Timeshare in 75 countries

Time-sharing membership programmes can seem to be irrelevant when everyone can plan their holidays anywhere in the world with just a click of the mouse.

"Actually, timeshare membership programmes are growing. They are a getaway to a new world of holidaying pleasure," says Swiss Garden International Vacation Club chief executive officer Francis Chan.

Its timeshare membership programme differs from those in the market as the SGI Vacation Club membership allots a number of days for members to stay in its properties.

Since the company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of PJ Development Holdings, a property developer that operates under the Swiss-Garden brand, properties listed in the membership programme are six Swiss Garden hotels and resorts around the country (see accompanying story).

On top of that, it also offers a group of home-based as well as affiliated hotels and resorts around the world.

"A member can travel anywhere in the world and enjoy a stay in a quality hotel at a very good price - a special rate for members," says Chan.

The programme offers hotel stays at 2,800 locations in 75 countries such as United States, Thailand, Singapore, Australia and Spain. Members also enjoy other benefits like discounts and special rates for dining at Swiss Garden home-based resorts and hotels and 50 per cent discount for green fees at Damai Laut Golf and Country Club.

Members get additional privileges at participating merchants, discounts at the Swiss Garden group's Samsara Spa, Amber Chia Academy and Praise Slimming and Beauty Professional, among others. There are also special packages and rates for members at BP Healthcare and Menara Kuala Lumpur.

"On top of that, members are entitled to between seven and 14 days of free stay at six of our home-based properties which are operated by Swiss Garden, depending on the type of membership," he adds.

The flexible timeshare programme can last for 30 years. There are four types of memberships, namely Platinum Full, Platinum Odd/Even, Gold Full and Gold Odd/Even.

"With only a one-time payment of fees, members can enjoy a relaxing getaway, be it in the city or by the beach. Besides, who wouldn't want a free vacation stay every year?"

Visit www.sgivacationclub.com or call 03-2788 6688 for details.

PICK OF PROPERTIES

Swiss Garden Hotel & Residences Kuala Lumpur

Strategically located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, near to the shopping hub of Bukit Bintang, thisis a great place for a shopping holiday retreat. Great location aside, its comfy rooms are equipped with modern amenities and you can head for the Blue Chip Lounge to unwind after a tiring day.

Swiss Garden Golf Resort & Spa Damai Laut, Lumut ,Perak

This four-star beachfront hotel offers accommodation of international standards, superb resort facilities and personalised service. It is a perfect choice for those who are looking for a secluded and serene holiday spot, away from the noise. Here, sea-based activities are carried out from the resort's private beach and jetty. The exclusive Balinese Samsara Spa is in the resort.

Swiss Garden Resort & Spa Kuantan, Pahang

Nestled on the pristine Balok beach fronting the waters of South China Sea, this resort offers timeless contemporary elegance with a sophisticated blend of luxury. For those who want a traditional holiday, this is an ideal stay. All the rooms have a private balcony overlooking a panoramic view of the sea or the lush green landscape surrounding the resort. Ahh... truly a bliss!

Swiss Court Holiday Apartments, Damai Laut, Lumut, Perak

Located between the prestigious Damai Laut Golf & Country Club and Swiss-Garden Golf Resort & Spa Damai Laut, the spacious apartment units offer a home away from home.