Renovations Completed At Trump International Hotel & Tower New York

By: Destination Club News
Date: September 15, 2010

New York City might be a more popular travel spot for destination club members as the extensive, $30 million renovation of The Trump International Hotel & Tower New York has been completed. The redesign of the 176 guest rooms and suites was directed by Ivanka and Donald Trump, including some signature touches from each.

Ivanka has chosen a gray and aubergine color palette and accents of ivory and caramel to give a more refined and urban feel. Silky fabrics are married to rich rosewood, mahogany, maple, and walnut finishes. Donald selected handcrafted Schonbek crystal chandeliers above each dining table and 55" flat-screen televisions in each bedroom and living room.

We spoke to Exclusive Resorts' Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications about the renovations. "Our members love our nine newly renovated two-bedroom residences at The Trump International Hotel & Tower," he said. "With stylish new furnishings, designer touches including handcrafted Schonbek crystal chandeliers, and remodeled kitchens with new high-end appliances, this extraordinary destination in New York has gotten even better."

Ultimate Escapes also counts five properties in Trump Tower. We spoke to a member currently traveling to one of the properties, saying that the trip has seen "no glitches." While "no glitches" wouldn't be noteworthy for any other club, it is for Ultimate Escapes as they remain in turmoil. After defaulting on their loan agreement with lender CapitalSource, the club was forced to sign a forbearance agreement. On the eve of the conclusion of the forbearance agreement, CEO and President Jim Tousignant outlined a proposal to members that would make Ultimate Escapes member-owned, asking for the club's membership base to vote on such a proposal. Yesterday, the club issued the results of the vote, roughly a two to one margin against the conversion. Ultimate Escapes will continue to consider other options, including a potential bankruptcy filing and/or the sale of the club.

Despite the situation at Ultimate Escapes, New York remains one of the most popular destinations for all travelers, and destination club members seem to have an insatiable hunger for the Big Apple. Nearly every club in the industry has multiple residences in the heart of New York, making for a perfect place to enjoy the city on vacation or on business.

If you want to learn more about destination club travel, including its benefits and risks, request a free copy of our Destination Club Guide for more information.