Hosteltur special itb 2014 by hosteltur_2014

There was a 10.5% increase in the number of events held in 2012 and the financial impact grew by 1.7%

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Conference tourism continues to grow steadily in Spain Spain maintains its strength as a conference destination with a 10.5% increase in the number of events held and a 1.7% increase in the economic impact generated in 2012; trends which will in all likelihood have continued into 2013, but which have yet to be confirmed by the final figures for the year. Spain also gains market quota with respect to international destinations, although smaller cities report a fall in the number of visitors.

he positive way in which conference tourism is developing in Spain is evident in the data collected by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) which only analyses large international events and reports that Spain was the venue chosen for 312 large scale meetings in 2003 and has reached 550 a decade later; a 76.2% increase. The number of conferences, conventions and total event days held in Spain increased by 10.5% during 2012, the last full year we have complete data for, thanks to figures provided in the study conducted by the Spain Convention Bureau (SCB) using information based on all 57 cities within the group. In total Spain was the venue for 19.913 meetings which were attended by over 3 million people, 4.9% less than the previous year, with an average of 152 delegates per meeting. Half of the meetings organised took the form of single days (52.5%); 6.672 were held in convention format and the rest as conferences (2.783). All three formats experienced an increase 2

MICE 2014

compared to the figures registered a year before, although the format to experience the highest growth rate was conference events, which grew by 26%. 25.8% of all events held in Spain were international meetings; 5.144 meetings of this type took place, which represents an increase in market quota in relation to other stand out

Companies budget 5.056 million for MICE The total budget which companies with offices in Spain set aside for event organisation in 2013 was around 5,056,059,275 Euros, according to the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Questionnaire on Spanish companiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; MICE investment in 2013â&#x20AC;&#x2122;; a study on the volume of activity and the financial value of companies with over 100 workers located in Spain, as conducted by the Business Travel Institute in collaboration with nou-u the online platform for the MICE market.

destinations such as Germany or Austria. National meetings also grew to 9.205, representing 46.2% of the total. Almost a million Over 940.000 foreign visitors within the MICE sector visited Spanish destinations in 2012, and they represented 31.1% of the delegates taking part in conferences, conventions and event days. In 2011, foreign visitors represented 38.3%. The decrease in the number of foreigners attending was compensated by the increase in the number of national participants, almost 70% of the total. Within this category, most of the participants came from the Community of Madrid and Catalonia, at 24% and 20% respectively. These two communities are the ones which accommodate the highest number of events and are also the ones which generate the highest flow of conference tourists to other regions within Spain. Financial impact Each conference or convention participant at an SCB destination spent an average of 653 Euros in 2012; 322 Euros on registration fees, another 233 on travel and 97 on accommodation.

In addition, they spent a further 89.7 Euros on daily expenses, mainly on food -over half-, and the rest on shopping, transport and entertainment. As indicated by the SCB, the sum of these costs can be translated as a financial impact (direct expenditure) of 5.110 million Euros, a figure which includes both the amount spent by delegates at their meetings and the amount spent by their travel partners - all in all a 1.7% increase when compared to the previous year. Madrid and Barcelona experienced the highest growth rates in relation to 2011, but only as concerns the number of meetings (which grew by 26.8%), the number of participants fell by 6%. If we consider the cities by their population rates, medium sized cities (those with 100.000-200.000 inhabitants) and those of up to 500.000 inhabitants, experienced a 6% and 9% growth respectively in the number of total meetings, as well as a 9.6% and 1% growth in the number of participants. Cities with less than 100.000 inhabitants are the ones which experienced the greatest decrease in the number of visitors, a 28% fall. The previsions for the end of 2013 are encouraging. SCB’s 57 member cities estimate that figures in 2013 will reflect a continued increase in the number of meetings over the last few years, but at the same time, they predict a fall in the total number of participants, in the same vein as the previous year. As for average daily expenditure, it is also expected to be similar to what it was during 2012. More conferences held at congress palaces The most important sectors when it comes to the organisation of events continue to be the medical/health and financial/commercial sector, which jointly represent 42% of the total number of meetings held. The seasonal nature of meeting tourism in Spain continues to experience the same trend and the holiday season is slowly getting longer. The months with the highest number of events are May and October, followed by June

Spain improves its position with 4.6% of the global quota

he United States has been the world’s most popular destination for conferences and international conventions during the last 50 years, while Germany is the second most preferred destination and has been for the last 15 years - but China, Brazil and Spain are the countries which have gained popularity the quickest. The above data is taken from a report called ‘A Modern History of International Association Meetings, 1963-2012’, edited by The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) in honour of the entity’s 50 anniversary. The ICCA only registers congresses and conventions which are held regularly, with locations which rotate annually across at least three different countries and with a minimum of 50 participants. So taking into consideration this criteria, the States were the chosen venue for 173 meetings during the period comprising 1963-1967 while Spain was chosen for 51 international congresses and conventions during the same period. As far as the worldwide market quota is concerned, 9.6% of the meetings held during this period were held in the United States and 2.8% in Spain. In the five year period between 2008 and 2012, with ever increasing competition, 4.277 meetings were held in the United States, representing a total worldwide market quota of 7.8%. 2.523 international conferences and conventions were held in Spain, a figure which means that the country reached a worldwide quota of 4.6%. Spain currently occupies 13th place in the ICCA ranking. The growth experienced by Spain regarding the number of participants in the afore mentioned large scale events is very significant: for the 61.540 events recorded between 1963 and 1967, the number of delegates multiplied by 18; reaching a total 1,105,736 from 2008-12.

and November. As for venues, a third of the meetings were held in hotel event rooms (35%). 2012 saw a 2.5% growth in the number of events held

Iconic destination for Asian visitors Spain is one of the destinations favoured by Asian visitors for conference tourism, together with Italy and France, according to a study carried out by Reed Travel Exhibitions. The report details the opinions of event planners who attended the CIBTM fair in China and shows that Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, France and Switzerland, as well as Spain, are considered to be the favourite destinations for conferences, meetings and incentive trips. The report also suggests excellent results for 2014 as almost two thirds of the Asian survey respondents indicated that they would increase the volume of events they organise in relation to the last year and 72% predicted that they would go for new destinations.

at congress palaces, making these 27% of the total. Over half of the meetings were attended by 50 to 150 delegates. There were less meetings of 151-250 delegates, these fell by 7.8 points when compared to 2011, while meetings of 251 to 500 participants continue to grow, maintaining a trend which has been evident over the past three years. The average duration of meetings held in 2012 was 2.44 days, a slight decrease compared to the previous year but longer than the average duration registered in 2010. A large majority of participants chose hotel accommodation (88%) although there was a decrease in the number of people choosing this option. The most popular type of accommodation is 4 star hotels. MICE 2014

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Analysts predict that the coming year will bring recovery for the conference sector in Spain

Conference tourism looks to 2014 with optimism a year of growth, after the discreet figures registered over the past three years. The surveys and calculations carried out by analysts detect a foreseeable increase in prices at hotels specialising in conference tourism in 2014 after a moderate year in 2013, as well as a tendency towards more events being held nearer cities and an increase in interest for alternative venues. They also predict a significant increase in business trips and incentives, after the stability experienced over recent years. The president of OPC Spain, Vicente Serrano, is of the same opinion as the international associations surveyed together with IMEX and the ICCA, in that 2014 is expected to bring sustained growth - in fact 30% of the associations questioned predict that they will organise more meetings and 47% expect higher attendance at the same.

The MOMAD Metropolis Fair in Ifema

Spain’s main associations and analysts for the sector believe 2013 will come to a close with slightly higher figures and with very few changes – much as it has in previous years- but they do predict that 2014 will come with significant recovery for the industry. The EIBTM trend report indicates that innovation and flexibility are key if this optimism is to translate into results and in order for Spain to be able to compete.

he statistics recorded over the last 50 years show that the market for international meetings has grown 100% every 10 years with so far no signs of deceleration, as reported by the “A Modern History of International Association Meetings, 19632012” report, edited by theInternational Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), an entity which is now over 50 years old. In the specific case of Spain, its development as a conference destination has been

MICE 2014

unstoppable - it has gone from organising 51 conferences and international conventions between 1963 and 1967, with 61,540 participants, to being the 13th most popular worldwide destination for this type of meeting, with 2,523 meetings and over 1.1 million delegates between 2008 and 2012. In the last decade alone, this activity in Spain has grown by 76.2%. Going forward, the main agents for the sector all agree that 2014 is predicted to be

Palaces recover The statistics indicate that congress palaces are the main venues at which large scale meetings are held in Spain, as 70% of the international events organised take place in these; events which boast between 1000 and 4000 participants. For 2012, over half the conferences and conventions held were international and in the last 5 years alone over 25,000 events have taken place, attended by 21.5 million people, which in turn have generated almost 8 billion Euros. These results show that, despite the difficult financial situation which exists within the national market, conference venues have been working very hard to secure more international events and to further develop this sphere, and Spain has been able to position itself as a destination of choice for conference tourists. To quote the president of the APCE, the Association for Congress Palaces in Spain, Jose Salinas, the previsions for 2013 ‘’do not seem to indicate great changes with respect to the previous year, but rather a continuation of current trends.’’ However, in 2014, the previsions for certain destinations seem to show a certain amount of recovery for conference activity as a whole. In the same way, the AFE, Spanish Fair

Association, claims that moving forward into 2014, the year is expected to be very similar to 2013, and that fair activity is expected to continue very much in the same vein: ‘’And we hope the economic situation will improve and allow us a further boost for future years,’’ they said. From fragility to stability The annual report on trends presented at the EIBTM fair also recognises the fragile recovery experienced during 2012, to a more sustained worldwide economy in 2013, which has been reflected in the growth of worldwide demand for meetings, events and business trips, and which will become more powerful according to almost all previsions for 2014. According to Rob Davidson, the EIBTM’s analyst and university professor for Business Meeting Management, in 2014 ‘’meetings, events and business trips will continue to be critical conductors which help organisations in their efforts to reach their strategic objectives and to communicate in an effective way with their staff, clients and members the world over.’’ The EIBTM trend report stresses that 2013 will be remembered as the year in which optimism returned to the meeting and event industry across the world, as the positive economic predictions have mostly come true. But the economic recovery, if confirmed, ‘’seems too timid and unequal for us to expect immediate benefits for our industry’’ it reports. Innovation and flexibility are key The EIBTM analysts predict that meeting budgets will remain under pressure and that the approval procedure for events will probably continue to be very strict as companies the world over scrutinise their strategies with the aim of achieving their objectives, increasing efficiency and keeping costs under control. Most meeting suppliers, infrastructure and event services ‘’still have a long way to go to get back to the levels enjoyed by their companies in the years before the recession,’’ the report details. However, the data collected in the trend report for 2014 is more positive than it has been for several years which EIBTM considers to be ‘reason enough to be optimistic’ about the year ahead. The report stresses that ‘’innovation, flexibility and the ability to compete in a highly controversial market’’ are key if that optimism is to be translated into results. The market prospection carried out by the IMF, International Monetary Fund, predicts that the 2.9% worldwide growth rate for this

year will be followed by a global growth of 3.6% in 2014, when the main source for expansion will be advanced economies. Within these economies, it is expected that production will increase at a rate of 2% in 2014, around three quarters of a percentile point more than in 2013. Growth within the Eurozone continues to be limited by weak economies on the periphery even though after two years of contraction, the EIU expects that growth can begin again in the region in 2014, even if only by 0.6%. Emerging markets and developing economies are expected to grow by 5%. Staying nearby for meetings The EIBTM’s report on trends within the conference sector quotes the analysis carried out by the Advito 2014 Industry Forecast, which states that the demand for meetings will stay strong and will grow, not in a spectacular way, but steadily, in 2014. The Advito predicts moderate growth in prices within the meeting sector and that in addition, as demand has increased over the past year, hotels will try to raise their prices in a more significant way in 2014 than they did in 2013 – this will be felt more keenly in cities which are preferential conference destinations. At the same time, the Global Analysis of the Meeting Industry conducted by American Express Meetings & Events for 2014 shows a

key trend identified by event planners for the next year: companies expect to hold meetings near their headquarters and will look to celebrate their meetings in their own regions and even within their own facilities. This is due to companies trying to be more efficient and to save costs and time, as they are looking to find alternative ways to control costs and reduce the amount of time spent outside the office. In addition the study carried out by American Express on 2013 already revealed that event organisers were considering using non traditional venues for their meetings, such as open air spaces, universities and aquariums, a trend which has been confirmed by the predictions for 2014, especially in Europe and Asia where there is a 2.5% increase in demand for alternative venues. Moderation in Europe The situation will not be the same the world over. According to the analysis carried out by CWT, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, the persistent economic worries in Europe are making event organisers very wary and careful, a fact which is affecting hotels most of all. According to CWT, this atmosphere will translate into a reduction in the size of groups, moderation when it comes to deciding on the number of participants, and the daily expenditure per person will remain the same as a result of the

MICE 2014

fact that suppliers have been obliged to lower prices to stimulate demand. For Carlson Wagonlit Travel, the number of meetings will remain stable and the number of attendees will fall slightly, by 1.8%, except for in the United Kingdom and Germany, where demand will be higher. In the United States, the sector will grow by 1.5%, the size of groups will increase slightly in 2014 and the daily costs per delegate will grow by 5.5% due to the fact that the demand for meetings will continue being slightly higher than the limited services on offer, causing a slight increase in price. In Asia Pacific there will be an increase in the number of meetings and conferences, with moderate growth in group sizes and expenditure. The demand will remain strong. The data presented by American Express indicates that in Central and Southern America, the number of conferences is expected to remain stable while the number of meetings may fall slightly, by 1.4%. The number of delegates will increase and the sports events to take place in Brazil are expected to produce a key boost in the area.

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Technology and automotive As for the sectors which create the highest number of international events, one of the strongest players at the end of 2013 is the information technology and communication sector (ITC) as almost 80% of the directors who took part in the survey used to create the EIBTM report expect to increase their income in this field. The leading countries in this sphere continue to be the United States, China and India, but the ones showing the highest growth rates are Brazil, Canada, Mexico and South Korea. This optimism is due to the predicted investments by ITC companies in the development of new products and services, research and development, acquisitions and territorial expansion. The automotive industry will grow by 3% in 2013 and will reach a 4% growth which will remain steady from 2014-2018 according to the Alix Partner’s Global Automotive Review and Outlook which reflects that the automotive sector’s behaviour will not be homogeneous even though it will be boosted by the recovery of the United States and the increase in BRIC countries, despite the setbacks experienced by Europe. The pharmaceutical sector is the one which generates the highest added value per employee as well as the one with invests the most in research and development in relation to its business volume. Even if the pharmaceutical industry experienced a 2% fall in the

MICE 2014

All set for an event at the Melia Jardines del Teide.

five main European markets and a 1% fall in the United States, it grew by 16% in Brazil and 21% in China. As for the construction sector, 2014 will be a better year than 2012, according to 53% of the respondents of the survey conducted by Timetric which indicates that the emerging markets in 2014 will be India, Brazil, United Arab Emirates, China and Saudi Arabia. Construction will also grow, although less significantly, in the United States, Canada, Singapore, Australia and the United Kingdom and will show slight growth in France, Italy and Spain. After the sharp falls, the analysts indicate that residential construction will not experience a significant recovery in Europe until 2015. Incentive Trips Taking into account the fact that, on a global level, there has been an increase in share prices and company profits, Advito predicts that there will be a moderate increase in the number of business trips in 2014, but that companies will remain prudent when it comes to spending. The accumulated demand over recent times is expected to create a significant increase in the incentive trips organised in order to capture new clients, but the report warns that companies may choose to prioritise cost control over investment. The GBTA, Global Business Travel Association, predicts a moderate increase in business trips in Europe, especially due to the expansion of key European economies. In the United Kingdom, for example, the amount spent on travel, both national and international will increase in 2014; international trips

will double their growth by up to 3%. Demand for international travel will grow by 3.3% in France and by 5.4% for domestic trips, according to GBTA-BTI. A 1.4% growth in the amount spent on internal travel is calculated for Italy and a 1.9% growth in international tourism. The “GBTA BTI ™ Outlook” group predicts that the amount spent on business trips by the five main markets in Western Europe will reach 144,700 million Euros, with a 3.3% increase in relation to 2013; It will grow by 7.2 % in the United States up to 288,800 million dollars and China will lead the predicted growth in business trips with an expansion of 17.2%.

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ALCOBENDAS

ALCALĂ DE HENARES

More than events

Founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International is one of the largest hotel chains in the world, as well as the absolute leader in the Spanish market. It currently operates more than 350 hotels distributed throughout 40 countries across 4 continents, marketed under the brands Gran Meliá, Meliá, ME by Meliá, Innside by Meliá, Tryp by Wyndham, Sol and Paradisus. Club Meliá, the only holiday club available from Spanish hotel chains, complements the Company’s range of products and services. Thanks to its strong and distinctive brands, and to the highly diverse geographical locations and product range, the company maintains a customer satisfaction index of more than 80%. Throughout its history, the Company has played a key role in different merger and/or acquisition processes in the hotel industry, enabling it to grow at a staggering rate. This growth and the strategic focus on international expansion has enabled Meliá Hotels

International to establish itself today as the leading Spanish hotel chain with a presence in key markets such as China, the Persian Gulf and the United States, as well as maintaining its leadership in traditional markets such as Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean. The hotel chain is also a leader in Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility in the tourism sector, a commitment that forms an integral part of the company’s strategy. Meliá Hotels International is the only “Biosphere Hotel Company”, endorsed by UNESCO, the first company in the sector to be included in the responsible index of the Spanish Stock Exchange FTSE4Good and is a signatory of the United Nations Global Compact. It also maintains a strategic alliance with UNICEF for child protection, which has become its priority within the social context.

Meliá Atlanta

Gran Meliá brings together the company’s most luxurious hotels under a renewed flagship brand, incorporating more than 58 years of experience in the hotel industry and the values established by Meliá Hotels International. Its exclusive Red Glove Meetings & Events concept has been designed for incentive trips, events and meetings of the highest level at the heart of the world’s major destinations.

Meliá Valencia

ME by Meliá is a contemporary interpretation of the Meliá experience, hotels with a great personality in which avant-garde design, international cuisine, cutting-edge technology and the ultimate client experience all play a key role. The perfect combination for innovative and creative events in a truly cosmopolitan environment. Spectacular 5 star resorts on the shores of exotic beaches and in exceptional spots in the Caribbean, offering an All-Inclusive luxury concept. Renowned for their original style of architecture, they are certainly designed for the finest incentive trips in a sophisticated setting, exclusive services, exquisite cuisine and endless possibilities for unique events. Meliá Hotels & Resorts is the most well-known and international brand within the company’s portfolio, with more than 90 urban hotels and beach resorts in the world’s main leisure and business destinations, renowned for their design, service and sensory experience. These hotels are equipped with excellent facilities for all kinds of events, and the exclusive concept of the brand, Power Meetings by Meliá, guarantees a personalised service and highly-qualified personnel specialising in event management.

Meliá Villaitana

ME London

Innside by Meliá includes a selection of urban hotels with a strong lifestyle component, offering a flexible and efficient service, with a contemporary design and the latest technology. Its event facilities offer a different and original alternative in an avant-garde style for holding conferences in the major European capitals. Central hotels offering a select service at average prices, designed for guests to enjoy their stay to the full in the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. When it comes to meetings, TRYP by Wyndham offers all the facilities for creating the ideal working environment. Its meeting rooms have been especially designed to enhance productivity, as well as maintaining a comfortable environment in which exceptional coffee breaks can be enjoyed. The Sol brand offers the ideal establishments for an enjoyable holiday in the main tourist destinations in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. These resorts boast comfortable rooms, a wide range of restaurants and bars, large swimming pools and an extensive activity programme for guests of all kinds to enjoy their days of leisure to the full.

Gran Meliá Rome

I down to the finest of details

Meliá Bali - The Garden Villas

Our Essence Meetings and Events by Meliá Hotels International encompasses all initiatives relating to the product, the service and the team of professionals within the area of groups, conventions, conferences, incentive trips and events. We have more than 100 hotels in 26 countries available for this area, clearly and simply classified according to their characteristics.

• Cuisine, our mark of distinction. We combine our spirit of innovation with the utmost culinary excellence, offering the best options for healthy eating, fine food and restaurants in all of our hotels.

Our Values • The Team, our greatest asset. We have global and regional sales teams specialising in this area of business, present in more than 23 countries and with group reservation desks in Madrid, Miami, Mexico and Sao Paulo, providing our clients worldwide with a professional, flexible and efficient service.

Our Commitment Excellence, efficiency and flexibility. 58 years of experience lie behind our track record and guarantee the greatest success for our clients.

• The Service, our passion. The vocation of service is one of our company’s fundamental values, reflecting passion in everything we do, our commitment and hard work aimed at exceeding our clients’ expectations.

• Innovation, our constant goal. We anticipate the needs of our clients and incorporate the latest market trends in order to offer the most innovative products and services.

Visit MELIA.COM/MEETINGS for further information or to request a quote, and you will hear from us within 24 hours.

Meliá Castilla

Opportunity Dates Our exclusive online tool available at melia.com/meetings allows you to view a calendar, showing the best rates for groups and all the special promotions available from our wide portfolio of hotels and destinations. Customized website for events Our hotels can create a webpage, free of charge, which can be customized to any event previously confirmed at any of our hotels. The attendees can make their individual reservations at any time through this webpage and at the contracted event rate. Meeting Package (DDR) Our meeting package portal, available at melia.com/meetings, features competitive and standardized prices to make the planning of simple meetings easier in more than 120 hotels worldwide. All basic services are included at a fixed price per person, allowing the meeting planner to control and adjust the cost of the meeting.

Our Mas Amigos Loyalty Programme Our renowned loyalty programme rewards the loyalty of travel agents and meeting planners by allowing them to accumulate points for groups and events confirmed in any of our 300 hotels worldwide. The points can then be exchanged for hotel stays and a fantastic range of gifts. Corporate Social Responsibility We support sustainable events and venues. Meliá Hotels International holds the certification as a Biosphere Hotel Company, which guarantees our social, environmental and cultural commitment. A very good example of this is the new sustainable programme developed by the hotel brand Melia: “Ecotouch Meetings by Melia”.

Meliá Vienna

I a world of possibilities

Paradisus Palma Real

EUROPE

ASIA

AMERICA

AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST

COUNTRY

CITY

HOTEL

CATEGORY H

ROOMS

MEETINGS ROOMS

SQUARE FEET

MAX. THEATRE

CAPE VERDE

ISLA DE SAL

MELIÁ TORTUGA BEACH

286

180

1937

120

EGYPT

SHARM EL SHEIKH

MELIÁ SHARM

468

840

9042

410

U.ARAB EMIRATES

DUBAI

MELIÁ DUBAI

164

156

1679

110

TANZANIA

ZANZIBAR

MELIÁ ZANZIBAR

124

420

4521

160

ARGENTINA

BUENOS AIRES

MELIÁ BUENOS AIRES

BAHAMAS

NASSAU

MELIÁ NASSAU BEACH

209

641

6900

330

726

7620

82024

1200 260

BRAZIL

SÃO PAULO

MELIÁ JARDIM EUROPA

255

370

3983

BRAZIL

ANGRA DOS REIS

MELIÁ ANGRA MARINA

200

368

3961

350

CUBA

LA HABANA

MELIÁ COHIBA

462

1233

13272

500

CUBA

LA HABANA

MELIÁ HABANA

397

828

8913

300

CUBA

LA HABANA

TRYP HABANA LIBRE

572

2169

23348

700

CUBA

VARADERO

PARADISUS PRINCESA DEL MAR

434

564

6071

400

CUBA

VARADERO

PARADISUS VARADERO

510

535

5759

350

CUBA

VARADERO

MELIÁ MARINA VARADERO

549

1442

8180

600

CUBA

VARADERO

MELIÁ VARADERO

490

1382

14876

250

DOMINICAN REP.

PUNTA CANA

PARADISUS PALMA REAL

554

4000

42510

1240

DOMINICAN REP.

PUNTA CANA

PARADISUS PUNTA CANA

685

2361

25414

1100

DOMINICAN REP.

PUNTA CANA

MELIÁ CARIBE TROPICAL

1128

2000

21529

820

EEUU

ATLANTA

MELIÁ ATLANTA

502

2880

31001

700

MEXICO

CANCUN

PARADISUS CANCÚN

678

2880

31001

1400

MEXICO

CANCUN

ME CANCÚN

419

630

6781

320

MEXICO

LOS CABOS

ME CABO

155

195

2098

100 1140

MEXICO

LOS CABOS

MELIÁ CABO REAL

305

1534

16512

MEXICO

MEXICO DF

MELIÁ MÉXICO REFORMA

489

2677

28816

860

MEXICO

PLAYA DEL CARMEN PARADISUS PLAYA DEL CARMEN LA ESMERALDA

512

1677

18052

1100

MEXICO

PLAYA DEL CARMEN PARADISUS PLAYA DEL CARMEN LA PERLA

394

1817

19559

1400

MEXICO

PUERTO VALLARTA

MELIÁ PUERTO VALLARTA

316

825

8881

600

PANAMA

COLÓN

MELIÁ PANAMÁ CANAL

285

804

8654

600

PERU

LIMA

MELIÁ LIMA

180

698

7513

300

PUERTO RICO

SAN JUAN

GRAN MELIÁ PUERTO RICO

486

3432

36943

900

VENEZUELA

CARACAS

GRAN MELIÁ CARACAS

432

2391

25737

800

CHINA

XIAN

GRAN MELIÁ XIAN (2014)

389

1561

16802

688

CHINA

JINAN

MELIÁ JINAN (2014)

331

1151

12391

650

INDONESIA

BALI

MELIÁ BALI-THE GARDEN VILLAS

494

672

7234

400

INDONESIA

JAKARTA

GRAN MELIÁ JAKARTA

404

3408

36685

2000

INDONESIA

YOGYAKARTA

MELIÁ PUROSANI

280

673

7244

550

MALAYSIA

KUALA LUMPUR

MELIÁ KUALA LUMPUR

288

564

6071

320 1300

VIETNAM

HANOI

MELIÁ HANOI

301

2368

25490

AUSTRIA

VIENNA

MELIÁ VIENNA

253

1089

11721

220

BULGARIA

VARNA

MELIÁ GRAND HERMITAGE

727

1778

19136

300

GERMANY

BERLIN

MELIÁ BERLÍN

364

1200

12917

650

GERMANY

BERLIN

TRYP BERLIN MITTE

229

417

4489

120

GERMANY

DRESDEN

INNSIDE DRESDEN

180

285

3068

200

GERMANY

DÜSSELDORF

MELIÁ DÜSSELDORF

201

1200

12917

240

GERMANY

DUSSELDORF

INNSIDE DÜSSELDORF DERENDORF

160

320

3445

140

GERMANY

FRANKFURT

QGREENHOTEL BY MELIÁ

177

300

3229

220

GREAT BRITAIN

LONDON

ME LONDON

157

637

6857

300

GREAT BRITAIN

LONDON

MELIÁ WHITE HOUSE

581

515

5544

180

ITALY

GENOA

MELIÁ GENOVA

141

1518

ITALY

MILANO

MELIÁ MILANO

288

3574

38471

520

ITALY

ROMA

GRAN MELIÁ ROMA

116

121

1302

ITALY

ROMA

MELIÁ ROMA AURELIA ANTICA

270

1739

18719

700

LUXEMBOURG

MELIÁ LUXEMBOURG

161

663

7137

150

PORTUGAL

AVEIRO

MELIÁ RIA

128

885

9526

260

EUROPE

COUNTRY

CITY

HOTEL

CATEGORY H

ROOMS

MEETINGS ROOMS

SQUARE FEET

MAX. THEATRE

PORTUGAL

BRAGA

MELIÁ BRAGA

182

573

6168

400

PORTUGAL

LISBON

MELIÁ ALDEIA DOS CAPUCHOS

180

1370

14747

400

PORTUGAL

MADEIRA

MELIÁ MADEIRA MARE

220

750

8073

400

SPAIN

A CORUÑA

MELIÁ MARIA PITA

183

1205

12971

350

SPAIN

ALICANTE

MELIÁ ALICANTE

544

2208

23767

425 1000

SPAIN

ALICANTE-C. Blanca

MELIÁ VILLAITANA

455

6000

64586

SPAIN

ALICANTE-Benidorm

MELIÁ BENIDORM

524

2500

26911

450

SPAIN

ALMERÍA

TRYP ÍNDALO ALMERÍA

186

1711

18418

420

SPAIN

BARCELONA

MELIÁ BARCELONA SARRIÀ

333

1536

16534

500

SPAIN

BARCELONA

MELIÁ BARCELONA SKY

258

1167

12562

360

SPAIN

BARCELONA

TRYP BARCELONA APOLO

314

915

9849

550

SPAIN

BARCELONA

TRYP BARCELONA AEROPUERTO

205

355

3821

300

SPAIN

BARCELONA

TRYP BARCELONA CONDAL MAR

162

200

2153

250

SPAIN

BARCELONA-Sitges

MELIÁ SITGES

307

3628

39053

1380

SPAIN

BILBAO

MELIÁ BILBAO

211

519

5587

290

SPAIN

CADIZ-Chiclana

MELIÁ SANCTI PETRI

225

732

7879

350

SPAIN

CADIZ-Zahara

MELIÁ ATLANTERRA

285

1104

11884

275

SPAIN

GIRONA

MELIÁ GIRONA

111

542

5834

250

SPAIN

GIRONA-Caldes

MELIÁ GOLF VICHY CATALÁN

149

1284

13821

285

SPAIN

GUADALAJARA

TRYP GUADALAJARA

159

2415

25996

700

SPAIN

IBIZA

ME IBIZA

200

330

3552

SPAIN

LANZAROTE

MELIÁ SALINAS

270

1171

12605

300

SPAIN

MADRID

GRAN MELIÁ FÉNIX

210

326

3509

100

SPAIN

MADRID

MELIÁ MADRID PRINCESA

274

1531

16480

400

SPAIN

MADRID

ME MADRID REINA VICTORIA

192

370

3983

140

SPAIN

MADRID

MELIÁ AVENIDA AMERICA

322

5500

59203

1200

SPAIN

MADRID

MELIÁ BARAJAS

229

1666

17933

600

SPAIN

MADRID

MELIÁ CASTILLA

915

5000

53821

700

SPAIN

MADRID

MELIÁ GALGOS

356

524

5640

300

SPAIN

MADRID

INNSIDE MADRID SUECIA

127

304

3279

207

SPAIN

MADRID

TRYP MADRID ALAMEDA AEROPUERTO

148

652

7018

250

SPAIN

MADRID

TRYP MADRID AMBASSADOR

183

788

8482

290

SPAIN

MADRID

TRYP MADRID ATOCHA

150

812

8741

250

SPAIN

MALAGA

TRYP MÁLAGA GUADALMAR

197

640

6889

240

SPAIN

MALAGA-Marbella

GRAN MELIÁ DON PEPE

194

1632

17567

320

SPAIN

MALAGA-Marbella

MELIÁ MARBELLA LA QUINTA

172

800

8611

250

SPAIN

MALAGA-Marbella

MELIÁ MARBELLA BANUS

200

519

5587

180

SPAIN

MALAGA-Torremol.

MELIÁ COSTA DEL SOL

540

1008

10850

400

SPAIN

OVIEDO

MELIÁ HOTEL DE LA RECONQUISTA

144

4241

45651

500

SPAIN

OVIEDO

TRYP OVIEDO

118

385

4144

259

SPAIN

P. MALLORCA

GRAN MELIÁ VICTORIA

171

1184

12745

800

SPAIN

P. MALLORCA-Calviá

ME MALLORCA

246

606

7104

SPAIN

P. MALLORCA-Illetas

MELIÁ DE MAR

144

500

5382

220

SPAIN

P. MALLORCA

MELIÁ PALAS ATENEA

361

1840

19806

370

SPAIN

P. MALLORCA

TRYP PALMA BELLVER

384

842

9064

150

SPAIN

STGO.COMPOSTELA

TRYP SANTIAGO

996

10721

400

SPAIN

SEGOVIA

TRYP SEGOVIA LOS ANGELES COMENDADOR

150

1500

16146

500

SPAIN

SEVILLA

GRAN MELIÁ COLON

189

539

5802

240

SPAIN

SEVILLA

MELIÁ LEBREROS

437

2180

23466

550

SPAIN

SEVILLA

MELIÁ SEVILLA

365

3500

37675

1000

SPAIN

SEVILLA

TRYP SEVILLA MACARENA

331

1201

12928

600

SPAIN

TARRAGONA-CAMBRILS TRYP PORT CAMBRILS

156

479

5156

400

SPAIN

TENERIFE

GRAN MELIÁ PALACIO DE ISORA

579

3000

32293

840

SPAIN

VALENCIA

MELIÁ VALENCIA

304

2258

24306

778

SPAIN

VALENCIA

TRYP VALENCIA OCEANIC

197

342

3681

280

SPAIN

ZARAGOZA

MELIÁ ZARAGOZA

245

1550

16685

200

SPAIN

ZARAGOZA

TRYP ZARAGOZA

162

875

9419

250

Group desks I AMERICA Brasil · Brazil 55 11 3043 8438 grupos@melia.com.br

México · Mexico 52 (55) 5141 6044 grupos@melia-america.com

EEUU y Canadá · USA & Canada 1 305 350 9828 meetings@sol-group.com EUROPE Alemania · Germany 0800 18 19 586 gruppen@melia.com

Italia · Italy 800 87 07 76 gruppi@melia.com

Bélgica · Belgium 0800 73 912 groupes@melia.com

Portugal 800 83 42 22 groups@melia.com

España · Spain 901 24 44 44 grupos@melia.com

Reino Unido · U.K. 0808 234 8271 groups@melia.com

Francia · France 0800 91 92 13 groupes@melia.com

Suiza · Switzerland 0800 55 40 94 groupes@melia.com

To contact our sales office from any other country not listed above please contact groups@melia.com

MELIA.COM/MEETINGS

With more than 400 hotels in 26 countries, NH Hoteles is the key to any successful business meeting

Hesperia Tower.

Today more than ever business tourism is one of the basic cornerstones for kick-starting Spain’s economy. That is why NH Hoteles is aware of the importance of the success of any business meeting held in any of the Group’s more than 400 hotels, spread throughout 26 countries worldwide.

H Hoteles’s MICE segment aims to provide an unbeatable customer experience at any event or meeting, offering an accessible and comprehensive service adapted to the customer’s needs

Especial MICE 2014 MICE 2014

with a clear goal: to make each proposal unique and personalised. The events managed by NH Hoteles are: efficient, versatile, cutting-edge and sustainable. Thanks to the teams specialised in

organising these meetings, the customer will receive a detailed proposal in less than 24 hours. NH also has a digital directory where you can quickly find out about all meetings and incentives on offer in Spain (www.directoriomicenh.com). If an event has been contracted, the customer will be able to customise a webpage using the “Event Tool”. All attendees can use this to find out information on the event and make any online room bookings required. NH Hoteles’s MICE segment values are: Simplicity, making it easy for customers to manage their events throughout the whole

the equivalent amount to the environmental cost of their activity to specific sustainability projects.

Hotel Almenara.

Another advantage of the MICE segment, and strength of the Company too, is the commitment to quality, innovative and avant-garde cuisine. NH Hoteles organises work lunches, coffee breaks, cocktails and gala dinners, always in the company of the best professionals and Michelin-starred chefs such as Paco Roncero, Óscar Velasco and Christopher Naylor. The cuisine is as varied as the customer needs it to be: revitalising and healthy NH Antiox breakfasts, personalised coffee breaks, theme buffets and regional menus, among other options.

Hesperia Lanzarote

process; Trust, generated by the operating excellence, reliability and consistency of the NH chain, and Personalised service, ensuring close customer cooperation and understanding. The MICE segment in figures NH Hoteles has the most comprehensive event-holding service of any hotel group. The company has more than 2,500 meeting rooms worldwide, of which around 650 are in Spain. It has capacity for 98,000 people, 34,500 in Spain, allowing it to organise all types of small or large meetings and conventions, with the very highest standards of quality and service: from car or other product and service launches and fashion shows to international political summits, everything is possible at NH Hoteles. The company is also a pioneer in organising responsible and sustainable events and conventions. This has been one of NH Hoteles’s main goals, having been offering

for several years now its innovative ‘Ecomeeting’ product for those organisers who want to offset the CO2 emissions of their events. The customer can therefore allocate

MICE in Spain The most representative hotels in this segment include the NH Eurobuilding and Hotel Hesperia Madrid in the capital, the Hesperia Tower and NH Constanza in Barcelona, the NH Central Convenciones in Seville and the resorts, Hesperia Lanzarote and the Almenara de Cádiz hotel. Strategically located in the heart of the capital’s financial district, the NH Eurobuilding hotel offers an ideal location for organising national and international events. The

Hesperia Madrid.

Especial MICE 2014

hotel is close to the Palacio de Congresos y Exposiciones conference centre on the Paseo de la Castellana and to many of the city’s most emblematic buildings such as Torre Europa, Torre Picasso and the Azca business centre, and also has privileged access to the Juan Carlos I trade fair and exhibition site (IFEMA). Spread over two successive floors and equipped with the most modern technology, it has 3,400 m² of room space divided into 32 meeting rooms with natural light that can simultaneously host up to 2,900 people with capacities for 10 to 1,000 attendees, from the 830 m2 Gran Salón Madrid room with capacity for 1,000 people to the smaller capacity 70m2 Monaco and Malta rooms, which have all the same facilities as the large rooms. It also offers a wide range of services and avant-garde cooking which combines innovation and tradition on a floor exclusively dedicated to restaurant services. All of this is designed to cater to every customer detail. Also in the capital and on the Paseo de la Castellana, the hotel Hesperia Madrid is a clear example of contemporary luxury in the city, elegantly blending modern and avantgarde interiors with classic design spaces. Ideal for holding top-level business meetings, it has six meeting rooms with a capacity for 550 people. Of note is the Salón Saura room, which includes a simultaneous translation booth. The Hesperia Madrid also has an ultramodern Business Centre service catering to all the needs of those customers who require it. Since its opening, the hotel has paid close attention to its cuisine. Proof of this is its two

NH Constanza.

Especial MICE 2014 MICE 2014

Hesperia Tower.

Michelin star restaurant, Santceloni, headed by chef Óscar Velasco. The hotel also has the La Manzana restaurant which offers exquisite market cuisine, the Hikari Sushi Bar and the Scotch Bar. Another strategic business city is Barcelona, home to the Hotel Hesperia Tower opened in 2006. It is 107 m high and is one of the tallest and most symbolic towers in the city. The building, designed by renowned architect Richard Rogers in collaboration with Alonso and Balaguer, impresses as soon as the guest enters the imposing inner court-

yard with its comfortable sitting area and elegant bar. This hotel has a 5,000 m² conference and convention centre, with separate street access, which can be adapted to all requirements thanks to its multi-purpose rooms. A stand-out feature is the large 1,614 m² Cosmos room on the main floor. The hotel also has an auditorium with capacity for 500 people and 6 break outs that can be arranged in different ways, located on the floor below. On the third floor there are four multipurpose rooms occupying a total of 500 m², all with access to outdoor terraces which provide the ideal environment for cocktails and social events. Another business benchmark in this city is the NH Constanza, opened in 2007 and located between Avenida Diagonal and Calle Numancia, right opposite the L’Illa shopping centre in the heart of Barcelona’s business and financial district. With an avant-garde architectural style and decoration, the hotel is devised around spacious brightly lit spaces, built with materials such as stainless steel, glass and travertine marble, and surrounded by contemporary art. The NH Constanza takes the utmost care of every detail, offering a stylish well lit environment and splendid service. It has 7 large capacity meeting rooms for holding events and ensuring the success of every business meeting. Its restaurant is located within a welcoming and multi-purpose space which offers excellent creative cuisine with

NH Central Convenciones.

delicious high-quality Mediterranean dishes able to delight even the most demanding of palates. In the south, in the city of Seville, is the NH Central Convenciones, an ideal space for holding the best corporate events. This fourstar hotel is located on the ‘Golden Mile’, two metro stops or a 15 minute walk from the old quarter. But if anything highlights in particular the value of this establishment it is its conference centre, one of the most important in Spain to the NH Group and consisting of 11 open plan, partitionable rooms with natural light which have the added attraction of two restaurants and cafeterias, as well as a terrace for 350 people. The ‘Gran Salón Andalucía’ room has a maximum capacity for 1,000 participants in , the Centre’s showpiece, which has five partitionable modules, eight metre high ceilings and equipment including simultaneous translation booths. With regard to the resorts, NH Hoteles has the Hesperia Lanzarote hotel located in the easternmost point of the Canary Islands archipelago. It offers its guests a break far from the stress of everyday life in a completely relaxing environment with a wide variety of leisure and business facilities and servi-

Hotel Almenara.

ces. This resort has a maximum capacity for 400 people split between seven versatile conference rooms and an auditorium with a capacity for 217 people. These are spaces elegantly equipped with the latest audiovisual technology, simultaneous translation booths, video projectors, electric projection screens, electroacoustic systems, videoconferencing equipment and much more. The magnificent Hotel Almenara is a four-star resort located in the heart of Sotogrande, on the Costa del Sol. Close to the beautiful Mediterranean beaches, surrounded by some of the best golf courses

in Spain, the hotel is a splendid place for enjoying all types of open-air activities and an unbeatable destination for meetings and events. The hotel has a modern elegant design and exquisitely decorated open spaces full of natural light. The hotel has a conference centre and two spacious and elegant rooms that can be configured in various ways, ideal for corporate and private events such as car or high-end product launches. Its beach club is perfect for all types of celebrations throughout the year: gala dinners by the sea and poolside, barbecues, etc.

CONTACT INFO www.nh-hotels.com

Especial MICE 2014

PARADORES, There is nothing more productive than a perfect day

On the outside, the character and regal architecture of old monasteries, ancient castles and unique beautifully restored buildings, all surrounded by nature or part of a great cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic old town. On the inside, a team of professionals who will work as your partners from the moment you start planning your event.

Cocktail party for the inauguration of the Spanish Society of pathological anatomy, Parador de Cadiz.

he comprehensive array of services for business meetings, conferences and incentives offered by Paradores adapts to the needs of each company, and is enhanced by the location of its establishments, many with excellent flight, train and land connections to the following cities: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Malaga, Seville or Bilbao. No less important is its peculiar range of

Worldwide presentation of the video game â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Gran Turismo 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Parador de Ronda.

22nd National Conference, Spanish Society of Legal Psychiatry, Parador de Cadiz.

facilities, with unique spaces to act as venues for all types of events: castles, monasteries, palaces, convents or state of the art buildings, as well as its variety of bespoke conference

centres, for small or large format events, offering clients the possibility of hiring any centre out for their own exclusive use. This unique hotel chain offers a different

MICE 2014

way to celebrate your events or for celebrating your success with your partners; its professional team will always offer you solutions which are adapted to your needs, from

Golf Open, Parador de El Saler.

El Corte Ingles Fashion Show ‘Your Autumn is Here’, Parador de Leon.

the first time you get in touch, to the end of your event. Paradores’ corporate MICE team boasts over 20 years experience advising our customers and providing professional services, experience and product knowledge. grupos. reservas@parador.es Tel: 915166672-73 A prime example of the flawless combination of work and pleasure we can provide is to be found at the Parador de la Granja, located within the old Casa de Infantes, as well as its Conference Centre Guardia de Corps.

This establishment, together with the Parador de Segovia, makes a perfect venue for large events, thanks to its two auditoriums which can accommodate 400 and 350 delegates respectively and which are equipped with cabins for interpreters; these two Paradors have 28 rooms between them and offer a total surface area of 5000m2 available for events. Apart from the facilities available in the Segovia province, there are also Paradors such as Baiona, Cordoba, Benavente, El Hos-

tal de los Reyes Católicos in Santiago and the San Marcos in Leon, Malaga, Plasencia, Sigüenza or Mojacar. All of the above offer sufficient attractions to make your event an incredible experience, allowing you to enjoy good food with lunches and dinners inspired by classic Spanish cuisine, designed according to the requirements of each occasion, from low calorie working menus to gala dinners, or Medieval, Arabic or Roman themed meals which satisfy the most demanding of company requirements, and above all providing the style and personality which only Paradores can offer. In addition customers can seize the oppor-

Atento company convention. Parador de Alcala de Henares.

tunity to discover nature reserves, visit picturesque villages or immerse themselves in the art and history of the place, whilst not missing out on any modern hotel amenities and free WIFI access. In short, Paradores is delighted to offer you a portfolio of Paradors specially selected for your event. We invite you to discover them.

Further information: Roche Lunch, Parador de Alcala de Henares.

www.eventosenparadores.es/top-25

MICE 2014

A destination with excellent reviews

AND

Andalusia: conferences are doing away with the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seasonality The range of services offered by the Andalusian conference industry is one of the most extensive in the country, with 569 venues for events and meetings. This sector has a powerful effect on the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tourist season. Here, small conventions and meetings take precedence and visitors are staying over for shorter periods of time, even while the number of international meetings is on the increase.

he Andalusian region occupies one of the top positions in Spain when it comes to the organisation of meetings, conferences, conventions, incentive trips and product launches. It has a great deal to offer this type of tourism with a total 569 venues, including 17 congress palaces, 443 hotels and 109 unique buildings, as detailed in the latest report by the Andalusian Tourism and Commerce Ministry. In total, Andalusian venues can cater to 344.000 people. 18% of this total capacity is offered by exhibition and conference centres and 26% by unique buildings; hotels represent 56% of the capacity, 90.000 of which are part of establishments which can accommodate over 300 delegates. Malaga and Seville are the provinces which cover over half of the capacity available. Specifically, Seville offers 29% of the total and Malaga 24%. They are followed by Cadiz with 13%, Granada with 9%, Cordoba and Huelva with 7%, Jaen with 6% and Almeria with 5%. The meeting and conference sector is causing the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tourism season to become less limited - the low season for this industry is July and August, the main period 22

MICE 2014

Andalusia can cater to all types of events. Photo of the reception at a conference in the Exhibition and Conference Centre in Seville.

for holiday tourists. According to all the establishments which have provided us with information about their conference activity during 2012, March, May, October and November account for over 10% of the meetings held and together represent 44% of the total number of meetings and conferences held that year in Andalusia. The results are similar when we consider the number of participants - although March loses importances in favour of September, these four months represent 45% of the total participants during that year. The main type of event held in Andalusia is conventions and corporate meetings, usually with less than 50 delegates. In fact 38% of the meetings held in Andalusia in 2012 were of this category, a percentage which of course only represents 14.7% when it comes to the number of participants. As for the number of meetings, one day events, seminars and symposiums accounted for 20.8% and conferences for 6.5% of all events held. When we take the number of people attending into account, one day events and seminars accounted for 19.6% of the total

and conferences for 16.1% of the total. Meetings and conferences held in Andalusia are typically of short duration. The current situation has emphasised this fact; the number of meetings which last just one day, in other words with no overnight stay, has continued to increase in 2012 and these represent 72% of the total number of meetings held in Andalusia, which in turn means the region is missing out on an opportunity to generate further economic revenue from the venues as well as from their tourism attractions. As for the distribution per number of participants, meetings which last just one day continue to prevail but the percentage they represent is now more moderate (56.7%). More international meetings Andalusia as a destination tends to attract a great deal of regional and national meetings; together these account for 90.4% of the meetings held and 86.8% of the participants. Even if international meetings account for a small percentage of the events held in the region, we have observed a moderate growth in meetings of this type.

In 2012, Andalusia received a total of 1.76 million meeting and conference delegates, which means numbers have fallen 3.9% since 2009. 602.000 of these delegates are tourists (5% less than in 2009) and they have spent a total amount of 282 million Euros, 9% less than in 2009. The average amount spent daily by a participant or delegate, including all the costs that affect the region, is 173.47 Euros, this amount was slightly higher in 2009 (186.96 Euros) but continues to mean that the sector provides one of the highest rates in this regard. The average length of stay remains constant however, at 2.7 days. For conference attendees, the most significant spending is the amount spent on room and board - 86% of the budget, while 7.7% is taken up with shopping. This segment is very closely connected to the use of hotels as accommodation during their stay - in 2012 85% of tourists opted for this option, although the current financial situation means that less people are choosing hotels, preferring to stay with friends or family. Also worth noting is the high percentage of meeting tourists who decide to stay at a hotel

suggested by the event organisers (74.1%). The most relevant complementary activities to conference breaks in Andalusia are cultural or to do with gastronomy. Excellent reviews Conference tourism is very valuable in Andalusia because it is a way of attracting future visits for different motives. 83.4% of the tourists who took part in the survey claim to be willing to return to Andalusia, and the region’s culture and sun and sand attractions are their main motivations to do so. Andalusia received the equivalent of a grade B score (8.2 points in a scale of 1 to 10) as a meeting and conference destination, and its personalised service, gastronomy and accommodation were the factors most highly rated, all scoring over 8 points. If we consider the overall importance of each concept and the customer satisfaction for each, it becomes clear that 75% of tourists are satisfied or very satisfied with each activity encountered. Especially worth noting are the high scores given to personalised service, a trend which should continue as any change in this would have a significant effect on overall

satisfaction in the sector as it is one of the most important concepts for meeting and conference tourism. Gastronomy is also an important value to maintain. Amongst Andalusia’s strengths when it comes to conference tourism, what first comes to mind is its warm weather and sunny skies throughout the year, while another element which is very highly valued is the fact that it offers both coastal and interior options. As for connections, Malaga airport provides direct connections with all main markets, while the AVE rail network operates routes between the interesting ‘triangle’ of SevilleCordoba-Malaga with maximum accessibility for those travelling regionally or nationally. Andalusia presented a new project in December; the Director of Fairs, Conferences and Meetings plan, promoted by the Tourism and Commerce Ministry, which will develop nine specific programmes the aim of which will be to optimise the facilities and services Andalusia offers for events and to position the region as a leading tourism destination within this sector on a national level. Ángeles Vargas

Renewed proposals across the region

The Andalusian conference sector reinforces the competitiveness of its offering The Andalusian conference sector becomes more competitive every day and its main venues are very profitable. New options, such as the updated services offered by Cadiz or an ambitious rennovation in Cordoba allow us to assess the sector’s current status.

or Seville, the year 2012 was a very profitable one. The Seville Exhibition and Conference Centre, Fibes, generated 17 million Euros and gained 46,500 overnight stays thanks to large scale conferences held. The city occupies 100th place in the worldwide ranking registered by the ICCA, the International Association for Conferences and Conventions with 22 international conferences held in 2012. The Andalusian capital

has improved its position immensely since 2010 when it was at number 214, in 2011 it occupied 134th place. This improvement has coincided with the work carried out by the Seville Congress and Convention Bureau, which means that the association has really helped the city - in fact it generated 65 million Euros last year for the group of companies it represents. Cooperation is extremely important in the

city. Fibes has signed an agreement with theSeville and Province Hotel Association to promote both entities at once. As for Fibes, the old congress palace, it has been directed by one sole company since the end of 2013 and its new precinct was opened in September 2012. The Seville county office’s society, Prodetur, its focusing its promotional efforts on the MICE sector at the different fairs within the “Territorio Toro” programme, a project which shows firm commitment to incorporate bullfighting, a fundamental part of Seville’s economy and idiosyncrasies into its tourism offering. In fact, there are 150,000 hectares across Andalusia which are dedicated to the rearing of bulls, and over 30% of these are located within the province of Seville, at over 80 farmsteads spread across the region. MICE 2014

Ambitious rennovation in Cordoba The month of August saw the beginning of the comprehensive rennovation work to be carried out at Cordoba’s Congress Palace. The budget for the project is 2.7 million Euros and work will take place in two phases. The first phase involves the addition of a roof to the Patio Azul and the extension of the seating capacity within the Salón de Actos to 800 seats as well as its remodelling - featuring the installation of equipment and furniture as well as improving accessibility. This phase is expected to be complete by June 2014. The second phase will focus on the main courtyard and will also include the refurbishment of the chapel’s façade and the rest of the rooms within the palace. In total, the palace will be able to cater to up to 1200 delegates, mainly in the main function room, while the Patio Azul will be used for catering, concerts or conferences. Meanwhile, the County and Town Hall of Cordoba created a commission in October to monitor construction work and manage its future convention centre. However, the town hall has had to declare void the tender held for the convention centre project and design. Three proposals were presented but none responded to the requirements, which means that another tender will have to be announced.

AND

New palace in Sanlucar Happy news for Sanlucar (Cadiz) with the opening at the end of October of the Sanlucar Conference and Convention Centre, a 1.6 million Euro project which created 900 jobs within the Profea programme. The centre occupies a restored building, a previous Police Headquarters, so the building work involved demolition and deconstruction to ensure the new facilities were open plan; structural elements and the roof had to be restored; new connections installed, and the exterior had to be completely remodelled, turning it into a exhibition room, as well as service and catering area. The facilities cover a total 2000 metres squared, half of these covered space. The new centre, named Primera Vuelta al Mundo has already hosted its first exhibition, the Expo Sanlucar opening from the 25th to the 27th of October, an event which 40 companies participated in. Malaga, breaking records Conference tourism at the Costa del Sol has generated 70 million Euros in the province of Malaga, as indicated by a study conducted by

MICE 2014

the Tourism Board in collaboration with the Association for Business People and Professionals of Marbella. The entity claims that the Costa del Sol’s hotel capacity, infrastructure, services, climate, optimal transfers and overall attractiveness mean that it has a lot of potential to grow as a conference tourism destination. The Convention Bureau Costa del Sol brand was renewed as a reaction to the above and aims to advance in its objective to make the area the third most important Spanish destination within the conference, meeting and incentive sector, overtaking the Basque Country, Seville or Valencia. According to the Tourism Board the countries most likely to organ-

Figures for 2013 are inclined to repeat the figures recorded for the conference sector within the province the year before. 4,300 meetings and over 700,000 participants, which meant a year on year increase of 10% in the number of events. This year marks the twentieth anniversary of the Convention Bureau, the department within the Costa del Sol’s Tourism Board which specialises in the promotion and sale of the meeting, conference and incentive product, and which currently has 81 members. Bendodo has mentioned the boost experienced since 1993 regarding this sector in the province - back then there were only two congress palaces, one in Torremolinos and one in Mar-

Seville has attracted important events during 2013. Conference in Fibes.

ise conferences in the province of Malaga are Canada, the United States and Great Britain. Meeting, conference and incentive tourism in the Costa del Sol will grow by 5% this year, according to predictions from the Tourism Board, whose predictions have been agreed to by professionals from the sector who also feel the trend will continue until 2015. The president of the Costa del Sol Tourism Board and the Malaga council office, Elias Bendodo has recently stressed how important conference tourism is for the destination, as it helps to break seasonality and the average daily expenditure for this type of tourist is about 240 Euros (including hotel accommodation), which is much higher than that of other types of tourist.

bella, whereas as now the region also boasts palaces in Estepona, Malaga and Ronda. It is worth noting that the Marbella Congress Palace has become a member of the international ICCA association this year. At the same time, the Malaga Fair and Congress Palace has been very active during 2013; it received around 7000 delegates during the last three months of the year and over 134.000 visitors at various fairs. The director of the palace, Yolanda de Aguilar has highlighted the fact that all the events held in 2012 were held again at the palace this year, adding that these also registered an increase in the number of companies taking part. Ángeles Vargas

Conferences in Costa del Sol

Costa del Sol celebrates Convention Bureau’s 20th anniversary with 5% growth

4,300 meetings, 702,000 attendees In 2012, Málaga Province played host to 4,300 meetings and events, attended by 702,071 people. As in the rest of Spain, this means an increase in the number of events over 2011 (+10.4%), with a direct impact on the economy of more than €411 million. Forecasts for 2013 place the rise in the number of events at 5%. It must be borne in mind that meeting and conference travellers spend €240 a day on average (including accommodation).

The President of the Málaga-Costa del Sol Tourist Board, Elías Bendodo, with the prize winners.

This year, Costa del Sol celebrates the 20th anniversary since the launch of the Convention Bureau, the MálagaCosta del Sol Tourist Board department specialising in the promotion and marketing of MICE products and services in Málaga Province. The Bureau’s 20th anniversary (1993-2013) reflects the growth of this sector in Málaga, which has become one of the leading MICE travel destinations in Spain. Currently, the Costa del Sol Convention Bureau has 81 members.

he celebrations were accompanied by a meeting by the working group made up by a conference centre, nine hotels, six incoming travel agencies and three service companies, analysing the sector’s strengths and weaknesses, taking stock of this year’s developments, and analysing future prospects. Also on the occasion of its anniversary, the Costa del Sol Convention Bureau awarded accolades to five companies and a professional whose efforts in 2013 were outstanding to place the Costa del Sol among the leading

MICE travel destinations at the international level. The award winners, chosen by the working group, were Cititravel DMC, España Incoming & Incentives, Técnica Incentives and JJ Associates (incoming travel agencies), Isoluz (service company), and Juan Moreno (retired travel agent who worked for Iberoservice). Many of the members who cast their votes for these winners considered the Málaga-Costa del Sol Tourist Board itself as one of the driving forces in the meeting tourism sector for the past two decades.

Reasons for growth The meetings and events tourism sector has taken a qualitative leap: in 1993, there were only two conference and exhibition centres in Málaga Province, in Torremolinos and Marbella. Three more were added: Estepona (1996), Málaga (2003) and Ronda (2008). The growth was also triggered by the promotion efforts made by the Málaga-Costa del Sol Tourist Board. Only in 2013, 54 activities and events were included in the organisation’s Action Plan for this segment (plus 17 multi-segment initiatives) and were expected to have a positive impact: business missions, professional workshops, trade shows, international events, fam trips, door-to-door campaigns, and so on. 17 of these activities were held in the last three months, MICE travel being the segment with the largest number of promotional actions in this period (out of a total of eight segments). Of course, the sector’s growth is also associated with the virtues of Costa del Sol itself as a travel destination, meeting all demands from conference travellers in terms of cultural and culinary activities. The best rated aspects among this kind of travellers are the weather, the existing hotels, citizen safety and event venues. Finally, infrastructure development in the past two decades also added value to this segment: expanded airport, high-speed trains and new road connections (highways and toll motorways).

CONTACT: Plaza de la Marina, 4 - 29015 - Málaga Teléfono: +34 952 12 62 72 Email: info@costadelsol.travel Web: www.visitacostadelsol.com

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ARA

Zaragoza goes international as a MICE destination

12 events were held in Zaragoza in 2012, attended by a total 116.000 delegates which in turn meant an income of almost 60 million Euros, according to reports by the local Convention Bureau. During the first eleven months of 2013, this entity has worked with over 230 meetings and some 40.000 participants. In 2013, the medical and health sector has been the main source for conferences, with events such as the CEIIB, the International Conference for Emotional Intelligence and Well-being and the Spanish Society’s Conference on Infectious Diseases Zaragoza’s Water Tower during the and Clinical Microbiology, attended Volkswagen Golf 7 presentation. by 1.300 delegates. Also held in Zaragoza were the 1st Conference for Tourism Competitiveness in Spain in September and the 5th Latin American Cultural Conference ‘Digital Culture, Culture Online’, in November. In 2012, Zaragoza was the venue chosen for an event organised by Volkswagen attended by over 14.000 people, and this was an important boost for the city as a meeting destination. As a result of this event, the tourist

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sector and public institutions decided to internationalise its MICE product with a proposal based on its adequate infrastructure, hotel capacity and its numerous cultural attractions which are especially interesting to the incentive segment of the market. To boost this internationalisation, presentations have taken place in Düsseldorf and Munich during 2013 showcasing Zaragoza and what it has to offer in the way of meetings to MICE agencies, PCOs, event and incentive agencies and corporate directors from influential companies across sectors such as automobile, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, insurance and telecommunication. Huesca establishes its position Huesca is also trying very hard to establish itself as a MICE destination. In 2013, 25 events took place here, ten more than the year before, with some 3000 delegates. In addition, the Fundación Huesca Congresos has gained another nine members, which means it now boasts over 50. According to the manager of this entity, Beatriz Bañales, the MICE sector is one of the sectors which has the most impact on tourism. In October this year, the Congress Palace will host the 12th edition of the Jornadas de Gestión y Evaluación de Costes Sanitarios, an event dedicated to the management and assessment of sanitary costs, which will be the ‘largest medical conference ever held in the city,’ said Ms Bañales, who was keen to remind us that Huesca is a city which is ‘accessible, comfortable and calm’ in which a visitor does not even need a method of transport to get to the Congress Palace from their hotel for example.

· INTERESTING FACTS · CONVENTION BUREAUX

ZARAGOZA CONVENTION BUREAU Eduardo Ibarra, 3 (Auditorio Palacio de Congresos) 50009 Zaragoza Tel: 976 721 333 Fax: 976 721 327 www.zaragozaturismo.es - zcb@zaragoza.es FUNDACION HUESCA CONGRESOS Plaza López Allué s/n - 22001 Huesca Tel: 974 24 34 45 Fax 974 292 154 info@huescacongresos.com www.huescacongresos.com

CONGRESS PALACES

AUDITORIO PALACIO DE CONGRESOS DE ZARAGOZA Eduardo Ibarra, 3 - 50009 Zaragoza Tel: 976721300 Fax: 976350514 www.auditoriozaragoza.com informacion@auditoriozaragoza.com

Tel: 902023935 Fax: 902023936 www.feria-congresosteruel.com palaciodeteruel@telefonica.net

PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE ORGANISERS

ASOCIACIÓN ARAGONESA DE OPC Paseo Sagasta 19, Entlo Dcha - 50008 Zaragoza Tel. 976211748 Fax. 976212959 www.dico.es dico@dico.es

ADMINISTRATION

GOBIERNO DE ARAGÓN Edificio Pignatelli - Pº María Agustín,36 - 50071 Zaragoza Tel: 976714000 www.aragon.es - portal@aragon.es DEPARTAMENTO DE INDUSTRIA, COMERCIO Y TURISMO Edificio Pignatelli - Pº María Agustín, 36 Tel: 976714000

PALACIO DE CONGRESOS DE JACA Avda. Juan XXIII, 17 - 22700 Jaca (Huesca) Tel: 974356002 Fax: 974355663 congresosjaca@aytojaca.es www.congresosjaca.es

DIRECCIÓN GENERAL DE TURISMO Edificio Pignatelli - Pº María Agustín,36 50071 Zaragoza Tel: 976 71 47 35 www.turismodearagon.com

PALACIO DE EXPOSICIONES Y CONGRESOS DE TERUEL Ctra. Sagunto - Burgos, s/n - Parc. Los Planos Apartado de correos 297 - 44002 Teruel

PATRONATO PROVINCIAL DE TURISMO DE TERUEL Pl. San Juan, 7 - 44001 Teruel Tel: 978647400 Fax: 978647434

PATRONATO MUNICIPAL DE TURISMO DE HUESCA Plaza de la catedral, 1 - 22002 Huesca Tel: 974 292 100 Fax: 974 292 163

ASSOCIATIONS

HORECA ZARAGOZA Pº Sagasta, 40, Of. 5 - 50006 Zaragoza Tel: 976210922 información@horecazaragoza.com www.horecazaragoza.com

ASOCIACIÓN PROVINCIAL DE HOSTELERÍA Y TURISMO DE HUESCA Pl. Luis López Allue, 3 - 1º dcha. - 22001 Huesca Tel: 974240261 Fax: 974239101 asociación@hosteleriahuesca.es www.hosteleriahuesca.com ASOCIACIÓN PROVINCIAL DE EMPRESARIOS DE HOSTELERÍA Y TURISMO DE TERUEL Plaza Catedral, 9, 1º - 44001 Teruel Tel: 978618080 Fax: 978618081 asociaciondeturismo@cet-teruel.org www.teruelturismo.es FARATUR. FEDERACIÓN ARAGONESA DE ASOCIACIONES DE ALOJAMIENTOS RURALES Pza. Cristo Rey, s/n - 44140 Cantavieja (Teruel) Tel: 964185250 www.ecoturismoaragon.com - info@ecoturismoaragon.com

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A Natural Paradise in which authenticity and the avant-garde mark a highly professionalized destination

Choosing Asturias always has its advantages Few destinations offer as many possibilities for meetings, conferences and incentive travel as Asturias. Its facilities, professional teams, fantastic food, environmental treasures, cultural offerings... all the ingredients to make any event a guaranteed success.

he Principality of Asturias has a spectacular variety of venues for congresses, meetings and incentive travel, with natural and urban landscapes that alternate along more than 300 kilometers of the best-preserved coast in Spain before reaching mountainous areas that peak at over 2,000 meters and boast six UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. In addition to this diversity, if we add that you can enjoy all this just one hour away from any of the three urban centers, you’ll understand why you can find everything you need in Asturias. Locations From a wide variety of spaces in Laboral-City of Culture, the largest building in Spain, to small rooms in upscale hotels in the heart of Picos de Europa National Park, Asturias offers unique and remarkable venues for any type of event: palaces, museums, wineries and cider houses and spaces so avant-garde that they become trendsetters, like the Niemeyer Center or the “City of

Santa María del Naranco. Photo: Benedicto Santos

Oviedo” Exhibition and Congress Hall. All this accompanied by an offering of 3,300 different establishments with a lodging capacity for 83,000 people, 17% of which is located in the centers of Avilés, Oviedo and Gijón, together forming an urban structure of 600,000 inhabitants, with over 250 facilities for all types of events. Professionals The human factor is key to ensuring the success of any initiative, and Asturias has a strong business structure that includes everything from professional congress organizers to caterers and catering companies, event agencies, bus and coach companies, travel agencies specializing in business travel and active tourism companies that complete the firmly consolidated offering of professionals who work in the Centro Niemeyer. Photo: Infoasturias

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meeting tourism sector in Asturias. All of these, along with the Business Club, Convention Bureau and destination management companies, are your best allies for guaranteed results for any project. Cultural and heritage offerings Asturias combines treasures such as Paleolithic and Romanesque Art, declared World Heritage by UNESCO, with first-class cultural events, such the Opera Season in Oviedo, the Prince of Asturias Awards and the International Gijón Film Festival, and a calendar full of cultural options and museums to complete any social program. Gastronomy A whole world to explore, with wine and cider tastings, workshops and food samplings at unique facilities, where you will find producers offering 40 different varieties of artisan cheeses; Cangas Quality Wine, which has been given the “heroic viticulture” label as a result of the complex topography of the hillsides where the vines are grown; cider made from native varieties of apples; sausages, such as Chosco de Tineo; Cantabrian seafood and beans (called “fabas” in Asturias), the basic ingredient of the Principality’s most authentic dish: “la fabada” (bean stew).

CAN

The Santander University Hospital attracts health sector meetings Medicine was the main theme for one in every three events held in 2012

A sketch of the Botín Centre which will be opened next summer and will be an important attraction for meeting tourism.

The importance of Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital (HUMV) is evident in the amount of meeting tourism arriving in the capital of Cantabria, the main hub for this kind of activity in the region. In fact, last year 31.73% of the events held here were organised by the medicine and health sector. This is a trend which has continued throughout 2013, as indicated by the figures collated during the first three months and highlighted by the Convention Bureau.

he events which took place over recent months include two which stand out for their high attendance rates; the European Society’s 19th Annual Conference on Regional Anaesthesia and Pain Treatment (ESRA), with 800 participants and the Arrhythmia Cardiology Conference with 700 attending.

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At the same time, other sectors which also organised meetings can be divided as follows; the financial and commercial sector which organised 29.15% of the events held, followed by the university sector (13.65%), cultural sector (11.44%), public (7.01%), scientific (3.69%) and the technology sector with 3.32%. As for facilities, the Palacio de Exposiciones y Congresos de Santander stands out with its surface area of almost 10.000 metres squared, within a state of the art building designed by architects Gabriel Gallegos and Juan Carlos Sanz and boasting the Q awarded by the Spanish Quality Tourism Institute. Its largest space is the Salón El Sardinero at 2.660 metres squared. Also worth noting is the future Botín Art Centre, which will be opened in Santander next summer and which, by constantly adding to the city’s artistic and cultural agenda, will doubtless have an important financial impact on the region. Amongst other things it will make the city more attractive for national and international meeting tourism. The Cantabrian capital has drawn up a strategic plan called Santander 2020 which it hopes to use to boost innovation in the city and to reach an intelligent development model which will offer efficient and quality services to its citizens with the use of cutting edge technology. In fact, Santander is a pioneering city which belongs to the Spanish network of intelligent cities (RECI), a platform which features a total of 41 cities and which is currently presided over by Santander’s mayor, Iñigo de la Serna.

· INTERESTING FACTS · CONVENTION BUREAUX SANTANDER CONVENTION BUREAU Jardines de Pereda, s/n 39004 Santander Tel: 942203002 Fax: 942203005 www.santanderconventionbureau.com congresos@santander.es

CONGRESS PALACES PALACIO DE FESTIVALES Y CONGRESOS DE CANTABRIA Gamazo s/n 39004 Santander Tel 942361606 Fax: 942364061 www.palaciofestivales.com PALACIO DE EXPOSICIONES Y CONGRESOS Real Rancing Club, 3 39005 Santander Tel: 942 290 040 Fax. 942 290 088 www.palacioexposiciones.com palaexpo@ayto-santander.es

PALACIO DE LA MAGDALENA Avda. Reina Victoria, s/n 39005 Santander Tel: 942 203084 www.palaciomagdalena.com palaciomagdalena@ayto-santander.es PALACIO DE DEPORTES Avda. del Deporte s/n 39012 Santander Tel: 942 200 800 Fax: 942 200 848 imd@ayto-santander.es www.santanderdeportes.com

ADMINISTRATION GOBIERNO DE CANTABRIA Peña Herbosa, 29 39003 Santander Tel: 942207208 Fax: 942207214 www.gobcantabria.es gobierno_cantabria@gobcantabria.es DIRECCIÓN GENERAL DE TURISMO Miguel Artigas, 2-4, 1º,3º Y 4º planta 39002 Santander Tel: 942208286 www.turismocantabria.es

PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE ORGANISERS ASOCIACIÓN DE EMPRESAS DE OPC DE CANTABRIA Calvo Sotelo, 19-3º 39002 Cantabria Tel: 942230627 Fax. 942231058 secretariageneral@opcecantabria.es www.opcecantabria.es

ASSOCIATIONS ASOCIACIÓN EMPRESARIAL DE HOSTELERÍA DE CANTABRIA General Dávila 115, 39006 Santander Tel: 942367030 Fax: 942367136 www.hosteleriadecantabria.net

Santander Exhibition and Congress Centre

C/ Real Racing Club, 3 39005 Santander Tel.: 942.29.00.40 Fax.: 942.29.00.88 www.palaciodeexposicionesycongresos.com www.palacioexposiciones.com palaexpo@ayto-santander.es

The Santander Exhibition and Congress Centre completes the range of facilities offered by the Cantabrian capital thanks to its welcoming, versatile and functional character. It is ideal for hosting all kinds of events: trade shows, conferences, workshops, exhibitions, meetings and conventions, among others, in an area of almost 10,000m2. It is an avantgarde building, fully accessible and equipped for people with disabilities. In addition to possessing subdued beauty and elegance, the modern building also features state of-the-art technological resources and all the support services required to meet the needs that arise in organizing large gatherings.

**ALL SPACES HAVE VOICE AND DATA CIRCUIT, AIR CONDITIONING AND WIFI

HALLS

m 2

CARACTERÍSTICAS TÉCNICAS

El Sardinero 2.660 It can dissociate aesthetically through a system of curtains Bahía 2.440 Moveable soundproof panels (up to 11 rooms of 100 m2 each) Assembly room 275 pax Computer projection system * PA systems * Simultaneous translation

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The Catalonia Convention Bureau promotes new destinations and products

CAT

The MICE sector attracts 10% of the tourists who come to Catalonia

Photo: Patronat de Turisme de la Diputación de Lleida.

Catalonia is Spain’s leading meeting tourism destination; almost a million and a half tourists arrive in the region every year in order to attend events or enjoy an incentive trip, thereby generating an economic impact which has not fallen under 1.3 billion Euros during recent years. Over 80% of this activity is concentrated in Barcelona, a fact which is driving authorities to promote the potential of the rest of the region for this sector.

atalonia received over 14.4 million foreign tourists during 2012, 10% of which came to the region for professional reasons, on business trips, to attend fairs and conferences or on an incentive trip, according to information from the Catalan Tourist Agency (ACT). In order to boost its MICE services, the Catalonia Convention Bureau (CCB) has adjusted its strategy and has launched a new international catalogue focused on venues and special activities for conventions, incentives and events. The CCB is backing the development of two differentiated programmes with the objective of highlighting its network of destinations for meetings across the region. It aims to continue identifying new destinations and potential whilst also strengthening the convention and incentive trip product, presenting the whole range of possibilities offered by the Catalan territory. 32

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Conventions, Incentives and Events Catalonia boasts over a thousand different venues suitable for meetings, including convention centres, unique spaces and hotels. As part of its new strategy, the CCB launched its new catalogue ‘Catalonia Conventions, Incentives and Events’ at the end of November 2013 during the latest edition of the EIBTM. The catalogue details all the venues available for this type of event, as well as over 150 activities for incentives, classified in different sections: Discover, Create, Try, Take a Risk, Live and Experiment. During the first six months of the year, the agency was busy creating a map which will help visitors locate all the venues and establishments which offer concrete services in this regard so that organisers can schedule a corporate and incentive event and also design the social and complementary activities to go with the meeting.

Conferences and Events At the same time the CCB has edited a publication which identifies destinations which offer the best conditions for the organisation of conferences, fairs or meetings and which initially includes the following nine destinations: Lleida, Reus, PortAventura, Tarragona, Sitges, Castelldefels, Barcelona, Lloret de Mar and Girona. These nine destinations together can accommodate a total of 11.000 delegates and offer over 60.000 rooms as accommodation. This is the first result of the ‘Catalonia Conferences and Events’ programme (launched previously within the new strategy), the main aim of which is to identify the Catalan destinations which are able to accommodate conferences and meetings offering first class ‘modern and accessible’ facilities, great connections and organizational experience within this sector, thereby creating a network of MICE destinations in the region. The publication includes a file for each destination within the network which specifies the facilities on offer, including capacity and services. It also features files on other alternative MICE destinations within Catalonia, such as Badalona, Barberà del Vallès, Cornellà de Llobregat, Esplugues de Llobregat, Granollers, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Mataró, Sabadell, Terrassa, Vic and Viladecans, in the province of Barcelona; and Roses and Platja d’Aro, in the province of Girona; as well as their meeting venues, with a comprehensive offering for event organisation. Priority Segment According to Catalonia’s Tourism Marketing Plan for 2013-2015, this segment is of utmost importance and has established itself as one of the main categories of products to be promoted. The CCB’s market strategy for the next 5 years focuses on mature markets such as the United Kingdom, Germany and France, as well as Russia as an emerging market for this product. Other markets which will also be given preference are Nordic countries, the United States and South-East Asia. Diana Ramón Vilarasau

Hotel Peralada Wine Spa & Golf Telf. (+34) 972 53 88 30 Fax. (+34) 972 53 88 07 www.hotelperalada.com www.golfperalada.com www.wine-spa.com

Hotel Peralada, set in its unique and tranquil surroundings, offers you a host of activities and settings in which to enjoy your free time, making it second to none. We boast two exclusive executive suites as well as 53 comfortable rooms with magnificent views of the golf course, the Albera area and the medieval village of Peralada with the Pyrenees mountains as its backdrop. Not only do we have an exterior pool surrounded by terraces and gardens, but also various gastronomic rooms, a spectacular library, a health and beauty Wine Spa and sporting facilities such as an 18-hole golf course, pitch and putt, grass football pitch, paddle court and a fully-equipped gym. Meetings and events The hotel is particularly well set up for business meetings, reunions and conventions with its versatile board-rooms and capacity for up to 350 people and outside areas ideal for celebrating any event. We have spacious rooms with natural light and excellent views equipped with the latest technology to guarantee maximum comfort during work sessions. Further to providing a complete service to businesses with their chosen menus, coffee breaks and cocktails, we also offer special boarding and convention packs which can include additional activities such as coaching and networking. Our establishment encompasses everything necessary for organising group activities such as tournaments or golf lessons, treatments in the Wine Spa, tasting menu and wine pairing, cultural visits, tourist routes, cycling trips and adventure sports such as balloon flights and quad excursions. Hotel Peralada has a fantastic grass

football field a short distance from the resort which is an excellent place for clubs who need to prepare for the season or an important upcoming match.

The Wine Bar, decorated in the style of the last century, is the perfect spot to unwind and savour the best wines and the most exotic cocktails.

Gastronomy In terms of gastronomy, Hotel Peralada offers wide and varied choices with many options for groups such as work-breakfasts and brunches and up to eight menu possibilities for work-lunches as well as a la carte options in a quiet, cosy setting. We also boast six varying celebration menus and an option for themed menus, should it be requested. The main restaurant, Masia Peralada, with its views of the golf course, offers Empordà and Mediterranean cuisine that make the most of the freshest, seasonal products available in the market for its novel and exquisite dishes.

Wine Spa The Wine Spa is the first vino-therapy spa of its kind in Spain and only the second in Europe. Here you will discover a new way to promote health, beauty and wellbeing using the benefits from grape and vine extracts to provide effective, innovative skincare treatments, with anti-ageing action. The treatments range from Merlot and Muscat Wine Baths to Alma Gran Reserva wraps and Moscatel Grape treatments as well as peelings and massages using grape-seed oil.

HALLS

m 2

MEASURES HEIGHT

THEATRE

SCHOOL

BANQUET

U SHAPE

IMPERIAL

COCKTAIL

Alt Empordà Canigó L’Albera Requesens Ramon Muntaner Sala Dalí Sala Golf Sala de Catas Terraza Salones

360 92 106 169 35 306 382 70 300

28x13 8x11 8x13 12x13 5x7 14x22 - 10x7 28x13

350 70 100 150 30 100 200 50 -

230 40 70 100 20 70 120 35 -

60 30 30 30 20 30 30 - -

50 20 20 30 10 30 30 - -

275 60 80 120 16 150 350 - -

370 80 110 180 20 210 400 350

3,15 3,15 3,15 3,15 3,00 3,00 3,15 3,0 -

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MAD

According to the barometer established by the ICCA, the International Congress & Convention Association

Madrid is Spain’s leading MICE tourism destination and ranked number four in the world department’s Statistics Report compiled by external consultancy firm Madison. In order to consolidate its position as a meeting tourism destination, the town hall has intensified its promotional work via the Tourism Board Visitors & Convention Bureau which has increased its budget for campaigns aimed at this segment by 65%.

Madrid broke its record for international meetings in 2012 with 164 conferences, 26% more than the year before Conference, convention and incentive tourism generates 1 billion Euros a year for Madrid.

Madrid has risen two positions in the latest conference destinations ranking conducted by the ICCA (the International Congress & Convention Association) and is for the first time one of the top five; currently in fourth place behind Vienna, Paris and Berlin. The capital city has thereby established itself as Spain’s leading MICE tourism city, having overtaken Barcelona.

adrid broke its own record in 2012 with 164 international conferences, a number which represents a 26% growth in the amount of meetings validated by the ICCA when compared to the previous year. The capital city has risen 18 positions since 2008, in the worldwide ranking of cities which organise large professional events, scaling the ranks from number 22 up to number 4, registering an increase of 152%, during times of extreme financial difficulty. Madrid’s Town Hall considers these figures to be ‘extraordinary’ and believes that they ‘prove the city’s organizational capacity and expertise’ as well as the results of the ‘excellent teamwork’ carried out within Madrid’s tourism sector. In 2012, the Tourism Board Madrid Visitors 34

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& Convention Bureau, secured 40 conferences and presented 77 applications to hold large scale events during the next few years, via its Meeting Tourism department and with help from its 200 members. An excellent year Madrid’s Tourism Board believes that 2012 was an excellent year for meeting tourism in the city, a sector which generates an annual income of 1 billion Euros. That year, the last we have complete statistics for, 17.538 meetings were held in the city, 56% more that the year before; as well as 6.550 conventions, an increase of 140% and 1.910 national and international conferences, 58% more than previously. These are the figures detailed in Madrid’s Meeting Tourism

In fact, the fusion of Madrid Visitors & Convention Bureau and Madrid Arte y Cultura S.A., which came into effect on the 31st of December in order to create the Madrid Destino Cultura, Turismo y Negocio company aims to achieve a more effective, independent and direct management of resources. The aim is to ‘promote the city’s role as a first class cultural tourism centre worldwide by presenting the value of its attributes’. Eurovegas Its leading position will be enhanced by Eurovegas which, to use the words of the Minister for Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, ‘will become the epicentre to attract mega conferences of up to 7000 or 8000 people to be held in Europe, because there is currently a lack of venues where these can take place.’ The minister also defended the need to create facilities for gaming, because conferences of this magnitude ‘do not take place’ without casinos. The minister for Employment, Tourism and Culture for the Community of Madrid, Ana Isabel Mariño, goes further by stating that the opening of Sheldon Adelson’s complex will allow Madrid to go from fourth position in the ICCA’s ranking to first, and so become the world’s premier destination for conference tourism. Vivi Hinojosa

Business and Shopping Tourism, united by Ifema Plus

he exclusive programme Ifema Plus organised by the trade fair organisation of the same name in collaboration with Madrid Shopping Tour and sponsored by the Community of Madrid and Innova Tax Free, is aimed specifically at international visitors and visitors from other provinces, providing alternatives for their stay in the city whilst also promoting it as a shopping destination. Ifema thereby joins the other activities already being carried out by the Community as well as by the town hall, and the Chamber of Commerce, to promote trade in Madrid amongst a quality tourist profile with high spending power such as the tourist who attends fairs and conferences held at their venues. In fact, this initiative is part of the public administration’s global strategy to consolidate and increase the city’s position as a shopping destination both nationally and internationally. Another one of its objectives is to promote the Moda Madrid (Madrid fashion)1 brand, for the pur190x135 ing.pdf 18/12/13 13:42

pose of which its recommended routes stop near the establishments and boutiques of some of the country’s most representative of designers, in order to promote quality products from Madrid and Spain as a whole. The route designed to provide a service to exhibitors and visitors also includes luxury fashion and accessory brands, beauty and cosmetics, jewellery and décor. It centres around the areas of Serrano-Museo del Prado, with access to the Barrio de las Letras and Castellana, both well known for their exclusive shops, a high-end market which moves around 5 billion Euros in Spain, representing up to 30% of the tourism sector. Also included are the outlet areas of Las Rozas, so that all different shopping requirements are covered. The areas of Salamanca and Azca y Bernabeu are two of the most popular amongst tourists and generate high levels of income; in 2012 they generated an income of 39 and 2.5 million Euros respectively, from shopping carried out by international visitors.

Evolution This product is launched in the hope that it will evolve strategically according to the needs and preferences of the different types of people who attend the Ifema fairs. In this way it will adapt to different sectors, and not only promote shopping in areas currently growing in popularity such as Triball, Fuencarral or Barrio de las Letras, characterised by their uniqueness, design and independent retail; but also possibly bring tourists closer to trends created by new business models developing within Madrid. These initiatives are striving to strengthen the promotion of the capital as a destination for both business and shopping tourism, and to promote the Madrid brand. An important task as, according to surveys carried out by the Community, 98% of the tourists who repeat their stay in the region do so with shopping in mind, and value its shopping amongst its best services, giving it an average score of 8.8 points. Vivi Hinojosa

WELCOME TO SPACE IFEMA CONVENTION AND CONGRESS CENTRE

CMY

At IFEMA´s Convention and Congress Centre you can rent spaces for international events, conventions, congresses and meetings. Myriad spaces with infinite possibilities. www.convencionesycongresos.ifema.es

MICE 2014

EUROBUILDING

MADRID

Located in the heart of Madrid. 440 bright and spacious rooms. Avant-garde cuisine with wide range of culinary options. Spa & Fitness Elysium.

ROOMS 1 Presidential > 3 Junior Suites > 26 Premium* >145 Deluxe > 30 Superior* > 216 Standard >19 Executive rooms *Adapted rooms available.

Sales department NH EUROBUILDING sales.nheurobuilding@nh-hotels.com

CUISINE At NH Hoteles we offer you the best cuisine for your event. Starting with our NH Antiox breakfasts that combine health and enjoyment. And continuing with 9 exclusive menus, each with 3 different categories, adapted to your needs.

FREE WI-FI IN ALL ROOMS

DISTANCES Airport: 12 km Train station: 2 km City centre: 5 km

32 MEETING ROOMS WITH CAPACITY FOR UP TO 1,600 PEOPLE PER EVENT MEETING ROOM GRAN MADRID + BENELUX

MEASUREMENTS (m) HEIGHT (m)

THEATRE

IMPERIAL

COCKTAIL

SCHOOL

BANQUET

U TABLE

CABARET

STANDS

66 x 16 - 9.4

2.9

1,074

1,300

210

1,600

750

804

210

342

51 x 16

2.9

813

1,150

170

1,300

600

636

150

270

35.1 x 16

2.9

566

700

100

900

400

420

100

192

MADRID 1

13 x 16

2.9

202

150

100

120

MADRID 2

7.4 x 16

2.9

119

120

MADRID 3

14.8 x 16

2.9 - 2.4

238

220

175

140

216

MADRID 4

15 x 16

2.9

245

220

175

140

216

ROMA I

15 x 8.5

2.9

131

130

ROMA II

20.3 x 8.5

2.9

154

170

200

100

120

ROMA (1+2)

35.3 x 8.5

2.9

286

300

350

180

264

108

VIENA

GRAN MADRID (MADRID 1+2+3+4) MADRID

8.4 x 6.9

2.9

BRUSELAS

8.4 x 7

2.9

PARÍS

8.4 x 7

2.9

LONDRES

8.4 x 6.8

2.9

BERLÍN

8.5 x 6.3

2.9

LISBOA

16.3 x 7

115

140

108

BUCAREST

7.3 x 5.4

OSLO

9.2 x 7

2.9

MOSCÚ

9.7 x 7

2.9

ESTOCOLMO

9.7 x 7.1

2.9

HELSINKI

9.6 x 7.1

2.9

COPENHAGUE

9.7 x 7

2.9

LUXEMBURGO

9.5 x 7

2.9

GLASGOW

9.7 x 7

2.9

MÓNACO

9.2 x 7.4

2.9

MALTA

9.1 x 7.3

2.9

EDIMBURGO I

12.34 x 7.6

2.6

EDIMBURGO II

12.34 x 7.6

2.6

EDIMBURGO III

12.34 x 7.6

2.6

EDIMBURGO (1+2+3)

21.3 x 14.2

2.6

275

180 + 120

300

100 + 50

240

102

BENELUX (AMSTERDAM+AMBERES)

29.2 x 8.8

2.9

261

200

300

150

168

AMSTERDAM

18.4 x 9.4

2.9

158

150

220

100

120

AMBERES

11.5 x 8.8

2.9

FLORENCIA

30 x 19

5.3 - 2.4

447

160

450

432

ZURICH

6.9 x 5.9

2.4

BUDAPEST

8.7 x 6.9

2.4

DUBLÍN

8.1 x 6.9

2.4

ATENAS

13.3 x 6.7

2.4

100

We are carrying out renovation works in NH Eurobuilding up until September 2014 to improve our capacity and service. Sorry for any inconvenience, we are working for you.

Padre Damián, 23. 28036 Madrid (Spain) Tel.: +34 91 353 73 00 Bookings: +34 91 398 46 61

COM

Business tourism attracts over 265.000 visitors a year

The Valencian Community improves its position as a conference destination In its mission to attract conference and business tourism, the Valencian Community emphasises the excellence of its infrastructure and accommodation as well as the variety of its leisure and gastronomy services.

he Valencian Community has experienced a growth in demand in the conference, convention and incentive tourism sector over the last few years, especially in the city of Valencia, which has improved its position due to its infrastructure, public and private investment and the intense promotional work carried out over the last few years . For the Generalitat Valenciana MICE has become a strategic element thanks to the effect it has on seasonality, its high level of income and because conference tourists are very loyal and often cross over to other segments such as leisure and gastronomy. According to the latest available data, 1,180 meetings were held in 2012 in the region, with 265,682 participants. 740 were held in Valencia; 350 in Alicante and 90 in Castellon, according to figures provided by the Ministry for Economy, Industry, Tourism and Employment. 63 % of the meetings took place in the city of Valencia, which has registered a 1.1 % increase in the number of meetings held and a 1.5 % increase in the number of attendees. Extensive and Excellent Offering According to the Registry of Tourism Businesses and Establishments at the Valencian Tourism Agency there are currently 51,787 four star beds and 4,393 five star beds available in the Valencian Community. In addition to this high end accommodation the region is home to chefs with a total of 18 Michelin stars, the highest number of stars it has ever boasted. The excellent work put in by Valencian chefs such as Quique Dacosta, Kiko Moya or Ricard Camarena confirms and reflects the excellent health of the Community’s cuisine. Varied leisure options The Valencian Community offers a perfect place in which to combine company, incentive and business trips with fun. Groups and companies can find adequate infrastructure for the celebration of incentive programmes and corporate events across the Community. As for activities known as “outdoor training”, these benefit from extraordinary locations within this region; incorporating games and outdoor activities based on a dynamic way of learning. To give just one example, there are 34 golf courses in the three provinces, 21 in Alicante, and these are very attractive options when combined with business meetings. The Valencian Community is the fourth Spanish region with the most extensive golf offering occupying the same position as Madrid. The region has sharpened its ingenuity to attract a type of tourism which is looking for unique experiences, which is well informed, which presents a high spending power and wants to return to premier destinations between three and four times a year. The region attended the recent International

MICE 2014

The Congress Palace in Castellon.

Number of Conferences and Delegates in 2012 2012 Meetings Delegates

Alicante

Castellon

Valencia

350 48.758

90 35.380

740 181.544

Total 1.180 265.682

Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) fair held in Cannes in order to present its services and the Valencian Tourism Agency attended to 45 appointments in order to present the community’s potential to international travel agents. At the same time, the Valencian Community’s tourism offering has been promoted online in Condé Nast UK’s ‘Relax on the coast’ campaign. In addition the Ministry of Economy, Industry, Tourism and Employment has created a tourist guide entitled ‘First Class Hotels’ which is now available to tourists and which includes a list of all the high end hotels plus all the golf courses, marinas and yacht clubs; the guide is available online at www.comunitatvalenciana.com. Valencia, third in Spain Conference tourism has grown 308% in Valencia since 1997. It has welcomed 130,000 participants and half a million overnight stays. Since the opening of the new Valencia Congress Palace fourteen years ago, and with the incorporation of new venues, meetings have grown by 70%. 740 events were held in Valencia in 2012, and these were attended by 181,544 people, which means that 63 % of all the meetings held in the community took place in the capital city, and that the number of meetings increased by 1.1 % in relation to the year before and the number of participants by 1.5 %. Feria Valencia, the Valencia Fair and Events Centre is one of the main venues for conference tourism in the city. 30 professional and leisure events took place here during 2013 with the participation of over 100,000 people. The statistics collated by the ICCA (the International Association for Conferences and Conventions) for 2012 place Valencia as the third city in Spain when it comes to the organisation of international conferences. It occupied 43rd place globally together with Geneva and Vancouver (compared to 53rd in 2011). On a European level, it occupies 23rd place, tied with Geneva. In addition, the city of Turia has been recognised as one of the top ten European destinations when it comes to the amount of positive feedback

and interest generated during 2012 amongst travellers from all over the world - as reported by the first edition of TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Destinations on the Rise awards. Apart from the attractions it boasts for holidaymakers, Valencia is a city with over 15,200 hotel beds, as well as a varied complementary tourism offering with multiple possibilities, thousands of unique spaces, ever increasing flight connections and international renown. More interesting destinations Conferences have an important role to play in the city of Valencia, but Alicante, Elche, Benidorm, Castellon and Peñíscola are also significant MICE destinations for small conferences and meetings. They also have their own entities which are responsible for the sector and which are aimed at securing events for their various congress palaces. Alicante continues to work hard in order to capture more conferences, meetings and events. The events to be held here during 2014 include the National Epidemiology event and the National Conference for Surgical Nursing which has already inspected the city twice. There are already 5 medical conferences confirmed for 2015. The province of Alicante completes its conference offering with Benidorm, which is a meeting point for thousands of professionals thanks to its extensive hotel capacity. For its part, the province of Castellon boasts first class infrastructure for the organisation of all types of conferences, meetings and incentives, both within the Castellon and Peñíscola Congress Palace which boast cutting edge design and functionality, as at hotels and special venues.

Hyper-connected delegates

f all the conference tourists which come to the Valencian Community, almost half come from the interior areas of the country, and most come from the Community of Madrid, a segment which accounts for over 20% of the total. Other important issuing markets are Andalusia (13.9 %) and Catalonia (9.3 %) as well as the domestic market within the community itself which has grown in importance over recent years so that it now accounts for around 10% of the total. Of its international clientèle, France accounts for the highest number of delegates who come to the community to hold conferences - nearly one fifth of the total foreign participants - over and above additional markets such as Germany or Britain which represent 8 % and 5 % respectively. As for the type of meetings, these are usually to do with the medical and health sector, the world of economy or finance and events related to communication and technology; as well as conventions, forums and meetings organised by universities. These are followed by company meetings, and then by scientific and cultural events. Conference tourism creates higher spending, accounting for 11 % of the average tourism expenses and a daily average per business traveller of 332 Euros. Their average stay is also higher, over 4 or 5 days. The ‘typical’ conference tourist is middle aged, has a liberal profession and a mid to high spending power. One of the most important changes in the behaviour of this type of tourist is the influence of technology which is now present in every single phase of their trip. In this sense, and unlike ten years ago, a conference tourist is now much more sociable, demanding, geo-localised and hyper connected.

Valencia, third Spanish city for international conferences

onference tourism in the city of Valencia has grown by 308 % since 1997. It has welcomed 130,000 participants and half a million overnight stays. Since the opening of the new Valencia Congress Palace fourteen years ago, and with the incorporation of new venues, meetings have grown by 70%. Other data reveals that 740 events were held in Valencia in 2012, and these were attended by 181,544 people, which means that 63 % of all the meetings held in the community took place in the capital city, and that the number of meetings increased by 1.1 % in relation to the year before and the number of participants by 1.5 %. This positive trend is reflected by tangible statistics collated by the ICCA (the International Association for Conferences and Conventions) for 2012 which place Valencia as the third city in Spain when it comes to the organisation of international conferences. It occupied 43rd place globally together with Geneva and Vancouver (compared to 53rd in 2011). On a European level, it occupies 23rd place, the same as Geneva.

Apart from the attractions it boasts for holidaymakers, Valencia is a city with over 15,200 hotel beds, as well as a varied complementary tourism offering with multiple possibilities, thousand of unique spaces, ever increasing flight connections and, without a doubt, a name, Valencia, which is recognised the world over. In addition, the city of Turia has been recog-

The Congress Palace in Valencia.

nised as one of the top ten European destinations when it comes to the amount of positive feedback and interest generated during 2012 amongst travellers from all over the world - as reported by the first edition of TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Destinations on the Rise awards. Feria Valencia Feria Valencia, the Valencia Fair and Events Centre is one of the main venues for conference tourism in the city. 30 professional and leisure events took place here during 2013 with the participation of over 100,000 people. One of the most important parts of its activity has been that of professional conferences. Amongst those held this year the following stand out for their importance and social and professional significance; the Conference on Cardiovascular Diseases organised by the Spanish Cardiology Society - SEC - and the National Dermatology and Venereology Conference - AEDV. As for events directed at the general public, it is worth mentioning that the Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Alegria’ show was performed here. MICE 2014

· INTERESTING FACTS · CONVENTION BUREAUX

TURISMO VALENCIA CONVENTION BUREAU Avda. Cortes Valencianas, 41 - 46015 Valencia Tel. 963390390 Fax. 963606430 asociados@turisvalencia.es www.turisvalencia.es

PALACIO DE CONGRESOS DE PEÑÍSCOLA Maestro Bayarri, Esquina Blasco Ibañez s/n 12598 Peñíscola (Castellón) Tel. 964231440 Fax: 964231441 congresos@intur.com www.peniscola.es

COSTA BLANCA CONVENTION BUREAU Avda. Federico de Soto, 4, entreplanta - 03001 Alicante Tel. 965230160 Fax. 965230155 turismo@costablanca.org www.costablancaconvention.com

AUDITORI I PALAU DE CONGRESSOS DE CASTELLÓ Avd. Lidón, 50 - 12003 Castellón Tel. 964231440 Fax.964231441 congresos@intur.com www.palaudecongressos.com

ALICANTE CONVENTION BUREAU Explanada de España, 1, Bajo. Ed. Carbonell 03002 Alicante Tel. 965147052 Fax. 965215694 congresos@alicanteturismo.com www.alicantecongresos.com

FERIA VALENCIA Avd. de las Ferias, s/n - 46035 Valencia Tel. 902747330 Fax: 902747345 feriavalencia@feriavalencia.com www.feriavalencia.com

BENIDORM CONVENTION BUREAU Pza. SS MM Reyes de España, 1 03501 Benidorm, Alicante Tel. 966815463 Fax. 965863625 turismo@benidorm.org www.benidorm.org ELCHE CIUDAD DE CONGRESOS CONVENTION BUREAU INSTITUT MUNICIPAL DE TURISME D´ELX Filet de fora, 1 - 03203 Elche Tel. 96658140 Fax. 966658141 direccion@visitelche.com www.visitelche.com CONVENTION BUREAU INTERIOR DE CASTELLÓN Avda. Doctor Clará, 36, Entlo. B - 12002 - Castellón Tel: 964218055 Fax: 964218233 www.convencionesinteriorcastellon.com info@cbicastellon.com

CONGRESS PALACES

SEDE DE LA ASOC. DE PALACIOS DE CONGRESOS DE ESPAÑA - PALACIO DE CONGRESOS DE VALENCIA Avda. Cortes Valencianas, 60 - 46015 Valencia Tel. 963179400 Fax. 963179401 palcon@palcongres-vlc.com www.palcongres-vlc.com PALAU DE LA MÚSICA I CONGRESOS DE VALENCIA Paseo de la Alameda, 30- 46023 Valencia Tel. 963375020 Fax. 963370988 info@palauvalencia.com www.palaudevalencia.com

INSTITUCIÓN FERIAL ALICANTINA (IFA) N-340, km 731 - 03320 Elche (Alicante) Tel. 966657600 Fax: 966657630 ifa@feria-alicante.com www.feria-alicante.com CIUDAD DE LAS ARTES Y LAS CIENCIAS Avd. Autopista de Saler, 7 - 46013 Valencia Tel. 902100031 Fax: 961 974470 ptamarit@cac.es www.cac.es

PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE ORGANISERS

ASOCIACIÓN DE EMPRESAS OPC DE LA COMUNITAT VALENCIANA Maestro Gonzalbo, 20, 10º - 46005 Valencia Tel: 963332818 Fax: 963332776 www.opccv.com Info@opccv.es

ADMINISTRATION

CONSELLERÍA DE TURISMO. GENERALITAT VALENCIANA Avd. Aragón, 30 Plantas 8ª y 9ª del Edificio Europa 46021 Valencia Tel. 963986000 Fax: 963986001 www.comunidad-valenciana.org PATRONATO PROVINCIAL DE TURISMO DE ALICANTE COSTA BLANCA Tucumán 10, 1º - 03005 Alicante Tel. 965230160 Fax: 965230155 turismo@costablanca.org www.costablanca.org

PALACIO DE CONGRESOS DE ALICANTE Avda. Denia, 47 – A - 03013 Alicante Tel. 965269962 Fax. 965263797 info@palaciocongresosalicante.com www.palaciocongresosalicante.com

TURISME DE BENIDORM AYUNTAMIENTO DE BENIDORM Plaza SSM Reyes de España - 03501 Benidorm (Alicante) Tel.: 902100581 Fax: 965863625 www.visitbenidorm.es info@benidorm.org

PALAU ALTEA Alcoy 18 - 03590 Altea (Alicante) Tel. 966881924 palau@palaualtea.com www.palaualtea.com

PATRONATO MUNICIPAL DE TURISMO ALICANTE Explanada de España, 1 - 03002 Alicante Tel. 965143452 Fax: 965215694 turismo@alicanteturismo.com www.alicanteturismo.com

CENTRO DE CONGRESOS CIUTAT D’ELX Filet de fora, 1 03203 Elche (Alicante) Tel. 966658077 Fax: 966658141 congresos@visitelche.com www.visitelche.com

TURISVALENCIA AYUNTAMIENTO DE VALENCIA Avda. de las Cortes Valencianas, 41 - 46015 Valencia Tel. 963606353 Fax. 963606430 www.turisvalencia.es turisvalencia@turisvalencia.es

MICE 2014

PATRONATO PROVINCIAL DE TURISMO DE CASTELLÓN DIPUTACIÓN PROVINCIAL COSTA AZAHAR Av. Espronceda, 24 A entresuelo 12004 Castellón Tel. 964359883 Fax: 964359870 www.turismodecastellon.com turismodecastellon@dipcas.es

ASSOCIATIONS

ASOCIACIÓN PROVINCIAL DE EMPRESARIOS DE HOSTELERÍA Y TURISMO DE CASTELLÓN (ASHOTUR) Avd. Dr. Clará, 36, entresuelo B 12002 Castellón Tel. 964218055 Fax: 964218233 comercial@ashotur.org www.ashotur.org ASOCIACIÓN EMPRESARIAL DE HOSTELERÍA DE BENIDORM Y COSTA BLANCA (HOSBEC) Via Emilio Ortuño, 5, 1º Pta. 5 03501 Benidorm, Alicante Tel. 965855516 Fax: 966851304 hosbec@hosbec.com www.hosbec.com ASOCIACIÓN EMPRESARIAL HOTELERA PROVINCIAL DE VALENCIA Arzobispo Mayoral, 16, 1º-1ª 46002 Valencia Tel. 963 510909 Fax: 963 510909 escuval@teleline.es FEDERACIÓN EMPRESARIAL DE HOSTELERÍA DE VALENCIA Y PROVINCIA Ontiyent, 3 y 5 bajos 46008 Valencia Tel. 963519284 Fax: 963517149 www.fehv.es info@fehv.es ASOCIACIÓN VALENCIANA DE AGROTURISMO Y TURISMO RURAL (AGROTUR) Caballeros, 26 46001 Valencia Tel. 902115356 Fax: 963924479 www.agrotur.org info@agrotur.org ASOCIACIÓN DE AGENCIAS DE VIAJES DE ALICANTE Pintor Lorenzo Casanova, 56 03003 Alicante Tel. 965926747 Fax: 965926542 viajes.alicante@alc.es ASOCIACIÓN DE AGENCIAS DE BENIDORM (AVIBE) Emilio Ortuño, 15. Ed. Benidorm Center, local 2, desp. 6 03501 Benidorm (Alicante) Tel. 965855204 Fax: 965855204 www.avibe.org avibe@avibe.org ASOCIACIÓN DE AGENCIAS DE VIAJES DE VALENCIA (AEVAV) Hospital, 30 46001 Valencia Tel. 963 917051 Fax: 963 916981 www.aevav.es aevav@aevav.es

Hotel Diamante Beach Av Juan Carlos I, 48, 03710 Calpe, Alicante Teléfono: +34 96 583 26 18 mice@ar-hotels.com

Prize for best European Hotel for Events and Conferences AR Diamante Beach Spa & Convention Centre has recently been awarded the prestigious Condé Nast Johansens award for best Hotel for Events and Conferences 2014. Located a short distance from Calpe’s Levante Beach, the hotel offers everything necessary to ensure a successful convention or event with attention to detail and personalized service. The hotel opened its doors in 2006 and has several modular meeting spaces for holding any kind of event or conference. Another great advantage is that all the rooms offer lots of natural light. The crown jewel is the Leonardo da Vinci Grand Ballroom, with capacity for up to one thousand people, 800 m2 and 7.5 metres in height, completely diaphanous, with a 5 x 5 metre screen and wooden floor. The Grand Ballroom can even be used as a car showroom. In total there are over 2,000 metres of conference spaces divided into 11 modular rooms, to suit any kind of event. This allows a great deal of flexibility, enabling us to adapt to our client’s needs and ensuring that the AR Diamante Beach is one of the main references for conferences held on the Costa Blanca.

Work, rest and play can be easily combined with the help of a spectacular 2,000 m2 Spa Centre, one of the most complete of its kind in the Valencia region, with specialized

HALLS

HEIGHT

THEATRE

SCHOOL

COCKTAIL

BANQUET

IMPERIAL

Gran Salón Leonardo Da Vinci Salón Leonardo Salón Da Vinci Salón Curie Salón Newton Salón Copérnico Salón Pitágoras Salón Ramón y Cajal Salón Fleming Salón Hall Salón Executive

800 350 450 739 474 399 340 134 265 28 19

7,5 7,5 7,5 2,7 2,7 2,7 2,7 2,7 2,7 2,7 2,7

900 375 500 850 500 350 350 150 250 15 -

550 225 350 475 350 225 200 80 150 10 -

950 400 500 800 500 450 350 150 300 - -

600 250 300 500 300 156 230 100 160 - -

- - - - - - 52 38 28 10 10

56 44 32 10 -

massage cabins and a Flotarium. The hotel not only stands out for its infrastructure and facilities but also for the excellent Mediterranean climate in which it is located, allowing for lots of outdoor activities: 3 nautical clubs, various golf courses, diving areas and the famous Rock of Ifach. This makes the AR Diamante Beach Spa & Convention Centre the ideal headquarters for your incentives and team building experiences. In total, there are 2,000 m2 of modular conference rooms, equipped with state of the art technology, which cater to business, conventions and events tourism, with diverse leisure and relaxation options. The facilities and services on offer are hard to match, alongside an unbeatable location and climate. Add to this the efficiency, expertise and friendliness of our work teams. Our slogan “We are different, we put our heart into what we do” is a reflection on our values, implication and pride in what we do, on being part of a united team, whose goals are the wellbeing and satisfaction of our clients. MICE 2014

Event days bring 14,000 visitors to Mallorca every year

The island is the venue chosen for over 1,100 meetings, and its main markets are Spain and Germany

Within meeting tourism, event days are by far the simplest kind of meeting and the ones with less participants. They feature few, if any, overnight stays. However, if you add all these small events up you get a significant impact, and in Mallorca this happens to be the segment which works best.

n the ranking of meetings held in Mallorca, event days continue to prevail; they accounted for a total 13,924 participants in 2012. The second most important type of event is conferences, at 8,531 for the same period. For their part, incentives attracted 8,235 professionals, although they were the top type of event during May and October, the months during which the island registers more activity in this tourism sector. The impressive numbers collated by the Mallorca Convention Bureau (MCB) produced a final figure for the number of meeting tourists during the last tax year of 62,346 - data for 2013 is not collected until January and not divulged until February 2014. In summary, the entity feels that 2012 was ‘’especially relevant’’, and that ‘’its effect can still be felt in 2013’’. There were a total 1,104 meetings held of all different modalities. Of that number, 435 were public and private initiatives which originated in Spain and 323 were German run. The above two countries are of course the two main issuing markets for the island. They are followed by the United Kingdom which registered 97 meetings in Mallorca, and the Scandinavian countries with a further 62. The remaining 187 events held were organised by a wide range of different nationalities, according to the data collected by the MCB.

International Fam Trips Two familiarisation trips will be held during this year bringing international tourist agents to Mallorca. Each trip will be made up of 20 participants, and will introduce Mallorca’s various selling points as a MICE destination. Apart from visits to different hotels and incentive activities, the programme will include a workshop work day attended by the MCB members who are all service providers for this segment. It is worth pointing out that the first of these trips will take place in April and will bring together a group of buyers from issuing markets such as Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Holland, Luxembourg, Norway, Russia, Sweden and Switzerland. The second has been scheduled for October, and will be for MICE agencies from Germany, Slovakia, Ireland, Poland, the United Kingdom and the Czech Republic.

MICE 2014

Workshops and fam trips are two of the formulas the MCB is using to attract new clientèle.

As for the type of meeting held, the same sources indicate that they were very ‘’mixed’’, with subjects as varied as sports, specifically regattas, incentives, meetings about workshops, as well as others centred on conferences, congresses and conventions. And to stimulate the development of this activity on the island, the MCB approved an Action Plan for 2014 for which it has a budget of 24,550 Euros. Fairs and Forums The plan, presented at the beginning of December - coinciding with the elections for a new Directors Board for the entity - is committed to promoting attendance to specialised fairs. In relation to this, the Mallorca Convention Bureau will promote the island as a meeting tourism destination at IMEX (Frankfurt), The Meeting Show (London) and EIBTM (Barcelona). 11,500 Euros of the total budget will be taken up with this task. At the same time, attendance to international forums and workshops will also be reinforced. The budget for this line of action will be 9,450 Euros, which will allow the MCB to take part in The Meeting Space (Madrid) and the BEST of MICE, an event which will turn the city of Venice into the capital for conference and incentive tourism at the end of April. Finally, the rest of the budget will be used for the direct event days held in London and Glasgow and to organise two fam trips.

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Hipocampo Palace***** Hipocampo Playa **** Eurotel Punta Rotja**** Cala Millor Park ****

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Barrosa Palace***** Gran Conil**** Barrosa Park**** Sherry Park**** Natura Palace****

info@hipotels.com

www.hipotels.com

The FEHM, Mallorca’s Hotel Business Federation, emphasises the importance of infrastructure

Hotel owners think that the Congress Palace will give Palma a ‘’huge competitive edge’’ The Palma Auditorium will host large scale events during the first three months of the year on meetings held at hotels meant that we were not able to collect exact data on the same, a gap which the FEHM is striving to fill. In regards to Mallorca’s general conditions as a meeting destination, de Benito indicates that one of its strengths is its accommodation, as Mallorca has ‘’more than enough infrastructure’’, whereas she said that one of its weaknesses is ‘’connectivity during the low and mid season’’ -alluding to the fact that the number of flights operated at Palma’s Son Sant Joan airport falls significantly once the high season is over. And this is a trend which has become even more prevalent over the past years.

The Gran Melia Victoria convention centre in Palma

The island of Mallorca, an international example when it comes to tourism, has one unresolved matter when it comes to the meeting sector: it does not yet have its own congress palace. In the absence of this important resource, hotels are carrying the main weight when it comes to the celebration of large events.

n addition to the convention centres and multiple halls offered by hotel chains and independent establishments, Palma has an Auditorium which can easily host large scale events and it was here that important events took place during the last three months of the year. According to the FEHM, the Mallorcan Federation for Hotel Business, the Auditorium hopes to maintain the same influx of activity during the first three months of 2014. The association’s member establishments have an ongoing mutually beneficial relationship with the Auditorium which fills the gap created by the lack of a large space for mass events. At least until the Congress Palace becomes a reality in Palma, for which building work is expected to recommence sometime this year. ‘’We still need the Congress Palace - together with existing private infrastructure, it will give us a huge competitive advantage in the market,’’ said the director of the FEHM, Inmaculada de Benito.

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In a swift review of meeting activity in Mallorca during 2014, the association’s spokesperson said that ‘’important medical conferences have taken place,’’ as well as ‘’vehicle launches with have had a great impact on the local economy.’’ All this is despite the fact that ‘’the conference market is currently at a low point,’’ they continued. The lack of information

Exotic destination As for the perception prospective meeting tourists have of Mallorca as a destination, the director claims that the island continues to be ‘’an exotic destination’’ for this type of tourist. Nevertheless, beyond the image the island offers international visitors, there are other, very sound, reasons why Mallorca should become a firm candidate to host all types of meetings. ‘’The climate is a very important factor, as well as the hospitality and tourism ‘know-how’ we have,’’ alluding to the sector’s wealth of experience. The Mallorcan Hotel Federation stresses that the region is ‘’currently taking part in the main international fairs for this product’’ in order to promote meeting tourism on the island. The federation is also working with specialised media and with travel agents who are experts in this sector. De Benito indicated the need to reinforce their work, but reiterated that a lot is already being done.

Palma, a budding competitor

he city of Palma is experiencing significant development within the urban tourism sector. This will of course affect the meeting tourism sector, and in fact the Mallorcan Hotel Business Federation is convinced of this fact. ‘’Palma’s development as an urban destination is a reality and we boast a very high quality hotel infrastructure which will allow us to compete with Spanish and foreign cities of an equivalent cultural level, in the widest sense,’’ said the FEHM director, Inmaculada de Benito. Its hotels, combined with the much delayed Congress Palace will probably make the Balearic capital a competitor to be reckoned with.

IBEROSTAR Son Antem ***** MA-19 salida 20 07620 Llucmajor · Mallorca · España Tel.: +34 971 129 100 · Fax: +34 971 129 101 E-mail: son.antem@iberostar.com

Majorca is a paradise of picturesque villages, idyllic coves and kilometres of white-sand beaches. Experience the best the island has to offer at the new IBEROSTAR Son Antem, the new star in our sky. Discover this magnificent complex surrounded by 200 hectares of nature, two impressive 18-hole golf courses, beautiful gardens and attractive communal areas. Enjoy our elegant and spacious, fully-equipped suites, and savour the best of the Mediterranean diet thanks to an excellent culinary offer.

LOUN GES

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Son Antem Complete Son Antem A Son Antem B Son Antem A+B Son Antem C Son Antem A+B+C Son Antem D Son Antem C+D Llucmajor Complete Llucmajor E Llucmajor F Llucmajor G Llucmajor E+F Llucmajor F+G Son Verí I Son Verí II Sala Privada

284 48 48 97 97 194 90 188 183 58 66 66 125 125 19 24 24

3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10 3,10

250 32 32 64 64 112 64 112 190 60 60 60 120 120 -

140 18 18 48 48 96 48 69 90 30 30 30 60 60 -

66 18 18 36 36 40 36 40 55 24 24 24 48 48 10 15 15

55 16 16 25 25 36 25 36 50 20 20 20 40 40 -

96 15 15 30 30 60 30 60 60 15 20 15 35 35 -

190 30 30 62 62 90 62 90 140 48 48 48 96 96 -

• New IBEROSTAR hotel, ideal for business trips • Beautiful communal areas and 200 hectares of nature • 9 versatile meeting and conference rooms with high speed Internet connection • Two magnificent 18-hole golf courses surrounded by native flora • 3,000 m2 spa with wet zone, treatments and heated pool • Ideal for Events and Incentives

Accommodation · 151 rooms, including 4 junior suites, 3 suites, 1 superior suite and 2 accessible rooms

Location · 10 km from the beach · 15 km from Palma Airport (PMI) · Complimentary beach transfer in July / August

Facilities and services · Totally adapted for people with reduced mobility · Outdoor pool · Indoor heated pool ($)

· Sun loungers, towels and parasols around the pool · 2 bars · Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and internet corner ($) · Spa with large wet zone and exclusive treatments · Beauty salon · 9 conference rooms with personalised service and high-speed internet · All-inclusive optional · New Chill Out area Gastronomy · Buffet restaurant · À la Carte restaurant · Snack bar and pool bar Sport · 2 professional 18-hole golf courses · The largest practice course on the Balearic Islands · Driving Range, 3 Putting Greens, short-game zone with practice bunkers · Club House and golf Academy · Tennis courts · Fitness suite Entertainment · Professional shows

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The Canary Islands consolidates itself as a conference destination

Business travellers are highly profitable for the islands due to their high expenditure at destination the general public. Tenerife will also soon welcome an incentive group from Alaska in what will be an exciting initiation into the US market.

Promotur will launch a conference platform in 2014.

The Canary Islands is a leading destination for holiday tourism and is starting to play an important role in the conference, convention and incentive sector. The experience it has accumulated over recent years and the professionalism it demonstrates within this sphere has attracted a great deal of companies which choose it more and more often as the place to hold their professional events.

very year a significant number of national and international tour operators choose this group of islands for the presentation of their brochures and updates for the new season. Professionals from the medical, pharmaceutical or education sector also tend to hold some kind of annual event here. Without forgetting the thousands of events organised by the financial and commercial sectors in the form of working days and seminars. These are just some of the professional areas which show the most loyalty to the Canaries for the celebration of their work meetings. Its favourable climate, excellent infrastructure and great connections make for the perfect combination when it comes to holding this type of event. The archipelago held 200 events in 2012, featuring conferences, conventions and incentives, for a total of 180.000 delegates, not

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counting the hundreds of technical days and seminars which were also held here. News for 2014 The sector already anticipates a few changes for this coming year. The promotional organisation, Promotur, is working on designing a conference platform which plans to enrich what the region has to offer and which will be fully operative in 2014. Flight connections will also improve, a fundamental element for the development of this activity on the islands. Even Tenerife, which was greatly affected by the closure of Spanair, an airline which was very much involved in the conference sector, has signed an agreement with Iberia to promote professional meetings and which will mean that the sector has access to cheaper flight tickets than those available to

Delegate profile Of the 10.7 million visitors which arrived in the Canaries in 2012, 223,426 did so for professional reasons, business, fairs and conferences, according to a survey carried out by ISTAC, The Canary Islands Statistics Institute. This report details the most characteristic features of travellers who visit the archipelago for a work related event. One such characteristic is that they stay for a shorter period of time than a holiday tourist. Most of them, almost 31% of all business tourists, stayed at 5 star accommodation establishments, compared to 7% of all the visitors who came to the Canaries. 27% chose to stay at four star hotels, compared to 40% of the total. 23.7% chose lower category establishments, compared to 17.3% of the total visitors to the island. The delegatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; average expenses are slightly lower than that of general tourists: 124.25 Euros, compared to 125.23 Euros. They also spend less at their place of origin, 66.40 Euros, while leisure travellers spend an average 88.01 Euros. Professional travellers, however, are much more profitable for the destination, as they spend quite a lot more once they are on the islands, than a holiday tourist: 57.85 Euros, compared to 37.2 Euros. Business travellers tend to have higher spending power, because, generally speaking, their costs are taken care of by the company they represent; their transport and accommodation is paid for which means they have more money to spend shopping at the destination. Half of all delegates are Spanish and the second issuing market is Germany with 17% of the total. Followed by Denmark with 5.7% and the United Kingdom with 3.7%. When considering the total number of tourists, the distribution between women and men is at more or less 50% each, whereas of the total number of work meeting participants there are more women, 55.6%, while 44.4% are men. The average age for delegates is 41.3 years old, slightly below the total average which is 43.9 years old. Carmen Porras

The perfect setting The Canary Islands offer exceptional natural surroundings and facilities for conferences, business meetings and incentive trips

usiness tourism is booming and the number of trips organised with professional development in mind but which also incorporate the enjoyment of the destination visited is constantly growing. The Canary Islands are ideal for conferences, conventions, business meetings and incentive trips, all of which can be combined with a wide range of leisure options. The Canary Islands archipelago offers exceptional conditions for this segment, not only thanks to its privileged climate (and average annual temperature of 22ยบC) but also due to its tourism facilities; from accommodation to gastronomy and leisure, all of which make the region ideal for this high-end sector of the tourism market. The Canaries are geographically situated two hours and a half away from mainland Spain and from four of the main European capitals. The islands boast eight airports and a great deal of direct flight connections with

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the continent. They are also equipped with modern infrastructure and facilities which have been specifically designed with this type

of event in mind - auditoriums, conference centres, trade fair parks, large event rooms in hotels- and are able to host large-scale

group and incentive holidays as well as many other service providers (setting up stands, hiring hostesses, sound and light technicians, audiovisual equipment, interpreting services, shows and entertainment, catering and restaurants, communication and public relations, press rooms, leisure program development and excursions etc.) These groups of professionals specialise in advising on and offering cutting edge services, which are always of superior quality and highly creative. The Canariesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; climate and spectacular natural beauty make it a favourite destination amongst European tourists all year round who are ever more attracted by its choice of accommodation, leisure and options for excellent beach holidays. Apart from all these ideal conditions, the Canary Islands bring together numerous possibilities so that the

participants in any type of event held on the islands can enjoy interesting complementary leisure programmes and day trips, and get to know the privileged natural surroundings, rich history and culture and the varied gastronomy, without forgetting its beaches; of which there are hundreds across all of the islands which make up the archipelago. These visits are a superb complement to offer the delegates taking part in any event or as parallel leisure programmes for their travel companions to enjoy whilst the work sessions are taking place. The regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tourism board Turismo de Canarias has been working to promote the destination as an ideal option for the celebration of all types of conference related events for many years now; they know it is important for the islands to specialise in this type of tourism and their main objective is to make sure potential clients are aware of the existence of their tourism product and that the Canary Islands are able to offer them exceptional services and infrastructure for all their events.

Further information at Turismo de Canarias www.turismodecanarias.com Gran Canaria Convention Bureau www.grancanariacb.com Tenerife Convention Bureau www.tenerifecb.com Lanzarote Convention Bureau www.turismolanzarote.com Fuerteventura Convention Bureau www.fuerteventuraturismo.com

events with capacities of up to 4000 people. In addition, the islands benefit from fantastic maritime connections and a high quality road network, as well as first class health and security services. The wide variety of services on offer directed at conference organisers, specialised event companies and travel agencies make the Canary Islands an ideal destination for your upcoming business or work related events, the success of which is guaranteed. As a indispensable complement to the various venues available for meetings and special events, the Canary Islands are also home to a wide range of companies specialised in various different related services all with proven results and experience. Thus, it is very easy to find travel agencies and companies specialising in conference MICE 2014

IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Mencey *****

Grand Hotel Mencey

Calle Doctor José Naveiras, 38 E-38004 Santa Cruz de Tenerife Islas Canarias · Tenerife · España Tel.: +34 922 609 900 · Fax: +34 922 280 017 E-mail: hotel.mencey@iberostar.com

Enjoy a holiday of maximum luxury and comfort combined with the infinite possibilities of a beautiful, lively city with a unique island character. Having undergone a total refurbishment, the IBEROSTAR Grand Hotel Mencey is now a modern and magnificent 5-star complex, belonging to IBEROSTAR’s luxury category, built in stunning colonial-style architecture of the Canary Islands, from which you can experience all the marvels that the bustling, cosmopolitan city of Santa Cruz has to offer, open to the sea and brimming over with attractions that are well worth a visit.

• 11 lounges for events with capacity for up to 450 people • 2 speciality restaurants and Cookery Classroom Location · 300 metres from the centre of Santa Cruz de Tenerife · 8.5 km from Las Teresitas beach · 14 km from Los Rodeos airport (TFN) · Special offers among IBEROSTAR North-South hotels

• Emblematic establishment with colonialstyle architecture • Urban hotel, ideal for adults, recently renovated • Spa with wet zone, large gym and all kinds of treatments

Accommodation · 261 rooms, including 29 Junior Suites, 19 Executive Suites, 1 Royal Suite and 5 accessible rooms

Facilities and services · Heated outdoor pool · 2 bars · Wi-Fi throughout the hotel · 2,000 m2 Spa Zone · Thermal circuit with swan-neck fountains, waterfall, jacuzzi, cold pool, flotarium, sauna and Turkish bath, etc. · 13 cabins for individual and couples’ massages and treatments · Cookery Classroom, where you can learn from our chefs · Casino · Car park · Areas to relax and enjoy free time · 11 lounges for events with capacity for up to 450 people, equipped with cutting-edge audiovisual technology Gastronomy · Los Menceyes Restaurant · À la carte restaurant by the pool · Afternoon snacks with a selection of teas and coffees, pastries, mini-sandwiches and petit fours Furthermore, we complement our facilities with a magnificent Cookery Classroom where we hold courses for groups or individuals and team-building activities led by our chef.

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Tinerfe Tinerfe I Tinerfe II Tinerfe III Guezala Plataneras Nivaria Acaymo Anaga Tacoronte Taganana Tegueste Martín González Casa Duque · 1a Planta Casa Duque · Planta baja

641 133 250 258 177 241 311 54 53 37 37 23 145 68 98

3,20 2,70 3,20 3,20 4,32 3,90 3,05 3,70 4,26 2,80 2,80 2,80 4,21 3,20 2,90

400 72 150 160 100 150 180 30 80 50 50

240 50 90 100 80 120 120 20 70 40 40

24 50 50 40 40 45 16 16 10 10 10 40 30 30

400 400 120 120 80 150 200 15 10 10 80 50 80

450 450 170 170 150 180 220 30 120 50 100

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Sport · 2 paddle tennis courts · Golf course nearby · Excursions and hiking on Mount Teide · Diving and cetacean spotting · Water sports (8.5 km away) · Fitness centre with led activities Entertainment Live music at the weekend

The impressive silhouette of the El Batel Auditorium and Conference Centre against the port and the sea represents an architectural revolution. The buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exterior is dominated by straight lines which mimic the shipping containers stacked along the docks. Characterized by the absence of pillars, the complex structure creates an interior composed of large, open areas creating weightless, calming

effect reminiscent of the sea floor itself. The buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surroundings, which feature a

spruce wood boardwalk and a variety of plantlife, form a receational area where visitors can enjoy a stroll along the seafront promenade.

The building can accomodate a total of 2,500 people spread out over its 9 rooms. The main hall, Room A, can accommodate 1,401 spectators. This room is located below sea level. Room B is a comfortable auditorium for 444 people. The main 1,100 square meter hall, was designed as a grand walkway that takes visitors down to the multipurpose rooms.

Rooms Room A

m2 224 Stage

Room B

72 Stage

7 multiuse rooms

83,2 87 87 83,2 82,8 94 81 600 1.100 40 100 115 800 600

Exposition room Commercial Expo Hall Vip Lounge VIP XYZ room Rehearsal room Ground terrace Sea Terrace

Theater Capacity 1401 Box - 565 Amphitheater 1 - 498 Amphitheater 2- 332 Handicappped seats - 6 444 Box 442 Handicappped seats - 2 Room 1 80 Room 2 85 Room 3 80 Room 4 80 Room 5 85 Room 6 90 Room 7 65 28 3*2 stands 37 3*2 stands

700 500

Another impressive ramp suspended from the ceiling asceneds to the top level, leading to the exhibition hall. On this floor we also find the VIP lounge, a large terrace above the Alfonso XII promenade and another terrace featuring views of the sporting marina, the restaurant/cafe and an office neighborhood.

El Batel Auditorium and Conference Centre Paseo Alfonso XII s/n 30201 Cartagena, Murcia Tel. 968 12 38 27 www.auditorioelbatel.es

To work like this is a pleasure H10 Hotels has 27 elegant Meetings and Events hotels in 16 exceptional destinations. Centrally located, they offer meeting rooms equipped with state-of-the-art technology, all with free Wi-Fi. Furthermore, our select choice of cuisine and expert team of professionals will help to ensure that your business meetings and events are a great success.

With you in mind

www.h10hotels.com / T (34) 902 100 906 / reservas@h10hotels.com Tenerife · Lanzarote · Fuerteventura · La Palma · Gran Canaria · Mallorca · Costa del Sol · Costa Daurada · Riviera Maya · Punta Cana · Cuba · Barcelona · Madrid · Rome · London · Berlin