CommuniQuest Incentive Travel Digest - Year 10 Vol. 1, 195

Vol. 1, No. 195

DIRECTORY

INDEX

Visionary, Founder and Master Coach: Jose Manuel GARCIA, CDS jmgarcia@ividmc.travel President:

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Jose Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA CIS, CMS, CCM, CES

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Keeping up with the Smurfs - unveling our new mascot

manolo@ividmc.travel Vice President of

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‘‘The White City’’ plus a close look at Yucatan’s most distinguished archeological sites

Marketing: Raquel MIJARES, CIS, DMCP rmijares@ividmc.travel

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Corporate Quality Director:

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T he c o l on ial won ders o f Lo s Cabos f it f or wa ter an d cu lt u ral e x p er i e n ces

Julia ORTIZ, CES, CMS jortiz@ividmc.travel IT Manager: Angel PEREZ

Costa Rica’s religious origins plus cultural and natural wonders

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cun.sistemas2@ividmc.travel Content & Editing:

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Omar DELGADILLO

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From its early foundation to the rise of Panama

Puerto Vallarta ‘‘The Giant Gallery’’ showcasing its cultural gems

corp.news@ividmc.travel

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Dominican Republic’s Spaniard origins

Destination offices

Cover subject: A glimpse into Latin America’s colinial era

Mexico:

Caribbean:

Central America:

South America:

IVI DMC Los Cabos

IVI DMC Cuba

IVI DMC Costa Rica

IVI DMC Colombia

Yazmin ELOSEGUI, DMCP, CIS,

Alejandro DEBASA, CMS

Jeremy ZUÑIGA

Julieth LOPEZ

CMS

Regional Managing Director

Regional Managing Director

Destination Manager

Destination Managing Director

adebasa@ividmc.travel

jzuniga@ividmc.travel

co.planning@ividmc.travel

yelosegui@ividmc.travel IVI DMC Dominican Republic IVI DMC Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit

Follow us on:

Jaime NELO, DMCP, CMS, CES Destination Managing Director

IVI DMC Panama Bidia BISSUMBHAR, CIS, CES, CMM Jose Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA, CIS, CMS, CCM, CES Destination Manager President IVI DMC Enterprises dr.planning2@ividmc.travel manolo@ividmc.travel

jnelo@ividmc.travel IVI DMC Cancun & Riviera Maya Ximena LOPEZ, CMS Marketing & Planning Director cun.planning2@ividmc.travel

© Copyright 2020. All Rights Reserved.

A WORD FROM OUR PRESIDENT. Dear reader, Latin America is known to hold some of the most distinguished beaches, vibrant cities, and towns with landscapes scattered with majestic archeological sites. Most of these dignified destinations hold a history that has shaped its local communities and the overall outlook of human society we know today. We invite you to explore the richness of the past that each destination has to offer. Plan your extraordinary event with our leading quality of service. Our accomplishments and enthusiastic attitude are what upholds up our motto, in your business, “We make YOU look GREAT�!

Sincerely,

Jose Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA, CIS, CMS, CCM, CES President IVI DMC Enterprises

Our Objective: Always aim for 100% overall customer satisfaction.

Our Vision: Associates: Keep the ideal place to work, where our multicultural staff give their best, every day.

Customers: Offer an innovative high-quality service that exceeds expectations.

Partners: Consolidate our network of loyal, honest and successful partners maximizing the return on investment to shareholders.

Planet: Inspire responsible resource management by means of our work.

Our Mission: Serve customers through our international certifications ISO 9001 and ADMC ensuring 100% customer satisfaction to incentives, corporate meetings, conventions, congresses, special events and VIP vacations, providing memorable experiences that leave a mark in each of the destinations in which we operate; maximizing the return on investment to shareholders.

Keeping up with the Smurfs!

What a month! As you know, we’ve been in quarantine for a while now, and honestly, we’re not just getting used to working from home, but we love it! Nevertheless, we can’t wait to meet again with all of our clients. We miss you a lot! The good news, is that we’re getting closer and closer to being able to travel again. How exciting!

In this edition of “Keeping Up with the Smurfs” we want to share all of our adventures from this past month. We have a reputation for being “The Smurfs” in town, this is mostly due to our turquoise uniforms. However, this month we publicly announced that our new mascot will be the Blue Bee that goes by the name of “I-Bee”. We love bees because they represent hard work and teamwork. Also, did you know that they are the most influential animal in the world?

We love the fact that Smurfs work together as a community, and each Smurf has its distinctive personality and qualities. We decided to adopt this concept, and make it of our own. So welcome to the hive! The main mascot of IVI DMC, is “I-Bee” but there are many different bees. Prepare to meet all of them.

Lastly, to have some fun and distract us from the bad news we decided to sing the song “Imagine” by John Lennon from our homes. You can check it out on our YouTube Channel. We’re not the best singers, bear with us!

Click here to watch the video!

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Colonial Cities of Baja California Sur The dazzling corners of the Colonial Cities of MĂŠxico are endless, full of magic, color, warmth, and the charming atmosphere of the people who contribute to making it unique. Discover the one-ofa-kind- places in Baja California Sur that will captivate your soul.

Loreto Bay National Park has been declared a World Heritage by UNESCO since 2005. It has 510,470.297 acres of unique marine beauty with a huge assortment of reef fishes, turtles, and whales that make Sea of Cortez so extraordinary.

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El Triunfo Discover this immeasurable village located only 45 min south of La Paz City. El Triunfo is known as a Valley ruled by a huge chimney, which is part of the remains of an important mining operation.

The fight to conquer the South Californian desert has left rich antiquity in foundations, projects, history, and culture of this state.

Ideal for the following activities: • Cultural Activities: city tour, shopping, dining around, walking around • Adventure activities such as hiking or sightseeing

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Los Barriles Over Las Palmas Bay, The beaches of Los Barriles are inundated with many different colors from parachutes and sky surf sails of the visitors who fancy this sport. It is a small city that still preserves the carefree and informal atmosphere that distinguishes Baja California Sur. Bisbee’s East Cape Offshore Tournament takes place in September and it’s considered of international stature.

Ideal for the following activities: • Cultural Activities: city tour, shopping, dining around, cooking classes, bird watching, art walk • Water Activities: snorkel, paddle boarding, surf • Adventure activities: golf, horse riding, ATV’s & UTV’s, hiking, zip lining

Santiago This place was founded in 1721 under the name of Santiago Mission. Its quaint image is accompanied by the mango, orange, and grapefruit orchards. It has too a small museum of giant fossils and a great number of marine vestiges, shells, whale bones among others.

All of this was found in a high part of the mountain, which proves that millions of years ago this region was underwater. Its jewel is the Fox Canyon which is part of the Reserve of the Biosphere: Sierra La Laguna.

Ideal for the following activities: • Water Activities: swimming in the waterfalls and small natural pools • Adventure Activities: hiking, sightseeing

San Jose Del Cabo Also Known as San Jose Del Cabo Mission, this city was founded in 1730 by the Jesuit Fathers Nicolás Tamaral and José Echeverría, it has had many settlements, the one where is currently located at, took place in 1779.

With an imposing architecture as a result of a few remodelations, it is guarded by a pair of twin towers with bell towers in a pyramidal shape inside its main church.

The Church’s Facade remarks the narrative of the murder of the Father Tamaral by the Pericues who dwelled this region.

Ideal for the following activities: • Cultural Activities: city tour, shopping, dining around, cooking classes, bird watching, art walk • Water Activities: snorkel, paddle boarding, surf • Adventure Activities: golf, horse riding, ATV’s & UTV’s, hiking, zip lining

Miraflores Miraflores also belongs to the Municipality of Los Cabos, this petite town is considered part of the East Cape. It was founded in 1700 by the French Sailors. Previously was called “old ranch” And due to the abundance of flowers and gorgeous woman, it was proclaimed: MiraFlores. Some Fruits such as the pitahaya are grown here. In July the Pitahaya Fair takes place, where the best fruits are awarded.

Ideal for the following activities: • Cultural Activities: Pitahaya Fair • Water Activities: swimming, zip lining • Adventure Activities: hiking, sightseeing, photography Page 8

Pescadero Rancho Pescadero offers a very relaxed vibe, perfectly set up facing a stunning display of nature’s exuberance. Located just an hour north of Cabo San Lucas near the artist’s enclave of Todos Santos is the ideal place to surf, pet the turtles, do some Yoga or visit Sierra Laguna Mountains for hiking and biking.

Pescadero offers you the opportunity to pamper yourself. Romantic Dinners on the beach are a must as they are the ideal seat for some of the most magical sunsets.

Ideal for the following activities: • Cultural Activities: Spa day, Yoga, dining around • Water Activities: surf, shore, and offshore fishing • Adventure Activities: camping, ATV’s, horseback riding Page 9

Loreto Loreto is a place with over 300 years of history, known as the “ Historic Capital of the Californias”. Founded in 1697, this is the oldest population of Baja California Sur. Beaches such as Juancalito, Ensenada Blanca, and Liguí are surrounded by the Mountain range: La Giganta.

For Eco-Tourism Lovers, Loreto offers plenty of activities such as kayaking, scuba diving, snorkel, hiking, sightseeing, among others. Sport Fishing is also part of this charming place. Here you can find striped and blue marlin, swordfish, mahi-mahi, and smartfish.

Ideal for the following activities: • Cultural Activities: City tour, shopping, dining around • Water Activities: kayaking, scuba diving, snorkel, sport fishing Page 10

Constitucion Located in Comondú Municipality, Constitución rose during the colonization of Santo Domingo Valley in 1949. It was originally known as “ The Cruiser” as it was located at a crossroads and around it families were settled down.

Today is a commercial axis 211 Km from La Paz City. During Winter months in Bahia Magdalena and Puerto San Carlos, visitors can witness the Gray Whales, a very unique and spectacular wonder.

Ideal for the following activities: • Cultural Activities: city tour,shopping, dining around • Water Activities : gray whale encounter/watching

Santa Rosalía Santa Rosalia portrays a significant fascination for visitors due to its French print, including some of the most desirable amenities, For its authenticity, magic, and history for over 2 decades which was declared a historic monument.

The landscape and the tales of this mining city, invite guests to indulge in the mining era that concluded in 1986. The local Bakery called “El Boleo” is still baking the bread with techniques and french recipes of the early days. The buildings will captivate your eye with its French colonial design.

Ideal for the following activities: • Cultural Activities: city tour, sghtseeing, walking and dining around.

Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit Tourists recognize Vallarta as “Giant Gallery” Foreign tourism has been astounded by the amount of tremendous artistic murals that lie on several walls of buildings in Puerto Vallarta’s downtown, and more and more of these are painted by their intrepid and skilled authors. From abstract art to symbolic drawings; street painting, Mexican scenes, faces, landscapes, and messages with letters. In addition to tiles depicting different reliefs, Puerto Vallarta has long been considered a huge mural.

Recently, the Italian artist Jupiter Fab painted a large mural on Morelos Street, in the elementary school November 20, depicting two children. On that same road, there are a great number of small, medium, and large paintings that tourists love to stop and take photos of. Likewise, the park of tiles created by Natasha Moraga is an example of a unique site full of art that every visitor appreciates of this destination. Not to mention the numerous art galleries with attractive facades and windows full of endemic works of the region and brought from other places, which make Puerto Vallarta an open and giant museum of colors and more than 100 original compositions only in the area of ​​the Historic Center and the Romantic Zone.

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El Tuito El Tuito is a small and picturesque town 46 kilometers south of downtown Puerto Vallarta. The name, El Tuito, comes from the pre-Hispanic Nahuatl language and means “small beautiful valley�, and it still is. A small hidden and fresh town, clean and quiet for those who want to unwind and hit a pause on stress and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The main square is traditional in Mexican settlements, located in the heart of the town, and offers several restaurants with quality local dishes. The freshly handmade corn tortillas are definitely a must. Everything you want to see in this town is less than two blocks from the Plaza de Armas. A great place to just relax in the outdoors, locals, and traditional architecture.

Mascota The municipality of Mascota is located on the plateau of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range, the municipality has 40 small villages, among which Mascota is the largest, it is a region of beautiful landscapes that contrast valleys, mountains, forests, and rivers. People are kind, cheerful, and proud of their history. When you enter Mascota, you immediately notice that it is a beautiful and picturesque town, as if you had traveled to the quiet and peaceful past and the air is colder. It is a town that invites you to rest and relax. It has cobblestone streets traditional style flanked by colonial-style houses.

Take advantage of enjoying the local cuisine, order a coffee pot, eat some homemade cookies, and some of the countless local sweets, as well as different rompopes (a bit like eggnog) with vanilla flavors, nut, and with fruits of the season. And how about a close encounter with a horse of Raicilla?

San Sebastian Del Oeste San Sebastian´s remote setting has made it one of Mexico´s last remaining hidden gems.

Once a thriving mining community, this tiny mountain enclave not far from Puerto Vallarta, is a step back in time. Learn all about the history, culture, and natural beauty surrounding the picturesque community all brought to life by passionate and professional guides. This community is formed mainly by old farms and century-old houses that have aged gracefully along with the abandoned mines and the surrounding fields, full of a silent and valuable legacy of tradition and history. San SebastiĂĄn came to have more than 20 thousand inhabitants, living in a prosperous and self-sustaining environment, a product of its gold and silver mines. There are currently less than 6,000 inhabitants, which gives it an aura of quiet town that still retains its past airs of grandeur.

Merida Colonial City The White City Especially prosperous cities were created around Mexico City in colonial times, which stood out among the others and that have prevailed with their cobbled streets, monumental buildings, and houses with balconies, doors, and windows of Spanish cut almost intact. Some of them were born from the manors in which the land was distributed and occupied the same location or sites very close to the conquered indigenous cities. It is the case Oaxaca (1521), Puebla (1531), Villa Real, today San Cristóbal de las Casas, (1528), Querétaro (1532), Pátzcuaro (1534), Valladolid, today Morelia, (1541) and Merida (1542).

Beautiful palaces and mansions, imposing castles and fortresses, great temples, and religious buildings, in a harmonious set of historic houses of a colorful chromaticism. These are the characteristics of the beautiful city of Merida known as the White City. It is said that when the first Spanish conquerors arrived in this Mayan city called T’ho (although it was also known as Ichcaansihó), they were so impressed and enchanted by their temples and shrines, that in the sunlight they were reminded of the lime buildings located in Spain’s Merida town, therefore they decided to baptize this new territory with the same name.

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The title of The White City has another variation known as La Blanca Merida (The White Merida) which is also common to hear among locals and tourists when visiting this destination. The origin of such a peculiar nickname is not certain as there are several versions of its history.

One of the versions states that it was named that thanks to the whites that predominates in the buildings built by the Spaniards over the ruins of the Mayan temples.

There is also a popular belief that the reason for this title is related to the modest and simple architecture of the city in which it is common to use whitish materials such as limestone — typical of the region — which make it stand out even more with the sun’s rays. In any case, times have changed and beyond its name, Merida is a city deserving title of the “White City” as it has become one of the best destinations not only for vacation but also to reside. The Yucatecan capital is a symbol of culture, traditions, and history wherever it is seen.

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Near the city of Merida there are also several beautiful places to visit, among which are: The ‘Puuc route’ is a journey through splendid Mayan ruins that are worth spending some time. Uxmal is the main archaeological center, and a visit is mandatory (its huge pyramid is striking); Kabah, Labna also has very remarkable remains, with ornaments of extraordinary finesse. The caves of Loltún are impressive due to the enormous size of their spaces.

The convents route takes a tour of colonialera churches, full of interest. Its magnificent Henequeneras haciendas, one of which the one of Yaxcopoil, allows guests to look at what was a very powerful industry at the end of the 19th century based on the cultivation and manipulation of henequen (the so-called green gold).

Chichen Itza is a collection of Mayan ruins, recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, located in the Mexican peninsula of Yucatan. “El Castillo� dominates the old city of 6.5 km, which had its splendor from 600 AD. C. until the thirteenth century. Graphical stone carvings are still preserved in structures such as the ball court, the temple of the warriors, and the platform of the skulls.

At night, light and sound shows illuminate the sophisticated geometry of the buildings.

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Valladolid The East Side Pearl, Mexico´s Magic Town Set on the east side of Yucatan, Valladolid was the scenery of rebellions and fights between conquistadors and conquered, the submission of the Mayas from the east of Yucatan, and the rebellions who belong to a nephew of the conquistador called Francisco de Montejo. He established his camping around the natural lagoon named by locals as Chouac-Ha (large-water). The Spaniard thought it was the best place to build and this place became the operation station to present the people and control the capital of Zacihual which means (White Hawk) as it symbolized the warlike cities of the Zaci community.

This place was an important political and religious center were the high lineage people lived, to persuade them was the most difficult task for the Spaniard soldiers, however, on May 23, 1543, the captain Don Francisco de Montejo (the nephew) finished the task and founded the Villa named Valladolid, in honor of the Castilian City with the same name.

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On May 28, 1543, they changed the township due to the infertile grounds, the humid climate, and the fact that many of the residents got sick. They decided to move to the ruins of the Zaci,(White Hawk) Mayan city. The White Hawk can be seen today on the city shield.

Valladolid received the classification of “City” on December 13, 1923.

Two monumental historic events for Mexico occurred, The Castas War in 1847 and the first spark of the Mexican Revolution in 1910.

Top sights in Valladolid • Francisco Cantón Rosado, is the name of the main park and plaza at this beautiful city, surrounded by green trees, the white benches on the plaza and the church adjacent, the perfect place to learn about the local culture. Here visitors can find local shops where they can buy hammocks, typical hand-embroidered clothing, leather, and art & craft items with a peculiar local flavor that will take you back in time.

• Frailes street is the main area very notorious due to the restored colonial buildings the past and present can be felt.

• Constructed in 1552 a genuine colonial jewelry is the Convento de San Bernardino, with soft pink walls, this place was used as a fort to protect themselves from the threats of some Mayan rebels. Behind the convent, there’s a natural cenote (sinkhole) where locals and visitors enjoy the amazing transparent freshwater.

• Another attraction in Valladolid is the famous local Mercado, where the local agricultures from the state come to sell their products, in addition to the fresh vegetables there’s also a great diversity of art & craft, flowers, cloth, shoes. etc.

• Casa de Los Venados is a private museum, not only is it a beautiful house but it has a great collection of Mexican popular art.

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Izamal The three-culture magic city

Located between Chichen-Itza and Merida, only 45 min to both locations. This town is was founded in 550 A.C. by the Itzaes, who set themselves on the northern plains of the Yucatan peninsula and who highlighted their buildings and Sacbé roads (white roads constructed by the ancient Mayan). The first Izamal villages were inhabited by religious, political, and economically powered people from all over the Mayan territory.

One influential person from Itzamná or Zamnáe of mythical origin and big wisdom was the instructor and priest of the Mayans, his name signifies” Dew from the sky”, and in his honor, this place has received his name.

Before the arrival of the Spaniards, this territory was surrounded with covered pyramids, a reason why is known as the Hill City and also as the city of the three cultures, due to the total harmony that combines traits of their prehispanic past, the colonial period and the contemporary period.

Izamal was abandoned at the end of the period known as postclassic (Mexican period) in the XV century for unknown reasons. When the Spaniards arrived the place was practically empty.

Due to the importance of the city, the conquistadors were motivated to construct a well set Franciscan Convent, using the biggest five pyramids as material.

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The bishop of Yucatan fraile Franciscano Diego de Landa lived in this city by 1575 and was the one who lead the construction on the convent and brought the image of the Virgin Inmaculada Concepción, our lady of Yucatán, all the way from Guatemala.

The surrounding areas of Izamal were founded with rancher haciendas which on the Independence of Mexico became part of the group of haciendas that integrated the henequen agroindustry, active for one and half centuries.

After the Yucatan independence and after the incorporation to the rest of the Mexican Republic, Izamal was declared a Village in 1823.

On December 4th, 1841 got the title of a city, this was kept until August 13, 1923, year when the city categories were abolished and the categories of city and The Convent village were upgraded to pueblo until the 1st of DeThis is a structure that was built over an an- cember of 1981, a time when the title of City was retique Mayan pyramid. After the Spaniards covered until today. invasion, these temples were rebuilt. The convent construction was finished in 1561 In 2001, Izamal was declared the first Magic City of which features an outdoors Atrium, the Mexico for its historic transcendence, beauty, and vilargest in the world. A small museum be- brant culture. hind the church that highlights the history of the building and the memorable visit of The pyramid of Kinich Kak Moo has a total of 5 areas with archeological remains of other pyramids. It is the Pope Juan Pablo II from 1993. largest of the area that has access to visitors. When you visit the Mayan vestiges which by the way this one is considered the largest of the Yucatan Peninsula. The first pyramid it’s easy to climb, however, the second is a little risky due to lack of security. Therefore people must be careful when climbing the site. The archeological site is open to the public daily from 08:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Overall Izamal is a small town and the best way to explore it is recommended by bicycle so you can easily move around the area. You will be able to taste and delight your palate with the typical food recipes from Yucatan at a local restaurant.

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Costa Rica When choosing Costa Rica, you can be sure that you have selected a destination with experience in organizing, planning, marketing, and successfully managing any event to make it extraordinary.

Costa Rica has an extension of 51,100.00 square kilometers, conformed by 7 provinces: San José — its capital city — Alajuela, Heredia, Cartago, Guanacaste, Puntarenas, and Limon. Cartago is one of the seven provinces of Costa Rica, it is located in the center of the country, without access to the coasts.

This province of Costa Rica, stands out for its agricultural culture and colonial tradition, corresponding to the old headquarters of the capital of Costa Rica until 1823 when it was transferred to the city of San José.

Its natural settings are characterized by agricultural valleys and large mountain peaks crossed by the Central Mountain Range and the Talamanca Mountain Range. Some of the highest peaks in the country are located in this province, such as the Irazú Volcano and Chirripó Peak - the highest point in the country with 3,820 m / 12532.81 ft above sea level.

The main tourist attraction in this province is related to its colonial past in the city of Cartago, with numerous historical buildings; as to its natural wonders. Topping the list of Historical buildings, we find The Basilica Our Lady of Los Angeles, an Architectural jewel for Costa Ricans.

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Although it has been a long time, the city has never lost its appeal, attracting many visitors who are constantly amazed by its various attractions. From the beach to the oldest church in Costa Rica, its hidden roads and common roads reveal wonderful surprises that are too remarkable to ignore. Nicoya is the oldest colonial city in Costa Rica.

Its parish church was built in 1522.

Another very important colonial destination that identifies Costa Rica is the ruins of Cartago, the name by which it names the vestiges of the unfinished parish temple of Santiago Apóstol, in the city of Cartago.

The so-called “ruins of the Parish” or ruins of Cartago are located east of the city’s Plaza Mayor. They are constituted by the walls and staircases of a Romanesque-style temple, whose construction began in the second half of the 19th century and was interrupted as a result of the Santa Monica earthquake (May 4, 1910) and two other earthquakes, when the building was already in the process of being completed. Actually, it is not a question of ruins in the historical sense, but of an interrupted construction, but they constitute a site of great interest for the visitors and give a lot of character to the city.

A des ti nati on w i th a proven trac k r ecord Whether an incentive activity or a conference of senior executives, our expert staff in IVI DMC Costa Rica will execute a world-class event for you.

There are so many places worth visiting in Costa Rica that everyone could return year after year and each time have a completely different experience. Most visitors go to places like Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, Santa Teresa, Arenal, Monteverde, and San José. However, there are many underrated and overlooked towns and cities to incorporate into future Costa Rican adventures.

There is really no excuse to visit the country of Costa Rica, but when you add a bit of colonial wonder it becomes a fact. No other destination in Costa Rica deserves a visit from historically inclined people like Nicoya, the first to be colonized by the Spanish.

Before the founding of Nicoya, the Chorotega tribe had a settlement in this place. The natives welcomed the Spaniards with gifts of gold. Gil Gonzales Dávila (captain and explorer of Spanish conquest) was very impressed and named the place after the native leader, Nicoya. In the native language, Nicoya means “water on both sides.” This is related to the Gulf of Nicoya and the Pacific Ocean which bathe its impressive coasts.

Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels This Catholic temple was built between 1912 and 1930, according to the design of the architect Mr. Luis Llach, with facades of the engineer Mr. Fabio Garnier. This is one of the few examples of architecture with Byzantine elements that has an outstanding urban scale.

The altar where Our Lady of the Angels remains to this day was built in 1777 with the contribution of the inhabitants, many of whom owned cocoa farms at that time. The devotion to the Virgin of Los Angeles is the most important characteristic of the Costa Rican religious fervor.

The Basilica, a destination of mass pilgrimage nationwide is where a significant number of Costa Ricans gather on August 1st every year in what is called a ‘’Romería’’ or pilgrimage in gratitude or request of favor. It is calculated that each year the Basilica receives between one and two million visitors, this pilgrimage consists of walking from where one lives, to the Basilica.

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Guayabo National Monument The Guayabo National Monument is located to the northwest of the city of Turrialba, in the District of Santa Teresita in the canton of Turrialba, province of Cartago. Approximately 49.42 acres from the protected area comprise the archaeological site, which consists of a set of preHispanic architectural structures made of stone - river boulders -, which were built in a period of time between 1000 BC and 1400 after Christ; for a prolonged occupation of approximately 2400 years.

Within its 575.75 acres, this rich natural area protects a remnant of an evergreen pre-montane rain forest, in an altitude range between 990 and 1,300 meters above sea level and the average annual temperature reaches 24 ºC. The Guayabo National Monument holds the designation of World Heritage of Civil Engineering, a designation granted by the American Association of Civil Engineers, one of the most prestigious entities in the world in this field. This designation recognizes the achievements and engineering techniques carried out by the first inhabitants of the Guayabo National Monument and which have endured through time.

Flora and fauna: The vegetation that surrounds the archaeological area is characteristic of a premontane rainforest, dense and evergreen foliage. Forest species abound such as caragra, magnolia, cantarillo, fig, quizarrá, cirrí, burío, and cedar maría, covered by a large number of epiphytic plants such as bromeliads and orchids.

Among the fauna, birds such as toucans, orioles, trogons, woodpeckers, momotos, piapias, yigüirros, and chachalacas stand out. This also includes mammals such as armadillos, rabbits, coyote, sloths, tolomucos, hammers, squirrels, and coatis. Snakes, frogs, lizards, and butterflies are also frequent.

PANAMA Founded on August 15, 1519, by Pedro Arias DĂĄvila. The city received the title as such in 1521, granted by King Carlos I of Spain, and was essentially destroyed by the English privateer Henry Morgan on January 28, 1671.

The rise of this city was due to the passage of wealth and merchandise from South America to Spain and vice versa. Most of its inhabitants devoted themselves to commerce. The historical complex, which covers 28.5 hectares 20 kilometers east of the current Panamanian capital, is formed by the Cathedral Tower, the King’s Bridge, the ruins of its convents, hospitals, houses and cobblestone streets.

Casco Viejo This is the name given to the site where Panama City was relocated in 1673. This city, drawn in a reticular way to the four cardinal points, was characterized by the axiality of its streets and posthumous, which earned it to be considered a classic model of the Indian city.

It is located on a small peninsula, surrounded by a mantle of rocky reefs, within the current corregimiento of San Felipe. In 1997, the Old Town of Panama was included in the list of Unesco World Heritage Sites.

Portobello Portobelo is a natural port and a town located in the Republic of Panama. One of the most important populations of America during the colonial era and the port through which most of the wealth that Spain boarded to Europe from the conquest of present-day South America passed. Portobelo is located on the north coast of the Isthmus of Panama, about 50 km northeast of Colรณn (city). It limits to the north with the Caribbean Sea, to the south with the province of Panama, to the east with the district of Santa Isabel and to the west with the City of Colon.

Between the 16th and 18th centuries, Portobelo was one of the most important Gold & Silver export ports in Nueva Granada and one of the exit ports of the Fleet of the Indies. The gold, coming mainly from Peru, was transported in mules through the Camino de Cruces, in Panama, continuing along the Chagres River by small boats, until it reached Portobelo, where it was shipped to Spain.

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Nata de los Caballeros The Spaniards were the first colonizers and conquerors of Nata and it was up to Don Gonzalo de Badajoz to arrive in this region in 1515, after having obtained a large amount of gold from Chief Paris. He longed for the attack of Cacique, newly suffering a strong defeat that forced him to leave what was acquired by the region of Cacique Anatá, Natá or Natán, appreciating the great fertility and wealth of the region bathed by the Rio Grande and Río Chico.

Therefore, it was no accident that Natá was chosen by Espinosa to articulate from that place the conquest of other domains, particularly that of the brave chieftain Urracá. After being founded

by Pedro Arias Dávila on May 20, 1522, Natá held the title of Mayor’s Office, and its territorial extension covered from what is now Chame to the limits with the province of Veraguas. Penonomé, today head of the province of Coclé, like other neighboring towns such as Olá, Antón, were under the jurisdiction of Natá for many years. In the colonial era, Natá received the arrival of 100 Spanish knights who were sent by direct orders of Carlos V, King of Spain.

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Domi n ca n Repu b li c Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone was declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This Colonial City was founded in 1496 by Bartholomew Columbus, brother of Christopher Columbus, as the capital of the first Spanish colony in the New World. It includes more than 300 historical sites as well as various monuments of cultural and historical character.

The original city was located on the east bank of the Ozama River and was named Nueva Isabela in honor of Queen Isabella I of Spain. In 1502, Governor Nicolas de Ovando transferred the institutions to the west bank and provided the city with a grid pattern from the Plaza Mayor. The city was the headquarters for the first institutions in the Americas such as the first university, cathedral, castle, monastery, and fortress. The Dominican Independence was proclaimed in 1844 and maintained its independence except for a short Spanish occupation from 1861 to 1865 and occupation by the United States from 1916 to 1924.

Santo Domingo offers a perfect balance of old-world charm and modern culture. Some of the most visited landmarks are: • Cathedral Santa Maria la Menor, the first Cathedral of the Americas; • Alcázar de Colón, the first castle or royal residence in the Americas; • Altar of the Nation, tombs of the founding fathers (Francisco de Rosario, Juan Pablo Duarte y Matías Ramón Mella; • Gate de la Misericordia • Fortaleza Ozama, oldest fortress in America; • Calle Las Damas, oldest street of the Americas; • Calle Conde; • Parque Colón (Columbus Park) • Parque Independencia (Independence Park) • Plaza España Page 34

What our client’s have to say.

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Efren was always very responsive and the coordination of the group was done with ease. The initial quote was very easy to understand and the budget presented accurately. Alberto and Jose Luis did an excellent work! They were always very responsive, on time and professional. Based on my experience this week, I highly recommended the company and will be in contact for future trips.

Jon Hersh |​Owner

Excellent Service.Yazmin, Marla & Oscar FABULOUS! Judy Byrne |VIP Corporate Travel Specialist

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Extra kudos to Ximena for taking my call late Tuesday night when my client at Nizuc wanted to go out into town to see Coco Bongo. Thankfully, the client couldn’t get through dinner on time at Nizuc to make it for the 10 p.m. show, so we didn’t need to follow through but Ximena was ready to pull the trigger for me. Muchas Gracias for the extra special service late that night!

Michael A Butler |Director

Doctor Travel’s cure for the common trip Make travel a priority If traveling and discovering new destinations is your passion, then why not make it a priority? Instead of purchasing new designer shoes and/or expensive toys, maybe you can allocate your savings towards something that will help generate lasting memories.

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Why advertise with Communiquest Incentive Travel digest?

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

Find us in over 41 destinations throughout: • Mexico • Cuba • Dominican Republic • Costa Rica & • Panama • Colombia

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CONTACT:

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”.

IVI DMC² Corporate office: Ave. Acanceh #1-01, SM 15 Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mx Phone: +52 (998) 287-1700 Email:ivicorp@ividmc. travel

Sincerely,

For further information on the finest hotels, deals, activities, and group packages mentioned in this travel digest, please contact:

José-Manuel GARCÍA, CDS Visionary, Founder and Master Coach

Raquel MIJARES rmijares@ividmc.travel

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OUR CREDO. (A dynasty with a soul) • We promise to be those well-dressed people in white and turquoise blue uniforms, we are so popular that many people recognize us as blue bees and bumblebees.

• We are as essential as bees to this planet and act as an extension of your own business, providing our expertise, and resourcefulness. We are also fun and beautiful or handsome (not necessarily in that order).

• We can fly faster than a “space rocket”, and be in two or three different honeycombs at once, and are committed to doing everything legally and personalized for our clients.

• You can find us flying back and forth in airports, historical and archaeological sites, luxury resorts, charming hotels, golf courses, picturesque beaches, and even the best restaurants in the city.

• “We enjoy teamwork just like bees because it is fun and our passion is having fun while doing our job.” We can do the impossible immediately: miracles may take a little longer.

• Since 1986, we have always worked passionately and devotedly with the sole mission of making our clients look GREAT!

By Jose-Manuel GARCIA Visionary, Founder & Influencer Marketing CORPORATE OFFICE José Manuel (Manolo) GARCÍA, CIS, CMS, CCM, CES President of IVI DMC Enterprises manolo@ividmc.travel Calle Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez Lote 19, Mza 20, SM 308 Alfredo V. Bonfil Cancun, Q. Roo 77560 Mexico Tel. +52 (998) 2871700 Page 39