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Bangkok
JANUARY – JUNE 2019FOR MEMBERS ONLY
Manic Metropolis
Paris
ISSUE 34
City of Light
SGI VACATION CLUB TIMESHARE MEMBERSHIP SCHEME
Group TravellingTOP 5 T i p s
Snap, Write & Redeem
Travel Contest
3 Message from the CEO
4 City of Light – Paris, France
9 Manic Metropolis – Bangkok, Thailand
14 Travel Trends Prediction for 2019
15 Member Services Insights
19 Hotel Exchange
20 SGI VC Latest Updates
25 Credit Highlights: Advanced Payment
26 Snap, Write and Redeem
27 Top 5 Tips: Group Travelling
28 Members’ Testimonials
29 SGI VC – Meet the Team
CONTENT
Message from the CEO
Dear SGI VC Members,
Happy New Year from all of us at SGI VC!
There are certainly a lot of hope and expectations into making2019 a good year. We all welcome a new year with newResolutions. These are a great way to help shape our goalsfor the rest of the year. As for our members, we hope that youcross out more destinations from your travel bucket list. OurNew Year Resolution – we will strive to give you a betterexperience!
New Year, New Beginning
Vacations are certainly something that all of us are lookingforward for each year. According to 2019 Global TravelForecast by Carlson Wagonlit, prices i.e. hotelaccommodation, flights and ground transportation may rise in2019 and this will definitely make it a little more challenging foraspiring travellers to explore the destinations they have inmind.
People will begin to be more mindful on all travelling expensesand some might even cut loose on their planned overseastravelling. However, for SGI VC members, you can nowmaximize the use of your Vacation Club Membership withInterval International (II). You will find a wide variety offeatures and benefits with II membership which will help you insaving costs on your next journey. For instance, the USD iscurrently exchanged for almost four times the amount of MYR.While it is almost impossible to predict the exchange rate inthe future, it is safe to say that such unfavourable exchangerate may continue to be a disadvantage to Malaysians whentravelling abroad in the near future.
The good news is your Vacation Club membership protectsyou against the unfavourable exchange rates as a memberdoes not incur accommodation costs.
Also, estimated price per night will remain unchanged despitethe general global inflation of hotel rates as you have securedtoday’s accommodation prices for all your future vacations bybeing a member.
Expected Travel Trends in 2019
According to Booking.com, travellers would prefer to addvaluable experiences from their travel in 2019. Travellers willseek to take the road less taken, away from the regular tourist-like style of travelling. It is also driven by the urge to pick up anew skill or acquire new knowledge while traveling.Personally, I enjoy exploring cultural villages and watchingnative performances when travelling. It brings immense joy todiscover the cultural roots of the places I visit.
Booking.com further added that travellers would also opt for amore personalised travel itinerary to carefully fit his or hertravel needs. I found that being a vacation club memberenables a member do just that, having that flexibility to exploreat your will. With the current technological advancement, a lotof self-research can be done through a carefully plannedvacation. When travelling overseas, a smartphone can be aneffective personal assistant. I often make it a point to purchasea local sim card to save up on hefty roaming charges.
Furthermore, studies from Mastercard.com show that thedesired choice of travel destination for Malaysians in 2019includes cities like Paris and Sydney. With our GlobalExchange Partner, Interval International, you can now exploreresorts in these exciting locations without having to pay forquality accommodations. Coincidentally, we have featuredParis in this issue of Vacation Views. My personal favourite iscertainly the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. Find outmore inside!
Explore and Discover
In this issue of Vacation Views, we have two featureddestinations – Paris and Bangkok. These destinations are inmost of our travel bucket lists. Hence, we trust that theinformation given would be helpful to you.
So, go ahead, explore Paris and Bangkok and let us knowyour experience.
“A journey of a thousand miles, begins with a single step. Sotake your first step today, and start exploring the world!”
Happy Reading and Happy New Year!
Ivan TingCEO, SGI Vacation Club
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2018 turned out to be an eventful year for us. We undertook multiple initiatives throughout the year to build a better relation-ship with our members and our employees. These initiatives were not only an opportunity to spend some quality bonding time, it was also to know the members and to better understand their experiences with us. Looking back, a lot of significant achievements took place within the year and 2018 was indeed a memorable one.
New year is all about starting afresh. The birth of 2019 marks the beginning of our Scheme 2 Membership. Launched in December 2018, I believe that the new scheme is set to reach out to a wider spectrum of people with its shorter 15-years term and affordability. With the new program, SGI VC has also stopped the sales of the 30-years Scheme/Program in which you are a member.
City of Light, PARIS
Season Warm Season(Summer & Autumn)
Cool Season(Winter & Spring)
Average Temperature (°C) 13 - 24 7 - 12
Recommended Clothing
Casual blouses, sweaters or jackets, comfortable pants and skirts. An umbrella will be a necessity as rainfall is expected
all year - round.
Clothing that will keep you warm such as winter clothing, boots, sneakers, pants, hats or scarves.
An umbrella will be a necessity as rainfall is expected all year-round.
Step to the beat and discover it’s hidden secrets Order a morning latte and a butteredcroissant, as you watch the hustle and bustleof the French capital, a dream destination formillions of people each year.
Gaze around the beautiful city, cruise alongthe river of Seine, stroll to one of the lushgreen parks or indulge in scrumptiousFrench cuisines, Paris is a combination ofrich culture, art, fashion valley, uniquearchitecture and culinary scenes.
Paris has a temperate of oceanic climatewith warm summers and cold winters.There are 4 seasons in Paris which are:Spring (March - May), Summer (June -August), Autumn (September - December)Winter (January - February).
There is a marked difference between theseasons but extreme hot or coldtemperatures are rare. Rainfall is moderateand steady all year-round. July is thehottest month in Paris with an averagetemperature of 20°C and the coldest isJanuary at 5°C.The best time to visit Parisis during Spring (March – May) as it startsout chilly with daily highs of around 12°C.By May the weather warms up to a verypleasant 20°C.
Source: https://www.theweathernetwork.com/fr/weather/ile-de-france/paris
Weather & Season Forecast
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Recommended Resort
The flight duration from Kuala Lumpur toParis takes approximately 15 hours with onestop at Dubai for 2 hours landing at Charlesde Gaulle Airport Paris. Airlines that operateson this route include Emirates Airlines andMalaysia Airlines.
Emirates Airlines would be the mostrecommended airline for cost efficiency whentravelling to Paris. The table below has thelowest promo flight rate for round trip bymonthly period:
Travel Period Flight Rates From
January - February RM3000++
March - April RM2800 ++
May - June RM2800++
*Rates may vary and are subject to changes
Royal Regency and Club Royal Regency
Transportation mode: Flight & Car
Address: 69-71 Rue Defrance 94300 Vincennes, France
Resort distance from the airport: 32 km
Contact Number: 01-49-57-12-00
Website: www.intervalworld.com
A perfect choice for business and leisure, The Royal Regency and Club Royal Regency is theperfect home for travellers to discover all that Paris has to offer for a peaceful Parisian retreat.The nearest Metro station is just a 15-minute walk, offering a hassle-free transport to the city’smany beautiful landmarks such as Eiffel tower, Disneyland Paris and many others.
The below table indicates the price comparison of accommodation booked via Agoda vsInterval International.
Agoda Based on current Gold Full Membership price RM20,000.00 as at 30 November 2018
Rate for 7 nights (18 -25 Mar 2019)
RM 532.00 per night*as at 11 December 2018
RM 667.00 (RM20,000 / 210 nights) x 7 nights
Total Accommodation Cost Saved RM 3,057.00
With savings of RM3,057.00, you may allocate the money to indulge in French cuisines atapproximately RM70.00 for (2) person in an average-priced restaurant. Assuming two (2) meals perday for seven (7) days would total to RM980.00 only. Hence you would still have a balance ofapproximately RM2,077.00 to spend on other items such as souvenirs, join a local tour or getyourself some nice outfit or perhaps a designer handbag.
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Note: All Entrance & Admission fee may vary and are subject to changes.Sources: https://www.visitacity.com/en/paris/attraction-by-type/all?attractionsCategory=top-attractions
https://www.france-hotel-guide.com/en/blog/must-see-paris/
Located on the Ile de la Cité, the Notre-Dame-de-Pariscathedral was for a long time the main symbol of Paris, beforethe Eiffel Tower was built. Among other things, it was thelocation of Napoleon Bonaparte’s coronation in 1804.Entrance Fee: Admission to Notre Dame is free, but visitors willneed tickets to enter the tower (RM 41) and the crypt (RM 29)Distance from resort: 30 mins / 11 km
The largest museum in the world and it’s the home for one ofthe finest art collections including the most famous paintedwomen - Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, Louvre Museum isdefinitely a must visit for art and history lovers.Entrance Fee: RM 72Distance from resort: 33 mins / 12 km
Known to be the largest triumphal arch in the world, Arc deTriomphe was commissioned by Napoléon to honour theGrande Armée during the Napoleonic Wars.Entrance Fee: RM 58Distance from resort: 34 mins / 14 km
Luxembourg Gardens offers ample of green space andrelaxation for many to unwind, admire the surrounding sceneryor just relax with a picnic. There’s also a variety of activitiesavailable to keep kids entertained.Entrance Fee: FreeDistance from resort: 32 mins / 12 km
Enjoy an exceptional stroll on the Seine in the heart of Paris asthis river cruise delivers spectacular and beautiful view of thismagnificent city bringing you to discover beautiful monumentsand bridges from the river.Entrance Fee: From RM 72Distance from resort: 40 mins / 15 km
Eiffel Tower
Notre-Dame-de-Paris
Louvre Museum
Luxembourg Gardens
River Cruise
Arc de Triomphe
This iconic Parisian landmark is the symbol of Paris and shouldn’t be missed when travelling to Paris. Visitors can go up to the top floor and enjoy a wonderful view of the city. Entrance Fee: RM 40 – RM 80Distance from resort: 35 mins / 15 km
Bon Appétit
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Whenever we travel to a new place, we are definitely looking forward to try its specialities. Paris is truly the gastronomic hub of France as it has a variety of different delicacies to
choose from. Don’t leave Paris before trying some of the listed delicacies below:-
Grilled steak served withfries with various optionalsauces to choose from. Italso comes with fresh saladand bread that makes thebest pairing here.
Duck is cooked in its ownfat until the meat is moistand tender. It is servedwith Pommes de TerreSarladaises (potatoes witha garlicky taste) sautéed induck fat.
A huge serving of whitecabbage cooked inRiesling (white grapes),duck or pork fat, herbs,garlic and topped withsausages and porkknuckle.
L'Acolyte de l'Insolite, [Trip Advisor Rating: 5/5]49 Rue de la Folie Méricourt, 75011 Paris30 minutes from the resort
Les Enfants Terribles (Halal Restaurant) [Trip Advisor Rating: 4.5/5]160, Boulevard de Charonne, 75020 Paris20 minutes from the resort
Le Jumeyrah (Halal Restaurant) [Trip Advisor Rating: 4/5]101 rue Saint Maur, 75011 Paris20 minutes from the resort
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Sources: https://www.businessinsider.com/foods-you-should-eat-in-france-2015-7https://sharedappetite.com/eat/the-top-10-foods-you-have-to-eat-in-paris/
https://www.thrillist.com/eat/paris/paris-best-food-50-things-to-eat-before-you-die#
Steak Frites
Macarons
Croque-monsieur
Duck Confit
The garlicky sauce in this dish is almost as delicious as the escargots themselves and it’s a hot selling delicacy in Paris.
Escargot
Choucoute
Croque-monsieur, an oozy and crisp grilled ham and cheese sandwich with velvety béchamel sauce oozing out all over which is a must try in Paris!
Colorful and delicately sweet flavoured, macarons are meringue-based sweets and it’s one of the most treasured French desserts to try.
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Source: https://www.france-hotel-guide.com/en/blog/gifts-from-paris/
Paris is a place where many of us would love to visit. From the fantastic architecture landmarks to the sidewalk cafes, there’s something for everyone. Here are some basic etiquette to adhere.
Say “Bonjour” wherever you go
Greet or say “Bonjour” to anyoneyou see at the hotel lobby,museum or ticket counters beforeyou start asking questions.
Be sure to ask people if theyspeak English
Most people in Paris don’t speakmuch English. Greet them and askif they do before asking for help.They will be happier to oblige.
Say Merci, Au Revoir!
When you're leaving therestaurants or shops, say"Merci, au revoir!" to whomeveris working there. It’s a form ofrespect.
Camera etiquette
Places such as churches andmuseums have a no-photo rule.Some will even require you not touse flash. Be polite and don'tmake people uncomfortable.
Bring a small gift
It is customary to bring somethingwhen you arrive at a Frenchperson's home as this isconsidered polite and meaningful
Souvenirs for home
BéretIt is a strong symbol of
Parisian artist and is a great gift to bring home from Paris.
Where to buy themBOUTIQUE PASSION France
42 avenue de la Grande Armée, 75017, Paris
(TripAdvisor Rating: 5/5)
ScarfA fashionable accessory that
comes with various materials and colours.
Where to buy themLONGCHAMPS SAINT-HONORE
404 rue Saint Honoré, 75001, Paris
(TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5)
Eiffel Tower ReplicaThe symbolic Paris monument of
as a memorable souvenir.
Where to buy themSOUVENIRS DE PARIS (4.5)
10 Rue de Bellechasse, 75007, Paris
(TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5)
Beauty ProductsFrench-made soaps and skincare products
are an affordable choice of souvenir.
Where to buy themPHARMACIE MONDE (4.5)75 rue Monge, 75005, Paris
(TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5)
Festival Highlights @ ParisParis Tropical Carnival
Held annually in July, this unique event brings light to the French Capital with thousands of Caribbeansingers, dancers and musicians wearing colourful costumes making their way through the streets of Paris on foot or aboard decorated floats.
Bastille Day
A day of French culture celebration that honours democracy and equality in France. Held annually on 14 of July, Bastille Day commemorates the storming
of the Bastille during the French Revolution.
Keep it down
People in Paris are generallyquieter in public. Be mindful whilespeaking in restaurants or anypublic area
Chocolate Among the greatest Parisian specialty and it comes in different shapes,forms and taste.
Where to buy themBOUTIQUE PATRICK ROGER (4.5)
108 Boulevard,Saint-Germain-des-prés, 75006, Paris
(TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5)
Season Hot Season Cool Season
Average Temperature
(°C) 30 - 35 21 - 29
Recommended Clothing Loose clothes, sun shades, sun lotion Clothing that will keep you warm. An umbrella
as a backup.
Weather & Season ForecastA complex cosmopolitan city with anamazing diversity of cultural influences
Known as the Land of Smiles, Bangkokoffers every visitor a reason to visit and toexplore this diversity city filled with culturaland historical attractions. Visit toweringskyscrapers, grab a ‘tuk tuk’ along thebustling Chinatown, admire the beauty ofthe temples or take a long-tail boat throughthe floating market.
Food is another highlight at this busymetropolis, as it offers delicious localcuisines that will spike your hungerhormones.
Manic Metropolis, BANGKOK04
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The weather in Bangkok is dominated by tropical hot climate with three main seasons: hot season (April - June), cool season (November - March) and rainy season (July - October). Best time to visit Bangkok is between November to March as these are the “cool months” where you will enjoy blue skies almost every day. During the evenings, the temperature can drop down to 210C.
Hottest period in Bangkok is between April to June, when temperature is as high as 350C. This is when (early April) the Thai New Year, Songkran takes place and the country embarks on a three - day water fight which is filled with fun and joy. Visitors travelling during this period should embark on boat cruises, rooftop bars and lounging by the pool side to escape the intense Bangkok heat.
Source: http://www.bangkok.com/weather.htm
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Recommended Resorts
The flight duration from Kuala Lumpur to
Bangkok takes approximately 2 hours and
10mins landing in Don Mueang
International Airport , which is one of two
international airports serving Greater
Bangkok, the other one being
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).
Air Asia would be the most recommended
airline for cost efficiency when travelling to
Bangkok. The table on the right the lowest
promo flight rate for round trip by monthly
period:
Travel Period (AirAsia) Flight Rates From
January - February RM 460++
March - April RM 440 ++
May - June RM 480++
*Rates may vary and are subject to changes
Anantara Vacation Club Bangkok Sathron
Transportation mode: Flight & Car
Address: 36 Narathiwart-Ratchanakarin Road Yannawa,
Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Resort distance from the airport: 31 km
Contact Number: 02-210-9000 Website: www.intervalworld.com
Situated in the heart of Bangkok, these resorts are moments away from the city’s business andshopping hubs, providing the perfect urban sanctuary for both leisure and business travellers.
Marriott Vacation Club® at The Empire Place©Transportation mode: Flight & Car
Address: 88 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road Sathorn Yannawa
Bangkok, 10120, Thailand
Resort distance from the airport: 45 km
Contact Number: 02-210-8000 Website: www.intervalworld.com
The below table indicates the price comparison of accommodation booked at Anantara Vacation Club Bangkok Sathron via Agoda vs Interval International.
Agoda Based on current Gold Full Membership price RM20,000.00 as at 30 November 2018
Rate for 7 nights (4-11 Mar 2019)
RM 325.00 per night*as at 11 December 2018
RM 667.00 (RM20,000 / 210 nights) x 7 nights
Total Comparison Difference RM 1,608.00
With additional savings at RM1,608.00, members can indulge in the local cuisine for RM60.00(2pax) and over a period of 7 nights, only approximately RM 420.00 is spent for three meals/day.The remaining balance of RM1,188.00 can be used for a massive shopping spree and souvenirs!
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Note: All Entrance & Admission fee is subject to changes.Sources: https://www.visitacity.com/en/bangkok/attraction-by-type/all-attractions
http://www.bangkok.com/most-popular-historical.htm https://www.tripadvisor.com.my/Attractions-g293916-Activities-Bangkok.html
With more than 1,500 boutiques stores and 40 eateries,Asiatique is a unique blend of a mall and a night bazaar whichoffers you an upscale riverside dining experience withentertainment.Distance from resorts: 20 mins / 8 km
Easily one of Bangkok’s most visually striking landmarks, theTemple of the Dawn (Wat Arun) towers over the Chao PhrayaRiver. Its colourfully decorated spires are the star feature and aMUST visit. Entrance Fee: RM 3.80Distance from resorts: 25 mins / 10 km
Probably the most celebrated landmark of Thailand, theGrand Palace is a site that you must visit. The Grand Palaceserved as a major royal residence until 1925 and it is nowused for ceremonial purposes only.Entrance Fee: RM 32Distance from resorts: 30 mins / 11 km
If you are looking for high end fashion brands, head to SiamParagon as its recognized as one of Asia’s most luxuriousshopping malls, welcoming no less than 150,000 local visitorsand international tourists each day.Distance from resorts: 22 mins / 10 km
Indulge in an exciting day as the park offers a variety of funfilled activities including driving through the of Africanwilderness setting and watching a variety of entertainment.Entrance Fee: From RM 127 onwards (Adult)
RM 114 onwards (Children)Distance from resorts: 50 mins / 42 km
Rod Fai, or commonly referred to as the ‘Train Market’, got itsname from the original Rod Fai night market located next to thetrain tracks on the outskirts of Bangkok. Besides goods, you canalso indulge in delicious local cuisines.Distance from resorts: 35 mins / 14 km
Asiatique
Wat Arun
The Grand Palace
Siam Paragon
Safari Worldand Marine Park
Ratchada Rot Fai
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Bangkok is widely recognized as a food city to satisfy the appetites of foodies around the world as it consists a balance of sour, sweet, salty, bitter and spicy with a variety of fresh herbs.
Foodies, don’t forget to treat your tummy with these delicious delicacies upon visiting Bangkok!
This mouth-watering papaya salad consists of various fresh ingredients including fruits, vegetables and sauces served to perfection on a single plate.
One of the main signature cuisine that defines the Thai flavour, Tom Yum Goong is a savory soup that ginger and lime flavors with spices and vegetables. A must try!
A dish that consists of rice stick noodles, shrimp, fried tofu, peanuts in Pad Thai sauce. A local favorite!
This deliciously refreshingdessert is made of glutinousrice with coconut milk andserved with fresh mangoes.
This famous dessert islovely to look as well asrefreshingly tasty withits sweetened coconutmilk served togetherwith water chestnut andjackfruit.
This dish is made with combination of exotic local ingredients and served with rice. A trip to Bangkok is incomplete without this!
Sara – Janes Restaurant [TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5]88 Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Rd, Khwaeng Yan Nawa, Khet Sathon, Krung Thep MahaNakhon 10120, Thailand10 minutes walk from the resorts
Kub Kao Kub Pla [TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5]617 Sukhumvit Rd, Khwaeng Khlong Tan Nuea, Khet Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand28 minutes walk from the resorts
Pakakrong 1987 [TripAdvisor Rating: 5/5]100 Narathiwas between soi 15 and 17, Narathiwas Rd., Sathorn, 10120, Thailand7 minutes walk from the resorts
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Sources: http://www.bangkok.com/food-top10.htm http://www.bangkok.com/most-popular-historical.htm
https://theculturetrip.com/asia/thailand/articles/the-21-best-thai-dishes-in-thailand/
Thai Green CurrySom Tum
Tom Yum Goong
Pad Thai
Kao Niew Mamuang
Thab Thim Krob
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Bangkok is booming with business and filled with hidden culture & charm. Here are some do’s and don’t to know about before you go.
Don't point your feetPointing your feet at someone, raising your feet higher than someone's head, or simply putting your feet on a desk or chair are considered extremely rude in Thailand.
Dress appropriatelyBe sure to dress appropriately especially to temples and royal palaces (clothes that cover shoulders and legs for both genders)
Don't touch headThe head is revered as themost sacred. this includesplayfully ruffling a child's hair.
Don't disrespect the kingNever disrespect the king or images of the king, this includes currency - his picture appears on the Thai Baht.
Don't throw thingsTossing an object / money insomeone's direction is rude.Take time to hand things topeople properly, face up,with your right hand.
Do take off your shoesIn many places shoes areleft outside even in hotelsand shops. When visitingtemples, please leave yourshoes outside.
Souvenirs for home
Thai Silk Authentic Thai silk is hand-
weaved and its a suitable gift for both man and women.
Where to buy themJIM THOMPSON OUTLETS
Thai SpicesBring back a piece of Thai
cuisine back home!
Where to buy themCHATUCHAK MARKET
Thai Coconut OilThis is a must buy due to it’s
numerous skin and hair benefits.
Where to buy themMARKETS & BEAUTY SHOPS
Thai Silver JewelleryYou can buy high quality silver jewellery at
good prices for your loved ones.
Where to buy themKHAO SAN ROAD & CHATUCHAK
MARKET
Thai HandicraftsHandicrafts like bags, placemats, coasters and
others are Bangkok’s most ideal souvenirs.
Where to buy themCHATUCHAK MARKET & BANGKOK
CHINATOWN
Source: https://www.france-hotel-guide.com/en/blog/gifts-from-paris/
Festival Highlights @ BangkokSongkran
It is Thailand’s biggest water festival, held around 12 April – 16 April annually. Crowds of people roam around the splashing water using water pistols and soaking anyone in the vicinity.
Loy Krathong
It is an ancient Indic festival that is held on 23 November 2019. In the evening, people gather around rivers, lakes and canals to pay respect to the goddess
of water by releasing beautiful lotus shaped rafts, candles, incense and flowers on the water.
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TRAVEL TRENDS Prediction 20194
2019 is set to be an exciting year for travel and the travel landscape is predicted to be shaped by a desire to acquire new skills and knowledge together with the
assistance of technological advancements.
Sustainable experience1 86% of travellers willing to spend time on activities that are environmental-friendly. Source: Booking.com
2 Most desired city to visit in 2019/2020 by Malaysians
Tokyo, Japan
Seoul, Korea
Paris, France
London, UK
Sydney, Australia
Travel with a PURPOSE4 Global travellers are keen on exploring life skills and acquiring knowledge even when travelling.
39%
31%
30%
CulturalExchanges
Volunteeringtrip
InternationalWorkPlacements
3
Source: Mastercard
What’s happening in 2019?Technology and Travel Consumers are interested in more practical tech applications like luggage tracking apps, self-driving transportation and etc.
Space TravelNASA will start construction its Lunar Space Station in 2019 (launching in 2022) and its predicted that 32% travellers would consider this experience.
Personalised itineraries41% travellers wants to switch to customised travel content via social media feeds rather than the generic travel guide.
Experiential travel Travellers are looking to spend more time and money on sporting events, shows and good food over shopping.
Weekend trips 53% travellers plan to take more weekend trips in 2019 due to expansion of flight routes and increased mobility.
Source: Booking.com
Source: Booking.com
Conscious Travelling More than 58% will not choose adestination if they feel it negativelyimpacts the people who live there.Source: Booking.com
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SGI Vacation Club (SGI VC) held the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 11 October 2018 atSwiss-Garden Hotel Kuala Lumpur. The event was well attended by approximately 80members.
The meeting was chaired by En. Hafizul of MTrustee Berhad. Mr Alwin Yike Chee Wah(Chairman of Liaison Committee), Mr Ivan Ting, Chief Executive Officer of SGI VC and Ms FanPui Chin, SGI VC Director, warmly welcomed all attendees. Mr Ivan Ting then proceeded tobrief the meeting on the involvement and initiatives taken by the organisation to furtherenhance members’ experience while vacationing with SGI VC.
SGI VC Annual General Meeting 2018
Among the others, the highlights were: -
Entitlement usage
Mr Ivan Ting informed the members that the Vacation Club has taken several measures toincrease the entitlement usage by encouraging members to enrol and deposit into IntervalInternational, room availability calendar that is sent out on a monthly basis, offers of lowseason promotion and performing proactive calls, SMS and emails to remind the members totravel.
Engagement with members
In order to build rapport and to further understand the needs of the members, SGI VC hastaken several initiatives to communicate and engage with members on a regular basis via theFocus Group Studies, regular luncheon dialogues with the Senior Management of SGI VC,SGI VC Facebook Page and Electronic Direct Mailer (EDM).
Property updates
Members were informed that the organisation has taken the initiatives to enhance severalproperties as follows: -
• 16 units Swiss-Villas bathroom renovation (which will be fully completed by January 2019)• Providing new facility - WIFI services in all vacation club units @ Swiss-Garden Residences
Kuala Lumpur• Renovation of 2 studio units @ Swiss-Court Holiday Apartments Damai Laut
Members actively following the agenda of the meeting
Happy faces…the event witnessed a great exchange of smiles among those who attended.
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Throughout 2018, SGI Vacation Club initiated a few engagement sessions with memberswhich was headed by the Chief Executive Officer, Mr Ivan Ting. The main objective of thislunch dialogue was to have an open dialogue with members and to strengthen tiesbetween the organisation and the members.
Engagement Session with CEO and Senior Management of SGI VC
During the fruitful dialogue session, members were given the opportunity to share theirvacation experience with SGI VC and to provide feedbacks and recommendations towardsthe betterment for the organisation in the future. These sessions enable the SGI VC teamto update the members on the progress of the club including its strategies to improve itsservice and quality.
From left to right: Mr Danny Lee Meng Huat, Ms Fan Pui Chin (General Manager), Mr Ivan Ting (Chief Executive Officer), & Ms Carmen Pang (AVP, Operations)
Mr Loh Woon Piaw & spouse with the Management team
Mr William Ng with the Management team Mr Quah Eng Hock with the Management team
Mr Abdul Ahmad bin Salleh with the Management team
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The Senior Management organised property visits with the Liaison Committee (LC)members to Swiss-Garden Beach Resort Kuantan, Swiss-Court Holiday Apartments DamaiLaut, Swiss-Villas and Swiss-Garden Beach Resort Damai Laut for the LC to inspect thecondition of the timeshare units.
Property Inspection by Liaison Committee Members
The visit to Swiss-Garden Beach Resort Kuantan took place on 30-31 July while the visit toSwiss-Villas and Swiss-Court Holiday Apartments Damai Laut took place on 13-14 August.The visits gave an opportunity to the LC members to view the newly upgraded facilities. TheLC members also gave valuable feedbacks on the condition of the timeshare unit. Theproperty visit was attended by Mr Alwin Yike (LC Chairman), Dato’ Abdul Halim (LCMember), Mr Low Siew Gee (LC Member), Mr Ivan Ting (CEO, SGI VC), Ms Fan Pui Chin(General Manager, SGI VC), Ms Carmen Pang (Assistant Vice President, Operations) andMr Zulkefli (Apartment Manager, Swiss-Court Holiday Apartments Damai Laut).
Liaison Committee members inspecting a unit in Swiss-Villas alongside some members of the Management
Liaison Committee members having a discussion with Mr Ivan Ting and Ms Fan Pui Chin at Swiss-Court Holiday Apartments, Damai Laut
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SGI Vacation Club organised another Interval International (II) workshop and it was held atSwiss-Garden Residences Kuala Lumpur on 13 October 2018. This is the fourth workshoporganised by SGI VC. The workshop that was facilitated by II representatives, Mr KurtHughto and Ms Wong Sow Leng brought together 110 members for both morning andafternoon session. The objective of the workshop was to enhance members’ knowledge onII and to furnish members with the latest updates and new features of the II membership.
Among the updates, Mr Kurt briefed members of the latest and exciting new feature. TheHotel Exchange Program (HEP). This HEP offers Interval Gold and Interval Platinummembers to exchange their nights to 55,000 more hotels worldwide through a partnershipwith Expedia. This is in addition to over 3,000 locations currently available for exchange withII. For details, members are advised to call II at 1 800 801244.
Interval International Workshop
Focus Group Sessions with MembersIn its continuous effort to get valuable feedback from its members, SGI Vacation Club heldseveral focus group sessions with different groups of members. One of these sessions washeld on 19 September 2018 and members were treated to a scrumptious lunch at SinoScene, Swiss-Garden Residences Kuala Lumpur.
SGI VC members actively engaging in the workshop
Sitting down (from left): Mr & Mrs Lim Yoke Fai, Mr Chong Tian Fook, Mr & Mrs Phang Yong Hiong, Mr & Mrs Jaffeory Shang. Standing up (from left): Ms Nurul Nadiah (Assistant Manager, Member Services),
Ms Carmen Pang (AVP, Operations), Ms Han Heng Guan, Mr Astley Ng (Executive, Member Services)
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SGI Vacation Club continues its efforts in engaging and strengthening the relationshipbetween employees and the Management. It held its first friendly bowling tournament on 15August 2018. This event was held at Ampang Superbowl @ Berjaya Times Square and wasparticipated by 60 bowlers comprising of 15 teams.
SGI VC’s Friendly Bowling Tournament 2018
The event ended with happy faces from all winners and employees had a great timebonding with each other. The Organising Chairman, Ms Fan Pui Chin, extended herdeepest thanks to all employees for making the bowling event a resounding success.
Striving together as a team
All the participants of the SGI VC’s Friendly Bowling Tournament 2018
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Those days, most people would expect a weekend get-away or team-building or maybethe occasional lunch outing. But things are different these days as most work placeindulge in active activity for the benefit of the employees and the organisation’s well-being.
Getting Fit @ SGI Vacation Club
In SGI VC, our employees are fun and energetic as they get themselves all geared up byparticipating in the organisation’s weekly cardio-centric Zumba that provides bettermentfor the mind, soul and body. The objective of this highly energetic session is to stayhealthy, foster ties and to build good rapport with all employees in the organisation.
So, let’s Zumba SGI VC - ians !
One for the album… SGI Vacation Club CEO, Mr Ivan Ting (in blue) posing with the employees after the Zumba session
There are shortcuts to happiness, Zumba dance is one of them
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At SGI Vacation Club, we strongly believe that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is away by which we fill our roles and responsibilities towards our community by contributingand giving back to our society, improving living conditions and to build a sustainable &better community over time. Themed “Once Upon a Chef with SGI VC”, SGI VCcollaborated with Developing Youth Organisation (D.Y.O), a non-governmentalorganisation that focuses on youth development, organised a cooking session atPersatuan Rumah Sayangan Cheras and HiichiiKok Foundation, a home to 15underprivileged children on 11 November 2018 and 24 November 2018 respectivelywhich was funded by OSK Foundation.
Once Upon A Chef with SGI VC
As the cooking session were carried out together with the children, everyone took part inthe process of preparing tasty and scrumptious western cuisines. The children tookcharge of the kitchen by learning how to prepare quality food while monitored and guidedby SGI VC employees. The objective of these CSR initiatives are to brighten the lives ofthese children by promoting positives values and empowering them to excel further. Thevisit also allowed us an opportunity to understand the needs of these children by providingmeasures of comfort, care and improvement to these children’s wellbeing.
Happy faces at Persatuan Rumah Sayangan Cheras
The volunteers had a great time at Hiichiikok Foundation
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In our continuous effort to serve and provide members with quality accommodations,SGI Vacation Club has recently renovated 2 Studio units in Swiss-Court HolidayApartments and upgraded the lavatories at all units in Swiss-Villas.
Latest Upgrade @ Swiss-Villas & Swiss-Court Holiday Apartments
Launch of Scheme 2 Timeshare Membership
The launch of our Scheme 2 Membership in December 2018 was indeed a new milestonefor our Vacation Club. SGI Vacation Club Melaka is now one of the home-based propertyfor Scheme 2. With the launch of the new product, SGI VC will no longer sell the existingproducts from Scheme 1 Membership. Please contact our Member Services team if youor your friends are interested with our Scheme 2 Membership.
Newly upgraded lavatory at Swiss-Villas
Newly renovated studio unit at Swiss-Court Holiday Apartments
Studio unit at Swiss-Court Holiday Apartments before renovation
Lavatory at Swiss-Villasbefore renovation
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Held in Malaysia’s largest Agro tourism park – theMalaysian Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS), the fairwas held from 27 July – 29 July 2018 attracted travelenthusiasts looking for affordable domestic andinternational travel packages. Some of the participatingexhibitors include travel agents, state tourism offices, themepark, airlines, hotels, vacation club and other tourismproduct vendors.
The 3-day fair was hyped with lucky draws, an indoorcarnival area for children and the sampling of local andinternational cuisines from food trucks. The response andtake up rate for SGI VC products was very positive.
Sales team deployed at the Matta Fair Selangor 2018
SGI VC Booth at the Matta Fair Selangor 2018
In the midst of discussion
SGI Vacation Club participated in the first edition of MATTA Fair Selangor 2018 which wasorganised by the Malaysian Association of Tours and Travel Agents Selangor Chapter (MATTASelangor).
MATTA Fair Selangor 2018
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Are you having issues with your monthly instalment payment? Busy schedule? Too many commitments to look after? The solution is Advanced Payment.
An advanced payment, or simply an advance, is the part of a contractually due sum that is paid or received in advance for goods or services. Advanced payments are typically
recorded as prepaid expenses by the payer and recorded as assets on the balance sheet.
Advanced Payment Rewards
Additional Accommodation worth up to RM 5000++
Premium Gifts from SGI Vacation Club
Exclusive Breakfast Vouchers
on EzyPayment Scheme
Cheaper Convenient &Hassle-Free
Rewarding
Need further information? Reach out to us
03 - 2788 6633 [email protected]
Benefits of Advanced Payment
What is Advanced Payment?
*Terms and Conditions Apply.
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Embarking on a group trip is always full with fun and adventure. They can become themost amazing trip of our lives where we bond with our travel companions and reminisceabout the trip for years down the road. However, there a few important elements to keepin mind to ensure everyone has a relaxing trip.
Communication
Before you kick start to plan the trip, discuss and communicate with the members of your travel group in order for you to understand their needs and vice versa. This to ensure a smooth trip.
Agree on a budget
Setting a budget for a group trip can be challenging at times as people would have different ideas about how much money they are willing to spend. As a group, you should agree on a budget for the trip and adhere to it.
Pre- Plan Some Activities
Consider looking at some of the main things you would like to do in your chosen destination. If there are tours that you are interested, you may want to look up for discounts, at times tour group might give you a discount if you’re traveling a group.
Split up
At times, not everyone in your group has the same interest or wants to be glued together all the time. Some might have different activities they wish to do. Come to consensus or split up so that everyone can do what they like to do.
Be easy going
There can be misunderstanding and arguments while travelling in a group, be sure to always keep calm and accommodate your friends from time to time to ensure your travel is comforting.
Top 5 Tips: Group Travelling
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My husband and I had such a great memorable precious and
rejuvenating7 nights stay at Swiss-Garden.
Nicole Kam Chooi SoonDestination: Swiss-Garden Residences, Kuala Lumpur
Wish to come here again and again
and again. Great job guys.
Azimah binti Abdul Aziz Destination: Swiss-
Garden Beach Resort, Damai Laut
Damai Laut is one of the best places we have ever
been. A wonderful moment with my hubby.
Azlinda binti Azzudin Destination: Swiss-Court
Holiday Apartments, Damai Laut
Awesome, fun and worth it are the words that can
describe our experience here at Damai Laut Beach Resort.
Farusliza binti Md Fadzil Destination: Swiss-Garden Beach Resort, Damai Laut
The visit was really meaningful and surely, we will come again with the
others.
Nurul Huda binti Bahuddin Destination: Swiss-Garden Beach Resort, Damai Laut
The hotel is a very nice place and calm. This
makes our lovely holidays really memorable.
Abd Wahab bin OthmanDestination: SGI
Vacation Club Melaka
One Word - AWESOME. Will definitely come back again for holidays in Damai Laut. Thank
you so much for the hospitality provided.
Allysha Natasha Woo Destination: Swiss-Garden Beach Resort,
Damai Laut
Together, we appreciate sunrise at the beach, enjoy delicious food in Kuantan, and above all,
enjoy the comfort and homely atmosphere of the resort all these made this family vacation warm
and memorable!
Pung Yee TingDestination: Swiss-Garden Residences,
Kuala Lumpur
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Doing it her way……
Assistant Vice President (Operations), CarmenPang Chen Yee, who is responsible to managethe entire operations and Member Services unitin SGI Vacation Club, is a veritable traveller thattravels at least 2 times a year with herfamily/friends. Travelling is her life and that is thebest way to sum up Carmen Pang. Travellingliberates your body, soul and mind from yourdistractions and stress thus creating a positiveimpact in one’s lives.
Carmen shares with members on her travelexperiences and some important elements ofher professional journey at SGI Vacation Club.
TRIVIA♥ Jackey Cheung is her favourite singer
♥ Loves fixing LEGOS & joining marathons
♥ Admires Tom Cruise & Angelina Jolie
♥ Her favourite vacation spot is Bhutan
Describe yourself in 3 words?Outgoing, friendly and a good listener
When did your passion for travel start? Since 1996 when I first travelled with my family to Taiwan.
What do you do when travelling feels repetitive? How do you keep each destination exciting?Being a foodie is an added advantage for me. Whenever I feel travel starts to feel repetitive, I will start hunting and exploring different cuisines in that particular destination I visit.
To travel is to take a journey into yourself – Danny Kaye
Location: Pigeon Holes in the caves,Turkey
BhutanTurkey
The Wonderluster: Carmen Pang
How many countries have you visited?Approximately 20 countries.
Have you ever come face to face with some extra-ordinary experience while travelling? What was it?The hot - air balloon in Cappadocia, Turkey is the most magical place on earth and it’s a memorable expe-rience that will last for life time. The hot - air balloon that gently drift over and between fairy chimneys, pigeon houses and unique rock formation will leave you speechless and you will be mesmerised with its beauty. It’s simply breath-taking!
BhutanBhutan
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Where would you revisit?The hot - air balloon in Cappadocia,Turkey. It’s a memorable experiencethat will last for life time. The hot - airballoon that gently drift over andbetween fairy chimneys, pigeon housesand unique rock formation will leaveyou speechless and you will bemesmerised with its beauty. It’s simplybreath-taking!
Your biggest challenge in thehospitality industry?The hospitality industry is a fast-pacedindustry and staying ahead of the curvecan be challenging. As the industrygrows rapidly, keeping abreast with thelatest trend or having to incorporatesome new trend and policy is indeed arequirement for someone like me to stayrelevant.
Best compliment you have received about yourjob?It takes as little as one word. One word from acolleague or your superior can make you feel like achamp. Some of the best compliments I’ve receivedincludes my efficiency of delivering my task on a giventime and being a good leader in guiding mysubordinates to strive harder.
What are two best advises you willprovide to your colleagues toachieve greater heights in theindustry?♥ Love your job. You need to be
passionate about your job. When youlove your job, you will producequality end result which will furtherspur your career journey in anyorganisation.
♥ Open communication is oneimportant and valuable element touphold when dealing with yourcolleagues. Be open to each other,build and earn trust whilstmaintaining your professional level atall times.
What are your major strengths towards the successof your professional journey at SGI Vacation Club?My greatest strength is my listening ability. I pay extraattention to what I’m being told including detailedinformation relating to work hence I stay focused at alltimes. My listening skills was able to effectively motivateall my colleagues, which is also a big part of my task asthe head of department.
SGI Vacation Club BerhadS-7-01 & S-7-02, Swiss-Garden Residences,No. 2A, Jalan Galloway,50150 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Sales Offices :Kuala Lumpur I Sungai Petani I Kuantan I Johor Bahru Resorts / Hotels :Kuala Lumpur I Perak I Melaka I Pahang
Tel : (603) 2788 6688Fax : (603) 2788 6689Web : www.sgivacationclub.comFB : www.facebook.com/sgivacationclub
where joy, time & love is shares...
LIAISON COMMITTEEThe following members were elected as SGI VC Liaison Committee at the Annual General Meeting
held on 11th October 2018 at Swiss-Garden Residences Kuala Lumpur. The Liaison Committee
comprises a specified number of representatives of the timeshare purchasers and has the
responsibility to advise the Trustee with regard to upholding the agreements in the Trust Deed by
the Operator / Developer and to receive feedback about the Accommodation Units or the Operator.
Please feel free to contact the following Liaison Committee:
Alwin Yike Chee Wah (Liaison Committee Chairman)Email: [email protected]
Dato Abdul Halim Bin AhmadEmail: [email protected]
Effendy bin AbdullahEmail: [email protected]
Abd Ahmad bin SallehEmail: [email protected]
(Co. No. 391578-V)
