New Destination Club Gentry Retreats Launches

By: Destination Club News
Date: May 19, 2005

"With Gentry Retreats, for a minimal cost, our Members have access to gorgeous vacation homes without the hassles of owning a second home or worrying that they don't use it enough," said Joseph LaTurner, the CEO and President of the new destination club, about his club's launch.

The non-equity Gentry Retreats will feature homes in the $500,000 to $1 million price range, with the club's flagship property in Blowing Rock, North Carolina.

Members will pay a one-time membership deposit of $85,000 to join, 85% of which is refundable if a member elects to leave the club. The club will have multiple membership plans, each with their own levels of annual usage with corresponding annual dues between $3,000 and $6,000 each year.

Once reserved for the ultra-affluent, destination clubs are quickly emerging as a vacation option for the price sensitive consumer. Just over a year ago, Private Escapes launched under the messaging of the "first and only affordable travel destination club." Earlier this year, Ultimate Resort launched, calling themselves the "most affordable luxury destination club on earth."

Private Escapes has already surpassed the 100 member plateau and launched their second club, Private Escapes Platinum, proving that the destination club concept does translate well to an audience that wants to be more conservative with their travel spending.

Located in Celebration, Florida, Gentry Retreats hopes to follow the success seen at these other value destination clubs and establish their name quickly. Please check back frequently to learn more about Gentry Retreats and the rest of the destination club industry.