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Year 8 Vol. 1, Issue 110 Visionary, Founder, & Master Coach
Jose-Manuel GARCIA, CDS jmgarcia@ividmc.travel
President
Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA, CIS manolo@ividmc.travel
General Comptroller Corporate Marketing and Business Director Corporate Quality Director
Electronic Publishing
Trinidad SANCHEZ tsanchez@ividmc.travel Francisco BAEZA fbaeza@ividmc.travel Julia ORTIZ jortiz@ividmc.travel
Managing Director —MyDay Travel
Corporate Headquarters:
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Atole: A Traditional Wintery Drink to Keep You Warm
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Cover Subject:
Special Edition: Mexico City and Central Mexico
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MyDay Travel Lisbon, Portugal
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Omar GALLEGOS ivicorp@ividmc.travel
Quick Hits: Pueblo Mágico—Sayulita Friends of the Maya
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Jorge OROZCO, DMCP jorozco@myday.travel
DQuest Travel
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Av. Acanceh 1-01, SM 15 Cancun, Q. Roo, 77500 Mex. Ph. +52 (998) 287-1700
Dr. Travel’s Travel Tip: Consider the Options
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Alejandro PECH apech@ividmc.travel
Content and Editing
Contents:
Destination Offices: Mexico
Caribbean
Central America
South America
IVI DMC² Cancun & Riviera Maya Raquel MIJARES, CIS Marketing, Business & Planning Director rmijares@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Dominican Republic Genaro ALMONTE, CIS Regional Managing Director galmonte@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, & Honduras Jorge LAZO Regional Managing Director jlazo@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Colombia Carolina CALDERON Regional Managing Director ccalderon@ividmc.travel
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 & Argentina Andrea MAJELA Regional Managing Director amajela@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Panama Ligia VARGAS Regional Managing Director lvargas@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Chile Kenneth WELCH Regional Managing Director kwelch@ividmc.travel
IVI DMC² Los Cabos Mario FOSTER Destination Managing Director mfoster@ividmc.travel
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© Copyright 2015. All Rights Reserved. 2
December 2015
Atole: A Traditional Wintery Drink to Keep You Warm This popular and delicious drink owes its name to the Nahuatl (a language spoken by the Aztecs): Ātolli, meaning cornmeal beverage, from diminutive of ātl, water. In Mexico, the drink typically includes masa (corn hominy flour), water, piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar), cinnamon, vanilla and optional chocolate or fruit. The mixture is blended and heated before serving. Atole is often made by toasting masa on a comal (griddle), then adding water that was boiled with cinnamon sticks. The resulting blends vary in texture, ranging from a porridge to a very thin liquid consistency. Atole can also be prepared with rice, flour, or oatmeal in place of masa. In northern Mexico, there is also a variation using pinole (sweetened toasted corn meal). It is very common during breakfast and dinnertime at any time of year. And it is usually sold as street food! In places such as South Texas and Northern Mexico, this marvelous drink is a traditional comfort food. In New Mexico, blue corn atole is finely ground cornmeal toasted for cooking, consumed as a grainy porridge-style drink served warm, usually sweetened with sugar and/or thinned with milk. It is usually served at breakfast like cream of wheat or oatmeal. It is said that elders would drink atole because it gave them energy and if a mother is nursing it gives her more milk. Have we arisen your curiosity already? Try it at the next chance you have.
Message From Headquarters
only work with suppliers that meet our criteria in order to render an out-of-the-ordinary service.
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As President of IVI DMC , 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 30 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’ 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
Sincerely, Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA, CIS President
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Cover Topic
Special Edition: Mexico City and Central Mexico
A Superb Destination for Meetings & Events Mexico City rests 7,350 ft (2,240 m) above the sea level in the valley of the Anahuac between two mountain chains and two famous volcanoes: The IztaccĂhuatl, 17,345 ft high (5,272 m), and the PopocatĂŠpetl 17,880 ft high (5,349 m) Both offer unique views and are among the most beautiful sights of the world. Besides Mexico City, there are other colonial cities; they were built after the conquest; they all combine exquisite architecture with a modern touch. Declared World Heritage by UNESCO, Guanajuato, is known for its picturesque narrow streets and underground tunnels that cross the city; here is where the Festival Internacional Cervantino is celebrated every year. San Miguel de Allende, a colonial city full of churches and parishes, dating from the viceroyalty era. Taxco is famous for its typical red tile roofs, cobblestone streets, its silver mines and handmade jewelry. The city of Puebla is known for its cathedral of Los Angeles and for Cholula, a picturesque town full of parishes and archaeological sites - both sites surrounded by beautiful volcanoes. Guadalajara, known affectionately as the pearl of the west, is the birthplace of tequila and mariachis; it is also known for its rich cuisine and its beautiful architecture and handcrafts. Queretaro, home of the independence of Mexico, also known for its aqueduct, its architecture and good quality of life. And Cuernavaca, also known as the city of eternal spring, famous for having the ideal temperature all year long. Read on to learn more about recent developments that make these gorgeous places even more attractive!
Mexico City and Central Mexico 4
Mexico City and Central Mexico
December 2015
Mexico’s Grand Prix Named Formula 1's "Best Event of the Year" The Mexican Grand Prix, which was held on Nov. 1, has been named the "Best Event of the Year" by the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile, or FIA, the Mexican Sports Organization, or OMDAI, said Wednesday. The 2016 F1 season will be the 67th edition of the prestigious Formula One World Championship, a motor racing championship for F1 cars which is recognized by this sport's governing body, the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), as the highest class of competition for open-wheel racing cars.
Be an Eye-Witness! Mexico City officials considered the event a huge success since it boosted hotel occupancy in the capital to nearly 100 percent. The event is fully confirmed for Mexico City next year again, so we encourage you to start making arrangements ahead of time, right now if possible, so you can secure better prices and seats. Please contact IVI DMC² Mexico City & Central Mexico for ground transfers, restaurant reservations, and more!
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Connectivity & Jaguars? Promoting Sustainability The construction of the new toll road that will connect Guadalajara, the second largest city in Mexico, and Puerto Vallarta is programmed to be ready by 2016. This four-lane road will ease up the ground transportation from and to important cities of Mexico, such as Guadalajara, Tepic, Guanajuato, Queretaro and, of course, Mexico City. Now it will be easier to arrange group programs starting in central Mexico to this amazing destination! Additionally, a 0.8-mile long tunnel is being constructed so there will be no negative impact to the habitat of the local jaguars. This is progress combined with respect to mother nature!
Intercontinental Hotels Group & Hilton Hotels Bet Big for Mexico in 2016 Two of the major and most important international hotel chains, Hilton Hotels and Intercontinental Hotels Group, plan to open just in 2016 around 65 properties together with their various brands. They were prompted to invest due to the country’s climate of stability and a boom in the automotive industry and the oil sector. Both hotel chains will focus their growth in cities with a lot of potential and that are already receiving important private investments such as: Celaya, Irapuato, Salamanca, Puebla, Veracruz, Merida, Campeche, Orizaba, Coatzacoalcos, Hermosillo, Guadalajara, San Miguel de Allende, Santa Fe (Mexico City), Xalapa, Aguascalientes, Monterrey, Queretaro, Puebla, and Toluca. Among beach destinations that will benefit are Huatulco & Puerto Vallarta.
Mexico City South and Central America: Mexico Chile 6
December 2015
Spotlight Destination: Lisbon - Portugal Due to the Atlantic Ocean influence, Lisbon has a pleasant weather all year. The temperature during summer invites to walk through the shore or spend the evening in one of the many bars in the terraces all over the city. Clear sky is a constant feature in Lisbon, even during Autumn and Winter when temperature tends to go down. Gastronomy in Lisbon is influenced for its proximity to the ocean. Lisboeta specialties are Bacalhau Pataniscas and Preixinhos da Horta. People say Portuguese people, and specially the Lisboetas have 365 different ways to prepare the cod, one different recipe for each day of the year.
Fun Facts:
United States of America does not have an official language
Spain name comes from the word Ispania, which means land of rabbits
Canary Islands derives from the latin Insula Canaria, which means “Island of the dogs”
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Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit, Mexico Sayulita has been named as a Pueblo Magico. Tourism potential here is thus on the rise.
Advertise in CommuniQuest Magazine Advertising and promotional opportunities are now available in CommuniQuest magazine. Sponsorship placement opportunities are limited and are reserved on a “first come, first served” basis. We invite you to advertise in our vastly distributed magazine which is already available to over ten thousand avid readers. These readers are dedicated members, stakeholders, and fine suppliers. The magazine is an inviting 'cover to cover' read, ensuring an eye-catching and successful advertising. Click here to receive more information.
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
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December 2015
Women’s Empowerment Program Together with Universidad Anahuac Cancún, our foundation sponsored hardworking women from a Mayan community to display and sell their handcrafts. Giving back to the community is certainly rewarding!
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. Find us in over 40 destinations throughout:
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
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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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December 2015
Dr. Travel Prescribes: Get Me to the Airport on Time!
When you’re trying to decide between taking a cab or a shuttle, ask yourself “How many people are traveling?” If you’re the only one, the shuttle is more cost-effective. Make sure you know in advance how many stops the shuttle will make, though. If the shuttle makes frequent stops, opt, instead, for a cab.
Weigh your time and cost in taking a bus, train, or shared van service as opposed to taking a taxi. Sometimes the extra work or rest time gained by taking a cab far exceeds the cost. (Taken from page 118)
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
The Customer is Always Right
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.
My requests were understood and handled perfectly, very detailed. Last minute major change and the staff handled everything beautifully and professionally. - Laurie Malcom
Jose-Manuel GARCIA, CDS Visionary, Founder, & Master Coach
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