£25 WINNING LETTER
SEASONS MEMBERSHIP FLEXIBILITY
Seasons Customer Services were delighted to receive the following email from Alan and Lesley Wearmouth of Coleford, Gloucestershire. It is always reassuring for other members and management to know that our readers are so happy with their holidays, they take the trouble to write to us in such glowing terms.
'My wife and I have been members of Seasons for some years now, and Elite members for a year or so. We recently visited the County Hotel in Bath and had an excellent short break, enjoying the central location and the easy car parking, apart from anything else. As always, we met a number of friendly and efficient Seasons employees (mostly new to us, but including one old friend!) and a range of equally friendly fellow guests. We have been really impressed by the quality of Seasons employees wherever we have been and the way in which so many of them go out of their way to help us to make the most of our membership and of our holiday experiences.
Our previous holiday was a fortnight's visit to South Africa, set up for us by the wonderfully helpful Yvonne, who seemed to take pleasure in the fact that we were so anxious to visit her homeland. We exchanged our Seasons time and went, together with our daughter, on what was truly the trip of a lifetime. By spending a week on a private game reserve and splitting a week between a beachside spot near Cape Town (the visit to Robben Island was a genuinely moving and memorable experience) and a quiet but huge place along the Garden Route, we saw a variety of what South Africa had to offer - and we'd recommend it to anyone.
Our reasons for writing are twofold. Firstly, in Bath we were pleased to be able to reassure a couple who had just bought a week that they wouldn't regret it, especially if they make use of the short breaks, Bonus Weeks and exchange possibilities - it really is such a flexible holiday product. Having done that, we thought we ought to let you know how positive we feel about Seasons and to say thank you to the many employees who have helped us to use our membership. Even when we had one unfortunate experience, Anne-Marie sorted it brilliantly - what a team!
Secondly, we wanted you and possibly other members to know just how easy it has been to arrange a couple of weeks holiday in Tenerife for my son and his wife as a wedding present. Following the clear instructions, and being unable to contact Interval International by phone because of the weather (no reply from their office I guess due to the snow), we were able to make all the necessary arrangements in twenty minutes over the Internet, getting them some excellent looking accommodation for the cost of two thirds of one Seasons week (having first made a quick phone call to Seasons to let them know), two exchange fees and two Guest Certificate fees. This represents excellent value and we are confident, based on our previous experience of both Interval International, that they will find the accommodation very much to their liking.
Please feel free to use any of this unsolicited email to support you in your development of Seasons - I just hope that you will be able to maintain the current standard of recruitment and development.'
Have YOU got a story about your Seasons holiday or short break that you would like to share? Simply email it to insight@seasonsholidays.com and you could win £25 if your entry is chosen as the winning letter in a future edition of Seasons eNews Update! And remember that attaching a photograph will give you a much better chance of catching the Editor's eye!
SNOWTIME AT CLOWANCE
The many fans of Seasons Clowance Estate already go into raptures when describing this beautiful resort - but not everyone is lucky enough to see it transformed into a winter wonderland. Resort manager Michelle Kirk sent us this superb picture taken during the cold snap earlier this month.
The Editor did have a chat to the General Manager at Whitbarrow Village, but as he explained, they had a foot of snow and on Monday 2nd February they were all so busy clearing it and arranging for staff to get on an off the premises - plus being cut off completely for seven hours - that they simply didn't have time to take any pictures!
ALPINE HOLIDAY IN CLOWANCE!
Members John and Anne Wilde of Bristol also enjoyed the snow at Clowance and sent a lovely email on their return from a short break with a collection of beautiful photographs.
'My husband John and I have just returned from a short break at Clowance. We thought we had been transported over to Austria when we awoke to a beautiful covering of crystal white snow. After having breakfast we went for a walk around the magnificent grounds. The lodges looked amazing, we couldn't have had a prettier view anywhere. As we approached the lake the sun came out and added to the beautiful scene. It was quite magical.
Throughout our stay we were entertained by all the birds and squirrels, who were right outside our lodge. We counted eight different types of bird, but our favourites were the little robins.
We enjoyed our swimming sessions in the lovely warm pool, and even warmer jacuzzi. The restaurant provided us with some excellent meals, and the service was friendly and efficient.
Unfortunately, John wasn't able to have his game of golf, so we had brought his clubs, trolley, umbrella etc., in vain. Never mind. We are looking forward to our next visit at the end of June. Although we enjoyed the snow...we are hoping for a much warmer week then, when the clubs will be put to good use.'
CREDIT CRUNCH BREAKS
As far as 2009 is concerned, the good news is that we still have good availability for short breaks in March at all Seasons UK resorts. So despite all the gloom and doom on the media, you can still get away from it all and have a good time at your favourite resort!
Even better news is that the tariff for short breaks for 2010 will be the same as 2009, so you can still have plenty to look forward to - without breaking the bank. For all short breaks, simply call Reservations on 01994 426000, knowing you can rely on their friendly assistance.
MEMORABLE BRUNSTON WEEKEND
In a world seemingly full of gloomy news, how heartwarming it was for Resort Manager Norma Docherty to receive a letter from Josephine and Peter Colman, of Welwyn Garden City, thanking Seasons staff for going the extra mile to make their 44th wedding anniversary trip to Ayrshire such a success.
'It really is difficult to know where to start to thank you and the other staff at Brunston Castle for the most memorable time we spent at the resort last weekend celebrating our wedding anniversary. When we last stayed at Brunston about six years ago we were advised that it would be much easier for us to fly from Hertfordshire and then hire a car which is what we did this time. Nevertheless we arrived rather cold and tired and it was so nice to find our accommodation so warm and comfortable.
Phil from Guest Relations came to see us to confirm our chat for the next morning and was full of advice and general helpfulness and then later it was a bonus to meet James again, whom we had met at Laugharne over Christmas. These good gentlemen had also heard of our anniversary and gave us a celebratory bottle of wine.
We had booked for the ceilidh on Sunday evening and were delighted to receive a card presented to us by Dylan, Norma's little grandson, together with another bottle of wine and a lovely cake. Many thanks to the kitchen staff for the cake. The whole evening felt like a personal party, talking and dancing with other members. So having had a great evening we went back to our lodge knowing we had to check out on Monday morning.
We turned on the TV in the morning and realised that, due to the snow, we might have a problem getting home. Our first need was for computer access to check on the situation and how good that there was one available. We set off for the airport having said our goodbyes and laughingly saying we might be back. We got as far as Ayr when we had a text message that the flight was cancelled. So we phoned Brunston who invited us back, where we stayed for another two nights until we were able to fly home.
During our extra two days at the resort, we had so much help from all the staff and we cannot thank everyone enough for helping us to ease the strain of what was quite a difficult time due to various arrangements at home for the early part of the week that we had to cancel. Especial thanks to Norma and James for dealing with the administrative side of our problem and now we are home, we can look forward to our next holiday through Seasons where, as Gold members of Interval International, we have exchanged one of our weeks towards a Titan Tours holiday to Madeira.'
FUN IN THE SNOW
Other visitors to Brunston Castle earlier this month included Sophia Ellis and Sam Ducroq from Cardiff, who were visiting thanks to Sophia's parents, who are Seasons members.
Resort Manager Norma Docherty reported: 'They came and had a fantastic time, Sophia last visited Brunston many years ago with her parents, but this was the first time her partner had visited and they both loved it. They had a great week and can't wait to come back. The bonus of course was the snow, where as you can see, they made a new friend!'
FOREST HILLS UPDATE
We received a very timely email from Chris and Rhuddian Burge of Fishguard, because Forest Hills is due to re-open on Sunday March 1st! This resort always did have a big following of Seasons members who regarded it as their favourite, and judging by the following description of the changes, it should be more popular than ever now. To see it all for yourself, simply phone Reservations on 01994 426000 as always.
'A few years ago Seasons considered closing Forest Hills and we were upset enough to plead for the resort to be retained. There must have been a lot of us as Seasons reversed the decision and recently decided to renovate the building. Whilst holidaying on the Costa del Sol last week, we thought we'd pay a visit to Forest Hills to see how the renovations were going. When we got there we were amazed to see so many people involved in so many tasks and we were introduced to Debbie, the manager, who gave us a conducted tour.
Having stayed at Forest Hills before, we couldn't believe our eyes at the transformation. The white marble floors, white walls and light woodwork have really opened everything out and it looks so much more spacious. All the rooms have been revamped with unique furniture, designed by Seasons staff locally, and, with new TVs and new windows with fabulous views over the countryside and the coast, are absolutely five star. The swimming pool and pool bar have been floored with hardwood decking, the restaurant enlarged and there are open seating patios everywhere. All the staff look so proud of the results of their labour and everyone was so friendly, we can't wait to go back. Well done Seasons and we recommend Forest Hills to all Seasons members.'
COUNTY HOTEL'S FANCLUB GROWS
Firstly, we heard from Christine Brunning and Keith Langford from Bicton Heath, Shrewsbury:
'We have just returned from a really enjoyable weekend in Bath. We were very warmly welcomed by Erin and her staff and Charlotte made us coffee. We arrived early so our room was not ready but we were able to drop our cases off and Lilly took them up for us. During our first excursion that afternoon, we discovered that the delights of the wonderful city of Bath were only a short walk away. The weather was kind to us so we decided to take in some of the sites, just in case the weather changed, as it had been forecast for high winds and driving rain. My legs are still recovering!
When we returned to the hotel, our room was a spacious en suite which had a lovely view over the county cricket ground. The staff could not have been more attentive and helpful. They were all so friendly and we would like to express our thanks to Manager Erin and her team, who went out of their way to see that we had everything we needed and we can highly recommend a short break at the County to Seasons owners. Please, please Seasons we need more of this type of accommodation. We would also recommend the fabulous Indian Restaurant, Rajpoot, in Bath to everyone. We made pigs of ourselves and regretted it in the morning but it was worth it!'
Next to contact us were Elite members Brian and Sue Gray, from Stoke on Trent.
'Well, where do we start? What a fabulous acquisition 'The County Hotel' is to the Seasons portfolio. Not only is the hotel perfectly positioned for exploring the wonderful spa town of Bath (more about that later) but also the hotel has a great team of staff who are attentive and knowledgeable. The rooms are spotlessly clean and well fitted out, although we think the number of stairs will not suit everyone if a top floor room is allocated. The choice at breakfast is wonderful, whether you desire a full breakfast or a lighter start to the day and the setting for breakfast is excellent.
Bath itself suits all ages, whether you want designer shopping, architecture, restaurants and bistros or a stroll through history. It's all there on your doorstep without having to start your car engine. We parked our car on arrival and didn't start the car until we checked out a few days later. That's an indication how good the whole place is. If this is the start of things to come, then Seasons have hit the jackpot.'
And last but not least from this issue of Seasons newsletter are Angela and John Tomkinson from Macclesfield:
'My husband and I recently spent a midweek short break at Seasons County Hotel Bath. Having spent time in the city previously, we were delighted when the offer came from Seasons to sample your new venture. A delightful few days was enjoyed at your lovely hotel and we were able to go out and about around the beautiful Somerset and Wiltshire countryside, having already sampled the delights of lovely Bath. The hotel staff were charming and helpful, especially Laura, our appointed representative. Our room was spotless, also the en-suite facilities, the only drawback being the fact that all rooms are on the first and second floors (a bit of a pull for semi-disabled OAPs). However, with a sumptuous breakfast, it wasn't necessary to eat again until the evening.
All in all, this is a splendid breakthrough for short city breaks and I'm sure other Seasons members would appreciate the ability to avail themselves of these types of break were they to become available. May I make so bold as to suggest several other venues which could be considered, such as York, Belfast, Canterbury, Edinburgh, Chester, Cambridge, Oxford etc. The list could go on for ever but almost anywhere in our beautiful UK would be a delight. Once again, thank you to Seasons Holidays.'
BOOK UP AT THE COUNTY ANY TIME
Now you've read all the glowing reports of the County Hotel in Bath, you will be pleased to learn that Seasons has decided to waive the rule (until the end of March) that Seasons members could only book The County within 59 days of travel. Bookings must be made before the end of March 2009 to secure any date in 2009, subject to availability. Simply call Reservations on 01994 426000 and let them know when you would like to stay at Seasons hottest new venue!
SEASONS HOLIDAYS QUEEN MOTHER CHAMPION CHASE
On Wednesday March 11th don't forget to watch Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase on channel 4 at 3.20pm or even better why not come to Cheltenham? To buy tickets visit www.cheltenham.co.uk
We are giving away 10 pairs of Club Enclosure entrance tickets worth £130 a pair. All you have to do to enter the draw is email marketing@seasonsholidays.com your name and address with the winner's name of last year's Seasons Holidays Queen Mother Champion Chase in the subject header, by midnight of 4th March 2009. The first 10 correct answers drawn at random will be contacted on 5th March and tickets mailed that day! Good Luck!
MYSEASONSHOLIDAYS.COM
We are currently developing a new website for Seasons members to upload stories, pictures and comments to create a travel resource about Seasons resorts and the surrounding areas. We would like you to recommend your favourite restaurants and attractions, so other members can benefit from your experiences. So start taking photographs of your Seasons holidays whether they be at Seasons owned resorts or affiliate resorts.
We would like to hear from you if you have any ideas or feedback about what you would like to see on the site. Email marketing@seasonsholidays.com with myseasonsholidays.com in the subject header with any ideas.
BAR/RESTAURANT COMMENT SHEET DRAW WINNERS
Below are the names of the January Seasons monthly draw winners for those who fill in the Bar and Restaurant Comment Sheets. There is one winner for each of the following six Seasons resorts - so be sure to fill in a sheet on your next visit for the chance to win a £20 meal voucher for use in any of these Seasons Resorts!
Clowance Robert King Southampton
Burn Park Mr Thompson Warrington
Whitbarrow Annie Merry Liverpool
Brunston Mr R Woolnough North Wales
Laugharne Mr C Pike Honiton
Club Tahiti Mr & Mrs Martin Harrogate
February's winners will be published in next month's newsletter and the free draw will continue each month until further notice.
UPDATE YOUR EMAIL DETAILS
You can now update your address details simply by clicking on the words 'click here to change your email address' on the left near the top of the newsletter, just below the 'No Pets' notice. Please do not contact the insight email address for this purpose. This will only update your enews subscription, please contact Membership Services directly to update your details, please call 01994 426000 or email memservices@seasonsholidays.com
Many thanks - The Editor.
SEASONS IMPORTANT EMAIL ADDRESSES
To make bookings at any of Seasons owned or affiliated resorts, or to book value for money Seasons midweek or weekend breaks, and for any general enquiries about your membership, simply email reservations@seasonsholidays.com.
For unrivalled service and advice on getting to and from your holiday destination, including low cost carriers, charters, scheduled flights, car hire, ferries, please email travelclub@seasonsholidays.com or call 01253 299044. All tickets are fully protected through our association with Vacation Travel Seasons Travel Club.
The Travel Club online enquiry/booking service is open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year. For more details click here.
If any members wish to contact Seasons Owners Consultative Committee email mail@socc.org.uk.
BACK ISSUES OF eNEWS
Members wishing to read previous issues of Seasons eNews Update should visit www.seasonsholidays.com, go to the Members page and click on 'Members News'. /spacer.gif){kind=spacer}