CommuniQuest Incentive Travel Digest - Year 11 Vol. 1, 223

DIRECTORY

Visionary, Founder and Seller of Dreams

Jose Manuel GARCIA, CDS jmgarcia@ividmc.travel

CEO

Leticia GARCIA lgarcia@ividmc.travel

President

Raquel MIJARES, CIS, DMCP, CITP rmijares@ividmc.travel

Vice President of Marketing

Mariana LEON, CMS, CITP mleon@@ividmc.travel

Corporate Quality Director Julia ORTIZ, CES, CMS jortiz@ividmc.travel

IT Manager Ibrahyn OLIVAS informatica2@ividmc.travel

President dQuestDMO

Jose Luis REVILLA jlrevilla@dquest.travel

Content & Editing

Omar DELGADILLO corp.news@ividmc.travel

A Wildlife Expedition Through LATAM

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Corporate News

We had a fantastic time during our visit to the Tianguis Turistico! Not only did we have the opportunity to connect with some great friends, but we also experienced so much more.

Pg. 24 Article

Discover Quintana Roo's latest initiative to raise awareness among local travelers.

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Mexico

Follow us on:

Join us on a journey to some of Mexico's most vibrant destinations, each home to hundreds of unique species. Be sure to take note of these incredible places, as you'll definitely want to visit them all.

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dQuest Shop

Learn about the craftsmanship that goes into creating our meaningful gifts, that depict the perfect story.

A letter from our founder

Dear reader,

Latin America is home to an incredibly diverse array of wildlife, making it a fascinating destination for MICE travelers. From whale sharks to a variety of endangered species, the region offers a wealth of opportunities to observe rare and exotic species in their natural habitats. Whether you're organizing a team-building retreat or a conference with a sustainability focus, incorporating a wildlife excursion into your itinerary is sure to inspire and engage your attendees. Let us help you create an unforgettable event that combines business with an authentic taste of Mexico's vibrant culture while providing you with our unparalleled level of service. Our accomplishments and enthusiastic attitude are what uphold our motto, in your business, “WE MAKE YOU LOOK GREAT”!

ABOUT IVI DMC

Sincerely,

José-Manuel GARCÍA, CDS Visionary, Founder and Dream Seller Visionary, Founder and Seller of Dreams

IVI DMC Enterprises specializes in planning, logistics, and destination management services for incentives + corporate meetings + global congresses + ad-hoc events.

What we do…

We are experts in the design and execution of personalized programs for incentives, meetings, and ad-hoc events. This includes professional services for meet & greet, registration, hospitality desk, transportation, gift items, recreational activities, custom-designed group tours, teambuilding, pre and post tours, special events, innovative theme parties, decoration, A/V equipment, entertainment, photography, dinner programs, site inspections, VIP assistance, and more. From casual to elegant and from fun to artistic, we customize your program to suit your needs.

Fast Facts

• Creation: November 1, 1986

• Corporate Office: Cancun, Mexico

• Offices in Mexico: Los Cabos, Bahia de Banderas, and Mexican Caribbean

• Offices in The Caribbean: the Dominican Republic

• Specialization: Incentives, Meetings, and Ad-Hoc Events

• Clients: Incentive houses, specialized travel agencies, site selection companies, insurance, financial, and more!

• 1st DMC in Mexico: Implementing new service standards, such as our own quality system and latest technology across the enterprise

• Testimonials: Over 8,901 to date and several service awards granted by incentive houses

• Partnerships: As a leader in our field, we are also proud members of SITE, MPI, FICP, and DMC Coalition

• Rates: Guaranteed inclusive prices for 5 years offering the best cost-benefit ratio

Destination offices in Mexico & the Caribbean

IVI DMC Los Cabos

Marla GUADIAN, CMS, CIS

Destination Vice President mguadian@ividmc.travel

IVI DMC Bahia de Banderas

Jaime NELO, DMCP, CIS, CMS, CES, CCM Destination Vice President jnelo@ividmc.travel

IVI DMC Dominican Republic

Bidia BISSUMBHAR, CIS, CES, CMM Regional Vice President bidia@ividmc.travel

IVI DMC Mexican Caribbean

Fernando Flores, CMS Business & Planning Executive cun.business2@ividmc.travel

Hello BLUE-BEES! We’ve missed sharing our experiences with all of you. It was an amazing month with a lot of amazing adventures. So lets begin.

At the begining of the month our team from Central Mexico visited one of the greatest tourism events in Mexico “El Tianguis Turístico”. It’s an excelent opportunity to connect with great industry allies.

A couple of days later part of our team visited St. Regis Kanai. A brand-new property located in the Riviera Maya. It is a perfect option for meetings, incentives + AD-HOC events. Thanks to Olga Muñoz, Ivan Aragon, Tania Vargas and the entire team!

All the way to Bahia de Banderas, Jaime Nelo received at the airport Jacqueline Acomb and Samantha Nicastro. They came to this great destination to plan SITE Classic 2023. We hope you enjoyed your stay!

And then, our team in the Mexican Caribbean welcomed our good friend Shea-Lynn Estrada from Augeo. Our destination is ready to welcome your programs.

Flying along with the Blue-Bee Squad

Another great moment during the month was when we had a conversation with Rocio Gonzales from the Mexican Caribbean Tourism Board (CPTQ)! We discussed new strategies to promote our beautiful destination.

Then we got this amazing testimonial from the Dominican Republic. We love to get our client’s feedback. It helps us keep improving and MAKING YOU LOOK GREAT!

Some days went by, and we also received in the Mexican Caribbean our good friend and ally, Mathew Ronk. We had a very productive business meeting with him in our offices, and we even went to have lunch at Mr. Garcia’s place. We hope you had a great time Mathew!

That was all for this month. Thank you for flying along with us, see you next month!

Central Mexico

Discover the wonders of six exceptional zoos located in and around Mexico City, offering you the opportunity to interact with a variety of exotic animals while learning about environmental conservation.

These zoos serve as sanctuaries for numerous endemic species that are at risk of extinction, providing them with a second chance to thrive in their new homes. Not only do these zoos offer an unforgettable experience, but they also offer educational programs that are inspired by the preservation of the country's unique flora and fauna.

Central Mexico

These programs highlight the importance of protecting these endangered species and the ecosystems they inhabit. Sadly, poaching, deforestation, pollution, and illegal trade are just a few of the issues that directly impact the animals within Mexico's borders.

The Wonders of Wildlife: Exploring the Natural World

Therefore, these zoos are committed to protecting and conserving these species through various initiatives and efforts.

Join us as we explore the best zoos in Mexico City and the surrounding areas, where you can witness firsthand the beauty of these animals and the critical role we all play in preserving their habitats.

Tlahuac Forest Park

If you're looking for an immersive animal experience in CDMX, look no further than the Happy Farm and Venadario del Bosque de Tláhuac. This all-ages space offers a unique opportunity to interact with and feed a variety of animals, including ducks, rabbits, cows, and deer, among others. At Happy Farm and Venadario del Bosque de Tláhuac, the main goal is to promote a healthy and respectful coexistence between humans and animals.

Chapultepec Zoo

The Chapultepec Zoo is one of the most iconic destinations in Mexico City, regarded as the "National Zoo" and a top-ranking zoo in all of Latin America. Founded in 1924 by Alfonso L. Herrera, the zoo is home to an impressive collection of 1,236 specimens from 222 different species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of diverse animal life, including rare and endangered species, while also learning about conservation efforts and animal welfare. Best of all, admission to the zoo is free from Tuesday to Sunday, with opening hours from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Inbursa Aquarium

If you're fascinated by the underwater world, be sure to visit the Inbursa Aquarium, a fully interactive experience that promises to amaze and educate visitors of all ages. With over 14,000 specimens from 350 species, including sharks, penguins, rays, jellyfish, axolotls, and a variety of reptiles, the aquarium features 50 exhibits spread across two traditional and interactive aquariums. Located in the Polanco neighborhood, right across from the Soumaya Museum, the Inbursa Aquarium is an excellent destination for those seeking an immersive aquatic adventure.

Zacango Ecological Park

Zacango Ecological Park is a protected natural area covering 159.22 hectares, with 32 hectares dedicated to housing animals from various species around the world, including endangered ones. As a member of ALPZA and AZCARM, the park is committed to conservation efforts and protecting endangered species.

The tour can be enjoyed on foot or by train, and there's a children's play area with an artificial lake, an Education Center for Conservation with educational activities, souvenir shops, restaurants, and food stalls, and seven sanitary modules located throughout the park. With official parking for visitors and workers, Zacango Ecological Park offers a complete experience for nature lovers and families seeking a fun day out.

Africam Safari

Africam Safari is a top tourist attraction in Puebla and a center for conservation, education, and research. Home to nearly 2,000 animals of 250 different species from all continents, it offers exciting adventures where visitors can observe animals in areas similar to their original habitats. Africam has 80 hectares where visitors can experience the safari-style adventure of observing animals from a bus or by car.

There are also many environmental education programs for people of all ages and groups. Visitors can walk freely among beautiful gardens and observe many species. Africam Safari is dedicated to ecological education and aims to generate a positive change in attitudes towards the environment. It continuously innovates, offering new services such as the night safari and confinement of lions for VIP groups. The center has achieved great success in the conservation and reproduction of difficult-to-keep species in captivity, making it one of the top centers in the world. These conservation efforts focus not only on fauna but also on native flora.

Fun Fact

Feeding almost 2,000 animals is no small feat. Africam Safari takes on this challenge by providing 3.6 tons of meat and 2.8 tons of chicken parts to the animals every week. In addition, they also provide 5 tons of fruits and vegetables, 504,000 liters of water, 18 tons of pasture, 3.5 tons of concentrated feed, and 1 ton of seeds to ensure the animals have a well-balanced and nutritious diet.

Biopark Estrella

This is the largest safari-themed park in Mexico, spread across 300 hectares of land and home to over 500 animals, including elephants, giraffes, lions, tigers, zebras, camels, hippos, primates, birds, and sea lions. Visitors can enjoy more than 20 attractions, such as the Serengeti Safari, Giraffe Paradise, Jurassic River, and Land of Dinosaurs.

The park also offers live shows like Buccaneers and Wolves, starring sea lions and a giant pirate ship. Thrill-seekers can try out Extremus, Kamba zip line, Eurobungy, and the Antarctic slider. For a more relaxing experience, visitors can take a pedal boat ride. Other attractions include the Subterranean, Muziki Theater, Environmental Pavilion, Mini Zoo, playground, Watusi Challenge, and climbing wall.

The Mexican Caribbean and the rest of the Yucatan peninsula are fortunate to have incomparable natural wealth in their territories, among which the fascinating fauna of the region stands out. Crocodiles, dolphins, flamingos, macaws, monkeys, whale sharks, and even the second largest coral reef in the world; Cancun and the Riviera Maya offer many unique opportunities for wildlife encounters. If you are an animal lover, then you must experience some of these activities.

Mexican Caribean

Bird Watching in Isla Contoy

Isla Contoy is a stunning destination that sits just 30 kilometers away from Isla Mujeres. Its vast 230-hectare territory boasts an incredible range of protected flora and fauna species. One of the most magnificent natural wonders it protects is the second-largest reef in the world, Ixlaché.

This little slice of paradise, also known as Bird Island, is a true haven for birds, with an abundance of different species taking refuge there. Since 1961, the Mexican government has safeguarded the island, and it was declared a national park in 1998.

The island is home to 152 tropical seabird species, including frigate birds, brown pelicans, terns, cormorants, and herring gulls, to name a few. In addition, 14 species of reptiles also call the island home. For avid bird watchers, Isla Contoy is an absolute must-see destination. And, when you're not taking in the spectacular birdlife, you can enjoy snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters that surround the island.

Whale Shark Adventure

An incredible opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits you in the crystal clear waters of the Mexican Caribbean off the beautiful Isla Mujeres.

The Gentle Giants of the Ocean: Exploring the World of Whale Sharks

Every summer between the months of May and September hundreds of whale sharks gather north of Isla Mujeres to feed on oceanic plankton and nekton brought by ocean currents. Whale sharks, whose scientific name is Rhincodon typus, are the largest fish on the planet, and their imposing size is worthy of admiration.

Swimming with this giant of the sea is an unforgettable experience that only happens in a few privileged places in the world; and no other with so many sharks at the same time. The best places to experience this activity are located around the islands north of Cancun. A group of experts will guide you to the place where these giant and gentle fish that can weigh up to 9 tons meet.

What our clients have to say

Everything

Michelle Castady Orlando, DMCP | Principal + Owner, Midwest

was amazing from first phone call to final departure! Thank the entire team for making us all feel like VIP's.

Crococun Zoo

Enjoy a unique experience in Cancun, by visiting the Croco Cun interactive zoo. Connect with nature on a guided tour among crocodiles, deer, parrots, spider monkeys, and other species where you'll have the opportunity to interact with them in a safe environment. The Croco Cun Zoo is located near Puerto Morelos and is home to some of the most captivating species that you can admire and touch amidst the tropical jungle. Delve into the unknown, live unexpected emotions, and feel the adrenaline of walking among crocodiles.

Horseback Riding

Indulge in a delightful experience of horseback riding amidst stunning landscapes, accompanied by majestic horses and friendly guides. Whether with family, friends, or your partner, this activity promises to create unforgettable memories for you. Discover the mesmerizing Rancho Bonanza, a unique destination offering an authentic Mexican-style ambiance for horseback riding enthusiasts. While exploring the lush vegetation of the Jungle, keep your eyes open to spot local wildlife like monkeys, exotic birds, lizards, and other intriguing species. Additionally, take a refreshing dip in a beautiful cenote and explore a fascinating cave. Come, immerse yourself in a magical adventure!

Camel Safari

Looking for an exotic and unique adventure? Look no further than our Camel Safari Tour, where you can enjoy a scenic camel ride through the lush jungle of the Riviera Maya. This unforgettable experience is specially designed for adventurous travelers who want to explore the natural beauty of the area in a truly unique way. While camel rides are often associated with the Middle East, you don't have to travel that far to meet these friendly and fascinating animals.

Interact with camels up close and even take a fun photo with them. These gentle giants stand nearly 2 meters tall, making for an impressive sight against the backdrop of the beautiful beach of Maroma. Did you know that camels have three eyelids and two rows of eyelashes to protect their eyes from sand and dust? It's just one of the fascinating facts you'll learn about these amazing animals on our Camel Safari Tour.

Interaction with Sea Lions and Manatees

Embark on a truly unforgettable adventure by getting up close to friendly manatees and playful sea lions, and learning about their fascinating diets and other amusing facts. This unique opportunity allows you to feed these gentle creatures, give them affectionate hugs and kisses, and even caress them which takes place in either Isla Mujeres or Puerto Aventuras. But that's not all - you can also marvel at the grace and beauty of manta rays, and observe the majestic sharks as they glide through the water.

Swim with Dolphins in Cancun and the Riviera Maya

Swimming with dolphins in Cancun and the Riviera Maya is an exhilarating activity and one of the most popular things to do in this stunning destination. This region boasts the best dolphinariums and programs available, making it one of the few places in the world where you can have such an incredible experience. During the program, you'll learn about their development and behavior, and have the opportunity to caress these incredible creatures. The dolphinariums in and around Cancun offer different activities and programs to swim with dolphins, ensuring that there's something for everyone. In addition to the charm of living with the dolphins, you'll also get your heart pumping with adrenaline-filled activities, such as holding onto their fins as they take you for a ride. However, the most spectacular moment is undoubtedly the "Foot Push," where two dolphins will push you through the water at high speed until you "fly" out of the water. This is an unforgettable experience that you won't want to miss.

Diving with bull sharks in Playa del Carmen

If you're a certified diver, don't miss the chance to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of bull sharks in their natural habitat. From November to March, Playa del Carmen is widely regarded as one of the best locations in the world to see these majestic predators before they migrate north. You'll have the opportunity to witness their grace and power in person, and learn about their fascinating behavior from knowledgeable guides. This unique opportunity is reserved for certified divers who are looking for an adventure that is both thrilling and educational.

What our clients have to say

As always a great job making us and the client feel comfortable that everything was being taken care of. Wonderful communication during planning. Outstanding program operation.

John DeLeon | Vice President Sales & Operations

Akumal SanctuaryMonkey & Rescued Animals

We are a space created with the purpose of housing some species of wildlife or fauna in the process of domestication, regardless of their origin, that is, without making a distinction between native or introduced species. Generally, they are specimens that have been mainly affected by human actions or natural phenomena that negatively influence the environment, preventing in most cases the reintroduction to their natural environment and consequently, remaining for life under human care. Currently, more than 200 specimens from 55 different species have been rescued. As part of the activities carried out under the margin of environmental education, educational tours are given by our trained guides.

The guides are responsible for transmitting the history of the specimens we house, explaining the place of origin, the reason why they are in our place, which we do to keep them in good condition, and the biology of the species. Visitors have the opportunity to be face-to-face with the specimens in the educational bonding program, they are allowed to know and link more naturally without the need for a forced approach. In this way, we can promote awareness of both native and exotic wildlife care and prevent the acquisition of such species as pets.

Quintana

Roo launches a digital campaign for its national market

The Quintana Roo Tourism Promotion Council (CPTQ), within its plan for this year and as part of the marketing strategy with which it seeks to continue strengthening the positioning of the Mexican Caribbean and its tourist destinations, launched a digital campaign focused on its totality to the national market called "Feel the Mexican Caribbean", with which it is estimated to generate 6 million impacts.

The campaign consists of the visit of five content creators who will be in all tourist destinations in the Mexican Caribbean: Holbox, Isla Mujeres, Cancun, Costa Mujeres, Puerto Morelos, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Riviera Maya, Maya Ka'an, Bacalar, Chetumal, and Mahahual so that they share with their followers on social networks the experiences lived during their stays.

What our clients have to say

Exceptional service was provided by Jaime and his team. Words best to describe our experience with IVI DMC Puerto Vallarta; clear, knowledgeable, patient, flexible, proactive, responsive, thorough, and most importantly seamless and invaluable. Thank you once again.

Sabrina Fernandes | Travel Specialist

The squad that continues to MAKE YOU LOOK GREAT!

At dQuest.Shop, we understand that the moments that truly shape our lives are often accompanied by a unique blend of emotions, lessons, and sensations that make them truly stand out. It is precisely for this reason that we strive to offer you gifts of artisanal origin, which serve as tangible reminders of these precious experiences. Whether you're looking for a piece of wood from an exotic trip where you learned about different trees in the area or a beautifully crafted Mexican doll dressed in your child's favorite color, we have the perfect gift for you, rich in culture, art, and tradition.

Essential Travel Tips

Embrace spontaneity and say "yes" to new experiences

Traveling is all about exploring new places and trying new things. When you're on a trip, don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and say "yes" to unexpected opportunities. By embracing spontaneity and being open to new experiences, you'll create unforgettable memories and have a more authentic travel experience. So go ahead, say "yes" to that adventure and see where it takes you!

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Serving the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions industry since 1986.

Find us in over 15 destinations throughout:

• Mexico

• Dominican Republic

Dear reader!

Thanks for reading CommuniQuest Incentive Travel Digest I hope you find in this newsletter a useful tool that will help you make decisions for your successful business.We would be delighted to know if there anything else you’d like to see or experience in this monthly newsletter. Your suggestions are more than welcome. We wish you the best in your endeavors and business adventures, and please, don’t forget, working with us “WILL MAKE YOU LOOK GREAT”.

Sincerely,

José-Manuel GARCÍA, CDS

Visionary, Founder and Dream Seller

Visionary, Founder and Seller of Dreams