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Th e m e e t i n g s a n d i n c e n t i ve v e t ra r a ve v e l m a g a z i n e f o r c o r p o raa te t p l a n n e rs rs … e n r i c h e d w i t h p r i n t e d b r a i n fo f o o d f o r d e c i s i o n m a kee rss

104

MIM ma m gazine Afgift g tek ekaantoor-Bureau dee dépôt:: 28000 Mechelen 1

Publishhed hed 6 times a year: Feb, Apr, Jun Junn, Sep, NNovv,v, De Deecc Dec Editionn Apri Aprril 2009 – P4A9032

Corpooratee Interview

AB InBev

ILJA STRUMANE 'NO PROBLEM FACING CHALLENGES' Visit MIMMAGAZINE.EU at IMEX stand No. A204 Also

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CLUB MED BUSINESS MAKING BUSINESS WORK WITH PLEASURE

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Give your staff a unique collective experience, a real break from their everyday professional life.

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION T : +32 2 535 25 20 Email : cmb-belgium@clubmed.com Website : www.clubmed.be/business

Š Andreas Von Einsiedel

EDITORIAL

MARCEL A.M. VISSERS Owner - Editor in chief

a

s

WWW.MIMMAGAZINE.EU

EMIF is back Letty Stegeman of easyFairs - the organizers of the meetings trade fair EMIF - put it aptly in her press release: EMIF is Back. I never could have gone right to the point like that and it's quite self-explanatory. But it's not because the fair is 'back' that they're back in the game. This year there were 3,297 visitors and 150 association executives, but we all know that those numbers don't guarantee quality. That would need more research. That's why I invite everyone to take part in EMIF's Exhibitor Survey. Personally, I think the organizers have succeeded in turning the tide. The perception of the exhibitors and visitors has turned positive again and I'm aware that in that group there are still a lot of unhappy people.

who helped to feed the fair. Did that give EMIF the really strong legs it needed?

No, not entirely, but with a bit more food from the exhibitors and visitors - who are also readers of MIM magazine or HQ magazine - we'll see a fair on strong legs once again.

I've tried to translate that point of view by writing about a spider in the trade fair newspaper of EMIF: Maybe you've heard the expression about a spider and its strong legs before... You can't really say that a spider has strong legs, but it does have strong spider silk. If I'd compare the meetings industry with a spider, I'd put the spider head in the centre. It's very important that the head is well-fed, otherwise the spider will collapse, and in our industry that head consists of a trade fair, professional associations and trade press.

If these three parts are not fed by the visitors, buyers, members and readers, that industry will collapse. Luckily we were able to build a group around EMIF - you could call them strategic partners -

That's why I'm looking forward to EMIF 2010 with conďŹ dence, or to put it in Heidi Smitt's words:

I think the EMIF organizers have succeeded in turning the tide

During EMIF 2010 we won't be walking on tiptoe, but with a proud strut.

CONTENTS GENERAL Editorial Short News COLOPHON MIM magazine IS THE TREND-SETTING TRADE JOURNAL FOR THE MEETINGS INDUSTRY IN BELUX. MIM MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ENGLISH AND COMES OUT 6 TIMES A YEAR AND HAS A CIRCULATION OF 5000 COPIES, PUBLISHED BY MEETING MEDIA COMPANY BVBA/SARL. SUBSCRIPTIONS: An Annual subscription in Belgium costs 75 EURO (excl. 6% tax) and comprises 6 magazines. In order to subscribe, go to www.MIMmagazine.eu or send an e-mail to subscribe@meetingmedia.eu.

Editor in chief: Marcel A.M. Vissers T: +32 (0)3 226 88 81 marcel@meetingmedia.eu Managing Director: Cécile Caiati-Koch T: +32 (0)2 761 70 52 cecile@meetingmedia.eu Business Development Executive: Janne De Cloedt janne@meetingmedia.eu Tel. 02/761.70.53

Editorial Manager: Steven Kins T: +32 (0)2 761 70 54 steven@meetingmedia.eu Editor: Rémi Dévé Address: 20, rue Paul Wemaere B - 1150 Brussels (Belgium) T: +32 (0)2 761 70 50 F: +32 (0)2 761 70 51 www.mimmagazine.eu Publisher: Meeting Media Company Marcel A.M. Vissers Mechelseplein 23, bus 1 B - 2000 Antwerpen (Belgium) www.meetingmedia.eu

3 6

INTERVIEWS Cover Corporate Interview - AB InBev Interview: Belgium Convention Bureau Flanders - Brussels Interview: Club Med Business

20

BELGIUM Afterthoughts on EMIF 09 EMIF 09 stats Brussels Meetings Week Incentives in Belgium B-Aparthotels

7 9 10 14 18

ABROAD London Lisbon Algarve Evénement France 09

22 27 28 33

11 16

Destination Reports Ghent & Strasbourg

Photographer: (Cover, cover interview and p.3) Paul De Cloedt

Design: UPSILON advertising, Gent T: +32 (0)9 267 39 40 info@upsilonadvertising.be Printing: Cartim - Destelbergen

REGISTER NOW ON THE NEW MIM MAGAZINE WEBSITE! WWW.MIMMAGAZINE.EU ➔ FOR SUBSCRIBERS - simply log in to read the magazine online or the extended versions of key articles.

➔ FOR OTHERS - just subscribe directly on the website and you will instantly have access to in-depth content online.

MIM magazine sets great store by sustainable development and therefore chose environment-friendly FSC certified paper which comes from a controlled source.

More info: www.fsc.be and www.fsc.org ® FSC, A.C. FSC-SECR-0045

➔ And the good news is there are even more developments to come

Stay tuned!

MIM > General > Short News

Short news Updatabase

ICC ghent receives 3 hammers

A cabin in the woods At the end of August a renowned, out-of-the-ordinary location in the heart of the Bois de la Cambre in Brussels, on the Robinson's Island will be ready to welcome events of all kinds - receptions for up to 500 guests, gala dinners, walking dinners.

Ravaged by fire in 1991, the Chalet Robinson has since been restored to its timbered charm of yesteryear and now it will be definitely worth the label of Brussels Special Venue. It comprises a series of spacious reception areas spread over two floors, and a splendid terrace. The island is reached via two electric ferryboats.

In 1996 a national congress and meeting classification for accommodations was born in The Netherlands. The quality program is monitored by CLC (professional association for organizers of fairs, congresses & events). On 30 June 2008 ICC Ghent got the first classification and the official launch in Belgium was on 1 January 2009, but EMIF 2009 meant the real start with the launch of the new websites www.vergaderhamer.be and www.marteaudereunion.be The first classified accommodation in Belgium: International Convention Center Ghent Type: congress facilities Hofbouwlaan / Citadelpark, B-9000 Gent T: +32 (0)9 242 89 00 - F: +32 (0)9 242 89 01 nicolas.vandeneynden@iccghent.com www.iccghent.com Number of hammers: 3

Hammer classification

Eloi Courcoux has been named Director, Business Solutions for Disneyland Resort Paris. He succeeds Carlo Olejniczak who was recently promoted to Vice President, Sales and Marketing France.

Since 1 February Hans Wils is the new General Manager for Crowne Plaza Antwerp. Hans has the Dutch nationality and a rich experience in the international hotel business.

PARTICIPATE AT THE BOOST AWARD 2009!

Do you organize a titillating, original and creative incentive, corporate event or convention in Ostend in the course of 2009? If so, you can put yourself in the running for the Boost Award: Best of Ostend Incentive, Corporate Event and Convention 2009.

The 2008 edition of the Boost Award definitely was a great success: no less than 24 cases were submitted and numerous guests attended the gala ceremony at Fort Napoleon.

APPEAL TO PCO’S, TEAMBUILDING ORGANISERS AND EVENT AGENCIES.

You did not submit your case in 2008? Try your luck for the Boost Award 2009!

For entry and competition regulations: Boost Award Secretariat (Toerisme Oostende vzw) Monacoplein 2 / 8400 Oostende / T +32(0)59 255 317 boost@toerisme-oostende.be / www.toerisme-oostende.be/boostaward

50331_Ad_Boost.indd 1

08-04-2009 10:06:21

MIM > Fairs > Emif

Some thoughts on

AFTER -FA ISSUE IR . .

On Friday 20 March an Awards ceremony concluded the Brussels Meetings Week. For most people in the Belgian meetings industry this was the end of a challenging and tiring week to promote their city, their region, their hotel or venue, or their services.

Part of this week was the EMIF fair, version 2009. Those involved know this was a key edition, after some challenging years and a change of ownership in 2007. The organisation changed their strategies, venue, marketing, well almost everything to show all involved that they mean business and still fully support this fair!

Let’s start with the good news: EMIF 2010 will almost certainly take place again, I think we can conclude this after speaking to a lot of exhibitors, visitors and the organisation. The need for a high-quality meetings fair in Belgium is very clear, certainly with the economic circumstances as they are. A good meeting place for suppliers and buyers, federations and their members, and of course for the press.

A small step is taken on the long and winding road to become what EMIF could really be! So, what could be better? Here are a few points with room for improvement: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Miss MIM

09

Miss MIM, Marion Flipse, the S.M.A.R.T. pr lady in our industry, was touched when she was handed over her prize on the EMIF stage. She received a small tree that represented the tree that was bought for her - and named after her - from the Trees for Life foundation and will be planted in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland in the restored Caledonian forest.

If you have an idea who should be Miss or Mister MIM next year, share us your thoughts! We already know he or she will be a dynamic, passionate and creative mind in the meetings industry...

A different marketing approach New ideas and venues More and better off-site programmes to attract European hosted buyers Content content content

MIM 7

MIM > Fairs > Emif

Denis Verhoeven - Koning & Hartman / I came here for a short but sweet visit and have attended an interesting learnshop.

Some thoughts...

MPI's Miranda van Brück and Maria Jacobsson are obviously used to the cameras flashing.

> MIRANDA /

Nicolas Le Brun - EFAPCO /

'EMIF has become a bit more small-scaled, but it's definitely more cosy.'

In spite of the overall negativity due to the economic crisis, this fair provides a luminous, laid-back ambiance to do business at.

MARIA / 'It was almost like entering a night club, so impressive. And a first impression is very important, definitely for a fair for the professionals in the industry.'

NATHALIE REGA / This is my first meetings industry fair ever and I've noticed that it's not as crowded as other types of fairs but it's definitely a good experience.

If you want to shake a cocktail, you've got to do it the right way - spectacular!

MIM 8

MIM > Fairs > Emif

Who visited EMIF? The identity of a typical visitor We've already told you that EMIF is back on the right track, and the organizers were proud to announce the stats they collected from the visitors. But who is your typical EMIF visitor?

MIM magazine had a look and created an EMIF Visitor 1.0.

TEXT STEVEN KINS

%

Years of experience in the meetings industry

30% 22%

19% 15%

20%

Belgian

Dutch

Luxembourg

French

European (other countries)

non-European

91%

4%

1%

1%

2%

1%

13% 9%

8%

<2,500,000

500,000 to 1,000,000

250,000 to 500,000

100,000 to 250,000

25,000 to 100,000

11%

1,000,000 to 2,500,000

%

15%

>25,000

Visitors

1 to 2

Annual budget for events in Euro

â&#x201A;Ź 24%

%

14%

less than 1

5 to 10

Of course this doesn't give you a complete overview (for example: if you have a good look, you see that 51% has less than 5 years of experience in the industry, so not every visitor was that experienced), so here are the complete stats:

2 to 5

More than 10

He or she is a Belgian CEO with more than 10 years of experience in the meetings industry who can decide over the organization and planning of the events. He or she has an annual budget of less than 25,000 EURO and is interested in Belgian venues.

Position

%

Decision responsibility

36%

8%

None

Recommend

Final decision

Plan or organize

8%

Research

18%

Other

Travel Manager

Exhibition Manager

1% 15%

HR Manager

Sales Manager

2%

Corporate Planner

6%

Meeting and Event Planner

6%

CEO

7%

Marketing or Communication Manager

22% 16% 16% 9% PR Manager

30%

Areas of interest 883 685 609 468 446 407 348 346 338 294 264 245 163 147 121 107 90 78 76 94

Home country Brussels region Flanders region Wallonia region The Netherlands France United Kingdom Luxembourg Southern Europe Germany Scandinavia Central & Eastern Europe Africa Middle East Asia North America North Africa Latin America Australasia & PaciďŹ c Other

Products of interest 725 706 687 647 617 607 557 551 505 373 336 310 233 215 210 189 161

Venues Incentives & teambuilding Event organizers Destinations Marketing, promotion & business gifts Catering Event support services Attractions & entertainment Meeting logistics & facilities Business travel Transport Technology support Media Professional associations DMC Consultancy & education PCO

MIM 9

MIM > Belgium > BMW

The week, dedicated to the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions Industry, is designed to raise awareness of the importance of the sector in terms of economic benefits for Brussels. The idea is also to motivate the principal actors in the industry to contribute to a joint project: that of promoting the image of Brussels overseas.

The Brussels Meetings Week kicked off at BOZAR with a press conference around all the latest facts & figures. It is estimated that 22,000 jobs in the Brussels Capital Region depend on the activities in this sector. So it’s highly appropriate that on Friday also a Brussels Job Day was held which concentrates on jobs within the industry itself.

'The internationalisation of Brussels is one of the major challenges for the economic development of the Region. This is now a fact, and the Meetings & Events sector is an essential motor for this development. The key objective of Brussels Meetings Week is to unite all the stakeholders and make them aware of the potential and significance this sector has for Brussels' explained Philippe Close, President of BI-TC. These activities took place alongside EMIF (European Meetings Industry Fair) on 18-19 March at Tour & Taxis, where some 400 Belgian and international exhibitors offered a panorama of the latest trends in the sector.

During the Brussels Meetings Week, BI-TC also offered a special programme directed

MIM 10

towards potential clients. Hervé Bosquet of the Brussels Convention Bureau commented: 'The VIP Day of the Brussels Meetings Week was once again a successful way of showing the diversity and the possibilities of the Brussels venues. The dinner in the jaw-dropping museum of Natural Sciences was a perfect conclusion of the VIP programme.'

The Zinneke Parade - a colourful parade that shows the creativity of young and old in Brussels - wins the award for 'Image of Brussels 2008'. The exhibition It's Our Earth! about the environmental challenges received the prize for 'Best Touristical Event 2008'. In the category 'Best Brussels Incentive Event 2008' the award went to Only4Senses, which serves a meal in absolute darkness in the vaulted cellars of the Saint-Hubert Galeries.

Terrassement from Saint Quentin and Yvelines which consisted of gastronomic, sensory and architectural discoveries in Brussels.

The Walk-In Movies offered 5000 film enthusiasts the opportunity to see movies in the open air in the magical setting of the Parc du Cinquantenaire last summer.

This idea got VO Event the award for 'Best Brussels B2C Event 2008'.

Verhulst Events was the lucky winner in the category 'Best Brussels B2B Event 2008' for Julia Migenes & Le Cadre Noir de Saumur, combining a beautiful voice with the delightful horses of the national riding academy in the Heysel. The Museum of Natural Sciences became the 'Best Brussels Special Venue 2008'.

Since 2001, BAPCO (Belgian Association of Professional Conferences Organisers) has been presenting the 'Belgian Meeting Industry Award' to people or institutions who are working outside of our industry but whose contributions are positive to its development and recognition. This year, they chose more than ever someone who plays a major role in the development of the Brussels region: Emmanuel van Innis, President of BECI and Member of the Board of Directors of Suez Tractebel.

Brussels International Travel Service (BITS) won the 'Best Brussels Incentive Travel 2008' for the 3-day stay of DTP

More info on: www.brusselsmeetingsweek.be

The week ended with the Brussels Meetings & Tourism Awards Ceremony. Nine prizes were awarded to initiatives that contributed to more vitality in the tourist offer in Brussels in 2008. In the category 'New for 2008' Museum Night Fever scooped the main prize. This new concept makes museum visits trendy.

MIM > Interview > Corporate

Anheuser-Busch InBev

Ilja Strumane Has no problem facing challenges

A while ago, we were invited by a Belgian incentive house and KLM for a fam trip to the place where Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana meet. We flew with KLM to Harare, Kenya, where we were supposed to take a regional flight. When we arrived there, we stepped on the tarmac in the blazing sunshine and were told we couldn't get on the next plane. That's how we first met Ilja Strumane who was working for KLM at the time.

She said: 'that's impossible!' and immediately started negotiating.

When that didn't really help, she told us: 'get on the plane and they won't be able to get us off.'

This is a perfect example of how she takes matters into her own hands, and after this interview we knew this trait of hers is still present in her new job as Global Travel Manager for AnheuserBusch InBev. INTERVIEW CÉCILE CAIATI-KOCH AND STEVEN KINS

I'm part of the procurement department so I challenge the prices of professional organizers to bring down the cost

MIM 11

MIM > Interview > Corporate

me as their global travel manager, and I just had to take that opportunity. I've been here for a year and a half now.'

MIM: We know Anheuser-Busch InBev as a major beer company.

Ilja: 'Anheuser-Busch InBev is the leading global brewer and one of the world's top five consumer products companies uniting 300 brands and four of the top ten selling beers in the world. The major merger we recently had definitely had an impact on the events we organize. Headquartered in Leuven, Belgium, AB InBev employs 120,000 people in 30 countries. The company works through six operational zones: North America, Latin America North, Latin America South, Western Europe, Central & Eastern Europe, and Asia Pacific. Our dream is to become 'The Best Beer Company in a Better World'.'

Our travel policy applies to the trips our manager is making but also to those of the technician MIM: Could you introduce yourself to

MIM: What kind of events do you organize?

the readers of MIM magazine?

Ilja Strumane: 'I have a degree in industrial psychology so that doesn't have an awful lot to do with tourism. I started working for the leading sports brand in Europe, Decathlon.

Ilja: 'We mainly organize meetings, not so much incentive trips, because the company sees them as budget-consuming, although I have to admit that I – together with the sales department – do see the value of incentives but we just don't get the budgets for it. We've just seen a major take-over and we're a healthy company but given the current situation we have to be careful.

'I've always been fascinated by everything about aviation and when I spotted a KLM job ad, I eventually ended up there. So I suddenly found myself in the tourism industry and I stuck around, like many people do. Thomas Cook contacted me when they were looking for someone who would take care of traffic contracts. Finally InBev got in touch because they wanted

MIM 12

'Incentives are requested by the regional sales department. Belgium organizes them on a regular basis and a French group with our best local sales people has just gone to Cuba on a classic incentive trip. All

those requests have to pass by my desk.

Anheuser Busch was very much oriented towards incentives, because that's part of the American corporate culture, but now those trips will be reduced, keeping in mind the strict budgets. The same has already happened in Europe, because InBev also organized more incentive trips before the merger.

'A lot of the decision makers are based in Leuven, so many events are organized here, but annually a lot of people go to North or South America. Annually we have about 20 large meetings ranging from 50 to 200 people, and three structural meetings for higher management.

And if we organize a meeting, it has to be perfect. A dinner after a meeting is possible though, we're not that dry, but it's all work-related, so a presentation might be incorporated in that evening, or some networking time.'

MIM: Do you work together with a professional organizer?

Ilja: 'It's typical of InBev that we feel we can do everything better – and especially cheaper – ourselves. When I saw the prices of the French incentive trip to Cuba, I was stunned. The French bureaus have a 35% margin on the total price. That's why I need to see and check every request for events.

'I'm part of the procurement department so I challenge their prices to bring down the cost. The fact that I'm always able to skim the cream off from their prices, means they keep a serious margin.'

'The incentive houses undermine their own position if I feel cheated. If I'm able to find cheaper flights, I wonder what's their added value. Of course, they're good in the creative part, creating special experiences, the on-site organization and handling problems. The ones we worked with, however, were no added value when

MIM > Interview > Corporate

The incentive houses we worked with were no added value when it came to costs it came to costs. Anyway, the best way is to work on the basis of a fee and not on commission.'

MIM: How do you pick your destinations?

Ilja: 'We select them on the basis of the beer presence. That's why the French group went to Cuba. Other incentives go to Latin America, Cuba, Mexico or Mauritius.'

MIM: Do you see an evolution in the events?

Ilja: 'We're in a crisis situation so the events are the first thing we cut costs in, while other companies may just invest more in that area. However, we don't touch the meetings, only the incentives.

We don't want to spread the image of a company that's squandering money, because we're very demanding for our suppliers ourselves. That's also why we've blocked certain hotel chains, especially in America, because they didn't match with our image. It's part of our philosophy. In that area we're an atypical company.

'I have to say that our travel policy applies to everyone, so the technician can fly business class on a long-haul trip and stay in the same hotel as the management would do. The South American management has brought down the costs, but before, there was room for incentive trips. In 2009 we still have a few groups, but we're gradually reducing that.'

MIM: Which qualities does a corporate organizer like yourself need?

Ilja: 'The art of negotiation is the basis.

We're part of the procurement department and not human resources, so that says it all... Travelling needs to have a goal and you have to be able to obtain the budgets internally. Every year, each country names its required budget and I challenge if they really need it, because it's always calculated generously.'

MIM: Can you tell us something more about your team?

Ilja: 'We have an events team in every country that takes care of product launches and events for the general public, but not so much incentives. We sponsor a lot of events, festivals and the football competition. Five people take care of the organisation and promotion of those events. VIP tickets for those events are then handed out to some of our clients, as an incentive.

'There are also regional buying agents and people that check the regional budgets, while I do the global deals.'

IN A FEW WORDS, HOW IMPORTANT HAVE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS BECOME? transportation: The number one issue, mostly by plane meals: of minor importance drinks: very important, can only be InBev drinks. Hotels that don't offer them are dropped. That doesn't mean we only drink beer, since we're also the distributor of Pepsi in Latin America. However, wine cannot be included in our expense claims. leisure time: certainly of minor importance sports: there's a fitness room in the building, however, sports don't influence our choice atmosphere, music: Important. Music is used for the atmosphere during meetings Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Something we pay attention to. Just look at our slogan: 'The Best Beer Company in a Better World'. We print as little as possible, or double-sided if necessary. For our Brito CEO meeting all info was to be found on the internet. hotel: We work with zero-based budgeting, and there's a maximum amount of money we can spend on hotel rooms, although there are a few exceptions. We can choose any type of hotel, as long as it's within the imposed rate. low-cost airlines: We don't have any restrictions for this, and with their rates you can take the risk. The times when 'low-cost' equalled 'unreliable' is mainly over. lunches: They just need to be correct. gadgets: Yes, we're in an industry that uses gadgets a lot. conference maps: no length of the trip: If someone goes to Brazil for instance, they usually stay there for three days, and they might even depart during the weekend. conference room: Needs to be fully equipped, in excellent order and have break-out rooms. new techniques: We don't economize on this. coffee breaks: We also don't economize on this. Fruit and biscuits are also made available during breaks.

MIM 13

MIM > Belgium > Incentives

Incentives in Belgium More than one advantage When dreaming about incentives, your mind might wander off to distant places, but an event in Belgium might actually be just the thing you need. Water, hills, green, sea, urban... Our little country has it all. And don't forget: your budget will be grateful. We looked up a few ideas you can use to your own advantage..

TEXT STEVEN KINS

Case Study: Belgian Coast Mirror Race Event Mosaic was the winner of the Toerisme Oostende BOOST award for best teambuilding event with their Belgian Coast Mirror Race, which was labelled innovative, creative and different. The idea is to have different groups on the east and west coast battle to reach Ostend as quickly as possible, hence the name Mirror Race.

It can be a full-day or half-day formula.

Tension is created by keeping the participants guessing about what's in store for them - they only know that they're going by bus in different groups to an unknown location. Once they're in the bus, they get briefed. Through a number of teamoriented trials they need to steal a march on their opponents and get to Ostend as quickly as possible. Each test is intended to discover the next mission and to put the team strength to work.

These are some of the things that are included in the programme: a nervewrecking braincracker test, the crucial test to strike fire from basic resources, the orientation test with a compass, filleting a fish with razor-sharp knives, and the final

MIM 14

test, which requires the ultimate effort from the entire team: rafting at sea and completing a set course.

Ecology, the rapid succession of events and the coast feeling complete the whole experience. Participants use the most environment-friendly methods of transportation: pedal carts, the tram, bus and their own legs...

This formula is available the whole year round, although the final test may be replaced during winter. You only need to notify participants that they need to dress appropriately for this outdoor activity.

Four teams - two on each side - is a minimum and about 15 teams on each side is the limit, with 2 to 12 people in each team.

This makes the race available for 8 to 390 people.

A teambuilding activity like this is great to determine and improve the group atmosphere. The participants have to react to certain situations, so it's a great opportunity to analyze who will take charge, who will act differently than in the professional environment, who has a serious attitude, who ruins the atmosphere...

MIM > Belgium > Incentives

The Ardennes In the southern part of Belgium the Ardennes form the perfect setting for either relaxing events or adventurous activities.

The city of Spa, for instance, is well-known for its mineral and thermal sources, but also for its Formula 1 race - a great combination to work with. A typical two- or three-day event may include a 4x4 raid in the forests, a spa treatment in the thermal baths, a casino evening, a gala dinner and party, and perhaps a few work sessions too, if you still find some time...

to the atmosphere, and a barbecue around the campfire brings some well-deserved relaxation after an action-filled day including kayaking, riding quads, a biking trail, paintball, archery, a laser game, karting or climbing. A 4x4 treasure hunt through the forests, avoiding all kinds of obstacles keeps the adrenaline pumping, while a hike night with torches through the forest makes people feel as one with nature. If you add some gourmet tasting to all this, all tastes are catered for.

Unspoiled Limburg Or why not have an incentive in Teepees somewhere in the Ardennes, what can be more adventurous than that? This unusual event will certainly bring you closer to nature. In the middle of the forest teamwork will play an important role, combining the strengths of every single person to successfully complete all activities. Sleeping with several people in one teepee will add

This is another region that's great for a whole series of different events. Here you can find an adventure rope course, paintball fields, quad, and mountainbike circuits, and GPS games such as Geocoaching and CityGames. All of this wrapped in the green and peaceful scenery of Limburg.

Have you already driven a 2cv?

The Good Time Company proposes a concept for an original incentive trip according to the same principles of the legendary 2cv itself: affordable and lots of fun. These 2cv tours are an excellent opportunity to bring your team together. The active ones take the wheel, while the others let themselves be driven around.

Contact The Good Time Company T: +32 (0)470 598 298 Chaussée de Namur 32B 1315 Piétrebais info@thegoodtimecompany.com www.thegoodtimecompany.com

Groups of four people in each car drive along quiet country roads, come across nice little villages and other lesser-known points of interest. Along the route several stops are planned for playful activities like parking the car blindfolded with the help of the team, pulling the car with a rope, tasting local specialties, or doing the Crazy Good Time Dance.

You can start the tour from The Good Time Company headquarters at Piétrebais or from a place you've picked yourself and allot an entire day, a half day or only a few hours for it and it's even possible to integrate it into a bigger programme. On top of that, if it's raining you don't need to change to plan B, but of course nothing is nicer than being able to drop the top and enjoy the sunshine.

MIM 15

MIM > Belgium > Convention Bureau

belgium convention bureau Flanders - Brussels

New name puts Flanders on the map Belgian Convention Bureau Belgium and Flanders On a sunny day in springtime MIM magazine met up with Jan Wittouck, Director of the Flanders-Brussels Convention Bureau - Meetingpoint Belgium. But don't get used to that name, because they're mixing things up in the upper part of Belgium. The result of the new rebranding will be shown to the world on May 1, but not before MIM magazine had an exclusive talk about the how and why of it all.

INTERVIEW STEVEN KINS

MIM: Of course, the first thing we want to know: what are the most important changes?

New Meeting Guide

Belgium Convention Bureau for Flanders & Brussels T: +32 (0)2 504 04 33 F: +32 (0)2 504 04 80 congres@meetingpoint.be www.meetingpoint.be

MIM 16

Jan Wittouck: 'The name change is the most prominent thing. Meetingpoint Belgium is relegated to the history books.

Too often it was perceived as a meeting place on an aiport or train station, and we definitely wanted to avoid confusion.

Most people in our industry know what a convention bureau is and what they can expect from it, so we wanted to include that in our new name. Furthermore, we see that Flanders is not exactly wellknown and we he have to keep in mind that we need to calculate the economic strength of what we do, according to the agreement with the Ministry of Flanders.

'It's not the first time we notice people's unfamiliarity with the name 'Flanders'.

During the EIBTM and IMEX fairs, we had 80 appointments about Belgium in our schedule opposed to 5 appointments about Flanders, so there's definitely the need to bring Flanders to the fore. The 'new' convention bureau will still be part of the Flanders tourist office and our connection to Flanders will still be clearly visible on our stationery, but we want to explore the possibilities we get by using

the 'Belgium' brand. In the Anholt index Belgium comes in somewhere in between, but Flanders is not known at all. Not one company or organization is using a new and unknown brand without spending lots of money to promote it, and since we don't have the budgets to create a big media campaign around Flanders...

'Foreigners only know Brussels and Belgium, all the rest is far too complicated, that's why we chose this new name and fought for it. You can ask yourself: what about OPT, the Convention Bureau for Brussels and Wallonia? Of course we have informed them so they're aware of the new name and chances are that are considering to changing theirs too. Obviously we're open to the new direction they might be heading.'

MIM: What will be the other changes?

Jan: 'In the next few months the new branding for the website will be complete and we'll have a completely new brochure.

We're also working together with the local convention bureaus on something special: a new brochure full of ideas, with about 100 incentives you can actually book in Flanders. We already made such a 'book of ideas' three years ago but we wanted to

MIM > Belgium > Convention Bureau

improve it and be more creative. We did a survey back then which showed that half of the people who read the brochure had ordered an incentive trip with one of the incentive houses mentioned in it. People look at one of those ideas and think: 'it's fun, so it'll be a creative organiser - let's go to him to talk about another project.'

With this brochure we meet the wishes of the Belgian events industry.

'Then we have the teaser brochure which will include info on how to reach every congress destination, what's the infrastructure like (capacity of the venues, hotels and their classification), and practical info and specific things about the town (for instance, an ideal town for meetings of up to 500 people). This will become available around June. That's also the time we'll be sending out a direct mail all over the world with our new logo.

'We have a new MICE assistant in the UK, and we'll also have one in New York shortly.

I would have liked to announce the names of the new marketing director and general administrator but the selection procedure for these positions is still going on. But as you can see, we're not standing still.'

MIM: Then the inevitable question. How are you feeling the crisis?

Jan: 'The crisis is not a cyclical but a structural crisis. The world economy has expanded enormously the past decades with new countries with large economic growth.

Measures need to be and are already being taken by the local governments. The world economy has to be reorientated, and banks need to work in a different type of structure and atmosphere. I believe we'll see a totally rescaped framework in which the worldwide economy will operate. Crucial decisions were made at the G20, but such a complex process will take time.

'Nevertheless, the crisis is hitting hard for many industries. In Belgium, statistics show that the hotel industry, airlines,… are losing business. Some say 30% less occupancy, which is enormous.

'But, we have to keep on going, even with smaller budgets, but maybe with a higher

level of creativity. The intake of foreign visitors may have slowed down, Belgiumbased corporations and associations still have to hold their meetings and want to save money by staying in Belgium, so the home country wins.

'Our international marketing plan currently has not been revised and we also keep investing in a cooperation with airlines and international partners. The growth of tourism to Flanders in 2008 is less then 1%, but many other countries in Europe have a decline of 8 to 11%. So we're not doing that bad. I think this is because our tourism model is quite flexible and this makes it less vulnerable.'

those holding a meeting in the heart of the city, the delegates can arrive by train and walk to their hotel. The SQUARE convention centre stressed the fact that no transfers were needed from the airport and between the hotels, which is an enormous saving and above all an environmentfriendly solution. So it sold like hot cakes, but now we're also stressing the green aspect and the fact that people can walk to their hotels.

'Once Antwerp has its renovated Flanders Congress & Concert Centre, it will be the same story. In a few years time you'll be able to take the fast train from Brussels Airport to Antwerp Central, walk around

Foreigners only know Brussels and Belgium, all the rest is far too complicated, that's why we chose this new name and fought for it MIM: Any other projects?

'Thanks to the Kunstactieplan and the corresponding budget that the Minister for Tourism, Mr Kris Peeters has reserved for it, four cities - Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp and Leuven - in close cooperation with Toerisme Vlaanderen have launched a project on green meetings. We'll investigate how corporate clients think about sustainability – green meetings: what does it mean to them? Afterwards, we would like to communicate the results of the report to the suppliers and we intend to attach a label to their venues and products.

'But don't forget, we already have an important sustainability department. We're very much into sustainability and quality care and we have a product that can meet those demands. The ‘groene sleutel’ is a project of Toerisme Vlaanderen in which a hotel or venue received an award for being sustainable.

'But don't forget that meetings in Brussels have a very environmental aspect. For

the corner and you're there. On top of that, all the hotels are at walking distance, so you save money and you're environment-minded.

'One of the three pillars of the MICE product is accessibility, infrastructure and tourist product. Therefore we're happy that Brussels Airlines has teamed up with Lufthansa and that they've joined StarAlliance, which has a strong official carrier programme. Belgium will be connected to the world better than ever. I hope more international flights will be added as well in a couple of years.

'Where companies are merging, meetings are needed, that's another certainty.

And definitely now, a lot of mergers are going on. But still, the meetings industry is treated in stepmotherly fashion, while it's exactly meeting that can make up for all the bad results. Doing nothing is wrong, so I say: Let's continue meeting!'

MIM 17

MIM > Belgium > Hotel

Don't be plain, B-Apart With the opening of the B-Apart Hotel Grand Place, the concept created in June 2008 ďŹ nishes the ďŹ rst stage in its existance.

B-Apart was created out of the former Europart hotels and the Hilton Residence. Except for the newest hotel at the Grand Place, which never was a hotel before and proved to be a challenging project. But given the result and its exceptional location it was surely worth overcoming those problems.

REDACTIE STEVEN KINS

What is an aparthotel?

Locations

Maybe a lot of you are already familiar with this concept. The idea is to combine the freedom and comfort of your own (little) appartment with a full hotel service.

Ideal for people who need to stay for a longer period of time or who just like to be really at ease.

All the B-Aparthotels are situated in or close to the city center of Brussels. An obvious choice giving the cities status as the capital of Europe, with all the governmental institutions, and as an international hub for a lot of companies.

The B-Aparthotels offer apartments that are fully furnished with quality materials like leather, marble and are lavishly decorated. So have no doubt that your stay will be very comfortable. Also hotel services like daily cleaning, changing linen and towels, shuttle services are provided.

MIM 18

Since the opening of the B-Aparthotel Grand'Place, there now are four BAparthotels in Brussels. All of them on quite strategic locations: Ambiorix, Grand'Place, Montgomery and Quartier Louise. In total they offer more than 150 rooms all over the city.

MIM > Belgium > Hotel

B-Grand'Place

B-Montgomery

This is the newest member of the B-Apart family which opened in Spring 2009. This hotel is located in the historical center of Brussels, next to the Grand Place and the famous wine and dine area of 'Rue des Bouchers'. You can spend your time in an apartment suite, an apartment with garden or in the penthouse with terrace, which offers a superb overview over Brussels.

An ideal location if you need to be close to the NATO or the European Commission Headquarters. Easy access with public transport and situated in a prestigious environment, overlooking the Square Montgomery.

Recently 8 extra luxury apartments have been added to this hotel.

B-Louise B-Ambiorix This complex was formerly known as the Hilton or Royal Residence. Situated in the residential area on the art-deco square Ambiorix, this hotel is close to the European quartier. It's also very close to the Parc du Cinquantenaire with its different musea.

The quartier Louise is known as the true shopping area of Brussels. With all major brands represented here, this is a little piece of paradise for the fashion addict.

But a nice selection of cosy bars and restaurants can be found here as well if you're not that shopping minded.

So if you need to be in Brussels for a comfortable short, medium or long-term stay, the B-Aparthotels are well worth considering.

Contact B-Aparthotels Telephone +32 (0)2 743 51 11 E-mail: reservations@b-aparthotels.com

MIM 19

MIM > Club Med Business

Club Med Business Interview with Kathy Thoeye Manager Club Med Business Belux

Club Med Business Belux is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2009.

That makes 25 years of being the essential partner for professional customized events put together with the necessary expertise and logistics. 25 years also equals 250,000 happy guests who appreciate the upscale, multicultural and convivial atmosphere.

INTERVIEW STEVEN KINS

Kathy Thoeye: 'Today, more than ever, Club Med Business wants to create an unforgettable experience in an exceptionnal setting to keep the motivation and fellowship among colleagues on a high level with a customized programme while staying within our client's budget.

'For the occasion we've put our new website online, which is really practical and user-friendly.'

MIM: Could you give a rough sketch of that impressive history?

Kathy: 'Before 1984 'Club Med Affaires' was only present in France. My director then came to me and said: 'There's a Belgian market that's open to seminars. Go to them.' We started off with very incentive oriented programmes. At first I was the only one representing Club Med Business in Belgium. I'll never forget my first contract: we went with L'Oréal to Senegal.

'In the beginning I felt the hesitation among the clients. They felt Club Med was too party-related. But step by step we won over more clients and they recommended us to their colleagues, and that's how we evolved.

The quality of our offer has also been improving since 2004, answering the needs of our Club Med Business clients even better.

'Later I got an assistant, then a sales person, and now there's six of us working in Brussels for the BeLux market. The B2B department is separate from the leisure department, has a separate budget, its own invoicing system, does the follow-up on the payments, and has a marketing strategy of its own, in cooperation with the general marketing manager, so you could say we're a separate company within Club Med.

MIM: What are the selling points of Club Med Business?

Kathy: 'In these difficult times we offer the opportunity to combine work and relaxation in the most pleasant way in qualitative destinations, either nearby or faraway. From Chamonix Mont-Blanc to Cancun Yucatán, over to Vittel - 80 Club Med Villages are there to welcome companies. Whether you're looking for snow, sun, adventure

MIM 20

MIM > Club Med Business

or a cruise, all tastes are catered for. And whatever destination you choose, a Club Med Business team will be at your disposal in any one of the villages. More than 30 villages have an infrastructure designed to cater for conferences: for example the Conference Centers of Opio en Provence or Marrakech La Palmeraie offer unique meeting infrastructures with specially adapted equipment that can accommodate up on to 600 people.

'People want to have a tight rein on their budgets, which makes an all-in formula - with or without transport included - an excellent alternative: catering, accommodation, meeting rooms, sporting activities and entertainment. Another competitive advantage is the convenience of having your group in one and the same infrastructure during the whole trip in order to create a personalized event combining original sports activities with moments of relaxation.

'Our offer meets the demands of our clients even better thanks to our professionalism, the quality of our à la carte services, the luxury and of course the conviviality.

'Some of our clients are afraid it's morally irresponsible to send their employees on an incentive trip in these uncertain times, but that's very much related to the image of the company in question. I, on the other hand, believe that now is the time to motivate your staff, so an incen-

better adapted to welcome groups. There's a Club Med Business team in the Brussels office, but also in the Village.'

MIM: Where does the Business department stand for the moment?

Kathy: 'CMB offers a whole spectrum of unique services for numerous projects: from the logistics of transportation to the stay and the creation and animation of your events, in a luxurious, congenial and stimulating setting. Our classification can be compared to stars for a hotel, we offer the same quality, but with a broader service, and with an all-in formula. Everything's on the same spot, in the same infrastructure, so you save time and that's what helps the decision in our favour. With us you know you won't surpass the budget because everything's included.

'We've also got better teambuilding facilities with a special Club Med Business G.O. or Gentil Organisateur, who takes excellent care of our guests or G.M. (Gentil Membre).

More and more villages are equipped with meeting rooms and convention centres, for example in Opio, Marrakech and Vittel. The basic equipment is already there but extra hardware can be furnished of course.

'What's also possible is privatizing a whole village and then we can adapt everything to the client's wishes. Of course, then you need to book a year in advance. That's done

People want to have a tight rein on their budgets, which makes an all-in formula an excellent alternative tive or teambuilding creates the perfect atmosphere to keep on going. People share new experiences that strengthen the team spirit and professional relationships. As for conferences, meetings and discussions take place in friendly and attractive settings.

In all cases the programme of activities is planned to bring participants together to focus on a common project.'

MIM: What might be people's prejudices against Club Med Business?

Kathy: 'Some people still think that Club Med is only for family holidays, but Club Med Business keeps on developing further and infrastructures in the Villages get

more often than you might think. Especially Opio is an attractive destination for this.

For example, a car manufacturer that wants to present a new model rents the whole Village for 'Back to Back' groups.

MIM: If a client doesn't want to privatize the whole place, are there still options to personalize the experience?

Kathy: 'We adapt ourselves to the client's needs: a personalized reception by one of our CMB experts, a private cocktail on an idyllic location somewhere in the village, privatized tables or even a whole restaurant, exclusive teambuilding and sports activities or excursions for the

group... We also work with local DMCs if the programme needs to be personalized to the client's wishes.'

MIM: What does 2009 have to offer?

Kathy: 'For our 25th anniversary we can offer three exclusive special packages in Vittel Le Parc, in Opio en Provence and onboard the Club Med 2, and those are definitely worth a look. And then of course there's our new website www.clubmed.be/business where you can find detailed information about the Club Med Business services, news updates, special offers and a contact form to get in touch with the CMB team.

'We keep on working on our upscale offer and as a result we've just inaugurated our first five tridents Club Villages: La Plantation d’Albion in Mauritius, the Marrakech Riad, and the Club Med 2 five-master.

'In 2010 we'll open a new resort in Tabat, and for 2011 new projects are planned in Sarabah, Senegal, in Bouzios, Brazil, and a new ski resort in Valmorel, France, so the future is still bright.'

Contact: Club Med Business cmb-belgium@clubmed.com www.clubmed.be/business T: + 32 (0)2 535 25 20

MIM 21

MIM > London

the TASTY city where meetings mean more

Houses of Parliament

T5

They say that the way to a Belgian’s heart is through his stomach. And especially for Belgian meetings and event groups this is oh so true: feed them well and they will end up as a satisfied crowd.

REPORT CÉCILE CAIATI-KOCH

Caldesi

Dover Street Jazz Bar

London prides itself on being built on centuries of trade, talent and ideas. It has grown to be well-connected, cosmopolitan, culturally open and cutting edge. But what about its reputation as a gourmet destination? In order to find out, we went to London taking part in their Gateway Gourmet trip.

London Gateway and Terminal 5 (T5)

Borough Market

MIM 22

This time we flew to London although the services of EUROSTAR are also a good option as you get to the heart of the city straightaway. But London wanted to show us the brand-new T5 at Heathrow so we traveled with their national airline, BA

(www.britishairways.com). We arrived in the buzzing and light, airy building which has been organized in such a way that queuing is history and passengers can opt for a swift continuation of their trip or for a little pause to relax, shop or work. And T5 has been designed to ensure that it is easy for passengers to find their way through the building.

Even at T5 you can discover the gourmet spots like the one we visited, Carluccios.

Real Italian caffè and food is offered with a warm smile, while fresh, delicious dishes are one of their main assets. (If you come

by Eurostar, they also have a restaurant at St Pancras International station).

MIM > London

LONDON HEATHROW AREA Since quite some time, the area around London Heathrow International Airport has developed itself into a busy place, and a lot of companies have also settled down in the neighbourhood. So the presence of the airport and of a growing number of companies incited hotels to be present as well. We have enjoyed three of them, each very specific and with its own character.

The Renaissance London Heathrow is a nice looking ladylike hotel with a completely renovated ground floor that gives a new dimension to the hotel, space and light abound in contemporary furnishings. But that's not the only asset, the hotel offers a splendid view on the main runway of the airport to be seen from the soundproofed guest rooms or exclusive Club Lounge.

Its younger sister, the London Heathrow Marriott Hotel is a modern hotel with a huge lounge which they managed to furnish in such a way that you still have the 'warm cosiness of a house feeling', besides that the hotels has a lot of flexible event and meeting space. One of their assets is the really good food they offer.

We had our diner in restaurant Brasserie Centrale and I can tell you that I really was impressed by the delicious meal and wine they served us.

The last hotel we visited was the brandnew Sofitel London Heathrow, a real oasis of luxury and beautiful design. For meetings the offer is grand; 45 meeting rooms, a Lecture Theatre with widescreen cinema and 3 high level boardrooms. These last ones give out onto the zen garden, a beautiful place to stroll and relax. Marie invited us for a tea tasting - to me that was something new. I tasted at least six differ-

ent flavours and the tea master explained to me that the tea I liked most was handpicked early in the morning. I closed my eyes and felt like I was on a misty morning in the tea gardens in India, a great experience. The tea tasting can be offered to groups as well.

LONDON: FOOD TO IMPRESS Chloé of Visit London had prepared a wide scale of different places and experiences for us in order to discover the delicacies, whether it be French, Italian or English.

She explained that the city offers an evergrowing array of options for satisfying the palates of groups. Here is the selection she prepared us:

Capacity: restaurant up to 100 persons, river view reception area up to 50 persons standing Food Tours by Celia Brooks Brown American born Celia is known in the UK as an author of New Vegetarian. She came to the UK to work in a theatre but soon found out that her real passion was food. Now she combines the entertainment and performance art with her food knowledge and organizes Celia’s Gastrotours. According to the client’s wishes she gives them a unique opportunity to join her in her insider’s view of London vibrant culinary hotspots. She has excellent contacts with passionate foodies and producers.

Groups up to 15 pax

Green and Blacks Chocolate on the London Eye One hour of enjoying and tasting chocolate during two rounds of the London Eye and meanwhile learning all about the origin and intensities of the chocolate explained by the lovely girls of this organic and fair-trade chocolate house based in London. Whether you go for white chocolate or the 85% dark one, it's an experience on its own.

Capacity: per London Eye booth 20 persons max.

Dover Street Bar Like some music for entertainment? The Dover Street bar is the trendy jazzy place to be. Groups can have their seats in a more secluded place but still enjoy the jazzy looking musicians (wearing sunglasses to make the look perfect). Note however that the live music only starts at 10.30 pm.

During dinner they play all kinds of nice music, and after dinner the dancefloor is open to all.

Groups up to 120 pax

Skylon Restaurant on the Thames Also located on the borders of the Thames, restaurant Skylon offers a spectacular panorama of London’s skyline with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the river. The staff is dressed in 50s clothing which adds to the nice ambiance. The place is also known for its cocktails and has a beautiful terrace which can be privatized in summertime.

Harvey Nichols Not only has this flagship store a delicious Fifth Floor Foodmarket, with a wide range of the world’s best suppliers as well as their own products, but we really got impressed by their fabulous Fifth Floor restaurant and Fifth Floor Bar. The oval room is completely decorated in white and the artistic way of using light gives this place an attractive atmosphere. The bar is

MIM 23

Grosvenor House Afternoon tea, Park Room

Renaissance

Harvey Nichols Celia Brooks Brown Market

more colourful and modern looking with a cozy corner for about eight people where you really feel on top of the world, or at least of London...

Caldesi in Campagna, which is in this case in Bray A private car from the Tristar firm then brought us to the lovely village of Bray. As the famous Giancarlo Caldesi had a flue, he had another Italian cook flown over in order to prepare in front of us Italian specialities inspired by the regions of Sicily, Tuscany and Liguria. The place has been opened just recently (very close to the Fat Duck) and inspires a real charm and sumptuous contemporary ambiance. After a lunch in this restaurant you indeed would want to stretch your legs in the beautiful countryside of Bray with its thatched houses and long and winding streets. The cook also organizes cooking workshops in the centre of London.

Two Sister hotels in the Mayfair district of London A good feeling and good food must mean you should be sleeping well too. We visited two hotels in the posh area of the Mayfair district, both classy and belonging to the same family but in completely different styles.

The Marriott, London Grosvenor Square has kept its art nouveau design but was recently given a modern look. I just loved it.

The bar of the hotel is busy and very lively.

The rooms are all very nice and I give you one tip: book the rooms facing the inner yard for your group - these rooms have

Chocolate Tasting Capsule

London prides itself on being built on centuries of trade, talent and ideas.

But what about its reputation as a gourmet destination?

Grosvenor Square

Fifth Floor Restaurant

terraces! The former garage has just been changed into new meeting rooms, and the restaurant 'maze' is one of Gordon Ramsay’s triumphs.

Grosvenor House, a JW Marriott Hotel London is just a stroll over the park away.

It truly is a top quality hotel (5* deluxe) where famous people used to come and nowadays a lot of big events still take place in this hotel. Indeed it has three luxurious ballrooms and the Great Room which used to be an ice rink in the 20s. It's one of the largest hotel conference and banqueting venues in the whole of Europe with a capacity of 1500 guests. But smaller groups will also find their liking in the very nice smaller rooms. One tip for this hotel: enjoy their afternoon tea, a must!

Sofitel T5 Zen Garden

Visit London Business Team 6th Floor 2 More London Riverside London SE1 2RR T: +44 (0)20 7234 5833 eventsolutions@visitlondon.com visitlondon.com/business

Greentomato Let’s finish this article by a touch of green: Visit London endorses the Green environment and therefore works with a company called Greentomato for all its transports.

You will agree that their name really hits the mark in this gourmet article.

MIM 25

KINEPOLIS Gaan zakendoen en ontspanning samen? Bij Kinepolis alvast wel! De 10 Belgische Kinepolis-bioscopen zijn stuk voor stuk toplocaties voor al uw business events. Hoogtechnologische geluids- en beeldinstallaties, digitale projectoren, flexibele zaalkeuze en comfortabele zetels, catering op maat door de ervaren professionals van J&M Catering, aangepaste receptieruimtes…

Kinepolis biedt u alle troeven die u van een businesscentrum verwacht.

En in combinatie met een film of animatie, kan uw event helemaal niet meer stuk. Bovendien liggen onze bioscopen verspreid over het hele land waardoor uw genodigden snel en vlot ter plaatse geraken.

Les affaires et les loisirs sont-ils compatibles ? Ils le sont en tout cas à Kinepolis. Chacun des 10 cinémas Kinepolis vous offre le cadre idéal pour tous vos événements professionnels. Des équipements audiovisuels hautement technologiques, des projecteurs digitaux, une grande flexibilité quant au choix des salles, des fauteuils confortables, du catering sur mesure préparé par les professionnels expérimentés de J&M Catering, des salles de réception adaptées à votre groupe... Kinepolis vous propose tous les atouts que vous attendez d’un centre d’affaires.

Ajoutez-y un film et le succès sera au rendez-vous. De plus, nos cinémas, dispersés sur tout le territoire du pays, sont facilement accessibles.

Where business meets pleasure

Info: www.business.kinepolis.be Katelijne Lindner – business@kinepolis.com – 09 241 01 61

50231_Ad_Loc_MIM.indd 1

06-04-2009 09:46:36

MIM > Lisbon

MIM magazine and Lisbon have a long-standing relationship.

It’s normal: in the Portuguese capital, there are always changes worth writing about.

Let’s find out what’s new in Lisbon this time around!.

Postcards from

Lisbon

Parque Eduardo VII

A must-see destination

Lisbon Accommodation at its best

The Portuguese capital has been included in ‘Best in Travel 2009’, a tourist guide edited by Lonely Planet, as one of the top ten cities in the world to visit.

Considered an ideal destination for people who are looking for an urban experience, Lisbon is described as a city that ‘combines Old World charm with youthful vibrancy.’ The emphasis is laid on the discovery of the city through its Santos Populares festivities, its various festivals and the daily cultural events, along with the simmering of conversations in cafés and the restaurants, described as a ‘gourmet dream’.

Penha Longa Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, Albatroz Hotel and Palace, Bairro Alto Hotel, Ritz Four Seasons and Lapa Palace are included in the Top 100 hotels in the world voted by Condé Nast Traveller’s readers. The list, published in November ranked the Penha Longa Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort in Sintra as the best of the 25 best resorts in Europe, receiving the most votes from the 32,500 readers who took part. The five-star establishment came 51st in the world ranking.

En route to Lisbon From June 2009, Lisboa will enjoy direct and regular flights to Moscow, Warsaw and Helsinki on Portuguese airline company TAP. According to Luiz Mor, executive vice-president of TAP, the three new routes will be served by five weekly flights, which, in the summer high season, could increase to seven. 50,000 visitors from these areas are expected in 2009.

From July 2009, Boston will be served by a daily SATA International flight to Lisbon. The same company will also run five flights a week between Toronto and Lisbon, starting from summer next year.

Exclusive hotels renovated In the past year, hotels in Lisbon have renovated both their physical spaces and the services they provide, in order to keep up not only with the demands of the market, but also with new aesthetic and lifestyle trends. The Tivoli chain refurbished its Tivoli Lisboa and Tivoli Jardim hotels. In the Tivoli Lisboa hotel, the meeting areas now contain multi-purpose rooms equipped with the most up-to-date technology. The Tivoli Jardim hotel now has 119 rooms, a restaurant and several meeting rooms.

Corinthia Hotel Lisbon, home to the largest congress centre in a hotel of this category, has also invested in renovations

and now houses the largest spa in the country. Similarly, the Dom Pedro Palace now boasts a sumptuous day spa. The new Altis Belém Hotel & Spa is due to open soon. With a prime location at the Bom Sucesso Dock on the River Tagus, this charming five-star hotel has 45 rooms, 5 suites, and several meeting rooms.

Located close to the Centro Cultural de Belém and the Centro de Congressos de Lisboa, the Altis Belém is an ideal venue for meetings of any kind, with its three flexible, fully equipped rooms. The hotel's gardens are also available for outdoor events.

CONTACT Lisboa Convention Bureau Rua do Arsenal, 15 1100-038 Lisboa Tel +351 210 312 700, Fax +351 210 312 899 atl@visitlisboa.com www.visitlisboa.com

MIM 27

09:46:36

MIM > Algarve

The Algarve Class act

If you're looking for a quality destination for your next event, look no further than the Algarve The images of the Algarve that immediately come to people’s mind are usually sun, sea, sand, golf and holidays. In recent years however, the region has made great strides in also convincing the business sector that it has a lot to offer, and it is now equally recognised as an ideal location for conferences, incentives and special events, attracting such prestigious international names as Porsche, Clarins, Hewlett Packard, Pepsi, Pfizer, KPMG, Microsoft and Chrysler.

TEXT STEVEN KINS

The Algarve makes the most of its natural assets, such as fabulous weather and some of the best beaches in Europe, but its man-made assets, including quality hotels and world-famous golf courses, are just as impressive. Add on easy access to Faro airport from various international departure points, a wide range of meeting facilities (see ‘Meet and Greet’), numerous out-of-hours activities, excellent value for money and the genuinely friendly attitude of the Portuguese, and it is easy to see the increasing appeal of the Algarve to event organisers.

The region has been a popular leisure

MIM 28

destination since the 1960s, and whilst, almost inevitably, some parts have become very commercialised, the Algarve has more than its fair share of unabashed luxury, from exclusive areas such as Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago to modern marinas, five-star hotels, lavish spas and chic restaurants, and it is keen to maintain a reputation for quality, sustainable tourism – an obvious selling point as far as the MICE industry is concerned.

If your perception of the Algarve therefore is predominantly as a mass tourism destination, it is perhaps time to think again. If you are looking for the only

MIM > Algarve

two-Michelin star restaurant in Portugal, luxury yacht charter for your top clients, exotic Arabian tents on the beach, or an all-suite hotel owned by one of the world’s most famous footballers, you’ll find them all - along with a lot more surprises - in the Algarve. And with the new Algarve perfectly complementing the older, more traditional Algarve, the region offers a huge range of options for organisers of all types of events, from major conferences and product launches to exclusive incentives and VIP events.

Variety The Algarve has other advantages. Unlike a lot of its competitors for instance, this is no crowded holiday hot-spot that goes to sleep in the winter, but a true year-round destination with regular flights and an affluent permanent population who enjoy the finer things in life.

The Algarve has bustling, atmospheric towns with a life beyond that of serving tourists, a rich history and culture going back to the days of Moorish occupation and beyond, a lively and thriving arts and entertainment scene, and - with over 200 kilometres of superb beaches and the

hinterland of the Monchique mountains plenty of space.

The Algarve also offers incredible variety.

The western Algarve is a land of seafarers and explorers, busy ports and picturesque fishing villages, and yet also contains some of the Algarve’s most luxurious hotels and its newest convention centre. Albufeira, in the centre of the region, has been in the vanguard of tourism development, and is the undisputed entertainment capital of the Algarve, whilst Vilamoura is a golfer’s paradise, with no less than six international-standard courses and a high concentration of meeting facilities and hotel rooms, the latter all within walking distance of the town’s famous marina and casino. And Tavira and the eastern Algarve is personified by historic towns, unbroken lines of sand dunes and the protected environment of the Ria Formosa national park.

It is, naturally, impossible to talk about the Algarve without mentioning golf, a major attraction for conference organisers. The region is justifiably famous for its golf courses – 32 at the last count, offering almost every style, layout and playing standard possible to suit all levels of skill and experience, and including renowned

names such as Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo, Penina, Alto and Vilamoura.

The list of famous course designers in the region – including Robert Trent Jones, Henry Cotton and Arnold Palmer – will soon see Nick Faldo and Christy O’Connor Jnr. join their ranks, as the former players have combined their skills to oversee two new courses taking shape at the Amendoeira resort near Silves. Seve Ballesteros meanwhile has helped design the new Quinta do Vale course opening soon by the banks of the river Guadiana in the East Algarve, close to the border with Spain, as this part of the region also starts to develop quality tourism.

Working closely with the major hotels or leading destination management companies in the Algarve, it is fairly straightforward to negotiate special rates and tee-off times, even at some of the most popular courses. A round of golf can easily be worked into the busiest conference schedule (there are also several nine-hole courses if time is tight), and the Algarve is an excellent destination for holding your own golf-orientated event, incentive or company tournament. With an ideal climate – not too hot in summer and mild in

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MIM > Algarve

left: Arade Pavilion in Parchal top: Portimao Arena

winter, with around 300 days of sunshine a year – the attraction is obvious, particularly to northern Europeans who are more used to shivering on courses at home.

Luxury If your delegates are not interested in golf, how about tennis, watersports, sailing, karting, horse riding, hot air ballooning, helicopter rides, flying, jeep safaris, treasure hunts, quad biking or a range of teambuilding activities to incentivise them, and keep them occupied outside of the meeting room? For luxury at a leisurely pace, you can hire private yachts from several hotels for small groups, and go sailing.

Dine onboard, call into a quiet cove for an alfresco lunch, or drop anchor at one of the many upmarket restaurants along the coast. Some hotels also produce their own wines and have wine cellars where tastings and private dinners can be held.

Also starting to gain a reputation for itself in the corporate market is Zoomarine, the Algarve’s leading aqua park. Larger groups can be accommodated for special floodlit shows, and visitors are encouraged to take part by swimming with the dolphins – a magical experience.

Looking for more ideas? Both Vilamoura and Praia da Rocha have casinos, with regularly-changing evening entertainment and a choice of gambling options, including roulette, poker, blackjack and slot machines. Gala dinners can be held at both venues, either as part of the set show programme or as private events, and

MIM 30

casino evenings are always popular with off-duty delegates seeking the thrill of placing a bet.

For a laid-back lunch outdoors or sunset cocktails in glamorous surroundings, head for a beach club, where after a gruelling session in the conference room your delegates can unwind by lounging around, jet-set style, on huge white cushions under Arabian tents as they enjoy al fresco dining or sipping something long, cool and preferably alcoholic. Or for something more in keeping with older local traditions, try wine tasting or an Algarvean, medieval or Moorish themed reception or dinner in a palace, castle, convent or – in the case of Fabrica do Ingles in Silves – a former cork factory. Where better to raise a glass in celebration? And if you have partner programmes to plan, the Algarve has Moorish castles to visit, mountain villages to explore, aquatic shows to enjoy and vineyards to tour, amongst many other sights and attractions.

One last possible misconception to address is the notion that the Algarve perhaps only appeals to the more mature, management-level market, rather than somewhere that would necessarily attract a younger, fun-seeking group such as a competitive sales force. That may have been the case in the past, but these days, nothing could be further from the truth.

The region has more than its fair share of bars, clubs and discos to cater for delegates looking to let off some steam after hours, and like the cruising industry, the

Algarve’s age-demographic is changing, helped by the arrival of trendy boutique hotels such as Suites Alba (owned by footballing legend Luis Figo) and the growing reputation of the region’s Michelinstarred restaurants. If it’s glitz, glamour and A-list celebrities you are after, the likes of David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo are often seen at the Algarve’s smartest beach restaurants, sports stars from all disciplines are regulars on the Algarve’s golf courses, and Nikki Beach – famous for its über-trendy beach bars from Miami to Marbella - opened last year in Vilamoura and Portimao.

If you or your delegates are looking to rub shoulders with the rich and famous, the Algarve is the place to be.

New hotels due to open in the Algarve include the Tivoli Victoria in Vilamoura, planned for November this year. With 280 rooms and suites, 900 sq. metres of meeting space and a range of spa and leisure facilities, it will overlook the Arnold Palmer-designed Victoria Golf Course.

Conrad meanwhile plans to open its first resort hotel in Europe at Quinta do Lago in 2010. The new property will feature 158 rooms, 1400 sq. metres of meeting space, and a luxury spa, and bring another internationally-recognised brand into the region.

As part of the Algarve’s strategy of concentrating on encouraging quality tourism, a number of other projects are on the drawing board, including plans and propos-

MIM > Algarve

Meet and greet

This is no crowded holiday hot-spot that goes to sleep in the winter, but a true yearround destination with regular flights als for top hotels as part of multi-use golf and resort developments at Amendoeira and Gramacho (both by Pestana), Pateiro, Praia Grande, Aljezur, Praia da Marinha, Palmares and Altura.

Six Senses has announced it will operate no less than three new hotels at its new luxury project at Corte Velho, whilst the Grand Real group is set to open its second property in the region, in Olhao, in 2009.

Also under construction is a Crowne Plaza in Albufeira, and there are plans for a Radisson SAS hotel as part of the new motor racing circuit near Portimao.

Venues As well as a wide range of hotels, the Algarve also offers a variety of stand-alone venues for meetings, special events, product launches, awards ceremonies, sporting get-togethers or cultural gatherings.

The Arade Pavilion in Parchal, near Lagoa, is the Algarve’s first stand-alone conference and exhibition centre, opened in November 2007. It is designed for conferences up to 1000 delegates and features a splendid purpose-built auditorium. With an additional 1000 sq. metres of flexible space, it will also host exhibitions, concerts, cultural events, product launches and fashion shows.

Similarly multi-purpose, the Portimao Arena is a vast domed structure that has housed a series of business, cultural and sporting events since it opened in 2006. The 4000 sq metre central area has retractable seating, making it equally

As an established conference destination, the Algarve has an excellent selection of hotels and venues for all types of events. In addition to leading international names such as Sheraton and Hilton, organisers can also choose from a range of hotels operated by top Portuguese companies such as Pestana, Dom Pedro, Tivoli, Vila Galé and CS. From large business-orientated hotels and famous golfing venues to designer hotels and all-suite properties, the Algarve is capable of meeting almost any event requirement. Leading hotels in the four- and five-star categories include: • The Vila Galé Tavira - close to the centre of the charming town of the same name, with 262 rooms and meeting space for up to 500.

• The Hotel Quinta do Lago, with views out to the Ria Formosa nature reserve, is one of the Leading Hotels of the World, and includes 141 rooms, meeting space for up to 200, and a spa, and is adjacent to both of the Quinta do Lago golf courses.

• Le Meridien Dona Filipa, part of the Vale do Lobo resort, has 154 rooms and meeting space for up to 600.

• The Tivoli Marinotel, overlooking the marina in Vilamoura, has the most extensive hotel conference facilities in the Algarve, taking up to 1200 in its largest room. The hotel also has 383 bedrooms and seven restaurants.

• The Lake Resort in Vilamoura blends Middle East and Mediterranean styles in its bars, restaurants and spa. It has 192 bedrooms and meeting space for 190.

• Another Leading Hotel of the World, the Vila Sol is adjacent to the golf course of the same name. The hotel has 189 rooms, meeting space for up to 450 and a spa.

• Dom Pedro offers three distinct properties in Vilamoura, all within walking distance of each other and the marina. The Dom Pedro Golf & Forum Conference Centre has 263 bedrooms and includes the purpose-built Forum Conference Centre, which seats up to 500. The Dom Pedro Marina has 155 bedrooms, whilst the Dom Pedro Portobelo has 138 private apartments.

• The latest addition to Vilamoura’s facilities is the Hilton Vilamoura, situated between the Old Course and the Pinhal golf course, comprising 160 bedrooms, spa and residential apartments.

suitable for large-scale events, shows, concerts and sports tournaments as well as exhibitions, and is complemented by a range of meeting rooms, including a 190seat auditorium.

Vale do Lobo’s auditorium meanwhile is a flexible, modern venue for meetings of up to 400, whilst the grounds of the resort are ideal for large outdoor gala dinners and events, catering and entertaining up to 1000 people. A regular programme

• The Grande Real Santa Eulalia sits above Santa Eulalia beach, and has 189 rooms, 155 resort suites and meeting space for up to 800, together with an exclusive night club and fine dining facility, Le Club.

• Vila Joya is a small, exclusive hotel of just 17 bedrooms and suites, ideal for incentives, and boasts Portugal’s only restaurant with two Michelin stars as well as an ayurvedic spa.

• The designer-style CS Sao Rafael, overlooking the beach of the same name outside Albufeira, has 105 rooms, a meeting capacity of 180, and a spa.

• The Thalassa Vilalara in Porches is set in landscaped gardens overlooking the sea. With 131 rooms and small meeting facilities, it is an ideal incentive hotel, boasting a thalassotherapy spa, gourmet dining and a range of sports and activities.

• Vila Vita Parc, adjacent to the Vilalara, has 160 rooms, suites and apartments, including two private adjoining luxury villas for VIP use. A Leading Hotel of the World, it also has a spa, plus meeting space for up to 450.

• Le Meridien Penina has a world-famous golf course designed by Sir Henry Cotton, 196 bedrooms and meeting space for up to 410. Poolside events take place beside the biggest hotel swimming pool in the Algarve.

• The Tivoli Almansor, perched above Carvoeiro, has 293 bedrooms and 10 meeting rooms, seating up to 900 people.

• The Hotel Algarve Casino in Praia da Rocha looks out over one of the Algarve’s largest beaches, and has 193 rooms, meeting space for up to 340, and its own casino.

• The Pestana Alvor Praia is located on Tres Irmaos beach, and has 195 rooms and a conference capacity

of concerts, across all musical genres, is staged every summer, whilst entertainment can also be developed to meet specific requirements.

CONTACT Elia Freitas MICE Product Manager Algarve Promotion Bureau Tel: (+351) 289 800 402 Fax: (+351) 289 800 466 efreitas@atalgarve.pt www.visitalgarve.pt

MIM 31

Networking evening of Evenement 09

événement FRANCE 09 For the third year in a row Maison de la France and its partners, Air France and SNCF (French railways), invited 170 meeting and incentive agencies, event organizers and members of the press, among which MIMmagazine's very own representative, for événement France 09 on 4-7 February in Paris.

The whole idea was to show how surprising a stay in France might be.

Dome of Brasserie Printemps

Networking evening in Le Printemps

Marianne Impens and Erik Schorreels were two of the invitees

Entrance Hotel Lutetia

The visitors were then taken to the Bedouk fair to discover the diversity of the French offer, after which everyone gathered underneath the dome of Brasserie Le Printemps for a French Gallery evening. Hotel Lutetia guaranteed a good night's rest afterwards. Ten destinations then invited the guests to discover either Biarritz, Bordeaux, Calais, Cannes, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Paris, Strasbourg or Les Yvelines.

Bedouk

MIM 33

THE INCENTIVE TRENDS ISSUE IS COMING! The next edition of MIM magazine is the wellknown yearbook which will bring you up to date on all the latest trends in the incentive market.

Frequent readers already know they can expect a round table discussion with the incentive houses about all the current issues in the meetings industry.

But this year we also brought in representatives of airline and cruise companies. Prepare yourself for some new insights and behind the scenes info about the meetings industry.

Further on in this issue you will find a corporate interview, new and upcoming destinations, innovative ideas for your future incentive trips and all the info you might need on incentive houses and cruise companies.

Like each year you will want to save this trend book for future reference.

‘I subscribed to MIM Magazine because it’s always packed with useful ideas’ Anouk Verlinden, Production and Event Manager of ISMAR Healthcare NV

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Go to www.MIMmagazine.eu to read frequently updated news, to fill out an online subscription, or to read past editions of MIM magazine online.

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21-04-2009 16:47:15

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