Resort Name: Jardine Amadores

Location: Gran Canaria

Unit Size: 1 bed sleep 4

Week: 27 + 28

Price: £1,950.00 p.w.



Resort Name: Royal Sunset Beach Club

Location: Tenerife

Unit Size: 1 bed sleep 4

Week: 02

Price: £950.00



Resort Name: Cameron House

Location: Scotland

Unit Size: 2 bed sleep 6

Weeks: 21

Price: £6,500.00



Resort Name: Marriott's Marbella

Location: Spain

Unit Size: 2 bed sleep 6

Weeks: Gold Holiday

Price: £5,950.00



Resort Name: Macdonald Lochanhully

Location: Scotland

Unit Size: 2 bed sleep 6

Weeks:  33

Price: £1,250.00



Resort Name: Jardine Amadores

Location: Gran Canaria

Unit Size: 1 bed sleep 4

Weeks: 13 + 14

Price: £1,950.00 p.w.



Resort Name: Marriott's Club Son Antem

Location: Mallorca

Unit Size: 3 bed sleep 6

Week: Gold

Price: £6,500.00



Resort Name: Anfi Beach Club

Location: Gran Canaria

Unit Size: 2 bed sleep 6

Week: 07

Price: £3,250.00



Resort Name: Sheraton Pine Cliffs

Location: Algarve

Unit Size: 3 golf villa sleep 8

Weeks: Platinum

Price: £15,500.00 p.w.

Should any of the above be of interest, or should you be looking for something more specific, then please contact our Senior Sales Negotiator Steve Frankland on 01787 888117.

For a full list of bargains, available for purchase now, please visit http://www.travelandleisuregroup.co.uk

The Algarve proves it’s more than just sun and shoreline. Some of the Algarve's hidden villages and hamlets provide this region with such striking contrast.

The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, first became popular with holidaymakers in the 1960s, when intrepid travellers began arriving en-masse from places such as Germany and Britain. Its picturesque landscape includes the staggering wild beauty of the west coast and traditional inland villages, not to mention the areas rich history and culture. Thanks in large to these attributes, its popularity has exploded over the past few decades. Various developments have popped up, and today’s Algarve has something to offer everyone — from shopping to golf. Still, the region’s raison d’être remains the stunning beaches — and perhaps just as vital, the laid-back and fun-loving towns that can be found adjacent to the sandy shoreline.

One such town, Armacao de Pera, is the scene of one of my fondest Algarve memories. It was full of both residents and tourists, and I would play darts and pool in the local English pub, and take part in all manner of wacky competitions. It’s a terrific memory of the Algarve that I fell in love with years ago — and is still typical of the weekend evenings in this high-spirited community.

Albufeira and Praia da Rocha are also particularly appealing. Plenty of Irish and English pubs offer all-day English breakfasts, evening karaoke and other night-time festivities. If this isn’t your scene, don’t worry; unabashed revelry is only a small part of the Algarve.

The Old Town of Albufeira for example, is very pretty and low-key and has a colourful modern marina. You could easily while away an entire afternoon wandering amidst the everyday sights of this beautiful settlement built right against the mighty Atlantic Ocean.

As must-see as these towns are, when it comes to village sightseeing, Armação de Pêra, Albufeira and Praia da Rocha should be just the beginning of your Algarve itinerary. Nestled inland among olive and cork trees and aromatic orange groves or, sitting prettily along the water’s edge, the region boasts numerous quaint little hamlets.

At the heart of the Algarve’s interior, one of my favourites is Alte. It’s considered the territory’s most traditional village, and is home to Fonte Pequena and Fonte Grande, two idyllic water springs that have evolved into hot spots, where you can escape the incessant sunshine. Originally the local women gathered to do their laundry, but the area was given a facelift in the 1940s and walls were built along the waterside where stone seating areas were erected. The springs have also become a sort of de facto tribute to one of the country’s most famous poets, Cândido Guerreiro, who was born in Alte in the late 1800s.

Not far from the springs you will find a charming shop, that was sells homemade soap. Ingredients included many Portuguese specialities, such as olive oil and orange blossom, and whether you’re souvenir shopping or simply want to bask in the pleasant fragrances, the shop, called Papa Figo, is a real gem and should not be missed.



Back on the coast, tucked along the bank of the Arade River, west of Albufeira, is a picture-postcard example of a traditional fishing village, Ferragudo. The fish canning business was prosperous here through the early 1900s, but the industry has since given way to tourism, and with good reason: Its vast beach is the ideal place sun seekers and those who enjoy a spot of water-skiing or windsurfing. For the less energetic, the beachside restaurants are fantastic vantage points from which to watch all of the action.

Ferragudo is built on a slight hill and if you’re up for a bit of a trek along the winding cobbled streets and alleyways, there’s a pretty church with lovely views at the top, so it’s well worth the climb — just don’t wear your high heels. In fact, heels should be worn sparingly, if at all when visiting the Algarve, because the majority of the streets are paved with calçada, or cobblestones. It’s quaint, yes, but can ruin footwear which is not designed for the task.

Just east of Ferragudo lies Praia do Carvoeiro, another former fishing village. Over the past 30 years or so this community has seen some pretty dramatic changes in terms of development. Yet, it is still an ideal place for people who are looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of the area’s larger cities, but still want a good choice of beaches, restaurants, bars and shops.

One of the most impressive attractions, however, isn’t human-made at all. It’s Algar Seco, a stunning location where the ocean has carved a series of geometric shapes and full-blown caves out of the limestone cliffs. Countless hours can be spent here sunbathing and watching some braver-than-I people dive from the rocky overhangs.

As an adult, I appreciate the sheer splendour of Algar Seco, and marvel at the power of the sea to create such a seemingly effortless masterpiece.

The Wild West

Europe’s most south-westerly spot, Cape St Vincent, which is just west of the town of Sagres, is yet another breathtaking natural wonder. The enchanting beauty of this location cannot be beaten. Standing on top of the cliffs next to the lighthouse and looking out to sea is quite simply awe-inspiring. It can also be quite chilly, so take a warm sweater with you.

More striking seascapes can be found up and down the west coast. The beaches along this secluded expanse of land are tremendously appealing to surfers, and Carrapateira is one of the favourites amongst the many sandy enclaves.



As you travel along the western coastal roads, there are stretches where it feels as though you’re in the middle of nowhere. Eventually though, you’ll round a corner and see the delightful town of Aljezur looming ahead. It’s small, yet bustling, and there are a number of restaurants and the remains of a Moorish castle for history seekers.

It is also home to something a little more eccentric. Each October it holds a sweet potato festival. But don’t worry if you’re not around for it; the Algarve is known for its fairs and festas, and there is almost always some sort of celebration taking place.

Fatacil is the biggest and it happens every August in Lagoa. You will find exhibitors from all over the world selling everything from Peruvian sweaters and Egyptian paintings, to horses and plenty of traditional Portuguese items. There’s live music, handicrafts and gastronomy galore, including stalls where grandfatherly-type men sell barbecued octopus.

Marriott Vacation Club International has opened Crystal Shores on Marco Island - the club's first beachfront resort on the Gulf of Mexico.

Situated on the Marco Island's white sandy beaches, the resort's 1st phase has 71 with 2 and 3-bedroom capacity, with 219 villas proposed for the future.

Holidaymakers will be able to enjoy the zero-entry pool area with waterslide at the resort as well as a whirlpool spa and six cabanas with flat-panel televisions.

There is also a large outdoor terrace and barbeque areas for some evening-time fun.

Stephen Weisz, president of Marriott Vacation Club International explained "After more than 17 years of searching for just the right location on Marco Island, we couldn't be more pleased to see this resort come to fruition on this prime beachfront setting".

Earlier this year, the club opened the Napili Villas as part of the final expansion phase in Marriott's Maui Ocean Club.

Across the UK There are 113 timeshare resorts to choose your holiday from, many of which are in popular areas of the country such as Scotland, the Lake District and the West Country.

Brian Folley made his comments for timeshare magazine Owners Perspective and noted that 15 extra sites are currently being looked into for new resort initiatives.

He stated that timeshare owners are currently in a win-win situation with regards to the contradiction of the desire to go on holiday and the need to cut back on costs during the economic downturn, as much of the holiday is already paid for.

More and more owners are rating timeshare accommodation, customer service and facilities highly as they rise to greater levels of sophistication, particularly in the UK, Mr Folley added.

Bernard Donoghue, the head of government and public affairs at ‘Visit Britain’, has said that Britain is the best destination for tourists in the world as it is so diverse.

Timeshare offers a superb holiday choice for thousands across Europe and these are just a few of the reasons why you should consider a timeshare purchase:

• Quality - timeshare offers superior accommodation at top of the range resorts with excellent on-site facilities such as golf courses, leisure complexes, tennis courts and spas. A 2006 survey amongst timeshare owners showed that 96% of owners say that timeshare is better than other self catering holidays


• More than just a hotel room – apartments range in size from studios - sleeping 2, to 3 bedded apartments – sleeping 8, many with 3 bathrooms. Some may even have a private sauna or pool. Timeshare accommodation tends to be far more spacious than other accommodation types, with kitchens and sizeable living/dining rooms.


• The world’s your oyster - through the exchange system, you’re not restricted to going to the same resort each year. A global network of accommodation will give you access to some of the most beautiful places in the world


• It’s family orientated –  many resorts offer exceptional entertainment for both children and adults such as kids’ clubs, nannies, play facilities as well as bands, magicians, dancers and local art and cultural events.


• Flexibility - with the advent of points, timeshare is more flexible than ever and you can take a number of short breaks instead of a week or two week holiday.


• Versatility – it’s not just apartments and lodges but also cottages and villas that are available to stay at if you own timeshare. Or how about trying a catamaran, a house boat, a cruise ship, a canal boat or even an RV (recreational vehicle)?


• It’s hassle free – unlike owning an outright property, the maintenance of the resort is taken care of by the management company, so owners are free to relax and enjoy their holidays


• Price - you’re paying for tomorrow’s holidays at today’s prices and with Travel & Leisure, you can find yourself owning the quality you desire, at a fraction of the developer’s costs.


• It’s personal – many owners like to meet up with friends they have made over the years by going back to resorts they know so well


• Pass it on to your children – timeshare can be bequeathed in your will so your children can continue to enjoy the quality holidays they become accustomed to


• Timeshare is not a financial investment - you are buying future holidays at today’s prices rather than a property based investment


• Is the resort a member of the industry trade body? – Resort Development Organisation. Its members, such as Travel & Leisure Group, sign up to the OTE code of conduct

The Timeshare Association (Timeshare Owners and Committees) Ltd is a limited company that was formed in 1989 predominately as a networking group for timeshare owners committees and their members. Its original objectives are more relevant today than before.

- To actively promote the positive image of timeshare through all communications channels.

- To encourage the efficient management of timeshare resorts through communication and education and to promote the maintenance of high quality standards of facilities and amenities.

- To lobby and campaign on matters related to timeshare and timeshare owners by liaison with trade industry bodies and government departments.

It is the only elected consumers association to represent the interests of timeshare owners in Europe. Its mission statement is "TATOC exists to safeguard and enhance the timeshare holiday experience for existing and prospective users and to be the voice of owners". TATOC has access to an army of happy timeshare owners - people who have owned the product for many years and have nothing except genuine and positive comments to offer about their holiday experiences.

TATOC believes the opinions of owners provide a critical contribution to the transformation of timeshare's reputation here in Europe and could see a marked improvement in both the popularity and acceptance of timeshare in a variety of different business environments whilst also assisting in the lobbying process re legislation that affects the industry, so TATOC ensures that these owners are given a voice.

There are in excess of 80 TATOC member resorts spreading across many parts of Europe. Collectively, these resorts give TATOC access to some 250,000 families across Europe.

TATOC is launching a resort accreditation scheme and is offering its members assistance and education in carrying out the duties of a Committee. TATOC is supported by many companies within the timeshare industry including Diamond Resorts International ®, Macdonalds Hotels, RCI, Interval International and Travel and Leisure Group. TATOC also handles consumer complaints and works closely with, but independently from RDO, to monitor and guide consumers with problems on +44 (0) 845 230 2430

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The Resort Development Organisation (RDO) increased spending on its Enforcement Project in Spain last year to €130,000. This project has logged a series of key successes over the past year, including the closure of 10 fraudulent Discount Travel Membership Clubs (also known as holiday clubs) sales decks and 23 bogus Resale and Class Action companies by the police - working closely with OTE's enforcement team, headed up by  a former Canary Islands police inspector.















A further 3 Discount Travel Membership Club sales decks closed down voluntarily as a result of pressure from the authorities.















RDO's enforcement project has logged a series of key successes over the past year.















This work is part of RDO's remit to reduce fraudulent practices affecting timeshare owners and other holiday makers. Over the past year, RDO intensified measures in the Canary Islands - primarily in Tenerife - where fraud has been more prevalent. These measures include the identification of sales decks for Discount Travel Membership Clubs which leads to heavy on-street sales activities.















The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) estimates that 400,000 Britons lose £1.2 billion each year to bogus Discount Travel Membership Clubs. These figures compare starkly with complaints about timeshare, which have been reducing steadily year on year.















In meetings with senior police officers in Spain, RDO's enforcement manager has stressed the damage caused by Discount Travel Membership Clubs and fraudulent re-sale companies, to the tourism industry in general and also to legitimate timeshare resale operations in particular.















Note from editor.







Always ensure that if you are 'cold called' or contacted by some company you have had no prior dealings with, that you do not believe that they have a buyer for you. It is virtually 100% certain that the company is a 'SCAM' company and that they are trying to get you to part with money on a fraudulent basis.







Whether you are considering selling your timeshare or purchasing another, then you should also ensure that the company you contact is a registered member of the RDO, such as the Travel and Leisure Group.

OTE (Organisation for Timeshare in Europe) has announced that it has changed its name to Resort Development Organisation (RDO). The new name is reflective of developments in the vacation ownership industry, which has changed dramatically since the 1960s when timeshare was first sold, giving the holiday owners fixed weeks at resorts. Since the 60s new forms of vacation ownership have emerged giving the consumer more flexibility and choice, such as ‘floating weeks’, the points system and, more recently, fractional ownership, destination clubs, private residence clubs and condo hotels.



RDO’s chairman, Richard McIntosh said: “I believe that RDO truly reflects the extensive range of holiday options now available in the vacation ownership market. By widening the scope of the organisation’s membership, we are representing the industry as a whole rather than just focusing on timeshare. “The level of complaints for timeshare is at a very low level and is decreasing year on year, which compares starkly with other holiday options, such as holiday clubs (or discount travel clubs), which are not governed by specific legislation and do not benefit from trade body representation. Under RDO, the free complaints resolution service and dispute resolution scheme will be opened up to more people”, concludes McIntosh.



RDO (Resort Development Organisation) is the trade body dedicated to excellence and fair trading in the European vacation ownership industry, whilst promoting and fostering industry growth. As such, it serves its members through , legislative lobbying, public relations, research and member and consumer relations management.



RDO will continue to work closely with governments, consumer bodies and relevant NGOs to ensure that legislation is appropriate and fair; promote best practice and fair trading in all areas of the industry; to protect consumers via its code of conduct and to help the authorities to combat fraud.



Resort Development Organisation, formerly Organisation for Timeshare in Europe AISBL is an international non profit making association registered in Brussels with company number 0457.984.213. Its registered office is at Oak House, Cours St Michel 100/3, 1040 Brussels, Belgium