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Year 8 Vol. 1, Issue 103 Visionary, Founder, & Master Coach
Jose-Manuel GARCIA, CDS jmgarcia@ividmc.travel
President
Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA, CIS manolo@ividmc.travel
General Comptroller
Trinidad SANCHEZ tsanchez@ividmc.travel
Corporate Marketing and Business Director
Francisco BAEZA fbaeza@ividmc.travel
Corporate Quality Director
Julia ORTIZ jortiz@ividmc.travel
Electronic Publishing
Alejandro PECH apech@ividmc.travel
Content and Editing
Omar GALLEGOS ivicorp@ividmc.travel
Contents:
Page
How to Prepare a Tamarind Smoothie
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Cover Subject:
Solid Developments That Promote Epic Events Find out government decisions that have had a direct bearing on local infrastructure such as meeting facilities, airports, & much more! Interview with Raquel MIJARES Quick Hits: Friends of the Maya Foundation
Managing Director —MyDay Travel
Jorge OROZCO, DMCP jorozco@myday.travel
Corporate Headquarters:
Av. Acanceh 1-01, SM 15 Cancun, Q. Roo, 77500 Mex. Ph. +52 (998) 287-1700 www.ividmc.travel
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Golf Cup Melia Cuba
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Dr. Travel’s: Making a Case for the Suitcase
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Destination Offices: Mexico
Caribbean
Central America
South America
IVI DMC² Cancun & Riviera Maya Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA, CIS President manolo@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Dominican Republic Genaro ALMONTE, CIS Regional Managing Director galmonte@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, & Honduras
IVI DMC² Mexico City, Central Mexico, Puerto Vallarta, & Riviera Nayarit Jaime NELO Destination Managing Director jnelo@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Cuba Alejandro DEBASA Regional Managing Director adebasa@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Costa Rica Sonia VARGAS Destination Manager svargas@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Brazil Andrea MAJELA Regional Managing Director amajela@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Panama Ligia VARGAS Regional Managing Director lvargas@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Argentina & Chile Leila GOROSITO Regional Managing Director lgorosito@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit
Alexandra GONZALEZ Destination Manager agonzalez@ividmc.travel IVI DMC² Los Cabos Mario FOSTER Destination Managing Director mfoster@ividmc.travel
Jorge LAZO Regional Managing Director jlazo@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Colombia Carolina CALDERON Regional Managing Director ccalderon@ividmc.travel
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August 2015
How to Prepare a Tamarind Smoothie If it is the first time you hear this word, no worries, you're not alone - at least in North America, tamarind is still relatively unknown. This peculiar fruit will make your mouth gladly pucker, then smile because it is bitter sweet! In large parts of the world, particularly Latin America and India, tamarind is a taste treasure. Tamarind water, smoothies, or tea are considered an indispensable beverage for getting through hot weather since this unique fruit will refresh your soul. Here is an easy recipe to make a delicious tamarindmango smoothie. You can also try combining tamarind with bananas or orange juice. Sky’s the limit to your imagination!
Ingredients: (Servings: 4; total time: 5 min.) 1 or 2 tablespoon tamarind paste 1 pound frozen mango 4 tablespoons agave nectar 1 14-ounce can unsweetened coconut milk
Preparation: Add the mango, tamarind paste, agave nectar, and coconut milk to a blender and blend until smooth. Serve chilled.
expectations by going the extra mile so to speak in regard to superlative service. A satisfied client is our ultimate goal. With these lofty standards in mind, we strive to choose and only work with suppliers that meet our criteria in order to render an out-of-the-ordinary service.
Message From Headquarters As President of IVI DMC2, I deem it an honor to run this prestigious company and continue its positioning as one of the best in the market. The canons assertively say that the customer is first, and I concur. I also agree that our associates are the strong backbone of our company, and I consider them as my extended family. Without them we would not be where we are today.
After 29 eventful years in the business, IVI DMC2 is proud of the relationships we have forged with thousands of satisfied customers. We invite you to enjoy the pleasure of doing business with us and see for yourself that an unforgettable and successful event is feasible. You have my unfailing commitment to make you and your group look great!
Our company is recognized in the M&I industry as being down to earth and having an outstanding service-minded attitude. Our unchangeable commitment is to exceed our customers’
Sincerely, Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA, CIS President
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Cover Topic:
Solid Developments That Promote Epic Events Find out government decisions that have had a direct bearing on local infrastructure such as meeting facilities, airports, & much more!
eatrunsee.com
Belize Eliminating Visas Boosts Tourism The Ministry of Immigration in Belize made the decision to remove visa requirements for several countries, including Brazil, Colombia, and other countries in Latin America and Asia. Others who will benefit with these changes will be permanent U.S. residents and citizens of Japan. One of the reasons why Belize decided to make these changes, was to encourage a major flow of tourists to the country without having unnecessary delays upon arrival. Currently, citizens from about 50 different countries can freely enter Belize.
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Central America
Central America
August 2015
Guatemala The Hotel Zone of Guatemala City Will Boast More High End Brands New constructions and renovations are being prepared for the hotel zone of Guatemala City. Vista Real Hotel is among the new constructions; and the Intercontinental Hotel will undergo an important renovation of its rooms and auditoriums. One of the most important construction projects will be the new Westin Camino Real International Convention Center. Doubtless, it will a leader in holding successful corporate events in the capital city. It will have a capacity for up to 3,000 people. The auditorium will feature leather seats and simultaneous translation booths. This year will also open the Hyatt Place along with the Courtyard by Marriott hotel, which will feature 147 rooms and a business center.
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Honduras New Air Track Connects Roatan with Copan The new track has been called Copan Airport. With this new infrastructure, the tourism authorities have high expectations, hoping to receive more visitors from around the world this 2015. The Director of the Honduran Institute of Tourism, Emilio Silvestri, said that they expect the arrival of approximately 180,000 tourists from Europe, Central America, and the United States. With the new track in Copan, tourists will be able to travel by charter flight to visit both Copan and Roatan on the same day!
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Central America
Central America
August 2015
Costa Rica What makes Costa Rica the ideal destination for your meetings and incentive travel events? Certainly there are many reasons. To name a few: Its recognized dedication to the conservation of natural resources, its rich biodiversity and quality hotel infrastructure, its well-known political stability, its high quality health services, the ease of air access and excellent technological development. These are just a few reasons why many world renowned companies decide to come and visit us with their groups. The Costa Rica Convention Bureau, founded in July 1998, has been very instrumental in achieving the above, and also, in supporting the companies which service the incentives and meetings markets. This office’s aim is to continue positioning Costa Rica as a highly attractive incentive and meetings destination. The Costa Rica Convention Bureau works closely with the Costa Rica Tourism Board to create and implement advertising and promotional media such as: The Official Guide of Costa Rica Meetings and Incentive Travel, useful maps and brochures with eye-catching photos, among other means.
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Panama With a 13.6% growth in the tourism sector from 2013 to 2014, Panama has taken a quantum leap as a tourist destination. The federal government, along with the Tourism Authority of Panama (ATP), have developed in recent years new projects that have promoted the growth of this sector and thus have attracted tourists from the world over. Speaking specifically of the M&I business, the government is in the process of building what will be the largest convention center in the region to attract world-class conventions. Also, since preservation is of paramount concern, the government made it official the signing of the Master Sustainable Tourism Development Act which aims to reduce by almost 80% the waste produced by hotels, tourist transportation vehicles, etc. Thus, greener events will be the norm.
Picture to the left: Government Promoted Tourism
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Central America
Central America
August 2015
Government authorities of Panama working closely with the ATP, have realized that the events industry is growing on a large scale. Therefore, a joint effort of cooperation between the government and the private sector has been implemented. The aim is to launch Panama even more to a leadership position in the region as a preferred destination for international events. In mid 2014, the government granted the ATP over half a million U.S. dollars to promote the country with massive marketing efforts and advertising in North America, Latin America, and Europe. The ATP has been very instrumental in developing marketing strategies to further enhance the growth of tourism for Panama. As a result, Panama has much more presence as a choice destination worldwide. It is also important to note that Panama is one of the major hubs of international connectivity in Latin America; this was ratified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which in its 2007, placed Panama 4th place in terms of hubs. For this reason the government wisely decided to build a second terminal at the Tocumen International Airport in Panama City. This project is expected to double, if not more, the inbound and outbound of flights daily. This decision not only gives a further push to the country's economy, but it will also boost international tourism by having a greater array of flights and lower prices. Picture to the left: Panama at the IMEX Tourism Fair
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Interview with Raquel MIJARES IVI DMC2 Cancun CQ: Please tell us a little about yourself and about your career within IVI DMC². RM: I have lived in Cancun since I was a year old. I consider myself lucky to have witnessed the tremendous growth of our beautiful city. After graduating in hotel management, I worked for three years at two very important hotels. Eight years ago, I became part of this great family that is IVI DMC². I started as a program executive in the planning and events department, then as business & planning manager, and at present, as marketing, business & planning director. As in every exciting challenge I undertake, I commit myself 100% to the company and to our clients. CQ: In your opinion, why is Cancun a top destination for the M&I industry? RM: I can mention many reasons why Cancun & Riviera Maya are ideal destinations for the Meetings & Incentives industry, but I´ll mention just a few. Easy and smooth air connectivity through both commercial and charter flights connect Cancun to the main cities throughout the world. We have equipped and stylish meeting facilities, a wide variety of tours and activities unique to this region, as well as top level golf courses and high end restaurants. And last but not least, the unique combination of 3 worlds: the Mayan heritage, the incomparable colors of the Caribbean, and the folklore of Mexico's 32 states, makes our destination stand out from the rest.
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August 2015 CQ: What developments have been made locally to cater to the M&I industry needs? RM: Developments at the Cancun Airport: New flight routes mainly to Central and South America and the United States, the expanding of terminal 3 (for international flights), and an investment plan which includes the construction of terminal 4 which should be finished by 2017. Activities: After 10 years of presenting the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular show to more than 14 million viewers, Xcaret Park has begun a new era taking on a renewed and exciting approach to the show. With more than 300 performers on stage, this show is by and large, the most important of its kind that promotes Mexico’s rich culture and traditions. In addition, Cancun is constantly evolving to further cater to the meetings and incentives market needs with the opening of new resorts, new and fresh gastronomic experiences, as well as new excursions and activities to enjoy. CQ: What are some of the most popular activities on your agenda for clients? RM: Visits to the Mayan archaeological sites are one of the top activities in the area as guests really get to learn about our unique Mayan civilization, and the best thing is that we have options for half day tours such as Tulum, and full day tours such as Chichen Itza and Ek Balam. Also, with Cancun being connected to the largest barrier reef in the Americas, snorkeling tours are always popular and exciting for our visitors. Adventure tours involving zip lines, rappel or swimming in cenotes (sinkholes of crystal clear waters) are highly recommended as well. Connected by a network of underground rivers, cenotes are unique to the Yucatan Peninsula; some are open or semi-open, some feature caverns with stalactites and stalagmites. As you can see, cenotes are really a must for visitors!
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Sustainable Community Developments
Clothes Drive Donated by IVI DMC2 to the Nuevo Eden Church in the Vida y Esperanza Community
About Us... Our Vision: To run a world-class destination management company that sets fresh trends and establishes new standards for best practices in the M&I industry by exceeding customer expectations. Our Mission: To bear exceptional product knowledge, therefore, enabling us to provide creative solutions, cost-value and effectiveness in every measurable way. To earn and maintain our clients’ trust at each one of our IVI DMC2 destinations by assuring them that their goals are our goals too, and by delivering services that exceed industry standards and customer expectations. To maintain a smooth-operating and efficient business organization that utilizes streamlining management systems with ISO quality standards, and pride and belief in the remarkable abilities of our people. Our People: IVI DMC2 has more than 150 year-round full-time employees throughout our branch network in Latin American. Extraordinary personalities, willingness, knowledge, commitment, service-oriented attitude, and experience in groups and conventions are what characterize them. “Yes, since 1986, we are those neatly attired people in the turquoise blue and white uniforms. Many people call us "Smurfs" since we are knowledgeable, witty, fun to have around, and beautiful or handsome (not necessarily in that order).”
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August 2015
VII GOLF CUP MELIÁ CUBA October 21 – 24, 2015 IVI DMC² World Headquarters: Ave. Acanceh #1-01, SM 15 Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mx Phone: +52 (998) 287-1700 Email: ivicorp@ividmc.travel
Serving the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions Industry since 1986.
Price per Person for the Entire Event: Adults only (Legal age: 18)
Find us in over 40 destinations throughout:
4 nights/5 days Melia Las Americas Hotel - Standard single room: $616 USD / per person - Standard double room: $445 USD / per person - Standard triple room: $425 USD / per person Registration Fee: $150.00 USD per person Includes: Welcome kit, hospitality desk services, all green fees, a bucket of practice golf balls, shared golf cart for the days of the competition, refreshments during the two rounds of competition (not included for the day of practice), trophies, gala dinner, and awards ceremony. Categories: Men: Handicap 0-14 / Handicap 15-26 Women: Handicap 0-14 / Handicap 15-36 Program Day 1: 19:00 hrs. Welcome cocktail, rules, and etiquette Day 2: 06:30-07:00 hrs. Practice on the driving range 08:00 hrs. Practice round 15:00 hrs. Long drive competition Day 3: 06:30-07:00 hrs. Practice on the driving range 07:00 hrs. 1st round of stroke play competition DAY 4: 06:30-07:00 hrs. Practice on the driving range 07:00 hrs. 2nd round of stroke play 19:30 hrs. Awards dinner
Mexico Cuba Dominican Republic Belize Guatemala El Salvador Honduras Costa Rica Panama Colombia Brazil Argentina Chile Coming soon...Peru!
For further information on the fine hotels, deals, activities, and group packages mentioned in this magazine please contact Francisco BAEZA: fbaeza@ividmc.travel
Awards: The best net and gross scores in each category will receive a free week-long stay along with a companion at one of the all-inclusive Melia hotels in Cuba. The second places in each category will win trophies and golf articles. Other category awards are in store! 13
Destinations • Mexico • Cuba • Dominican Republic • Belize • Guatemala • El Salvador • Honduras • Costa Rica • Panama • Colombia • Brazil • Argentina • Chile This portal was created to assist Meeting Planners in easily locating ideal destinations, hotels, services, and activities within the group market in Latin America. On this site you will find a large collection of photographs and videos of selected hotels, tours, and activities that fit the needs of the M&I industry, as well as a RFP engine that will directly connect you with the hotel of your interest.
Easy to use Go to the menu on top of the home page and click on the destination(s) of your interest. For instance, if you want to know more about Dominican Republic for a possible group follow these steps:
From “Destinations” select Dominican Republic. Immediately you will be on the Dominican Republic home page. As with each destination, you can see 10 reasons that make each destination stand out above the rest. You can click on each photo to see even more images.
To the right side there is a submenu showing airlines, hotels, restaurants, what to see, and what to do, etc. The content of each submenu includes: property description, amenities, location (Google map), photos, videos, pdf downloads. Some properties have 360 0 photos.
You can use this site for your own presentations; feel free to use the photos and videos. From the home page menu you can easily access videos, sample programs, change the language, get connected through our social media, & contact us.
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August 2015
Dr. Travel’s: Making a Case for the Suitcase A vast variety of luggage choices exists. To find the type that suits you best, consider:
How much does the bag weigh empty?
How much will I be using it – once a week or once a year?
How much will you be packing – overnight clothes or a set of law books?
Will you be using the suitcase for business or for pleasure? Or both?
How will you carry the suitcase – by the handle, on your shoulder, or by its wheels?
Soft-sided versus hard? Soft is lighter, but easier to damage; hard is heavier, but it holds up better to baggage smashers. (If you purchase soft-sided, make sure it has reinforced corners. It’s just an observation, but handlers throw tapestried luggage harder – And don’t catch it. – Hal Rubenstein and Jim Mullen. (Taken from page 76)
James Feldman, (a.k.a. Doctor Travel) is a Certified Facilitator and internationally recognized professional motivator, author, television host, and radio personality. His company Incentive Travelers Cheque Int’l provides individual and group incentive travel awards for many Fortune 500 companies. His book “Doctor’s Travel Cure For The Common Trip” is an entertaining and invaluable travel guide whose purpose is not to tell you where to go, but rather to help you get ready for the adventure. CommuniQuest is pleased to share some of Mr. Feldman’s travel wisdom with our readers, who from time to time must deal with lines, cancellations, lost luggage, and a person in the adjacent seat making extensive use of the air sickness bag. Reprinted by permission from the Author: jfeldman@itcheque.com
THANK YOU FOR READING Like life in general, the M&I Industry seems to move at the speed of light. As a committed B2B partner, we aim to help you keep up with the latest industry news and opportunities. CommuniQuest magazine is a valuable tool that brings you the timely information and analysis that you need, with a lair for what's hot, relevant, and interesting. I wish you the best of success in your quest, whatever it may be.
Jose-Manuel GARCIA, CDS Visionary, Founder, & Master Coach IVI DMC²
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The Customer is Always Right
Raquel was great to work with. Very helpful coordinating all aspects of tours/logistics. Her response time was impeccable. Victor was awesome! We loved his willingness to jump in wherever needed. They executed everything flawlessly and exceeded our expectations! Anne Boggs and Mary Byrne Back to Back programs
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