1
Year 8 Vol. 1, Issue 105 Visionary, Founder, & Master Coach
Jose-Manuel GARCIA, CDS jmgarcia@ividmc.travel
President
Jose-Manuel (Manolo) GARCIA, CIS manolo@ividmc.travel
Contents:
Page
How to Prepare Johnny Cakes
3
Cover Subject:
The Greatness of These Trendy Destinations Will Add Luster to Your Unique Upcoming Celebration
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
MyDay Travel: 5 Amazing Highways You Must Drive Once in Your Life
10
Managing Director —MyDay Travel
Jorge OROZCO, DMCP jorozco@myday.travel
Banyan Tree MayaKoba Riviera Maya
12
Corporate Headquarters:
Av. Acanceh 1-01, SM 15 Cancun, Q. Roo, 77500 Mex. Ph. +52 (998) 287-1700 www.ividmc.travel
Quick Hits: Golf Cup Melia Cuba
13
DQuest Travel
14
Travel Tip: Some Packing Tips
15
4-9
Cuba Guatemala Belize El Salvador Honduras
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 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 Los Cabos Mario FOSTER Destination Managing Director mfoster@ividmc.travel
Follow us on...
© Copyright 2015. All Rights Reserved. 2
How to Prepare Johnny Cakes
September 2015
This simple yet delicious and traditional food used to be called "Journey Cakes", because early settlers took them on their journeys. The more commonly used name nowadays is Johnny Cakes. Did you know that Johnny Cakes are cooked differently across the world and that they are even mentioned in a song by Boney M - “We had fried fish and Johnny-cakes”? The tasty Caribbean Johnny cakes are a must have on the Islands of the blue sea, and that includes Belize, where they truly are a staple. How popular are they? To give you an idea, Johnny Cakes are to Belizeans what tortillas are for Mexicans. Would you like to know how to prepare them the Belizean way? Ya man! Ingredients (Yields: 20 buns): 4 cups flour 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ cup of sugar 1 teaspoon salt 8 tablespoons butter at room temperature, cut in small pieces 1 cup coconut milk or coconut cream Preparation: 1. In a bowl combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. 2. Add the butter and mix with your fingertips to obtain a homogeneous sandy consistency. 3. Stir in coconut milk and knead quickly, forming a smooth ball that easily detaches from the container. 4. Divide the dough into balls the size of golf balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let stand for 10 minutes. Then, slightly flatten the balls. 5. Prick in several places with a fork. 6. Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake for 10-15 minutes, placing the baking sheet on a lower shelf in the oven. Then, place baking sheet near the top and bake for another 5 minutes. Times vary greatly from one oven to another, so pay close attention to the color of the Johnny cakes, which should look lightly brown on the top. Enjoy Johnny cakes hot or warm, fill with beans, bacon, eggs, cheese, or anything your tummy desires. (Recipe taken from San Ignacio Resort Hotel Blog)
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
3
Cover Topic:
The Greatness of These Trendy Destinations Will Add Luster to Your Unique Upcoming Celebration See What’s Happening and Get the Inside Scoop
U.S. Embassy Opens in Cuba The U.S. and Cuba agreed to reopen their embassies. As it was announced in December 2014, the governments of Cuba and the U.S. resumed their diplomatic relations. This announcement marks a new chapter for both countries but especially for Cuba, as it is expected that this new approach will bring important benefits in many aspects, one of them being the tourism industry. This approved measure puts an end to an estranged relation of more than 50 years. As of July 1, 2015, after a series of discussions between senior officials from both countries, an official announcement was made regarding an agreement taken to resume full diplomatic relations between Havana and Washington. This opening brings as a benefit the rapprochement between the two nations and their peoples. This initiative will give confidence to American tourists and businesses interested in visiting the island, or trying to take advantage of new trade opportunities. These changed conditions represent a new era of Cuba’s engagement in the world arena of tourism. We invite meeting and incentive planners to be part of this by bringing your event to this beautiful destination and make history along with us!
4
Caribbean: Cuba
September 2015
Caribbean: Cuba
American Airlines to Start Los Angeles - Cuba Flights in December As the U.S. and Cuban governments prepared to re-establish normal relations earlier this year, American Airlines officials said they were eager to begin scheduled flights. Recently, American reiterated that it plans to launch scheduled services as soon as the two governments allow those flights. “We are excited to expand our partnership with American to include flights from Los Angeles to Havana,” said Michael Zuccato, Cuba Travel Services’ general manager. “We will continue to deliver a high-quality travel experience, and opening up new West Coast access to Cuba will bring a convenient, affordable option to authorized travelers.” “American is the premier carrier in Los Angeles and throughout the Caribbean, and this new charter flight shows how we continue to expand our reach by offering new routes and services our customers want,” said Art Torno, American’s senior vice president of international and cargo. “We stand ready to offer scheduled service as soon as the United States and Cuba allow commercial flights.”
5
Hilton Inn Opens in Guatemala City With an investment of Q23 millions (Guatemalan currency) the former Princess Hotel was transformed into the Hilton Inn. This important project was carried out according to the well known standards of quality and service that Hilton brand offers worldwide. After 22 successful years of the Princess franchise, this month is the start of a new era, thus witnessing the birth of the first Hilton hotel in Guatemala. The hotel mainly seeks to attract the segment of business travelers, although family leisure is not ruled out of course. More and more projects are being considered for Guatemala as we speak!
Central6 America: Guatemala
Central America: Belize
September 2015
Copa Airlines Begins Operating New Flights in Belize A press conference was held at the Best Western Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel, announcing airline services to Belize through Copa Airlines. Starting December 8th, 2015, Copa Airlines will be offering 2 weekly flights to Belize City from Hub de la Americas Panama City, Panama. With this new addition, Copa Airlines has now in its ever expanding portfolio 75 cities in this continent. With the addition of Belize, Copa is already covering all of Central America, thus strengthening its regional leadership.
7
Roatan, a New Hot Cruise Destination The European company Pullmantour, has adopted Roatan as a new destination in their travel itineraries. The reason? Pullmantour was inspired by the level of satisfaction that traveler’s reviews have made of this unique destination. Pullmantour’s Monarch cruise ship already visited Roatan for the second time on July 18, 2015. Monarch is the largest ship of the company, with a capacity for over 2,000 passengers. It has already docked in main ports such as the ones in George Town in Grand Cayman, Roatan in Honduras, Belize, and Cozumel in Mexico.
Central8 America: Honduras
Central America: El Salvador
September 2015
The New Dazzling Golf Course El Encanto Opens in El Salvador In a privileged location, just 15 minutes from the capital San Salvador and with an elevation of 2,300 feet (700 m) above sea level, El Encanto features 610 residential lots in an area of 300 blocks, around an 18-hole golf course. The main attraction of El Encanto is its unique golf course designed by the legendary architect Perry Dye of Dye Designs Signature, one of the most famous golf course architects. This brand is also the creator of Roatan Course, Black Pearl, and La Reunion in Antigua, Guatemala. The course is now open with 10 playable holes and it’s already a busy hub for avid golfers.
9
5 Amazing Highways You Must Drive Once in Your Life We present you with the highways featuring the best views and landscapes, to not only enjoy your vacation, but the drive as well.
Flowering Desert – Chile
Austral Highway – Chile
10
Atlantic Highway– Norway
Rohtang – India
Karakorum Route – Pakistan/China 11
September 2015
12
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.
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).” 14
Travel Tip: Some Packing Tips
September 2015
Save your dry cleaner’s bags. Clothes packed in plastic move around and don't wrinkle easily. Don’t pack all your clothes in one bag, especially if you are traveling with someone else. Pack some of your clothes in your travelling companion’s bag and have him or her pack some clothes in your bag. If luggage is lost neither of you will be without clothes. Remember, the airlines normally find a bag within 24 hours. Make sure a phone number is listed on the outside luggage tag. Use lots of Ziploc bags when you pack. Organize your clothes. Use the bags to prevent wrinkles. Carry small repair items, extra dental floss, and change inside your carry-on, so you can find it easily. I keep one just for receipts, another for calling cards, and a third for menu or other items I want to save from the trip. Take your medicine with you on the plane. Do not check medicine. Don’t pack any items you may need within 24 hours. Never leave tickets, passports, visas, prescriptions, or other important items inside your luggage. Also, remember the inside of the airline or cruise cabin may get hot in the summer. Keep your cosmetics cool or you will find a lipstick popsicle. You can usually replace anything you forgot. Enjoy your trip and don’t sweat the small stuff. “I have been to almost as many places as my luggage.” - Bob Hope
(Taken from pages 93, 94)
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
15
The Customer is Always Right
Raquel was so very helpful to Kim on planning. Kim mentioned many times how wonderful she was. Fausto was well informed about the client, the needs, and what the content of the program was. He was always on time, willing to help, and very professional; I would love to work with him again. Teresa Mcguire USMotivation
16