Press Release
December 19, 2001
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) expects over 3,600 timeshare professionals
to attend the 2002 International Resort Development Convention and Exposition "Expedition 2002: Beyond Boundaries"
from April 13 to 16 at Bally's/Paris Las Vegas. The theme, "Expedition 2002: Beyond Boundaries," trumpets
ARDA's determination to chart a route to success for the timeshare industry. ARDA's goals during the 2002 Convention
are to provide resources and information to help timeshare professionals conquer industry challenges - be they
geographic boundaries, economic conditions, consumer confidence issues, or legal and regulatory actions.
Perhaps the most valuable benefit of the ARDA Convention is the opportunity to network. In 2001, ARDA debuted the
highly successful "Town Square" format, which centralized key Convention activities in a single location.
Now, in 2002 the Town Square concept will be further developed and expanded. Located in the Paris Las Vegas Hotel's
85,000 square foot Paris Ballroom, the Town Square will host over 340 exhibit booths, debates on hot timeshare
topics, a broadcast booth and live telecasts of "ARDA-TV," and food and seating areas for attendees looking
to take a break. In addition to the Town Square, ARDA will offer two separate VIP lounges where Trustees and Chairman's
League members can conduct business.
There will also be no shortage of events to keep attendees busy. Events kick off on Friday, April 12, with a charitable
golf tournament with all proceeds to benefit the ARDA International Foundation. Following the tournament at Stallion
Mountain Country Club, the title sponsor of the event, RCI, is also putting on a Dinner and Celebration that evening
for all Convention attendees.
Saturday, April 13, will feature two of ARDA's most popular programs -- "Principles of Resort Timesharing,"
which provides an overview of the industry for the newcomer; and "Global Marketplace," which takes an
in-depth look at the international aspects of timeshare. In 2002, "Global Marketplace" will include three
different segments: a case study of industry pioneer Hapimag from 1963 to the present, a look at the impact of
timeshare on Mexico's tourism, and a panel on "Crossing Cultural Barriers," which will discuss the challenges
and rewards of doing business outside U.S. borders.
On Sunday, April 14, ARDA holds the popular, sure-to-sell-out Crystal Ball Luncheon. This year, ARDA is focusing
this program on the changes in the industry as a result of the September 11th terrorist attacks on American soil.
With leisure travel dropping and the economy tightening, how will these realities impact the industry, and how
are companies responding?
One of the feature social events at ARDA 2002 will be the Awards Gala where ARDY winners will be announced and
there will be a special performance by headliner comedian Howie Mandel, sponsored by Holiday Systems International.
The 2002 Convention hosts a full agenda of educational sessions, interactive forums, workshops and exhibits designed
to position industry players for success in the current economic environment. Over forty regular educational sessions
will range from topics like, the popular "Fundamentals" series for newcomers to the industry, to a session
on developing AICPA Guidelines. There will also be specialized programs, such as the "Sales Management Seminar,"
a four-hour event that instructs experienced sales staff how to further hone their skills. ARDA also plans an encore
of 2001's "Great Debate" series, including a pro vs. con debate on first-day incentives.
A few 2002 session topics, include:
Participants will also be invited to examine HOAs and resort management, financing, points systems, industry
technology and the internet, human resources, sales and marketing, personal enrichment seminars, international
timesharing, resort design and conversion, and fractionals.
Whatever your unique segment of the timeshare business, ARDA 2002 is a must-attend event. These few days in Las
Vegas not only promise fun and excitement you'll never forget, but will also provide the access, resources and
information you'll need to maximize your business success in 2002.
The American Resort Development Association is a non-profit trade association located in Washington, D.C. ARDA
represents the interests of nearly 1,000 members, including second home resorts, vacation timeshare developers,
fractional interests as well as timeshare homeowners' associations and individual timeshare owners across the country.
For more info on the ARDA Convention 2002, visit www.arda.org or call ARDA at
202.371.6700.
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Contact:
Karen Valanzano 202.371.6700 x. 313 kvalanzano@arda.org