1
Message From Headquarters Dear reader, Get your passport ready and pack your suitcase… Once you finish reading this issue you’ll be running out the door! In this issue we feature seasonal activities that will delight your senses and will motivate you to want to travel to one of our many marvelous destinations. A trend we’ve seen lately is that many attendees of incentive groups want to experiment something new and exciting. Due to that fact, thinking outside the box is a constant feature here at IVI DMC2 and that motivates us to be extra creative and innovative. A famous quote by Sir Richard Burton says: “The gladdest moment in human life, me thinks, is a departure into unknown lands.” And we agree with him. Doing something and exciting in new surroundings along with your group participants, will not only strengthen each other’s bonds but it will also enrich your lives because of having achieved unique milestones. Allow the contents of this issue to enamor your senses. Sincerely, Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA, CIS President
About Us Our Vision: Associates: Preserve our company as the best place to work, so that our multicultural staff can thrive professionally and thus always perform their best. Customers: To offer an innovative high-quality service that exceeds all expectations. Partners: To continually consolidate our network of honest and successful partners. Revenue: To maximize the investment of our shareholders & help them gain good dividends. Planet: By means of our hard work instill in others the responsible management of resources.
Our Mission: To serve our customers supported on international certifications ISO 9001 and ADMC, thus ensuring 100% satisfaction to groups, conventions, incentives and special events customers. We create memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression on attendees visiting each and every one of the destinations in which we operate.
Our Objective: Always aim for 100 % overall customer satisfaction.
2
Year 9 Vol. 1, Issue 113 Visionary, Founder, Jose-Manuel GARCIA, CDS & Master Coach jmgarcia@ividmc.travel
Contents:
Page
Cover Subject
President Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA, CIS manolo@ividmc.travel
Seasonal Activities
General Comptroller Trinidad SANCHEZ tsanchez@ividmc.travel Corporate Marketing and Francisco BAEZA Business Director 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 Managing Director Jorge OROZCO, DMCP —MyDay Travel jorozco@myday.travel Corporate Headquarters: Av. Acanceh 1-01, SM 15 Cancun, Q. Roo, 77500 Mex. Ph. +52 (998) 287-1700 www.ividmc.travel
4-12
Cancun Puerto Vallarta Dominican Republic Costa Rica Panama Brazil
Brazil Olympics June 2016
13
Friends of the Maya Foundation
14
Advertise with CommuniQuest
15
The Customer’s Always Right
15
Let’s Cook—Sweet Potato Fries
16
Dr. Travel’s Travel Tip: On a Long Journey Even a Straw Weighs Heavy
17
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
Follow us on...
© Copyright 2016. All Rights Reserved. 3
Cover Topic:
Seasonal Activities
Our DMC experts have compiled these array of seasonal activities that have in mind the avid traveler in search of new and exciting trends. Please read on and get acquainted with our trendy tours & events.
Cancun & Riviera Maya Learning About Nature from Very Special Visitors Shark or Whale? Yes, we are talking about the Whale Shark. In fact, it is a shark, but is toothless and the size of a whale. They pass just off the shores of Cancun from mid-May to mid-September. June, July, and August are the most popular months for this SWIM WITH WHALE SHARKS activity. The reason for their visit is that the warm and plankton-teeming waters around the Yucatan Peninsula are part of their migratory route. The nearby island of Holbox especially bubbles forth with whale sharks.
Other distinguished visitors are the SAILFISH who visit near Isla Mujeres. Because of their migratory behaviour, this incredible species migrates to this area and stay here from January to August. Since it is a sport practice, once they are caught, they are returned back to the sea. Though some fish are seasonal, sport fishing in Cancun is successful all year. There are others who visit us for a completely different reason. Between the months of September and October and when there is a full moon, the BLUE CRABS start their migration from the mangrove forests of the NichuptĂŠ Lagoon towards the sea, thus crossing the hotel strip in order to lay their eggs. Tourists and locals alike enjoy helping them reach their destination safely.
4
Cancun
Cancun
February 2016
Another exciting activity is SWIMMING WITH BULL SHARKS. They permanently live here, in deep waters. From the end of November to March, the female sharks come to shallow, fresh waters in order to give birth; this way the baby sharks thrive in a safe environment in order to grow big enough before going to sea.
Last, but not least, witnessing the NESTING OF THE SEA TURTLES, and helping baby turtles to reach the sea safe and sound is very fulfilling. Every night, between April - October, at sunset, sea turtles reach Mexican beaches. They lay about 100-150 eggs, unfortunately only 1 out of 1000 will reach adulthood.
For the turtle release, about seven in the evening, when no longer in danger of being eaten by predator birds flying over the sea, those responsible for the sea turtles hatching, give the relevant instructions to the participants, especially children, who name the turtles before releasing them in the sand on the count of three. It is exciting to see the baby turtles strongly waddle away toward the sea. An experience for adults and children that will not be wiped out of your memory.
JUST OUT OF CURIOSITY Whale Shark: The largest fish in the world! Some measure up to 50 ft. Bull Shark: It is the only shark that can live in fresh water. Sea turtles: Return to their natal homing for nesting.
More than a trip, unique experiences!
5
Cover Topic (continued‌)
Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit Bubbles Forth with Activities and Festivals All Year Round! All year round, Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit host many, many festivals and shows that attract visitors from all over the world with all kinds of interests! Just to mention a few recent events: American Express VI Punta Mita Gourmet & Golf Classic
January 28-31, 2016 XII International Migratory Bird Festival in San Blas January 24-31, 2016 Festival Sayulita: Cinema, Music, Drink & Surf January 27-31, 2016 Please contact your IVI DMC² Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit representative and inquire about more festivals, special events, patronal feasts, etc. taking place during your group program dates!
6
Puerto Vallarta
Dominican Republic
February 2016
Humpback Whale Watching in Samana Bay A unique opportunity is to observe humpback whales in their natural calving and mating grounds here in Samana Bay, Dominican Republic. Listen to the male humpback’s solitary courting song and witness incredible displays of flippering, tail lobbing and breaching by the most active species of whale in the Atlantic.
Whale-watching season here starts January 14th and continues through March 15th. Sometimes the season extends itself through the end of March. Ken De Pree, DR’s whale expert, reports on the arrival of the humpback whales and whale-watching season. Thousands of humpback whales from the North Atlantic migrate to the waters of the Dominican Republic each winter to mate and give birth. Their most popular winter rendezvous is Silver Bank, the 3,000-square-kilometer reef system approximately 70 miles north east of Puerto Plata. But from there many circulate to other popular areas just like humans do at single bars! One of these gathering places is Samana Bay. More than 1,500 humpbacks visit the bay, with as many as 300 present at any given time during mating season. The World Wildlife Fund considers Samana Bay one of the best places in the world to whale watch. It offers something for everyone—the outer bay is where you might find aggressive males competing for the favor of willing females, and the sheltered inner bay is one of the most important humpback nurseries in the world. As previously stated January to March is the usual whale-watching season in Samana Bay; however, the excursions continue as long as enough whales remain. The rest of the year, the whales feed in the cold, fish-rich waters of the North Atlantic between Massachusetts Bay and Iceland and Greenland. Summer whale-watching excursions are offered in those areas, but there is no better time than the winter mating season when the male humpbacks, eager to impress the females, are most animated, and when newborn calves can be seen swimming alongside their mothers. Humpback whales have been wintering near Samana for centuries. Cave drawings made by the aboriginal inhabitants of Los Haitises National Park, long before Columbus arrived, depict the spouting whales. And Columbus saw them too, as the log of his travels along the north coast in 1493 makes clear.
7
Cover Topic (continued…)
Costa Rica
When you travel to Costa Rica on an incentive trip you can be sure of one thing: Our most popular activities are ALWAYS IN SEASON!
Being so close to the equator, we don’t have a real winter or summer, just rainy and dry season, so climate will never be an issue for the activities you choose! Even rainy season, from May to November, is usually characterized by sunny mornings and rainy afternoons, so you will still be very likely to have time to pack your morning with exciting adventures without the rain. So do you want to know what some of our most popular activities are? There’s so many things you can choose from! One of our favorites is the sunset sailing trip were many guests have been amazed by sightings of dolphins, turtles, and even whales, and if you want to make this truly unforgettable then how about celebrating with a surf and turf dinner to the rhythm of Calypso at the beach after the sun sets in the wonderful horizon. If you are looking for a little more action how about getting the catch of the day with the best fishing of the area, learning to surf, paddleboard or even ride waves on a jet ski? Or how about getting in touch with the green side of Costa Rica by doing some canopy, horseback riding, atv’s, water slides and/or thermal waters and trails? Sounds perfect, right? So, let us invite you to a great place where fun, adventure and relaxation are always in season!
8
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
February 2016
Above: Aguas Termales in Tabac贸n
To the Right: Dinner on the beach at Father Rooster restaurant
Below: A dolphin sighting on one of our catamaran tours.
9
Cover Topic (continued…)
Panama enjoys an enviable year-round pleasant tropical climate. The average temperature is of 82 ° F and we have the dry and rainy season. From December to April you would be delighted by the grateful sun, infinite-blue sky and balmy breeze; meanwhile, from May to November your sunny morning would be refreshed by a gentle rain during your afternoon. This perfect mix helps out to enjoy every single minute during your stay in Panama with activities that range (but not limited to) from whale watching in the Pearl Islands, Panama canal area birding, a yacht trip enjoying the Panama city vertiginous’ skyline, a beach day in one of our many paradisiac scenarios, or see the sights and sounds of the carnivals…
Whale Watching in the Pearl Islands You may enjoy this activity while staying in the city, because it is just about a two hour boat trip from the dock to the Pearl Islands. Panama is one of the only two places in the world where humpback whales come from Southern and Northern hemisphere. The best months for this activity are from July to October and December to March. Up to 2,000 humpback whales come to Panama during these periods. You may also see calves during certain months and dolphins species on these tours.
Birding in the Panama Canal Area Just a one-hour-ride separates you from the comforts of your city hotel to one of the most richly diverse birding areas in the world. Panama has around 976 bird species and about 650 of them are in this area. The most popular months for this activity are December, January, February, and March. This area is comprised by several national parks that in total accounts for 5% of the Panamanian territory.
10
Panama
Panama
February 2016
Yacht Trip Enjoy the Vertiginous Panama City & Casco Viejo Skylines What about enjoying the sights of the Panama city skyline? From the tallest one in Central America to the colonial one of a World Heritage Site, the Casco Viejo, allow yourself to be fascinated with these views, while enjoying a glass of champagne and the soothing breeze of this tropical country.
Summer Beach Day We invite you to enjoy the sand and tranquil and calming sounds of the waves on the Pacific side. From kayaking, banana boat, diving, and snorkeling in the warm waters of the islands to enjoying the Panamanian gastronomy while relaxing on the shore.
See the Sights & Sounds of the Carnival It is a unique experience to join the revelry of the carnival throughout the Isthmus. Every single town has its own flavor and special touch to celebrate it during the four days leading to Ash Wednesday. From the folkloric Carnival of Las Tablas, famous for
the traditional rivalry between “Calle Arriba” and “Calle Abajo”; to the one in the “Cinta Costera” in Panama City, renown for its diversity, you are bound to enjoy yourself.
11
Cover Topic (continued‌)
BRAZIL Parintins Folklore Festival is a popular annual celebration held in the Brazilian city of Parintins, Amazonas. It is the second largest annual festival in Brazil; only the Carnival festivities in Rio de Janeiro draw more participants. The event takes place during three days in late June. The festival celebrates a local legend about a resurrected ox. There is a competition where two teams, Garantido and Caprichoso, compete in extended retellings of the story, each team attempting to outdo the other with flamboyant dances, singing, and parade floats. Each nightly performance is largely based on local Amazonian folklore and indigenous culture, but also incorporates contemporary Brazilian rhythms and themes. The place where the teams present themselves is called "BumbĂłdromo".
12
Brazil
The summer Olympics will be held in Brazil in
PLAN YOUR GROUP IN ADVANCE!
13
SITE Classic 2015 Fundraising and donations made in behalf of:
For further info fine hotels, d and group pack in this mag contact Francisc fbaeza@ivi
14
February 2016
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.
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:
ormation on the deals, activities, kages mentioned gazine, please co BAEZA: idmc.travel
Mexico Cuba Dominican Republic Belize Guatemala El Salvador Honduras Costa Rica Panama Colombia Brazil Argentina Chile Coming soon...Peru!
The Customer is Always Right I am writing to express my deepest thanks for IVI DMC2‘s help in organizing and managing NTS Sales Incentive 2016 in Cancun. Rebeca, when you were introduced as my planning coordinator I immediately felt comfortable at how knowledgeable and also very thorough you are. Your attention to detail is great and again I felt everything was under control and you gave me all required information. You even called me late at night to inform me of airport arrivals which was very much appreciated. I also appreciate your patience in the number of changes I had regarding numbers and that you always kept me well informed of the consequences of this.
15
Nicole Unsworth Event Manager Capita Travel and Events
Sweet Potato Fries Ingredients:
Sweet Potatoes
Salt
Butter Cinnamon
Sugar in the raw or brown sugar
Preparation: Wash and then peel the sweet potatoes. Next slice them into very thin pieces (the size of McDonald’s french fries). Heat sufficient butter in a frying pan and then fry the fries. Once they are nearly done sprinkle salt, a little sugar, and a little cinnamon over the fries and voilà, bon appetite!
Fun Fact: Do you know what’s in season in February?
Asparagus
Kiwi
Avocado
Lemons
Beets
Limes
Broccoli
Oranges
Brussel Sprouts
Papaya
Cabbage
Parsnips
Cauliflower
Sweet Potatoes
Celery
Tangerines
Clementine
Turnips
Grapes
16
Travel Tip: On a Long Journey Even a Straw Weighs Heavy You may want to keep this Spanish proverb in mind as you consider the reasons for checking versus carrying on your luggage.
The Disadvantages Your luggage may get lost or stolen.
To Check The Advantages You don’t have to schlep your stuff around.
Your luggage may be opened and the contents may be removed.
...or Not to Check The Advantages You can go right to the gate.
If the flight is delayed, you have far more freedom to move about the airport or travel into town.
You needn’t wait in line at the ticket counter.
You needn’t wait at the luggage carousel. Your luggage wouldn’t get misrouted or robbed The Disadvantages You must schlep. (Taken from page 130)
Because you have no need to store your bags, you can avoid the mad dash to board and find a bin. You needn’t cram or lift your luggage into those spacious overhead bins.
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
17
18