The Markers Club Executive Visits South Africa

By: Destination Club News
Date: June 11, 2010

Just a few short weeks following the announcement of the pending launch of The Markers Club Africa, the club's CEO, Michael Broussard, has made his way to South Africa to see the new properties available to members up close and in person. Taking a quick moment out of his travels, Broussard called the country "amazing" and that he would have "stories to tell" upon his return.

The Markers Club Africa has six properties at present planned for their launch, but members will also be able to enjoy safaris and photo tours throughout the region. A subsidiary of The Markers Club, The Markers Club Africa has a planned occupancy rate of approximately 50% with properties within the portfolio accessible by members of both The Markers Club Africa and The Markers Club. Likewise, members of The Markers Club Africa will have reciprocal access to The Markers Club portfolio.

Work isn't the only thing on the agenda as Broussard is taking in the USA versus England game today at the World Cup. Also likely in attendance will be members of The Hideaways Club, Europe's largest destination club in terms of members and owners of two vacation properties in South Africa.

Last week, The Hideaways Club's Michael Sugden told us that they had already procured tickets to the World Cup for members as well as arranging transportation, safaris, and wine tours.

The Hideaways Club, The Markers Club, The Oyster Circle, Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club, and Exclusive Resorts all offer or have offered vacation options in South Africa to members. The strong real estate value in the region coupled with the famed golf, winery, and safari experiences available have made the nation high on many club's lists.

Over the past year plus, The Markers Club has radically restructured their club. The vast majority of destination clubs require the payment of a refundable membership deposit to join and annual dues for each year they remain with the club. Early last year, The Markers Club relaunched, removing the refundable membership deposit from the equation, requiring members only to pay annual dues. Since this reshaping, the club has also created a retail store and have branched out from their golf focus to include more family friendly destinations. The Markers Club Africa isn't planned to be the end of their global reach, with expansions into the Middle East, Europe, Asia, Mexico, and Canada.

Upon his return, Broussard will be providing us with a recap of his excursion, including visits to the new properties and other adventures available to club members in the area. Check back for more news on the destination club industry and Broussard's remarks regarding his trip in the coming weeks.