RTX Traveler Magazine | Issue 20 | Park City, Utah

Welcome to issue 20 of RTX Traveler Magazine featuring Park City, Utah!

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PARK CITY

SILVER SPOONS MOGUL MASTERS OLYMPIC GLORY

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ISSUE 20

WE’RE ALL ABOUT EXCHANGE

Table of Contents

MAY 2018 | ISSUE 20 | RTX TRAVELER

07 09 10 11 16 19 20 22 25 27 33 37 39

A Wasatch Welcome Park City welcomes with legendary powder, silver culture and friendly locals.

Dinner Downtown We explore four downtown eateries, all unique in their own way.

Ski Stay Park Plaza Resort is in an amazing location whether you want to stick to the slopes or enjoy downtown’s aprés ski vibe all day.

A Brief History Lesson The Park City Museum encapsulates the area’s silver history dating back to the 1860s, its legacy still steering the town today.

Skiing Sensation The compact nature of Park City means you’ll spend more time on the mountain than traveling to it.

Sunny Snow Tubing The 100 percent family-friendly nature of Gorgoza Park makes for a great snow outing with your group.

Lowballs at High West The famous Western distillery right downtown makes a great Old-Fashioned. We’ll give you the specifics.

5 Amazing Exchanges We’ve got five sensational ideas for your next RTX exchange, from the lush tropical landscape of Hawaii to the neon-filled desert heat of Las Vegas. RTX Weekend Escape: Savannah, Georgia This is Southern charm. Exercise your brain with a history tour of this fascinating town, then exercise your jaw with some very fine cuisine. RTX Resort Spotlight: Tahoe Beach & Ski Club Tahoe Beach & Ski Club in South Lake Tahoe beckons with a 400-foot private beach and easy mountain access.

Winter Sports Are Calling Skiing isn’t the only sport you can enjoy at these thrilling winter destinations.

Let’s Go Downtown Downtowns are walkable, compact and the heart of the city. Let’s see what gives these four destinations their character.

Travel Tips: Park City, Utah Everything you need to know when booking your exchange to Park City.

ON THE COVER: Skiing at Park City Mountain Resort

RTX Traveler Staff

WHAT’S INSIDE

PUBLISHED BY Resort Hospitality Solutions for RTX

EDITOR Sara Little

SIT DOWN AND HOLD ON What’s it like to rocket down the 2002 Olympic bobsled track? We find out with a visit to the Utah Olympic Park, where visitors can take an exhilarating ride on the comet bobsled. 12

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Lara Poll

WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHER Pat Barcas

FLYING HIGH IN DEER VALLEY See what makes Park City, the home of the U.S. Ski Team, an international ski destination. We’ll check out the Visa Freestyle International Ski World Cup competition.

CONTACT RTX 521 College St. Asheville, NC 28801 (888) 988-4RTX exchange@rtx.travel

ADVERTISING (828) 350-2105, Ext. 4398 media@rhsinc.com

For Resort Solutions & Partnerships contact: Corina Violette cviolette@rtx.travel (855) 217-0789

RTX GIVES BACK Our annual Casino Night fundraiser was once again a rousing success, besting our number raised last year. See how RTX has been raising money and resources for local organizations.

TRAVELER WINS AGAIN! We’re celebrating a repeat win of the Perspective Magazine Best Print Media award, a prestigious award given out at the GNEX conference in Miami earlier this year.

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Send us your vacation photos or a review of your trip and you may be featured in an upcoming issue of RTX Traveler . Send an email to

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FILM FESTIVAL FUN Are you a cinephile? After seeing Sundance, check out these other popular film festivals dotted throughout the country, with film offerings for everyone.

OLYMPIC GOLD These former Olympic host cities and RTX destinations offer excitement and diverse fun in some stunning locations. We’ll show you what makes them special.

RTX Traveler is published quarterly by Resort Hospitality Solutions (RHS) for Resort Travel & Xchange (RTX), exclusively for RTX members. © Resort Travel & Xchange (RTX) 2018. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without written consent is prohibited.

FROM THE EDITOR

RTX Traveler: Letter from the Editor By the time you’re reading this, the massive amounts of snow featured in this issue may seem like a distant memory, or a hazy dream of some kind of winter wonderland. Maybe you’re enjoying a beach view right now, or loving the lush greenery and

outdoor adventures of a four-season ski destination. Regardless of where you are at this moment, be assured that Park City’s slopes will be welcoming visitors once again come mid-November, so you have plenty of time to plan your Park City ski vacation. Not into snow sports?

We also have an award to celebrate – RTX Traveler Magazine has received the Best Print Media award from Perspective Magazine for the second year in a row! The award was presented at the GNEX industry conference in February 2018, and we were up against some strong competition. On behalf of the magazine staff (all three of us!), we’d like to thank the leadership at RTX for their support and guidance in helping us grow this publication and making it the best that we can for you, our members. We hope that you enjoy this 20th issue of RTX Traveler Magazine, and we want to send you on vacation soon!

When putting this issue together, we found several RTX destinations that have things in common with Park City. Of course, we have destinations made famous for their winter attractions and activities. There are also places that have hosted the Olympics where you can either exchange or book through your discounted hotel stay options with RTX. Film buffs will love the destinations we found with fun cinema-centric events, and the spots we found with charming downtowns will have you ready to pack your bags. From our home offices, we’re excited to feature some of the fundraising and community involvement our employees have participated in over the last few months. We are extremely proud to have so many employees who give their time and efforts to help out those less fortunate in our community.

No problem! Park City’s i d y l l i c downtown offers plenty beyond the slopes. If you prefer watching sports rather than participating, the city is teeming with Olympic related attractions and events – check out page 12 for a look at one of the events that you might stumble across during your visit. Prefer the après ski scene? The easily walkable town has dining, shopping, museums, art galleries and so much more. Ever heard of a little film festival called Sundance? Yep, that happens here, and the festival’s wide reach and influence means you might spot a celebrity or two any time of year here.

Sara Little Editor, RTX Traveler

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12 BEST BEACHES These top beach rankings were compiled by U.S. News and World Report, and may be available through an RTX exchange or hotel Getaway.

OAHU, HAWAII Waikiki and Makapu’u Beaches

MAUI, HAWAII Red Sand Beach & Ho’okipa Beach Park

KAUAI, HAWAII Hanakapi’ai & Lumaha’I Beach

BIG ISLAND, HAWAII Hapuna, Mauna Kea, and Kua Bay Beaches

MIAMI, FLORIDA Lummus Park & Haulover Beach

LANA’I, HAWAII Shipwreck and Polihua Beach

ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA Ponte Vedra & Vilano beaches

MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA Carmel Beach & Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

ATLANTIC CITY, NEW JERSEY Ocean City & Cape May Beaches

SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA East Beach & Leadbetter Beach

BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI Ship Island & Biloxi Beach

BOCA RATON, FLORIDA Red Reef Park & South Inlet Park Beach

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DID YOU KNOW? You can find all issues of RTX Traveler online at www.rtxtraveler.com! RTX Member Benefit

RTX GETAWAYS

Have you spotted a destination in this issue that’s on your bucket list? Look for the Travel Now symbol to see places that you can book with your RTX membership through an exchange or other RTX benefit. The next time you plan a vacation, be sure to check out your benefits beyond exchange on the RTX website to book hotels, attractions, activities, airfare, cruises and more; whether you are using an exchange, traveling to see family for the holidays or even taking a business trip - RTX has you covered for all of your travel needs! TRAVEL NOW

Park City hosts Sundance Film Festival in late January every year. The Festival represents the flagship of the Institute’s public programs, which also include Festivals in London and Hong Kong and other screenings throughout the year. Sundance Institute supports independent artists with year-round programs, granting more than $2.5 million and convening 25 global residency Labs focusing on theater, film, New Frontier and episodic content. During the festival is a great time to hit the slopes, as more people are focused on the downtown activities, leaving shorter lift lines. TRAVEL TIPS

The RTX Getaways symbol throughout this issue denotes popular destinations for last-minute vacations that our members can book without exchanging or depositing usage. Pricing varies based on RTX membership level, and is lowest at less than 30 days prior to check-in. Destinations change often, so log in to your account at www.rtx.travel to search for Getaways, or keep an eye on your inbox for monthly emails highlighting current Getaways available. Turn to page 41 for more! See page 41 for terms and conditions.

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PARK CITY, UTAH

PARK C I TY This 2002 Winter Olympics host city is a place of contrasts: cozy yet expansive, glamorous yet down-to-earth, and friendly yet solitary. You’ll definitely put more miles on your skis than on your car during this vacation - Park City is only 30 minutes up the looming Wasatch Mountain range from Salt Lake City International Airport, and the compact downtown reflects its silver mining past, maintaining the authentic 1870s layout full of local boutiques, bars, night spots and contemporary restaurants. Rub elbows with celebrities during Sundance Film Festival in January, then lose yourself in the legendary Utah powder of Park City Mountain Resort, the largest ski area in the United States.

PARK CITY, UTAH

LOCAL FAVORITES: DOWNTOWN RESTAURANTS

FLETCHER’S Fletcher’s offers small and large plates, grass-fed beef and local produce, and a downstairs lounge that impresses even the most discriminating of customers. Enjoy seared grouper, short rib grilled cheese, or a delicious buffalo sirloin.

THEEATINGESTABLISHMENT Breakfast all day is the hallmark of this no- frills establishment, which opened in 1972. Grab some coffee and comfort food such as a chicken-fried steak sandwich during the day, and relax after skiing at night at their full bar.

ROCK & REILLY’S This good time joint features food and spirits mixed with Irish tradition. This intimate, seated-only cocktail bar has a specialty drink to slake any thirst, and a menu to go with it. Enjoy burgers, fish and chips, wings, Irish nachos, grilled cheese, burgers, and plenty of Irish whiskey.

RIVERHORSE ONMAIN Consistently rated a top restaurant in Park City, Riverhorse has a trendy urban vibe, live music and a historic setting in the heart of Main Street. Wow your taste buds with new American cuisine, with an emphasis on local seasonal ingredients, fresh fish and meat. Try the sesame crusted ahi tuna, the low and slow buffalo short rib, or the trio of wild game.

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PARK CITY, UTAH

T he Park Plaza Resort is located a short 1.5 miles northeast of Park City Mountain Resort, with free public shuttles available throughout the day directly to the slopes, and an indoor garage to keep that Utah powder off your car. The neighborhood offers easy fitness walking via the Prospector Square Walkway or the Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail. Stroll across the street for your choice of upscale and casual dining and tavern options. At the

end of the day, kick up your feet in your choice of studio accommodations up to a two-bedroom suite. Larger rooms contain full kitchens, living and dining areas, balconies and fireplaces. Join the social scene after skiing at the indoor pool and hot tub, located in the central atrium, and let the kids burn off some energy in the game room. There’s also a wide variety of DVDs for rent at the front desk, free of charge. The Park Plaza Resort offers everything you need to enjoy Park City, in any season.

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You can’t visit Park City without feeling the silver mining history; it’s practically dripping from the walls of the historic buildings downtown, with the mountains emerging right behind them filled with the remnants of the 1,000 miles of mines that put this town on the map. The Park City Museum details and preserves the timeline of yesteryear, outlining in an impressive display what it was like to be a miner shortly after silver, lead, zinc and gold were discovered in Park City in 1868. Step back in time and see the perils of mining in the 1870s - dissenters of the harsh labor conditions were often jailed, and estimates range as high as 1 in 3 miners facing serious injury every time they went below the surface. Several rich claims were purchased, perhaps the most famous being the Ontario claim, bought by George Hearst in 1872 and paving the way for the vast Hearst fortune. The Ontario claim was the last silver mine to close in 1982, with six shafts that led nearly 3,000 feet below the surface. Today, the glitzy Egyptian Theater, born out of America’s King Tut obsession in the 1920s, stands downtown as the centerpiece of the Sundance Film Festival, which moved to Park City in 1981. Sundance is one of the largest film festivals in the world, taking place in late January every year and attracting major filmmakers and actors from all over the world. Stroll downtown and you’ll see people fresh off the mountain and dressed up revelers alike, all celebrating in the downtown’s numerous bars, restaurants and aprés-ski nightlife venues. FORGED FROM SILVER PARK CITY, UTAH

PARK CITY, UTAH

T here was some tension - no, more like downright nervousness - during orientation for the Comet bobsled ride, and it was palpable. Mostly because it stemmed from the uniqueness of the event. No one there had ridden a bobsled or known anyone who had, except for the employees at the Utah Olympic Park, and they weren’t talking. Sure, we were told about posture - keeping our shoulders up and tight would minimize our heads bouncing around, but that was about it on what to expect as we rocketed down the $33 million Olympic track at Utah Olympic Park. We’d reach speeds of up to 65 MPH and pull 3.5 Gs in the corners while riding in the four-man, $25,000 bobsled. But none of those figures were going through my head as we crammed like sardines into the sled. (How do they do this on the run in the Olympics?) I had opted for the rear seat, which had the least visibility but was also the roughest ride because the two-piece sled tended to crack like a whip at the end. Yes, I was going to feel it. The green light illuminated, and as we rolled down the metal ramp onto the track, rapidly gaining speed, there wasn’t much else to think about except for holding on as the professional driver guided us on our journey. It really was like a tight, low-to-the- ground rollercoaster, with your rear end only inches off the ice, the sled swinging like a pendulum through the turns. Creating the icy track is very labor intensive, as it has to be formed and maintained by hand. The imperfect ice is alive, reacting to temperatures and weather conditions. I felt every bump, every nuance of the track as we raced toward the uphill finish line, gravity finally relenting as we cried uncle, and acting as our ally to help slow us down. We emerged all smiles, not just from the rush of completing the ¾ mile long course, but from the weight of the apprehension lifting off our shoulders. No, we didn’t capture Olympic gold, but maybe in some tiny part, we experienced what the glory was like. The 400-acre UtahOlympic Park is located minutes from downtown and features six Nordic ski jumps, a comprehensive 2002 Winter Games museum, a café and adventure activities such as zip lining, a ropes course and a drop tower.

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PARK CITY, UTAH

OLYMPIC ASPIRATIONS

V iewing a 28 degree ski slope from the side is daunting. It looks like the kind of slope you’d like to take smooth, wide turns in, your skis gripping into a nice layer of groomed powder. Seeing the skiers coming down and negotiating the narrow 28 degrees of pitch on the freestyle mogul course at the Visa Freestyle International Ski World Cup was quite the contrast - it bordered on terrifying. Out of the gate, they go right into a set of moguls, being judged on technique and speed. Then, there’s a waist-high kicker ramp, landing

resorts located within 10 minutes of downtown and an average of more than 25 feet of annual snowfall, it’s no wonder the U.S. Ski Team calls Park City home. The competitors this year featured former and future Olympic athletes competing to be the best in the world, with a rousing crowd at the bottom of the hill, VIP party tent, and loudspeakers pumping up the skiers, adding to the festive winter atmosphere. It’s just another facet of this fabled ski town that loves to have a good time.

immediately into a middle section of moguls, another ramp, moremoguls and then the finish line, with 20 percent of their score placed on tricks performed off the jumps. The event requires razor sharp concentration, strength, and nerves. In 2018, Deer Valley, an upscale, skiers-only resort in Park City, hosted the 20th year of international and world ski competitions, including events of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, two World Championships, and 16 World Cups, cementing the resorts and town’s credibility as both a producer and host of world-class talent. With several ski

PARK CITY, UTAH

POWDER PARADISE

PARK CITY, UTAH

T he smell of white pine was striking, mixing in with the alpine air so perfectly that I felt I could bottle it and bring it home. It was just below freezing, the sun was out, the clouds puffy and white. A fresh snow had fallen and I was riding the ski lift, the jagged terrain falling away beneath me while being whisked thousands of feet up the mountain so efficiently, before letting gravity do the work on the way down. This was Park City Mountain Resort in January and all was right in the world. Park City Mountain Resort, at more than 7,300 skiable acres, is the largest ski area in the country, thanks to a 2015 merger with neighbor Canyons Resort and subsequent $50 million capital improvement project. It is

home to three distinct base areas, nine hotels, more than two dozen restaurants, 348 trails, 41 lifts, eight terrain parks, 13 bowls and two half pipes. If you can’t find anything you like to ski here, you might consider finding another sport. Vast terrain aside, there’s an entirely different reason that people flock to Utah to ski: the epic powder days. The phrase “The Greatest Snow on Earth” first appeared as a headline in the Salt Lake Tribune, and starting in 1985, was printed on Utah state license plates. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not the dryness of the Utah powder that makes it the best, although it is definitely light and fluffy. With Pacific- born storms dumping their moisture over the Sierra Nevada mountains before hitting the Wasatch Range, the snow is dry, but not as dry as when it makes its way to New Mexico. No, it’s the consistency and volume of snow in Utah that creates the unusual quality needed for skis to float on the powder in a desirable manner: a “right side up” condition occurs when lighter snow sits on top of relatively heavier, earlier snowfalls, making it easier to float and turn. It’s these subtle differences that attract powder hounds and diehards to Utah. And when you’re done skiing for the day, let gravity take you all the way into downtown for a variety of après ski options. It’s a delightfully old- school way to get around, and so much fun!

PARK CITY, UTAH

SNOW TUBING at G O R G O Z A P A R K

Kids aged six and under can hook their tubes onto the rotating carousel in Fort Frosty, or take the super gentle junior tube run. More adventurous youngsters aged six to 12 can hop on a kid sized snowmobile and take some laps around the course, complete with a scenic mountain backdrop. Warm up in the café yurt before heading back out for more. If anyone in the family is too young or intimidated to hit the ski slopes, this is the perfect venue to have some gravity-assisted, snowbound fun with the whole family.

You’ll spin, you’ll laugh and you’ll feel the wind in your hair as you cruise down one of seven tubing lanes serviced by a magic carpet and T-bar lift system that takes you to the top. This is not your neighborhood sled hill. This is Gorgoza Park snow tubing. Floating down the hill, you get the sensation that you’re out of control as you spin backwards. Will you be able to stop at the end? What if you careen into a side wall? But the run is more of a chute, and all carefully designed to effortlessly and gently stop you at the bottom, with the ride atop your inflated tube as smooth as a pillow.

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PARK CITY, UTAH

HIGHWEST DISTILLERY: THE HOUSE OLD-FASHIONED

High West Distillery and Saloon is in a historic livery stable and garage, right smack in the middle of downtown, and accessible via skis if you want to do something truly unique. Their award-winning whiskey was first distilled in 2007 by former biochemist David Perkins and his wife, Jane. The elegant saloon has authentic Old West trappings, featuring delicious alpine- inspired Western fare alongside the original 250 gallon still. Stop by for lunch, dinner or a rousing après ski crowd, including, of course, some very fine whiskey. RECIPE: In a low ball glass, combine 1.5 ounces of High West Rendezvous Rye, 1.5 ounces of High West Double Rye, ½ ounce of Demerara simple syrup, and two dashes of Angostura bitters. Stir in the glass, garnish with a lemon twist and an orange twist and enjoy.

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MEMBER NEWS

AMAZING EXCHANGES Ready to start planning your next exchange vacation? In each issue of RTX Traveler, our Exchange Concierge team shares some of the top spots where RTX members can exchange for their next vacation. Here are their current picks. Contact RTX today to let us send you on vacation to one of these fantastic destinations! THE HOTTEST DESTINATIONS

LAS VEGAS Nevada

There’s nothing quite like the spectacle of Las Vegas. The strip is an unofficial theme park. Wander from casino to casino, taking in shows, shopping, fine dining, gaming and the spectacle of the casinos. Out on the sidewalk, the shows continue with people watching and buskers vying for tourist attention. Take the kids to check out Iron Man at the Marvel Avengers Station interactive exhibit at Treasure Island, or try something uniquely Vegas - become an axe throwing master at Axe Monkeys indoor axe throwing, or fire a machine gun at The Range 702. For a different feel, you can take a cab a few miles to downtown Las Vegas, where the Fremont Street Experience offers up more people watching, live music and gaming in a more intimate setting. It’s sensory overload at its finest.

Puerto Morelos is halfway between Cancun and Playa Del Carmen in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It’s got a small town vibe with plenty of dining and entertainment, all set upon a backdrop of shallow, emerald green ocean water. Visit the Croco Cun Zoo to observe crocodiles, spider monkeys, parrots, snakes and more. Hit the water for a dive adventure, or take a jungle ATV tour and swim in a magical Mayan cenote. PUERTO MORELOS Mexico

CARLSBAD California

NEW SMYRNA BEACH Florida This stunning, warm destination on the Space Coast hits all the high points of a Florida vacation. Enjoy ocean sport fishing, ecotourism, kayaking among mangroves, river cruises, historical sites and world- class golf. Thirteen miles of white sand beaches greet visitors, as well as some of the most consistent wave action on the east coast. Surf’s up for thrill seekers looking to test their meddle!

OAHU Hawaii

The California enclave of Carlsbad has family fun from the coast on inland. Hit up Legoland California for a fun twist on the modern theme park. The world famous San Diego Zoo and Safari Park is nearby, and has been voted the number one zoo in the world for its diversity of animals. For peace and serenity, check out the Leo Carillo Ranch Historic Park, representing history, culture and Hollywood. southern

The most populous island in Hawaii has much to explore, from the busy streets of Honolulu to the country of the North Shore. Pay respects at the Pearl Harbor monument and aviation museum, or spend the day at Sea Life Park, home to penguin shows and dolphin swims. Oahu is also home to Iolani Palace, the 19th century former home of Hawaii’s final monarchs.

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MEMBER NEWS

In our industry, member education is key. We want to make sure you are getting the most out of what you’ve purchased, which is why we launched some special question and answer sessions this spring on Facebook Live. We’ve had RTX representatives answering your vacation ownership questions live along with Greg Crist, CEO of Association of Vacation Owners. These experts have weighed in on the benefits of timeshare, when the best time to book is, the flexibility of exchange and how to find the best vacation options for you and your family. You can find our past Facebook Live events archived on the RTX YouTube channel. As we branch out with more member education events, we invite you to like the RTX Facebook page and check your email for upcoming Facebook Live events. If you’ve got a question, go ahead and ask during these informal and fun chats. We’d love to hear from you. We plan on holding more conversations on a number of topics that involve you and your next RTX vacation, so stay tuned! A FACEBOOK CONVERSATION

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To receive an additional 15% off the lowest prices in your favorite destinations, use coupon code TRAVELER at check-out on www.VacationCondos.com! Like us on Facebook for even more savings! * For terms and conditions turn to page 41.

MEMBER NEWS

TRAVELER TRIUMPH

Maybe it was the majestic moose on the cover. Or the alluring activities featuring some of our newest exchange destinations in Colorado. Whatever it was, the summer 2017 issue of RTX Traveler had what it takes to win Best Print Media at the 2018 Perspective Magazine Awards, presented February 28 at the GNEX conference in Miami. This is the second year in a row the magazine has won the award, which has been recognizing excellence in the vacation ownership industry since 2011. The 2018 Perspective Magazine awards included 30 different categories, and were judged independently by

four industry experts, as well as an online portal where colleagues could cast their votes for the winner. Since RTX’s win last year, the team who produces the magazine has gone through tremendous growth, evolving from the RTX communications team to Resort Hospitality Solutions, a company that leverages technology and industry experience to provide services to resorts and companies in the hospitality industry. “We were honored to receive this award from Perspective at GNEX again this year. There are a lot of strong

publications in our industry and we were proud to be able to stand out. Our team may be small, but we work hard and are grateful for the support of the leadership teams at RTX and RHS,” said Sara Little, senior director of communications for RHS and editor of RTX Traveler Magazine. RTX Traveler remains a top priority for the team, with goals of highlighting exciting exchange destinations and activities for RTX members, as well as showcasing the wide range of benefits that RTX membership offers.

From left to right, Traveler writer and photographer Pat Barcas, designer Lara Poll and editor Sara Little.

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Savannah, Georgia RTX Weekend Escape

Savannah is a coastal city where Southern charm is manifested through art, architecture, boutiques, cuisine and cocktails, all set amidst a backdrop of alluring history and walkability. Relax in this enclave of rich history full of wonderful colors, tastes, sights and smells. Envelop your senses in this city that shines, any time of the year. Welcome to Savannah.

DAY 1

Enjoy your morning at Forsyth Park and its magical Spanish moss-draped oak trees and classical fountain. The park also features a fragrant garden for the blind, two playgrounds, a café, and Saturday farmer’s market. Savannah’s art scene is on display at the Savannah College of Art and Design, where student work is exhibited and rotated based on the academic term, along with its own store on Madison Square. Alternatively, check out the latest exhibits at the JepsonCenter for the Arts, designed by internationally-

acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie. The center focuses on modern and contemporary collections but doesn’t stray from classical European masters, either. There’s also a hands-on children’s museum space and daily drop-in studio with activities for all ages. Continue your cultural stroll with Architectural Tours of Savannah, a walking tour showcasing the city’s history throughout 300 years. For dinner, try The Grey, a former Greyhound Bus Station that’s been turned into a highly-acclaimed restaurant.

GETTING THERE

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, located 10 miles west of the city, serves seven airlines with multiple flights per day. There are a variety of rental car companies, taxis, limousines and motor coaches that also service the airport. For those driving, I-95 runs through the city north to south and I-16 brings visitors in from the west.

PICTURED This Page: The fountain at Forsyth Park Opposite page, left to right: the historical Cotton Exchange Building downtown, Tybee Island lighthouse, and the Savannah river front.

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DAY 3 Step out of the urban scene on your last day and experience Savannah’s beach. A quick 20 minute drive brings you to Tybee Island’s sandy beach, long pier, and lighthouse, which is open every day except Tuesday and has an attached museum. You could easily bring a cooler and lounge on the beach all day, soaking up the sun and Atlantic surf. For further stimulation, hit up the Tybee Island Marine Science Center, take an eco-kayak tour, or hike a simple nature walk in this unique coastal environment. When you’ve built up an appetite, the Crab Shack at Chimney Creek offers all things seafood. Try the Captain Crab’s Sampler Platter, filled with crab legs, Georgia shrimp, mussels, crawfish, corn, sausage and potatoes.

DAY 2 Work up an appetite with Savannah Bike Tours and check out the city’s downtown. The tour goes through the historic district with an experienced, licensed guide. Take a walk around the city’s 22 squares, each with its own personality. After, experience taste bud nirvana at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room, featuring tasty fried chicken, cornbread, sweet potato soufflé, okra gumbo and biscuits. In the afternoon, marvel at the Sistine of the South, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, filled with elaborate stained glass and 34 intricate murals. For dinner, try Cotton and Rye, new American cuisine set inside a former bank. At night, take a ghost tour through the most haunted city in America.

Visit www.rtxtraveler.com for more of our local favorites in Savannah.

* For terms and conditions turn to page 41. Make SAVANNAH Your Next Vacation! Plan your trip to Savannah with RTX. Book discounted hotel stays* as well as attractions and activities at www.RTX.travel. Need a flight to get there, or a rental car to get around? Book all of your travel through RTX.

Car Rentals More than just vacation ownership! Activities Hotels

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RTX RESORT SPOTLIGHT Tahoe Beach & Ski Club, South Lake Tahoe, CA T ahoe Beach & Ski Club is located in idyllic South Lake Tahoe, California. Discover an alpine retreat that blends the ease hike or horseback ride in the surrounding wilderness, or play on the lake with boating and fishing. In the winter, 40 feet of snow per year and 300 days of sunshine annually means the area is a premier skiing destination. Resorts such as Heavenly, Sierra-at-Tahoe, Squaw Valley and Kirkwood offer limitless powder runs and backcountry bowls for every skill level, all amid gorgeous mountain scenery. After skiing all day, hop on over to Stateline for cocktails and gambling excitement. You’ll find everything you need at the resort for a relaxing stay in South Lake Tahoe with the 400-foot private beach and cabin-inspired suites. Your relaxing Tahoe mountain retreat awaits at Tahoe Beach & Ski Club! of lakeside living with close proximity to Heavenly Mountain and Stateline, Nevada. The area is equally amazing in summer and winter - the cool, crisp air, mountain vistas and blue water of America’s largest alpine lake beckon to adventure seekers. Take a

RTX GIVES BACK

RTX strives to give back to those in need, and the last six months have been no exception. Through large and small actions, we’ve given back to the community via fundraisers and clothing drives. During the holiday season, RTX once again volunteered for Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministries (ABCCM). The organization is a key charity in our office’s area, and we love it because

it provides families with emergency assistance during crisis, coordinates educational activities at the jail, provides transitional housing of the homeless, increases health care access to those in need, and provides work readiness and job placement services. In November, we held a coat drive as the chilly weather set in, gathering a van load of coats and cold weather gear. We also held our annual

CasinoNight fundraiser, whichnettedmore than $24,000 in funds used to purchase gifts for area underprivileged children as part of ABCCM’s Christmas Angel program. RTX employees and employees of our sister companies in Asheville personally went out and bought the items, whichwere then donated to ABCCM for distribution: an entire box truck full!

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7-night, All-Inclusive Sailing Vacation Aboard a Luxury Catamaran St. Maarten & British Virgin Islands A VACATION FOR YOUR BUCKET LIST! JUST $2,950 PER COUPLE (That’s 32% off the normal rate) Call 888-988-4789 today! * For terms and conditions turn to page 41.

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Olympic Games These historic Olympic sites were chosen for more than just their natural assets.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA The summer of 1996 brought the summer Olympics to Atlanta, and while the legacy is but a memory, there’s much to see in this southern metropolis. Hit the Varsity, a throwback burger joint started in 1928, for some greasy goodness. The city also offers a famously massive and diverse aquarium, a large zoo and the World of Coca-Cola, where you can taste Coke from around the world. Explore Atlanta’s civil rights roots with a tour of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birth home, part of the National Park Service.

CALGARY, ALBERTA CANADA The Calgary Olympic park was the venue of some thrilling events in the 1988 winter Olympics, and visitors can experience many of those same sports today, right in the heart of the city. Acura Tube Park, with 10 lanes 200 meters in length, is the largest snow tube track in western Canada. You can also ski and snowboard in the downhill racing section of the hill, as well as the exciting terrain park. In the summer, enjoy mountain biking, an exhilarating zip line, summer bobsleigh rides, mini golf and a challenge course.

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VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA CANADA Vancouver hosted the 2010 winter Olympic games, and you can relive the glory by either skiing at nearby Whistler or staying in town to see this chic and trendy city. Filled with Asian influence, Vancouver has a wide variety of excellent ethnic food, street food, cafés and gourmet dining. Couple that with amazing seascapes, a world-class city park and runway label shopping, and you’ve got a recipe for an escape not soon forgotten.

SQUAWVALLEY & LAKE TAHOE, CALIFORNIA Squaw Valley, adjacent to Lake Tahoe, hosted the winter Olympics in 1960, and it’s no surprise why. Lake Tahoe is equally amazing in summer and winter - the cool, crisp air, mountain vistas and blue water of America’s largest alpine lake beckon to adventure seekers. Consistently voted one of North America’s premier vacation spots, this classic destination that straddles California and Nevada in the Sierra Nevada mountain range delivers recreation at a base of 6,225 feet.

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BANFF, CANADA There aren’t many words that can accurately describe the grandeur of Banff, located in the Canadian Rockies. Every turn is a potential postcard memory, every vista a magnificent sight. Marvel at the jagged, snowcapped peaks looming before you. Be amazed at the dense pine woods, the emerald mountain lakes and abundant wildlife all around you. Welcome to beautiful Banff. Banff has three ski resorts in the heart of the park: Mount Norquay, Lake Louise Ski Resort and Sunshine Village, and visitors can purchase one ticket good for all three mountains. Hardy souls can also enjoy outdoor ice skating, curling and ice fishing.

MASSANUTTEN, VA Massanutten Resort in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia offers year round family-friendly activities even if you don’t take advantage of the resort’s 1,110 feet of vertical skiing. For one, there’s the year round indoor waterpark, where the temperature is a constant 84 degrees. The surf is always up on the pipeline Flowrider standing wave, and kids can frolic in the 12-inch-deep frog pond, or 36-inch-deep family friendly Shenandoah Cove. Watch out for the central feature of the park, the Massanutten Meltdown, a giant bucket which periodically dumps water on delighted children!

RANGELEY, ME The beautiful Rangeley Lakes region comes alive in the winter. Lose yourself in hundreds of miles of snowmobile and cross country ski trails, or hop on a fat bike and tear the snow up. Two nearby 4,000 foot peaks offer the region’s best skiing, and you can even have fun pond skating like in the old days. When all the sports are over, the winter schedule is filled to the brim with festivals: Mountain Holly Days, the Parade of Trees, the Rangeley Snodeo, and Rock Maple snowmobile racing all add to the excitement of this wooded region.

WISCONSIN DELLS, WI Take advantage of the majestic Wisconsin winters in the Wisconsin Dells. The whole place is designed to still be family friendly in the cold Wisconsin climate. The scenery is often covered in a blanket of beautiful snow, and you can enjoy all the fun of the outdoors at this classic Midwestern vacation spot. Embrace the frost and go ice skating, snowmobiling, ice fishing or skiing. Not a fan of the briskness? Get inside for fun at one of the Dells’ signature huge indoor waterparks, catch a live show, or sample the libations at a local winery or brewery.

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Winter Sports Snow and ice add to the fun of these exciting destinations.

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Film Festivals

From artsy to adventurous, check out these screenings across the U.S.

LOS ANGELES, CA The eight-day L.A. Film Festival takes place in September every year, and showcases independent films, television, and episodic work from emerging storytellers, along with filmmaker-driven studio titles. In between films, visit Universal Studios Hollywood, the USS Iowa, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, shopping meccas such as The Grove and the Beverly Center, and of course the wonderful beaches and hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails in the warm, sunny southern California weather.

PALM SPRINGS, CA The PalmSprings International Short Fest had its 24th showing in June 2018, and it’s going strong with short films. Owing to Palm Springs’ historic movie star past, the event is very competitive, receiving more than 4,200 submissions frommore than 100 countries. More than 100 short films presented here have gone on to receive Oscar nominations and/or awards. While in Palm Springs, explore the city’s mid- century modern architecture, the thousands of swimming pools, and the scenic, rugged desert hiking trails.

TELLURIDE, CO Telluride triples in size every Labor Day to host the Telluride Film Festival. Notable film debuts include Juno, Brokeback Mountain, The Crying Game and Blue Velvet, and the event is noted as being a true, democratic “people’s festival.” While you’re there, enjoy world- class mountain biking, tubing the river, spectacular hiking, fly fishing, horseback riding, golfing, rock climbing, stand-up paddle boarding and taking in the bucolic mountain scenery.

WINTER PARK, FL Winter Park hosts the Florida Film Festival each April, premiering the best in current, independent and international cinema. The Oscar-qualifying festival packs a punch throughout 10 days, offering more than 180 films, first-class events, and cocktails. During the fest, relax in the city that’s known for its old world charm, elegant homes, quaint bricked streets, tree canopy and upscale shopping and dining.

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Charming Downtowns DESTINATION EXCLUSIVES Take a stroll and let time slow down.

GATLINBURG, TN Nestled at the base of the 300,000-acre Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is appropriately nicknamed the “Gateway to the Smokies.” With three entrances to the park from downtown and numerous roads and trails leading into the park, there are endless opportunities for outdoor recreation in the area. The bustling downtown lies in a valley between the mountains, and has tons of gift shops, restaurants, bars and fun stuff to do. Take the gondola at Ober Gatlinburg for a spectacular view up the mountain.

CHARLESTON, SC This Southern charmer oozes character: horse-drawn carriages, gas lights, handmade goods at the historic Charleston City Market and some of the country’s best restaurants, all set on a coastal backdrop. Take a historic city tour and learn of the antebellum history, or visit Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Take a sampling of some of the best Southern cuisine you’ve ever tried during a food tour, or if the after hours are more your thing, take part in a ghost tour highlighting the city’s haunted past.

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SCOTTSDALE, AZ When staying in Scottsdale, don’t miss the trendy yet authentic downtown. The Southwest’s largest shopping destination, the Scottsdale Fashion Square, has more than 250 distinctive retailers including Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus. Hit the Scottsdale Wine Trail, showcasing several wineries within walking distance to downtown. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, dedicated to art, architecture and design, is an educational institution that connects visitors to the dynamic art and ideas of our time. Relax in the Civic Center Park, a lush pedestrian park just steps east of Old Town.

BENTONVILLE, AR Global capitalistic juggernaut Wal-Mart was founded in Bentonville in the early 1950s by Sam Walton as Walton’s 5&10. You can still visit the original store and see the extensive Wal- Mart museum full of artifacts and nuggets of information. No, you won’t find any Duck Dynasty toilet paper holders here, but you will find a fascinating history of the frugal founder’s quest to offer lower prices so his customers could live better. The museum is self-guided and admission is free.

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TRAVEL TIPS

TRAVEL TIPS V I S I T I N G PA R K C I T Y

SKI SAFE Be prepared before you hit the slopes. Always dress for excess, with additional layers that can be peeled off. Ski in control and in bounds, paying attention to all signs and trail mergers as you slide down the mountain. In Park City, deep powder can exist. Be aware of tree wells, areas of loose, uncontrolled snow at the base of trees. They pose a hazard and can lead to you getting stuck and even suffocating through snow immersion. PARK PLACE If you drive downtown, be aware that congestion and winter snow can make things complicated. On Main Street, paid parking is from 11 a.m. to midnight, with free parking in the upper and lower Sandridge lots located on Marsac Avenue above city hall. There are also a number of parking garages, ensuring you won’t have to clear snow from your car when you return.

Flying into Park City is a breeze through Salt Lake City International Airport, only a short 30-minute drive from the Wasatch Mountain range and offering 800 plus scheduled flights daily. ONCE YOU’RE HERE Getting around the compact community is easy with free public transportation, taxis, private charters, and bike rentals in the summer. Alternatively, you can walk the historic downtown with ease. The Main Street Trolley Service operates downtown daily from 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. ALTITUDE ADJUSTMENT Don’t forget, Park City lies above 7,000 feet. It’s easy to forget when you’re cavorting downtown in the footsteps of movie stars, but you need to take it easy. It’s very important to drink plenty of water and reduce the chance of altitude sickness by letting your body acclimate slowly and avoiding caffeine, alcohol and heavy meals.

TRAVEL TIPS

GETAWAYS / T&C

RTX Getaways ( 888 ) 988-4RTX

MURRELLS INLET, SC

LAKE TAHOE, CA

NEW ORLEANS, LA

America’s largest alpine lake is one of the 20 oldest lakes in the world, and you can see it in the majestic, otherworldly terrain. Lose yourself in the craggy boulders and hiking trails around the crystal-clear waters, or revel in the dozens of feet of powder that Tahoe receives each year. This is a destination not to miss!

The laid-back sister of Myrtle Beach is the seafood capital of South Carolina. This lazy low- country escape features inlet dining at the MarshWalk. Relax at Huntington Beach State Park, with nary a high-rise to be found. The 9,000 acre Brookgreen Gardens offers one of the largest collections of sculptures in the country.

This Southern city knows how to have fun in the excitement and history of the French Quarter. Explore intricate architecture, lively street performers, and the authentic art displays of NOLA. Travel this year to take advantage of special tricentennial celebrations going on throughout 2018.

RTX

Getaways

The Great Value of RTX Want to travel more often without relinquishing your usage or having to worry about availability? As an RTX member, you have access to RTX Getaway weeks that are ready to be booked right now. With amazing low prices, Getaways are a great way to save on your vacation without having to deposit or exchange your usage. Visit www.RTX.travel and start planning your next vacation today.

See below for terms and conditions.

RTX Traveler Terms and Conditions: RTX Getaways (pages 6, 41, 42) : Getaway weeks are available to RTX members for select seven night stays, booking within 30 days of departure and based on availability. Verifiable retail value of Getaway weeks for all membership levels varies based on size of unit, location, season and availability at the time of booking. Pricing for Getaway weeks varies based on RTX membership level as follows: as low as $49/week for Premium Plus members, as low as $99/week for Premium members and as low as $199/week for Basic members. VacationCondos. com Coupon Code (page 23): Discount applies only to eligible properties. Dates and room types are subject to availability, vary by property, and are confirmed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Special event and holiday blackout dates may apply. Taxes, additional fees, charges, and deposits may apply. To receive a 15 percent discount on the cost of your reservation, enter the coupon code TRAVELER at check-out. Coupon code expires 12/31/2020. Discount is not valid towards week stays. VacationCondos.com has a 2 night minimum stay requirement. By making a reservation, guests agree to all terms and conditions provided at time of booking including minimum check-in age, pet, smoking, parking, resort, and cancellation policies. Void where prohibited by law. Hotel Stays (page 26): The rates on hotels displayed after members log in at www.rtx.travel vary based on the hotel, travel dates and room type. Rates are subject to change without notice. Only the rate posted at the time a reservation is booked and paid for will be honored. Festiva Sailing Vacations Special (page 30): Promotional rate is available to all RTX members who book all-inclusive sailing vacations through Festiva Sailing Vacations. Dates and itineraries subject to availability. Verifiable Retail Value ranges from $4,295 to $5,095 per couple. Total cost of $2,950 includes $2,150 provisioning fee per couple. Cost does not include two dinners ashore, transfers to and from the yacht and crew gratuity. Full terms and conditions apply.

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