza, Argentina Costs: N/A For: Your own vineyard, along with expert vineyard management and winemaking services. Details: Owners receive their own vineyard planted to their unique specifications. Extreme care goes into every aspect of vineyard design which is based on extensive research, analysis and recommendations performed by our team of professionals. Owners can plant several varietals of grapes sourced from the best nurseries in Argentina and Europe. Currently, almost 50 owners have planted 250 acres to 10 different varietals and a total of 320,000 vines.

We are aware of other operations doing very wine-centric programs, but these are the ones we feel provide the most unique experiences.

About the Author: Chris Cutler is the founder of, and editorial contributor to, FraxFinder. He also owns Wines of Redemption, a Napa Valley-based producer of single-vineyard Pinot Noir.