Two Times the Fun in New Mexico TWO LITTLE KNOWN GEMS of the AMERICAN SOUTHWEST

A Magazine Exclusively for WorldMark Owners March 2008

Two Times the Fun in New Mexico TWO LITTLE KNOWN GEMS OF THE AMERICAN SOUTHWEST

• WORLDMARK OWNERS TO THE RESCUE AT RUNNING Y • THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE WORLDMARK BOARD Call Today 1-800-585-4833 Expand your horizons

Your RCI® Subscribing Membership is an exciting value added to your Worldmark® ownership.

Now, there are more places you can go than ever before—destinations around the world, from exotic tropical island beaches to snow covered mountain slopes. The choice is yours.

You’re in control, because you don’t need to deposit your WorldMark Vacation Credits until you conﬁ rm a vacation at one of the thousands of RCI afﬁ liated resorts worldwide. In addition, you have the option of booking an Extra VacationsSM getaway* or Last CallSM vacation** without using your credits.

Call today and explore all the inviting destinations available to you: 1-800-585-4833 Start planning your RCI vacation today.

Destinations and travel times are subject to availability and confi rmed on a fi rst come, fi rst served basis. Offer includes only accommodations and specifi cally excludes travel costs and other expenses that may be incurred. Taxes, additional fees and charges may apply. Mexican resorts may charge a mandatory all-inclusive fee. Promotional discounts and offers may not apply to all properties. Other restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited by law. *EXTRA VACATIONSSM: Prices are based on a seven-night stay. Additional fees, charges and taxes may apply. You won’t have to deposit a vacation week. These Extra VacationsSM getaways are limited and subject to availability. Additional restrictions may apply. **LAST CALLSM vacations are limited and subject to availability. These prices are only available online, and additional fees, charges and taxes may apply. Additional restrictions may apply. This inventory is made available by Resort Rental, LLC (operating as Holiday Rentals, LLC in MD and TX); an Indiana-licensed limited liability company, whose principal broker is John Lawrence Hertweck. Resort Rental, LLC and the logo are service marks used under license. All Rights Reserved. CST-2081369-50. Fla. Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST-36515. Nevada Seller of Travel Registration No. 2006-0006 Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602560941. Call 1-866-280-7723 for Web Site Terms and Conditions and Additional Disclosures or go to www.RCI.com. Resort Rental, LLC Address: 7 Sylvan Way, Parsippany, NJ 07054 © 2008 Resort Rental, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. contents MARCH 2008 MARK NOHL/NEW MEXICO TOURISM

features 12 The Taste of New Mexico WorldMark Red River and WorldMark Taos, hidden among the mountains and forests of northern New Mexico, are both relaxing and invigorating escapes. Th e perfect blend of culture and adventure, these resorts are the ideal places to escape for the traveler who loves to unwind and let loose. departments 4 FROM THE DESK OF… Senior Vice President Dave Herrick takes a look at how WorldMark by Wyndham ﬁ ts into Wyndham Worldwide and its entities.

6 YOUR CLUB Inventory Specials, Owner Education, service schedule, new hours in Owner Services, new name for travel department, notes from the WorldMark board

26 YOUR TRAVEL OFFERS

30 LASTING IMPRESSION ON OUR COVER: A pueblo in New Mexico is ablaze in the southwest sunshine. An owner comes to the rescue. WANKE STEVE Photograph by George Michael Warnock. from the desk of...

Senior Vice President, WorldMark by Wyndham, Hospitality Division Dave Herrick Editor in Chief Ruth Shively Senior Editor Kelly Hanlon Assistant Editor Katharine Davis WorldMark: A “World” Creative Director Bill Olivari Art Director Susan Myers-Feeney of Vacation Opportunities Designer Douglas Rickard Deay Production Jamie Olson By Dave Herrick Contributors: Stephanie Aardal, Kati Arrubla, Patricia SVP WorldMark by Wyndham Hospitality Division Bastone, Misty Beaupre Zoutte, Sylvia Betancourt, Maren Culter, Jeremy Ellis, Tami Fitch, Amy Godwin, Alyssa Moore, Reid Nichols, Heidi Rennick, Brian or many of you, WorldMark is your vacation preference for creating lasting mem- Runnels, Brittany Tracy ories and experiences for you and your family. WorldMark has been instrumental Reservations Department Fin helping owners commemorate events ranging from weddings, anniversaries 1-800-457-0103 and birthdays to returns from military assignments abroad and celebrations of life. Most Mon. – Fri., 6 am – 9 pm PT owners can point to at least one WorldMark vacation that stands out, knowing that more Sat. & Sun., 6 am – 5 pm PT cherished memories are waiting to be created. In fact, owners rate the December Photo Owner Services & Essay Contest edition of Destinations as one of the most highly anticipated issues of 1-888-648-7363 [email protected] the year. Your participation in this annual issue certainly is the key to its success. Mon. – Fri., 8 am – 6 pm PT WorldMark, The Club has seen exponential growth since its inception in 1989. While (Closed Tue., 2 – 3:30 pm PT) some owners remember the first two condominiums owned by the Club and the expecta- Sat. & Sun., 8 am – 5 pm PT tion they had for a lifetime of family vacations, others are new to the Club and are just WorldMark by Wyndham Travel now discovering the vacation opportunities that lie ahead. Back in 1989, no one could 1-800-953-5511 have predicted that the Club would include 65 resorts, spread over four different coun- Mon. – Fri., 8 am – 8 pm PT Sat., 9 am – 4 pm PT tries and encompass more than 5,500 units for owners to enjoy. We’ve come a long way. (Closed Wed., 2:30 – 4 pm PT) From time to time owners ask about the relationship between WorldMark and the

Loan Payments, Maintenance Dues, Finance developer, Wyndham Resort Development Corporation (WRDC), also known as 1-800-779-0760 WorldMark by Wyndham. We’ve created a simple chart below to help you understand the relationship of WorldMark, The Club to Wyndham. RCI® 1-800-585-4833

Interval International (II) Service line: 1-877-678-4400 Flexchange recording: 1-800-722-1747

Destinations Editor 8427 SouthPark Circle Orlando, FL 32819 (407) 370-5200 [email protected]

Visit the WorldMark Web site at www.worldmarktheclub.com

© 2008, WorldMark, The Club. All rights reserved. Vol. XVIII, No. 2, March 2008. Destinations is published monthly except January by WorldMark, 9805 Willows Road NE, Redmond, WA 98052. Destinations is an official WorldMark publication. Subscriptions are covered by dues * paid by owners of WorldMark. Non-owner subscription price of $11 per year, including state sales tax. Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #40870507. Postage paid at Vancouver, BC. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Owner Services, 9805 Willows Road NE, Redmond, WA 98052. Canada Post: Publication Mail Agreement No. 40870507, Postage Paid at Vancouver, BC. Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Destina- tions c/o Mailing Department, 3999 Henning Drive, suite 100, Burnaby, BC V5C 6P9. *WorldMark by Wyndham is the developer of the WorldMark program and provides management services to WorldMark, The Club.

4 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 WorldMark Seaside WorldMark Steamboat Springs

Wyndham Worldwide is the one of the world’s largest hospi- Mark, including all on-site resort management as well as services tality companies and spans six continents and comprises three provided through the WorldMark Vacation Planning Center. divisions: Wyndham Hotel Group, Wyndham Vacation Own- WorldMark, The Club is you, the owners, and the resorts ership and Group RCI. that you enjoy. WorldMark is an independent, not for profit, Wyndham Vacation Ownership, a member of the Wyndham mutual benefit corporation that holds the assets of the Club for Worldwide family, is the world’s largest vacation ownership the mutual benefit of all owners. business with resorts throughout North America, the Carib- WorldMark, The Club’s relationship to Wyndham is instru- bean and the South Pacific. It develops, sells and finances va- mental in providing owners with opportunities to use vacation cation ownership interest through its three brands: Wyndham credits as currency, such as using credits for cruises and other Vacation Resorts, WorldMark by Wyndham and Wyndham out of network options as well as exchanging into Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific. Vacation Resorts properties. It is this powerful relationship with WorldMark by Wyndham provides a wide range of vacation Wyndham that allows the Club to grow and to provide expand- options to our more than 250,000 owners. Its condominium ed vacation opportunities to WorldMark owners. resorts can be found in some of the most beautiful locations It is our hope that your WorldMark ownership will enhance on earth. WorldMark by Wyndham acquires and develops new the life of you and your family and provide a welcome respite resorts that are deeded to WorldMark, The Club debt-free, and from the daily grind. Encompassing 65 resorts at the end of also markets and sells WorldMark vacation ownerships. World- 2007 and welcoming new resorts in 2008, there’s sure to be a Mark by Wyndham provides management services to World- WorldMark resort awaiting your arrival.

WorldMark South Shore Tahoe WordlMark Oceanwalk – Daytona Beach

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 5 What’s New in Owner Ed Reservations are required. For By Amy Godwin/Senior Facilitator, Owner Education reservations and class locations, please call ant to know ALL the benefits entitled to you as a WorldMark Owner? 1-800-457-0103, WHow to get the best out of credits, bonus time and your other options? Mon–Fri, 6 a.m.–9 p.m.; Come to OWNER EDUCATION! The classes are fun, free and frequent! Sat–Sun, 6 a.m.–5 p.m. The Owner Education program is designed to help you fully comprehend Class times and locations all the different benefits you’re entitled to as a WorldMark owner. We now are also listed online at www.worldmarktheclub. offer three different classes: com/education. Amy Godwin ➤ The Basic Class is designed to educate all owners, whether new or expe- rienced, in the best ways to use WorldMark credits and Bonus Time for stays at WorldMark resorts. This is great for a first experience at Owner Education! ➤ The Exchange (E) Class is going beyond the basics. It’s designed to instruct owners on the use of WorldMark credits as payment for exchange vacations outside the WorldMark network. This covers exchanges through RCI — our primary exchange partner — as well as opportunities available through our new program, TravelShare. ➤ The Combination (C) Class condenses information from both classes to provide you with a full experience of WorldMark and exchanges in just one workshop.

OWNER EDUCATION CLASSES IN MARCH Wed, Mar 12, 6 p.m.-E Federal Way, Wash. Vancouver, Wash. Tracy, Calif. Sat, Mar 29, 10 a.m. Tue, Mar 4, 6 p.m. Wed, Mar 5, 6 p.m. Tue, Mar 4, 6 p.m.-C MOUNTAIN Tue, Mar 18, 6 p.m. Th u, Mar, 20, 6 p.m. Bear Lake, Utah St. George, Utah Sat, Mar 22, Noon Th u, Mar 27, 6 p.m.-E Walnut Creek, Calif. Th u, Mar 20, 7 p.m.-C Sat, Mar 15, 10 a.m. Wed, Mar 26, 6 p.m. Wed, Mar 5, 6 p.m.-E Sat, Mar 15, Noon-E Th u, Mar 27, 6 p.m.-E N. CALIFORNIA Sat, Mar 8, 10 a.m. Boise, Idaho Elk Grove, Calif. Sat, Mar 8, 2 p.m. Tue, Mar 11, 6 p.m. Wolf Creek, Utah Leavenworth, Wash. Tue, Mar 4, 6 p.m.-E Th u, Mar 13, 6 p.m. Sat, Mar 29, 10 a.m. Th u, Mar 6, 6 p.m. Th u, Mar 13, 6 p.m.-C Sat, Mar 15, 10 a.m. Sat, Mar 29, Noon-E Wed, Mar 19, 6 p.m. Sat, Mar 15, 2 p.m. Windsor, Calif. Wed, Mar 19, 8 p.m.-E Lewiston, Idaho Th u, Mar 20, 6 p.m. Wed, Mar 26, 5:30 p.m.-C Broomfield, Colo. Red Lion Hotel Tue, Mar 4, 6 p.m. NORTHWEST Call: 1-888-901-3376 Foster City, Calif. S. CALIFORNIA Tue, Mar 4, 8 p.m.-E Birch Bay, Wash. Sun, Mar 30, 6 p.m. Sat, Mar 8, 2 p.m.-C Anaheim, Calif. Tue, Mar 25, 6 p.m. Tue, Mar 11, 6 p.m. Sun, Mar 30, 8 p.m. Wed, Mar 5, 8 p.m. Sat, Mar 15, Noon Fresno, Calif. Tue, Mar 11, Noon Colorado Springs, Colo. Tue, Mar 25, 6 p.m.-E Olympia, Wash. Sat, Mar 22, 10 a.m. Th u, Mar 20, 8 p.m.-E Sat, Mar 15, 10 a.m. Red Winds Casino Sat, Mar 22, 2 p.m.-C Sat, Mar 15, Noon-E Bothell, Wash. Call: 1-888-901-3376 Bakersfield, Calif. Th u, Mar 27, 6 p.m. Wed, Mar 5, 6 p.m. Wed, Mar 12, 6 p.m. Modesto, Calif. Sat, Mar 15, Noon Tue, Mar 11, 6 p.m. Wed, Mar 12, 8 p.m. Th u, Mar 20, 6 p.m.-C Sat, Mar 15, 2:30 p.m.-E Englewood, Colo. Wed, Mar 19, 6 p.m. Tue, Mar 25, 6 p.m. Sat, Mar 1, 10 a.m. Tue, Mar 25, 6 p.m. Seaside, Ore. Reno, Nev. Sat, Mar 1, Noon-E Sat, Mar 29, Noon-E Sat, Mar 22, Noon-C Sun, Mar 16, 4 p.m.-C Indio, Calif. Wed, Mar 26, 6 p.m. Sun, Mar 2, 11 a.m.-C Burnaby, B.C. Silverdale, Wash. Roseville, Calif. Idaho Falls, Idaho Mandarin Oxford Suites Tue, Mar 11, 6 p.m. Las Vegas, Nev. Th u, Mar 6, 6 p.m. Mon, Mar 10, 6 p.m. Call: 1-888-901-3376 Wed, Mar 12, 6 p.m.-E Tropicana Ave Tue, Mar 18, 6 p.m. Mon, Mar 10, 8 p.m. Fri, Mar 28, 6 p.m. Sat, Mar 22, 10 a.m. Tue, Mar 4, 6 p.m.-C Wed, Mar 19, 6 p.m.-E Fri, Mar 28, 8 p.m. Sat, Mar 22, 2 p.m. Las Vegas Blvd Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Th u, Mar 20, 5:30 p.m. Rancho Vistoso, Ariz. Sat, Mar 29, Noon Tricities, Wash. San Jose, Calif. Sat, Mar 1, 10 a.m. Tue, Mar 4, 6 p.m.-C Sat, Mar 1, 10 a.m.-C Oceanside, Calif. Sat, Mar 1, Noon-E Discovery Bay, Wash. Sat, Mar 1, 2 p.m. Wed, Mar 5, 6 p.m. Tue, Mar 25, 6 p.m. Sat, Mar 8, Noon-C Vancouver, Wash. Th u, Mar 6, 6 p.m.-C Tue, Mar 25, 8 p.m.-E Owner Party Tue, Mar 11, 6 p.m.-E Riverside, Calif. Depoe Bay, Ore. Call: 1-888-901-3376 Wed, Mar 19, 6 p.m. Sat, Mar 1, Noon South Jordan, Utah Sat, Mar 8, Noon-C Th u, Mar 6, 6 p.m. Th u, Mar 27, 6 p.m.-C Sat, Mar 1, 2 p.m.-E Tue, Mar 4, 6 p.m. Th u, Mar 6, 8 p.m. Wed, Mar 26, 6 p.m. Tue, Mar 11, 6 p.m.

6 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 San Diego, Calif. Tue, Mar 4, 6 p.m. Winner! Sat, Mar 15, 10 a.m. STEVE CANAVAN of Redding, Calif., won a three- Sat, Mar 15, Noon-E Tue, Mar 25, 6 p.m. night WorldMark stay when we selected his completed resort survey in our January drawing. San Dimas, Calif. Th u, Mar 6, 6 p.m. Be on the lookout for your electronic resort Sat, Mar 22, Noon survey after each vacation at a WorldMark resort Sat, Mar 22, 2 p.m.-E — you could be our next winner. Torrance, Calif. Sat, Mar 8, Noon Sat, Mar 8, 2:30 p.m.-E Wed, Mar 19, 7 p.m. Th u, Mar 27, 7 p.m.

Westlake Village, Calif. Sat, Mar 1, Noon Sat, Mar 1, 2:30 p.m.-E Wed, Mar 12, 6 p.m. Wed, Mar 26, 6 p.m.

MIDSOUTH Albuquerque, N.M. Tue, Mar 4, 6 p.m. Wed, Mar 5, 6 p.m.-E Sat, Mar 22, Noon

Austin, Texas Th u, Mar 6, 6 p.m. Sat, Mar 8, 10 a.m. Sat, Mar 8, 2 p.m.-E Pack Some Branson, Mo. Sun, Mar 30, 8:30 a.m.-C Peace of Mind!

Galena, Ill. TBA

Lake of the Ozarks, Mo. TBA

Overland Park, Kan. Sat, Mar 15, Noon Wed, Mar 26, 6 p.m. Th u, Mar 27, 6 p.m.-E Feel secure with up to Tulsa, Okla. $25,000 in emergency Sat, Mar 1, 10 a.m. evacuation coverage* Sat, Mar 1, 2 p.m.-E Tue, Mar 11, 6 p.m.

Service Schedule www.WorldMarkTravelSecure.com Th e entire WorldMark Vacation Planning Center (Exchange, or call 1-800-956-6922 Owner Services, Travel and Reservations) will be closed from 2- 4 p.m. on Tuesday, March 18, for the staﬀ ’s quarterly meeting. *Terms & conditions apply.

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 7 %NTERFORACHANCETO A DAY NIGHT 7). 'RECIAN'ETAWAY

Grand Prize package includes: s 4WOROUNDTRIPAIRFARESTO'REECE s NIGHTSHOTELACCOMMODATIONS s )SLANDHOPPINGCRUISETO!EGINA 0OROS AND(YDRA s &ERRYTOHOTELSTAYSIN3ANTORINIAND0IRAEUS s %STIMATEDRETAILVALUEOFUPTO 53 Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received. See Ofﬁcial Rules on the following page.

2EFERYOURQUALIlEDFRIENDSTO7ORLD-ARK®BY7YNDHAMANDYOULL Call 1-877-77-FRIEND BEENTEREDINTHE&RIENDS&IRST'RECIAN'ETAWAY3WEEPSTAKES (1-877-773-7436) )FYOUWIN YOUANDAFRIENDCOULDBEOFFTO'REECETOISLANDHOP AROUNDSOMEOFTHEMOSTBREATHTAKINGWATERSINTHEWORLD%XPLORE or send your referrals via e-mail to !THENSBYGUIDEDTOUR3AILTHESHORESOFTHE0ELOPONNISOS%XPLORE friendsﬁ[email protected] THE4EMPLEOF!FEA!THENA%ACHQUALIlEDREFERRALYOUMAKEIS ANOTHERENTRYFORACHANCETOWINTHISAMAZINGTRIP-AKEYOUR

gSJFOET ¯ REFERRALSTODAY cz!XpsmeNbsl gJSTU Hurry! Sweepstakes end March 31, 2008. your club A New Name for Travel

Exciting News for Owners he Trendwest Travel department has changed its name to eginning this month, the Owner Services department TWorldMark by Wyndham Travel. You can see additional op- Bwill be open for calls on weekends. Th ese new hours have portunities on pages 26-29 of every Destinations magazine. If you been added to better service you and provide an enhanced have any questions about additional travel offers, contact World- vacation experience. Th e new weekend hours are Sat. – Sun., Mark by Wyndham Travel at 1-800-953-5511. They are open Mon. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. PT. As a reminder, weekday hours are Mon. – Fri., 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. PT and Sat., 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. PT. – Fri., 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. PT.

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INVENTORY Low-cost Last-minute Adventures HERE ARE YOUR APRIL AND MAY SPECIALS: Deals for Spring April – Midweek Only Estes Park, Colo. Wolf Creek, Utah ost travelers begin thinking about vacation in the springtime. But isn’t spring also the perfect time to take that last minute getaway? With April – Midweek M and Weekends Inventory Specials, you can book those last minute stays for pocket change! Canmore-Banff, Alberta SPECIALS Instead of sitting empty, selected unreserved WorldMark units can be booked Galena, Ill. for just 4.6 cents per credit ($30 per-night minimum), up to 60 days in Indio, Calif. WHAT’S THE COST? New Orleans, La. advance. Low cost, a longer booking window and great destinations — it all You can find a resort’s adds up to a terriﬁ c, super-cheap way to get away. May – Midweek Only credit values in Angels Camp, Calif. How inexpensive is it? WorldMark Canmore-Banﬀ , nestled in the Bow your Daily Vacation Klamath Falls, Ore. Credit Values book- Valley in Alberta, Canada, is in White Season for most of April and May. Whistler, B.C. let or through the A two-bedroom unit, Monday through Th ursday, is only $50.60 per night Wolf Creek, Utah Resort Gallery on the (1100 x .046 = $50.60 per night). May – Midweek WorldMark Web site at and Weekends www.worldmarktheclub. Canmore-Banff, Alberta com. The resort gallery Bear Lake, Utah link is on the home Big Bear, Calif. page, left column. Bison Ranch, Ariz. Branson, Mo. Simply multiply the Estes Park, Colo. resort’s credit values Galena, Ill. by .046 to find out Grand Lake, Okla. its midweek and week- Indio, Calif. end rates. The mini- Lake of the Ozarks, Mo. mum rate charge is McCall, Idaho $30 per night. New Orleans, La. Pinetop, Ariz. HOW TO BOOK Steamboat Springs, Colo. To make reservations and for more information, call the Vacation Planning Center at 1-800-457-0103. Availability changes constantly! Keep abreast of the latest Inventory Specials in this monthly magazine (excluding January) or go to www.worldmark theclub.com.

Exclusions are May 22-25. These may vary at certain resorts;

check with DAN STEARNS(2) your vacation planning counselor. Canmore-Banff, Alberta, Canada

10 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 your club

Privacy Notes from the WorldMark Board Policy n December 14, 2007, the WorldMark ncluded in this issue of OBoard of Directors gathered for its reg- IDestinations is an insert ular quarterly meeting. with a copy of the comp- • Gene Hensley reviewed the election re- any’s “Policy Regarding sults and welcomed new director Bob Mor- Your Financial Privacy”. This rison to the board. document is to notify own- • Th e board discussed the variance in Bonus ers of the option to instruct Time revenue and noted that it is primarily WorldMark by Wyndham due to the reduction in the number of inven- not to share personal infor- tory specials and the longer booking window mation with our affi liated to reserve partial weeks in Red Season. It was family of companies and/or reported that fewer Vacation Credits expired nonaffi liated third parties. It in 2007 compared to 2006, indicating own- WorldMark Marina Dunes is your right to choose not to ers are better utilizing their credits. share your information and • Th e board discussed the Advisory Com- necessary entitlements subject to fi nal board you can do so by completing mittee’s report which identifi ed specifi c top- approval if the entitlements are received. and returning the form to ics they perceive to be of interest to owners • The board discussed a proposal to the address specifi ed. If you and recommended the board consider fur- expand the Las Vegas Boulevard sales offi ce have already completed this ther. Th ese topics include IT systems, com- by constructing a 950-square foot addition form in the past, you do not munication, Owner Education, the election to the existing offi ce in an area that would have to do so again, unless process and online communication. The not adversely impact owner use of the facil- you want to change prefer- board provided direction to management to ity. All costs of construction would be paid ences previously submitted. proceed with the Advisory Committee. by WorldMark Resort Development Cor- • Th e board agreed to engage outside poration (WRDC). Th e board agreed that Using the Form council to complete a full review of the elec- WRDC may prepare architectural drawings Please check the fi rst box tion procedures, including the procedure for for presentation to the board, and agreed that to decline having your per- placing proposals on the ballot. Th e election a committee of board members must approve sonal information shared process will be further discussed at an up- the architectural drawings before construc- with nonaffi liated third coming board meeting. tion may begin. parties. Check the second • Th e 2008 WorldMark Board of Direc- • Th e board discussed a proposal to con- box to decline having your tors meetings were scheduled for: Tues., struct an enclosure to one of the elevator personal information shared March 11 at 2 p.m.; Th urs., June 26 at lobbies at the Las Vegas Boulevard resort. within our affi liated family 2 p.m.; Th urs., Sept.11, at 2 p.m.; and WRDC has requested this work be done of companies. Check both Th urs., Dec. 11 at 2 p.m. and has off ered to pay for the enclosure. boxes to decline having your • Th e board reviewed a proposal from the Th is enclosure would not only benefi t the personal information shared new owner of the hotel that shares facilities WRDC Sales operation, as this elevator lob- with nonaffi liated third par- with WorldMark Marina Dunes. Th e pro- by is where the sales tours vacate the build- ties and within our affi liated posal to expand the lobby building and build ing, but it would benefi t WorldMark own- family of companies. additional hotel units would benefi t World- ers who occupy this building while on vaca- For more information Mark by providing additional operating tion as well. All costs of construction would about your fi nancial privacy, space for an on-site laundry facility and sepa- be paid by WRDC. Th e board agreed that a please visit the Federal rate lobby entrance. Th e board authorized committee of board members must approve Trade Commission Web site management to take actions reasonably nec- the architectural drawings before construc- at www.ftc.gov. essary to allow the hotel owner to pursue the tion may begin.

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 11 Focus on WorldMark Red River & WorldMark Taos Adventure A Taste of

SET AT THE BASE OF THE SANGRE DE CRISTO MOUNTAINS,

TAOS AND RED RIVER ARE THE LITTLE-KNOWN GEMS OF

NORTHERN NEW MEXICO’S CULTURAL WONDERLAND. BY KELLY MUÑIZ STEVE WANKE

12 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 STEVE WANKE STEVE WANKE

Dried chili peppers in Taos Jacuzzi at WM Red River DUNCAN WALKER/iSTOCK SEBASTIEN BUREL/SHUTTERSTOCK

The flag of New Mexico Southwestern Architecture MARC ROMANELLI/GETTY was born on the prairies where the wind blew free and there was nothing to break the light of the sun. I was born where there were no enclosures.” So says legendary Apache warrior Geron- imo, and as my journey begins amid New Mexico’s rolling hills and high desert, I can’t help but agree. Nestled among the ame- Ithyst mountains and sprawling forests of northern New Mexico, an idyllic escape that’s both relaxing and invigorating awaits at WorldMark Taos and WorldMark Red River. Driving from Albuquerque Interna- Sangre De Cristo mountains tional Airport, the ﬁ rst thing I notice

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 13 Focus on WorldMark Red River & WorldMark Taos STEVE WANKE STEVE

Woodcarvings in Red River

is the unmistakable aroma of the Southwest — an intoxi- that runs through the center of town, El Taoseño Restau- cating blend of piñon, juniper, aspen and sage wafts all rant and Lounge is an adobe-style building adorned with around me. As I make my way toward the warm hospital- brown paper bag luminaries, giving the charming eatery a ity of ski resort WorldMark Red River, I pass dozens of warm and inviting glow. As I push open the door, I notice Native American Pueblos, marveling at the natives’ ancient a sign that reads “El Taoseño Restaurant and Lounge: It’s engineering. I pause in Santa Fe, where I can either take where the locals eat.” Inside, the restaurant is bustling with the mountainous and scenic High Road or travel the faster activity. Families dressed in après ski attire are laughing and Low Road that hugs the Rio Grande. I’ve had a long day of talking about their day on the slopes. A couple of off -duty air travel already, but I didn’t come all this way to miss out police offi cers sip hot chocolate at the bar. A waitress passes on dramatic mountain landscapes, so I hit the High Road, me with a sizzling plate of fajitas and fl ashes me a grin. “Sit US-285 N, and ride off into the sunset. anywhere you like, sweetie!” I smile back, giving her a nod As I make my way closer to the resort, I witness the and head for a cozy table in the corner of the room. high desert’s dazzling display. Th e sun sinks lower into the Th e menu is expansive, off ering fare that ranges from horizon, sending brilliant gold zigzags across the cloud- hamburgers, sandwiches and steaks, to Mexican favorites fi lled sky. North of Santa Fe, near Española, I can see the like tamales, enchiladas and chile rellenos. Everything looks fi ery sky refl ecting back in the snow-covered ground, dust- so delicious that I can’t decide, so I opt for a combination

KELLY MUÑIZ ing the landscape in a dreamy plate. When the waitress asks me if I’d like red or green wash of pinks and golds. chile sauce, she notices my indecision and oﬀ ers to make it “Christmas” — a combination of both. Rosa, my waitress, Small Town Hospitality then asks if I’d like a tortilla or sopaipilla. “What’s a so- After a few hours of breath- paipilla?” I query. Sopapaillas are pieces of dough that are taking desert scenery, I realize deep-fried until lightly crispy, with an air pocket formed that I’ve approached the higher inside, creating a ﬂ aky pastry with a sweet and delicate elevations of Taos, where I stop crunch. Rosa advises me that if I haven’t had one before, for dinner. Situated on Paseo I’ve got to try it. Sopaipillas are served in nearly every del Pueblo Sur, the main road restaurant in New Mexico, and almost always with honey.

14 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 WorldMark Red River STEVE WANKE(6)

WorldMark Red River is an authentic skiers’ paradise.

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 15 Focus on WorldMark Red River & WorldMark Taos STEVE WANKE

A snowy scene is a welcoming sight for WorldMark Red River visitors.

As I wait for my food to arrive, I ask Rosa about the lu- would light small bonﬁ res along the roads to guide disciples minaries and ask her if they are a tradition around here, as to Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Today, you can buy I’ve seen them on several buildings around town. “Oh yes!” commercially produced versions of the luminaries made with she says. “Th ey’re called Farolitos. Around Christmas time, plastic bags and strings of electric lights. “But I prefer the old we make them in the morning and put them on the roof at fashioned ones. I light these each night myself,” she says. night.” Rosa goes on to explain that the tradition was origi- When my meal arrives, I’m pleased to learn that New nated by Franciscan monks in Mexico. Originally, monks Mexican dishes are prepared with less emphasis on sour

KELLY MUÑIZ cream and cheese, allowing the herbs in marinated meats to take center stage. Although it’s located in a central spot in town, El Taoseño is a hidden gem known to many locals indeed and their cuisine doesn’t disappoint. Fresh herbs and vegetables combine with tangy sauces to create a warming meal that would please any palate.

Rustic Elegance With a contented belly full of delicious food, I hop back in the car and head north to check in at WorldMark Red River. Set at the southernmost tip of the Rocky Moun- tains, Red River is a small ski town with an altitude of 8,750 feet. Once known as a booming mining camp in the 1870s, the town has grown into an idyllic mountain retreat. Surrounded by Carson National Forest in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Red River has retained many of the The ski-in, ski-out area behind WorldMark Red River. alpine-wood buildings of its rustic past. Th e atmosphere

16 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 Owner Profile in town is relaxed, off ering a slower pace and endless op- Cris and Alana O’Bryon KELLY MUÑIZ portunities for outdoor adventure. Residence: San Diego, WorldMark Red River is located at the base of the California mountain and is WorldMark’s fi rst ski-in/ski-out resorts Professions: Musical Director in New Mexico. Th e resort is conveniently located just 30 (Cris) and Commercial Producer feet from the nearest ski lift and only three blocks from Red (Alana) River Ski and Snowboard Area’s main entrance. With just WorldMark owners since: 2005 21 units, the resort refl ects the comfortable and intimate Reason for vacation: Time feel of the little ski town of Red River. Units are equipped together to enjoy ski season with kitchenettes and include a microwave, full-size stove, WorldMark Resorts Visited: Too many to list them all full-size refrigerator, pots and pans, coff ee maker, wash- Where to next: Parents are headed to Yosemite ing machine and front-load dryer, gas fi replace, cable TV with DVD player and a stereo system. Th e resort also has hen asked which resorts they’ve visited so far, Cris begins to a hot tub that’s open year-round, and the staff can provide W list locations in rapid succession. “Let me see…Whistler, Red information on activities like ski lift tickets, rental ski and River, Las Vegas, Lake of the Ozarks, Big Bear, Oceanside…there are so snowboard equipment, snowmobile and snowshoe tours, many!” He mentions that their ownership helps them stay closer to their horseback riding, biking, hiking, fi shing and golf. family and to each other. “We’re glad it makes us travel,” he says. Assistant Resort Manager Michelle has only been with Alana saw how much her sister and brother-in-law, who are World- WorldMark since December, but she has already fallen in Mark owners, loved ownership, so she and Cris were inspired to be- love with the resort. One of her seasoned staff members, come owners, too. “I’m originally from Calgary, Canada, and Cris is Deidre, originally hails from Corrales, N.M., but has lived from Maryland so our families are pretty far from San Diego.” Alana and worked in the Red River area for two and a half years. explains how she and Cris often pool their points with their family and She joined WorldMark in October, when the resort opened use them to vacation together. its doors. “From the two diff erent seasons I’ve been here, “We didn’t want the travel to go see family to only be between each most people seem to love the vast array of things there are others’ houses,” says Cris. Now, they share small weekend trips and to do. In the summer you can go hiking, fi shing, camping, larger vacations of all kinds with their loved ones, which is how Cris and horseback rides, golf, you name it,” she says. Alana have been able to see so many different resorts since 2003. Deidre goes on to tell me about the Cowboy Evenings “We were all just in Whistler together over Christmas. The snow available every Tuesday, Th ursday and Saturday night in looked like cotton balls. It was amazing,” says Cris. “The day after we the summer. You can experience authentic Old West hos- got to the resort, we had seven feet of snowfall. It was so perfect.” Af- pitality with a Dutch oven-cooked chuck wagon meal, ter a picture-perfect white Christmas at WorldMark Whistler with their horseback rides high into the mountains, and live enter- family, Cris and Alana wanted to spend more time on the slopes and tainment from some of today’s fi nest poets, singers and Red River’s ski-in, ski-out access made this their fi rst choice. “Red Riv- guitarists in the West. “And then in the winter the town er’s small town feel is wonderful, everyone here is so friendly. The ski- just turns into this miraculous ski town, where you can in, ski-out was why we picked this (location) over other properties,” he fi nd any kind of winter activity you can think of,” she says. says. “The hot tub was hot,” interjects Alana. “Yay!” Cris smiles at her In winter, Roadrunner Tours provides a horse-drawn sleigh warmly before saying, “It’s been fantastic.” ride through Sangre de Cristo mountain area in Carson National Forest. After sleighing through a winter wonder- out to the unit’s private back deck. I had arrived in the land, you’ll arrive at a sheepherder’s tent, where you’ll en- dark, so I hadn’t yet taken in the incredible scenery liter- joy dinner cooked over an open camp fi re. Deidre can see ally just outside the door. Gleaming white snow surrounds that I’m impressed with the range of adventures available me and an intermediate slope ends just feet from where from season to season and she grins. “Th at’s my favorite I’m standing. I shiver, realizing that I’ve stood awestruck part about this place,” she says. “We’re known for being a at the threshold of the sliding glass door. Wrapping my ski town, but there’s a big diff erence between the seasons.” scarf around my neck, I step out into the full sunshine that Red River is beginning to put me under its spell. New Mexico is so famous for and take in the full view. Th e mountain is just across a small stream that is frozen on its Majestic Mountains sides and bubbling at a steady clip through the middle. I Th e next morning, I awake from a thoroughly refreshing can see why this is a nature lover’s paradise. Just to the left sleep in my unit’s plush king-sized bed. As I fl ip through of my deck, skiers advance down the towering slope to the the coupons and discounts on ski equipment and massage lift, crossing a small bridge that spans the stream. services that Deidre gave me, I decide to take my coff ee Th e skies are a beautiful cornfl ower blue and the snow

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 17 Focus on WorldMark Red River & WorldMark Taos

itself is soft and delicate powder. Helped along by nightly me. Th e menu ranges from standard breakfast fare, to mo- snowmaking, Red River Ski Area enjoys an average yearly torcycle themed chef’s specials, to New Mexican favorites snowfall of 18 feet of lighter-than-air fl uff . I’ve never been like huevos rancheros ($6.95). Breakfast is served from skiing before and looking up at the steep mountain, I’m a 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Th e service is friendly and laid back and bit nervous but also exhilarated. Th ankfully, this is one of the food is out of this world, providing a range of spiciness the best mountains in the West for beginning skiers and and fl avor for any palate. My server is Joey Donaldson, a the ski area off ers private lessons. I decide it’s time I get local who has lived and worked in the area seasonally for some breakfast before heading off to the slopes. fi ve years. I ask him about the history of the town and to My next stop is the Olde Tymer’s Café, located at 210 fi ll me in on the locals’ favorite spots. Joey tells me that E. Main Street. Known as a favorite spot for breakfast by with such a small community of people who live here all the locals, the restaurant is a fun little diner with a motor- the time, everyone knows each other. Th ere’s defi nitely cycle motif and delicious food at great prices. Just outside a community spirit. Locals gather on holidays, hopping the café it looks like a full-sized Harley has been shrunk between several places in town for feasting and general down to about two feet tall. Th e chrome sparkles in the merriment, and every Sunday morning Th e Mother Lode sun, buried halfway in the snow. A sign on the doors reads, Saloon provides an amazing buff et spread where locals and “Bikers always welcome” and inside, knotted pine walls out-of-towners alike are invited to watch Sunday morning fi lled with Harley-Davidson memorabilia wrap around football and socialize. “You can get anything you want at this buff et,” Joey explains. “Lobster tails, omelets prepared Owner Profile however you like, coff ee, steak. It’s amazing!”

KELLY MUÑIZ When I ask him about the Olde Tymer’s Café, Joey tells Steven Finnigan me that the owners are locals who worked at the diner for Residence: Colorado Springs, years before the original owner passed away. Th ey decided Colorado that after 20-plus years they had to continue the legacy, so Profession: Aviation mechanic they pooled their money and bought the place. He gestures WorldMark owners since: 2003 at a beautiful wood-carved mural depicting tall mountains Reason for vacation: Time with family and rays of sunshine that graces the wall behind me. “Th at WorldMark Resorts Visited: was made by the original owner. We thought about chang- Bison Ranch, Pine Top, Galena, ing the décor in here but when the rest of the town liked Estes Park, Orlando, Red River, it the way it is, we decided against it,” he says. “Everyone Steamboat Springs in town is a part of this place and I think that’s why the Where to next: Galena, again tourists seem to love it so much.” I nod in agreement. You get the sense that Red River is one big family. teven explains that he used to be an E-7 Sergeant First Class in the After breakfast, I enter Sitzmark Ski Shop with a bounce SArmy’s Special Forces, but that he’s now retired. These days, he in my step. It’s still early but the shop is alive with activity works as an aviation mechanic for Colorado-based company L3 Com- as I step up to the counter. I explain that I’m brand new to munications. “My brother is a retired racecar driver,” he adds, beam- the sport of skiing and that I’m not even sure what equip- ing with pride. It’s obvious that Steven is a man of adventure, so it ment I need to rent. Th e clerk smiles and assures me that makes perfect sense when he mentions that he’s been to too many they have everything I need for a great fi rst day on the WorldMark resorts to list them all. slopes, and just like Deidre told me, he gives me a discount “It’s a fantastic way to keep in touch with my old Army buddies and when I mention that I’m staying at WorldMark Red River. some friends from my church,” he says. Because his friends are also As I’m being fi tted for my skis, he asks me how I’m enjoy- owners, they often use their points to see one another and stay in ing his town. Everyone in Red River seems to share this touch over their vacations. It’s easy to see the beauty of gathering to- hometown pride. When I tell him how much fun I’m hav- gether in a spacious resort when considering Steven has a total of 15 ing chatting with the locals and how beautiful my room is children and grandchildren. In fact, during this trip, Steven is traveling at the resort, I’m delighted to fi nd that he’s a WorldMark with fi ve of those children and four of his grandchildren. owner, himself. “We’re everywhere!” he grins. “It’s so relaxing to know you don’t have to worry about anything,” Steven says. “Two weeks from now, my youngest son and his wife are Like Magic from the Sky going to Galena. You can go almost anywhere you want to with no After changing into my gear, I head three blocks away hassles. Wherever you go, you know the rooms will be clean and you’ll from the resort to the Red River Ski Area’s main entrance, save a bunch of money — you can’t beat it!” where I get my lift ticket. My private lesson begins in 15 minutes, so I wait for my instructor at our designated

18 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 Eske’s Brewpub owners Sundance Mexican Restaurant Steve and Wanda Eskeback owner Linda Hoag

Dirk at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory KELLY MUÑIZ (5) Kicking back at Old Tymer’s Café server The Timbers Restaurant Joey Donaldson

ith a convenient kitchen, you could cook all your meals in your room, but you’d be Eclectic Eateries W missing out. Red River and Taos have a wide array of restaurants that are both delicious and unique. Here’s a small taste of not-to-be-missed spots: • THE TIMBERS RESTAURANT is a casual restaurant offering upscale fare at reasonable prices. While there, be sure to try the savory baked brie appetizer, famous mashed sweet potatoes and an inventive salad with homemade ranch dressing. 402 W. Main St., Red River, NM. (505) 754-6242. • SUNDANCE MEXICAN RESTAURANT is known locally as “the spot” to get authentic Mexican cuisine. Be sure to ask about the art on the walls, painted by local artists, as you enjoy your meal beside the dining room’s adobe ﬁ replace. 401 High St., Red River, NM. (505)754-2971. • ESKE’S BREWPUB has the perfect pint to complement any of the all-organic, home-cooked meals that are positively mouth-water-

ing. Be sure to try the chile beer or the winter seasonal cheer beer for a truly unique gastronomic experience. 106 Des Georges Ln., DAN MONAGHAN/NEW MEXICO TOURISM Taos, NM. (505) 758-1517. • ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY has a fudge for every taste, and each one is carefully crafted right here in Red River. Choose from amaretto swirl, raspberry dark chocolate, peanut butter and even vanilla fudge. 407 W. Main St., Red River, NM. (505) 754-6697. • OLDE TYMER’S CAFÉ is a local diner offering ﬂ avorful New Mexican meals at fantastic prices. Stop in for breakfast and try the huevos rancheros smothered in red and green chile sauce. 210 E. Main St., Red River, NM. (505) 754-2951.

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 19 Focus on WorldMark Red River & WorldMark Taos

painting that hangs above the stairs and acts as the lobby’s cen- Th e House of Taos terpiece. But the attention to detail doesn’t stop there. For visitors interested in a leisurely day spent at the resort, there’s an out- aos, like Red River, is a New Mexican treasure. Located less door spa and a seasonal pool. Even the youngest visitors haven’t Tthan 40 miles from each other, the two cities share the shad- been overlooked — there’s a children’s wading pool on property. ow of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the same small-town Add to that a fi tness room, game room, guest laundry room and charm. But whereas Red River is an adventurer’s paradise, Taos is elevators, and you’ve got an enormously relaxing and convenient an artists’ community, and is outfi tted accordingly with more than retreat. Each hotel-sized unit also comes equipped with a mini- 80 galleries and six museums. The town’s creativity and charisma kitchen with a microwave and small refrigerator, cable TV and are made even more engaging by WorldMark Taos, your newest contains a DVD player, stereo and air-conditioning. But the best WorldMark resort. What started as the home and property of Nico- aspect of WorldMark Taos is that it offers the perfect sampling of lai Fechin is now the location of the new resort, with his residence the world and culture that lie outside its walls. That world includes serving as home to the Taos Art Museum. Fechin, a local artist (by the Taos Pueblo, a Native American community that has thrived for way of Russia) known for landscapes and Native American art, built more than 1,000 years and features shops, galleries and adobe the house in 1927 and fi lled it with his own work. Today Fechin’s homes, and the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, a bridge suspended 650 home acts as a greeting to WorldMark Taos, which mirrors his feet above the Rio Grande where visitors can take in the phenom- artistic initiative and has committed to preserving his legacy by enal views and watch as kayakers and river rafters pass below. accenting the resort with his woodcarving style. Antique carved Finally, there are plenty of outdoor activities available — this is coffee and end tables fi ll the common areas as well as other artis- New Mexico after all — like mountain biking, horseback riding, ski- tic works ensure that you’ll fi nd WorldMark Taos to be truly one- ing and hang gliding. So whether you visit for the art, the history of-a-kind. Most notable is the striking prehistoric-style wildlife oil or the adventure, you’ll fall in love with Taos. — Katharine Davis CRAIG AURNESS/CORBIS

20 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 MARK NOHL/NEW MEXICO TOURISM STEVE WANKE KELLY MUÑIZ STEVE WANKE STEVE JAMES STEIDL

Taos is a combination of New Mexican art and culture. meeting spot and watch some children make a snowman if you want to go up there,” he says, obviously amused near the lodge. A gust of wind picks up, showering us in at my bravado. “One thing to remember about skiing: it a dusting of fl uff y snow and everyone laughs when a little always looks like an easier slope from the bottom.” But of girl squeals with delight, “It’s snowing!” A friendly man in course, I have to go up there. an instructor’s red, white and blue jacket skis over, notic- As I ride the lift higher into the mountain, I feel excited ing my look of wonder as I gaze up at the dazzling white and full of daring. I ski to the front of the line for the sec- snow blanketing the mountain. “Cool, huh?” he says. He ond lift and then stop in place, climbing on to the bench introduces himself as Mike, my instructor. I explain to him with two teenaged snowboarders. My cheeks are rosy and that even though I’ve seen snow before and have even lived warm and I bang my skis together, watching with delight in snowy places, so it always seems to retain its magical as snow falls to the treetops below me. Th e lift carries us quality for me. He laughs at me and I stick out my tongue higher up the mountain and I ask, “Do you guys know of before we head over to the bunny slope, where my lesson any bunny hills farther up?” “Oh yeah,” one of them says. begins. Mike is patient with me as he explains the funda- “Th at one just over there is super easy. No sweat.” I thank mentals of how to get in and out of my skis. He shows me them and whoosh off the lift towards the trail. how to angle my feet to stop or go faster and when I get It starts off very fl at, much like the beginners’ hill at the everything on the fi rst try, he tells me he can’t believe this base of the mountain. I ski along like a pro, pulling my skis is my fi rst time on the slopes. Even though the bunny hill in closer together to pick up more speed. Suddenly, I notice is barely an incline at all, I manage to pick up some speed, how high I am. Th e view is so beautiful up here and I can whooshing down the hill with fl ushed cheeks. I feel giddy see the beginners’ area where I started out — the people look and I think I’ve found my new favorite sport. And so, as like ants. I also notice the side of the trail has a sharp drop off our lesson comes to an end, I feel ready for something a the side. Th ere’s no railing, nothing to stop me from going little more challenging. I grin at Mike and gesturer farther off the edge if I’m careless, and the trail is narrowing more up the mountain. “What’s up there?” I ask. “I don’t know and more. I start sweating in my nylon ski suit and push

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 21 Focus on WorldMark Red River & WorldMark Taos

my skis out to slow down. It doesn’t seem to be working. I NEW MEXICO TOURISM push harder and dig in deep with my feet, just like Mike had shown me, but I hit a small rock in the trail and go fl ying, feet over face, fi nally skidding to a stop, legs askance. Th at’s when I realize that this Florida girl is in over her head. I haul myself back to the side of the mountain and huddle in the snow as far from the edge as possible. I try to fi gure out a game plan to get down the slope without going too fast, and I realize some of the skiers and snowboarders whizzing past me are small children. Just then, an angel in a black ski suit with a Texan accent skis to a halt in front of me. “You OK, darlin’?” she drawls. I must have looked pretty lost. I realize that as I was pondering my tiny insignifi cance compared to this majestic mountain, I was standing in the middle of the trail, staring down at the beginners’ area below like it was a long lost love. My angel The Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area offers trails groomed for both classic and freestyle skiing. Located three in black helps me steady myself on the precarious hill as I miles east of Red River in the Carson National Forest, the remove my skis and follow her to the trail’s fi nal dropoff . groomed trails offer stunning views and a back-country feel She asks me about myself — I think as an eff ort to quell my as they wind through the forest. nerves as I peer over the last hill. “I’m a travel writer,” I tell her sheepishly. “A very cowardly travel writer!” We share a and, later, the American settlers, the natives of Taos Pueb- laugh and I feel my bravado slowly returning. I tell her I’ll lo continue to live much like their ancestors once did. In try skiing down the rest of the way. I can see the lodge — I 1898, artists Bert Phillips and Ernest Blumenschein were can taste the hot chocolate waiting for me if I can just get traveling through the area when the wagon wheel of their down there. It doesn’t look so bad, I think to myself. And horse-drawn carriage broke down. Th e pair stayed in Taos like that, I launch myself down the side of the mountain. for a week while the wheel was repaired and during that Halfway down, I know I’m going too fast. I dig in to time, they were completely mesmerized by the exotic and slow down but the powdery snow in this hill is just a thin noble culture of the natives and the rich, bold colors of the layer and my skis hit pure ice. I wobble to the left, sure landscape. Word about this inspiring land spread through- that I’ll taste snow yet again, and try to compensate by out the global art community, and artists from Paris, New leaning right. Th is continues for several moments until, York and all over the globe began to make their way to the miraculously, I reach the bottom unscathed. I eject my skis area. Th e Taos Society of Artists was founded in 1915 and and tiptoe to the lodge in my boots, taking little baby steps the town has never been the same since. like a geisha. When I fi nally reach the lodge and that cup My fi rst stop is to see the legendary home of artist of hot chocolate I’ve been dreaming about all day, I decide Nicolai Fechin, located on the same grounds of the new that even though I was humbled by the mountain, skiing WorldMark Taos. Born in 1881 in Russia, Fechin studied is still my new favorite sport. art in nearly every European capital before immigrating to the United States in 1923. After surviving a near-fatal A Colony of Creatives bout of Tuberculosis, Fechin moved west to drier climates. Th e next day, I head south to explore the famed artist Longtime friend and patron of the arts, Mabel Dodge colony of Taos. It’s early in the morning but I’m still a bit Luhan encouraged him to settle in Taos in 1927, where sleepy from staying up until 3 a.m. last night, entranced by he created some of his most infl uential works. Skilled not the delicate fl utter of the snowstorm that had been blow- only in oil painting, Fechin was a renowned sculptor and ing all night. I make a quick stop at Th e Candy Crate to wood carver. He soon purchased an adobe house, which pick up some homemade chocolate fudge on my way out he remodeled and expanded upon, using his trademark of town. Th e snow hasn’t stopped yet and I’m feeling like fusion of Russian, Spanish and Native American infl u- a kid at Christmas. ences. Today, the spectacular Fechin House is home to the Th e incredible story of Taos began in 1300 AD, when Taos Art Museum and houses works by Fechin and his the Native Americans of Taos Pueblo and Picuris Pueblo contemporaries. As I wander through the museum, I fi nd settled the area and built the same dwellings their ances- myself in awe. I move my eyes over a particularly distinc- tors inhabit today. After surviving skirmishes and wars tive and intricate wood-carved hutch, admiring the work with the Spanish conquistadors, the Mexican government of the master artist’s steady hand. On the way out, I chat

22 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 WorldMark Taos STEVE WANKE(6)

WorldMark Taos is captivating with its beautiful forest views and a lodge-style interior.

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 23 Focus on WorldMark Red River & WorldMark Taos

with the museum’s curator about Fechin’s carvings. Much STEVE WANKE to my delight, she informs me that there is Fechin-inspired woodwork inside the WorldMark Taos, which opens to the public in March 2008. As the snow continues to fall, I pull up to Eske’s Brewpub, where I’ve heard owner Steve Eskeback brews his own homemade beer on site. I fi nd myself an out-of-the-way table and order a cheeseburger with New Mexican green chiles, the perfect complement to Eske’s famous Green Chile Beer. When my food arrives, I take a tentative sip of my beverage and I’m pleased to fi nd the fl avor unlike anything else I’ve After a day of adventure, take a tried. I wasn’t sure if I should expect a spicy beverage, but warm soothing dip at Ojo Caliente. the sensation is just a mild tingle on my tongue. Th e fl avor of fresh green chiles is subtle, but easy to pick out. After my saddle, and deep purple moun- meal, Steve’s wife Wanda stops by to ask how everything is. tains surround us like sentinels She tells me that the brewpub started as an experiment in on all sides. As we wend our 1988, when Steve wanted to share his home-brewed beer way further into the foothills, with more people. “Th is place is a real labor of love,” she says Stormstar points at various with a smile. Today, Eske’s is one of the most popular gath- animal tracks along our path. ering spots in town, featuring Sushi Tuesdays, a new blue Tequila stumbles, dipping me

plate special lovingly prepared by Wanda each Sunday, live low in the saddle and my guide MIKE STAUFFER /NEW MEXICO TOURISM music and more. Steve also brews 26 to 30 diff erent kinds chuckles and off ers an Indian of beer throughout the year. Although not spicy to the taste, proverb. “It’s not enough to my glass of chile beer feels tingly and warm in my stomach know how to ride,” he says. and before I leave, Wanda makes me promise to return later “One must also know how to for her homemade fried chicken. fall.” Th e snow falls gently from the velvety gray sky and eventu- Learning How to Fall ally, the rocking gait of our horses and unspoiled serenity of Th e next stop on my journey is the Taos Indian Horse the plain lull us into an almost meditative hush. Th e horses Ranch, the only local ranch located within the Taos Pueblo. walk gingerly through the snow, and Tequila occasionally When I arrive at the ranch, I remember the Pueblo’s strict trots to keep up with Stormstar’s rugged stallion. A brown rules about photography on their sacred land and leave jackrabbit sprints across our path and Stormstar waves as he the camera in the car. I’m greeted by a handsome Native goes by. I suppose they are old friends. American man who smiles warmly and introduces himself as Stormstar. From there, we drive about fi ve miles outside A Soothing Soak Under the Stars of town to the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains After my hour-long ride, I’m feeling a little saddle- where Stormstar stops the truck in the middle of an open sore, but I have a feeling my next destination will take plain. About thirty horses and buff alo are grazing on the care of that perfectly. About an hour west of Taos, I ar- plain and Stormstar saddles a white horse he calls Tequila. rive at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs. Revered as sacred As he helps me climb into the saddle, he says, “OK, let me to Native Americans, the mineral springs are naturally see how you do for one full minute riding just around the heated by volcanic activity deep in the Earth, along the area, and then we’ll see whether you can ride her.” Tequila Ojo Caliente fault line. According to the Springs’ man- whinnies nervously and I pat her shaggy winter coat reas- ager, Ojo Caliente is “the only natural hot springs in the suringly. “Good girl,” I coo in her ear. Tequila seems to world with fi ve diff erent kinds of bubbling waters fl ow- approve of me and she whinnies a little more boldly. “Ah, ing from fi ve diff erent geysers.” Visitors may choose from she likes you just fi ne,” beams Stormstar. “Let’s go!” arsenic, iron, lithium, soda and sodium springs. Th e spa We ride out on the wooded plain, heading for the moun- also off ers seasonal mud baths, private outdoor pools, tain with Stormstar’s roan horse leading the way and Te- yoga classes, massages and various spa treatments. I opt quila following close behind. Th e terrain is blanketed in to try the thermal waters of the spring and am happy to white, with piñon and juniper bushes poking out of snow discover that the spa will loan me a bathing suit. After a drifts. Th e sapphire sky of morning has succumbed to low, quick rinse in the shower, I’m ready to head outside into gray clouds that look close enough to touch from Tequila’s the 15-degree weather.

24 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 STEVE WANKE get out of the iron pool’s warm waters to check out the soda pool, just feet away in an enclosed hut. When I enter the hut, I’m immediately struck by how dim the light is and how thick the steam is in this pool. Glancing up at the ceiling, I realize that I can just barely see through what looks to be a heavily screened roof. Th e only source of light in the hut is what looks to be a single bulb shining through primary-colored clear tiles. Th e thick fog picks up tones of yellow, red and blue and is so heavy, it completely obscures my hands when I hold them out in front of me. Th is pool is slightly less warm than the iron pool, but the visu- als create a surreal environment that makes me feel like I’m moving through a dream. I feel along the perimeter of the hut, in a truly tactile experience, feeling the same rock walls as the iron pool. Idly, I swirl the black water through my hands. In the dim light, it looks like liquid night. Next is the arsenic pool, located across the courtyard from the other two pools. It’s a long, cold sprint but I make it and give it a perfunctory dip of my toe. It takes a second for me to realize it’s far colder than the others. Th e arsenic pool will have to remain a mystery. Making the cold sprint across the courtyard once more, I plunge into the seduc- tive warmth of the iron pool. As I mold my back against the sandstone wall I close my eyes, inhale deeply then exhale into the frigid night air. Cool droplets of moisture tickle my face and I open my eyes. Slowly, gently, snow begins to fall. Th is is the perfect end to a perfect time spent in New Mexico. My departure is one of reluctance, Th e cold air is invigorating as I quickly tip-toe to the so as I pull out of the WorldMark Red River parking lot nearest pool in sight. I notice several signs in the area ask- and head for the airport, I glance in the rearview mir- ing me to whisper, if I must talk at all, as this is meant to ror. Th e resort looks so inviting and comfortable, nestled be a soothing, quiet place. Th e fi rst pool I come across is against white fl uff y snowdrifts with warm lights glowing the iron spring. I gingerly dip my toe into the water, not from the windows and white puff s of smoke rising from sure what kind of temperature to expect and immediately the chimneys. I think about my adventures in Taos and feel as if I’m taking a steaming hot bath. My toes had Red River thus far and feel a connection to this enchant- begun to ache from the cold and as I plunge the rest of ing land. Over the last few days I’ve done so much and my body into the dark liquid, I can tell I’m going to stay yet I’ve barely tasted what northern New Mexico has to here for awhile. off er. Snow is still falling all around me as my car makes I look around in the dim twilight and see a large sand- its way alongside the Rio Grande and Geronimo’s words stone cliff and mesa behind me. Th e spring is enclosed by drift through my mind: “I was born where there were no sandstone walls and hot water fl ows from fi ssures in the enclosures.” Looking back over the last few days I’ve spent rocks. On the bottom of the springs, I feel thousands of exploring this incredible area, I agree that New Mexico’s tiny, smooth river rocks massaging my toes. Th e surface of sweeping mountainous terrain truly is a land of no enclo- the water is thick with heavy steam. I dip my face under sures, but it’s also a lot more than that. To me, it’s the smell water then peek my eyes over the surface, feeling like a of the piñon trees and juniper and the avid celebration of contented crocodile. so many diverse cultures that blend together to make this After 15 minutes and with great eff ort, I make myself a place of wide open hills and wide open hearts. ■

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 25 These offers are a developer benefit made available by WorldMark by Wyndham, TRAVEL& ADVENTURE 9805 Willows Road NE, Redmond WA 98052. French Riviera The bay of St. Tropez

September 25-October 1, 2008 | 39,800 credits per person*

France’s Cote d’Azur, the international destination for the wealthy, is yours to explore during this six-night tour. Known as the French Riviera, this region is home to stunning cities, yacht-ﬁ lled bays and European panache. Using Nice as a home base you’ll take daily excursions to outlying cities, including Ventimiglia and Cannes, to get a truly authentic feel for this enchanting destination.

Packages Includes: • Six nights’ superior accommodations in Nice, France • Daily breakfast and three dinners • Daily excursions, including those to the Italian cities of Ventimiglia and San Remo; French cities of Grasse, St. Paul-de-Vence, Nice, St. Jean Cap Ferrat, St. Tropez and Cannes; and Monaco

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*Based on double occupancy. Solo connections tours cater to solo travelers; however, all owners are welcome. Solo owners will be paired up to meet double occupancy requirements. A limited number of single occupancy rooms are available for an additional 14,500 credits per person. Not included: Transaction fee (up to $129 USD), airfare, ground transportation, meals other than those specified above, gratuities, excursion activities, incidental expenses and beverages not part of the regular menu. Travelers are responsible for all required travel documents, including but not limited to passports and/or travel visas. Package includes walking tour, and walking throughout the tour may be on uneven terrain and may involve stairs and inclines. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motor coaches. Minimum age requirements may apply. Subject to change and availability. Arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Rd., Redmond, WA 98052. CSR 2067820-50. WA UBI 601190827. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307.

AMAZING MEXICO November 16-23, 2008 Carnival Inside Cabin: 14,750 credits per person* Outside Cabin: 16,750 credits per person* Balcony Cabin: 20,000 credits per person* Cruise Lines During this seven-night cruise, the Carnival Pride sails roundtrip from Los Angeles, Calif., for Mexico’s Puerto Vallarta, Takes You Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas. CAREEN THE CARIBBEAN — YOUR CHOICE OF TWO CRUISES November 29-December 6, 2008 Where You Inside Cabin: 12,750 credits per person* Outside Cabin: 15,000 credits per person* Want to Go Balcony Cabin: 18,500 credits per person* During this seven-night cruise, the Carnival Liberty sails roundtrip from Miami, Fla., for San Juan, Puerto Rico; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and St. Maarten, Netherlands Antilles. You’ll also enjoy exploring the ship during three fun-filled days at sea.

December 7-14, 2008 Inside Cabin: 12,250 credits per person* Outside Cabin: 15,000 credits per person* Balcony Cabin: 18,250 credits per person* During this seven-night cruise, the Carnival Conquest sails Call 1-800-953-5511 roundtrip from Galveston, Texas, for Montego Bay, Jamaica; to reserve your cabin Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; and Cozumel, Mexico.

*All rates based on double occupancy and include port charges and government taxes. Not included: Transaction fee (up to $129 USD), airfare, ground transportation, gratuities, excursion activities, incidental expenses and beverages not part of the regular menu. Most regular shipboard meals and entertainment are included. Passengers are responsible for all required travel documents, including but not limited to passports and/or travel visas. Minimum age requirements may apply to purchase. Subject to change and availability. Ships’ registry: Panama and Bahamas. Cruise arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Rd., Redmond, WA 98052. WA UBI 601190827. CSR 2067820-50. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307.

26 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 TRAVEL& ADVENTURE For more info, visit www.worldmarktheclub.com/adventures SEATTLE GETAWAY Spend the weekend away

AUGUST 810, 2008 | A weekend getaway to The Emerald City doesn’t get much better than this. Spend two days taking in Seattle’s world-famous sites, including those in water, on land and high in the sky. Pick your perfect package and get ready for a thrilling time.

WorldMark by PACKAGE 1: THE BEST OF SEATTLE 10,200 credits per person, double occupancy* Wyndham Travel: 3,800 credits per teen (age 13-17)** 2,600 credits per child (age 5-12)** 550 credits per child (age 0-4)**

Taste of • Two nights’ accommodations at Sheraton Hotel in downtown Seattle • Admission to the Space Needle • Tour of Seattle with Ride the Ducks™ of Seattle TravelShare • Dinner Cruise aboard the Royal Argosy (includes dinner, soft drinks, coffee, tea and gratuities) Anchors Away! • Host services by WorldMark by Wyndham representative *Two people must book. **Rates based on packages booked for same room; max occupancy per room is four people. Whether you’ve dreamed of viewing Alaskan glaciers up-close or visiting exotic island PACKAGE 2: SIMPLY SEATTLE destinations, WorldMark by Wyndham 4,200 credits per person 2,600 credits per child (age 5-12) Travel can make your dreams come true! 550 credits per child (age 0-4) For a limited time, you are able to use your credits toward select sailings on Carnival, • Same as Package 1 but does not include hotel accommodations Norwegian, Royal Caribbean or Princess • Reservations at the Camlin Resort must be made separately and are based on availability cruise lines when you book between PACKAGE 1 AND 2 OPTIONAL ADDITIONS January 2, 2008, and March 31, 2008 (travel • Whale Watching (1,600 credits per person) does not need to commence prior to the end • Future of Flight™ Aviation Center and Boeing Tour (1,300 credits per person) of the promotion). Don’t miss your oppor- • Overnight trip for two to San Juan Island, with whale watching in Friday Harbor tunity to swim with dolphins, snorkel in the while en route (9,000 credits per person) Caymans or spot whales in Alaska! • Additional nights at the Sheraton, prior to or following tour (6,000 credits per room, per night) Call WorldMark by Wyndham Travel at 1-800-953-5511 See the sights of Seattle — call 1-800-953-5511

Not included: Transaction fee (up to $129 USD), ground transportation, meals, incidental expenses and gratuities other than those specified above. Exchange fees apply. CSR 2067820-50. WA UBI Minimum age requirements may apply. Subject to change and availability. Arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Rd., Redmond, WA 601190827. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307. 98052. CSR 2067820-50. WA UBI 601190827. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307.

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 27 These offers are a developer benefit made available by WorldMark by Wyndham, TRAVEL& ADVENTURE 9805 Willows Road NE, Redmond WA 98052.

SEPTEMBER 12-14, 2008 JULY 4, 2008 8,300 credits per person, 2,000 credits per adult based on double occupancy* 4th of July 1,400 credits per child (age 5-12) 6,600 credits per person, based on triple occupancy* It wouldn’t be the Fourth of July 5,700 credits per person, without barbecue and ﬁ reworks. As based on quadruple occupancy* Fireworks you cruise Lake Union and enjoy a barbecue feast, watch the nighttime Spend your weekend exploring San Diego sky become illuminated and the lake and enjoying the accommodations at Cruise reﬂ ect the overhead beauty. the W Hotel San Diego. Egyptian-cotton sheets, skyline views and gourmet dining Package Includes: — it’s what makes the W so divine! Stay • Fireworks Cruise, lasting nearly within walking distance of popular spots, three hours and departing from including the Gaslamp Quarter and Little Kirkland, Wash. Italy, and discover the rest of the city at • Barbecue dinner your leisure. • Live band entertainment Package Includes: • All taxes and gratuities • Two nights’ accommodations at the W Hotel San Diego • Day at leisure to explore the city Celebrate in style ---- with the Go San Diego™ Card, offering CALL 1-800-953-5511 admission to more than 55 attractions call 1-800-953-5511 TO RESERVE YOUR and tours SPOT IN THE SUN OPTIONAL ADDITIONS • Gourmet Champagne Brunch Cruise offered by Hornblower Cruises (1,300 credits per adult, 900 credits per child) • Go San Diego Card for second consecutive day (800 credits per adult, 700 credits per child)

*Prices based on double, triple, or quadruple occupancy; reservations must include two, three or four persons Not included: Transaction fee ($10 USD), ground transportation to and from Kirkland, Wash., wine and to book specified package. Not included: Transaction fee ($28.50-$41.50 USD), ground transportation, beverages, incidental expenses and gratuities. Minimum age requirements may apply. Subject to change and meals, optional activities, incidental expenses and gratuities other than those specified above. Minimum age availability. Arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Rd., Redmond, WA 98052. CSR 2067820- requirements may apply. Subject to change and availability. Arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows 50. WA UBI 601190827. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307. Rd., Redmond, WA 98052. CSR 2067820-50. WA UBI 601190827. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307.

Catalina Island, paradise just oﬀ the California coast, is only a short boat ride away. Catalina Express For an enjoyable, quick and relaxing trip to the island, board the Catalina Express. Take in the views, keep an eye out for dolphins or simply relax in the airplane-inspired seats. Travel in Style

SATURDAY, JUNE 14, 2008 1,500 credits per adult 1,300 credits per child (age 5-12) 100 credits per infant (age 2 and younger)

Package Includes: • Roundtrip boat transportation to and from Catalina Island All aboard! Call 1-800-953-5511

Not included: Transaction fee ($7.50 USD), ground transportation to/from Long Beach (other than listed above), food, beverages, activities on Catalina Island, incidental expenses and gratuities. Minimum age requirements may apply. Subject to change and availability. Arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Rd., Redmond, WA 98052. CSR 2067820-50. WA UBI 601190827. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307.

28 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 TRAVEL& ADVENTURE For more info, visit www.worldmarktheclub.com/adventures

TIMELESS Barcelona, Spain SOUTHERN EUROPE 7-night Mediterranean Cruise with Norwegian Cruise Lines During this seven-night cruise, start a love affair with Europe while traversing the Mediterranean Sea. Wander the streets of Barcelona to discover La Sagrada Familia and Museo Picasso before sailing to romantic Italy, elegant France and captivating Malta.

NOVEMBER 916, 2008 Inside Cabin: 17,750 credits per person* Outside Cabin: 26,500 credits per person* Balcony Cabin: 32,000 credits per person* Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Gem sails roundtrip from Barcelona, Spain, for Valletta, Malta; Naples/Pompeii, Rome (Civitavecchia) and Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; and Nice (Villefranche), France. You’ll also be able to enjoy the phenomenal ship while spending one day at sea.

MAKE THIS YOUR VACATION — CALL 1-800-953-5511 Valletta, Malta

*All rates based on double occupancy and include port charges and government taxes. Not included: Transaction fee (up to $129 USD), airfare, ground transportation, gratuities, excursion activities, incidental expenses and beverages not part of the regular menu. Most regular shipboard meals and entertainment are included. Passengers are responsible for all required travel documents, including but not limited to passports and/or travels visas. Minimum age requirements may apply to purchase. Subject to change and availability. Ships’ registry: Bahamas. Cruise arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Rd., Redmond, WA 98052. WA UBI 601190827. CSR 2067820-50. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307.

Relax and unwind on your choice of cruises to Mexico. Decide to experience Cabo San Lucas or opt to explore Ensenada — both make ideal spots for a quick getaway. Time to Go to Mexico NOVEMBER 20-24, 2008 Carnival 3- and 4-night cruises Inside Cabin: 9,500 credits per person* Outside Cabin: 10,500 credits per person*

The Elation sails to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, from San Diego, Calif., during this four-night cruise. Before returning to San Diego, you’ll also enjoy two fun days at sea.

NOVEMBER 21-24, 2008 Inside Cabin: 7,250 credits per person* Outside Cabin: 8,000 credits per person*

The Paradise sails to Ensenada, Mexico, from Los Angeles, Calif., during this three-night cruise. Before returning to Los Angeles, you’ll also enjoy one fun- filled day at sea.

Choose your cruise today — call 1-800-953-5511

*All rates based on double occupancy and include port charges and government taxes. Not included: Transaction fee (up to $129 USD), airfare, ground transportation, gratuities, excursion activities, incidental expenses and beverages not part of the regular menu. Most regular shipboard meals and entertainment are included. Passengers are responsible for all required travel documents, including but not limited to passports and/or travel visas. Minimum age requirements may apply to purchase. Subject to change and availability. Cruises arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Rd., Redmond, WA 98052. Ships’ registry: Panama and the Bahamas. WA UBI 601190827. CSR 2067820-50. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307.

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 29 This program is offered as a developer benefit made available by TRAVELSHARE OFFERS WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Road NE, Redmond, WA 98052

SOLO CONNECTIONS

Discover Scotland

OCTOBER 2129, 2008 | 36,950 credits per person, based on double occupancy* Brilliant scenery, grand architecture and fascinating history — it’s what makes Scotland so intriguing, and so attractive. Experience it all during this exciting journey through Great Britain’s northernmost nation. You’ll see everything from the capital city of Edinburgh to the historic Old Course at St. Andrews. Explore the green countryside, visit ancient castles and drink in the malt whiskey — in the land of Scots, there’s no end to the possibilities. Package Includes: • Eight nights’ hotel accommodations in Edinburgh (2), Aviemore (1), Thurso (2), Ballachulish (2) • 15 meals, including eight breakfasts and seven dinners, with a welcome dinner in Edinburgh • Visits to Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Aviemore, Thurso, Orkney Islands, Loch Ness, Ballachulish, Isle of Skye and Falkirk • Deluxe motor coach transportation while touring Call 1-800-953-5511 to make your Scotland dreams a reality

*Based on double occupancy; reservation must include two persons. Not included: Ground transportation, meals, incidental expenses and gratuities other than those specified above. Passengers are responsible for all travel documents, including but not limited to passports and/or travel visas. Subject to change and availability. Arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Rd., Redmond, WA 98052. CSR 2067820-50. WA UBI 601190827. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307.

CONNECTIONS

There’s never a bad time to enjoy Mexico’s vibrant colors and relaxing lifestyle. Sail to Ensenada and Catalina from Los Angeles, or voyage to Ensenada and Exciting Mexico Cabo San Lucas from San Diego — the choice is yours. Carnival 4- and 5-night cruises Carnival Cruise Line’s Paradise sails roundtrip from Los Angeles, Calif., for Ensenada, Mexico, and Catalina, Calif. During this four-night cruise, you’ll also enjoy one fun-filled day at sea. NOVEMBER 17-21, 2008 Inside Cabin: 9,750 credits per person* Outside Cabin: 10,750 credits per person*

Carnival Cruise Line’s Elation sails roundtrip from San Diego, Calif., for Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas. During this five-night cruise, you’ll also enjoy two fun- filled days at sea. NOVEMBER 29-DECEMBER 4, 2008 Inside Cabin: 7,000 credits per person* Outside Cabin: 8,250 credits per person*

Call 1-800-953-5511 to reserve your cabin today

*All rates based on double occupancy and include port charges and government taxes. Not included: Airfare, ground transportation, gratuities, excursion activities, incidental expenses and beverages not part of the regular menu. All regular shipboard meals and entertainment are included. Passengers are responsible for all required travel documents, including but not limited to passports and/or travel visas. Minimum age requirements may apply to purchase. Subject to change and availability. Ships’ registry: Panama and Bahamas. Cruises arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Rd., Redmond, WA 98052. WA UBI 601190827. CSR 2067820-50. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307.

26 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 TRAVELSHARE OFFERS For more information, sign in at www.worldmarktheclub.com

CONNECTIONS QUARTERLY COLLECTION INTO THE MEXICO DEPTHS OF COPPER CANYON AT ITS BEST Travel Specials for Credits!

To celebrate the New Year, WorldMark by Wyndham Travel is offering TravelShare owners the exciting opportunity to use credits toward the purchase of any eligible Mexico’s Copper Canyon, airfare or cruise product. You may make an exotic and astonishing natural and purchase your travel arrangements phenomenon, is the focal point of this starting January 2, 2008, and ending adventure through Mexico. Made up March 31, 2008, though travel can com- of six canyons that rival the Grand mence beyond the expiration of this offer. Canyon, Copper Canyon is more than While some products have limited avail- just a tourist attraction — it is home to many cultures, traditions and, of ability, there are no blackout dates. Act course, beauty. From the Sonora Desert Package Includes: quickly — this promotion is only offered to the Sierra Madre Mountains, no part • Eight nights’ hotel accommodations in for a limited time! of Mexico’s beautiful Copper Canyon Tucson, Ariz. (1), San Carlos (2), region will be left unseen. El Fuerte (1), Copper Canyon (2), Call WorldMark Chihuahua (1) and El Paso, Texas (1) by Wyndham NOVEMBER 1523, 2008 • Daily breakfast, three lunches and seven 36,400 credits per person, based on dinners, including a welcome dinner Travel at double occupancy* in Tucson 1-800-953-5511 • Visits to San Carlos, El Fuerte, Copper for further details. Canyon, Creel and Chihuahua, as well Don’t miss out as Tucson, Ariz., and El Paso, Texas on this great THE CANYON IS CALLING — opportunity — ANSWER WITH A CALL TO start making your 1-800-953-5511 plans today!

*Based on double occupancy. Solo Connections tours cater to solo travelers; however, all owners are welcome. Solo owners will be paired up to meet double occupancy requirements. A limited number of single occupancy rooms are available for an additional 10,000 credits per person. Not included: Airfare, ground transportation, meals other than those specified above, gratuities, excursion activities, incidental expenses and beverages not part of the regular menu. Travelers are responsible for all required travel documents, including but not limited to passports and/or travel visas. Package includes walking tour; walking throughout the tour may be on uneven terrain and involve stairs and inclines. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motor coaches. Minimum age requirements map apply. Subject to change and availability. Arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Rd., Redmond, WA 98052. CSR 2067820-50. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307.

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 27 This program is offered as a developer benefit made available by TRAVELSHARE ELITE OFFERS WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Road NE, Redmond, WA 98052

TRAVEL ALA CARTE CONNECTIONS DIAMOND

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO® RESORT PASSES

Less expensive than other parks — only 2,200 credits per person! 7DAY, 6NIGHT CRUISE Offering unlimited admission to Universal Studios Florida® and Universal’s Islands of Adventure®, this one-day pass offers hours of fun for you and your family while visiting Central Florida. You’ll have access to dining and live entertainment at Universal CityWalk®, beyond-the-screen action at Universal Studios and cutting-edge thrill rides at Islands of Adventure! With exciting attractions, such as The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman®, Dueling Dragons®, Shrek 4-D™ and Revenge Bermuda’s pink sand beaches and brilliant-blue waters are just the beginning of the color spectrum of the Mummy™, you’ll never want this you’ll encounter there. Spend four days exploring beautiful St. George, including the depths of its exciting vacation to end! At only 2,200 ocean and the tops of its historic sites. This six-night cruise is made even more magniﬁ cent with credits per person (same price for children Norwegian Cruise Line’s signature Freestyle Cruising, allowing you to explore the island, and the ship, and adults), a world of adventure awaits you on your own schedule. at Universal Orlando! SEPTEMBER 13-30, 2008 | Inside Cabin: starting at 18,100 credits per person* Call 1-800-953-5511 today to book this exciting adventure! Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Majesty sails roundtrip from Philadelphia, Pa., for the Bermuda Islands. During this luxurious six-night cruise, you’ll also enjoy two wonderful days at sea.

And don’t forget these other exciting Travel Ala Carte Elite opportunities: • Victoria Clipper • Lake Powell Houseboat Rentals CALL 18009535511 TO • New York City Packages RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY • Eurail Train Passes • Maui Luau • City Passes *All rates based on double occupancy. Not included: Airfare, ground transportation, port charges, government taxes, gratuities, Call 1-800-953-5511 for details excursion activities, incidental expenses and beverages not part of the regular menu. Most regular shipboard meals and entertainment are included. Passengers are responsible for all required travel documents, including but not limited to passports and/or travel visas. Minimum age requirements may apply to purchase. Subject to change and availability. Ships’ registry: Bahamas. Cruises Prices subject to change and are based on availability. Fuel arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Rd., Redmond, WA 98052. WA UBI 601190827. CSR 2067820-50. surcharges and cancellation penalties may apply. CSR 2067820- 50. WA UBI 601190827. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307.

28 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 TRAVELSHARE ELITE OFFERS For more information, sign in at www.worldmarktheclub.com

CONNECTIONS PLATINUM SEPTEMBER 1523, 2008 European (other dates available) 37,100 credits per person* As you wind your way through Germany, Exploration the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Austria, you’ll discover a Europe only the luckiest people are able to experience. You’ll visit cities filled with old-world charm as you travel to the past but experience the present. Europe’s most intriguing cities, including Berlin and Budapest, act as a window into the continent’s captivating history.

Package Includes: • Eight nights’ superior hotel accommodations in Berlin (2), Prague (2), Budapest (2), Vienna (2) • Daily buffet breakfasts and three 3-course dinners, including a welcome dinner in Berlin • Guided sightseeing in Berlin, Prague, Budapest and Vienna It’s time to discover Europe — call 1-800-953-5511

*All rates based on double occupancy; additional taxes and fees apply. Not included: Airfare, ground transportation, gratuities not mentioned in package, excursion activities, incidental expenses and meals not mentioned above. Passengers are responsible for all required travel documents, including but not limited to passports and/or travel visas. Minimum age requirements may apply to purchase. Subject to change and availability. Tour arranged by WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Rd., Redmond, WA 98052. WA UBI 601190827. CSR 2067820-50. Nevada Seller of Travel 2003-0307.

CONNECTIONS ELITE

Toronto Niagra Falls SEPTEMBER 21-24, 2008 (other dates available) 4-day 11,350 credits per person* Fall in love with Ontario’s capital and Canada’s largest tour of city, Toronto. Every bit as cosmopolitan as New York City, Toronto is a city full of cultural and entertainment endeavors. A hop-on/hop-off tour allows you to Canada’s explore the sites, including the Royal Ontario Museum and the CN Tower, at your own pace, and a guided- finest tour to breathtaking Niagara Falls puts the finishing touches on an already remarkable trip. Royal Ontario Museum Package Includes: • Three nights’ hotel accommodations in Toronto • One day of leisure for personal exploration • Guided sightseeing of Toronto aboard a double-decker bus • Guided tour to Niagara Falls featuring a ride onboard the Maid of the Mist Don’t delay ----- call 1-800-953-5511

DESTINATIONS | March 2008 29 Lasting impression PHOTOS BY ED WIENS

A Worthwhile Rescue

wner Ed Wiens and his family were driving from Weed, ily fi nally located a young man who worked for the Wildlife OCalif., to the WorldMark Resort in Klamath Falls, Ore., Department to lend a helping hand in rescuing the bird. on New Years Eve in 2007 when they caught sight of a red- Ed has been sure to keep up with the progress of the hawk. tailed hawk standing on the road shoulder, about 5 feet from the Th e Wildlife Department reports that it’s too soon to know pavement. It was obvious that something was wrong with the if she’ll be able to fl y without restriction, but she’s eating well bird — it was acting almost as if it knew it needed to be visible and may get transferred to an enclosed aviary soon. If she can to passing motorists “hoping” someone would call for help. Ed fl y, she’ll be released back into the wild and if she is unable, and his family immediately turned around, drove back and saw she’ll likely go to a zoo, school or permanent facility. Th e Wiens that it had an injured wing and blood on its beak. After several family has dubbed the bird “Eve” and they plan to continue to attempts at fi nding someone to rescue the hawk, the Wiens fam- follow the progress of their rescued hawk.

30 DESTINATIONS | March 2008 How far will TravelShareSM take you? When your WorldMark® ownership has taken you as far as you think you could go, consider adding TravelShare. You’ll get more vacation choices and planning ﬂexibility, which could be exactly what you need to get more out of life.

For more information, call 1-800-304-5212

This advertising material is intended to solicit sales of timeshare interests. Not an offer in states where registration requirements have not been met. WorldMark by Wyndham, 9805 Willows Road NE, Redmond, WA 98052 New Name— Same Great Program

The Trendwest Real Estate Referral ProgramSM is now the WORLDMARK BY WYNDHAM REAL ESTATE REFERRAL PROGRAMSM , but the benefits of this program remain unchanged. Call us first when it’s time to buy or sell your home, and you could earn 1,000 permanent WorldMark® credits—renewed automatically every year—for life. The WorldMark by Wyndham Real Estate Referral Program provides expert service from renowned firms, including Century 21®, ERA®, and Coldwell Banker®, through an exclusive program available only to eligible WorldMark owners. If you’re buying and selling a home, you could earn up to 2,000 lifetime credits! Call today and find out if you qualify. CALL TOLL FREE AT 1-877-869-9672 Inquire online at www.worldmarktheclub.com/owners/realestate.shtml

THIS PROGRAM OFFERED AS A DEVELOPER BENEFIT MADE AVAILABLE BY WORLDMARK BY WYNDHAM.

Transaction must be initiated through the WorldMark by Wyndham Real Estate Referral Program (“Program”) office to qualify. Owner must have purchased a WorldMark membership on or before November 5, 2006, or if purchased after that date, owner must be a TravelShare member in good standing. Vacation credits will be available only to eligible WorldMark owners who first register with the Program and have been referred to the participating local broker through the Program. Owners going directly to the individual real estate brokers without referral will not be eligible to partake in this offer. Credits cannot be awarded for previous transactions currently under contract. Trendwest Resorts, Inc. is a licensed real estate broker in the State of California, license #01104046. A certain minimum value per transaction is required. Some transactions may not be eligible. Program may not be available in all states. To see if your transaction meets minimum requirements and the program is available in your state, call 1-877-869-9672. Participating brokers are subject to change.

PRESORTED STD 9805 Willows Road NE U.S. POSTAGE Redmond, WA 98052 PAID HICKORY NC PERMIT NO. 104 New Name— Same Great Program

THIS PROGRAM OFFERED AS A DEVELOPER BENEFIT MADE AVAILABLE BY WORLDMARK BY WYNDHAM.

3999 Henning Drive, Suite 100 Burnaby, BC V5C 6P9 Canada PM40870507