ASTA Destination Expo 2014 Full Program

Full Expo

Program Enclosed Be one of the first 300 agents and the Yucatan will pay $50 of your registration fee.

Use discount code: YUCATAN

ASTA Destination Expo 2014

March 27-30 Merida, Yucatan, Mexico Tourism Board

YUCATĂ N

Discovering the world, one destination at a time. Join us in Merida.

ASTA.org/ADE

TO TRULY APPRECIATE

AND KNOW A DESTINATION, YOU HAVE TO EXPERIENCE IT.

Merida Merida Yucatan

Mexico Mexico City City

Campeche Campeche

Villahermosa

2 - www.ASTA.org/ADE

Cancun

Isla de Cozumel Quintana Roo

Chetumal

JOIN US NEXT MARCH IN

MERIDA THE ‘WHITE CITY’, LOCATED IN THE HEART OF THE STUNNING YUCATAN PENINSULA.

Take a new adventure and discover the deep culture that immediately surrounds you in Merida, Yucatan. Immerse yourself in the local flavors and sounds as ASTA’s Destination Expo gives you real life experiences you can share with your clients.

Choose from a variety of complimentary and preand post-tours to assist you in building your clients itinerary. You will take part in top-ranked training seminars that take you beyond the classroom. The information you will gain from these education seminars and tours will be invaluable when selling this captivating city. With sessions focusing on the geography, gastronomy, culture and history of Merida, you will return home with an abundance of information to pass along.

ASTA’s Destination Expo 2014 will be a unique learning experience where you will learn the skills to market your business and increase sales.

HOTELS ASTA Destination Expo event housing is available in these fine establishments. All are located in the historial center of Merida and are within walking distance to each other.

Convention meeting activities will take place at all three properties.

FIESTA AMERICANA MERIDA

Standard Guest Room (single/double): $94.00 USD* *subject to 16% Government Tax and 3% Lodging Tax

Three ways to make a reservation: Visit web: http://www.fiestamericana. com Group Code: GWY5C@FMD Be sure to choose Fiesta Americana Merida.

Phone: 1-800-343-7821 or +52-55-5326-6990. Be sure to give the group code, ASTA 2014, for the ASTA Destination Expo Rate.

Reservations Department: Email your reservation request to the reservations department and they will follow up within 1 business day. rinternet@posadas.com

HYATT REGENCY MERIDA Standard Guest Room (single/double): $94.00 USD* *subject to 16% Government Tax and 3% Lodging Tax

Three ways to make a reservation: Visit web: www.merida.regency. hyatt.com Corporate or Group Code: G-ASTA Phone: +52-999-942-1234 ext. 3010 or 3011. Be sure to give the group code, G-ASTA, for the ASTA Destination Expo Rate.

Reservations Department: Email your reservation request to the reservations department and they will follow up within 1 business day. Sergio Puga, Sergio.puga@hyatt.com; Ricardo Montejo, Ricardo.montejo@hyatt.com; Selene Resendiz, Selene.resendiz@hyatt.com

PRESIDENTE INTERCONTINENTAL

Standard Guest Room (single/double): $94.00 USD* *subject to 16% Government Tax and 3% Lodging Tax

Three ways to make a reservation: Visit website. (no code needed, click ‘view rooms and rates’ and select your dates) Phone: +52-999-942-9000. Be sure to give the group code, AS3, for the ASTA Destination Expo Rate.

Reservations Department: Email your reservation request to the reservations department and they will follow up within 1 business day.

Susana Coba, Susana_coba@grupopresidente.com www.ASTA.org/ADE - 3

TRAVELS TO MERIDA Please check with the carrier or ground transportation, prices provided are for reference only.

The transfer from Cancun to Merida will be offered to our attendees as complimentary, provided by the Yucatan Tourism Board.

TRANSFER FROM CANCUN to Merida / Merida to CANCUN Transfers from Cancun International Airport (CUN) to the Merida host hotels will be provided complimentary for all delegates on March 26 and 27.

Transfers from Merida’s International Airport (MID) to the Merida host hotels will be provided complimentary for all delegates on March 25, 26 and 27.

Transfers from Merida host hotels to Cancun International Airport (CUN) and Merida’s International Airport (MID) will be provided complimentary for all delegates on March 30 and March 31.

All complimentary transfers will be provided by The Yucatan Tourism Board.

To book a transfer, please contact Lupita Molina, KGroup, with your flight information. Lupita can be reached via email at guadalupe@kgroup.com.mx.

YUCATÁN Be one of the first 300 travel agents to register and the Yucatan will pay $50 of your registration fee.

Use discount code: YUCATAN

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DIRECT FLIGHTS TO MERIDA The most recommended way to arrive into Merida is to fly into Merida’s International Airport (IATA: MID) (ICAO: MMMD). There are several direct flights from Mexico City, Houston and Miami. Direct flights are somewhat limited.

AIRLINES OPERATING IN MERIDA - Once you arrive at the Merida airport you can rent a car at the airport or take a taxi directly to the host hotel. The drive is approx. 15 minutes to the city center.

AEROMEXICO 20% DISCOUNT OFF ON ANY PUBLISHED FARES (INTERNATIONAL AND NATIONAL) AeroMexico Tel. 800 021 4000 www.aeromexico.com POSITIVE SPACE Applies only on Aeromexico’s operated flights AM 3 digit flights and 2000 flight series Not applicable on code share flights Available at any Aeromexico’s ticket office or call center (US 1-800-237-6639) Also available through GDS by including the IT code “IT20RGD8213N1” (non commissionable) Ticketing dates are from September 18th through March 26th, 2014.

OTHER INFORMATION: Discount applies at the time of ticketing Must present ASTA’s invitation letter or event registration confirmation

InterJetTel 800 011 2345 www.interjet.com.mx Tel. Office (999) 920-3414 and 925-6814 United Tel. 800 900 5000 www.united.com Viva Aerobus Tel. 818 215 0150 www.vivaaerobus.com Volaris Tel. 800 786 5274 www.volaris.com.mx

FLIGHTS FROM CANCUN TO MERIDA MAYAir Tel. 800 962 9247 www.mayair.com.mx Fly into Cancun and then drive to Merida

Restrictions apply according to the standard applicable published fare rules and regulations.

DRIVE - Fly into Cancun International Airport (CUN) and rent a car (all major US car rental companies have offices in Cancun) then drive through Highway 180 to Merida (3 hours).

BUS - Another option is to take a bus line (bus line’s name is ADO www.ado.com.mx ) from the air-

port in Cancun to Merida. Once in Cancun ask any of the airport attendants for the ADO bus terminal and purchase your tickets as soon as possible.

The bus leaves Cancun’s airport once a day at 3:00pm with a cost of $390 MXN (around $30 USD) arriving in Merida at the Fiesta Americana Hotel in 4 hours and 30 minutes. The return to the Cancun airport from Merida is at 6:15am every day for the same fare as the Cancun-Merida trip ($30 USD). If you are sending clients to Merida and they plan to use the bus line, we recommend you consider using this route as well.

THE

PROGRAM The ASTA Destination Expo gives you everything that you need to expand your sales portfolio and make the Yucatan your hottest and most lucrative destination.

THURSDAY, MARCH 27 • 8:00am-5:00pm – Registration Open • 8:30-10:30am – Hispanic Caucus • 11:00am-1:00pm – YPS Summit • 11:00am-1:00pm – Optional Arrival Day Activities: Tequila Tasting or Shopping Tour of Merida • 11:30am-12:30pm – ICPC Meeting • 2:30-4:00pm – International Travel Agent Summit • 6:30-9:00pm – Official Welcome Reception and Dinner at La Quinta Montes Molina

Hosted by: Mexico Tourism Board & Yucatan Tourism Board

FRIDAY, MARCH 28 • 8:00am-5:00pm – Registration Open • 8:45-10:00am – General Session with Breakfast • 10:30-11:45am – Educational Breakouts* • 12:15-3:30pm – Trade Show with Lunch* • 3:45-5:00pm – Educational Breakouts* • 5:30-7:30pm – Reception and Dinner at the Mundo Maya Museum

Hosted by: Mexico Tourism Board & Yucatan Tourism Board

SATURDAY, MARCH 29 • 8:00am-1:00pm – Registration Open • 8:30-9:45am – Educational Breakouts* • 10:00-12:00pm – Trade Show with Appointments with Exhibitors* • 12:00pm – Departures for Half Day Complimentary Sightseeing Tours* • 7:00pm – Closing Reception and Dinner OPENING NIGHT EVENT La Quinta Montes Molina is a mansion in the heart of Merida that is open as a museum during the day and will be your first taste of the warm Yucatan culture in the evening.

This is the perfect opportunity to see the inside of an elegant, authentic, fully and beautifully furnished Paseo Montejo mansion, with the original chandeliers, mirrors, antique furnishings, rugs, paintings, statues and sculptures, Limoge china and Chiristofle silverware.

SUNDAY, MARCH 30 • 8:00am-12:00pm – Registration Open • 9:00am – Departures for Full Day Sightseeing Tours* *In order to receive the ASTA Destination Specialist Certificate, you must attend three education sessions, visit the trade show, complete eight appointments with exhibitors and complete one sightseeing tour.

EDUCATIONAL BREAKOUTS WILL INCLUDE: Destination Weddings in the Yucatan Experiencing the Mayan World: Sustainable Travel in the Yucatan Hacienda Splendor Merida Chic Nature and Adventure The Perfect Match: The Yucatan and Riviera Maya Tequila Tasting with a Master Tequilero Unique Gastronomy in the Yucatan The Yucatan Experienceo Program is subject to change www.ASTA.org/ADE - 5

EDUCATION BREAKOUTS ASTA has brought in the leading subject matter experts to provide you with strategic sale training and industry-best practices.

DESTINATION WEDDINGS in the Yucatan

This seminar is designed to open your eyes and the opportunity to the growing business of destination weddings Yucatan style. According to “The Knot Market Intelligence 2012”, each year 350,000 American couples select a destination wedding, representing 24% of all weddings. Mexico is the second largest recipient of destination weddings outside the United States and Yucatan receives much of this business. From haciendas to archaeological sites, our experts will share their vast knowledge of destination weddings and events.

Subject Matter Experts Panel includes: Aracely López DÁcosta, Romance Director, Mexico Tourism Board; Angelica Espinosa, Sales Director of Catherwood Travels; Maria Del Mar Montalvo, owner of Baku Events

EXPERIENCING the MAYAN WORLD: Sustainable Travel in the Yucatan

The Mayan culture in the Yucatan is alive in its people, traditions, and folklore. The Maya were able to create a great civilization in a tropical forest climate. Not an easy accomplishment. Carola Diez, Director of Fundación del Mundo Maya will share with you her passion for the region’s history and cultural values. Learn how each tourist can become an agent of economic change and social development for rural Mayan communities throughout the Yucatan.

Expert Speaker: Carola Diez, Director of Fundación del Mundo Maya

HACIENDA SPLENDOR

Haciendas in Mexico were the basis of an economic system begun by the Spaniards in the 16th century.

Over time, Haciendas became symbols of wealth and culture with ornate colonial architecture adorned with furnishings and art from around the world. The haciendas of Yucatan saw their heyday in the early 1900 when the local economy was booming due to the sisal fiber that was used to make rope, cord and twine. A trip to the Yucatan would be incomplete without visiting some of the most popular haciendas transformed into luxury hotels and restaurants within a few minutes’ drive of Merida. This session will highlight the keys to selling haciendas and turning your client’s interest into an amazing journey.

Subject Matter Experts Panel includes: Jorge Escalante, President of the Entrepreneur Tourism Council of Yucatan; Christina Baker, owner of Hacienda Xcanatun; Jose Portocarrero, general manager of the The Haciendas, Luxury Collection of Starwood; Lena Khee Tang, Hacienda Petak

MERIDA CHIC

In this session you will learn what makes Merida so special and what unique features you can offer your clients looking for a different Yucatan experience. Merida was geographically cut off from mainland Mexico until the 1950’s. Its wealthy residents had easier access to the U.S., Cuba and Europe than the rest of Mexico. This isolation sent the city’s affluent community traveling to Europe (particularly France), where they imported lavish goods and European styles. Merida became known as the “Paris to the West”. Sumptuous mansions and palaces still line the elegant Paseo de Montejo, a tropical Champs Elysées just blocks from the main square.

Today Merida is a cosmopolitan and cultural destination with world class attractions including museums, performing arts, historic houses, beautiful boutique hotel and haciendas as well as excellent shopping (Mayan art, sisal hammocks, unique native crafts).

Subject Matter Experts Panel includes: Mr. Richard Westell, General Manager of the Hyatt Merida; Mr. Stefano Marcelletti, owner of Casa Lecanda; Mr. Carol Kolozs, owner of Rosas & Xocolate; Mr. Ralph Leszinski, Presidente del Club de Polo de Yucatán 6 - www.ASTA.org/ADE

NATURE and ADVENTURE

The Mayans were known to be in sync with the earth. The Mayan ruins and archeology sites have taught us how carefully the Maya protected the land and created sustainable living environments. Today you and your travel clients can continue to explore the region’s vast natural wonders. Whether you are interested in reefs, mangroves, cenotes, animals, vegetation, diving, caves or dunes, Yucatan has everything to provide you with an outstanding experience. This seminar will teach you what Merida and the surrounding area can offer your adventure seeking clients. Come and learn about experiences that are not easily duplicated anywhere else in the world.

Expert Speaker: Ruben Encalada, owner of Maya Amazing

The PERFECT MATCH: The Yucatan and Riviera Maya

As a travel agent have you faced the dilemma of clients who want to travel together but described two different experiences? One wanted the beach with snorkeling and sailing while the other wanted culture, history and boutique accommodations. Now you can offer the perfect combination of Riviera Maya with the archeology and colonial architecture of Yucatan. Our expert presenters are the perfect combination of local knowledge and Yucatan expertise.

Subject Matter Experts Panel includes: Saul Ancona, Secretary of Tourism of the Yucatan and Dario Flota, Director of the Riviera Maya Tourism Board

TEQUILA Tasting with a Master Tequilero

Attend to this tasty, fun informative tequila tasting and Yucatan food pairing where tequila is taken as seriously as it deserves. You will be able to enjoy three different premium tequilas together with a tasting of local dishes. You will learn from a local chef and a Master Tequilero about tequila production, local ingredients history, culture and tasting notes.

UNIQUE GASTRONOMY in the Yucatan

The culinary delights of a typical Yucatan kitchen come from a mouthwatering mixture of European and Mexican flavors. A few decades back, the Yucatan Peninsula was considered to be too far away and too difficult to reach from the rest of Mexico. The peninsula located where the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico provided access to New Orleans, Cuba, Spain and France. The combination of recipes and ingredients blended from these traditions has resulted in the characteristic flavors of Yucatan cuisine. Come learn what separates Yucatan cuisine from the rest of Mexico!

Subject Matter Experts Panel includes: Susanna Palazuelos, a Mexican icon in Mexican gastronomy; Roberto Solis, Owner and chef of Restaurant Nectar; Pedro Hevia, Owner and chef of Restaurant Kuuk

The YUCATAN Experience

When you hear Yucatan most think of Cancun but for visitors seeking a “real Mexico” experience, Yucatan offers many more diverse cultural options while providing ample visitor comforts. Come and discover this Mundo Maya region with its splendid archaeological sites, natural wonders, colonial cities, haciendas, contemporary Mayan culture, and eco-adventure opportunities. In this session you will get the perspective of a true “Italian Lover of the Yucatan”, Antonio Zanca, Owner of Viajes Meca.

Expert Speaker: Antonio Zanca, Owner of Viajes Meca

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SIGHT-

SEEING ASTA is offering great options for sightseeing tours. You will have the opportunity to select from one of these complimentary half day sightseeing excursions.

You will also be able to purchase a full day sightseeing tour for $50.

Space will be made available in the order by which delegates register.

We encourage early registration.

HALF DAY TOURS on March 29 - Complimentary Hacienda Tour Hacienda Tour at Sotuta de Peon

Sotuta de Peon is the only henequen/sisal fiber hacienda in the area that continues to work as it did 100 years ago. A visit to Hacienda Sotuta de Peón, located 45 minutes from Mérida, is an opportunity to travel into the past. During the 2.5 hour tour, you will learn about the origins of henequen and details of the henequen boom here in Yucatán. The process, which begins with the planting, continues on to the peeling, then drying and finally the packing, is interestingly explained and the transformation from threads to ropes to textiles is shown.

This is a walking tour and you will have the chance to see the centuries old machinery actually working.

Don’t be shy about volunteering to help the workers – you may be surprised by the strength required!

After seeing and participating in this interesting part of the process, the visitors will get climb aboard mule drawn platforms, called trucks, and take a ride into the henequen fields. Along the way, they will stop off at a Mayan home where a Mayan gentleman will show you his home and the henequen plants.

You will enjoy a regional lunch at the Hecienda at the end of the tour. The sisal fiber played a fascinating role in the development of the Yucatan, this is your opportunity to participate in that history!

Izamal – A Magical Town!

Mexico has 35 towns that are considered magical and one of them is located just 45 minutes from Merida. What makes a town magical? According to the requirements to be considered magical by the Mexican government, the town or city must be small with rich historical tradition. The first thing that you will notice is that the town is painted yellow… all the colonial buildings, the market, the huge convent, everything! The next thing that stands out are the cobblestone streets and the iron lampposts that give the town a tranquil ambiance. The sound of the clippity-clop of the horses pulling calesas or carriages will surely make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. As you explore the city you will see a town that is alive with three cultures – the ancient Mayan, the colonial and the present day bustling Izamal.

You will enjoy your time discovering the Mayan pyramids, colonial-style buildings, parks and plazas, horses and buggies and enjoy lunch at a local eatery. See for yourself what makes a town magical!

Maya Astronomy at Dzibilchaltun and Lunch at Progreso Beach

Famed for its Temple of the Seven Dolls, Dzibilchaltún is situated and constructed so the rays of the sun will produce a startling effect on the spring and fall equinoxes. Around 1590, an open chapel was built in the central plaza, constructed of stones taken from ancient structures on site, extending the city’s two thousand year history into the Spanish era. Visit its beautiful open cenote, notable for being placed practically at ground level. After this, a visit to the port of Progreso, a quiet town by the beach where you will have a regional lunch with botanas and drinks at the malecón – the beachside promenade.

Enjoy the cool breezes off the Gulf. The water is clear and very shallow – great for swimming!

Merida City Tour – Explore Mérida!

Merida is a city that preserves its rich architectural heritage like no other. Merida’s map reveals the traces of T’ho, a underlying pre-Hispanic city, and sharp observers can imagine the history of the city from its neighborhoods and buildings, distinguishing between colonial, Porifirian (late nineteenth and early twentieth century), and modern building styles. Travel its shady avenues, lined with exquisite mansions from the end of the 19th century, when henequen wealth reached its zenith and the fiber’s producers sought to reaffirm their prestige and world-view in architecture (Yucatecan prosperity far exceeded that of any other part of Mexico at the time). The city is also famous for having been the birthplace of noted musicians and poets. You will also visit the anthropology museum, the cathedral, famous restored buildings in the city center and will enjoy time for browsing in local artisans’ shops. A regional lunch will be provided in a local restaurant.

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FULL DAY TOURS on Sunday, March 30 - $50 per person Celestun

Situated approximately one hour outside of Merida is the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve. A boat ride around the reserve will offer you the opportunity to observe and photograph the vast flocks of flamingos and hundreds of other birds that live in the area. You will have the chance to swim in the clear, cool fresh water springs that bubble to the surface and drain into the estuary; a stop to view the “petrified forest”; and a ride through the marshes that penetrate the dense mangrove forests that flank the estuary.

You will be amazed by the hundreds of bird species that you will encounter in one place! Lunch will be provided in a beach side restaurant.

Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza, voted one of the new seven world wonders, is a must see when traveling to the Yucatan.

The Mayans took control of this area, which had originally been built by the Toltec’s, in the late 10th Century. After reaching its peak between the 11th and 12th centuries, the space was abandoned. The dominant ruin in Chichen Itza is the towering Castle, also known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan. The Castle has 365 stairs, one for every day of the year, which archeologists attribute to the Maya´s knowledge of the skies. The Castle is built over a series of previous constructions. An interior staircase leads to the Throne of the Red Jaguar, a chamber containing a Chac-Mool and a stunning, pop-eyed jaguar.

The Temple of the Jaguar gives access to the sprawling Ball Game field where priests played religious ball games. Lunch will be provided in a regional restaurant.

Hacienda Sotuta de Peon & Swimming in a Cenote

Sotuta de Peon is the only henequen/sisal fiber hacienda in the area that continues to work as it did 100 years ago. A visit to Hacienda Sotuta de Peón, located 45 minutes from Mérida, is an opportunity to travel into the past. You will learn about the origins of henequen and details of the henequen boom here in Yucatán. The process, which begins with the planting, continues on to the peeling, then drying and finally the packing, is interestingly explained and the transformation from threads to ropes to textiles is shown.

This is a walking tour and you will have the chance to see the centuries old machinery actually working.

Don’t be shy about volunteering to help the workers – you may be surprised by the strength required!

After seeing and participating in this interesting part of the process, the visitors will get climb aboard mule drawn platforms, called trucks, and take a ride into the henequen fields. Along the way, they will stop off at a Mayan home where a Mayan gentleman will show you his home and the henequen plants. Your truck will then take you to a beautiful cenote where you will have the opportunity to relax and swim in the crystal clear water. You will enjoy a regional lunch at the Hecienda during the tour.

The sisal fiber played a fascinating role in the development of the Yucatan, this is your opportunity to participate in that history!

Uxmal

Uxmal means ‘built 3 times’ in the Mayan language and though its name is a mystery, its beauty is not.

As a World Heritage site, it is one of the best restored archaeological sites in the Yucatan and certainly one of the most magnificent. It is famed for their elaborate Puuc-style architecture, whose principal buildings are aligned to observe astronomical events. Uxmal comes to life before your eyes and your visit becomes a once-in-a-lifetime learning opportunity. We visit the Pyramid of the Magician and the Palace of the Governor—two of the finest pre-Hispanic Mexican structures in existence—as well as the Nunnery Quadrangle and the House of the Turtles. Lunch will be provided in Hacienda Ochil during the tour. www.ASTA.org/ADE - 9

BOUTIQUE

HOTEL STAYS PRE- AND POST-CONFERENCE

PART OF THE CHARM OF MERIDA AND THE YUCATAN IS THE MANY BOUTIQUE HOTELS AND HACIENDAS THAT ARE TUCKED INTO THE CITY AND THE SURROUNDING AREA.

We invite you to take advantage of the rates being offered to ASTA Destination Expo and experience the magic of these properties before or after the Expo!

To book a room at any of these properties, please contact Lupita Molina (guadalupe@ kgroup.com.mx) with the KGroup. She will help you choose the perfect property and assist with all your booking needs.

CASA LECANDACASA LECANDA BOUTIQUE HOTEL

MANSION MERIDAMANSION MERIDA

http://www.casalecanda.com/

http://www.mansionmerida.mx/

Casa Lecanda is a small luxury boutique hotel located within the historical center of Mérida, Yucatán. Built in a completely restored traditional Yucatecan home, the hotel has been designed to retain the original Meridian style with points of European luxury so prevalent in the golden age of Merida’s Sisal barons. Painstaking attention to detail, architecture, and landscaping provides guests with a uniquely local experience and a sanctuary within the city; a refuge of serenity, privacy and relaxation.

The hotel, a French style XIX century mansion compromising 14 differently furnished suites, was the private residence of one Yucatan’s prominent citizens, Mr. Felipe G. Cantón Pachón It has been lovingly restored by his grandson to its original splendor.

Rates Offered: Patio Rooms: $199.92 Balcony Rooms: $238 Garden Rooms: $276.08 All rates are in US Dollars and include a 16% Sales Tax and 3% State Tourism Tax, per night (double occupancy).

Rates Offered: Imperial Suite: $450 Privilege Suites: $315 Grandeur Suites: $225 All prices are in US Dollars and taxes are included (16% Sales Tax and 3% Tourism Tax), per night (double occupancy).

Rates include: Daily continental breakfast Welcome cocktail drink Internet and Wi-Fi access

Rates include: Daily American breakfast and newspaper Welcome cocktail drink (alcohol free) Fresh flowers inside the rooms Fruit baskets Parking

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All 14 suites are different from each other, are very spacious and richly furnished. Frescoes, done manually, enrich the environment giving a harmonious, unique and spectacular feature.

LA HACIENDA XCANATUNLA HACIENDA XCANATUN

CASA AZUL

http://www.xcanatun.com/index_i.htm

http://www.casaazulhotel.com/en/

A XVIII Century “henequen” (sisal) hacienda transformed into an exclusive small luxury hotel with 18 individually decorated suites.

Located in the heart of the Mayan World: Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico.

There are no TV’s in the suites – this is a place to switch off. A place to read, recharge, relax; to sleep, rest, and dream.

This beautiful house, located a few steps away from the most important avenue, Paseo de Montejo, built on the XIX century and declared Historical Monument preserves its original architecture; it has become a passage in the history of the Porfirian age in Yucatan of the XVIII and XIX centuries by being living example of the lifestyle of one of the most important periods in the history of Yucatan and most of all of Merida.

The reconstruction of this noble 18th century estate took five years of intensive work. Heart and soul was put into rebuilding Xcanatun — bringing back the luster and beauty of its original form. Xcanatun means Tall Stone House in Maya

The henequen boom, which gave the entity wealth and prosperity, and lived its best days under the dictatorship of Porfirio Diaz, whose power ended with the 1910 Mexican Revolution.

Their Casa de Piedra Restaurant has won the 5 Star Diamond Award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences for five years in a row.

This boom allowed that the city of Merida change its appearance with the construction of a large number of splendid residences for the people who worked the henequen and wholesalers as well as large urban developments.

The Casa de Piedra Restaurant has won the 5 Star Diamond Award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences for five years in a row.

Rates Offered: Superior Room: $199.21 Deluxe Suite: $224.20 Master Suite: $245.62 All rates are in US Dollars and include a 16% Sales Tax and 3% State Tourism Tax, plus $10 USD per night Hotel service charge (single or double occupancy).

Rate Offered: Junior King: $240 Junior Double: $240 Master Suite: $280 All rates are in US Dollars and include a 16% Sales Tax and 3% State Tourism Tax.

STARWOOD LUXURY COLLECTION HACIENDAS Hacienda Temozón (located 45 minutes from Merida) Visit Website

Hacienda Santa Rosa (located 1 hour from Merida) Visit Website

Hacienda San José (located 1 hour from Merida) Visit Website

Hacienda Uayamón (located 2 hours and 30 minutes from Merida) Visit Website

Hacienda Puerta Campeche (located 2 hours from Merida) Visit Website

Rates Offered: Single or double: $186 All rates are in US Dollars and includes a 16% Sales Tax, 5% service charge and 3% State Tourism Tax.

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CANCUN PRE-

STAYS

If you plan to head to Mexico a few days in advance of the conference, we invite you to stay in Cancun at either the Fiesta Americana Condesa or Live Aqua Cancun at ASTA discounted rates.

FIESTA AMERICANA CONDESA

http://www.fiestamericana.com/cancun/hotel-condesa-cancun-all-inclusive Rates ASTA

Dates

Single

Double

Triple

PRE

23 to 27 March

$198.80*

$238.80*

$338.80*

LIVE AQUA CANCUN

http://www.liveaqua.com/en/hotel-live-aqua-all-inclusive Rates ASTA

Dates

Single

Double

Triple

PRE

23 to 27 March

$254.00*

$294.00*

$404.00*

*Rates include all inclusive plan in USD. To book a room at either hotel, please send an e-mail to ecommerceai@posadas.com with the following information: 1. Hotel: 2. Guest Full Name: 3. Check In date: 4. Check Out Date: 5. Adults: 6. Children: Extra-charge for children may apply for Fiesta Americana Condesa and no children are permitted in Live Aqua as it is an adult only retreat.

7. Promocode: ASTA13A To Note: Reservations will be taken up to March the 18th. A credit card will be required to guarantee the reservation.

PRE-

TOUR On March 27 it will be time to head to Merida for the start of the Expo, but before you do, we invite you to take a tour of Chichen Itza located midway between Cancun and Merida.

DAY TOUR OF CHICHEN ITZA** and Transfer from Cancun to Merida Chichen Itza, voted one of the new seven world wonders, is a must see when traveling to the Yucatan.

The Mayans took control of this area, which had originally been built by the Toltec’s, in the late 10th Century. After reaching its peak between the 11th and 12th centuries, the space was abandoned. The dominant ruin in Chichen Itza is the towering Castle, also known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan. The Castle has 365 stairs, one for every day of the year, which archeologists attribute to the Maya´s knowledge of the skies. The Castle is built over a series of previous constructions. An interior staircase leads to the Throne of the Red Jaguar, a chamber containing a Chac-Mool and a stunning, pop-eyed jaguar. The Temple of the Jaguar gives access to the sprawling Ball Game field where priests played religious ball games. Lunch will be provided in a regional restaurant.

The tour will depart from the Fiesta Americana Condesa in the morning on March 27th. You will arrive in Merida with plenty of time to attend the Opening Night event.

Tour Rate: $50.00 USD per passenger To book this tour, please contact Lupita Molina, KGroup. Lupita can be reached via email at guadalupe@kgroup.com.mx.

If you are not planning to spend time in Cancun, don’t worry! You will have another opportunity to tour Chichen Itza as part of the day tours offered on March 30.

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POST-

TOUR#1 Extend your stay to experience the full Merida, Yucatan. You will return home to share your experiences with your clients so that they too will be asking for you to send them to this captivating and enchanting city.

WALLED CITY OF CAMPECHE and Surroundings

Walled City of Campeche and Surroundings, staying at Hacienda Puerta Campeche DAY 1, SUNDAY, MARCH 30 AM: We will visit Becal, a town famous for its production of “jipi japa” hats. Catherwood’s expert guide will take you to the artisan’s workshops where you can watch them create their crafts first-hand.

LUNCH: Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of Campeche’s fine restaurants.

PM: We continue with a visit to fascinating Campeche, built on the site of a Maya city. For centuries it was one of Mexico’s most important ports and a frequent target of pirates, necessitating its justly famous city walls, parts of which still stand.

At the end of the day, your driver will transfer you to your hotel in Campeche. This fascinating city is a UNESCO world heritage site, with a beautifully restored downtown district. You will stay at the Hacienda Puerta Campeche, a block of restored buildings, now a five-star hotel and part of the Starwood Luxury Collection, in the center of Campeche, near the city’s ancient protective wall.

DAY 2, MONDAY, MARCH 31 AM: Today’s adventure is a visit to Edzna. This once-great regional capital allows us a view of several successive architectural styles -- Peten, Chenes, Puuc, and Tardio. Its inhabitants also developed an advanced system of hydraulic works. We will visit the Main Plaza where most of the monumental buildings at the site are located as well as the Great Acropolis, which holds the beautiful Five-Story Building, and the Small Acropolis, where we can appreciate an impressive modeled stucco mask.

LUNCH: Lunch today will be at lovely Hacienda Uayamon.

PM: We will enjoy of a delicious regional dinner and great music at Hacienda Puerta Campeche.

DAY 3, TUESDAY, APRIL 1 Your driver will take you to the Merida airport for your flight back home. You will depart Hacienda Puerta Campeche at 7:00am and arrive at Merida International Airport (MID) at approximately 9:00am.

Tour Rates (rates dependent on number of attendees): 2 Passengers: $1,349 4 Passengers: $1,007 6 Passengers: $808 8 Passengers: $708 10-14 Passengers: $650 15-18 Passengers: $575

Farewell dinner at Puerta Campeche with traditional music (alcoholic beverages are not included) Two day tour with English speaking guide (No meals included) Entrance fees Traveler insurance

To Book This Tour, please contact: Ana Paulina Rubio, Single room supplement $150 USD Catherwood Travels Paulina.rubio@catherwoodtravels.com The rate is subject to federal taxes 16% VAT, 3% Lodging P. +(52) 999 920 2632 Tax and 5% of service charge.

Reference Code: ASTA Destination Expo Rate includes: Payment information: Catherwood Travels accepts payTwo nights at Hacienda Puerta Campeche, ments by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, and American American Breakfast included.

Express), deposits into our bank accounts, and wire transPrivate transportation with water and fers. Credit cards are charged in pesos at the exchange rate soft drinks in the vehicle published on the Banamex bank web site (www.banamex. com) on the day of the charge. Credit card payments will incur an additional 3% service charge. www.ASTA.org/ADE - 13

POST-

TOUR#2 Go deep into the region and explore some of the most treasured places on an excursion rich with culture and cuisine, sure to fit every traveler’s interest.

MARVELS OF THE MAYA WORLD, staying at Hacienda San Jose Cholul DAY 1, SUNDAY, MARCH 30 AM: Today we will explore Ek Balam, a lesser known, but magnificent walled city and ascend to the extraordinary structure, covered in stucco sculpture, that crowns its pyramid. Its magnificent artistry was preserved for eternity when the ancient Maya buried it to protect the tomb hidden within.

LUNCH: Dine al fresco beneath the shade of a magnificent tree by the entrance to Xchen cenote. As always, the surprising tastes of traditional Yucatan cuisine are accompanied by Catherwood’s five-star style and service.

At the end of the day, your driver will bring you to magnificent Hacienda San José Cholul. Magnificent Hacienda San José Cholul is an impeccably restored hacienda dating to the seventeenth century, now a five-star hotel and part of the Starwood Luxury Collection. Explore its tranquil gardens, swim its dramatic pool and breathtaking cenote, relax at the Maya spa. Dine on delicious local recipes in and out of doors, in high back-country style.

DAY 2, MARCH 31 AM: Today we will explore the Maya Underworld at Loltún Cave. A limestone cavern in the southern Yucatán’s Puuc hills, Loltún was an important Maya ceremonial site in ancient times. In addition to breathtaking natural formations you’ll see fascinating artifacts the Maya left as offerings to their gods LUNCH: We visit Hacienda Xocnaceh—a private property open only to Catherwood travelers. At its zenith, Xocnaceh produced cattle and henequen, the “green gold” that brought tremendous wealth to the Yucatán in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A delicious Catherwood lunch is served in the chapel ruins at Xocnaceh and after lunch, there’s swimming in the water tank, converted into a pool, exploration of the archaeological site, or just plain relaxation.

DAY 3, APRIL 1 Your driver will take you to the Merida airport for your flight back home. You will depart Hacienda San José Cholul at 7:00am and arrive at Merida International Airport (MID) at approximately 8:30am.

Tour Rates (rates dependent on number of attendees): 2 Passengers: $1,407 4 Passengers: $984 6 Passengers: $823 8 Passengers: $742 10-14 Passengers: $730 15-18 Passengers: $660

To Book This Tour, please contact: Ana Paulina Rubio, Catherwood Travels Paulina.rubio@catherwoodtravels.com P. +(52) 999 920 2632 Reference Code: ASTA Destination Expo

Payment information: Catherwood Travels accepts payments by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express), deposits into our bank accounts, and wire transSingle room supplement $150 USD fers. Credit cards are charged in pesos at the exchange rate The rate is subject to federal taxes 16% VAT, 3% Lodging published on the Banamex bank web site (www.banamex.

Tax and 5% of service charge. com) on the day of the charge. Credit card payments will Rate includes incur an additional 3% service charge.

Two nights at Hacienda San Jose Cholul, A merican Breakfast included Private transportation with water and soft drinks in the vehicle Two day tour with English speaking guide and lunch at Xchen and Xocnaceh (4 course menu, drinks included) Entrance fees Traveler insurance 14 - www.ASTA.org/ADE

ABOUT

MERIDA Merida is captivating and enchanting city which is experiencing a contemporary and cultural renaissance. With magnificent pastel mansions, a flourishing restaurant scene and a booming renewal is making this city a vacationers and taste-makers haven.

Merida’s historical downtown district hosts an unforgettable cultural evening such as the traditional Yucatan “jarana” (dance) presented Monday evenings in front of the City Hall and on music fills the air with the salsa and cumbia rhythems each Sunday evening.

Saturday you are treated to folk dancing, comedy, mariachi, marimba and romantic trova music. Within the cultural and performing arts centers near Merida Main Square, you will find theater presentations; folk dances, movies and scenic arts at the Merida Theater located just a few steps away from the City Hall.

As a cosmopolitan city with a population of 725,000 inhabitants, Merida has retains its colonial air and the majesty of its buildings with a marked French influence from the beginning of the last century.

Buildings to see are La Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, the Government Palace, the Santa Isabel Chapel and Santa Ana, Santa Lucía and Santiago park.

Merida’s downtown is built around a large plaza and is characterized

by Colonial-era buildings and pastel, European-style mansions. The city hosts a municipal market with artisan crafts and fresh produce, as well as several interesting museums, including an archeology and anthropology museum and a contemporary art museum.

This delightful city makes a great starting point for visiting the nearby Mayan archaeological sites of Uxmal, Dibilchaltun Puuc and Chichen Itza, as well as the incredible cenotes (or “sinkholes”)—caves that are filled with the crystal clear fresh water of the peninsula’s subterranean rivers.

Going an hour and half toward the west coast, you can delight in Celestun, a natural exhibition that shows thousands of pink flamingos.

Twenty to thirty minutes north of Merida is the cruise port city of Pro-

Merida Yucatan

Mexico Mexico City City

Campeche Campeche

Cancun

Isla de Cozumel Quintana Roo

Chetumal

Villahermosa

greso and other famous beaches of Malecon, Chicxulub, San Benito and Uaymitun. See below for more details on the beaches around Progreso.

GEOGRAPHY

Merida is located in the Northwest part of the state of Yucatan, which occupies the northern portion of the Yucatan Peninsula. The city is also located in the Chicxulub Crater. It has a very flat topography and is only 30 feet (9 m) above sea level. The land outside of Merida is covered with smaller scrub trees and former sisal fields. Almost no surface water exists, but several cenotes (underground springs and rivers) are found across the region.

The more affluent neighborhoods are located to the north and the most densely populated areas are to the south. The historic center area is becoming increasingly popular with American and other expats who are restoring the classic colonial structures.

WEATHER

Merida features a tropical wet and dry climate. The city lies in the trade wind belt close to the Tropic of Cancer, with the prevailing wind from the east. Merida’s climate is hot and humidity is moderate to high, depending on the time of year. The average annual high temperature is 33 °C (91 °F), ranging from 28 °C (82 °F) in January to 36 °C (97 °F) in May. The rainy season runs from June through October – March weather is the 90s during the day and high 60s at night.

TIME ZONE

The time zone for Merida is Central Daylight Time, which is 1 hour behind Eastern Daylight Time.

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CELL PHONE USAGE

Because each company and plan is different, attendees should check with their cell phone service provider to see what type of coverage is available.

ELECTRICAL AND PLUG OUTLET REQUIREMENTS

Electricity in Mexico is 110-120 volts, similar to the United States and Canada. Attendees traveling to Mexico with a device that does not accept this voltage or outlet will need a converter and/or adapter.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Merida attracts visitors from North America and Europe, and also has a growing community of expats who enjoy the city’s winter climate and blossoming arts scene. Colonial homes in the city have been converted to boutique hotels; galleries, art and cooking schools. Some visitors opt to stay at one of the luxury haciendas in the countryside that offer spa services and eco-tours of the Yucatan.

At the time of this publishing, Merida has 83 hotels, 60 B&Bs, 35 specialty lodging facilities and 65 vacation rentals. Prices range from under $100 to $650 for the ‘eye for simple elegance and sheik design’ the Historical Luxury Hacienda.

DINING

Yucatan food is its own unique style and is very different from what most people consider “Mexican” food. It includes influences from the local Mayan culture, as well as Caribbean, Mexican, European and Middle Eastern cultures.

The signature flavors of Mayan cuisine are sour orange, hot habanero chiles, achiote (a regional spice) and roasted meats, but Merida also is a cosmopolitan city where international chefs are incorporating local ingredients, including tropical fruits and fresh fish in modern culinary creations. Many restaurants offer setting in beautifully restored hacienda with an outdoor dining room that faces a lush garden to enjoy a 16 - www.ASTA.org/ADE

leisurely dinner by candlelight, under the stars, surrounded by exotic flowers and plants.

SHOPPING

Like many Mexican tourist centers, vendors offer a variety of colorful souvenirs. Top-quality local products include the famed Yucatan hammocks, lacework and linens and Panama-style hats. Regional clothing is another good buy: men’s guayaberas and tropical shirts; and women’s embroidered tops or huipils considered to be handmade wearable art, simple cotton dresses and rebozos which are long flat lightweight shawls.

CURRENCY

The currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). The exchange rate from U.S. dollars and other foreign currencies to the peso fluctuates daily. Exchange rates can be viewed at www.xe.com. We encourage everyone to review the exchange rate prior to departure to verify an accurate rate. As of November 2013, the exchange rate was: 1 Mexican Peso = US $ 0.08 US Dollar (or 13.20 MXN to the U.S. dollar).

Credits cards are the most convenient form of payment when traveling in Mexico. Most businesses accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Presentation of official identification may be required before making a credit card transaction. Attendees should check with the credit card company for any fees involved in using a card internationally and to notify the bank that they will make purchases while in Merida. Failure to notify the credit card company may result in the credit card being rejected.

TRAVEL VISAS

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Mexico. Citizens of the United States are not required to obtain a visa for a stays up to 180 days. If traveling to Mexico from outside the U.S., please check your

entry requirements at http://mexico.visahq.com/.

If you require an official invitation in order to apply for your visa, please contact meetings@asta.org

TRAVEL WARNINGS IN MEXICO

The U.S. State Department issued a travel warning for Mexico in November 2012 which is still in effect. As of May 2013, for the Merida and Chichen Itza travel destinations no advisory are in effect.

Merida

Yucatan M E X I C O

Merida is considered one of the safest cities in the country. To view the travel warning specific to Mexico, visit http://travel.state.gov

BEACHES IN AND NEAR PROGRESO, YUCATAN (20 – 30 minutes north of Merida)

Puerto Progreso - The an important cruise port in the area, is only 20 minutes from major resorts in Merida. It is home to beautiful beaches and calm waters make it a popular destination for tourists.

Malecon - The main beach in the Progreso area is the Progreso Malecon. This is the epicenter of tourist activity along the town. It is a wide, white sand beach along a beautiful blue coastline. Tourists come here to enjoy the sun, lounge chairs, umbrellas and many beach amenities. Take banana boat cruises, play volleyball, rent kayaks and use the public tables and chairs for eating. Some restaurants along the shore will bring your food out to you if you ask. The beach can be quite crowded when the ships are in port or when the weather is hot and the locals flock to the beach for relief.

Chicxulub - Chicxulub is a beach located just east of Progreso where there are few tourists and a particularly nice though narrow sandy beach. This area is perhaps best known for an event that happened here 65 million years ago when a meteor that struck, causing the biggest explosion ever known on the surface of Earth. The fallout from the impact left a crater 90 miles in diameter that is no longer visible today and is suspected to be the cause of the extinction of the dinosaurs.

San Benito - For a wide, spacious beach with very few people around to share it with, San Benito is a wonderful place to kick back and enjoy some peace and quiet on the Yucatan. It is a bit farther to the east from Progreso than Chicxulub, but it is still relatively close, you can get there in less than 20 minutes. The only downside to this beautiful sandy getaway is a lack of public transportation in the area. For San Benito beach you will need to have a rental car.

Uaymitun - You can visit Uaymitun for the day using ample public transportation from Chicxulub or Progreso. It will take approximately 12 minutes from Chicxulub and are among the best beaches in the region. You and your clients may want to rent a vacation home right on the beach. This may be an option for your clients who want luxury away for everyone. Rent in the area is pricey, and there are lots of options to choose from, but please be aware there are no stores or services in the area. Uaymitun has a flamingo sanctuary that is also a good place to see while visiting the area.

EXPLORE THE UNEXPECTED

IN MERIDA

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DISCOVER THE

JOIN US AT

ASTA DESTINATION EXPO

UNEXPEC TED...

(March 27-30, 2014) and explore the captivating and enchanting Merida

REGISTER at www.ASTA.org/ADE

$409 } ASTA/NACTA Member Travel Agents $509 } Non-Member Travel Agents $609 } Guests

Rates go up January 1, 2014. Sightseeing tours and pre- and post options are on a first come basic.

Be one of the first 300 travel agents to register and the Yucatan will pay $50 of your registration fee.

Use discount code: YUCATAN

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN YOUR REGISTRATION? ӹӹ Focused, destination education sessions you can’t find anywhere else

ӹӹ Personal connections with local suppliers on the exhibition floor and throughout the event

ӹӹ Admission to lavish evening networking events

ӹӹ Complimentary sightseeing and specially priced pre- and post-tour options

There will be various opportunities for suppliers to network with the travel agency community. Interested parties please contact Sue Sheats, ssheats@asta.org.

ASTA Destination Expo 2014

March 27-30 Merida, Yucatan, Mexico Expo sponsors:

Tourism Board

YUCATÁN

To register visit:

www.ASTA.org/ADE

Questions:, contact us at:

800.ASK.ASTA MEETINGS@ASTA.ORG