Endless Vacation Magazine Spring/Summer 2014 Middle East Edition

EXTRA HOLIDAYS FROM $489 BACK PAGE

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MALTESE MEMORIES

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DREAMING OF ITALY

SPRING / SUMMER 2014

E AT | P L AY | S H O P | R E L A X | E X P LO R E

Island Delights FUN IN THE CANARIAN SUN

40 CELEBRATING

YEARS OF HOLIDAYS

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS MEAR0414

You’ve made the

right choice...

No one else offers you such a wide variety of Exchange Holiday choices!

RCI is part of Wyndham Exchange and Rentals which means we have partnered with our sister companies to bring you more varied and different exchange options from a cosy cottage to a luxury villa.*

EASY PLANNING. EASY BOOKING. VISIT RCI.com OR CALL +971 (0)4 390 1680 (Arabic), +971 (0)4 390 1670 (English) OR (02) 2417 8323 (Egypt residents only)

Terms and Conditions: *RCI Standard Terms of Membership apply. Exchange options with sister companies are limited and subject to availability and their booking conditions.

RCI celebrated 40 successful years in February and we couldn’t have done it without you! To thank you for helping us to reach our 40th anniversary we are giving you the presents in our RCI Big 40 Prize Draw!

Don’t miss out – see page 4 for details of our great prizes and how to enter.

As you diary in holiday dates for the year ahead, are you sure that you are making the most of your RCI Weeks?

We have noticed that some members are letting their weeks expire because they can’t take the time out during their Use Year – or simply don’t notice the expiry dates are looming...

So we have personalised your RCI Account Statement to alert you when an expiry date is drawing near. Better still, we have introduced more ways to use your weeks so you can go further on holiday with RCI than ever before. To learn how you can get the best value from your RCI membership, see page 14.

So all you have to do now is choose where in the world you want to go. My wife is from Finland which means that beautiful country has become a firm family favourite and is already on our 2014 holiday calendar.

Many things have changed in our business since we sent our first member families on holiday in 1974. However, the one constant is our total commitment to you — and that will never change.

Sean Lowe Managing Director RCI Europe, Middle East, Africa and India

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Our Story

YEARS OF HOLIDAYS

On 4 February this year RCI celebrated 40 fabulous years of making holiday dreams a reality. Here are some of our memorable milestones which have helped shape your experience.

1974

RCI established its first office in Indianapolis with 453 members

2004

RCI celebrates 30th anniversary and 3 million members

1975

First Resort Directory was published

2008

1976

First Office outside the US opens in Mexico

Enhanced online search functions introduced and RCI welcomes its 4,000th resort to its network

1977

London Office opens

2009

1980s

Ten further offices open across the globe

RCI TV is launched, the first online video network for timeshare owners

1986

Holiday Magazine – now Endless Vacation – is launched

2010

1991

HQ opens in Kettering, Northamptonshire, in the UK

1994

Cairo office opens

1996

RCI.com is launched

RCI is the first exchange holiday services company to give members Trading Power transparency and RCI Platinum Membership is launched to deliver a new level of exclusive benefits

1999

Cork Call Centre opens to service European members

2012

Mobile version of RCI.com is introduced

2014

RCI.com gets a new look and feel for an even greater online search and booking experience

2000

RCI Points, first global points-based exchange programme is launched

2003

Call Centre opens in Dubai

Dates for your diary...

Login to RCI.com or call us today!

MEMBER SERVICES: +971 (0)4 390 1680 (Arabic) +971 (0)4 390 1670 (English) (02) 2417 8323 (Egypt residents only)

Here are key dates to help you in your holiday planning: 18-25 April Easter Holiday

28 June to 28 July Ramadan

15 June to 31 August School Holidays

28 July to 31 July Eid Holiday

40 YEARS OF HOLIDAYS

4-11 October Eid Holiday

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MEMBER NEWS

Welcome

CELEBRATING

MEMBER NEWS

40

BIG

Prize Draw

There are lots of prizes to be won in our Big 40 Prize Draw…

5 x FREE Exchanges

5 x RCI Platinum Memberships For One Year

5 x Tag And Track Packs (tagandtrack.com)

Entering couldn’t be easier! Simply login to RCI.com before 26 May 2014 to be entered into the Prize Draw. Good Luck!

Visit rcitc2.com for full terms and conditions.

Happy Anniversary to our members…

T WO LO C A L M E M B E R S A R E C E L E B R AT I N G R C I A N N I V E R S A R I E S O F T H E I R OW N !

Ihab Husseini from Abu Dhabi, who has been with RCI for five years and won 25% off an exchange, and Ahmed Labib Elhusseiny (pictured) from Egypt, who has won a free exchange with trading power protection – following 20 years with RCI. Members with 5, 10, 15 and 20 years of membership were entered into RCI’s Anniversary Prize Draw and we congratulate the lucky winners.

Endless Vacation, The RCI Magazine, is published twice a year by RCI Europe. Original articles and contributions may be reproduced or transmitted with written permission from the Publisher.

No responsibility is accepted by RCI Europe for any losses or consequences resulting from material appearing in this publication. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in Endless Vacation, no responsibility can be accepted for errors or omissions. Information is correct at time of going to press (March 2014). All offers are subject to terms and conditions and limited availability. © RCI Europe 2014. RCI Big 40 Prize Draw: For full terms and conditions please visit rcitc2.com. Alternatively written details are available upon request - please write to The Editor, RCI, Kettering Parkway, Kettering, NN15 6EY, England, UK. The Promoter is RCI Europe, registered address Kettering Parkway, Kettering, NN15 6EY, England. The Promoter reserves the right to provide an alternative Prize of similar value should the Prizes become unavailable. Open to European and ME residents aged 21 or over, with one (1) entry per participant. Prizes are non-transferable. No cash alternative. Entry is free and no purchase necessary. Employees of Wyndham Worldwide and its group of companies, and their families are not permitted to enter. Prize Draws open from 9am on the 14th April 2014 and close 26th May 2014 at 11.59pm GMT. Entries received after this time will not be accepted. Winners will be selected on 9th June 2014 and notified by phone/email. Only one login entry per member ID. Multiple entries will not be accepted. RCI accepts no responsibility for entries that are lost, delayed, misdirected or incomplete and/or cannot be delivered or entered for any technical or other reason. Proof of delivery is not proof of receipt by RCI.The Promoter reserves the right to withdraw, extend or amend the Prize Draw. Winners grant the Promoter permission to use their name and likeness for advertising and promotional purposes without additional compensa-

4 SPRING / SUMMER 2014 |

40 YEARS OF HOLIDAYS

Forty decades later and the ties between RCI and our founder, Christel DeHaan, are as close as ever.

Christel established The Christel House Charity 16 years ago which is RCI’s charity of choice. In 2003 we launched the annual RCI Christel House Open – regarded as the world’s largest multi-day charity golf event. The tournaments have raised an amazing $8.2 million for the charity, which gives underprivileged children around the world food, care, education and a future.

Christel explains: “Christel House focuses on lasting transformation, not temporary sustenance. It is the

NEW RCI Horizons

Christel DeHaan (centre) with European marketing team members, Kate Karagholi (left) and Jo Hobbs at RCI’s US global headquarters.

difference between giving a man a fish for a meal today and teaching him to fish to provide for himself and his family in the future.” To learn more visit christelhouse.org

Meet your RCI team

Our staff are dedicated to providing you with the highest quality service, widest holiday choices and great value.

We are now featuring interviews with our Guides, so you can meet the faces behind the phone calls in Endless Vacation. This edition we bring you Hamdi Mustafa Mohamed who has worked at RCI for five years.

RCI is bringing you more resorts – and a wider choice of fabulous destinations.

RCI added 175 new resort properties to its exchange holiday network in 2013 bringing the total number of resorts available to RCI members to nearly 4,500. Here are three resorts to come on board in Egypt.

Hamdi usually holidays with friends, and we were curious to know the best thing about his job: “I love going that extra mile to send a member on their RCI exchange holiday. It’s especially satisfying when they call me to tell me it’s one of the best holidays they have been on.”

One of Hamdi’s most memorable holidays was in Sinai, Egypt. “We camped in some great beach areas, exploring the mountains, snorkelling and during the evenings, we relaxed and enjoyed a barbeque.”

H A M D I ’ S TO P T I P S …

• Call us as early as possible so you get the most holiday choices available • Enjoy the best of both worlds: book one week to explore and one to relax.

tion. Competitions are governed by English law. The Promoter’s decision is final. Entry confirms participants’ agreement to be bound by the terms and conditions. Exchange Planner: Information regarding historical inventory supply and average Exchange Trading Power is there to assist with holiday planning; it is not and should not be construed as a representation or guarantee to satisfy an Exchange Request. Additionally, inventory supply may vary due to holidays and peak travel periods and you should anticipate less availability and higher trading power requirements during these periods. Values given are correct as at 29.11.13. Resort Offers: Offers are made available by selected resorts and to accept the offer you must contact the resort directly. Please confirm details of the offer when you contact the resort. RCI only acts as an advertiser and is not responsible for the provision of these offers or any of the details set out in the offers. RCI Resort Reviews: Have been condensed and are extracted from RCI.com. For complete member reviews on featured resorts visit RCI.com. Not all the information in this magazine is applicable to Clubs members.

Sharm Bride Hotel and Residence (D024) is set against the natural backdrop of the Red Sea and is perfect for an Egyptian getaway for couples and families alike.

Located on Nabq Bay, the resort features two pools, childrens club and restaurant.

Sharks Bay Oasis Resort and Residence (D701) offers exceptional views of the Red Sea and Tiran Island. Enjoy snorkelling off the resort’s private beach, take a dip in one of four pools, dine on seafood at the beach restaurant or take a wander into Soho Square to explore the shops and entertainment.

Jasmine Resort and Residence (D624) offers the best of both worlds: it is close to the lively Namaa Bay, but is also a perfect oasis of peace away from the city life.

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MEMBER NEWS

Forty Years Of Friendship

E X P LO R E THE CANARIES

RCI GUIDE TIP When in Lanzarote visit Bar La Cueva at Nazaret in Teguise. Candles and natural lighting create a special ambience in this small yet stunning bar. Situated at the foot of the volcano, it is surrounded by small seated caves in a romantic setting. – Gabriell Luksander

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WORLDS OF DELIGHT

The real beauty of the Canary Islands is in the surprising variety of family holiday activities that can be enjoyed – in year-round sunshine.

PHOTOS, THIS SPREAD: SUPERSTOCK, ALAMY (4), THINKSTOCK. NEXT PAGE: SUPERSTOCK, ALAMY, JEANETTE PARKIN

B Y J E A N E T T E PA R K I N

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here’s something quite special about the Canary Islands. Sunshine and friendly Spanish smiles greet you as you arrive on one of the holiday islands that make up this enchanting archipelago, which sits in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa.

From the cool blues of the ocean that lap onto beaches of golden, white and black sands, to the heights of the magical volcanoes – there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

You can hit the beaches, swim and snorkel in warm waters, meander in the sand dunes or clamber aboard boats to see frolicking dolphins. The water parks are perfect for a splashing good time, while gentle sea breezes keep the islands from getting too hot.

Consider island hopping on a day trip or multi-centre holiday to see the best of the Canaries.

ISLAND ROUND-UP: (Main) Tower of Power ride at Siam Park, Tenerife 1. Surfing school in Corralejo, Fuerteventura. 2. Dolphin show at Palmitos Park, Gran Canaria. 3. Palmitos Park, Gran Canaria. 4. Sand dunes of Maspalomas. 5. Windsurfing at beach near Corralejo, Fuerteventura.

The temptations of Tenerife Take a new look at Tenerife, the most popular hotspot in the Canaries.

Crowned by the incredible Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, and ringed by natural black sand beaches, Tenerife offers plenty to do for all ages.

At Loro Parque, watch dolphins and whales showing off, or find Nemo the clownfish in the incredible aquarium, where everyone will be wowed by the shark tunnel.

The south coast waters are the best for watching the magnificent dolphins

and whales, up close in their natural environment, as various species of whale and dolphin make annual migrations past the island. Screams of delight will let you know you are nearing Siam Park’s water slides and wave pools (siampark.net), a perfect family day out. In contrast, enjoy the complete peace of a family canter on horseback across the captivating island landscape of hills and beaches.

Make a beeline for the exciting capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. For a unique glimpse into local life in this city,

LAID BACK LIVING: Papagayo Beach in Lanzarote.

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STAY WHY NOT TRY ONE OF THESE RESORTS? EXCHANGE TRADING POWER FROM 10 X

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UK PANEL HEADERS TENERIFE

PRIMARY

PRIMARY

ONDARY

SECONDARY

ERTIARY

TERTIARY

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Hollywood UK Resort Name Mirage / Panel 2429 Title 0000

GRAN CANARIA

PRIMARY

ONDARY

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UK Resort Name / Panel Title 0000 Bahia Blanca 1989 Exchange Planner Exchange Planner

Use these calendars to see the average Use these calendars to see the average trading power previously required to book trading power previously required to book an Exchange, and the past availability. an Exchange, and the past availability.

UK Resort name / panel title Tenerife J

F M A M J

J A S O N D

15 14 18 16 15 10 14 10 17 15 8 12 13 12 11 10 11 12 11 10 13 14

UK GranResort Canaria name / panel title J

F M A M J

J A S O N D

15 19 18 16 12 14 15 14 15 17 15 12 8 12 18 18 15 17 10 17 19 17

UK Resort name / panel title Fuerteventura J

F M A M J

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15 18 16 12 8 12 10 9 10 9 15 8 14 7 17 9 15 12 12 11 10 11 11

UK Resort name / panel title Lanzarote J

F M A M J

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15 18 16 14 12 17 12 15 13 12 16 10 16 8 12 13 14 13 12 15 11 10

Availability: Availability: Very Very High High High Moderate Moderate Low Low

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Easy Planning Easy Booking Login to Login RCI.com* to RCI.com* today fortoday more for resort more informaresort information, tion, or to book. *or *or see see page page X 3 for contact details Terms This bitand is automatically Conditions: Exchange bold: UKTrading T+C’s Power value: Based on resort 1989 – one bedroom on 19.07.14 Correct as of 19.12.13 but subject to change and availability. Exchange Planner: see Page 4.

8 SPRING / SUMMER 2014 |

TURNING UP THE HEAT: 1.

Geyser at Timanfaya. 2. Caves at Barranco de Guayadeque, Gran Canaria. 3. Cooking over the volcano in Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote.

travel in February or March at the start of Lent to see the colours of the annual carnival explode onto the streets.

Out of this world in Lanzarote Running at a more relaxed pace, Lanzarote’s lunar-like landscape is the ideal setting to let imaginations – both young and old – run wild and free.

Lanzarote’s beaches are worthy of any postcard. From tiny coves washed by aquamarine waters, to huge ribbons of sand and rolling seas that are ideal for water sports, Lanzarote caters for all beach lovers. The crystal-clear lagoon of Caleton Blanco, near Orzola in the north, is surrounded by white sands and rocky shelters, and is perfect for a quiet paddle.

Timanfaya National Park was carved out by fiery volcanoes creating the Fire Mountains within the park. The spurting geysers and the giant rocky barbecue that harnesses the sizzling heat of the earth will amaze.

Head underwater for a unique look at Lanzarote – and you don’t even have to get wet. Submarine Safaris (submarinesafaris.com) operate from the beautiful marina at Puerto Calero, which is peppered with designer shops if you want to stay ashore and splash the cash.

Outdoor adventure in Fuerteventura Wild, windy, and wonderful: Fuerteventura is perfect if your family like to get active in the great outdoors.

An Atlantic breeze makes the island of Fuerteventura a hotspot for every kind of surfer.

Of course, the beaches of Fuerteventura are not the sole

40 YEARS OF HOLIDAYS

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preserve of adrenaline seekers. Head to Corralejo to discover mile upon mile of fine, rolling dunes in the Parque Natural de las Dunas de Corralejo.

Masses of open space provide playgrounds for children to run around, roll down the dunes, and splash about in the alluring azure waters.

The Canarian jewel If the Canary Islands were to crown a beauty queen, Gran Canaria might just bag the title. The island is blessed with natural splendour and a diversity of landscapes not seen elsewhere in the archipelago.

From plantations that cling to mountainsides, to the undulating sea of sand dunes at Maspalomas, Gran Canaria offers beauties worthy of exploration during your holiday.

Have hours of fun in the sun in the Maspalomas dunes (Las Dunas de Maspalomas). Located in the south of this roughly-round island, the dunes roll away as far as the eye can see and provide ample space for adventure. Las Canteras, the city beach in Las Palmas, is a sheltered and pleasant spot in which to spend some time.

Nature lovers will adore Palmitos Park (palmitospark.es) in Maspalomas, where dolphins always steal the show.

Discover the fascinating history and heritage of the Guanche – the aboriginal people who lived on the islands before the Spanish. Visit Mundo Aborigen to see how the Guanche lived, while the gorgeous valley of Barranco de Guayadeque can be explored, wearing walking shoes, to view the caves the ancient peoples called home.

E X P LO R E CAIRNGORMS, SCOTLAND

A RAMBLE THROUGH THE

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS Discover rugged landscapes and modern-day comforts in the Cairngorms region.

BY DA R R E LL H A R TM A N

PHOTOS: 4CORNERS; VISIT SCOTLAND / SCOTTISH VIEWPOINT

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cotland’s most popular National Park, the Cairngorms, offers the fairy-tale allure the highlands are famed for – misty hilltops and grazing sheep – but without a single note of bagpipe kitsch. Cosy old inns have updated their menus and new tourist experiences contrast with traditional tours.

Adventure Rothiemurchus, an estate overseen by the same family for 500 years, offers adventurous outdoor activities in the majestic Caledonian landscape. Over 60 kilometres of nature trails, perfect for cycling or walking, wind through Scotland’s largest natural forest. Or take a Land Rover safari, watch diving ospreys or feed native red deer, before taking snapshots of ancient forts and indulging in the farm shop.

Many attempt to scale a Munro – the nickname for any of the 283 mountains

in Scotland taller than 914 metres – so aim big and attempt Ben Macdui, Scotland’s second tallest! The fit and healthy can conquer this in five hours if the wind isn’t too strong! Active Outdoor Pursuits offers full-day guided trips (adult £54) or comparable views with much less effort can be enjoyed from the Cairngorm Mountain Railway (day pass £10).

…take a Land Rover safari, watch diving ospreys or feed native red deer, before taking snapshots of ancient forts and indulging in the farm shop.

Victoria to buy Balmoral. Visit in July or August and not only embrace silken finery in the Castle itself, but tour around beautiful gardens by vintage tractor!

Sip and shop Cullen Skink, (haddock chowder) is a highlight at the Boat Hotel’s Bistro, near Aviemore (meal for two £50) or try Shetland salmon, from the lochs. In the Dalwhinnie factory, visitors learn how they make beverages from the rugged hills at the factory’s modest facility. But for hampers of goodies, cashmere blankets and tweed jackets, stop by the House of Bruar situated on the A9 just north of Pitlochry – an all-in-one Highland shopping haven – ensuring you return home in style.

For weaponry, weathered tartan and hunting trophies, explore Blair Castle (adult £10), the centuries-old Highland stronghold that inspired Queen

*Prices converted to pounds sterling and may have changed since publication.

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O N LO C AT I O N MALTA

A MALTESE MEMOIR A picture is worth a thousand words, but memories are priceless.

Lorraine Karabin of the RCI Publications team discovers the history, culture and charm of Malta in winter…

No clockwatching required Following a warm welcome from reception, within ten minutes we were on our balcony marvelling at the sea views. After the unpacking ritual, we took a leisurely stroll into Qawra Bay passing numerous shops, hotels and restaurants along the way.

Stopping for refreshments in a rather quaint little café with seating overlooking the beautiful bay allowed us a moment to relax, relieved to abandon the stress of daily 10 SPRING / SUMMER 2014 |

life and watch the world go by. No clockwatching required.

Insider Eats That evening we decided we would experience Qawra by night, venturing out for dinner and drinks. At Birmingham airport we were fortunate to receive some insider tips from a British expat.

He told us to visit Ruben’s Drive In (rubensdrivein.com) and try the steak.

We knew his tip must be a good one, with every table occupied by locals – always a good sign, so be sure to pre-book. From the prompt appearance of our ‘Seafood Sharer’ which was surprisingly large and would have been plenty for a main, to the succulent steak and salmon mains, we couldn’t have asked for better service or food.

Variety of Valletta We felt the need to explore our inner Phileas Fogg, so we hopped on a bus

40 YEARS OF HOLIDAYS

(Day ticket €2.60). Although they have decommissioned the iconic Maltese buses affectionately nicknamed ‘boneshakers’, it was still an experience to just stop off wherever we wanted.

And conveniently, that brought us into the city of Valletta where we were

Stopping for refreshments in a rather quaint little café with seating overlooking the beautiful bay allowed us a moment to relax, relieved to abandon the stress of daily life and watch the world go by. greeted by the Triton Fountain at the City Gate – a definite photo opportunity.

Valletta is a heady mix. Walking through the commercial area squeezed with shops and restaurants, we noted the glorious weekday weather

PHOTOS: ALAMY (2), VIEWING MALTA, LORRAINE KARABIN (4)

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o there we were planning our next winter holiday – like a blank canvas waiting to be painted. We agreed we wanted somewhere warm to explore, as well as to take in some culture, history and relax. After much deliberation we selected the Mediterranean gem that is Malta, a yearround holiday hotspot.

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drew many locals outdoors to bask in the sun while having lunch. Stop for refreshments in the square and admire the original Maltese sandstone architecture and brightly painted windows.

Harbour highlights Sauntering past the stores, and along Merchant’s Street, where stall holders sell their local wares, the street winds around to reveal the historically significant and visual gem that is the Grand Harbour.

An idyllic spot is the Siege Bell Memorial and bronze statue which were built to commemorate the award of the George Cross to Malta in 1992 and as a memorial to the 7,000 that died in the siege. A perfect moment to observe the quietness and reflect.

Continue along the Barriera Wharf and the road veers steeply upwards off to the right taking you through the

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Upper Barrakka Gardens. A word of warning, this has steep steps to climb so you may wish to take a 23-second journey in the Upper Barrakka Lift!

Alternatively take a Captain Morgan Harbour Cruise to explore (€16 adult, €13 child, captainmorgan.com.mt).

Boarding at Sliema, this is the perfect way to discover Malta’s past with a detailed commentary as you cruise around the Marsamxetto and Grand Harbours.

Safe to say after spending a week here, we didn’t want to come home. But at least we found a firm favourite with Malta and with lots still undiscovered, we are sure to visit again!

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Visit https://arrivalguides.RCI.com to download our guide to Malta and visit rciresortoffers.com for your exclusive resort offers.

MALT-TEASERS: (Main picture) Valletta skyline from Sliema, featuring St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral and Carmelite Church. 1. Triton Fountain at Valletta city gate. 2. Captain Morgan Harbour Cruise. 3. Lorraine on Merchant Street, Valletta. 4. Bronze Statue at Grand Harbour. 5. Maltese sandstone architecture. 6. Lorraine and Pete at Grand Harbour.

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YO U W E R E H E R E ITALIAN RIVIERA

REVERIES OF THE RIVIERA Fatma Salem from Cairo, Egypt has been an RCI member for 18 years. She shares her delights of visiting the Italian Riviera.

Expect colourful fishing villages, beautiful coastline and a splash of city living…

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atma Salem, owns at Albatros Resorts in Egypt and worked as a TV presenter for Egyptian National television, before retiring in 2010. She bought her timeshare and joined RCI as a fun and hassle-free way to holiday.

“I like to experience new destinations which offer history and culture, as well as beach locations, and the Italian Riviera has always been a dream destination for me,” said Fatma.

12 SPRING / SUMMER 2014 |

Coastal beauty Fatma, along with her two children and grandchildren, stayed at Portofino Est. Residence (1312) in Rapallo, which offers spectacular views, with fascinating towns and villages dotted along its beautiful coastline.

“We toured around many towns and villages on the Riviera, and they each had different vibes which surprised me.

The natural attractions are amazing, and the Ligurian culture just adds to its

40 YEARS OF HOLIDAYS

beauty — it surpassed my expectations from the pictures I had seen online.”

First up on your visit should be Santa Margherita Ligure, a ten-minute bus ride from Rapallo. Stop off to catch the ferry to Portofino but not before exploring the sights, including churches, tower houses and harbours.

Fairytales and Castles An Italian fishing village, Portofino is often called the jewel of the Riviera.

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DREAMING OF ITALY: (Main) Scenic view of Vernazza, one of the Cinque Terre, (inset) Fatma in Vernazza. RIVIERA ROUND UP: 1. The Salem family (l-r) Caroline, Mohammed, Fatma, Rania, Nesreen. 2. Portofino Est. Residence 3. Fatma with her son Mohammed at the Leaning Tower of Pisa. 4. Harbour of Santa Margherita Ligure. 5. Fatma enjoying the views of Monterosso al Mare

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RAPALLO

GENOA

MONTEROSSO AL MARE

SESTRI LEVANTE

SANTA MARGHERITA LIGURE VERNAZZA

CORNIGLIA

PHOTOS: THINKSTOCK, SUPERSTOCK, FATMA SALEM (4)

MANAROLA

Find fishing boats bobbing on the water, with small restaurants and cafés lining the waterfront. Wander beyond the harbour; up the sloping paths and you will be greeted by the castle — Castello Brown.

“The ferry sailing and the hike up to the castle in Portofino definitely stands out as a highlight of our holiday, the views were breath taking.”

Sestri Levante, a town which lies between Portofino and the Cinque Terre, was another highlight for Fatma.

“Sestri Levante has a totally different look than the other places we visited,” she said. “It lies inside the mountain so the bay looks like it has a cave inside it — it’s so unusual.”

The town has two bays, the Bay of Silence and the Bay of Fairy tales, named after Danish fairytale writer, Hans Christian Andersen, as he is

RIOMAGGIORE

reported to have visited during a storm in the 1800s.

The natural attractions are amazing, and the Ligurian culture just adds to its beauty…

Further down the coast, is The Cinque Terre or The Five Lands a UNESCO — World Heritage Site. Take the ferry to experience the visual delight of the colourful cluster of buildings coming into view.

“Out of the five villages — Manarola stands out for me. Its wild nature and the entrance to the village through a narrow opening in the rocks was a new experience!”

However a visit to any one of the five villages, Monterosso al Mare; Vernazza;

Corniglia; Manarola and Riomaggiore, is a real step back in time.

City Life After exploring the many villages of the Riviera, the Salem family opted for a slice of city life — Genoa is just a 30-minute drive by car from the resort, or an hour by bus.

“You can discover lots about Italian history in Genoa, and the city is also famous for its eclectic shopping at the boutiques, stalls and flea markets.

“We also managed to fit in a day trip to Pisa, so we could see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it was two hours from the resort but definitely worth the visit!”

After Fatma’s whirlwind trip of the Riviera, RCI had one question for her: what was the best part of her holiday?

“The whole time I was there!”

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Don’t let the sun set ON YOUR NEXT EXCHANGE HOLIDAY...

You have several options if your deposit expires soon

BOOK AN EXCHANGE HOLIDAY

EXTEND YOUR DEPOSIT

COMBINE YOUR DEPOSITS

View the Resort Directory or add an Ongoing Search if what you are looking for isn’t available.

Travel when it suits you by extending your deposit for either 3 or 6 months.

Access Exchange Holidays with a higher trading power when you combine (for a fee).

Finding the right holiday for you is the most important thing to us and if you do have a deposit due to expire we don’t want you to miss out!

Visit RCI.com and check the ‘Manage my deposits’ tab to see if your deposit is due to expire soon.

Fees apply when extending deposits or combining deposits - visit RCI.com for full fee listing.

FROM ONLY $489 PW*

Say ‘hello!’ to the world of RCI Extra Holidays...

You can book RCI Extra Holidays worldwide, all year round, without using your weeks or points.

Book instead with cash and experience the same spacious accomodation, benefits and facilities that you expect from an RCI Exchange Holiday.

GUTEN TAG!

BONJOUR!

CIAO!

Resort 1667

Resort R978

Resort 2576

Resort 4267

Resort 3573

Park & Suites Prestige Val d’Europe

Cela Canet Malibu Village

Carpediem Roma Golf Club

Carpediem Assisi Living Club

$489 pw

$1009 pw

$1479 pw

$859 pw

$799 pw

Jan - Dec

Jan - Dec

Jan - Dec

Jan - Dec

Jan - Dec

GERMANY

Gemuender Ferienpark Salzberg

FRANCE

ITALY

EASY PLANNING. EASY BOOKING. VISIT RCI.com OR CALL +971 (0)4 390 1680 (Arabic), +971 (0)4 390 1670 (English) or (02) 2417 8323 (Egypt residents only) No week deposit/exchange or points required. Extra Holidays are accommodation only and do not include travel or any other expenses. *From only price is based on Resort 1667, 1 bedrooms (for 4) for 7 nights starting 13.09.2014. Featured resort pricing: Resort 1667 - $489 based on 1 bedrooms (for 4) for 7 nights starting 13.09.2014; Resort R978 - $1009 based on studio (for 2) for 7 nights starting 04.10.2014; Resort 2576 - $1479 based on 1 bedroom (for 4) for 7 nights starting 26.07.2014. Resort 4267 - $859 based on 1 bedroom (for 4) for 7 nights starting 29.08.2014; Resort 3573 - $799 based on 1 bedroom (for 4) for 7 nights starting 28.06.2014. All prices are rounded to the nearest USD and are subject to change. Prices for resorts in North America are subject to local tax. Validity for all: Details correct at time of print (March 2014) but are subject to change and availability which may be limited during peak times and school holidays.All bookings are subject to availability and Terms of Membership, booking conditions apply We reserve the right to amend, withdraw or extend this offer without notice