In the northeastern United States the summer seasonal rental has been popular since early settlers wished to escape the congested trading posts (now major cities) for the hills and beaches during the summer months. In the 1955 hit movie The Seven Year Itch the wife and kids head to the country for the summer while the husband stays behind in the city and is tempted by his new neighbor, Marilyn Monroe.

While we cannot offer a situation to The Seven Year Itch we do have two excellent summer season rental opportunities to consider, one in East Hampton, New York, the beach community known worldwide. The other, a true farmhouse in the hills of Bucks County, Pennsylvania renovated to meet the demands of the luxury client.

East Hampton is considered the summer playground for New Yorkers and others worldwide who wish to “see and be seen.”  In the charming enclave of East Hampton it is not uncommon to see Steven Spielberg and family playing in the sand at Main Beach or Sir Paul McCartney dining at Nick and Toni’s. The community of East Hampton is an idyllic setting beautiful beaches, serene woodlands, a charming town center (with retailers rivaling most major cities) yet all ensconced in a laid-back atmosphere of summer relaxation and fun.

Our Whale Rock House is East Hampton personified. Redesigned as a modernist masterpiece, Whale Rock designed by Eisner Design pays homage to the modern architects who make East Hampton their proving grounds from the late 1960’s to today. Houses designed by Richard Meier, Charles Gwathmey, Robert Venturi, Norman Jaffe and others transformed the rolling landscape of potato fields and sand dunes into an agglomeration of the finest modernist homes within one community.

Whale Rock is situated on a private lot in the woods of East Hampton. Just minutes from the center of town and ocean beaches, yet offering privacy and serenity not usually found in the Hamptons. With three bedrooms, an expansive living room, dining area, gourmet kitchen, all on one level, multi-generation families will be most comfortable. The modernist interior is based on function yet unlike many modernist structures exudes a sense of welcoming and renewal.

As the lazy days of summer demand guests enjoy the outdoors, Whale Rock is designed to transition between the indoors and outdoors. The private lot surrounded my mature woodlands is literally paparazzi proof. The in ground heated pool is welcoming for morning laps or an evening dip. The patio area, perfect for dining al-fresco. If your summer plans include East Hampton, Whale Rock is a home to consider.

Perfect for a Couple, Small Family or Group of Friends

What do Cancun, South Padre Island, Florida and Breckenridge have in common? Well, besides the need for SPF 30 sun-block, all are hot spring break destinations. OK, Breckenridge may not have tropical temperatures, but we guarantee as a Spring Break destination, it is hot, Hot, HOT.

Located just 90 minutes from Denver International Airport, Breckenridge has become the poster-child for “the cool ski resort” in the Rocky Mountain West. The 4 mountains of the Breckenridge resort guarantee unlimited skiing and snowboarding no matter your ability. From gentle glade trails to half-pipes and moguls the size of a Smart Car, it can be found in Breckenridge. As we approach President’s Weekend, this is the unofficial start of Spring Break with warmer, sunnier days intermixed with major snow dumps insuring powder days on the slopes. Take note, March is the snowiest month in Breckenridge.

Days on the slopes usually end with traditional après-ski in the hot tub with the warm waters massaging the muscles after a challenging day and prior to heading out to indulge in the nightlife Breckenridge is famous for. The historic mining town has been transformed into a world-class destination with a diversity of shops, restaurants, galleries and other “non-mountain” pursuits. Dining can be fast-food or the luxury of a chef’s tasting menu, all within walking distance. Non-skiers, take a ½ day and visit a spa or enjoy morning coffee with a walking tour of the historic town. For shoppers, the Silverthorne Factory Outlets are just a few minutes north.

We understand many vacation rentals are oriented towards larger families and groups. Thus, it is rare when we can offer a one-bedroom flat as a vacation rental in Breckenridge meeting the deluxe standards The Society is known for.

In real estate, the three “L’s” are Location, Location and Location and this vacation has all three. Seriously, our flat is literally just steps from historic Main Street as well as the Quicksilver High-Speed Lift with immediate access to the slopes.

The flat, built within the last decade offers what we consider “Ski Chalet Light”. Within its 785 SF, the flat is furnished with an emphasis on deluxe comfortable luxury. Enjoy the gas fireplace while watching the large flat screen (with a few DVD’s and popcorn, the most comfortable theater in town). The bedroom has a King Bed, a rarity in many mountain flats and its own flat screen. The living room sofa converts to a deluxe queen bed. In the kitchen and bathroom, there has been liberal use of custom granite and tile to exemplify the luxury appointments of the flat.

As the vast expanse of the United States is shivering under the mistletoe, you still have the option of spending Christmas Week in Cabo San Lucas. We admit, the Christmas lights on the palm trees may be unique. However, we guarantee, the warm sand of the beach, the waves of the Pacific, the buckets of Corona, the fresh “catch of the day”. You have the visual in your mind and we have the choices of vacation residences for you to consider, all available during Christmas Week (as of distribution).

Cabo for Christmas:

• Casa Bella - 23% off, Just $1,500/night
• Casa Stamm - 21% off, Just $950/night
• Villa Las Palmas -$3,600/night

At The Society, we have an excellent selection of vacation rentals in New York City. From historical lower Manhattan to the always hopping Columbus Circle area, your New York City vacation does not have to be spent in a cramped hotel room. When in NYC, may we suggest:

1. 5th Avenue Snowflake: One of the most enduring holiday sights, the snowflake suspended over the intersection of 5th Avenue and 57th Street. Take in the 4 corners of commerce including Tiffany (SEC), Bulgari (SWC), Van Cleef & Arpels/Bergdorf’s (NWC) and Louis Vuitton (NEC). A luxury shoppers paradise.
2. Macy’s: While Herald Square is crowded, watch The Miracle on 34th Street and then head to Macy’s where Santa is in residence from the day after Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve.
3. 5th Avenue: On Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving), 5th Avenue through Midtown is closed to cars. Enjoy the expansive Avenue with a 1000’s of other shoppers. Stop at Prime Burger (51th Street between Madison & Fifth, across from St. Patrick’s Cathedral for an old-time lunch experience)
4. The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center: no matter your age, always enjoyable.
5. Radio City Rockettes: 75+ years of tradition, the Christmas Spectacular must be seen at least once. In addition to the show, check out the historical art-deco theater.
6. Time Warner Center at Columbus Circle: so you miss the mall, here you go - granted it’s vertical. Drop some serious coin at Tourneau on a new wach or Thomas Pink for British shirtings. On a budget, lunch at Whole Foods on the Lower Level. Looking for a civilized lunch, consider Landmark, upscale dining, family friendly, a place to park the strollers and carriages.
7. Rockefeller Center: In addition to the tree, there’s a small skating rink. While the crowds can be maddening, go below the promenade and enjoy a hot cocoa indoors while watching the skaters glide by and the tree above. Truly above it all, visit the Top of the Rock. For a true skate experience, consider Wollman Rink in Central Park with the midtown skyline as a backdrop.
8. Serendipity3: Charming generations for years with their signature Frozen Hot Chocolate. Rent the movie with the same name starring Kate Beckinsale and John Cusak.
9. Lighting of the Menorah: at Grand Army Plaza in front of The Plaza Hotel. Want to warm up, head downstairs at the Plaza, a luxury shopping area hidden from the crowds above. For the Apple fan, hit the Apple Store across the street, open 24/7.

One of the many advantages of a vacation rental during the December holidays is the opportunity to make your lodging “personal and memorable”. From the Rocky Mountain West to the beaches of Mexico, Florida and the Caribbean, celebrating the holidays infused with generations of tradition (or make some new ones) in your vacation residence can provide memories to last a lifetime. We interviewed a few of our partners who offered some ideas:

Ski Holiday: A mountain vacation in the mountains during December guarantees a “White Christmas”. Our mountain managers suggest the following:

Holiday Décor: Request a Christmas Tree. The tree can be delivered and decorated prior to arrival. To keep the family traditions, consider shipping a small selection of ornaments to the management company prior to your trip. When you arrive, you and your family can place the “finishing touches” on the tree. Few destinations during the holidays rival our Ski Safari Chalet in Beaver Creek, CO. Families will enjoy the spacious 4 bedrooms which sleeps 10 in luxury. Even though true ski-in/out, we suggest apres-ski in the village with a hot cocoa and gelato just a short walk from the chalet.

Gifts: Consider having your gifts shipped to your vacation home rental. Imagine opening gifts by the fireplace watching the falling snow and the twinkling lights of the town. Or, if you desire a forested setting with evergreen trees covered in snow, consider our 3 bedroom condo in West Vail which accommodates 14, just minutes from the slopes yet set within a beautiful valley of mature aspens and evergreen trees, the finest mountain setting for the holidays and beyond.When its time to return home, have the larger gifts shipped.

Skis/Boards: Anyone on your gift list receiving new skis, boots or boards? If yes, ask the managing agent which retailer they prefer and order the equipment to be delivered to the vacation residence. Concerning boots, be sure to use a reputable retailer with a boot-fitting specialist. Bows and gift-wrapping are optional.

Christmas Dinner: The finest restaurants will be booked for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the weekend that follows. If you do not wish to cook, consider a private caterer or chef. Full formal meals can be delivered and re-heated or prepared on-site and professionally served, the choice is yours. Having a holiday party, have TheSociety.com assist you in securing a Butler for your event.

-Harnessing the power of a multi-faceted sales and marketing program  to assist upscale resort clients wishing to target the affluent demographic concerning rental, sales and management opportunities-

DENVER, CO -October 22, 2009 - The Society and La Sarenne Luxury Properties today announced the debut of their newest online marketing opportunity, The Diamond Affinity Program, a turnkey luxury resort marketing and sales platform.

“The Diamond Affinity Program has been designed and executed to overcome a major void in how resorts market and sell their products.” said Bruce Cuthbertson, partner with La Sarenne Luxury Properties, a California-based resort development firm adding, “The present economic malaise has impacted many resorts which have relied on antiquated sales and marketing tactics to achieve their goals. The Diamond Affinity program is a whole new sales and marketing platform designed for today, tomorrow and the future. We did not replace the tools in the toolbox, we designed a whole new container, inside and out.”

The Diamond Affinity Program is an all-in-one resort sales and marketing package. Using a multi-pronged approach, The Diamond Affinity Program harnesses the power of:

• Online Marketing: targeting the affluent and luxury lifestyle audience.
• CRM Tracking: including initial contact to close concierge assistance.
• VIP Events: in select markets to provide prospective clients in-person introductions.
• Public Relations: focused on the lifestyle, consumer and business marketplace.  

“No other entity in the industry has brought together the expansive marketing relationships, leveraged media purchases and targeted demographics combined to deliver not only large quantities of highly qualified prospects but exceeding close-rates above the industry standard,” said Michael McFadden, co-founder of The Society, a Colorado-based marketing firm representing hospitality and vacation oriented companies. McFadden added, “The economy has dictated the call for new ways to market luxury resorts and the Diamond Affinity program beckons that call.”

The Society and La Sarenne came together to leverage their resources to create the Diamond Affinity Program. “It just made sense to create this program jointly, taking advantage of our complimentary services to best serve the resort client desiring to turn lookers into bookers and visitors into owners.” said Cuthbertson.

###

Contact: Bruce Cuthbertson   
La Sarenne Luxury Properties, LLC  
1-877-336-3942     
Bruce@LaSarenne.com    

Contact: Michael McFadden
The Society
1-866-789-8222 X1
Mike@TheSociety.com

While The Endless Summer profiled surfers in search of the perfect wave, the term has been used to describe the climate of Southern California. No matter the season, we strongly suggest a visit to Laguna Beach where little changed since The Endless Summer was released to movie theaters in the 1960s.

Laguna Beach is truly a unique enclave within greater southern California. The town is literally nestled between the Pacific Ocean to the west and majestic canyons to the east. Whatever your interest; from the beach (glorious) to the arts (a true artist’s colony) to nature (hikes and nature paths) to dining (from beachfront casual to over-the top gourmand), Laguna Beach has options for everyone.

One of our partners, Best Laguna Vacations offers, in our professional opinion the best selection of beach villas and cottages available in Laguna Beach. Yet unlike other vacation spots where one comments “ok, now what?” after just a few days, Laguna is best experienced for one week or more. Our partners at Best Laguna Vacations are enticing clients of The Society to “stay a little longer” by offering:

• 5% off the second week of rental

• 10% off the third week” on a luxury selection cottages on oceanfront Cress Street including:

A 2 bedroom with an ocean view deck, perfect for wine at sunset:
http://thesociety.com/vacation+rental/23815

A 3 bedroom so close to the ocean, the waves will lull you to sleep. http://thesociety.com/vacation+rental/23817

It has been a tradition of Ski Magazine to list their top ski resorts annually. The ranking criteria consider many variations from terrain to nightlife to readership ratings. Last week we provided “opening dates” for a few resorts, this week, the top 30. Below is the list with a few comments added by our “winter sports specialists” here at The Society.com:

1. Deer Valley, Utah – no snowboarders allowed on mountain & limited # of passes sold per day.
2. Whistler Blackcomb, B.C. –site of the 2010 Winter Olympics
3. Vail, Colorado – largest single mountain resort in North America & legendary back bowls
4. Park City, Utah – consider the Silver Passport lift pass
5. Beaver Creek, Colorado – where locals escape Vail weekend crowds
6. Snowmass, Colorado – new base area for 2009/2010
7. Sun Valley, Idaho – say hello to Gov. Arnold of California
8. Squaw Valley, California – former Winter Olympics venue
9. Mammoth, California – option for the S. California resident
10. Steamboat, Colorado – western family resort, challenging trees and powder
11. Telluride, Colorado –hidden gem, culinary tour de force
12. Jackson Hole, Wyoming – not for the faint of heart
13. Heavenly, California – cross the border and gamble into the morning
14. Aspen Mountain, Colorado –the original “glamour gulch”
15. Breckenridge, Colorado – spring break central for colleges and universities
16. Northstar-at-Tahoe, California – small scale, big challenges
17. Aspen Highlands, Colorado – expert terrain and a Ritz-Carlton
18. Copper Mountain, Colorado – segregated terrain, bowls can challenge
19. Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana – never a crowd
20. The Canyons, Utah – see #4, Silver Passport program
21. Keystone, Colorado – a true resort with “charging privileges”
22. Big Sky, Montana – limited nightlife, to exhausted from skiing all day
23. Winter Park, Colorado – drop in next door at Mary Jane
24. Crested Butte, Colorado – high-altitude skiing/boarding
25. Snowbird, Utah – for strong intermediates and experts
26. Solitude, Utah – small family-oriented enclave
27. Taos, New Mexico – from valley heat to snowcapped peaks in 30 minutes
28. Alta, Utah – skiing as it was 40 years ago
29. Snow Basin, Utah – rustic chic
30. Alpine Meadows, California – Tahoe’s hidden gem

We at TheSociety.com are proud to announce one of our peers in the luxury travel industry Paradizo.com, is a sponsor for the Luxury Travel Forum to be held in Barcelona Spain from October 6th to 8th, 2009 in tandem with the 2009 Travel Convention organized by ABTA, The Travel Association.

The Luxury Travel Forum is an integral part of The Travel Convention. The forum is designed to facilitate, showcase and network providers of luxury travel products including but not limited to airlines, hotels, operators, suppliers, as well as agents who either specialize or have an interest in the luxury travel market, including those wanting to move in to this burgeoning market. Luxury Travel Forum delegates will have the opportunity to attend the majority of The Travel Convention’s sessions, as well as the official social activities and parties.

On the afternoon of Wednesday October 7, Luxury Travel Forum delegates will be able to do business, speed-dating style, in the Luxury Travel Forum Showcase.

Dedicated Luxury Travel Sessions will be co-hosted by Broadcaster & Journalist Jeremy Vine, together with the Editor of Telegraph Travel and Ultratravel, Graham Boynton. Sessions include:

• Charting A New Course Through The Turbulent Travel Luxury Market?
• Gaining an Edge in the Luxury Travel Market.
• Generational Segmentation of the Luxury Travel Market.

For more information on the Luxury Travel Forum visit: www.thetravelconvention.com/luxurytravelforum/index.php.

Paradizo is designed to provide a new advertising channel for Luxury Travel companies looking to reach the affluent market and promote their luxury vacation rentals, yacht charters, residence and destination clubs, private jet travels or concierge services.

Paradizo, a new online luxury travel & lifestyle marketplace and directory, is inviting premier luxury travel companies to join its exclusive portal. Paradizo is a travel technology corporation that connects consumers to information sources available across the Web including luxury vacation rentals, private islands, yacht charters, luxury resorts, private aviation, concierge services and lifestyle managers.

Ollivier Jacq, Founder of Paradizo.com said “we are very excited to support the First Luxury Travel Forum to be help in Barcelona, where our company is based. We look forward to meeting other luxury travel delegates and welcome them to our beautiful city.”

Costa Rica has enjoyed much popularity due to its diversity of vacation opportunities from active to passive and everything in between. A favorite destination of many vacationers is the Pacific Coast at Manuel Antonio. The area is well known for Manuel Antonio National Park, which is the smallest of the nation’s national parks, yet one of the most popular due to the preservation of one of the most beautiful and bio-diverse areas in Costa Rica and the world.

The uniqueness of the area is the combination of lush rain forests, stunning beaches (considered the finest in the country) and living coral reefs (excellent for snorkeling). For eco-tourists, we suggest the trail around Punta Catedral with its spectacular views (and a visit to Cathedral Point which used to be an island now connected via a narrow land bridge). For the beach enthusiasts, Playa Manuel Antonio is not to be missed. It’s a ½ mile white sand crescent with a mix of dense forests and a beautiful cove.

If considering a visit to Manuel Antonio National Park and the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, may we suggest a private luxury villa within the gated community of Tulemar Gardens, a 33 acre development, intimate yet providing the amenities and services of a luxury resort.

Buena Vista Luxury Villas within Tulemar Gardens slopes down to the signature sandy beach with the most gorgeous sunsets year round. Each villa comes with daily maid service and within the Tulemar Gardens community is a restaurant, bar service and a beautiful Cliffside pool.

All the villas (from Jr. Suite to 3 Bedrooms) are fully air-conditioned, have lovely outdoor space and panoramic views of the rain forests and the Pacific Ocean. For families or a group of friends, we suggest the 3 Bedroom Villa, a truly luxury offering from state of the art electronics to a chef’s kitchen to three large bedrooms and beautiful common areas.

Activities in the area include: Park Tours (a must do), sport fishing, river rafting, jet skiing, horseback riding, surfing, mountain biking, 4-wheeling, dolphin watching and spa. Of course, this is an excellent destination for destination weddings and romantic honeymoons.