HM&T 2008 Nov

contents NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2008 | VOL/ 10 | NO/6

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14 | Cover story: Linda Pereira - International Meeting Planner Linda Pereira is the senior partner and CEO of the Organizer Communications Group. She is also Executive Director of CPL Events. As a PCO (Professional Congress Organiser) she is one of the first graduates in this speciality and probably the only one in Portugal. Linda is also a qualified educator, and international speaker. She is recognized by her peers as one of the top 100 Meeting Industry Professionals in the World.

Linda Pereira will teach the Certified Diversity Meeting Professional (CDMP) CDMP at the IAHMP Conference in San Diego

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18 Feature 18

| IAHMP Conference & Tradeshow

International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals 13th Annual Educational Conference & Tradeshow.

The Town & Country Resort & Convention Center

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Conference Agenda

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Speakers

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CDMP Program

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Sponsors & Participants

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Exhibitors

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Pre and Post Conference Tours Departments

Departments 6

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Editor’s Comments

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Industry Briefs

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Cuisine

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Lake Lanier Islands Resort announced the arrival of Anthony J. Burke as executive chef. Burke brings more than 25 years of experience with major resort and hotel brands to his position.

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Associations Update

More than 250 attendees from more than five Latin American countries and 25 U.S. states gathered in Miami to do transactions and celebrate the impressive growth of Latino hotel ownership at the first annual Hispanic Hotel Owners Association - Hotel, Development and Investment Conference, held at the Doral Resort and Spa in Miami, Florida.

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Travel Destination

Albuquerque, New Mexico - Well known attractions, The Sandia Mountains and Tramway, Holiday Luminarias, The Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum, and the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History.

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Meeting Planner Incentives

Meeting planners and association executives will have the chance to win an impressive 1-carat diamond solitaire being awarded by Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) at Holiday Showcase on December 16, 2008 in Chicago.

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International Destinations

The Villa Group, a leading privately owned real estate hospitality development company, announced that Villa La Estancia Nuevo Vallarta/Riviera Nayarit has completely finished construction and all areas are completely available to guests.

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Calendar of Events

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EDITOR’S COMMENTS

HispanicMeetingsTravel.com PUBLISHER GVR Public Relations Agency, Inc. www.gvragency.com EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Margarita G. Rodriguez EDITOR Steven Gonzalez Sgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com DESIGN & PRODUCTION MARGIL VILLARREAL DESIGN CREATIVE DIRECTOR - Margil Villarreal ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR - Iris Villarreal www.margilvillarreal.com

he end of the year is almost here and where did it go! It's been a year full of events and surprises. A year full of economic challenges but exciting possibilities for Americans who have elected a new president.

As the end of the year sets in we begin to focus on the year ahead in which we can once again accomplish goals we have set but did not meet in the out going year. Following the festive holiday season we get another opportunity to move forward, give thanks for the blessings we have been given and face the new calendar year with renewed energy.

Two leaders within the meetings industry who will not be with us are long time friend and mentor, Dr. Andrea Sigler who lost her battle with cancer this year. Only her closest friends new she was ill as she continued to plan events for the Asian Leaders Hall of Fame and the Connected International Meeting Professionals Association (CIMPA). She will be missed by all who knew her and will be remembered for her efforts to make Americans more aware of the Global world we live in. Jim Fausel was instrumental in promoting the meeting profession within the classroom at Arizona State University in Phoenix where he taught Meeting and Conference Management.

He was a constant participant in many industry events throughout the year and his knowledge of the industry and his dry wit will sorely be missed.

Houston, Texas was host to the Latin Grammy's 9th Annual awards, a musical extravaganza that took place on November 13, 2008. The event brought top Latino entertainers including Gloria Estefan, recognized as the Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year, who performed a tropical segment that featured Carlos Santana and Jose Feliciano. The top award winner was the Columbian singer

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L/R Dr. Antonio Flores president of the Hispanic Colleges and Universities (HACU) and his wife Maria are pictured with Cosette Gutierrez, Chair, Society of Hispanic MBAs' (NSHMBA) with Margaret Gonzalez at the Hilton America's reception prior to the Latin Grammy's.

Juanes who walked away with five awards. He was truly the most popular among the several thousand people who attended one of the most exciting and vibrant awards programs ever.

The entire show was covered by Univision to a worldwide audience placing Houston, Texas before millions of viewers that made our host for the evening the Houston CVB very happy.

The Latin Grammy's are estimated to bring $25 to $30 million in profits to the host city.

In this issue we present coverage on the 13th Annual Educational Conference for the Hispanic Meeting Professionals who this year begin implementing the Certified Diversity Meeting Professional in San Diego. Linda Pereira who is featured on the cover has already incorporated the program into a Master's level class at the University in Lisbon, Portugal. Ms. Pereira is a noted professional within the industry in Europe and is responsible for recognizing the need and value of the CDMP program. See the conference coverage staring on page 18 and the cover story beginning on page 14.

Hope you enjoy this issue that marks our 10th Anniversary. We thank our readers and our advertisers who have made the 10 years possible for Hispanic Meetings & Travel.

ADVERTISING STEVEN GONZALEZ sgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com MARIA GONZALEZ mdgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum, Sandia Peak Ski & Tram, Steven Edward, Margaret Gonzalez, Hispanic Hotels Owners Association, Linda Pereira, Maria Sarabia

PHOTOGRAPHY Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum, Associated Luxury Hotels, Benchmark Hospitality, Ralph Gonzalez, Lake Lanier Island Resort, Meet Minneapolis, Linda Pereira, San Diego CVB, World Tourism Awards

ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE 1322 Space Park, Suite A258 Houston, Texas 77058 281-333-1755 / 281-333-1996 (fax)

W E B PA G E www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com WEB MASTER - Margil Villarreal Hispanic Meetings & Travel, ISSN # 1527-8387 is owned and published bi-monthly by the GVR Public Relations Agency, Inc. at 1322 Space Park, Suite A258, Houston, Texas 77058. ©1999-2008 All rights Reserved. Hispanic Meetings & Travel cannot by held responsible for unsolicited material. The publisher does not

Saludos,

Margaret G onzález

assume any responsibility for any unsolicited material and will return only those accompanied by stamped self-addressed envelope. We reserve the right to edit all copy. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior permission of the publisher. Subscription rates: $30.00 per year within the USA, $52.50 in Canada, and $75.00 elsewhere. All subscriptions must be paid in U.S. currency. Single copies: U.S.

Margaret González, Founder & Editor-in-Chief

$5.00, Canada $8.75, and $12.50 elsewhere. Produced in the USA.

industrybriefs

N E W * F R E S H * P R O G R E S S I V E FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Alistair McEwan, International Advertising Director, New York Times representing Patrick Falconer, Managing Director-UK, Northern Europe, MEA, International Herald Tribune; Tony Potter, CEO, CHI Hotels and Resorts; Mohamed Shawfik, Chairman and Managing Director, Misr Travel, Egypt, accepting the award on behalf of Dr. Hawass, Neville Shulman, CBE, ViceChairman, Culture Committee, UK National Commission for UNESCO; Mark Roper, VP, Global Merchant Marketing, American Express Company, representing Donna Flora, VP, Travel Industry Relations, American Express Company; and Tom Nutley, President, Reed Travel Exhibitions.

11TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WORLD TOURISM AWARDS HONORS UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE CENTRE AND DR. ZAHI HAWASS, SECRETARY GENERAL EGYPT'S SUPREME COUNCIL OF ANTIQUITIES Presented at World Travel Market, Excel Centre, London he 11th Annual World Tourism Awards, co-sponsored by American Express Company (AMEX), Corinthia Hotels, International Herald Tribune (IHT) and Reed Travel Exhibitions (RTE), were presented at a special ceremony on November 11, 2008, at World Travel Market, Excel Centre, London. The 2008 Award Honorees are UNESCO World Heritage Centre and Dr. Zahi Hawass, Secretary General, Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities.

Inaugurated in 1997, The World Tourism Award was established to recognize "the extraordinary initiatives by individuals, companies, organizations, destinations and attractions for outstanding accomplishments in the travel industry." The 2008 World Tourism Award Recipients were recognized for their dedication to the preservation of natural and cultural heritage, one as an organization and the other as an individual.

Presenting the Awards on behalf of the sponsors were: Mark Roper, VP, Global Merchant Marketing, American Express Company, representing Donna Flora, CTIE, VP,

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Travel Industry Relations, American Express Company; Tony Potter, CEO CHI Hotels & Resorts; Alistair McEwan, International Advertising Director, New York Times, representing Patrick Falconer, Managing DirectorUK, Northern Europe, MEA, International Herald Tribune and Tom Nutley, President, Reed Travel Exhibitions.

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE CENTRE The award to UNESCO World Heritage Centre was presented in honor of "the organization's outstanding guidance, support and encouragement to 185 countries around the world by establishing and monitoring 875 World Heritage Sites. The sites protect and preserve the irreplaceable natural and cultural heritage for the future of all the people of the world." As part of the ceremony, two short films were shown featuring the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Dubrovnik, Croatia and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Accepting the award on behalf of UNESCO World

Heritage Centre was Neville Shulman, CBE, Vice-Chairman, Culture Committee, and UK National Commission for UNESCO. Representing Dubrovnik, was the Director of the Tourist Board, Ms. Jelka Tepsic; and from Tanzania were Bernard Murunya, Acting Conservator, Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA), Gerald Bigurube, Director General, Tanzania National Parks, Boniface Tumbu, Tourism Services Manager, NCAA; and Julius Kibebe, Assistant to the Minister of Natural Resources & Tourism.

DR. ZAHI HAWASS Dr. Zahi Hawass, Secretary General, Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, was honored for "his dynamic and committed leadership in developing and implementing innovative management plans to care for and protect Egypt's world famous ancient attractions, including several UNESCO World Heritage Sites." A short video at the ceremony featured Dr. Hawass onsite talking about some of his dramatic discoveries. Accepting the award on behalf of Dr. Hawass, was Mohamed Shawfik, Chairman and Managing Director, Misr Travel, Egypt.

The World Tourism Awards are presented in the form of a specially designed Steuben Crystal bridge entitled PARTNERSHIP, which "celebrates the bond of a supportive partnership which, like a bridge, spans both time and distance."

named InterContinental Chicago as the recipient of its prestigious "Chairman's Award" as the "ALHI Hotel of the Year." The award is given annually to the ALHI member hotel or resort that best displays extraordinary leadership with their property, exemplifies "Commitment to Performance" in the marketplace, and epitomizes the "partner relationship" with ALHI. The award was presented at ALHI's annual Industry Advisory Council conference, which was recently conducted at Chateau Élan Winery & Resort in Braselton, Georgia.

David Gabri (right), president and CEO of ALHI, and G.A. Taylor Fernley (left), president and CEO of Fernley & Fernley, Inc. and 2008 ALHI Industry Advisory Council Chairperson, presented the award to (from left): Daniel Preston, associate director of sales for the InterContinental Chicago, and Edward Andrews, general manager of the InterContinental Chicago.

ssociated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI), which serves the meetings and incentive marketplace with its National Sales

A

responsibilities for its membership of more than 120 premier Four- and Five-Diamond/ Star quality hotels and resorts worldwide,

For more information about Associated Luxury Hotels, or to inquire about a potential meeting at any of the ALHI member properties, contact your nearest ALHI National Sales Office, call the "ALHI Luxury Group Desk" toll-free at 866-303-ALHI (2544), or visit www.alhi.com .

www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 9

industrybriefs

Associated Luxury Hotels Presents "Chairman's Award" To InterContinental Chicago

industrybriefs

Minneapolis makes pitch to host Major League Baseball's All-Star Game in 2014 ayor R.T. Rybak, Minnesota Twins President Dave St. Peter, and Minnesota Twins Hall of Famer Tony Oliva, joined by representatives of the Minnesota Twins, the City of Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Meet Minneapolis and the Minnesota Ballpark Authority, today announced plans to make a pitch to host Major League Baseball's All-Star Game in 2014.

"Last week Minneapolis was in the international spotlight as we hosted the Republican National Convention, and more than 45,000 visitors to our city," said Mayor Rybak. "Today we are turning that momentum into new opportunities to showcase our city to the world, and play host to among the nation's top events."

"Working with Major League Baseball to secure an upcoming All Star Game is a top priority for the Minnesota Twins organization," said Dave St. Peter, president of the Minnesota Twins. "The Twins have a successful history of

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hosting the mid-summer classic and with our new, world-class ballpark opening in 2010, we know we can hit a homerun for this community and for Major League Baseball."

The All-Star game is the anchor of All-Star Week, a week of events and festivities that attract tens of thousands of baseball fans from across the United States. Like the Republican National Convention, the events also attract significant media attention. As many as 2,000 sports and travel journalists cover the events and again bring the national spotlight to Minneapolis and all it has to offer business and leisure travelers.

An All-Star Game at the new stadium would be the first in Minneapolis since 1985.

"Last week was without a doubt a big 'win,' it was also a try out as the eyes of meeting planners, attendees, delegates and journalists experienced how we hosted a convention of such size and high-visibility," said Melvin Tennant, president and CEO of Meet Minneapolis. "We showed repeatedly and consistently that Minneapolis has the infrastructure

of hotels, transportation options and entertainment outlets to make the city an attractive site for major meetings and events. A successful pitch and win for the All-Star Game could potentially mean more than $50 million in economic impact for Minneapolis."

Minneapolis-Saint Paul's successful hosting of the RNC. is among the most significant achievements in the convention industry, and gives Minneapolis a major stepping stone to book other major events. Meet Minneapolis officials are currently pursuing a number of major events and conventions, including the NCAA Men's Basketball Final Four, the National Education Association, the Rotary International, and the Meeting Planners International. Combined those four events could bring nearly 100,000 visitors to Minneapolis-Saint Paul Each year, Meet Minneapolis hosts dozens of events at the Minneapolis Convention Center and area hotels. These events are a major economic benefit to Minneapolis and the entire region. In 2009, a total of 89 conventions and meetings will bring $255.9 million in direct economic impact - spending by attendees. Next year's highlights include the NCAA First and Second Round Men's Basketball, the International Reading Association, the Lion's Club International, and the National Society of Hispanic MBAs.

he Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa recently promoted Charlene Lopez to associate director of sales and Sean Massay to sales manager.

Formerly a sales manager of the resort, Lopez will now oversee the sales efforts of the meeting connections team as well as assist the director of sales in the sales effort of the 500-room AAA Four-Diamond resort property. In addition, she will be responsible for soliciting business from throughout the West Coast, Florida and Georgia and all international markets.

Lopez is a six-year veteran of the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa. She began her career with Hyatt as reservations supervisor before transitioning into the sales department as business travel manager. She was then promoted to meeting connections manager and most recently to sales manager.

Lopez earned a bachelor of arts (BA) in English from Texas A & M University and a master of science in human resource management from Tarleton State University in Killeen, Texas.

east section of the United States. This includes large corporate based businesses in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

Massay began his career with Hyatt over three years ago as a meeting connections manager where he was charged with booking a higher volume of smaller programs. Prior to entering the hotel and hospitality industry, he was a market research sales manager for Frost & Sullivan.

A native Texan, Massey holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in business administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

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About Hyatt Hill Country

In his new position Massay will oversee the sales operation of the resort for the North-

The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa is located on 300-scenic acres in the heart of San Antonio and features 500 guestrooms, 58 suites and 33,000 square feet of meeting space. With four restaurants, a lounge and coffee bar, guests can enjoy superb epicurean dining or cocktails with colleagues overlooking a lushly landscaped 27-hole Arthur Hillsdesigned golf course. For reservations or information contact The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa at 210.647.1234 or visit us at www.hillcountry.hyatt.com.

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industrybriefs

HYATT REGENCY HILL COUNTRY RESORT AND SPA PROMOTES SALES ASSOCIATES

industrybriefs

Benchmark Hospitality International Appoints Alex Cabañas Vice President of Development and Strategy enchmark Hospitality International has named Alex Cabañas vice president of development and strategy for the global hospitality management company. The appointment was announced by Burt Cabañas, Benchmark's chairman and chief executive officer. Alex Cabañas was previously vice president of capital markets for Benchmark Hospitality.

"As I viewed Benchmark's projected growth over the next ten years, it became clear that new business development, strategic planning and coordination of capital resources needed to be managed under one umbrella,"

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said Burt Cabañas. " Alex's track record with the capital side of our business over the past two years, coupled with his experience in corporate strategy with Boston Consulting Group, establishes him as the ideal person to lead Benchmark's growth initiatives."

In his new position with Benchmark Hospitality International, Alex Cabañas assumes broad responsibilities for the company's growth, including the expansion of its portfolio of award-winning resorts, personal luxury hotels and conference centers, both domestically and internationally. With strategic planning and organizational development efforts critical to successful growth, Mr. Cabañas will coordinate with Benchmark's executive team to move the organization forward. As well, he will continue to oversee the development of Benchmark's investment capital

opportunities and relationships important to the company's expansion plans.

Alex Cabañas has been employed by Benchmark Hospitality since early 2006, most recently serving as vice president of capital markets. In this role, he actively expanded Benchmark's access to capital resources globally, developed a capital strategy for potential co-investment opportunities and supported strategic planning initiatives.

Additionally, Mr. Cabañas oversaw the launch of Benchmark Japan, the company's Asian subsidiary, which included the initiation of multiple development projects within Tokyo and the country of Japan. Prior to this appointment, Cabañas served as director of capital markets and strategic planning for Benchmark Hospitality.

etai San Diego, the new 184-room premier luxury hotel located in downtown San Diego's financial district, will open its doors - specifically two custom-made 9,000-pound bronze pivot doors - in early December. Part of the Preferred Hotel Group, Setai San Diego intends to bring the beauty, sophistication and experience of the world's most luxurious contemporary hotels to downtown San Diego.

Designed by the Rockwell Group to be artful in every way, Setai San Diego is a unique

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extra-sensory experience in art and function, with hundreds of touch points within the new 23-story steel and glass structure. The property will feature luxury amenities such as a world-class spa, gourmet restaurant, exclusive Grand Penthouse, rooftop pool and deck, recording studio, private screening room, and 20,000 square feet of event and meeting space.

"Setai San Diego is the perfect destination for an urban retreat, and we are delighted to be able to offer discerning travelers and luxury-seekers the highest standards in service, design, and amenities," said General Manager Craig Waterman.

In a powerful unity of art and function, Setai San Diego's lobby displays objects and textures that will excite the senses. After entering through one of the massive bronze and exotic wood pivot doors, guests are greeted by black ebony columns adorned with

turquoise patina beads, teardrop crystals, Nepali carpets, silver leaf covered walls and shagreen upholstery. Four-dimensional art decorates the lobby in addition to a multi-tier silk chandelier that shimmers in columns of light. When guests ascend a floating staircase to the restaurant they will see artist Ken Gangbar's ceramic "Finn Wave" wall installation. The artwork encompasses hundreds of ceramic "fins" and takes up the entire wall in a fluid, uplifting wave-like motion.

The hotel's 184 rooms, including 37 suites and three penthouse suites, incorporate sophisticated luxury, using elements such as fine custom made linens, leather furniture, rich drapery, Jerusalem bone limestone finishes in the bathrooms, Brazilian walnut flooring, and Sapelli woods. Seventeen (17) one-bedroom suites feature generously sized balconies, outfitted with chaise lounges and providing expansive city views. Twenty (20) larger Luxe Suites come equipped with full Italian kitchens, Miele and Sub Zero appliances, full living rooms, balconies, private bedrooms and baths. South-facing suites feature expansive balconies with floor-to-ceiling NanaWall windows, opening to give guests literally an open wall of stunning city, ocean and bay views.

For further information or to make a reservation, please visit www.setaisandiego.com or call 619.515.3000.

industrybriefs

Setai San Diego, a Premier Luxury Hotel, Opens December 2008

COVER STORY | CPL EVENTS

Linda Pereira One of the Top 100 Meeting Industry Professionals in the World! inda Pereira is the senior partner and CEO of the L&I Communications Group. She is also Executive Director of CPL Events. As a PCO (Professional Congress Organiser) she is one of the first graduates in this speciality and probably the only one in Portugal. Linda is also a qualified educator, and internation-

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al speaker. She is recognised by her peers as one of the top 100 Meeting Industry Professionals in the World. Her PR, marketing and event experience was gained during her time as a professional Interpreter and advisor whilst travelling all over the world accompanying Members of Government and has been present in the most important events which have marked recent history.

CPL EVENTS Staff - All are CDM Pereira will te ach the Certif P's - Linda ie Meeting Profe ssional (CDM d Diversity P) CDMP at t IAHMP Confe he rence in San D iego Her expertise in protocol and business etiquette as well as cross-cultural communication have given her a privileged status as a consultant in government circles and at the highest corporate levels. Her work in the Meeting Industry led her to take a Master's Degree in Adult Education.

She is proud to have been involved in countless large-scale meetings at an international level and to have played an important role in the two European Presidencies held by Portugal as well as EXPO'98, the last World Exposition of the XXth century. Respected internationally as a speaker she is continually being invited to speak to professionals in the Business Travel Sector and has lectured in countries such as Italy, Spain, Russia, Egypt, Cape Verde, United Kingdom, Dubai, Spain and The Netherlands to name just a few. She also lectures and coordinates the Masters in Strategic Event Planning at the Estoril Hospitality University and is an "invited lecturer" at Essex and Westminster Universities where, once a year she lectures a Master Class in "Strategic Meeting Planning & Management". She recently adapted this course to the European Market and organises an educational one-week seminar for the Por-

tuguese Market once a year, although even this course has become very international over the last three years attracting students from a myriad of countries.

Linda Pereira is the major shareholder and founder of three successful companies dedicated to international congress management and provision of services to meeting planners with representation in Lisbon, Manchester, Barcelona and Madrid and more recently Cape Verde.

She is continuously called in as a consultant to International Hotel Groups on staff training and has earned the nickname of the Destination Diva among her peers for her expert knowledge on Meetings & incentive Destinations and her focused attention to detail when it comes to quality service.

She is a member of some of the most prestigious international associations. Over the last few years she has dedicated herself to promoting emerging destinations. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 15

Verde e p a C in m a e T

CDMPs 2008 with the President of the World y it Association of Hospital & Tourism Professors

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DMP in C e h t it s l il w - all

2009

Students sitting the CDMP in 2008

el Fonseca

The

DMP - Migu f irst Iberian C

She is a member of SITE - Society of Incentive Travel Executives and MPI - Meeting Planners International. In 2007 becoming a member of the Education Committee responsible for the ICCA Marketing & Sales Programme. She is a member of the Board of Directors of WECAI - Women's e-Commerce Association International and a permanent travel writer for the WE Magazine; Vice-President of ADVP - Portugal's Sales & Marketing Association; President of the Iberian Chapter of IAHMP -

nference

At the 2007 IAHMP co

International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals and sits on their Education Committee; Member of a Panel of International Experts for the Development of Business Travel in Russia. She is also an active board member of her three national professional associations.

Linda Pereira was consultant to the Azores Convention Bureau for 3 years. Consultant to Sochi Convention Bureau for 2 years and is currently the consultant to the Estoril Congress Centre, and UNOTUR in Cape Verde.

She has been married to a military officer for 25 years and has two teenage daughters.

A military exe rcis & journalists e I take part in once a year who go on NA w TO peacekeep ith the students ing missions

WELCOME, BIENVENIDOS, BENVINDO! International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals 13th Annual Conference First Time Meeting in State of California The International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals - IAHMP is pleased to host the 13th Annual International Conference on December 3-7, 2008 at the Town & Country Resort and Convention Center. Our members from throughout the USA, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Lisbon, Portugal will attend.

Our theme "Bridging Borders in the Americas and Europe - The Power of World Tourism, Meetings, Conventions and Specials Events" recognizes the expansion of our USA based association to work with industry professionals across the borders of the Americas and Europe. The establishment of our international chapters in Portugal, Mexico, Costa Rica and Guatemala is only the beginning in our efforts to bridge borders and gain the knowledge of working with our colleagues around the world.

This year, we introduce A One Stop Market Place for Suppliers and Meeting Planners. The Trade Show allows time for one-on-one meetings between suppliers and planners something not always possible at other industry meetings. We have invited San Diego suppliers and meeting planners to participate making them aware of IAHMP and presenting an opportunity for joint ventures.

The annual Conference also introduces the Certified Diversity Meeting Professional (CDMP) program.

As the only industry certification which focuses diversity and sustainability issues as key skills and attributes in meeting planning, the CDMP distinguishes holders as career professionals who have demonstrated a high level of experience, skill and knowledge in this field.

The CDMP has already been incorporated into a Master's level class at the University in Lisbon, Portugal.

This is the first time that industry professionals in the USA will be given an opportunity to gain the CDMP certification. The class will be taught by industry professional Linda Pereira, Executive Director, CPL EVENTS in Lisbon, Portugal who is also the Founder/President, of the IAHMP Iberian Chapter.

IAHMP thanks our wonderful speakers who are volunteering their expert knowledge and talent to support our

program this year. Among them is Daniel Gutierrez a Best-Selling Author, and International Professional Speaker, Trainer and Radio Personality. Heidi Richards, Founder/CEO of The WECAI Network and Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, WE Magazine for Women. Sarita Maybin, Professional Speaker and Author of the book, If You Can't Say Something Nice, What DO You Say? Patsy Cisneros, AICI, is cofounder with her partner Susan K. Abrams, AICI of Corporate Icon the Image Development Company and Co- Authors of "The Professional Image Toolkit - How to Look Like You Mean Business" and Mike Aguilera, CSL, CAC, MNLP is a professional Speaker and Coach Consultant, Author of " The Art of Networking Book."

We also wish to express our sincere thanks to the Town & Country Resort for hosting the meeting planners this year and the staff at the GVR Public Relations Agency and the Multi-Cultural Convention Services Network for providing their services to support our conference.

Muchisimas Gracias! Thank You! Muito obrigado: Thanks a lot.

To all in attendance we thank you for your support and your participation. We truly hope you will enjoy the conference, tell your friends about us and will join us again next year as we continue to bridge borders and bring people together to learn and to enjoy the wisdom we all share.

About IAHMP The International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals is the leading international association that defines and shapes the Hispanic meetings and events profession. IAHMP is an association that promotes the uniqueness of Hispanic cultures, professionalism and continuing education. IAHMP was established to demonstrate the economic impact of the growing Hispanic meetings market, as well as to introduce meeting planning, hospitality and travel industry careers to Hispanics in the United States, Mexico, South America and Europe. See www.IAHMP.org

Letter from the Mayor

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Letter from the San Diego CVB

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Letter from the President of IAHMP

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Letter from Mexico and Portugal chapters

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Conference Agenda Tuesday, December 2, 2008 Pre Conference Event Attend Opening Night of THE COLOR PURPLE San Diego Civic Center Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2008, 7:00PM Oprah Winfrey, Scott Sanders and the producing team of the Broadway smash hit THE COLOR PURPLE, The Musical about Love, are proud to announce the show will visit the San Diego Civic Center December 2-7,2008.

Wednesday December 3, 2008 08:30 AM - 05:30 PM

Certified Diversity Meeting Professional Training Session Introducing the Certified Diversity Meeting Professional.

As the only industry certification which focuses diversity and sustainability issues as key skills and attributes in meeting planning, the CDMP distinguishes holders as career professionals who have demonstrated a high level of experience, skill and knowledge in this field.

Linda Pereira, Executive Director, CPL EVENTS and president of the IAHMP Iberian Chapter in Lisbon, Portugal will teach the class. Ms. Pereira has incorporated the CDMP into a Mater's level course she teaches at the University in Lisbon.

07:00PM - 10:00 PM

Opening Welcome Reception - Town & Country Resort Entertainment "Mariachi Real de San Diego"

Thursday, December 4, 2008 07:30 AM - 08:00 AM

Registration

08:00 AM - 09:00 AM

Continental Breakfast

09:30 AM - 09:15 AM

Official Opening - WELCOME to San Diego

TOWN AND COUNTRY RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER 500 HOTEL CIRCLE NORTH, SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA 92108

General Session The Importance of the Hispanic Meetings Market MC - Ramon A. Calรก, Manager The CALPRO Group, Management & Marketing. New York, NY MC - Linda Caballero-Sotelo, President and COO of Toltec Media, San Diego Margaret Gonzalez IAHMP International President and Founder-Publisher, Hispanic Meetings & Travel Catherine Gonzales IAHMP Vice President - VP Tourism, Albuquerque, New Mexico, Hispano Chamber of Commerce Lizbeth Zamudio IAHMP Mexico Chapter President - President, Strategy & Events, Mexico City Linda Pereira IAHMP Iberian Chapter- Executive Director, CPL EVENTS Portugal Paul L. Somogyi IAHMP Advisor - Director Sales, Government & Affinity - Marriott International David Peckinpaugh President/CEO San Diego CVB Guest Speaker Eduardo Chaillo Director of the Mexico Tourism Board's Strategic Business Unit for the U.S. in Washington, D.C. Keynote Speaker - Daniel Gutierrez A Best-Selling Author, International Professional Speaker, Trainer and Radio Personality. His book, "Stepping Into Greatness: Success Is Up To You," designed to help each of us realize our fullest potential. His infectious humor, and his deep belief that there is greatness in each of us, has inspired Fortune 500 companies and individuals alike to make positive changes that lead to success. Daniel's presentation will be on "The 7 Golden rules for Success."

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10:15 AM - 11:15 AM

General Session Heidi Richards Mooney Founder & CEO - The WECAI Network, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, WE Magazine for Women!

Social Networking and How to Leverage Virtual Meeting Spaces to Promote Business.

11:15 AM - 11:30 AM

Coffee Break

11:30 AM - 12:15 AM

General Session Sarita Maybin, Executive Professional Speaker and Author of the book-Celebrating 15 years of "Helping People Work Together...Better!"

"How to Stay Positive and Focused in Uncertain Times"

12:15 PM - 01:30 PM

Luncheon - Sponsored by Marriott Guest Speaker Paul L. Somogyi IAHMP Advisor - Director Sales, Government & Affinity - Marriott International Guest Speaker Lic. Juan Carlos Vargas Murueta Executive Developer and Director for the Secretary of Tourism in Mexico City

01:30 PM

General Session Meeting Planners Panel Success Histories IAHMP Members, USA and Mexico Fred Sotelo Chairman and CEO of Toltec Media - Facilitator Jorge Flores Escobar Jorge Flores Escobar is founder and president of ACOB Mary Jew President and Board Member, National Association of Bilingual Education Toni Martin Board Member, Blacks in Government Lizbeth Zamudio IAHMP Mexico Chapter President - President Strategy & Events, Mexico City

02:45 PM - 03:00 PM

Coffee Break

03:00 PM - 04:00 PM

General Session Mike Aguilera, CSL, CAC, MNLP is a professional Speaker and Coach Consultant, Author of "The Art of Networking Book." He is a Communications Expert specializing in Subconscious Communication Technique, also referred to as microinequities.

04:00 PM - 05:00 PM

General Session Lawrence John The Navajo Nation Meetings & Events Market: Learn how much money is spent on hotel and conference rooms each year and how you can outreach this important market.

06:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Dinner on your own Ride the Metro Train to Old Town San Diego for Shopping and Mexican Restaurants A Night in Old Town San Diego - Learn more about the history of San Diego when we explore the area where Portuguese-born explorer Juan Rodrigues Cabrillo sailing under the Spanish Flag, (1499 - 1543) claimed the bay for the Spanish Empire. In 1602, Sebastian Vizcaino was sent to map the California coast. Arriving on his flagship San Diego, VizcaĂ­no surveyed the harbor and what are now Mission Bay and Point Loma and named the area for the Catholic Saint Didacus, a Spaniard more commonly known as San Diego.

Friday, December 5, 2008 07:30 AM - 08:00 AM

Continental Breakfast

08:00 AM - 09:30 AM

CVB Panel Presentation Yvonne Guzman, Denver Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau - Facilitator David Hidalgo Ayala, Monterrey, Mexico Convention and Visitors Bureau Adele Preza, San Mateo County CVB Ramon Serrano, Executive Director, Mexico City Convention & Visitors Bureau Robyn Nichols, Reno Sparks Convention & Visitors Bureau

09:35 AM - 10:25 AM

Bob Salkin is the founder of Good Source Solutions and a professional speaker. His message on how to "Become a Catastrophic Converter" Lessons on finding opportunity and growth in adversity.

The purpose of this presentation is to provide the audience with a more winning approach to the adversity found in business. Acknowledging that adversity hurts, this approach stresses that even if you can't fix the problem; you can control how you respond.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Linda Pereira Executive Director, CPL EVENTS, Lisbon, Portugal, Founder/President, IAHMP Iberian Chapter Diversity & Sustainability - The Two Major Winds of Change in the Meeting Industry The Value of the European Meeting Industry - what you need to know to attract their business.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

General Session Patsy Cisneros, AICI CIP, Corporate Icon Inc. Global Body Language- Skills for Power & Confidence Whether you are an international traveler or you have international clients; the right body language can ensure business power and confidence. One wrong move can stall or stop promising international relations. This seminar will give you dos and don'ts to keep your business moving along.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

General Session Elda Laura Cerda, GD Consultant & Luis Felipe Nu単o, Guadalajara Ministry of Tourism Destination Management the Key for Success

01:30 PM - 4:30PM

Industry Luncheon and Tradeshow

07:30PM - 12:00 PM

Gala Diversity Awards Dinner Award Presentations and CDMP Recognition Music, Latin Variety Dance Music

Saturday, December 6, 2008 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Breakfast Brunch Focus on our Suppliers - Recognition and presentations, Door Prizes for Meeting Planners Announcement IAHMP Next Steps/Site Announcement 2009 & 2010 Mexico Chapter 2nd Annual Conference in Zacatecas, Mexico, Spring 2009 presented by Rodolfo Salmon de la Torre, Tourism in Zacatecas 12:00 PM

Post Conference Tour (Optional) Tour to Rosarito, Mexico Passports are required to visit this quaint Mexican Village on the Pacific Coast located about one hours drive from San Diego. Enjoy lots of shopping just in time for the holidays and time to savor the largest lobsters in the world alongside the beautiful Pacific Coast.

Very Important: Passports will be needed to cross the US and Mexico border. Sign up is required with a nominal fee for transportation and our evening meal. Fee is $75

08:00 PM

Return to Hotel

Sunday, December 7, 2008 Depart for Home 26 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

Conference Speakers Linda Pereira Senior Partner & Executive Director, CPL Events Linda Pereira is the senior partner and Executive Director of CPL Events. As a PCO (professional congress organizer) she is one of the first graduates in this specialty and probably the only one in Portugal. Linda is also a qualified educator and international speaker. Her work in the Meeting Industry led her to take a Master's Degree in Adult Education.

Daniel Gutierrez Founder, Latino Empowerment Foundation Daniel Gutierrez is a corporate wake-up call, people manager and personal motivator. His wise counsel is “Accept your greatness. True passion burns within us all and it is best to live our lives, every day, from greatness". Mr. Gutierrez is a consultant to Fortune 500 companies.

He improves productivity and bottom lines through effective and inspirational management coaching, and by enabling the progress of diversity.

Eduardo Chaillo, CMP, CMM Director, Strategic Business Unit for the U.S. Mexico Tourism Board Eduardo Chaillo is director of the Mexico Tourism Board's (MTB's) Strategic Business Unit for the U.S. in Washington, D.C., which develops alliances in all tourism segments with a particular emphasis on meetings and conventions. He serves as regional director for North America, supervising the activities of the MTB's marketing offices in Chicago, New York, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami and New York.

Heidi Richards Founder & CEO - The WECAI Network, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, WE Magazine Her presentation on Social Networking and How to Leverage Virtual Meeting Spaces to Promote Business targets both Suppliers and Meeting Planners to set and accomplish goals in the workplace.

Sarita Maybin Sarita Maybin is a high energy speaker whose audiences have fun learning how to stay positive, constructively confront tough communication situations and work together better. Her client list includes NASA, Nokia, Hewlett Packard, Kaiser Permanente, WD-40, Los Angeles County and the Las Vegas Convention Center among others.

Since 1993, Sarita has spoken in almost all 50 states, Canada, England, Asia, Mexico and Iceland. She has been interviewed by San Diego area Fox News, ABC News, the Tavis Smiley Radio Show and multiple print publications about her book and presentation entitled "If You Can't Say Something Nice, What DO You Say?"

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Conference Speakers Lic. Juan Carlos Vargas Murueta Juan Carlos is the Executive Developer and Director for the Secretary of Tourism in Mexico City.

Jorge Flores Escobar Jorge Flores Escobar is founder and president of ACOB, the leading information technology company for trade shows in Mexico since 1992.

Mike Aguilera CEO and founder of Aguilera & Associates He has created and conducts a series of unique empowering workshops and presentations all based around subconscious communication techniques and strategies for relationships, both business and personal, stress reduction, creative solution thinking, sales, negotiations, and leadership.

Yvonne Guzman Sales Manager , VISIT DENVER

Mary Jew President and Board Member National Association of Bilingual Education, Cupertino, California

Yvonne handles Multicultural Markets in all areas as well as with Association clients in the Northeast. She also serves on the Multicultural Task Force for VISIT DENVER.

David Hidalgo Ayala Monterrey, Mexico CVB

Toni Martin Blacks in Government Board Member – Sacramento, California

Lawrence John Lawrence will speak on “ The Navajo Nation Meetings & Events Market” Learn about this dynamic market and the many meetings and events held throughout the country by members of the Navajo Nation.

David studied Communication Sciences at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM). He also has a specialty in Public Opinion from the UNAM. David has 13 years of professional experience in the "industry of meetings" and has worked as PCO on Congresses, Conventions, Trade Shows, Meetings, Sports Clubs Events, etc. In 2005, the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Monterrey, Mexico, invited him to join them as a Sales Manager in the Mexico City Office. As the Sales Manager in the México Office he has been representing the CVB in some of their activities in México and other places, including the sub committees of development and promotional activities with the Mexico Tourism Board.

Ramon Serrano Ramon Serrano Executive Director, Mexico City Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Mr. Serrano has more than 17 years in the tourism sector and has held leadership positions at both national and international levels of the industry.

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Robyn Nichols, National

Elda Laura Cerda

National Sales Manager, Reno-Sparks CVA

CEO, Destination Management Consulting

Ms. Nichols has been in the hospitality industry for more than 30 years.

Her career has spanned from hotel management to her current position with the Reno-Sparks Convention & Visitors Authority. Her specialized market at the authority covers the SMERF market comprised of Social, Military, Ethnic (Diversity), Religious and Fraternal, as well as including Sports and Hobby. She is a member of IAHMP, NASC, RCMA, and IAEM.

She has more than 18 years in tourism sector she was responsible of the Mexico Convention Bureau at the Mexico Tourism Board, as well as Executive Director of Monterrey Convention and Visitors Bureau. She holds a bachelor´s degree in tourism and hospitality from Mexico´s Universidad Regiomontana, and a master´s degree from Spain´s Universidad Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

Adele Preza

Luis Felipe Nuño Ramìrez

Sales Manager San Mateo County/Silicon Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau

Marketing Director, Guadalajara Visitors and Convention Bureau

Adele is Sales Manager for the San Mateo County/Silicon Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau. Prior to that she was Senior Director of Sales for the Hawaii Visitors Bureau, Big Island.

Her past professional experiences include: Vice President of Marketing for AQUA Hotels & Resorts, National Director of Sales and Marketing for Sunterra Resorts and Marc Resorts and Director of Sales-Incentives and International for Marriott Western Regional Corporate Sales Office. She co-founded the HSMAI Maui chapter as its vice president as well as cofounded the Hawaii Visitors Bureau Southern California affiliate organization, Hawaii Ohana.

Patsy Cisneros

Mr. Ramirez has been an executive in the travel and tourism industry for more than twenty years and is a recognized expert in Meetings and Incentives.

Bob Salkin Bob Salkin is a professional speaker and the founder of Good Source Solutions. His message on how to "Become a Catastrophic Converter" Lessons on finding opportunity and growth in adversity. The purpose of this presentation is to provide the audience with a more winning approach to the adversity found in business. Acknowledging that adversity hurts, this approach stresses that even if you can't fix the problem; you can control how you respond.

Patsy Cisneros , AICI, is a Corporate and Political Image Consultant & Executive Development Specialist.

Cisneros and her partner Susan K. Abrams, AICI founded Corporate Icon- the Image Development Company. Co- Authors of "The Professional Image Toolkit - How to Look Like You Mean Business" Patsy Cisneros will speak on “ Body Language & Multi-Cultural Etiquette”

www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 29

CDMP Program The Certified Diversity Meeting Professional Who should become a CDMP professional?

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE

Corporate Industry professionals, Hotel suppliers, Convention & Visitor Bureau staff, meeting planners, convention center managers, association leaders and anyone who works within the travel, meetings and hospitality industry. Anyone who understands and works within a Global economy will recognize the value of the Certified Diversity Meeting Professional program.

The designation conveys credibility to a meeting professionals opinions and ideas, both at work and in the greater meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry of issues which are no longer just trends but crucial planning elements and competitive components

PEER ACCEPTANCE & COMMITMENT

Why Become a CDMP? • Recognition As Diversity & Sustainability Aware Meeting Professional

CDMPs are immediately recognized by others as fellow professionals committed to the advancement of respect for diversity and sustainablity.

• Gain a Competitive Advantage

PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT

• Peer Acceptance

Be among the first to earn the CDMP and empower yourself to work within the new workforce of inclusion.

• Commitment BE AHEAD OF THE PACK

• Personal Achievement • Be ahead of the Pack

The workforce of the future will be made up of women and minority people. Be ready to work within this new environment.

CERTIFIED DIVERSITY MEETING PROFESSIONAL (CDMP) EXAMINATION BLUEPRINT

RECOGNITION As the only industry certification which focuses diversity and sustainability issues as key skills and attributes in meeting planning, the CDMP distinguishes holders as career professionals who have demonstrated a high level of experience, skill and knowledge in this field.

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The Certified Diversity Meeting Professional (CDMP) program aims to increase the professionalism of meeting management professionalsin the fields of diversity and sustainability issues. To earn the CDMP credential an individual must meet specific application requirements and pass a rigorous examination.

The examination is composed of 20 questions which are selected by the Education Committee annually from the obligatory Course Content as established by the Scientific Committee.

Each examination offered is made up of a different selection from the bank of questions. All CDMP examination questions are written by and reviewed on a regular basis by current CDMP Members of the Scientific and Education Committees at the annual CDMP Conclave, which takes place during the annual conference.

Periodically, a study is conducted to make sure that the CDMP examination is current. Meeting professionals are surveyed to help evaluate the level of knowledge regarding diversity, crosscultural issues and sustainability and skills that are expected within the profession. The CDMP examination contains questions covering the variety of functions a meeting planner must perform when planning for today's two most crucial aspects, respect for diversity and cultural awareness and sustainability based on the CDMP Blueprint.

Conference Participants ACOB

Marriott International, Inc.

Aguilera & Associates

Marriott Irvine

AICI

Marriott Los Angeles Airport

Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce

Marriott - Mexico City

American Airlines

Marriott Sacramento Rancho Cordova

Association of African American Meeting Professionals

Marriott San Diego La Jolla

Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino Blacks in Government Burbank Marriott Hotel & Convention Center Camelback Inn Resort & Spa

Marriott San Francisco Airport McCormick Place Mexico City CVB Mexico Tourism Board

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention MFS Event Technology CODEVEN CIMPA CPL Events Desert SpringsJW Marriott Resort & Spa Destination Management Consulting

MM-PRTV Monclova CVB Monterrey CVB Multi-Cultural Convention Services Network

Dallas CVB

National Association for Bilingual Education

Denver Metro CVB

Navajo Nation - Ethics and Rules Office

Dionicio Morales Foundation

Nevada Commission on Minority Affairs

eConference Registration.com

Norwalk Marriott

Guadalajara CVB

Ogden CVB

Good Source Solutions

ONCE

George R. Brown Convention Center

Poliforum Leon - Congresos Y Exposiciones

Giuriato & Associates

Pueblo of Pojoaque

Grand Sierra Resort & Casino

Puerto Rico Convention Bureau

Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Renaissance Concourse Hotel

Greater Birmingham CVB

Reno-Sparks CVA

Greater Houston CVB GVR Public Relations & Meeting Planning Agency Heritage Hotels & Resorts Hispanic Hotel Owners Association

Richard Edwards Investments Richmond Metropolitan CVB Saltillo CVB San Diego CVB

Hispanic Meetings & Travel Magazine San Diego Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Holiday Inn Fisherman's Wharf Hyatt Hotels Corporation IAHMP Hispanidad Global, A.C. IAHMP Mexico IAHMP Portugal

San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina San Mateo CVB Southwest Airlines Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

Integrity People

Strategy & Events

JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa - Phoenix

Toltec Media

JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa at Summerlin

The WECAI Network

Kissimmee CVB

The CALPRO Group, Inc.

Latino Empowerment Foundation

Town and Country Resort & Convention Center

L & I Communications

Zacatecas CVB

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Conference Sponsors Conferenceand Meeting PlannerSponsors San Diego CVB Town and Country Resort & Convention Center

SilverSponsor Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

BronzeSponsors Denver Metro CVB Greater Houston CVB Marriot International, Inc.

EventSponsors ACOB Desert Springs, JW Marriott Resort & Spa Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce Camelback Inn Resort & Spa Hyatt Hotels Corporation JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa - Phoenix JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa at Summerlin Marriot Irvine Marriot Los Angeles Airport Marriott Norwalk Marriott Sacramento Rancho Cordova Marriott San Diego La Jolla Marriott San Diego Hotel & Marina Marriott San Francisco Airport Mexico Tourism Board Saltillo OCV

EntertainmentSponsors The CALPRO Group, Inc.

Transportation Sponsors American Airlines Southwest Airlines

In Kind Sponsors CPL Events eConference Registration.com GVR Public Relations & Meeting Planning Hispanic Meetings & Travel Magazine IAHMP Mexico IAHMP Portugal MFS Event Technology Multi-Cultural Convention Services Network San Diego Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Strategy & Events 32 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

Conference Tradeshow Exhibitors Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino Burbank Marriott Hotel & Convention Center Camelback Inn Resort & Spa Dallas CVB Denver Metro CVB Desert Springs, JW Marriott Resort & Spa Grand Sierra Resort & Casino Greater Birmingham CVB Greater Houston CVB Heritage Hotels & Resorts Hispanic Meetings & Travel Magazine Holiday Inn Fisherman's Wharf JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa - Phoenix JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa at Summerlin JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa at Summerlin Kissimmee CVB Marriott International, Inc. Mexico City CVB Mexico Tourism Board Monclova CVB Monterrey CVB Multi-Cultural Convention Services Network Norwalk Marriott Ogden CVB Puerto Rico Convention Bureau Renaissance Concourse Hotel Reno-Sparks CVA Richmond Metropolitan CVB Saltillo CVB San Diego CVB San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina San Mateo CVB Strategy & Events The CALPRO Group, Inc. Town and Country Resort & Convention Center Zacatecas CVB

www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 33

Pre/Post Conference Tours Calafia Resort restaurant for a great Margarita. Sit on their patio over looking the Pacific Ocean. Calafia's linen tabled restaurant spills out and over the cliff. Here you may sit at any table placed at various levels of the cliff all the way down to the ocean. At ocean level, there is an old pirate's wrecked ship. The old sailing vessel has been salvaged and the deck serves as a dance floor for Club 1773, the resort's nightclub.

Pre Conference Event: The Color Purple Oprah Winfrey, Scott Sanders and the producing team of the Broadway smash hit THE COLOR PURPLE, The Musical about Love, are proud to announce the show will visit the San Diego Civic Center December 2-7, 2008.

Join fellow conference attendees for the opening night of The Color Purple at the San Diego Civic Center, Tuesday, December 2, 2008 at 7:00PM. Contact IAHMP at 281-333-1552 to RSVP your tickets.

When finished with the Margarita and after enjoying the spectacular view, youre driver can continue on south to Puerto Nuevo.

This is the place to have the tenderest lobster ever! Langosta Puerto Nuevo!! Truly tender lobster served with a green salad, rice, frijoles and tortillas, all for about $15.00. A Margarita or beer goes really well with this meal!

In the early days of Puerto Nuevo's history, people would drive down from San Diego or Tijuana and stop at the locals’ homes for a feast of Langosta Puerto Nuevo. The charge was so modest that it became the thing to do. After years of this place being a wellkept secret, its popularity grew and grew. Now it's rather crowded and has many restaurants in this tiny village, but it's still the place to enjoy a delicious meal.

Post Conference Tour: Rosarito, Mexico Rosarito is located in northwest Baja California, Mexico. Its history reaches back to native tribes and Spanish missions. The city has grown in many ways, but the village atmosphere still prevails.

From San Diego, cross the border into Mexico and take the toll road Ensenada Cuota from Playas de Tijuana to Rosarito Beach. The sights on the way and the view of the Pacific Ocean from the cliffs are awesome. When you arrive at Rosarito you'll want to check out the beach, go to the mission, walk around, and do a little shopping. Along the way you can also stop at Fox Studios the spot where the movie Titanic was filmed, and it's a lot of fun to tour -- especially the Titanic movie set.

Just before hunger sets in, return to the main road and drive south for a stop at the

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After enjoying the village and having a wonderful meal head north and stop in at the Rosarito Beach Hotel. It's a famous hotel and was home to Hollywood's top stars in its hay day. Guests included Orson Wells, Edward G. Robinson, Robert Stack, Gregory Peck, Vincent Price, Spencer Tracy, and Anthony Quinn. One guest, Ali Khan, son of the Shah of Iran, visited the hotel in 1954 accompanied by sultry movie star Rita Hayworth. Marilyn Monroe, Lana Turner, Joan Bennett and Kim Novak visited the Rosarito Beach Hotel. A sign above the lobby entrance states: "Through this door pass the most beautiful women in the world."

Return to San Diego and enjoy your evening at the hotel.

Cuisine

::

LANIER ISLAND RESORT

Executive Chef Anthony J. Burke joins Lake Lanier Islands Resort ake Lanier Islands Resort today announced the arrival of Anthony J. Burke as executive chef. Burke brings more than 25 years of experience with major resort and hotel brands to his position.

"Anthony brings a wealth of experience to our food and beverage team," said Pascal Pedaggi, director of food and beverage for Lake Lanier Islands Resort. "He has worked with other large private resorts but also has the depth of knowledge that comes from working with a big name brand. His industry knowledge and skill is a huge asset to Lake Lanier Islands Resort as we strive to provide the best culinary experience for our guests."

Burke will manage and develop menus for all of Lake Lanier Islands Resort's dining options, including the Tiki Hut, which offers dining for boaters on Lake Lanier; BullFrogs Bar & Grill, located at the Legacy Lodge &

L

36 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

Conference Center; and Windows Restaurant, which hosts special dining events throughout the year.

Prior to joining Lake Lanier Islands Resort, Burke was the executive chef at Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa and Convention Center in Branson, Mo., part of John Q. Hammons Hotels, where he oversaw a 144-seat fine dining restaurant, a 52-seat atrium restaurant and a 36-seat private restaurant for the AAA Four Diamond resort.

From 2000 to 2004, Burke served as executive chef for Wyndham Hotels. Burke also served as executive chef of the Split Rock Resort, located in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, from 1998-2000, executive chef of the Seasons Resort & Conference Center in Great Gorge, N.J., from 1994-1998 and executive chef of the Mount Laurel Resort & Conference Center in Mount Laurel, N.J., from 1993-1994.

Burke earned his Professional Chef Development and Management Certification at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y. ABOUT LAKE LANIER ISLANDS RESORT Set on the pristine, southern-most shores of Lake Sidney Lanier is Lake Lanier Islands Resort. The year-round, 1,100acre resort is located less than 45 minutes from downtown Atlanta and boasts a variety of amenities and attractions including the Legacy Lodge & Conference Center, championship golf courses, scenic horseback riding, spa services, casual and upscale dining options, horseback riding, boat rentals, the summertime Beach & WaterPark and the Magical Nights of Lights holiday extravaganza.

Associations|Update

Burt Caba単as, founder, chairman and chief executive officer of Benchmark Hospitality International.

::

H I S PA N I C H O T E L O W N E R S A S S O C I AT I O N

"This is a tremendous honor for our company," said Burt Caba単as, founder, chairman and chief executive officer of Benchmark Hospitality International. "To be recognized by our peers within the industry is something we hold very special. To receive this award from our Hispanic lodging colleagues is a tremendous honor for me and for the entire team at Benchmark Hospitality.

We are grateful for this recognition."

Hispanic Hotel Owners Association Hotel, Development and Investment Conference Lively with Hotel Deals and Latino Pride ore than 250 attendees from more than five Latin American countries and 25 U.S. states gathered in Miami to do transactions and celebrate the impressive growth of Latino hotel ownership at the group's first annual Hotel, Development and Investment Conference, held last week at the Doral Resort and Spa in Miami, Fla. Despite a troubled stock market, deal-making was widespread, according to attendees. "The caliber of attendees and content exceeded our highest expectations," said Angela GonzalezRowe, founder and president of the Hispanic

M

38 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

Hotel Owners Association. "While it is too early to determine how many deals will be inked as a result of the inaugural event, we know that at least 15 to 20 transactions were set in motion."

"I made a significant number of new contacts and am now actively engaged in discussions on projects in Puerto Rico, Mexico, the Bahamas and Panama," said David Swartz, managing principal of The Management Consortium, Inc., a Hollywood, Fla.-based hospitality advisory services firm.

The conference targeted Latino hotel owners, developers, lenders, hedge funds, operators and suppliers located in South America, the United

States, Central America, the Caribbean and Mexico. Special emphasis at this year's event focused on hotel opportunities in Chile, Mexico, Panama and Costa Rica.

Opening speakers Bobby Bowers, senior vice president, Smith Travel Research, and Mark Woodworth, president of PKF Hospitality Research, differed slightly on the outlook for the economy, but both agreed that the next 12 to 15 months would be difficult from an operations viewpoint, compared to the past several years.

• Select Service Hotel of the Year-Best Western Inn & Suites, Miami Airport West, owned and operated by Benito Istorza, Miami, Fla., USA • Economy Hotel of the Year-Super 8, Rio Rancho, N.M., owned and operated by Peak Hospitality, Albuquerque, N.M., USA • Hispanic General Manager of the Year-Rita Baca, Doubletree San Diego Downtown, San Diego, Calif., USA • Hispanic Developer of the Year, John Lopez, Suenos LLC , LLC, Oaklahoma City, Okla., USA • Hispanic Management Company of the Year-Benchmark Hospitality International, The Woodlands, Texas, USA • Hospitality Supplier of the Year-KOJO Worldwide, San Diego, Calif., USA • Hispanic Hotelier of the Year-Raul Leal, president, Tecton Hospitality, Miami, Fla., USA

Vendors also rated the event highly. "Our firm landed a number of new projects, and we are in negotiations on a number of others," said Minor Ramirez, Latin America regional representative of Advanced Equipment Corporation. "The diversity of project locations was noteworthy, including Costa Rica, Mexico and Puerto Rico and in the U.S., Denver, Miami and New York."

Corporate sponsors included Hilton Hotels Corporation, Marriott International, Wyndham

Worldwide Corporation, La Quinta, Hyatt, ACCOR North America, Choice Hotels International, Carlson Hotels Worldwide, Starwood and InterContinental Hotel Group.

Food and beverage was not overlooked. A Culinary Masters Luncheon showcased worldclass chefs from four hotels, including Yeni Chacon, Sofitel Victoria Regia; Mauricio Lopez, Hilton Los Cabos; Aaron Chavarria, Hyatt Sarasota; and Paula Dasilva, Marriot Harbor Beach Resort & Spa. Chefs created innovative cuisine with a Latin American flair and were judged by a panel of industry executives and celebrity chefs. The competition was won by Hilton Los Cabos' Mauricio Lopez who received the title "Culinary Master."

About HHOA Headquartered in Washington, D.C., HHOA is a non-profit organization whose mission is to increase the number of Hispanic-owned, -developed and -operated hotels, further the participation of Hispanic-owned suppliers serving the hotel industry and increase executive-level employment opportunities for Hispanics within the lodging industry. The industry's leading brands, including Hilton Hotels Corporation, Marriott International, Choice Hotels International, Wyndham Worldwide Corporation and Global Hyatt Corporation have joined the organization and have become major corporate sponsors.

To learn more about the Hotel Investment Series, contact Angela Gonzalez-Rowe at 202587-5707, or www.hhoa.org.

Other winners included: • Boutique Hotel of the Year-Hilton, St. Louis Downtown, owned and operated by American Property Management Corporation, San Diego, Calif., USA • Resort Hotel of the Year-Softiel Guaruja Jequitimar, owned and operated by Sisan Empreendimentos Imobillarios, Guaruja, Sao Paulo, Brazil • Luxury Hotel of the Year-The Mayflower Inn & Spa, a five-star, five-diamond property in Washington, Conn., owned and operated

by American Property Management Corporation, San Diego, Calif., USA • Full Service Hotel of the Year-Doubletree, San Diego Downtown, owned and operated

by American Property Management Corporation, San Diego, Calif., USA www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 39

Associations|Update

Organizers introduced a number of new events into the traditional hotel conference format that set a festive tone despite the battering taking place in the stock market.

Kicking off the three-day conference was a lighthearted "Battle of the Brands" opening party that pitted four hotel mega-brandsInterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, Hilton Hotels Corporation and ACCOR-in a friendly competition to showcase the best hospitality presentation. Creative elements included exotic foods, a cruise ship motif, Cirque Angels, salsa dancers and a hand-rolled cigar maker.

ACCOR won the Brand Champion title, while Hilton garnered the Best Food & Beverage Award, Wyndham captured the Best Brand Promotion Award and IHG walked away with the Most Engaging award.

The conference also introduced the Estrella Awards, which celebrated the best of the best in Latino relations, operations and management. Hilton received the HHOA Chairman's Award for its trailblazing efforts in support of the organization and outreach to the Hispanic community.

"We are gratified to be recognized with this award and to have been among the first hotel companies to step forward and make a commitment to the Hispanic community," said Craig Mance, senior vice president franchise development North America of Hilton Hotels Corporation. with five Latinos and have four additional projects in the pipeline. We are working to double that number within the next several years as we extend our outreach program to the Hispanic community.

TRAVEL

destinations AROUND ALBUQUERQUE

Luminarias have been a New Mexican tradition for hundreds of years. Though they are primarily a Christmas Eve tradition, some parts of the city have their own luminaria ceremonies earlier in December. The most notable of these is the Hanging of the Greens at the University of New Mexico, where student groups light up the campus with luminaria displays. This usually happens in early December.

History in the making, The Anderson - Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum

Sandia Mountains The Sandia Mountains have long been a landmark and backdrop for the people of the Albuquerque region. Visitors have the unique opportunity to view at close range what previously only the most experienced hunters and rock climbers have known - the rugged and inaccessible rock escarpment of the west face of the Sandias.

Though it’s a short trip from the heart of Albuquerque to the heights of the world's longest aerial tramway, the distance can also be measured in the drama of an 11,000 square mile panoramic view. From the base to the top of 10,378 foot Sandia Peak, time and terrain seem to move in harmony as passengers lift from the desert floor, above canyons and lush forests.

Holiday Luminarias Luminarias are brown paper bags containing votive candles for light and sand for weight.

Every Christmas Eve thousands of them light up Albuquerque, lining the streets with their low, ethereal light. Historically they have been a Christian tradition, lighting the streets to guide Joseph and Mary, as well as to guide people to Christmas Eve Midnight Mass, but they are now put out by people of all faiths for aesthetic as well as religious reasons.

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The Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum presents the development of ballooning through historic, scientific and artistic objects reflecting world-wide achievements in this field. The museum holdings were brought together through the efforts of the Anderson and Abruzzo families, the City of Albuquerque, various local, national and international supporters, and with the support of the Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum Foundation. Collections include material donated by individuals directly involved in ballooning endeavors, as well as by ballooning and history enthusiasts from all over the world. The Museum also holds the Soukup and Thomas International Balloon and Airship Museum collection, donated to the City of Albuquerque through the City of Mitchell, South Dakota in 2000.

The Albuquerque Museum of Art and History The Albuquerque Museum of Art and History has achieved accreditation from the American Association of Museums (AAM), the highest national recognition for a museum. Accreditation signifies excellence to the museum community, to governments, funders, outside agencies, and to the museum-going public.

AAM Accreditation brings national recognition to a museum for its commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards, and continued institutional improvement.

Of the nation's nearly 17,500 museums about 774 are currently accredited. The Albuquerque Museum of Art and History is one of only 10 museums accredited in New Mexico.

The Albuquerque Museum of Art and History first received AAM accreditation in 1984. The museum went through reaccreditation in 1996 and, again, this year.

Meeting Planner Incentives

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R E WA R D I N G C O N F E R E N C E AT T E N D E E S

Associated Luxury Hotels To Give Away "MGM GRAND Detroit Diamond" Gem at Holiday Showcase in December eeting planners and association executives will have the chance to win an impressive 1-carat diamond solitaire being awarded by Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) at Holiday Showcase on December 16, 2008 in Chicago. Planners attending the show will have the opportunity to register for the chance to win the extraordinary "MGM GRAND Detroit Diamond," named after the impressive new hotel, by stopping by and registering for the drawing at ALHI's "Luxury Lane" area at the show (booths 922-932).

"The MGM GRAND Detroit is the 'gem' of the Detroit marketplace for meetings and programs. We are delighted to link the quality of that operation and hotel with our ALHI Diamond giveaway promotion, designed to brightly shine attention on the hotel and our entire Four- and Five-Diamond portfolio," said David Gabri, president and CEO of ALHI. "We conduct the diamond giveaways at major national tradeshows, and at our own tradeshows, as a unique way to showcase our luxurious Four-

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and Five-Diamond member hotels and resorts to meeting professionals, association executives, and incentive specialists."

Gabri added, "Holiday Showcase will be the last one-carat diamond solitaire giveaway for 2008, but we will be starting the signature promotion again in 2009 with the 'Aqua Diamond' giveaway at MPI Meet Differently in Atlanta in early February. The diamond giveaways have proven to be very popular with planners, and we're proud to highlight such an extraordinary 'gem' as the MGM GRAND Detroit at Holiday Showcase."

ALHI has served the meetings and incentive industries for over 20 years with authorized national sales responsibilities for its membership of over 120 premier Four- and Five-Diamond/Star quality hotels and resorts worldwide.

MGM GRAND Detroit is an exceptional new 400-room luxury hotel and entertainment destination in Michigan. Offerings include 30,000 square feet of meeting space (which includes an impressive 14,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom), the region's finest gaming,

nine rooftop VIP suites, a variety of unique lounges for casual to high-energy nightlife, a beautifullyappointed spa, an indoor pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, fine signature restaurants, and casual dining.

Earlier diamonds awarded in 2008 include the "Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa Diamond" at MPI-PEC in February; the "Ojai Valley Inn & Spa Diamond" at ASAE Springtime in April; the "ALHI Diamond" at ALHI's Luxury Showcase in Washington, D.C. in May; the "InterContinental London Park Lane Diamond" at ALHI's Luxury Showcase in Chicago in July; the "Pebble Beach Resorts Diamond" at MPI-WEC in August; the "Seaport Diamond" at ASAE Annual in August; and "The Island Hotel Newport Beach Diamond" at ITME - The Motivation Show in September.

Each diamond is named for one of ALHI's distinguished members.

With a diverse luxury portfolio of more than 85,000 rooms and suites and 9 million square feet of meeting space, ALHI serves as a dedicated dues-based National Sales organization that enables planners to gain reliable one-call access to its outstanding member hotels and resorts that specialize in meetings and incentive programs requiring from 10 to more than 5,000 rooms.

Member properties include extraordinary meeting resorts, incomparable city hotels, exclusive smaller hotels, golf resorts, historic and landmark properties, island destinations, resorts with spas, properties in international destinations, and hotels with gaming or entertainment.

Associated Luxury Hotels has 16 professionally-staffed National Sales Offices to serve, with locations in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Louisville, Miami, New York City, North Carolina, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Richmond, San Diego, Toronto and Washington, DC. Go to www.alhi.com to identify the ALHI staff in your area.

For more information about Associated Luxury Hotels, or to inquire about a potential meeting at any of the ALHI member properties, contact your nearest Associated Luxury Hotels National Sales Office, or call the "ALHI Luxury Group Desk" toll-free at 866-303-ALHI (2544). Information about Associated Luxury Hotels and its member properties also may be obtained by visiting www.alhi.com .

Downtown San Jose Hotel Offers Groups the Opportunity to Create Customized Packages to Fit Their Individual Business Needs This month The Sainte Claire hotel kicks off the new "3 Steps to Success" package giving meeting and event planners the opportunity to customize their group's stay to fit their individual needs, budgets and interests. Showcasing more than 10,000 square feet of meeting space in unique and intimate settings such as their distinctive Grand Ballroom, spacious Boardroom and airy Courtyard Atrium, all featuring state of the art technology and natural light. the hotel is an ideal location for small intimate gatherings to grand affairs for 450 guests. The "3 Steps to Success" package allows planners to choose from a wide list of features so as to create the perfect, customized package when booking 50 guest rooms or more per night.

The "3 Steps to Success" package includes the following features: All groups are offered the following: •

20% off The Sainte Claire's Best Available Rate (BAR)

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An additional 5% off the total guest room bill upon conclusion of the event

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Complimentary wireless Internet access in guest rooms and meeting rooms

ABOUT THE SAINTE CLAIRE The Sainte Claire, a member of the Larkspur Collection, is set in heart of downtown San Jose, California. The Sainte Claire is a property within Larkspur Hotel & Restaurant's premium brand of hotels, offering unique and individual experiences complemented by the local flavor and surrounding community. The Larkspur Collection focuses on delivering a sensorial guest experience, upscale amenities and exceptional service. The Sainte Claire features 170 uniquely designed guest rooms, each restored from their original 1926 construction. Just minutes away from the San Jose International Airport, and just steps away from local attractions and points of interest such as the McEnery Convention Center, the Tech Museum of Innovation and the HP Pavilion, the hotel is convenient to all of San Jose's offerings.

Within the hotel, The Sainte Claire features complimentary wireless Internet access and food and beverage services from their restaurant partner, Il Fornaio Cucina Italiana Restaurant. For group reservations, please call, Elizabeth Rose, Director of Sales & Marketing directly at 408.271.3338 or erose@larkspurhotels.com. Individual reservations made be made at 408.295.2000 or toll free at 866.870.0726. For more information, please visit www.thesainteclaire.com.

ABOUT LARKSPUR HOTELS & RESTAURANTS Established in 1996, Larkspur Hotels & Restaurants is a rapidly growing company headquartered in Larkspur, California, just north of San Francisco.

Larkspur boasts a portfolio of 23 hotels, including three distinct hotel brands: Larkspur Landing, Larkspur Hotels and The Larkspur Collection along with six exciting destination restaurants. All Larkspur hotels offer the signature FeatherBorne bed package, upgraded amenities, high-tech efficiencies and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Each Larkspur restaurant is designed to blend into its local setting, deliver creative culinary concepts, innovative design and exceptional culinary techniques. Larkspur Hotels & Restaurants is driven by its belief and commitment to Genuine Hospitality - delivering warm, friendly and personalized experiences to its guests.

The Larkspur Collection is a premium collection of hotels, each of which offers its own unique, individual experience, complementing the local flavor of the surrounding area. The Larkspur Collection focuses on delivering a sensorial guest experience, upscale amenities and exceptional service.

The company's most recent addition is SANO Spa at the Casa Munras hotel in Monterey, California, which opened in July 2008. For more information, please visit www.larkspurhotels.com.

Planners may also select any two of the following exclusive features: •

50% off meeting room rental

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10% off Audio/Visual equipment

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One complimentary guest room per 30 rooms booked

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Planners who book a second event at The Sainte Claire by December 31, 2008 will

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Receive 25% off the Best Available Rate for all guest rooms, plus an additional complimentary guest room

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Upgraded room accommodations

All meeting planners will receive an American Express gift card based on the revenue acquired from bookings, previous to tax and gratuity, upon the conclusion of the event.

Gift cards are offered at the following revenue: • • •

$250 gift card for $5,000- $9,999 $500 gift card for $10,000-$14,999 $750 gift card for $15,000 or above

The "3 Steps to Success" package is available at The Sainte Claire hotel beginning in October 2008 and is offered to groups booking 50 rooms or more per night. All packages are based on availability.

The Sainte Claire is a member of the Larkspur Collection, a premium brand of hotels offering unique and individual experiences complemented by the local flavor and surrounding community. The Larkspur Collection focuses on delivering a sensorial guest experience, upscale amenities and exceptional service. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 43

Meeting Planner Incentives

THE SAINTE CLAIRE HOTEL ENTICES GROUPS WITH ITS NEW "3 STEPS TO SUCCESS" PACKAGE

DESTINATIONS

traveldestinations

INTERNATIONAL

Villa La Estancia Nuevo Vallarta/Riviera Nayarit Announces Grand Opening he Villa Group, a leading privately owned real estate hospitality development company, announced that Villa La Estancia Nuevo Vallarta/Riviera Nayarit has completely finished construction and all areas are completely available to guests.

According to Carlos Aquino, Corporate Director The Villa Group said that the first phase of the luxurious property has been accepting guests for almost a year. "Now we have all our magnificent suites open for occupancy and the splendid amenities are fully functioning," he said. Located on the shores of famous Banderas Bay in the beautiful Riviera Nayarit area Villa La Estancia is surrounded by lushly landscaped grounds. A freeform swimming pool, dancing fountains and whirlpool spas complete the setting of the tranquil resort which offers comfortably elegant rest and relaxation to visitors.

Villa La Estancia features 245 well appointed suites ranging from 1,200 sq. ft. (one-bedroom) to 3,350 sq. ft. (3 bedrooms). Smaller, but equally deluxe guestrooms are also available. The one-, two- and three- bedroom suites feature a complete kitchen with three-stool breakfast bar, full-size refrigerator, four-burner stovetop with oven, microwave, toaster, blender, coffee maker, garbage disposal, dishes, cookware and utensils. Each of the spacious

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suites is stylishly decorated with marble floors, granite countertops, whirlpool tub, walk-in shower and spacious balcony. Wrought-iron gates open to Hacienda-style entryways where individual doors lead into each suite.

Other in-suite amenities include individually-controlled air conditioning, ceiling fans, LCD televisions with satellite movie service, direct dial telephone with voicemail, highspeed Internet access, electronic safe, hair dryer, iron with ironing board, clock radio, walk-in closet, wet bar on balcony, daily maid service, turndown service (on request) and inroom dining. In-suite dishwashers, as well as laundry rooms with full-size washers and dryers, are provided in the two- and three-bedroom suites.

Guests at the resort may now also enjoy an exquisitely intimate spa experience at Tatewari Spa. "We are extremely proud of our spa which is praised for being a unique healing sanctuary for mind, body and spirit," said Aquino.

Designed in European-Mexican style, the 17,000 square foot facility features views of magnificent mountain ranges and Banderas Bay. Generous hydrotherapy centers for men and women include a spacious Jacuzzi, cold plunge, cold pressure showers, waterfalls, steam rooms, saunas and Swiss showers.

Treatments range from ancient mud wraps to men's facials.

Villa La Estancia Nuevo Vallarta / Riviera Nayarit boasts two of the areas best restaurants, especially La Casona, the only restaurant in Nuevo Vallarta to feature Kobe and Angus Certified beef, this fine dining venue offers an airconditioned dining room or open-air terrace flanked by a wood-burning fireplace.

Recently the recipient of the coveted AAA Four Diamond Award, more information about the spectacular new resort can be found at www.villagroupresorts.com Founded in 1984, The Villa Group is one of Mexico's leading privately owned real estate development companies. Its portfolio also includes beachfront timeshare resorts located in Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, and Los Cabos, as well as well as fractional and full-ownership luxury real estate developments. Additionally, new timeshare and fractional properties are slated to open in Loreto and Cancun respectively in 2010.

eventscalendar m e e t i n g s

Denver will host the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Conference September 16-19, 2009.

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c o n f e r e n c e s

March

July

Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities 14th Annual National Capitol Forum on Hispanic Higher Education Madison Hotel Washington, DC March 1-3, 2009

LULAC National Convention & Exposition San Juan, Puerto Rico July 13-18, 2009

May

USHCC National Convention Denver, CO September 16-19, 2009

Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility HACR Symposium New York, NY May 17 - 19, 2009

November

December

NSHP Diversity Career Fair San Jose, CA November 6, 2008

IAHMP 13th Annual Educational Conference & Tradeshow San Diego, CA December 3-7, 2008

SHPE National Conference Phoenix, Arizona November 12-16, 2008

2009

June

February

National Association of Hispanic Journalists 27th Annual Convention San Juan, Puerto Rico June 24-27, 2009

Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund (MALDEF) 34th Annual Dinner Los Angeles, CA November 13, 2008

USHCC Latina Leadership Summit - Procurement Las Vegas, NV Feb 19-20, 2009

September

October SHPE National Conference Washington, DC October 28 - Nov 1, 2009 Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities 23rd Annual Conference Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, Orlando, FL October 31-November 2, 2009

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