The MICE Report 2013

VOL 4 / NO 1 £2.45 / €4.50

The 2012 MICE Report Awards And the winner is…

The international industry’s top destinations, suppliers and management companies

DMCs

Local knowledge and key contacts: The benefits of partnering with a top Destination Management Company

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Capital conferences and inspired incentives in the cultural heart of the continent Amsterdam Athens Budapest Oslo Rimini Z agreb

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72 Editor Cliff James

Editorial Team Cliff James Caroline Branwell Ed Carpenter Peter Morrin Neil Walden

Design & Print Production inkCap design

Advertising Sales James Stone Tom Carter Peter Jones

Publishing Director Julian Bonny

Finance Director Cover photo: Shutterstock. Editorial photos: Shutterstock, iStockphoto.com

Andrew Lidstone

Subscriptions Manager Daisy Mills

Published by Raellen Communications Ltd 2nd Floor, 145-157 St John Street London EC1V 4PY United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 208 654 8853

Newsagents please contact

Editor’s Letter T

alent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships – so claimed the multi-awardwinning basketball player Michael Jordan. It may seem a surprisingly modest statement from the one man widely acknowledged as the greatest athlete of the last century, but Jordan is stating a universal truth: success is never a solitary achievement; it requires smart cooperation from a gifted team to get to the top.

As the eagerly anticipated results of The MICE Report Awards 2012 are finally revealed in this bumper edition, it is clear that the distinguished winners in each category have also reached the top of their game through a combination of natural talent, intelligent planning and effective teamwork. Nominated by industry professionals through an intensely contested competition, these celebrated annual awards cast a spotlight on the world’s finest international MICE providers.

Bringing together an extensive range of features on these award-winning venues as well as the upand-coming stars of tomorrow, this edition of The MICE Report takes a five-star tour through some of the world’s most luxurious conference hotels. From the indulgent relaxation rooms of the Hilton Madrid Airport, mouth-watering banquets in the immense ballroom of the Grand Cevahir Hotel in Istanbul, to the palatial decadence of the Labadi Beach Hotel in Ghana, we have netted a world-class team of superstar venues.

The scope of top-range MICE destinations is equally global in this edition, as we explore opportunities for premium incentive travel and conferencing in prize locations, from the stunning beach paradise of Trinidad and Tobago, Olympic-class sporting facilities in Oslo, to the unbeatable MICE muscle of brand Barcelona. Intelligent teamwork is undoubtedly the key to success of medal-winning convention bureaus and DMCs, and we investigate the champions of the league, including Cyprus’s CPC and Japan’s triumphant Sendai Convention Bureau. And finally, as the MICE experience becomes evermore interactive and interconnected, we report on the title holders of pioneering innovation, including EventMobi and twoppy.

Cliff James

W.E. Saarbach GmbH Tel +49 2233 79963

All rights reserved. All material in the MICE report is wholly copyrighted and reproduction without the written permission of the publisher is strictly forbidden. The views expressed in this publication are entirely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of Raellen Communications Ltd. The information in this publication is carefully researched and produced in good faith. However, neither the publisher nor the editors accept responsibility for any errors

theMICEreport l 3

Contents 52 Destinations

Cities are 88European Up and Looking East

Emerging opportunities in the Eastern Economies amsterdam

101Hotel Okura Amsterdam 102A Dutch Alliance 99Classical Amsterdam

Five-star facilities in the hospitable heart of Amsterdam A capital collaboration between Amsterdam Rai and KLM Culture and conferencing in the Venice of the North

athens

104

The Birthplace of Western Civilization

Cultural conferencing in Athens, City of The Gods darmstadt

122Darmstadt – City of Science The perfect destination for intelligent events oslo

118

Global Oslo The blue, the green and the capital

in between

barcelona

moscow

92Unbeatable Brand Barcelona

Classical culture and world-class conferencing in The Third Rome

sardinia

144Magnificent Moscow Eccelsa Excellence The Radisson Royal Hotel 14 148 146World Trade Centre 82Turkish Delight Antalya: Heaven on Earth The Pearl of the Danube 78 114 Grand Cevahir Hotel 116InterContinental Budapest 84 The WOW Factor 86 96Rimini Palacongressi 76Inspirational Istanbul The award-winning conference hotel

in Moscow

Award-winning city with an awardwinning MICE team

Award-winning service at the Costa Smeralda turkey

World-class MICE solutions in a world-class centre budapest

Budapest: the best of every world

in one city

Award-winning venue in the most beautiful city in Central Europe rimini

The advent of Italy’s largest dedicated conference centre

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Relax, refresh and rejuvenate at the delicious D-Hotel Maris The rising star of the eastern Mediterranean

Winner of the Best Luxury Business Hotel in Turkey Copious capacity at Istanbul’s largest hotel and convention centre Conferencing in the classic capital of the world

croatia

106Fascinating Zagreb 110Croatia Airlines

Conferencing in the City of a Million Hearts

Flying the award-winning flag of Croatia Airlines czech republic

42The Republic of Culture Meetings in the 132Green Land of Ice and Fire

Exceptional events in the Czech Republic

iceland

Harpa – The Best Conference Venue in Northern Europe

130Inspirational Iceland

Incentive heaven in the Land of Myth

and Legend boston

72Booming Boston

The Athens of America, the best convention bureau on the continent sendai

134Sendai Convention Bureau Award-winning service in The City

of Trees

hong kong

Kong Opulence 52Hong

by Rhombus Meetings solutions in the vibrant heart of Hong Kong Trinidad and tobago

136Trinidad and Tobago

Energy, diversity and a dream service in the Caribbean

92

“Barcelona boasts some of the world’s most cutting-edge facilities, a service-led enterprising spirit, and a truly unforgettable cityscape”

hotels

150 39Fairmont Hotels and Resorts Vilamoura As 141Hilton Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa 48Luxury in the Land of the Sun 158Hotel Principe di Savoia 46Simply the Best 54Great Hotels of the World 50Labadi Beach Hotel View from the 120The Top of the World Hilton Madrid Airport

Madrid’s avant-garde masterpiece

Stress-free events in legendary locations

Perfect relaxation in a Portuguese paradise Superior service in Lagos’s Federal Palace Hotel and Casino

A MICE masterpiece in the heart

of Milan

Best Western – Best Business Hotel Group in Germany

Growing trends in the international MICE market Winner of the Best Luxury Hotel in West Africa

Voksenåsen – Best Conference Hotel in Scandinavia

128Absolute Arcona The Garden 142Oitavos: of Earthly Delights

Best Conference Hotel Group

in Germany

Winner of the Best Conference Hotel in Portugal

meetings

18A Matter of Time 22Mind Your Manners the 36Empowering Knowledge Economy

Top tips for ensuring that meetings start on time Career-saving etiquette for business-social events

The changing face of meetings in a hyperconnected universe

32 35twoppy – King of the Apps Event Revolution

Transforming events with the award-winning EventMobi

Best Mobile Event Software Provider

30 conference venues

Knowledge, Global 28Local Know-How

Venuesworld™ – Best Online MICE Solutions Provider

16A Hard Act to Follow 112K3 Kongress in Kitzbühel Bregenz 126The Festival House Hard Rock International - Best International MICE Venue Brand

Destination Management Companies

Award-winning conferencing in the Alpine sports city

Benefitting from an extra pair of expert hands

Sustainable conferencing overlooking Lake Constance

Award-winning events on the Island of Aphrodite

events

Management 58Destination Companies (DMCs) 64CPC Events 66All Points North 70Making an IMPACT Extraordinary experiences with Scandinavian Incentives

Alberto G. Cavallo, Managing Director of IMPACT Event & Destination Management

30EIBTM – The Event of Events 152IMEX Frankfurt 2013 Business 154The Travel Show Barcelona hosts the MICE industry’s event of the year

10th anniversary of the essential event of the year

The must-attend event for MICE professionals

theMICEreport l 5

awards

And the winner is‌

The prestigious MICE Report Awards are bestowed annually to recognise excellence and outstanding distinction in the meetings, incentive and business travel industry. Administered by The MICE Report, these prominent awards acknowledge and showcase those leading organisations whose innovative products, state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional services epitomise the pinnacle of quality in the world-wide MICE industry.

As an exclusive accolade in the world of business travel, nominations for The MICE Report Awards are garnered globally through an intensely contested online competition. An extensive range of influential industry voters participate in the nomination process, including key corporate decision-makers, solution providers in the MICE industry, first- and business-class travellers, and planners of international conferences and events, ensuring that only the most commendable organisations are truly deserving of The MICE Report Awards.

Turn over for our full list of winners

6 l theMICEreport

*watch this space

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awards Grand Cevahir Hotel, Istanbul

The InterContinental, Budapest Hilton Vilamoura, Portugal

Best Luxury Business Hotel - Europe H Austria...................................................................Hilton Vienna H Croatia..............................................Regent Esplanade Zagreb H Cyprus.................................................................Aphrodite Hills H Czech Republic..................................... Kempinksi Hybernaska H Estonia............................................................. Swissotel Tallinn H Finland.................................................................... Kamp Hotel H Germany.......................................................Jumeirah Frankfurt H Greece.................................................................... Divani Hotel H Hungary............................................ InterContinental Budapest H Iceland...............................................Radisson Blu SAGA Hotel H Ireland...........................................................Lough Eske Castle H Italy....................................................... Hotel Principe di Savoia H Latvia.......................................................................Hotel Bergs H Lithuania.............................................................. Palanga Hotel H Malta............................................Kempinksi Hotel San Lawrenz H Monaco...........................................................Fairmont Monaco H Norway........................................................... Grand Hotel Oslo H Portugal............................................................Hilton Vilamoura H Russia....................................... Hilton Moscow Leningradskaya H Slovakia............................................... Crowne Plaza Bratislava H Slovenia................................................... Bohinj Park Eco Hotel H Spain................................................. Hesperia Tower Barcelona H Switzerland........................................................ Gstaad Palace H Turkey........................................................ Grand Cevahir Hotel

Best Luxury Business Hotel – Africa H North Africa.......................................................... Conrad Cairo H West Africa................................................. Labadi Beach Hotel H East Africa........................................................ Sheraton Addis

Best Airport Hotel H Western Europe................................... Sofitel Heathrow Airport H Northern Europe..............................Hilton Copenhagen Airport H SE Europe......Radisson Blu Airport & Conference Hotel Istanbul H SW Europe.................................................Hilton Madrid Airport H Middle East.................................................. Oryx Rotana Doha H Asia...............................................................Regal Airport Hotel H Africa.................................................. Holiday Inn Accra Airport H North America.................................Fairmont Vancouver Airport 8 l theMICEreport

Labadi Beach Hotel

Best Conference Hotel H Western Europe............................................ Hotels Van Oranje H Southern Europe......................................Hotel Hesperia Tower H Northern Europe......................... Legoland Hotel & Conference H Scandinavia.......................................................... Voksenaasen H Spain.................................................................. La Manga Club H Middle East................................... The Bonnington Hotel Dubai

Best Convention Bureau H Europe.................................................................... Czech CVB H Germany.................................... Dusseldorf Convention Bureau H Switzerland.................................................. Engadin St. Moritz H Central Europe.................................... Tirol Convention Bureau H Eastern Europe............................... Poland Convention Bureau H SE Europe........................................ Athens Convention Bureau H SW Europe.................................. Barcelona Convention Bureau H North America.................................Boston Convention Bureau H South America............................... Bogota Convention Bureau H Japan............................................... Sendai Convention Bureau H Africa................................................................ Joburg Tourism H Australasia................................... Adelaide Convention Bureau

Best Airline H SE Europe.......................................................... Croatia Airlines H North America.......................................................Delta Airlines H South America.......................................................LAN Airlines H Best Fixed Base Operator, Europe................ Eccelsa Airports

awards Croatia Airlines

Amsterdam RAI

Stockholm

Best MICE City

Techonology Section

H Western Europe......................................................Amsterdam H Northern Europe...................................................... Stockholm H SE Europe.......................................................................Zagreb H SW Europe................................................................. Barcelona H Central Europe............................................................... Vienna H Eastern Europe..........................................................Budapest H Oceania......................................................................... Sydney

H Best Event Management Software..............................B-Com H Best Online MICE Solutions Provider......... venuesworld.com H Best Event Application.................................................... ileads H Best Travel Accessory......................................Skross Adaptor H Best Videoconferencing Provider............................. Interoute H Best Online Hotel Reservation Service................... Hotel.info H Best Mobile Application.................................................. MINT H Best Online Venue Finder.......................... meetingselect.com H Best IT Solutions Provider......................................... Succevo H Best Meeting & Events Content Management Provider.Poken H Best Software Provider..............................................etouches H Best Conference Software Provider.......................... GLOBIT H Best Event Insurance Provider..................................... Hiscox

Best Convention Centre H Western Europe.............................................. Disneyland Paris H Northern Europe............................................................. Harpa H Central Europe........................................................KKL Luzern H Middle East...........................Qatar National Convention Centre H Asia........................................ Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre

Best DMC H Argentina....................................................................ATP DMC H Cyprus.................................................................... CPC Events H Czech Republic..........................................Four Seasons Travel H Denmark............................................................................. ICS H Egypt....................................................................... Excel Travel H Finland..................................................... The Travel Experience H Hungary..................... Liberty Incentives & Congresses Hungary H Iceland................................................................Practical Travel H Italy......................................................................... 39 + Events H Latvia............................................................... 3K Management H Malta.............................................................EC Meetings Malta H Middle East.................................................................Extramile H The Netherlands............................................ Delta Amsterdam H Norway................................................. scandinavian incentives H Poland..........................................................Liberty International H Romania................................................................Karma Travel H Russia.....................................................................Acris Siberia H Serbia.................................................... Eurojet Travel Company H Slovakia...............................................................Enjoy Slovakia H Sweden................................................. scandinavian incentives H Switzerland.....................................................Executive Events H Turkey.......................................................... Blue Chip Incentive H Ukraine...............................................................Liberty Ukraine 10 l theMICEreport

Miscellaneous H Best MICE Cruise Line Company....................... MSC Cruises H Best Conference Hotel Group, Germany ......................................................... arcona HOTELS & RESORTS H Best Conference Venue, Ireland........................Aviva Stadium H Best Large-sized Conference Venue, Austria .......................................................................Bregenzer Festspiele H Best Luxury Hotel, Sri Lanka.................... Cinnamon Lakeside H Best Luxury Spa Hotel, South Africa .......................................................... Conrad Pezula Resort & Spa H Best Travel Management Company.............................. CTMS H Most Innovative DMC.............................. Darmstadt Marketing H Most Creative DMC............................................... UAE Impact H Best Event Insurance Provider..................................... Hiscox H Best Medium Sized Conference Centre, Austria ............................................................................ K3 Kitz Kongress H Best Hotel Conference Centre, Germany ................................................. Lufthansa Training Centre Seeheim H Best Luxury Resort, South East Europe ............................................................... Maestral Resort & Casino H Best International MICE Venue Brand .............................................................................. Hard Rock Cafe

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Eccelsa Excellence: at the heart of the Costa Smeralda To travel to one of the world’s most exclusive destinations, it’s essential to arrive in style.

Winner of this year’s Service Award in The MICE Report Awards, Eccelsa Aviation has raised the design bar on boutique terminals, with the stunning new airport development at the Costa Smeralda.

14 l theMICEreport

Eccelsa Aviation

F

or the last 40 years, the Costa Smeralda has been renowned as one of the most exclusive tourist destinations in the world.

As a secluded location on the sundrenched northern coast of Sardinia, this select resort has attracted some of the biggest names in Hollywood, international politics and business.

Seduced by its privacy, first-class facilities and fashionable denizens, the beau monde can now fly direct to the region’s new private and business terminal, managed by Eccelsa Aviation.

Barely two kilometres from the airport is the brand-new development of Marina di Olbia. Combing authentic Mediterranean port architecture with state-of-the-art facilities, the marina accommodates yachts of all sizes and provides discreet transfers to and from the airport. As such, Marina di Olbia is the only structure in the entire Mediterranean that offers guests the opportunity to begin their holiday on the Costa within a few minutes of touching down on the island.

Officially opened in June 2009, the new Eccelsa airport terminal is an architectural masterpiece. Clean, sleek and immaculately designed, the structure sweeps skyward in the shape of giant wings. Relaxing in the spacious cocoon-like comfort of the terminal, the elegantly crated natural and artificial lighting design creates a sense of profound tranquillity.

Unusually for an airport, the calming atmosphere of this world-class terminal conceals the fact that it caters to more than 40,000 passengers each year. Combining professionalism with exceptional charm, Eccelsa Aviation is adept at serving the constant flow of discerning – often celebrity – clients, all heading to one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines. Furthermore, this stunning terminal is the only airport in the whole of Italy to display local and international time zones with Rolex.

The highly efficient team is headed by the General Manager Francesco Cossu, who handles an increasing variety of special demands from more than 14,000 private jet movements every year. “Since the company was founded in 2002, our passenger numbers and plane movements have doubled,” says Francesco, “and with that, the sheer variety of requests we find ourselves having to satisfy.”

An ever-increasing number of elite visitors arrive at the Costa Smeralda to chill-out on super yachts or relax at the dreamy villas along the shore. The result of this influx of exclusive visitors has been the development of the new terminal, which includes no less than 4,000 square metres of retail paradise. Now, business travellers can browse through the plethora of luxury boutiques, including the best selection of leading Sardinian and Italian brands, a range of luxury eye wear franchises, Royal Cashmere, De Grisogono, the finest jewellery at Star Dusts and top-range fashion at Ermenigildo Zegna. In addition, the terminal boasts a first-class restaurant, fashionable coffee shop, Crew Resting room and a fully equipped conference hall.

Airborne villa All glass and glittering design, the Eccelsa terminal has one particularly unique feature: a formidable outer wing that allows guests to enter and exit the terminal directly from their aircraft. This extensive wing provides shelter for even the large executive B737s and A319 and A320s, and is the closest thing to an airborne villa ever.

With hundreds of square metres of cabin space, this development can include a lounge, office, and numerous bedrooms and bathrooms.

Furthermore, these giant executive jets now comprise up to four per cent of aircraft movements at the terminal. Furthermore, with a vast selection of sleek and stylish Audis on hand to traverse the short distance from the carpark to the resort, comfort and elegance are assured to every guest from the moment of touchdown.

Olbia General Aviation was founded in 1989 by the Olbia Airport Management Company, Geasar, and became a virtually autonomous organisation in 2003. In less than a decade, it has doubled flight movements from under 7,000 to more than 14,000 aircraft per year. As one would expect, July and August are the busiest months in the skies over Costa Smeralda, with between 3,000 and 4,000 arrivals and departures clocked up monthly.

Privacy and security are the two most essential qualities that private aircraft passengers most appreciate about Eccelsa Aviation. Winner of the coveted Service Award in this year’s MICE

Report Awards, Eccelsa provides complete in-flight catering with a menu of more than 100 dishes, ranging from simple sandwiches to mouthwatering lobsters. Needless to say, there is also a carefully selected array of local Sardinian and Italian cuisines and wines.

On arrival, there is a just a short helicopter trip to any super yacht from the Olbia terminal’s helipad, and many passengers choose this way to travel to their elite villas or hotels. The undisputed skill and efficiency of Eccelsa’s highly motivated team ensures the transit runs like clockwork.

Equally, the terminal’s dedicated concierge service can organise everything a business or incentive traveller will need for a perfect stay, from horse trekking, helicopters, Ferrari or Aston Martin rentals to yacht charters and sailing boats – with or without a skipper and crew to do all the work.

On the ground, the Meridiana Maintenance Team also offers first class technical assistance and there are also integrated services for flight crews. Furthermore, air taxi companies and their crews cater for all visitors, making up a considerable proportion of the traffic coming into Olbia Costa Smeralda – up to 50 per cent at times.

The award-winning Eccelsa Aviation is one of the genuine reasons why people choose to holiday in this Sardinian heaven again and again.

A place where friendliness, quality and a first-class service are all part of the scenery, the choice is not difficult. l

theMICEreport l 15

Hard Rock International

One of the all-time most exciting, sophisticated and energetic lifestyle brands in the world, Hard Rock continues to redefine the essence of hospitality: from exhilarating music to authentic memorabilia, innovative signature restaurants to iconic hotels and casinos.

Neil Walden enjoys the hospitality of Hard Rock International, winner of the Best International Venue Brand at this year’s MICE Report Awards.

T

ruly global and instantly recognisable in every continent, Hard Rock boasts a presence in 174 locations worldwide in 53 countries. With a reputation as remarkable as its playlist is diverse, the brand has evolved and expanded with each new generation’s musical taste. From hosting the iconic artists who take centre stage in London’s Hyde Park during the annual Hard Rock Calling festival to entertaining the long list of celebrities that show up at Hard Rock hotels and cafes around the globe, it is clear to see why this international titan was voted the Best International MICE Venue Brand in this year’s MICE Report Awards.

And it’s not just because of the unique hospitality experience that makes Hard Rock tower head and shoulders above its competitors. Recognised

16 l theMICEreport

equally for its philanthropic ethos, the company has always pursued its goal to assist those in need, with rock stars raising funds for its global charity partners and supporting impoverished communities across the world. From helping to create artist-designed T-shirts for charity, to developing events for aid organisations like WHY Hunger, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and the Caron Keating Foundation, Hard Rock proves that giving back involves more than just mottos.

As curator of the world’s greatest museum of music memorabilia, Hard Rock International is also a serious collector of classic musical souvenirs, with more than 73,000 pieces in its cafes and hotels around the world.

Each treasured object tells its own story and reflects both the evolving culture of Rock‘n’Roll and the unique flavour of

the city in which it is displayed. This is so much more than simply showcasing Rock‘n’Roll artefacts; it’s about shifting the entire guest experience into overdrive.

Some recent acquisitions include the stunning stage-worn outfits from Lady Gaga and Katy Perry, to gorgeous instruments from guitar icons Carlos Santana and Jerry Cantrell of Alice in Chains fame. These pieces and many more can now be explored through the brand’s recently unveiled interactive RockWall® – an immersive, interactive touchscreen facility that enables guests to enjoy an in-depth look at the vast and incredible collection.

For business or incentive visitors, exceptional guest rooms are standard at Hard Rock Hotels. The brand’s relaxing extravagances go far beyond reasonable expectations and include sensual fabrics, sophisticated lighting, highend toiletries and premium technology.

From iPod docks and flat screen TVs to brand new Fender guitars, guests are immersed into the true rock-star experience.

So much more than just another café, hotel or event space, the Hard Rock experience enhances meeting spaces and events with stunning lighting effects, luxurious comfort and stateof-the-art functionality. With meeting spaces and ballrooms of various sizes, event organisers are presented with an exciting selection of platforms for

Hard Rock International

Hard Rock provides awesome venues around the globe, enhanced by the professionalism and attitude of its experienced staff retreats, trendy product launches, networking receptions, convention parties and charity events. Charged with the energy of a unique and dynamic environment, Hard Rock provides awesome venues around the globe, enhanced by the professionalism and attitude of its experienced staff. And what a great place to host your holiday party this year!

Having catered backstage for the world’s most celebrated stars at some of the largest music festivals, Hard Rock excels at meeting all VIP catering requirements. The renowned Legendary Burgers, for example, are well-named and equally well-loved, and all event menus are made from scratch by highly skilled chefs.

Best described as upscale in attitude and unconventional in design, every Hard Rock venue blends business and pleasure seamlessly. From an intimate event for business associates, a convention with hundreds of delegates, to a post-meeting cocktail party fit for a rock star or classical diva, Hard Rock is indeed a hard act to follow. l

Visit www.HardRockMeetings.com

theMICEreport l 17

meetings

A Matter of Time Meetings can be one of the most constructive ways of creating initiatives, increasing motivation and generating results – if they are managed efficiently and start promptly. Cliff James looks at some top tips for ensuring punctual, productive and prosperous meetings that begin and end on time.

18 l theMICEreport

A

s a truly effective tool for generating ideas and increasing motivation and productivity, meetings outrank most other means of corporate communication. Research from the worldfamous Dr Albert Mehrabian suggests that the written word only carries seven percent of accurate meaning – a statistic that is frequently banded about in human communication seminars to exemplify the importance of face-toface meetings.

At one time or another, every professional has been subjected to the malingering futility of a badly run meeting that started late, finished even later and wasted money, resources and everyone’s time. As companies become increasingly globalised and time more precious, the need to run tightly controlled, effective meetings is greater than ever.

For meetings to achieve organisational outcomes, the old adage is still the best: start as

you mean to go on. With good planning and a strict adherence to punctuality, meeting planners are guaranteed to achieve more, no matter how much attendees try to stray from the agenda.

In preparation for the event, planners should allocate a realistic amount of time for the various items, rather than arbitrarily decide the length of the meeting. In this way, the agenda can be used both as a planning tool to determine the start and end times of the event, as well as a measurement by which the facilitator can know when to draw each item in the meeting to a close.

When planning meetings to which delegates have to travel, factor in time for pre-meeting refreshments and bathroom breaks, with at least 30 minutes scheduled from the time of their arrival to the actual start of the meeting.

To ensure that participants remain attentive and engaged, allocate plenty of breaks into long meetings. Concentration spans can flag after just 45 minutes, and therefore a ten-

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meetings

minute break every 45-60 minutes will sustain enthusiasm and keep the brain cells burning.

It is standard practice to distribute the agenda ahead of the meeting, and best practice for the agenda to state both the start and end times. In addition, by stating that the meeting will begin promptly at the scheduled time and all participants should arrive on time, the point is reinforced. There is also much to be gained by sending a reminder email 30 minutes before the meeting to encourage attendees to arrive punctually.

If agendas are sent out late – or not at all – the organiser is transmitting a subliminal message that the meeting is not important

“Attendees must donate a certain amount of money for every minute they are late, which is then used to buy muffins or doughnuts at the end of the week.” and does not have a purposeful schedule. If tardiness begins at the top, there is no reason why it should not be emulated below. By committing to starting and finishing on time, both attendees and organisers are entering into an unspoken agreement to ensure the meeting is as efficient as can be. Intolerance of unpunctuality will set a behavioural standard for the group, and participants are much more likely

to conform if expectations are well defined and consistently enforced.

However, having set the highest standards of punctuality, these best intentions will be worthless if the organiser fails to show up on time. A facilitator who encourages others to be prompt – but fails to follow their own directive – appears incompetent; they are also signifying that the meeting is not important. If a chairperson is consistently late at meetings, attendees could consider tactfully addressing the issue: for example, by suggesting whether it would be more convenient to start 15 minutes later at the next meeting.

Close the doors A practical action, albeit seemingly harsh, is to close the meeting room doors at the scheduled time, regardless of whether all participants have arrived or not. A note posted on the outside door, stating the appointed start time, will reinforce the message that punctuality is expected. It will also virtually guarantee that everyone will arrive on time at future meetings.

Some companies have introduced a ‘latecomer’ jar, to which attendees must donate a certain amount of money for every minute they are late, which is then used to buy muffins or doughnuts at the end of the week.

Despite all these safeguards, there are unforeseen circumstances that could delay the beginning. If the meeting does start late, the chairperson should still ensure it ends at the scheduled time. People’s attention will stray as they wonder how long they will be unexpectedly detained. It is also inconsiderate to assume that participants’ timetables can be disrupted without notice. Attendees are well within their rights to leave at the scheduled end time, as this was a condition of their accepting the meeting.

Attendees can contribute towards the timely running of meetings by reviewing the agenda before arriving, focusing on the specific items, and only making points that are relevant to topics. By making their way to the meeting room ten minutes before it is scheduled to start, participants will have time to visit the bathroom, make a coffee or handle any issues that may arise en route.

By acting on these tips, maintaining punctuality and sticking to start and end times, both organisers and attendees can ensure that meetings are productive, efficient and problem-free. l 20 l theMICEreport

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There can be no better date to put in your diary than IMEX 2012. For this is when you’ll meet and connect face-to-face with some of the most influential people and ideas in the meetings industry. We’re expecting over 3,500 exhibitors and 14,000 industry professionals – including nearly 4,000 hosted buyers – to gather in Frankfurt for our 10th anniversary, with an unrivalled chance to liaise with top decision-makers from across the world.

For three days, the show floor will buzz with energy and excitement as buyers and visitors get down to business with a host of global suppliers. And with around 200 occasions for networking – cocktail receptions, champagne toasts, lunchtime receptions, destination and business presentations, award ceremonies, dinner events, meet and greets and business breakfasts – there’ll be plenty of opportunities to meet everyone you want to meet, and even more besides.

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meetings etiquette

Mind Your Manners‌

Business breakfasts, power lunches, corporate dinners and the rise of networking events: the opportunities for building business relationships have advanced out of the boardroom and into the social environment. As the boundaries between business and social life become ever more blurred, Peter Morrin looks at the correct etiquette for keeping it professional.

A

s business functions are increasingly taking place outside of the office, it is wise to remember that they are still essentially work events. Professional breakfasts, power lunches and networking functions are all business meetings; they may be camouflaged by the social setting, but do not be fooled by these dressed-up environments: they are just a different

22 l theMICEreport

backdrop for the same professional role.

Networking events in particular can be disorientating to the uninitiated. The drinks, the food, the stage lighting – everything can conspire to create the illusion of a relaxed social event where corporate rules do not apply; do not be deceived. Whether you are in a social environment with colleagues, clients or potential stakeholders, an unfortunate slip between the work and social life boundaries can turn a potential promotion or contract into a careerkilling catastrophe.

This is particularly true in situations where you are likely to meet prospective clients for the first time. First impressions can last an excruciatingly long time, and the so-called one-minute honeymoon may make or break a potentially beautiful business relationship. If you make an unprofessional impact, you might as well kiss that sale or contract goodbye. So,

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meetings etiquette

the next time you are scheduled to meet outside the office, keep the following tips in mind and resist the temptation to totally let your guard down.

When planning a meeting over a meal, think about the agenda and the timing. Business breakfasts should only be arranged for urgent topics and last no longer than an hour. If you are dragging someone out of bed early, make sure you choose a restaurant that is convenient for your counterpart and keep the small talk to a minimum.

Power lunches are better for more casual meetings, such as entertaining clients or meeting new contacts. It is sensible to schedule two hours for these lunches, as it is hard to squeeze in time to order, eat and strategise within an hour. No matter how casual the setting, you are still only there to discuss business so do not drown

No matter how casual the setting, you are still only there to discuss business so do not drown your colleague in small talk

“For perfect timing, the best moment to broach the business of the meeting is after the ppetisers have been served” 24 l theMICEreport

your colleague in small talk. For perfect timing, the best moment to broach the business of the meeting is after the appetisers have been served.

If you are meeting a business associate after work, but have concerns about mixing alcohol with business, tea is an excellent alternative. Without alcohol in the mix, meetings tend to run faster, more smoothly and there is less chance of making an unguarded faux pas. If possible, try to steer clear of business dinners, as most of us already spend too much time at work.

If you must schedule a business dinner, have something relevant to address.

Small talk is fine until you order, but once the waiter has left, embark on your business discussion.

Table manners Naturally, good table manners are an asset whenever you eat, but they are imperative at a business function. If you are ordering à la carte, steer clear of the most expensive items on the menu.

Unless your host sticks to a side salad, it is also good manners to not order a dish significantly more expensive than theirs. If no one else orders an appetiser, resist the urge or else you will delay the entire meal. When your food arrives,

wait until everyone else has been served before you begin eating. And, to avoid appearing boorish, never complain about the restaurant, food or service.

The party that benefits most from the business meeting is the one who should pay, regardless of who extended the invitation. If it is not clear who benefits most, the party that extended the invitation should pay. To appear truly suave, it is tactful to make arrangements for the bill before it reaches your table to avoid any awkward situations. If you are going out for a business dinner with a group of colleagues, the most senior executive at the table should handle the bill.

Networking events can be ideal for making new contacts, but – unless you follow some basic guidelines – you could come away from the evening with nothing but an unfortunate reputation.

Even if your ultimate goal is to increase sales, it is wise to resist the urge to make a sales pitch on the night. It can come across as desperate, not to mention being irritating to other attendees.

Be sure to circulate the room and mingle as much as possible; it is still a networking opportunity, even if you are with colleagues. If you see a potential

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meetings etiquette

collaboration, let the other person know you would be interested in continuing your discussion another time. However, do not thrust your business card on every person in sight; the scatter bomb approach also reeks of desperation.

At such events, you are expected to sing for your supper, so be prepared to engage in a variety of discussions.

Try to avoid controversial topics; discussing politics, sex and religion can alienate people and create deep-seated antipathies. For hot conversational topics, you can conduct research before the event: find out as much as possible about the agenda and other attendees, read the day’s newspapers and industry blogs, scan your Twitter feed – all these things can help you shine at small talk, as well as appearing up-to-date and in-the-know.

Spend around five minutes with each person and devote as much time to their line of business as you do to

As around 60 percent of communication is non-verbal, try to maintain a fair amount of eye contact and lean toward the speaker slightly

“Unless you are careful, the corporate party can be a minefield of career-killing opportunities” 26 l theMICEreport

your own. People warm to those who appear interested in them, so ask open-ended questions and engage with their answers. As around 60 percent of communication is non-verbal, try to maintain a fair amount of eye contact and lean toward the speaker slightly. The tell-tale signs of disinterest are obvious to everyone, so it is better to make no impression at all than to be remembered as dull and inattentive.

Casual snacking The food at networking events is usually a buffet, so the key is to think casual snacking. When you are waiting in the buffet line, never think of pushing ahead; it is obnoxious and unprofessional. You will also be missing a fine opportunity to network, which is the whole purpose of the evening. To everyone in the room, it will appear that your priority is a free lunch rather than to build business relationships.

When you reach the buffet, fight the urge to fill your plate to breaking point.

Always use the utensils provided and learn from Seinfeld’s George Castanza’s mistake: do not double-dip your halfeaten tortilla in the sour cream; put the sauce on your plate instead, or people will remember you as the one that made their favourite dip untouchable.

Unless you are careful, the corporate party can be a minefield of career-killing opportunities. Whether it is the freeflowing alcohol, the irresistible dance floor or the beckoning karaoke, a reckless moment at an office party will inevitably become the stuff of legend.

Although it contains the word ‘party’, never forget it is a business event and you are still at work. It goes without saying that no one – however famous, respected or senior – is immune to the public humiliations that can follow too much alcohol at professional events, so drink moderately.

Regardless of the occasion, dressing appropriately is a useful subconscious reminder that you are at a work event.

The party may be after hours at a social venue, but it is still a business affair, so aim for conservative elegance. Finally, as the event comes to a close, ensure that you are not the last person to leave.

Respect any end times noted on the invitation, otherwise the hosts’ final memory of the evening will be of the one – usually tipsy – guest that would not take the hint to leave.

As more business events are taking place in the social environment, sticking to these simple rules could make the difference between a professional hit and a career miss. l

Hilton Rotterdam board room

BUILDING NEW HORIZONS IN GUEST SATISFACTION In 2012, Hilton Worldwide in the Netherlands celebrated the 50th anniversary since the company’s founder Conrad Hilton cut the ribbon of the first Hilton hotel - Hilton Amsterdam.

Today, that portfolio continues to grow, introducing new brands – DoubleTree by Hilton in Amsterdam and most recently Hilton Garden Inn in Leiden which opened in August 2012.

If all of that wasn’t enough, the first quarter of 2013 sees the culmination of a full refurbishment of Hilton Rotterdam meaning that the city will have a brand new Hilton hotel including a state of the art all new meeting facility.

Many things may change, but one thing will always remain the same – our desire to build on the past to create truly exceptional moments for the future.

Find out more about our hotels: www.hiltonbenelux.nl

Local Knowledge Global Know-How

As the winner of the Best Online MICE Solutions Provider in this year’s influential MICE Report Awards, venuesworld.com™ continues to break new ground at the forefront of MICE solutions. Ed Carpenter takes a look at the exceptional client-centred focus on local knowledge of this award-winning company.

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ocal knowledge is the key factor in hosting a world-class event, according to venuesworld.com™.

To really know the inside track on a destination, event organisers have to ask the locals. With this in mind, almost a decade ago, venuesworld.com™ set about recruiting local teams to deliver free venue-finding services in key MICE destinations across Europe, Asia and the USA. The crucial element of this scheme was the sourcing of local experts in every destination, as venuesworld.com™ firmly believes that in order to recommend the best options for corporate meetings and conferences, the destination must be known and understood intimately. Only planners on the ground, experiencing the venues first-hand, can truly

28 l theMICEreport

recommend the best venue, in line with the client’s brief.

In order to deliver on the venuesworld. com™ client promise, these local teams have to be flexible in their approach with the ability to deliver local event services at an international quality level. The need to keep abreast of new developments – such as upgrades, refurbishments, changes in industry management – has never been so important. Particularly in the current environment, senior local personnel need to have a close ear to the ground as venues and suppliers invent and reinvent themselves in order to survive the challenges of the modern MICE world.

At venuesworld.com™, each destination is managed by an ownermanaged team. Every client RFP is

received and reviewed in the destination by the local team, and the best possible solutions are provided as a free bespoke venue proposal. The local teams are delighted to welcome clients on site inspections as a key step in the decisionmaking process.

The heart of venuesworld.com™ is in Dublin, where founding Directors John Burke and Chris Nolan are at the helm. Passionate about their business, John and Chris have nurtured the venuesworld.com™ rollout at more than 25 destinations across three continents.

The key to their success lies in a handson approach, travelling continuously to meet clients for site inspections and events, and keeping a close eye on the local service delivery in each destination.

The Dublin office provides a central hub for clients who want to rotate conferences through several venuesworld.com™ destinations, and the organisation’s key account function ensures that repeat clients and events receive a continuity of quality and service. The key account manager leads the conference team, dovetailing with the local destination team to ensure that the client’s past preferences and experiences are harnessed for

“Whether it’s a new destination or an additional service, we are constantly moving to plug the gaps.”

John Burke, founding Director, venuesworld.com™

continuous improvement and successful conference development.

The local teams in each destination provide not just venue-finding services but also a full event ground services menu, offering any and all support services as required by the client. The client can select as many of those professional services as are relevant – it really is that simple.

Flexibility Without a doubt, flexibility is critical to the success of venuesworld.com™. Working with corporate event planners from all over the world, the company recognises that each and every client is essentially unique, and subsequently tailors its service to match the client’s particular modus operandi.

Furthermore, the quality and volume of events being delivered by the local teams means they are able to cultivate strong supplier relationships, which results in additional benefits to the client.

Clients can access these benefits through local buyers, although venuesworld.com™ appreciates that clients may also want to contract suppliers directly.

Chris Nolan and John Burke are constantly taking the temperature on

their service offering. “You can’t sit still for a minute as the market is too sensitive and so we are constantly talking to our clients, listening to their needs and developing our service to ensure we have the solution,” say John Burke. “Whether it’s a new destination or an additional service, we are constantly moving to plug the gaps.”

Ready to launch this summer is the new venuesworld.com™ online registration service. “Our clients have been looking for this service and it makes sense for our business,” says Burke.

“We have trialled it with some clients and it was a great success so it’s full steam ahead now. Between that and the rising popularity of Asian destinations, we have several service extensions in development.

“Creating a successful online solution for the MICE industry is a complex business. The requirements of the conference planner are many and varied, and anyone who thinks this can be an extension of the online FIT model is misguided. The model must also include very strong offline support; it really must be a hybrid.”

However, while international conferences are complex by nature, the

process by which venuesworld.com™ supports its global clients is simple in its delivery, amenable to how clients wish to operate, and above all provides added value for the event stakeholders.

“We effectively avoided the directory model, which offers more to the supplier than the conference planner,” Burke continues. “Our foundation was always based in traditional customer service of the client as king. And now, winning the award for Best Online MICE Solutions Provider in The MICE Report Awards 2012 is a fantastic validation of our hypothesis.”

Recognising the robust competition for this particular title in the 2012 Awards, Charles Vandeleur, Editor of The MICE Report, commended the achievement of venuesworld.com™ in winning this category. “This prestigious award has been won in a very tough category,” says Mr Vandeleur. “This highlights the high level of online functionality, geographical coverage and exceptional service which venuesworld.com™ provides to its customers. l

venuesworld.com™ delivers free venuefinding services in key MICE destinations across Europe

theMICEreport l 29

EIBTM eibtm

The Event of Events

Globally recognised as the event industry’s event of the year, EIBTM is one of the most important dates in the calendar for meetings, incentives, conferences and business travel professionals. Neil Walden takes a sneak preview at the jam-packed programme for the show’s 25th anniversary year.

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osted in Barcelona, the vibrantly cosmopolitan Spanish city of culture, this year’s must-attend EIBTM will be taking place from 27th to 29th November 2012 and will deliver three outstanding days of focused access to a dynamic business environment. As a key element of the IBTM portfolio, the event provides thought-provoking professional education and business networks for all attendees, while the Hosted Buyer Programme enables senior-level buyers to place international business with suppliers from across the world.

Last year’s EIBTM saw the best year so far, as the show smashed all records and welcomed more than 15,200 meetings industry professionals over the course of the three days.

The total visitor and Hosted Buyer attendance was up 10.3 per cent (at 9,330) on the previous year, and 64,950 pre-scheduled appointments were also recorded. Consequently, EIBTM’s success in facilitating valuable business opportunities and strong return on investment has been well and truly confirmed.

As the resolute focus of the show is on assured quality and the recruitment of buyers to place international business, EIBTM does not predict the number of attendees.

However, it does expect this year’s event to have a similar number on the show floor and, more importantly, continues to ensure that each attendee gains the maximum return on investment for their participation.

Ever determined to innovate, EIBTM will see a number of new initiatives that have been integrated into the show programme at this year’s event. As part of its 25th birthday celebrations, for example, EIBTM has developed a brand new logo that reflects the official ‘silver’ associated with a 25th anniversary, which will 30 l theMICEreport

mark the first of many new initiatives that will be announced. The new logo can be viewed and downloaded from the EIBTM website at www.eibtm.com/birthday.

One of the key developments in Barcelona this year will be the extension of the show profile beyond the meetings and events industry to incorporate the world of business travel. The decision by EIBTM to move into this sector was a direct result of post-show research, conducted after EIBTM 2011, which revealed that 57 per cent of Hosted Buyers worked in the business or corporate travel sector. To support this demand, EIBTM is introducing a dedicated ‘Business Travel Pavilion’ to showcase business travel suppliers and provide a specialist area for buyers to hold meetings and locate exhibitors operating in their field, thereby maximising return on investment.

Another exciting initiative to be implemented at this year’s show is the EIBTM Forum, a newly launched, education-led event taking place on the afternoon of Monday 26th November, the day before EIBTM opens. This groundbreaking forum will provide inspirational and provocative content to set the scene for the three days of business that follow on the show floor, as well as providing a new opportunity for the

global meetings industry to make important connections and network.

In addition, there have been some exciting advancements with the EIBTM Hosted Buyer programme. The expanded offering now includes a hosted and non-hosted option, a wider choice of destination airports for key countries such as Germany and the UK, flight reimbursement for American buyers to offer them the freedom of choice of departure ports, and flexibility in the duration of their stay. Also new for 2012, EIBTM will be inviting carefully selected ’C’ level executives, who are key influencers in the buying process as ‘premier buyers’ to the show.

As a key feature of EIBTM, cutting-edge technology will continue to play a pivotal role in the development and success of the show.

The Future Events Experience feature area, for example, provides additional networking opportunities, live product demonstrations and interactive ePosters. These enable Hosted Buyers and trade visitors to touch, feel and experience how their events can benefit from the use of the innovative technology that is now available on the market.

Following the resounding success of previous events, EIBTM will also be featuring

“For 2012, an even greater turn-out is expected as a number of significant changes have been made to both the content and the format of the new programme.”

the Technology Village this year. The Technology Village is a specialist exhibiting area in which more than 15,200 suppliers, buyers and planners can find the latest and most innovative technology products for their next conference or event. Exhibitors in the Technology Village are also able to showcase their technology within the popular interactive feature area, the Future Events Experience.

Dedicated meeting area A new Business Travel Pavilion is to be introduced this year, providing a dedicated meeting area for exhibitors to showcase their products to visitors and Hosted Buyers. This pavilion will have responsibility for corporate and business travel, plus will offer bite-sized educational sessions that are free to attend.

As a key theme and catchword of the 21st century, sustainability continues to be a significant element of this year’s show. EIBTM has consistently striven to educate the industry regarding sustainability, and all attendees are invited to take advantage of the Sustainable Events Corner, where professionals can learn about the concept and how it can be practically implemented into events, venues and the industry supply chain. The Sustainable Events Corner features an open advice clinic and interactive bite-sized presentations that are delivered by leading industry experts.

EIBTM 2012 will also see the return of the Sustainable Stand Award, which has been implemented to allow exhibitors to gain maximum industry recognition and to demonstrate their leadership in sustainability through the award scheme. This year will also witness the launch of the EIBTM Green Team, which will be collecting any left-over nonperishable goods from exhibitor stands to be

donated to local charities.

EIBTM is renowned for providing one of the industry’s most comprehensive professional education programmes, and one of the show’s key objectives is to drive the industry forward by developing the skills of meetings industry professionals across the globe. Last year, for example, there were more than 60 educational sessions, including dedicated streams for associations, agencies and corporations, all of which proved exceptionally popular. For 2012, an even greater turn-out is expected as a number of significant changes have been made to both the content and the format of the new programme.

Furthermore, EIBTM will be hosting various bite-sized sessions to enable busy meeting planners to benefit from the latest education content, presented in the form of short, direct sessions. As all delegates have a vast array of opportunities to take advantage of over the course of three days, these educational sessions have been designed specifically to support the needs of busy professionals.

In addition, the education content for EIBTM 2012 has been specifically adapted in the light of the challenging economic climate.

Consequently, EIBTM will be offering relevant sessions such as ‘How to maximize your ROI’ and ‘Advanced Networking’, all of which have been expressly designed to get to the very heart of issues that affect meeting planners on a day-to-day basis. More updates on t hese sessions are to follow in the coming weeks and will be updated on the EIBTM website (www.eibtm.com).

Networking is recognised as a vitally important aspect of EIBTM’s success, and so each year the organisers provide an additional networking hour on the show floor. This

appointment-free time enables visitors to informally mingle with each other and meet with exhibitors, who host relaxed networking drinks and performances at their stands. This year, the networking hour takes place on Wednesday 28th November between 6 and 7pm.

For 2012, the official EIBTM Welcome Party will kick off proceedings in the spectacular Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC) on Tuesday 27th November at 7pm. All attendees of EIBTM will be invited to the party, which provides a perfect opportunity to celebrate EIBTM’s 25th birthday and to network with industry peers from across the globe. The MNAC is situated on the mountain of Montjuic, and provides stunning views over the beautiful city of Barcelona.

Finally, following on from the success of last year’s EIBTM Club Night, Barcelona’s premier nightspot – Opium Mar – will once again host the event. Club Night provides a fun, informal and relaxing environment for Hosted Buyers, visitors and exhibitors to network in style at one of Barcelona’s most glamorous beachside venues. Building on the established success of the past 25 years, EIBTM 2012 is set to be the must-attend event of the year for all meetings and incentive organisers. l

theMICEreport l 31

Eventmobi

Event Conferences and exhibitions will never be the same again, thanks to the revolutionary technology from EventMobi. Caroline Branwell explores the must-have apps from the winners of this year’s MICE Report Readers’ Choice Award for Most Innovative Event App Provider.

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ver the past few years, mobile technology has played an increasingly prevalent – some might say essential – role in everyday life. Unsurprisingly, conference and exhibition planners have been quick to adapt and introduce the new technology to their events.

With adoption rates skyrocketing, an ever-growing number of attendees arrive at events with the realistic expectation that a smartphone or tablet app will be available, enabling them to get the most out of the occasion. Consequently, mobile devices now serve as tools that enormously enhance attendee experience at conferences and tradeshows.

For organisers who want to ensure that their event app is much more than just a gimmick, EventMobi – the winner of this year’s MICE Report Readers’ Choice Award for Most Innovative Event App Provider – is an industry leader in getting the most out of mobile technology. With a simple-touse event app, EventMobi is able to offer superby solutions that work on all devices, thereby making it possible for all attendees to benefit from the event app.

The adoption of mobile event apps is rapidly making traditional printed guides obsolete.

Moreover, the benefits of a conference app from EventMobi go far beyond just being an ecofriendly alternative to show guides. EventMobi has integrated a variety of different features, such as personalised schedules and real-time audience response technology, which allows event planners to engage in much more meaningful ways and enhance the overall event experience.

The introduction of new proprietary technology – the unique Fusion app – has enabled EventMobi to offer a comprehensive and affordable mobile platform. In addition to operating on all mobile devices and reaching every attendee, Fusion also provides access to event information for attendees, even without internet connectivity.

The President of EventMobi, Bob Vaez, explains that this one-step access enables attendees to use the app in a matter of seconds,

32 l theMICEreport

providing them with an intuitive experience that requires no further instruction. With an easy-touse app in every attendee’s hand, usage rates are consistently high. “From day one, our data has shown us that simplicity drives usage,” says Bob Vaez. “By creating a Fusion app, not only do we harness the offline-capability of native apps, but also the simplicity and reach of web apps.

Accessed through the web browser, EventMobi apps work on all devices, eliminating any sort of concern about what types of phones or tablets attendees bring to events.”

Not only is this a simple, enjoyable experience for attendees, EventMobi’s Content Manager actually makes it possible for planners to create the app themselves, requiring only a few minutes to get started. Customisations, branding and information management can all be done within the Content Manager, with no technical skill required. Consequently, event planners can easily upload information through Excel or integrating information with one of EventMobi’s various partners.

Inform, educate and connect As experts in the field of mobile technology, EventMobi’s Fusion app goes far beyond the capability of other native or web app solutions.

Using a new technology called HTML5, EventMobi’s Fusion app is able to work without a 3G or WiFi internet connection, and can be accessed and downloaded automatically by attendees in next to no time. From corporate meetings to massive association conferences, the Fusion app is able to inform, educate and connect attendees wherever they are, with or without an internet connection – a real revolution in the event experience.

Furthermore, EventMobi’s solution also delivers an incredible return on investment.

Offering three packages that range from $799 to $4,999, an event app no longer has to break the bank. With a range of features that include customisable attendee profiles, built-in session

feedback, live-polling and document hosting, event organisers can greatly reduce printing costs and enhance the experience for attendees, while simultaneously generating attractive, measurable exposure for their exhibitors and sponsors. This innovative company was also the first to introduce a gamification layer within its app – a feature that measurably improves learning and engagement.

Although EventMobi offers a top-of-therange app at an affordable price, the company really towers above its competitors in how it supports its clients. Not only does EventMobi’s team studiously monitor its support line, it is also embedded within the app creation process, thereby empowering planners to take full control of their event.

Unsurprisingly, this flexible and dynamic solution has not gone unnoticed by other members of the event industry. Venues and CVBs are queuing up to register with EventMobi, in order to offer the technology as a marketing tool to sell meeting space or to provide other services for existing clients.

By eliminating concerns about device usage and internet connectivity, EventMobi is able to offer a revolutionary technology that simply makes life easier. As planners struggle to reduce costs and enhance the event experience, more professionals in the event industry are utilising EventMobi to offer an unbeatable mobile experience. With the introduction of Fusion technology, EventMobi is transforming the experience for attendees and planners alike. l

The largest of the Antilles islands, Cuba is one of the most intriguing and distinctive destinations

on the planet. Emotions, colours, styles, natural splendour and spiritual beauty all combine with a unique climate and cultural wealth to produce an archipelago that abounds with magical energy. Cuba is the place you are looking for, the place where your clients will have unforgettable memories and experience the passion and excitement.

Solways Cuba is an internationally recognised DMC with vast experience in organising conferences, seminars, product launches, meetings, thematic groups, incentive travel and luxury tourism, to name a few.

We will stay by your side to deliver the most perfect event.

No group is too small or too large. Whatever the number of delegates to this memorable island, all groups receive the best of our attention and we strive to multiply their dreams.

We take pleasure in improving every detail of the design, organisation and realisation of each event, while the island provides its own enchantment: an incomparable musical note, the scent of an exquisite cigar, the ideal blend of many cultures and the contagious smile of our people.

Cuba offers countless natural assets: endless beauty areas that must be seen, vibrant cities, stunning beaches, small islands and heritage sites. Programmes are carefully scheduled according to the budgets, interests, and timeframes of our clients.

We look forward to welcoming you as our most important guest.

CONTACT US: Centro de Negocios Miramar/Miramar Trade Center Edificio Santa Clara. Oficina 401 Calle 3era entre 76 y 78. Miramar. Playa l Tel:53-72045577 ext 1401-65 l Fax:53-72045956 l email: INCENTIVES@SOLWAYS.COM www.solwayscuba.com

theMICEreport

Awards 2012 Best DMC: Cuba S o l w ay s

Create a free mobile event guide yourself Through twoppy.com you can easily create a mobile event guide in minutes, suitable for most modern smartphones. The system requires no technical knowledge and can be used at no cost at all. Visitors of your event will love you for it!

1

2

3

Submit your event at www.twoppy.com

Enter all relevant event data

Publish your guide and start making a buzz!

Create a twoppy account to get instant access to the content management system. Submit a unique web link for your event and move on to step 2.

Easily enter session times, performer biographies and general information about the event. Upload the venue map(s) to make it all interactive.

Once all data is submit you can publish your mobile event guide. Now provide visitors your unique web address or QR-code and you’re done!

www.twoppy.com Social Event Experience

twoppy

twoppy King of the Apps An exceptional, free, must-have mobile resource that enhances every event, twoppy has been crowned Best Mobile Event Software Provider in this year’s MICE Report Awards. Caroline Branwell investigates the superb opportunities presented by this award-winning provider.

A

s every conference and meeting planner can testify, selecting the destination, venue and programme is often the easiest aspect of event management; it is deciding on the countless support and auxiliary features that can cause sleepless nights.

The cumulative impact of even the slightest inconveniences and hitches can sway the overall experience of delegates, particularly when it comes to accessing event information. This is why a dependable mobile event software provider is a key priority for event planners.

Reliable, fully self-serviceable and exceptionally simple to manage, twoppy is an ingenious web-based solution that enables organisers to create an interactive guide for smartphones to complement their events. Available across the world and – more importantly – completely free, twoppy is an easy-to-use content management system that heralds the end of time-consuming, complex and expensive development projects. Furthermore, it is accessible at all times, which empowers event organisers to keep all relevant information up-to-date.

Event organisers are able to create an instant account at twoppy.com, where they can submit their basic event content information

immediately, including images, attachments and venue maps. The mobile event guide can then be published and promoted to delegates, while all additional information or amendments can be updated in real time as and when required.

Delegates can have instant access to the latest event information on their mobile devices, including workshop details, facts about all aspects of the programme, background information about speakers and performers, a fully interactive venue map, plus the opportunity to schedule their own agenda by favouriting sessions. Furthermore, attendees are able to use the software to network and interact with

each other, by viewing the profiles of other delegates, forming contacts on social networks and meeting interesting new people. It is also enables delegates to send instant messages to each other.

Of particular interest to event organisers, all the key features of this exceptional mobile event software can be obtained as a free version, although premium features are also available for those who want to offer more to their delegates.

Beginning at the surprisingly low rate of €149 per event, for example, planners can begin to have access to a more custom-branded dashboard, the addition of information about partners and sponsors, up-to-date information about usage statistics, or the ability to bulk upload information.

Although offering a free version, twoppy prides itself on providing the best possible customer service experience, which manifestly rivals many high-end premium services. Offering such exceptional service, it is therefore no great surprise that twoppy has been overwhelmingly voted The Best Mobile Event Software Provider in The MICE Report Awards 2012.

On top of the free standard platform, which is evidently suitable for the vast majority of international meetings, conferences and events, twoppy also offers some remarkably resourceful customised developments to meet the specific needs of demanding customers. The option of accessing customised platforms is particularly relevant for organisations that already possess specific apps and utilities.

Furthermore, twoppy offers a special Venue License for conference hotels and congress centres that would want to benefit from added value provisions. With so many valuable features and inspiring resources, twoppy is a dream solution for those organising distinctive events of every size and stature. l

theMICEreport l 35

MEETINGS & CONFERENCES EMPOWERING THE KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY As the evolution of technology and social media transforms the opportunities for sharing knowledge, the format of meetings is changing dramatically. Philippe Fournier, IAPCO President and the Managing Director of MCI France, explores the future of conferences in a knowledge-based economy.

Philippe Fournier, IAPCO President, Managing Director MCI France

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IAPCO

“Financial and monetary models have dramatically evolved, while terror, pandemics and other crises have modified the way people connect.”

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oing back to Paris after having met with some wonderful scientists and researchers from a European-based organisation in the French city of Nantes, I was trying to have a rest in my TGV (the ‘speedy’ French fast train), when I heard many cell phones ringing in the coach. How, I wondered, in the past did we ever manage without these machines? Then it was my turn; my smartphone started to buzz. I was reading emails in the train and I was then caught by my iPad, which was resting quietly next to the other electronic device. I started Googling, and then Facebook-ing, and then Linkedin-ing, and finally Tweeting.

I did not see anybody, did not talk to anyone and did not feel the time passing by, but within 120 minutes I had read and digested an incredible amount of information. I had learned significantly more than I had over the previous two days, and had also successfully transmitted an amazing amount of material, that I had found instantly, to my team, my friends and even my competitors – all while the beautiful French country landscape scrolled by.

* (UK Dept. Trade & Industry 1998 definition)

This is but one example of how we are always learning in the present moment. We learn without realising it. Before, there were two different kinds of knowledge: the one gained from experience (often called ‘tacit’ knowledge), and the one gained from formal education or training. Now, we seem to be in a ‘learning economy’ model. Learning means not only using new technologies to access this global knowledge (which is now available to everyone), it also means using such tools to communicate with other people and share innovation, information and transfer the knowledge.

We live in a media-driven era, in which the generation and exploitation of information and knowledge play the predominant part in the creation of wealth*. It is a Knowledge Economy.

After the industrial age of the 19th century, we have now entered the modern economic age where knowledge, know-how and expertise are part of the economical resources.

In this knowledge-based economy, hightechnology ICTs play a crucial role. More and more of our lives are split between the physical world and the online world. Look at the way we communicate, shop, find friends and consume: many of these activities are conducted through virtual connectivity.

Networks between individuals, institutions, disciplines and professional groups are fundamentally important in our globalised world. The various forms and components of these networks must constantly connect at any time and in any place. Whatever your localisation in this world, whatever distance there is between you and the other, you must remain connected. Physical limits have, if not disappeared, totally changed.

The development of technology – and the correlating advent of social media – have played an important role in enhancing connectivity by adding value; they have helped create new forms of communication between individuals and their friends, colleagues, brands or organisations. As the specialists like to put it: “from “one to many” to “many to many”. Every social site shows exponential usage growth in all demographics, and stakeholders are using these sites to talk. It is therefore not only important to join that conversation, but also to think how to use it to your best possible advantage.

The Internet is empowering sales, collaboration and communities in exciting new ways. It is therefore not only important for companies or associations to adapt their ways of thinking, but also to prepare for a future

where social media outcomes are taken for granted.

On top of that, many factors have modified the way we interact; our relationship to the world has changed because high-technology has accelerated the speed of connectivity. Financial and monetary models have dramatically evolved, while terror, pandemics and other crises have modified the way people connect. The environment and social issues are also helping to promote new ways of connecting. The result is that we no longer search for information, but rather the information finds us.

However, easy access to information does not mean an access to easy education. In the knowledge economy, there is no other way than to take learning and knowledge-creation as a primary goal to achieve prosperity.

Therefore, in spite of – or because of – what is written above, ‘live events’ are increasing tremendously.

Being together People like, more than ever, to be together, to meet and to experience. They want to see right into the eyes of the person they are communicating with. They want to sense the real experience of communication: to hear their actual voice, taste, smell, touch and react; they want to physically prove that the other exists.

The isolated realm in which our virtual world wishes to put us has, in reality, engendered a counter-reaction.

We are in danger of forgetting that we are humans with five senses that require stimulation. Our need for face-to-face meetings has thus increased; all the analyses and statistics given by national or international bodies and institutions over the past 10 years prove this fact. Consequently, there are more meetings everywhere in the world. The knowledge economy has even acted as a ‘booster’ of conferences, meetings and congresses.

A face-to-face meeting is therefore not a palliative. The high-tech and social media revolutions do not replace meetings, as some had feared. On the contrary, they are allies.

Face-to-face meetings are one of the solutions that we humans have practised for thousands of years. When we actually meet, things happen; things change, things improve and the economy rises. For example, combined together, the annual economic impact of associations meeting in France is more than twice that of the Olympic Games. theMICEreport l 37

IAPCO

“We will need to design conferences that encourage attendees to participate, transforming them into active players.”

As technologies are evolving so rapidly, they are finally fulfilling their promise and can now enable a real online interaction. New kinds of meetings emerge where our learning, understanding and knowledge are developed in participation with others. Customers are getting more and more used and comfortable with online communication. The merger of physical and virtual meetings has also been accelerated by the recent global economic slowdown.

Consequently, it should come as no surprise that the world of live conferences has forever changed. People need content more than ever; however they also want to discuss this content, to share ideas and to talk.

Because we are in the knowledge economy, content remains key – and conversation is a tool to make it attractive, affordable and admissible. Social media has proved that the power of conversation can kill a brand, and that marketing-based conversation is a new discipline. It is very likely that, in the future, the brand will be less important than the reputation.

However, conversation is not even tacit knowledge. Although certain lobbies have been promoting the conversation model, we actually need to explore how learning will build the knowing community that is needed for a wealthier world. It is not because we live in a world where we digest so much information that we must trust this information without verifying anything. On the contrary, the validity of the information received is becoming key.

How can we know what is the right, the true, the real information? Who has the knowledge?

The ‘old’ educational model cannot be transformed by a conversation model, but by a model that enables the access to people whose judgment and validity of putative knowledge can be trusted.

For the reasons stated above, the traditional format of meetings are changing because of this increasing importance of content. In order to disseminate this content everywhere, meetings will become a mix of physical and virtual aspects – which is what the knowledge economy needs.

New meeting formats are emerging, or already exist. There will be more interaction and engagement with others. We will need to design conferences that encourage attendees to participate, transforming them into active players. We will develop facilitated discussions rather than one way speeches. In some instances, sessions will be shortened. We will 38 l theMICEreport

People like, more than ever, to be together

need to change the ratio of participants-talking versus attendees-listening. Of course, there will also need to be more facilitators who can capitalise on participants’ experiences (tacit knowledge). We will need to facilitate learning instead of distributing information and, finally, we will need to look at your registrants as a community of practice in its learning process.

In this new period, we need to add value to our meetings. The key is to innovate with new programme design; to be creative with new methods of sharing information; to develop community outreach programmes of corporate and social responsibility; and to stay online and offline in one merging conference.

BEFORE and continues AFTER, while the model changed DURING. This is most of what our knowledge economy is about and what conferences do: transferring knowledge not only to manage our industry but also to boost our world. In our meetings and exhibition industry, we are in the middle of it if we consider (and I do) that a meeting does indeed transfer knowledge. From the tangible revenue (economic and financial facts) to the intangible benefit (facts of life, social impact), organising a conference does indeed make the world go round. Conferences in the knowledge-based economy have a major role to play. l

Hybrid meetings Such happenings are called ‘hybrid meetings’: the online activity can feed real-life events, just as real-life events provide amazing content for social media activity. The Internet, social media and other technology can be used as a buzz for the event by ‘teasing’ potential attendees; the meeting content can be made live online long after the actual event is over. With the hybrid model, you can reach more people; it enlarges the audience of your event. You can also track, measure and advance with digital attendees.

More importantly, you can also analyse. It helps you to predict and foresee your audience’s behaviour and adapt your chair or speakers’ speeches to what the attendees expect. Then comes your reaction time period, in which you can adapt. And by creating more participation, you give the feeling to your attendees that they too are contributing. They stop being passive watchers; in other words: you participate, therefore you are.

As a consequence, meetings now last longer. The time when the event was short-lived is most definitely over. The life of the event starts

What is IAPCO? IAPCO was founded in 1968, is registered in Switzerland and represents today more than 114 professional organisers and managers of international and national congresses and conventions from 41 countries. IAPCO members organise in excess of 6100 meetings annually, totaling some 2.24 million delegates and representing an economic impact in the region of 3.63 billion euros. IAPCO is committed to raising standards of service among its members and other sectors of the meetings industry. Today IAPCO membership offers a unique quality assurance, since entry into membership of IAPCO is by meeting strict criteria and by continuous quality assessment.

Meetings they’ll never forget London to Dubai, New York to Shanghai. For more than a century, Fairmont has been bringing people face to face for legendary meetings—and simplifying the work of those who plan them.

Today, we offer over 60 extraordinary destinations, each boasting splendid surroundings, state-of-the-art technology and seamless service, all setting the stage for a memorable occasion.

To treat meeting attendees to an unrivaled experience, contact our dedicated team at meet@fairmont.com, or call: AZERBAIJAN (2011) BARBADOS BERMUDA CANADA CHINA EGYPT GERMANY INDIA (2011) K E N YA MEXICO MONACO PHILIPPINES (2012) SAUDI ARABIA SINGAPORE SOUTH AFRICA SWITZERLAND U N I T E D A R A B E M I R AT E S UNITED KINGDOM U N I T E D S TAT E S

Fairmont St Andrews, Scotland

Direct to Zürich, Switzerland +41 44 317 6200

From within the United Kingdom 00 800 6070 6070

From within Australia 1 800 206 880

fairmont hotels

Fairmont Hotels and Resorts From the celebrated Le Château Frontenac to the legendary London Savoy, Fairmont Hotels have a renowned reputation for hosting some of the world’s most momentous meetings. Peter Morrin looks at the solutions and services of this inimitable brand. airmont Hotels and Resorts has been a leader in the luxury hospitality industry for more than 100 years and offers more than 60 distinguished properties worldwide, with many more in the pipeline. The brand’s celebrated collection of distinctive hotels includes historic properties such as The Plaza in New York, The Savoy in London and contemporary establishments such as the Fairmont Monte Carlo and Fairmont Dubai.

Throughout its history, Fairmont Hotels and Resorts has been at the epicentre of legendary meetings. For example, the Fairmont San Francisco hosted one of the most famous great meetings-of-the-minds in history – the United Nations Convention, from April to June 1945, during which the UN Charter was drafted.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Québec City hosted the momentous 1943-44 Conferences of the Allies, which welcomed heads of staff including William Lyon Mackenzie King, Sir Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Another true landmark hotel, London’s Savoy, is home to Kaspar the Lucky Black Cat: a famous wooden mascot who makes up the 14th guest when a table for 13 is booked.

Kasper has been a feature of The Savoy since 1927, when he first joined the ranks of UK’s elitist Other Club, founded by Sir Winston Churchill. More recently, Fairmont St Andrews in Scotland played host to the world’s financial leaders at the celebrated G20 Summit in 2009.

With decades of experience in hosting meetings both big and small, Fairmont colleagues have the first-rate expertise to create truly memorable events for all clients. In order 40 l theMICEreport

to make planning seamlessly smooth across the brand, Fairmont Hotels and Resorts offers administrative assistants and office managers a handy resource for one-stop group travel planning when they are organising trips for their business colleagues.

Global Events and Meeting Solutions (GEMS) at Fairmont is an effective resource that is only a phone call away for office employees who often book travel for meetings, incentive trips or trade shows, but do not have dedicated travel staff to support them. While this tool has always been available globally, a new, specialist GEMS office in Zurich offers an even more convenient way for European event organisers to connect with Fairmont. In addition, dedicated toll-free telephone numbers are now available across Europe (see phone numbers opposite) and services are conveniently provided in German, Italian, Spanish, French and English.

Industry veterans Giovanni Bravo and Eva Maria May have been appointed as Accounts Managers at the GEMS Zurich office, which opened in June 2011.

Global Events and Meetings Solutions is perfectly designed to assist office staff in identifying the ideal property for their meetings, incentive trips and other travel requirements,

“Fairmont colleagues have the first-rate expertise to create truly memorable events for all clients”

as well as sourcing availability, pricing and proposals at Fairmont hotels. Colleagues can request one or multiple proposals for Fairmont properties throughout their region, or for any of the company’s properties across the globe – of which it boasts more than 60 exceptional properties. Furthermore, proposals can also be requested for any of Fairmont’s outstanding sister brands: Raffles Hotels and Resorts and Swissôtel Hotels and Resorts.

This unique service makes it easy for entrepreneurs, small businesses and offices to book travel to a wide variety of dynamic locations – from Beijing to London, Hamburg to Chicago – with just one, simple call.

Located in some of the world’s most exclusive and pristine destinations, Fairmont is committed to responsible tourism and is an industry leader in sustainable hotel management with its award-winning Green Partnership program. The brand has also been a one-stop shop for environmentally sound practices for more than 20 years, and has been implementing quantifiable ways of reducing waste, conserving valuable resources and promoting a healthy environment.

Fairmont’s signature green conferencing program, Eco-Meet, provides a valuable framework for planners who want concrete results and a quantifiable return on investment for clients and superiors. For planners without a clear idea of how eco-friendly practices would apply to their own events, Fairmont colleagues are able to customise all aspects of this unique program. Whether it is hosting a flawless VIP board meeting, a memorable, international incentive program, or an impressive product launch, the GEMS team Account Managers will guarantee a seamless, stress-free experience. l

fairmont hotels

Fairmont Peace Hotel, Shanghai

Contact info

The Savoy, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, London

The team can be contacted by emailing meet@fairmont.com, and for a comprehensive look at Fairmont’s meeting offerings, log on to www.fairmontmeetings.com.

Dial Direct to: l North America: 1 506 877 3162 l Zurich: +41 44 317 6200 l Other countries: +1 (506) 877 3162 To call toll free from : l Australia: 1800 206 880 l Denmark: 80250167 l Estonia, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom: 00 800 6070 6070 l Finland: 0 800 915 479 l Italy: 00 800 6070 6070 l Luxembourg: 80024529 l Netherlands: 08000227184 l Norway: 800 17 230 meet@fairmont.com

The Plaza, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, New York

theMICEreport l 41

Czech Republic

The Republic of Culture Steeped in history, abounding with cultural excitement, architectural excellence and immaculate landscapes, the Czech Republic offers meetings and incentive visitors the experience of a lifetime. Cliff James discovers unrivalled MICE opportunities in the cultural heart of the continent.

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Czech Republic The mustsee citadel eský Krumlov in Southern Bohemia

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ituated at the historic crossroads of European cultures, the Czech Republic encapsulates the continent’s magnificent past and progressive future. Ranked as one of the most peaceful, democratic and developed nations in the world, this idyllic country boasts a rich and varied landscape of rugged mountains, fertile vineyards and ancient forests, romantic castles and relaxing chateaux, worldclass golfing facilities and stylish spa resorts, and a vast array of five-star hotels and contemporary conference venues.

Second to none in combining high-tech meetings facilities with an overflowing cultural offer, the Czech Republic is the ideal destination for unforgettable meetings and incentive trips.

Filled with extraordinary sites and stunning attractions, it is often said that the lavish history of the Czech Republic is written in its picturesque landscape, eye-catching architecture and the cosmopolitan character of its people. For thousands of years, this extraordinary land at the heart of the continent has been influenced by a sweeping range of peoples and cultures, eventually rising to become the powerful Kingdom of Bohemia and, later, a key

region of the Holy Roman and Austrian Empires. Frequently coveted by the larger European powers because of its enviable location and fertile lands, the state gained independence from Soviet influence during the famously peaceful Velvet Revolution of 1989 and became an independent republic in 1993.

Today, the Czech Republic is an integral member of the EU, the OECD and the Council of Europe – and a recognised world-leader in hosting outstanding conferences and events. The meteoric rise of the capital city, Prague, as a superior meetings destination is confirmed by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), which ranks Prague as the 14th top MICE destination in the world. The excellent service provided by the Czech Convention Bureau has also been duly recognised in the 2012 MICE Report Awards as the Best Convention Bureau in Europe.

It is not simply the abundance of stylish conference venues, quality hotels, professional convention support and safe, clean streets that attract international events to this ideal location. It is, undoubtedly, the complete package that captivates even the most experienced

of MICE professionals: the breathtaking cultural attractions and historical sites, remarkable landscapes, exciting outdoor activities, mouth-watering cuisines and overflowing hospitality.

Diverse terrains As anyone who has ever experienced the pleasure of exploring the Czech Republic will testify, this small, scenic country contains all the elements of Europe’s diverse terrains within its borders. In the west, for example, the ancient region of Bohemia is a wide, fertile basin crossed by the Elbe and Vltava rivers, and offering conference and incentive visitors a variety of relaxing and rejuvenating spa resorts.

The most famous of these elegant Bohemian resorts, Karlovy Vary, is renowned for its healing mineral springs and naturally therapeutic waters.

According to legend, the spring was discovered by the Czech king and Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV while hunting deer in the 14th century. The spa resort has since flourished as a popular health destination for the fashionable elites over the years, welcoming a range of high-profile figures such as Beethoven, Gogol, Goethe and Mozart. Worth a visit as much for its architectural delights as

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The Charles Bridge, Prague

for its mineral spring waters, Karlovy Vary is characterised by landscaped parks, beautiful fountains, classical colonnades and Art Nouveau edifices. Now the location of the world-renowned Karlovy Vary Film Festival, the town’s spas are frequently patronised by international film stars.

As a luxurious treat for incentive visitors, there are nearly 40 top-quality spas in Bohemia’s legendary ‘spa triangle’ – the area between Carlsbad, Františkovy Lázn and Marienbad.

Each spa provides qualified personnel, progressive treatments and rejuvenation methods using natural elements, such as mineral waters, medical ‘peloids’ (fen, peat and mud treatments) and popular wellness programmes, including antistress, weight reduction, detoxification and beauty therapies.

In dramatic contrast to the verdant valleys and elegant spa resorts in the west, the north of the Czech Republic

“The north of the Czech Republic offers stunning mountain walks, picturesque ‘rock towns’ and superb skiing opportunities for MICE visitors” 44 l theMICEreport

offers stunning mountain walks, picturesque ‘rock towns’ and superb skiing opportunities for MICE visitors with time for an outdoor adventure. In the Giant Mountains, for example, the Krkonoše cross-country ski course is a 90km route that follows a breathtakingly beautiful trail along the Polish border from Harrachov to Zacler. As a key centre for mountain hiking, ski jumping and bobsleighing, the chocolate-box town of Harrachov is popular with winter sport enthusiasts.

The south of the country, on the other hand, is a wistful landscape of fishing lakes and sun-baked vineyards, peppered with Gothic palaces, fairytale chateaux, and kilometres of excellently marked trails for relaxing MICE visitors to explore by foot or on bikes. The mediaeval castles, in particular, with their immense drawbridges, grand halls and acres of ornamental gardens, are among the country’s most popular cultural attractions.

One must-see citadel, eský Krumlov in Southern Bohemia, is a mighty Baroque fortress on a rock promontory overlooking the River Vltava. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, eský Krumlov is available as an unparalleled meetings and conference venue with a range of rooms for hire. The fully equipped Royal

Mint rooms of this magnificent venue are ideal for smaller seminar events, whereas the extravagant Rococo Hall of Mirrors is perfect for the most impressive of banquet feasts.

Organised walking and cycling tours through the scenic southern landscape are a popular feature of meetings and incentive programmes in the Czech Republic, especially when they include a visit to a mysterious ruin or a garden restaurant. The Moravian Wine Trails, for example, provide an opportunity for conference visitors to discover the countryside, local folklore, historical monuments and excellent regional wine, and a range of group tours can be organised with the assistance of the Czech Convention Bureau.

For conference organisers seeking to include more laid-back activities in their cultural programmes, the world-class golf courses of Southern Bohemia are so internationally renowned that the country has been affectionately dubbed the ‘Golf Republic’. With more than 100 clubs and 80 first-rate courses, the outdoor golfing season in the Czech Republic runs from March to November, although excellent indoor facilities are also available throughout the year.

The golf complex in Mnich, barely 97km south of Prague, is easy for

Czech Republic

conference and meetings delegates to reach from the capital, and offers an 18-hole championship course where prestigious national and international tournaments are hosted. A nine-hole course is also available for novice golfers, and both sections and set within the beautiful lakes and ancient forests of Česká Kanada. There is also a professional 18-hole and amateur ninehole course at Hluboká nad Vltavou, although this complex is worth a visit as much for the nearby Hluboká Chateau – an otherworldly neo-Gothic castle – as it is for the superb golfing facilities.

Throughout the Czech Republic, such contemporary sports and spa facilities are designed to blend in harmoniously with a landscape that has remained otherwise unchanged for thousands of years.

However, it is Prague that captures the hearts of all visitors with its flawless combination of the awe-inspiring ancient with the stylish ultramodern.

Regularly voted among the most beautiful capitals of Europe, Prague – the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’ – is a magical city of cobbled streets, historical gateways, mediaeval town squares and fairytale skylines. Ornamented with the finest examples of European architecture from the past thousand years, the city is a magnificent collage of Romanesque rotundas, Gothic steeples and cathedrals, Renaissance palaces, Jewish synagogues, elaborate Baroque facades, and Cubist and Art Nouveau monuments.

Conference and meetings delegates with only a few days free to explore the Czech capital are advised to start their tour in the historic city centre, which has been a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992. The Royal Mile is a charming walk that begins outside the Municipal House – a spectacular Art Nouveau building that hosts concerts by internationally celebrated orchestras – and continues to the Old Town Square.

An unmissable sight for visitors, the Square contains many of Prague’s most famous buildings: the Gothic Týn Church, the beautiful Baroque St Nicholas’s Church and the Astronomical Clock, which features a clockwork hourly show of the Apostles and other moving figures.

Beyond this square stands one of Prague’s definitive images: the Charles Bridge, which has spanned the River

Vltava since the 14th century and is elaborately decorated with dozens of fascinating sculptures. However, the pinnacle of any MICE visitor’s tour of the city must be Prague Castle, which is the largest castle complex in the world and houses the Czech Crown Jewels.

An imposing collection of royal and ecclesiastical palaces overlooking the city, the castle includes the Gothic Cathedral of St Vitus and the Romanesque Basilica of St George.

For conference organisers seeking to enhance the cultural programme of their event, Prague Castle is the spectacular setting for the annual Summer Shakespeare Festival. The Czech Convention Bureau is able to provide event planners with details of this festival and the many other exciting events that position Prague as the cultural capital of Central Europe, including the Bohemian Carnevale, Prague Proms and the Czech Beer Festival.

Entertainment With a profusion of entertainment venues, first-rate restaurants, jazz clubs and music bars clustered around Wenceslas Square, and luxury boutiques and designer shops along Pa ížská Street, the centre of Prague provides sophisticated leisure opportunities in an unforgettably historical setting.

The cultural pre-eminence of the City of a Hundred Spires is indisputable, but it is Prague’s superior meetings and conference facilities that set it far above its competitors. An impressive selection of luxury hotels, such as the Four Seasons, Hilton, Sheraton, Mandarin Oriental and Kempinski, are available to host events all sizes. In addition to superb purpose-built meetings venues, such as the vast and fully equipped Prague Congress Centre, there is also a variety of unique and historical halls, palaces and chateaux that can be hired for meetings, presentations and sumptuous banquets.

The excellent Czech Convention Bureau is on hand to assist all meetings, incentives and conference organisers with every aspect of their event in this idyllic destination. With the support and detailed local knowledge of regional bureaux throughout the country, the Czech Convention Bureau provides objective advice, inspired insights into cultural

programmes and incentive activities, site inspections, RFP distribution, and meetings with local service providers, ensuring event planners are matched with the right partners. Recognised as the Best Convention Bureau in Europe in The MICE Report Awards 2012, the Czech Convention Bureau’s team of experienced staff provide unrivalled MICE support.

All things considered, it is not surprising that the Czech Republic should have become such a leading destination for international conferences and meetings. Sharing its borders with Germany in the west, Austria in the south, Slovakia in the east and Poland in the north, this ideally situated country is easily reached from all corners of the continent.

With exceptional road and rail links to major cities throughout Europe, and the award-winning Prague International Airport connected to 120 global destinations, this immaculate country is an easy-to-access cultural paradise. l

Prague Conference Centre

Czech Convention Bureau - CzechTourism l Tel: + 420 221 580 111 l Fax: + 420 221 580 463 l czechconvention@czechtourism.com l www.czechtourism.com l www.czechconvention.com theMICEreport l 45

germany

Simply the Best

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Best Business Hotel Group: Germany

Best Wes ter n

A solution-focused conference service, competitive prices and quality venues from the Alps to the North Sea coast – voters have handed a resounding victory to Best Western, winner of the Best Business Hotel Group in Germany in The MICE Report Awards 2012. Ed Carpenter looks at what the World’s Largest Hotel Chain offers event organisers in Germany.

ith more than 4,000 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide, Best Western has every right to claim the title of the world’s largest hotel chain. Proving that extraordinary expansion does not have to come at the expense of excellence, Best Western is highly regarded internationally and has duly been awarded the prestigious Best Business Hotel Group in Germany in this year’s MICE Report Awards.

For those planning a superior business meeting, conference or event in Germany, Best Western offers state-of-the-art facilities and high-quality services in more than 120 MICE hotels across the country. From the North Sea to the Alps, each Best Western hotel comes fully equipped with the experience and expertise to make a meeting or congress a resounding success.

With the launch of an innovative new scheme – the Descriptor Program – Best Western has enhanced the brand’s achievements by helping potential guests and meeting planners to find the hotel that is perfect for them and their event. In order to increase customer satisfaction, the new program enables each of member hotel to identify their property as Best Western®, Best Western Plus® or Best Western Premier®.

Under the Descriptor Program, hotels that identify as Best Western are midscale properties that offer guests excellent value without scrimping on quality. Each venue provides free high-speed internet access, and frequently free breakfast and parking, free local calls less than 30 minutes, and 46 l theMICEreport

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Awards 2012

a free-of-charge publicly-accessible computer with internet access.

Hotels that identify as Best Western Plus are upper midscale venues that offer a more premium experience, featuring contemporary furnishings in comfortable and spacious rooms and communal areas. These venues offer all of the amenities of standard hotels, in addition to updated furnishings, high-quality bedding and upgraded bath amenities.

Best Western Premier hotels are upscale venues that offer true luxury at the right price.

Premier hotels offer the amenities of Best Western and Best Western Plus, alongside deluxe bath amenities, premium linens and towels, and typically 42-inch LCD or plasma televisions. They also offer enhanced guest services, such as onsite dining, a concierge and turn-down service.

In addition to the Descriptor Program, Best Western also offers meeting planners a range of unique ideas and exciting programs for superior events. The event brochure ‘Conventions &

Meetings: Wholeheartedly Different’, for example, provides pages of novel ideas and creative proposals for event organisers. From stylish corporate invitations, tips for the correct staging of meetings and ideas for professional networking events to demanding training sessions, a well-rounded program is of decisive importance for the success of an event.

In order to motivate staff, promote team spirit and increase the productive exchange of ideas in an informal environment, Best Western offers a sophisticated variety of activities to complement the event. In cooperation with professional partners, Best Western caters for all requirements. From a selective cultural program through to challenging sporting events, the possibilities are almost unlimited.

Furthermore, the Best Western Conferences and Meeting Service is a competent partner that will provide quick and professional solutions to event organisers. All offers are made within a maximum of 24 hours, and the service is free of charge. It is for these impressive services that Best Western has been voted by readers of The MICE Report as the best MICE hotel group in Germany for the annual MICE Report Awards 2012. l

The Best Western Conference & Meeting Service: l e-mail: tagung@bestwestern.de l Phone: +49 (0) 61 96 47 24-860 l Fax: +49 (0) 61 96 47 24-40 l URL: www.bestwestern.de/tagung

Best Western Hotels Service wholeheartedly different!

Best Western offers more than 200 comfortable hotels with excellent service in all major cities and business centres in Germany‌ and now three types of hotels for your individual business travel and meeting needs!

Best Western Germany Meeting Service: +49 (0) 6196-4724 860 or tagung@bestwestern.de www.bestwestern.de

lagos

Luxury in the land of the sun

Overlooking the mighty Atlantic Ocean, the deluxe Federal Palace Hotel and Casino in Lagos’s business district offers event organisers a distinguished venue that exceeds international corporate standards. Peter Morrin explores the excellent facilities of Sun International’s sumptuous Nigerian palace.

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ituated in the affluent business and financial district of Victoria Island in Lagos, the Federal Palace Hotel and Casino is a sensational multimillion dollar property from Sun International and Ikeja Hotels.

Perfect as the location for international events, the hotel offers seven distinguished boardrooms and a fully equipped executive Business Centre.

Stylishly designed and impeccably tailored to international corporate standards, the hotel offers 120 king-sized rooms, four paraplegic/ twin rooms, 12 luxury rooms and one- and twobedroom suites. Designed with the discerning traveller in mind, the hotel offers superior accommodation, contemporary dining in elegant surroundings, and access to a first-class gym that is fully equipped with the latest Techno Gym apparatuses.

Following the deluxe traditions of Sun International, the Federal Palace Hotel offers the finest facilities and amenities. All rooms are luxurious, comfortable and exceptionally spacious, and are completed with en-suite bathrooms. The hotel décor is an eclectic blend of modern designs, offering style and comfort and allowing guests to enjoy the serenity of the hotel without feeling removed from the vibrancy and pulse of Lagos.

Alterations began to the existing conference area in late 2009, and the completed building

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lagos

“Enjoy the serenity of the hotel without feeling removed from the vibrancy and pulse of Lagos”

now houses the legendary Federal Palace Casino. Open 24 hours a day every day of the year, this unique entertainment experience is also the first of its kind in Lagos. The casino houses both slot machines and sophisticated tables games, all of which are operated in US Dollars. The slots area contains 195 state-ofthe-art slot machines that offer a wide and exciting range of traditional reel slots, the latest multi-line video slots, video poker and Touch Bet Roulette.

The games on offer rival those of the finest US casinos, delivering the very best in terms of audio and visual display quality. Combined with all the latest exciting features, the Federal Palace Casino is an enthralling experience that provides a complete entertainment centre for guests. The casino also offers eight table games that range from American Roulette and Black Jack to Raise ‘Em Poker. This facility is undoubtedly Victoria Island’s newest and most impressive source of cosmopolitan entertainment.

The Federal Palace Pool Club was completed in October 2010 and now provides hotel guests and members with an excellent sports and relaxation centre. Enhanced facilities include the refurbished swimming pool, an enchanting sun deck, a giant waterslide, children’s pool with water-slides, a games room, live music bandstand, and the delicious Deck Restaurant.

Also available for guests on site are two tennis courts, an outdoor exercise circuit and jogging track around the property, an 18-hole Adventure Golf course, and a children’s play park – which includes a trampoline, jungle gym and swings. The next phase of this prominent hotel’s development is scheduled to commence in 2012, with the refurbishment of the tower block into a chic four-star hotel, the addition of the Supper Club, spa and a public gym. l

For more information and reservations, contact +234 1 277 9000 or email: reservations@ng.suninternational.com theMICEreport l 49

ghana

Gold Standard Luxury:

The Labadi Beach Hotel Winner of the Best Luxury Hotel in West Africa in this year’s The MICE Report Awards, the Labadi Beach Hotel is precisely designed to encapsulate the epitome of opulence. Neil Walden tastes the rich offerings of Ghana’s sole five-star hotel.

T

he matchless Labadi Beach Hotel is the kind of exotic, luxury hotel that event organisers dream about it. With its traditional Ghanaian decoration and superbly equipped hotel rooms, the Labadi offers serious indulgence for guests after a day’s exertions in meetings, brainstorming sessions and conference halls, or for incentive visitors who deserve a unique location in which to unwind.

The extents to which the Labadi Beach Hotel goes to realise the absolute luxury of an earthly nirvana are truly remarkable.

Sophisticated, sensual, soothing and specialising in the fine art of pampering, the Labadi Beach Hotel continues to raise the standards of world-class luxury. As Ghana’s only five–star hotel, the Labadi offers 60 additional rooms, making a total of 164 rooms, for its discerning guests. The entirety of the interior décor is designed to reflect Ghanaian’s cultural flair and customary style, combined with all the amenities of the contemporary world. The corridors of the hotel’s new wing are adorned with miniature chief stools that have been supplied by Wild Gecko. Walking through the stunningly ornamented hallways and bedrooms, guests can appreciate luxuriantly decorated rugs that stir the sensation of walking through an Arabian sultanate palace.

The opulent furniture in the guestrooms has been crafted in Italy

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from kiln-dried wood that is obtained from sustainable forests in the United States, and the furniture installers were specially flown in from Italy to ensure top quality installation. The specially designed bedroom dressing tables, for example, have soft closing drawers and a unique recessed make-up mirror that rises from the desk surface with illuminating lights. Furthermore, all rooms are equipped with hairdryers, fully stocked mini bars, refrigerators and recessed kettles.

Each room is ornamented with a distinctive and intricately carved Ghanaian chief’s stool, an exquisitely crafted wooden spiralling stand turning lamp, and a luxurious velour chair seat. With soft cushions and lavish throws in the living suite, true glamour blends seamlessly with comfortable living.

Each guestroom benefits from enlarged windows with stunning views over the African landscape,

and is enhanced by an ornamental long stem orchid that contrasts distinctly against the dark wood décor.

The superbly designed bathrooms contain a deep bath and separate, glass walled shower cubicle, and each one is augmented with a full-length wall mirror and subtle lighting to add a sensuous aura to the bathing experience.

The showerheads are adjustable to enable a massaging effect, and sumptuously soft white bath towels are provided to heighten the quintessential experience of absolute pampering.

There is a gorgeously ornate armoire for guests’ clothes and a sizeable luggage rack that stands at knee height for easy access. In addition to the vast 40-inch LED flat screen TV with 18 entertainment channels and the adjustable reading lamps, the king size bed in each guestroom is gilded with traditional adinkra decorated bedspreads and scatter cushions to ensure a flawless night’s sleep.

Without the shadow of a doubt, all visitors to the Labadi Beach Hotel will leave with a heightened definition of what it means to be pampered. As the only five-star hotel in Ghana, the Labadi exceeds all expectations and has rightfully earned the title of Best Luxury Hotel in West Africa in The MICE Report Awards 2012. l Website: www.legacyhotels.co.za

theMICEreport

Awards 2012 Best Luxury Hotel: West Africa

Labadi Beach Hotel

hong kong

Hong Kong Opulence

by Rhombus hotels From the geometric wonder of Hotel Panorama by Rhombus to the elegant luxury of Hotel LKF

by Rhombus, Rhombus Hotels provides the ultimate solution for mixing business with pleasure in the beating heart of Hong Kong

Above: Hotel Panorama

by Rhombus overlooks Victoria Harbour Below: Hotel LKF by Rhombus is located in one of Hong Kong’s trendiest neighbourhoods

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S

uperbly located in one of Hong Kong’s most popular cultural, shopping and business hubs, Hotel Panorama by Rhombus is a wonder of the modern world: a towering triangular deluxe business hotel that overlooks Victoria Harbour in Tsim Sha Tsui. Advantageously central, this geometric spectacle is a mere twominute walk from MTR East Tsim Sha Tsui Station, and only one stop to MTR Hung Hom Station. It is also just a fiveminute drive to Hong Kong China Ferry

Terminal, which offers convenient access to Macau and mainland China.

For the third consecutive year, the majestic Hotel Panorama by Rhombus has been recognised as one of the ‘Best Business Hotels in China’ at the China Hotel Forum from 2008-2011. It has also been awarded ‘The Best Business Hotel in Guangdong Hong Kong Macau’

by Let’s Go Magazine in 2009-2012, and the ‘Choice Favourite Hotel’ in the Golfers’ Choice Awards 2010.

With an awe-inspiring 270° vista of Victoria Harbour and exceptional service, Hotel Panorama by Rhombus offers an ideal venue for conferences and events. Graced with stunning views, AVA Restaurant Slash Bar, Rhombus Club Executive Lounge and Sky Garden on the 38th, 39th and 40th floors offer a variety of versatile venues for any corporate meeting, seminar or private function. The excellent Event Professionals at Hotel Panorama by Rhombus are able to assist with the management and support for every kind of superior event.

Equally impressive is Hotel LKF by Rhombus, which is favourably located in Lan Kwai Fong, the heart of the vibrant Central District. With its sensational décor and opulent design, Hotel LKF by Rhombus is a deluxe boutique hotel that delights international jetsetters with its five-star personalised service and ultracomfortable guestrooms. Located in one of Hong Kong’s trendiest and hippest neighbourhoods, the district is abuzz with bistros, al fresco bars, restaurants, pubs, shopping areas and art galleries.

Having received the ‘5-Stars Best Hotel Hong Kong’ award at the Asia

Pacific Hotel Awards in 2011, the hotel has also been recognised as the ‘Best Boutique Hotel in Asia Pacific’ by Business Traveller 2009, in addition to the ‘Best Business Hotel’ by China Best Design Hotels Award 2009. Conveniently located, Hotel LKF by Rhombus enables guests to access all parts of Hong Kong via MTR, Airport Express, buses, taxis, trams and ferries.

For enchanting cuisine, Azure Restaurant Slash Bar is situated on the 29th and 30th floors of the hotel. This superb venue has been acclaimed as one of the ‘Best Restaurants in HK’

by Asia Tatler 2008-2012 and ranked No. 7 in ‘The World’s 20 Best Sky Bars 2008’ by The Sunday Times, UK. With a stunning view of the dynamic city skyline and a setting comparable to none, Azure is the trendiest venue for product launches, fashion shows, seminars and private events. Whether the need is for a first-class business, entertainment, networking or simply socialising event, Hotel LKF by Rhombus’ contemporary lounge and two private rooms caters for every desired occasion. l For more information on Hotel Panorama by Rhombus l (852) 3550 0390 l event@hotelpanorama.com.hk l www.hotelpanorama.com.hk For more information on Hotel LKF

by Rhombus l (852) 3518 9330 l event@azure.hk l www.hotel-LKF.com.hk l www.azure.hk

Great Hotels of the World After a year of astonishing growth in the international MICE market, Neil Walden investigates the emerging trends in the industry for a leading hotel sales and marketing alliance, Great Hotels of the World.

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great hotels of the world

AS a clear indicator of the immense growth in the MICE

travel market, a 51 percent increase in meetings and incentives enquiries has recently been reported by Great Hotels of the World – the London-based hotel sales and marketing alliance. Thanks to the diverse portfolio of more than 200 unique meeting properties, the meetings and incentive team at Great Hotels of the World are able to effectively assist planners find the ideal venues for their events.

John Clarke, Director of Sales and Marketing, says that he is delighted at the significant increase in enquiries that have been reported at the organisation’s MICE desk in the past year. “Our service level agreement both to our member hotels and our clients has facilitated this growth,” he explains. “The ease of using one point of contact and our 24-hour response policy, providing a detailed proposal to clients within 24 working hours, are factors which have contributed to our success and growth.”

More than half (53 percent) of these MICE enquiries to Great Hotels of the World came from the UK and Ireland, followed by Germany (16 percent) and France (13 percent). Compared to the previous year, 2011 saw a 39 percent increase in new enquiries from the UK and Ireland, an 18 percent increase in new enquiries from Germany, and an impressive 96 percent increase in new enquiries from France. Other enquiries

came from the Belgian and Scandinavian markets, as well as the US, Middle Eastern, Russian and Asian markets.

Great Hotels of the World’s MICE department has also seen a 47 percent increase in enquiries from agencies.

Responding to this dramatic increase, Great Hotels of the World asked four of its European member properties to give further insights into their approach towards the MICE market. Bart Vancampenhout, Director of Sales at Thon Hotels in Belgium, reported that 15 percent of its hotels’ total revenue came from MICE (with rooms) and 12 percent without rooms.

Geographically, Thon Hotels’ top markets came from Belgium, the UK, the Netherlands and Germany. Its top vertical markets include the EU/ Government, associations, lawyers, banking institutions, consulting companies and IT companies. Lead times are dependent on the size of the event, but for a small conference, the average lead time is two to three months; for bigger conferences, the

Les Fontaines, France, where the MICE segment contributes 100 percent of the venue’s total revenue

Opposite: It is essential for Thon Hotels properties to be part of a sales and marketing alliance

average lead time is six months.

As the MICE industry is integral to Thon Hotels’ business, Bart Vancampenhout states that it is essential for the properties to be part of a sales and marketing alliance.

“Great Hotels of the World gives Thon Hotels the possibility to choose from a comprehensive collection of sales and marketing initiatives, including participation in meeting forums and road shows,” he says. “This gives us the possibility to establish new business relations and contacts with potential MICE and corporate buyers and reach out to emerging markets. Great Hotels of the World’s programmes are therefore tailored to meet our hotels’ individual objectives and enable us to increase our contacts with the leading travel management companies.”

Remarking on the different MICE trends that the hotels have experienced over the past few years, Vancampenhout notes that there has been an increase in negotiations around pricing. He also states that there have been greater theMICEreport l 55

“For Quinta da Marinha, being part of Great Hotels means that our hotel is committed to a high standard of service” expectations of high standards of service, even though companies may have a tighter budget and more last minute requests, particularly with regard to conferences and banqueting. The booking and confirmation process is now longer and many requests are only for booking rooms, with a conference held at the event’s location. Alternatively, the company may have the facilities to hold the conference onsite. There have also been difficulties with regard to terms and conditions, which has meant Thon Hotels has had to adapt depending on the specific country.

Fundimental to success At the stunningly fairytale Les Fontaines venue in France, Elena Litcheva – Marketing and Business Development Director – states that their approach to the MICE industry is fundamental to their success. The MICE segment contributes 100 percent of the venue’s total revenue, as Les Fontaines caters solely for business-to-business professionals and group bookings. Geographically, 56 l theMICEreport

Above: The Hotel Quinta da Marinha in Cascais, Portugal

Les Fontaines’s top market is France, which contributes 70-80 percent of their business. However, the participants at events are from all parts of the globe.

In terms of revenue, Les Fontaines’s biggest industries are banking and finance, followed by pharmaceutical companies and industrial companies such as energy, environmental and electrical. Although the industry as a whole has found lead times to be shortening, this has not been true for Les Fontaines. This property has a considerable capacity and hosts large events, making the lead time longer at an average of four months.

Litcheva has analysed the different trends at Les Fontaines over the past few years. “Les Fontaines has seen the same trends from 2010 in 2011,” she explains. “Lead times have been constant and partner negotiation has increased. We have had much more involvement with the big associations in terms of purchasing and sourcing, with particular regard to negotiations in terms of pricing. The demand for companies

to hold events is still there. However, companies are now more careful about money and the place they choose in terms of image. Another trend is that buyers are putting in more competition than ever before and Les Fontaines is now competing against more venues.”

Litcheva emphasises the importance for Les Fontaines of being part of a sales and marketing alliance. “As we are an independent venue, we do not have sufficient resources internally to develop our global presence and therefore we need to be part of an international alliance,” she says. “We have chosen Great Hotels of the World because they are strongly embedded in the UK and the European market, which is where the majority of our groups come from.”

At the Hesperia Tower in Barcelona, Sales Director Neus Tejador recognises similar trends within the MICE industry.

“Return on investment has become integral for companies planning events,” he admits. “Some companies have now put into play a specific and dedicated team to ensure they receive the best

great hotels of the world

possible deal as well as a procurement department. This will not only negotiate rates but also put into play other crucial terms and conditions, such as cancellation fees, payment conditions, and so on. There has also been a reduction in the amount of travelling in the past year, for example, in the number of attendees and a reduced number of nights.”

Tejador also recognises that there has been a move away from pure incentive programmes to motivational programmes in the philosophies of some companies. “This now means that the programmes also have to include some meeting time for delegates,” she continues. “Many companies no longer take employees to a destination solely to have fun. They also come to deliver a message or build a company’s team spirit. Group departments in marketing alliances have also become increasingly useful for clients, as the alliance is able to quote and give proposals for as many destinations as the company requires in one go, saving companies a lot of time in their venue-sourcing task.”

Hesperia Tower’s MICE revenue represents more than 60 percent of their total income and the venue is looking forward to increasing this percentage in the coming years. The hotel is one of the most important venues in Barcelona and highly specialised for MICE events. The hotel’s top market is the UK, followed by national clients, the United States, Dutch and French markets.

Furthermore, countries such as Germany, Belgium and Switzerland are still important as the hotel hosts large events from clients in these countries a couple of times each year. The hotel’s lead times vary significantly, depending upon the type of event. Congresses and product launches are planned between nine and 15 months prior to arrival. However, regular conventions, conferences, training events and so on

are organised with a shorter lead time than ever before, with an average of two months prior to the event.

Tejador also notes that it is important for Hesperia Towers to be part of a sales and marketing alliance. “It gives us the opportunity to become more diversified and increase our sales force within the MICE segment and into European key markets,” she says. “Being part of Great Hotels works for us into two different ways. Firstly, it increases our product brand awareness and develops a professional image of the venue.

Secondly, it means we can gain new business from group confirmations.

As this alliance works externally from our company, it is a way to receive different input, feedback and comment from the clients as well as to learn about the market trends in general.

This information and external vision helps us to establish a long-term sales strategy, as well as enabling us to be ready to react immediately to last minutes changes.”

Greater access At the Hotel Quinta da Marinha in Cascais, Portugal, revenue from the MICE industry can reach up to 50 percent of the venue’s total income, making it integral to their business. The hotel’s top markets are the UK, France and Germany, and most requests are received three or more months prior to arrival and are usually for stays of three to four nights.

Joao Pinto Coelho, Sales Director at Hotel Quinta da Marinha, expresses similar reasons on the importance of being part of a sales and marketing alliance. “For Quinta da Marinha, being part of Great Hotels means that our hotel is committed to a high standard of service,” he explains. “The alliance also provides our hotel with greater access to a network of meeting planners that have great potential to book in

Above: Hesperia Towers is one of the most important venues in Barcelona and highly specialised for MICE events

Portugal. We would be unable to access these international contacts on our own and therefore need international representation in order to achieve this.”

The consistent trend that the hotel has noticed over the past few years is that there has been a significant increase in last minute requests, even when the event requires complex functions or the booking is considerable, for example in excess of 150 rooms. Consequently, this trend has increased the pace of response to enquiries. The hotel’s MICE team now answer all leads within a maximum of 12 hours and ensure that they are prepared for any difficult and last minute requests.

They have also noticed an increase in requests for team-building activities involving social responsibility or environmental concerns. In response to this, the hotel is now offering a variety of activities, such as planting trees in the Natural Park or helping to build an orphanage for children. There has also been an increase in environmental queries from meeting planners who are now asking to see the hotel’s Green Policy. As a result of these developments, Hotel Quinta da Marinha has been certified as an Eco-Hotel by the TUV Rheinland. Responding appropriately to such environmental concerns is one important area in which membership of the Great Hotels of the World sales and marketing alliance has significantly assisted the venue’s development. l theMICEreport l 57

DMCs

For the past 40 years, Destination Management Companies have been supporting busy event organisers with the things they lack: expert local knowledge and key contacts. Neil Walden takes a look at the time and cost benefits of partnering with a DMC.

Destination Management Companies

I

t goes without saying that conference organisers and meeting planners are busy professionals who know exactly what is required for every event they are responsible for. However, it is also self-evident that event organisers know it is not really possible for them to personally handle every little detail on some projects. Whether the issue is that the meeting is too large, the time frames between sessions and events are too short, or there is not enough staff available – what is needed is another experienced pair of hands.

In the absence of any easy technology that

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can clone event organisers, there is another solution that may come close to providing that much-needed support. Regardless of where the meeting is scheduled, or the size or purpose of the event, effective assistance is available in the form of the nearest Destination Management Company (DMC).

The term ‘Destination Management Company’ is relatively new, but the companies performing this essential service are anything but new. The phrase was coined back in 1972 to describe the wide range of services – transportation, events, logistics and more – that

one company could provide for the meeting professional in just one point of contact. Over the past 40 years, DMCs now have a global footprint in the meetings industry.

In order for an event to be a resounding success, meetings and event planners need to know as much as possible about the chosen destination and its facilities. Which company has the most reliable buses? entertainers are available for that special evening? Is a permit needed to hold a picnic in that park? How is that permit obtained? How much will it cost? What are the other rules and regulations related to holding that

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DMCs

l Decor and theme development support; l The management of ancillary meetings; l Advance and onsite registration services; l Accommodation support; l Other support services that the meeting professional might need to ensure their event is successful.

“Microsoft clearly understands the critical role a DMC plays in bringing together multiple partners” Grant Snider, DMCP President, JPdL Toronto & Niagara, picnic (or ball game, or concert)? What is the history of this destination? Are there sufficient, well-versed guides to take groups to see the areas of interest? What restaurants can handle this size group? Should packed lunches be an option, and if so, where can they be obtained?

Expert DMCs have become a mainstay for meeting professionals, who have come to rely on the companies’ local knowledge and connections to get them through some challenging projects. All too frequently, the meeting manager does not have the luxury of time to research all the answers for various projects and components. In contrast, the destination management professional understands that they are obliged to know everything about their specific destination, including its peculiarities, history, unique attractions and key contacts. They become locale-specific logistic and event specialists for their respective destination. They engage in ongoing research into what new features and facilities are available, the costs of various sites and services, the right people to contact, and how to make everything work smoothly.

DMC staff members are continually educated on all aspects required to support event planners and, for this purpose, quality independent contractors with special skills and talents are investigated and recruited. Most DMCs use only professionals who have been personally recommended by someone who has already performed outstanding project work. For a largescale event, it is not unusual to draw on a pool of 150 contractors. In each case, particular care is taken to match the project staff with the needs of 60 l theMICEreport

the meeting professional.

DMCs are architects and general contractors for meeting professionals. They outline ideas in their proposals and, once the decision has been made, set out to make the desired components happen. Just as convention services managers in hotels and decorators in exhibition halls become extensions of the event organiser’s staff, so the DMC becomes the ultimate outsource partner outside of the education sessions and exhibition halls.

Depending on the particular company and the staff specialists in the company, many DMCs offer – but are not limited to – the following services: lC reative proposals for special events within the meeting; l Guest tours; l VIP amenities and transportation; l Shuttle services (including statistics) to assist with future planning; l Staffing within the convention centre or meeting venue; l Teambuilding programs; l Entertainment, both headline acts and talented locals, and sound and light professionals;

According to Grant Snider, DMCP President, JPdL Toronto & Niagara, meetings of all sizes benefit from a partnership with professional DMCs. “When Microsoft brought its 16,000 plus attendee Worldwide Partners Conference to Toronto in July 2012, they established strategic partnerships with all major stakeholders in the city,” explains Grant. “They hired JPdL Toronto & Niagara as their official DMC. Microsoft clearly understands the critical role a DMC plays in bringing together multiple partners with a mandate that included two golf tournaments, 50 off-site events, CSR activities and a closing event for 6,000 people. We were privileged to be part of this successful conference.”

So, where can event planners find the ultimate outsource partner for their specific needs? The ‘Find a DMC’ directory (http:// adme.org/dmc/directory) of ADMEI members is an invaluable resource, in which meeting professionals can search and find DMCs organised by continent, country and locale.

The directory clearly states whether companies are Accredited DMCs (ADMC) – thereby professionally recognised as having conformed to higher standards – and other details, such as the number of Destination Management Certified Professionals (DMCP) they have on their staff.

It should be remembered that the time and effort saved by using a specialist DMC means that they are extremely cost-effective, regardless of whether the event is to be held down the street or on the other side of the world. They will have the most up-to-date information on sports events, facilities, cultural activities and festivals, not to mention all the facts to ensure that every event is runs as seamlessly and effectively as possible. By using a professional DMC, event planners can concentrate on the organisationrelated details that only they can handle. l

The Association of Destination Management Executives

of the

DMC p r o f e s s i o n

DMCs formed an educational association to raise the level of professionalism, to explore the best ways of doing business and serving customers, and to educate customers as to what they can expect from a destination management company. The Association of Destination Management Executives (ADME) came into existence on June 24, 1995. In 2012, in recognition of the global nature of the meetings industry, the name was changed to ADME International. More information about ADMEI is available at http://adme.org.

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cyprus

theMICEreport

Awards 2012 Best DMC: SE Europe

CPC Event s

CPC T Events Voted the Best DMC in South East Europe in The MICE Report Awards 2012, CPC Events has been facilitating flawless events in Cyprus for almost 20 years. Neil Walden looks at the award-winning destination management company on the enchanting Island of Aphrodite.

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he ancient Greeks knew how to pick the most beautiful spots for their temples and sacred sites, and it is no coincidence that Cyprus was identified as the birthplace of Aphrodite – the goddess of beauty. With an abundance of ancient sanctuaries, stimulating landscapes and relaxing seashores, Cyprus is imbued with a unique heritage and countless attractions for MICE visitors.

Situated in the tranquil waters of the Eastern Mediterranean, this idyllic setting has inspired the creative juices of CPC Events – a leading Destination Management Companies (DMC) that specialises in the organisation and logistics of events, incentives and conferences on this spectacular island.

A licensed DMC with membership of CTO (Cyprus Tourism Organisation) and CIMA (Cyprus Incentives and Meetings Associates), CPC Events has provided exceptional service for events for more than 19 years. By using the best brands, a highly skilled team of experts and friendly support staff, CPC utilises local knowledge and professional partners to deliver inspirational events, meetings, incentives and superb conferences. As a result, readers have overwhelmingly voted CPC Events the Best DMC in South East Europe in The MICE Report Awards 2012.

Priding itself on the best customer experience, the highest quality service and exceptional outcomes, CPC Events aims to exceed the expectations of event planners from the very outset.

Providing everything from airport transfers and hotel arrangements to preproduction, rehearsals, styling, high-tech equipment, seamless event execution and technical support, the company sets no limits on the type of event it supports.

With so many attractions for MICE visitors to Cyprus, it is no surprise that CPC Events has romped home in this category of The MICE Report Awards.

Although a small country, Cyprus is a large island – the third largest in the Mediterranean – and its scenery is

Photos © St. Gerardi, A Kleovoulou, Cyprus Tourism Organisation

classically epic. Known as the island with a big heart, Cyprus famously gives visitors a genuine welcome and treats guests as friends. With its spectacular scenery, outdoor activity facilities and enviable climate, the island of Aphrodite is a natural incentive destination and conference location.

Island of contrasts As an island of contrasts, Cyprus’s cool, pine-clad mountains are a complete scene-change from the golden, sunkissed Mediterranean beaches and coastal attractions. Tranquil, timeless villages vie with the island’s modern, cosmopolitan towns for visitors’ attention. Luxurious beachside hotels can be exchanged for the olive groves, lemon orchards and vast landscapes of unspoilt countryside. Serviced by modern roads and highways, all destinations within this idyllic island are equally manageable.

Few countries can trace the course of their history back more than 10,000 years – but, once again, Cyprus is the exception. With ancient ruins that have been granted UNESCO World Heritage status, Neolithic villages and historical attractions that predate ancient Egypt, Cyprus offers a wealth of interest to incentive visitors and meeting delegates.

The island’s strategic position, its copper deposits and its timber have attracted the interest and influence of countless cultures, including the Persian, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Venetian and Ottoman Empires – each of which has left a distinctive mark on this island’s landscape and architecture.

Historically alluring, naturally attractive and well-equipped to exceed the expectations of all event organisers, Cyprus is a fascinating location for an unrivalled meeting or incentive. With professional support from CPC Events, MICE planners can be confident in the knowledge that the winners of The MICE Report’s Best DMC in South East Europe are on hand to help deliver a first-rate event. l

Scandinavian Incentives

All Points North

Scandinavian Incentives For exceptional experiences in an extraordinary region of Europe, Scandinavian Incentives has been adding the wow-factor to business events for more than 11 years.

Neil Walden takes a look at the DMC that provides meeting and incentive solutions in the clean, green wonderland of the Nordic countries.

B

arely a couple of hours from Central Europe and with excellent flight connections to most European cities, Scandinavia is renowned for its green technology, fresh air, safe towns, and almost untouched natural environment. From the fertile plains of temperate Denmark in the south to the northern tip of Norway within the Arctic Circle, Scandinavia offers a vast, exciting panorama of aweinspiring fjords, beautiful archipelagos and ice-age lakes. It is no wonder that event and incentive organisers with a penchant for the outdoors love this flawless region.

In contrast to the vast, unspoilt regions of tranquil countryside, the main cities are global hives of activity, alive with culture, design, fashion and ultracontemporary architecture. Business meetings and corporate events of any size can be hosted in the vast selection

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of modern conference centres that feature the latest technology and state-of-the-art audio-visual facilities. Equally popular, a growing number of events are being held in unique venues, such as aboard ships, inside huge oil barrels, in tee-pees in the pine-covered mountains, and even on private islands in the Stockholm Archipelago. The Scandinavian Charter of ICCA is also on course to develop the world’s very first sustainable meeting region for green conferencing.

There is unlimited scope for incentive activities and scenic adventures in the great outdoors throughout the year, from teambuilding experiences on snow-covered mountains, to white-water rafting, or orienteering within the huge swathes of ancient woodland. Alternatively, art-lovers and culture vultures will

The Scandinavian Incentives team provide solutions for every occasion

The global city of Stockholm

experience no end of delights in the main urban areas. From the bewildering array of historic architecture and majestic mediaeval town centres, to the museums celebrating Viking history and galleries displaying world-renowned Nordic artists, to the famously vibrant nightlife – Scandinavia offers something for everyone.

For unique corporate events, the Nordic countries provide some of the world’s safest and most reliable locations. From ultramodern conference centres in the global cities of Stockholm and Oslo, to remote and rustic venues within the Arctic Circle, from traditional, local cuisine to award-winning international restaurants, the options are limitless.

Whether the event is a business meeting for hundreds of participants, an international congress for thousands, or an intimate incentive for a select few, Scandinavian Incentives is the leading DMC in the Nordic countries that provides the solutions for every occasion. With a proven track record of ensuring first-class arrangements with local partners, imaginative venues and creative programmes, Scandinavian Incentives has many years’ experience of putting the wow-factor into the perfect event. l

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est DM C: S c a nd i n av i a Scandinav ia n Ince ntiv e

Scandinavian Incentives Sweden & Finland Tel +46 8 696 00 75 Fax +46 8 696 00 76 stockholm@scandinavian-incentives.com helsinki@scandinavian-incentives.com

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Scandinavian Incentives Norway & Denmark Tel +47 22 40 21 80 Fax +47 22 40 21 81 oslo@scandinavian-incentives.com copenhagen@scandinavian-incentives.com

www.scandinavian-incentives.com Scandinavian Incentives is a part of the privately owned Haman Group , founded in 1964. Haman Group offers a range of programs as well as tailor made arrangements with competitive prices also for FIT’s and tourist groups. For further information visit www.haman.se or www.scandinavian-incentives.com.

Best DMC in Egypt Since its foundation, Excel Travel has been undeniably Excelling in all different travel aspects. Being selected best DMC in Egypt for 2012, Excel Travel has the capacity and capability to deliver a turnkey successful event. Whether incentive, meeting, event or a conference, the dedicated MICE Team will always come with creative ideas and attention to details. Moreover, the excellent relationship with suppliers makes it easy to negotiate rates and meet customer’s budget and requirements without affecting the quality of delivered services. Excel Travel was selected to manage the largest incentive movement coming to Egypt since 2010 revolution. More than 1000 delegates flew to Cairo to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of their organization by the footsteps of the Pyramids. An unforgettable event that took place at a great location.

Excel Travel 68 Merghany St. Heliopolis Cairo - Egypt 11341 Tel: +202 24136100 (30 lines) Fax: +202 24182154

Contact Person: Mr. George Fawzi President & CEO E: georgefawzi@exceltrvl.com Mob.: +2012 22112775 Website: www.exceltrvl.net

M I C E Meetings

Incentives

Conferences

Events

IMPACT

Raising the bar for bespoke conferencing and incentive travel in the Middle East, IMPACT Event & Destination Management has gained a reputation for providing truly original destination experiences. Managing Director, Alberto G. Cavallo, talks to Neil Walden about the phenomenal success of this outstanding one-stop destination management company.

Making an IMPACT S

trategically located at the entrance to the Persian Gulf, Dubai has been a trading hub of global significance for two centuries, and is now an undisputed destination for international business meetings, world-class sporting events and unforgettable incentive travel.

A modern, cosmopolitan metropolis, Dubai is renowned for its extravagant shopping malls, beautiful artificial leisure islands, and record-breaking skyscrapers, including the Burj Khalifa – at 830 metres, the tallest person-made structure in the world. A dazzling jewel of a MICE destination on the Arabian Peninsular, Dubai also boasts an outstanding and highly professional destination management company (DMC) to meet the specific needs of event and incentive planners.

With a reputation for providing entirely personalised MICE solutions, IMPACT specialises in the creation and management of tailor-made incentive programmes and corporate events in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and northern Oman.

Licensed in October 2011 and officially launched in January 2012, IMPACT is already recognised as a leading agency in the region. Incentive organisers are particularly keen to praise the DMC’s creative marketing and communicationoriented approach that distinguishes

“Feedback from clients is positive because we cater to their communication needs and don’t operate standard tours” 70 l theMICEreport

IMPACT from standard tour operator agencies.

Speaking candidly, the company’s Managing Director, Alberto G. Cavallo, highlights the high satisfaction levels consistently reported by clients. Attributing these approval ratings to his professional team’s background in luxury hospitality, he lays particular importance on the service mentality that goes along with such experience. “Feedback from clients is positive because we cater to their communication needs and don’t operate standard tours,” he explains. “All experiences are designed to support our clients’ marketing objectives – where brand and key message are gently interwoven with tailor-made destination experiences. Our clients want bespoke event management solutions, not tour operators. Our business concept means we do not operate city tours, which people can get from all the standard operators in Dubai.”

With the specific aim of bringing fresh destination experiences and original MICE travel ideas to the market, IMPACT focuses on delivering authentic events and exciting incentive programmes that are not offered by conventional tour operators. The scale and scope of the company’s services are truly impressive and encompass a huge range of possibilities – as one would expect of a world-class DMC – although Alberto is quick to point out that IMPACT also focuses very strongly on brand communication and perfecting tailor-made destination experiences.

“One example of such brand new products is the Dhow Sailing Race

competition, where we can accommodate up to 120 participants,” he says. “This is a great and truly innovative adventure experience that gives our clients and delegates the opportunity to actively encounter a local tradition while simultaneously enjoying a thrilling teambuilding event. We can also customise such events for corporate challenges, where different companies or departments can compete for success.”

One-of-a-kind The options for tailoring such events to clients’ specific needs are numerous, and inevitably ensure the experience is always a one-of-a-kind exercise. With such emphasis on meticulously planned, bespoke activity programmes, IMPACT is well positioned to corner the region’s meetings, incentives and conferences sector. “With personalised customer service and innovative experiences that support our clients’ marketing objectives, we have a creative team of dedicated project managers who are able to walk in our clients’ shoes,” Alberto explains.

“The advantage of being an independent boutique agency keeps us agile and gives us the required flexibility to adjust our services as needed.”

As one would expect of a top-range company that is superbly located in one of the wealthiest, most exclusive and hightech destinations in the world, IMPACT works with many high-profile corporate clients from Europe – particularly the UK, Benelux and Germany – in addition to clients from emerging markets in South America. Gaining huge overseas interest

IMPACT

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Awards 2012 Most Creative DMC: UAE IMPACT Event & nat ion Ma nagement De s t i

by hosting international road shows and organising impressive educational trips for prospective clients, Alberto explains that IMPACT has also successfully promoted Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman at the industry’s various trade shows around the world, such as EIBTM, IMEX and GIBTM. In addition to this, the company has started cooperating with representative offices in various countries – a promotional development that is already bearing impressive results.

“We have successfully supported a healthy mix of incentive groups, such as German automotive companies of between 80 and 150 delegates,” continues Alberto. “We’ve also provided flawless product launches, for example with a Japan-German medical company with more than 150 delegates. We supported the Middle East and North Africa region’s sales conference and award dinner for a prestigious American medical corporation, catering for 80 delegates, and a superb inauguration event for a German engineering company for 100 delegates.”

Bespoke services From a large-scale teambuilding event for an automotive dealer attended by 1000 guests followed by a gala dinner for 1200 guests, to an entertainment programme for 300 delegates from the Diabetes and Cardiology Congress in Dubai, IMPACT has been proving its patent worth as an all-round provider of bespoke services – and not just for incentive programmes.

The company’s perfection-oriented service extends to a seamless solution for the meetings and conferences segment as

much as for thrilling team-building activities.

“We operate as a one-stop solution provider for any and every MICE-related issue throughout the region,” Alberto explains, indicating one of the secrets of IMPACT’s phenomenal success. “We work with specialists of any discipline related to our trade, and we add specialists who are ideally suited to the client’s event briefing and objective. So, for example, if our client is looking for a creative way to integrate their key message or brand experience into a food and beverage concept, we will have the specialist at hand who will become an integral part of the team that will develop the concept. This way, we’re able to maintain a lean and focussed core team that is enhanced when the concept briefing requires additional specialist competencies.”

Indeed, specialist competencies are a key selling point of IMPACT’s offer to event organisers in this vibrant MICE destination.

The successful combination of expert partners and ideal suppliers, logistical know-how and deep local knowledge has enabled the company to go from strength to strength. Sourcing the very best hospitality solutions in the region is something that Alberto is particularly keen to stress as a prime objective of the company.

“In respect of our existing industry partnerships, we work with all the hotel brands available in our destination, and we certainly prefer offering five-star properties,” he says. “There are also some excellent four-star options available in Dubai and some of our corporate clients tend to consider four-star hotels because

“The advantage of being an independent boutique agency keeps us agile and gives us the required flexibility to adjust our services as needed” of the reduced accommodation expenses, which can then be re-injected into exciting activities and original destination experiences.”

With such a bespoke service in a luxurious destination, IMPACT is looking forward to even greater growth in the coming months. “The first quarter of 2013 is looking very promising, considering the short tenure of our company in the market,” says Alberto, looking at an even brighter future. “Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer world-class business infrastructure, meeting and event venues, fantastic hotels, exceptional leisure experiences and flights ranging from just five to seven hours from any European city. This destination truly stands out for its incomparable value-for-money proposition and is rightly considered one of the best destinations for European-based companies planning their next corporate event or incentive travel programme outside Europe.” l

www.impactdmc.com

theMICEreport l 71

BOSTON

Nicknamed the ‘Athens of America’, Boston has a well-deserved reputation as a global leader in education, science, technology and now international conferences.

Ed Carpenter takes a look at the unique MICE destination that boasts the Best Convention Bureau in North America. rom the pulsating downtown core to the outlying neighbourhoods, visitors always find that Boston is a city of intriguing diversity.

With a fascinating mixture of colonial charm and urban sophistication, the city is rich in history, offers extraordinary dining, nightlife and shopping opportunities, championship professional sports teams and leisure facilities, and a vibrant arts and cultural community.

Without doubt, it is a dynamic meeting and convention destination.

Several factors combine to make Boston such a great destination for world-class meetings and events. First and foremost, the ease of access into and around the city is outstanding.

Logan International Airport is served by major

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domestic and international carriers, and currently offers domestic services to 79 US destinations and international services to 36 global destinations, with more than 1,500 flights a day arriving and departing from the airport. In 2011, new international air services into the airport increased by almost 20 percent, and Boston continues to be the shortest non-stop flight from Europe into the United States.

Furthermore, Logan International Airport is just three miles from the city and has recently completed a $4 billion modernisation project, including new terminals, new roadways and a new harbour tunnel that connects the airport to the city centre.

Once they have arrived in Boston, MICE delegates find the city has excellent access to air, rail and bus connections. Its two convention venues are recognised as providing the fastest

airport-to-convention centres in the country and it is also well-served by the ‘T’ – Boston’s enviable public transportation system. Being exceptionally pedestrian-friendly, Boston is known in America as the Walking City, and residents, event planners and delegates alike find it a particularly safe city to move around in.

Known as the ‘Athens of America’, Boston is a world leader in education, technology and life sciences. The city’s medical and educational institutions have helped to make it an internationally recognised centre of learning and intellectual activity. With 35 hospitals and more than 60 colleges and universities, the entire metropolitan area provides a vast resource for meeting and event organisers. Groups also have access to the world-renowned financial and biotech institutions situated in the Greater Boston area.

For event organisers on the lookout for culinary quality and diversity, Boston and Cambridge offer a range of upscale, international and eclectic options for the taste buds. Each unique neighbourhood is home to a distinctively different dining culture, and great new restaurants join the mix on a regular basis, keeping the gastronomic scene fresh and cutting-edge.

Offering a solution to the accommodation needs of every event, the area also boasts a variety of excellent hotel products to suit the requirements of any group – from five-star boutique hotels and independently owned venues, to all the major domestic and international chains.

One significant factor that makes Boston and Cambridge unique as a superior MICE destination is the fact that the region’s convention bureau has so many members and such well-established partnerships. The Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau (GBCVB) has a well-deserved reputation for its meticulous focus on servicing the needs of its customers and clients. This may well be the reason why the bureau ends up winning so many awards every year, including Best Convention Bureau in North America in The MICE Report Awards 2012.

By building such effective partnerships, the GBCVB is able to access the best resources for MICE organisers to utilise. For example, the bureau has a long-standing partnership with 3-21 Connect, which provides an interconnected complex of three hotels (Westin Copley, Boston Marriott Copley Place and the Sheraton Boston), two upscale shopping destinations and the exceptional Hynes Convention Centre. Another of the bureau’s partnerships is with the Waterfront Collection, which includes the Seaport Hotel and World Trade Centre, the Renaissance Boston Waterfront and the Westin Boston Waterfront – all world-renowned venues.

In addition, the GBCVB has expanded its popular Restaurant Week promotions to include two two-week programmes; these are now not only available for MICE visitors when they are in town, but also tie in with meetings during March and August.

The bureau is also able to advise on and access convenient transport deals, such as the convenient and versatile Charlie Cards from the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority for use on the subways. Furthermore, a pilot program to provide free transportation from Logan

Boston continues to be the shortest non-stop flight from Europe into the United States.

International Airport to Boston city centre has recently been extended – the only place in North America where this free service can be found.

In addition to the established convention centres, the Athens of America also offers a range of exceptional special-event venues in which off-site events can be hosted, thereby giving delegates a change of scenery and a wider experience of the city. Such unique attractions include the stunning Museum of Fine Arts, which has a newly expanded wing for the Art of the Americas. This comprises a beautifully designed enclosed glass courtyard, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, with replicas of the tall ships, interactive exhibits and much more.

Alternative venues for off-site events include the Institute of Contemporary Art and the Charles Moakely Federal Courthouse – both of which have breathtaking views overlooking the harbour.

Located in the Back Bay is the Harvard Club, which is only open to Harvard alumni or those with a Harvard connection – perfect for very exclusive events that the GBCVB are able to help organise.

In addition, there are also historic meeting venues at the various universities, such as the Harvard Medical School Conference Centre, which can be accessed for special group events.

The Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau has successfully helped to position Boston as a first-class destination for MICE events by offering exceptional customer service and access to inspirational venues. The awardwinning bureau has made the process easier than ever for professionals to meet in the Greater Boston area by offering a range of superior services: from assisting with the composition of Request for Proposals (RFPs) right down to the direct distribution of RFPs to hotels, attractions, transport companies and more than 1,200 GBCVB members through an online system.

Promotional support The experienced staff at GBCVB can assist MICE planners with complimentary RFPs for all of their meeting needs, from site inspection assistance and promotional support with building attendance numbers, to destination collateral, housing services, and even the provision of a concierge and restaurant services desk during the convention.

With such professional support and expertise on hand, it is no surprise that Boston continues to be a global leader as a destination for international meetings and events. According to the US Department of Commerce, Boston theMICEreport l 73

BOSTON

welcomed 1.3 million overseas visitors in 2011 – an 11 percent increase on the previous year.

Furthermore, the ICCA has reported that the number of international meetings to Boston and Cambridge continues to grow. A record number of 44 high-profile international meetings were hosted in the cities in 2011, with the economic impact of these events calculated to be in excess of $60 million.

The GBCVB is under no illusions that this success happened by accident. Effective partnerships are the key to this achievement, according to Patrick B. Moscaritolo, President and CEO of the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Six years ago, we formed partnerships with the Cambridge Office for Tourism, the Massachusetts Port Authority, which operates Logan International Airport, the Massachusetts Lodging Association and the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism,” Moscaritolo explains. “The purpose was to attract more international meetings to the region.

We continue to collaborate on programs with member hotels and venues in order to grow our market share.”

This successful campaign has included participation in major tradeshows such as IMEX, EIBTM, AIBTM and IMEX America, as well as the coordination of sales missions and other marketing and public relations activities, all of which serve to build awareness of Boston as a meetings destination and help expand overseas air service. It seems that these efforts have not only resulted in an increased number of meetings over the past few years, but also an increase in

A record number of 44 high-profile international meetings were hosted in the cities in 2011, with the economic impact of these events calculated to be in excess of $60 million.

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international air service to Boston, including the first ever non-stop service from Tokyo to Boston, which launched in April, 2012.

“Partnering with the GBCVB in these international sales and marketing programs has a proven return on investment over the past six years,” agrees Robyn Culbertson, Executive Director of Cambridge Office for Tourism. “These joint initiatives benefit our hotels and the entire hospitality industry in Cambridge.”

According to Moscaritolo, both international and domestic meetings coming to Boston today are drawn to the uniqueness of the American Athens. “They hit the sweet spot of our brand,” he says. “Boston is a magnet for meetings related to education, medical and life sciences, which are the kinds of industries that contribute to our local economy. The wealth of colleges and medical schools that we have here are huge resources for these meetings.”

It is clear that this exceptional city offers more to MICE organisers than most other US destinations. From great dining and world-class shopping to the vibrant arts, science and cultural community, it is easy to see why Boston is the ideal place for distinctive meetings and events.

With the Greater Boston Convention and Visitor Bureau being awarded the Best Convention Bureau in North America in this year’s MICE Report Awards, Boston has just got even more appealing. l

For more information, contact Stephanie Pappas by e-mail at spappas@bostonusa.com or by phone: 001-617-867-8222.

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istanbuL

There is only one city in the world that spans two continents, one 21st century metropolis that palpably connects the illustrious civilizations of east and west and has served as a bridge between international cultures for more than 8,000 years: ISTANBUL

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ichly steeped in romantic history and imperial world power, it is no overstatement to say that two of the many titles bestowed on Istanbul over the millennia are perfectly true: ‘The Queen of Cities’, arising from the city’s magnitude and wealth in the Middle Ages, and Der-i Saadet – ‘The Door to Happiness’.

Dominating a unique position at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been a magnet for intercontinental commerce, culture and diplomacy since ancient Greek and Roman times. Contemporary Istanbul is no exception to this grand heritage, and the dynamic blend of modern facilities and infrastructure with ostentatious history makes this city the indisputable queen of international conventions and world conferences. As Napoleon Bonaparte famously stated: “if the world was a single country, Istanbul would be its capital”.

Within the past ten years alone, the city has hosted a record number of eminent global congresses, with high-profile summits ranging from the International Conference

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of Democracy and Global Security to the International Conference on Space Technologies.

Consequently, this majestic city has climbed in significance up the ICCA’s worldwide conference city list; from 40th place in 2000 and 15th in 2010, Istanbul is now ranked by the International Congress and Convention Association at 9th in the world, confirming its status as a highly-prized destination for international events. And, as Turkey edges ever closer to full accession into the European Union, Istanbul’s reputation as a world convention centre is destined to soar even higher.

Since it replaced Rome as the new capital of the Roman Empire under Constantine I in 330 AD, this legendary megacity has always met the demands of being at the heart of international affairs. Even today, the city’s conference infrastructure and amenities are expanding to meet the increasing needs of the globalised marketplace and multinational congresses.

The avant-garde Harbiye Congress and Cultural Centre, for example, opened its doors for the first time to the IMF World Bank

symposium in 2010, boasting a vast auditorium for 3,500 delegates, a stunning foyer and an overall exhibition space of 10,000 square metres.

The Harbiye Centre is the latest enhancement of Istanbul’s international conference quarter, which is aptly named Congress Valley, and raises the capacity of this cosmopolitan district to 20,000 delegates.

Other denizens of Congress Valley include the exceptionally resourced Hilton Convention Centre, and the Istanbul Convention and Exhibition Centre – the only venue in the city in which 3,500 delegates can sit down together for a five-star gala dinner.

The palatial Halic (Golden Horn) Convention and Cultural Centre is a matchless venue for world-class conferences that unveiled its impressive facilities in 2009 for the Fifth World Water Forum, which was attended by more than 30,000 delegates. The Halic stands on the shores of the historic Golden Horn estuary – a superb natural harbour that has sheltered Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and other ships for thousands of years, and provides a distinguished backdrop for modern international conferences Spanning the Golden Horn, the Galata Bridge has been immortalised in Ottoman and European art and literature as the gateway between civilizations. Nowadays, this classic structure

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serves the international conference delegate by connecting the Halic Congress Centre with the Feshane International Exhibition, Congress and Culture Centre. Surrounded by vast ornamental gardens and lush greenery, the Feshane Culture Centre was built in 1839 on the orders of Sultan Abdulmecit as an extravagant textile factory for his army. Extensively restored and refurbished, the Feshane now hosts an assortment of international fairs, conventions and corporate meetings within its 56,000 square metres of luxurious halls, magnificent boardrooms and VIP lounges.

Unforgettable city However, the seductions of Istanbul for the international conference delegate are not limited to the state-of-the-art resources at each of these world-class meeting venues. Each year, thousands of business travellers take time out from their busy convention schedules to explore this most unforgettable and fascinating of cities.

For, as the French poet Alphonse de Lamartine wrote, “If one had but a single glance to give the world, one should gaze on Istanbul”.

International visitors to the Queen of Cities have been increasing by 16-20 percent year on year, reaching more than seven million in 2008 – and many of these will inevitably pay homage

to the city’s awe-inspiring monument, the Hagia Sophia. Designated as a World Heritage Site, this Christian basilica was founded in 537 AD by the Emperor Justinian and later converted into a highly-wrought mosque by Mehmet the Conquerer in 1453. Today, the sublime dome and towering minarets of the Hagia Sophia are among the most exquisite features of the Istanbul skyline, and a must-see for any conference delegate with an afternoon to spare.

But whether the excursion is a cruise across the Bosphorus, a tour of the innumerable Ottoman mosques or modern art galleries that bejewel the city, or even a digression into one of the trendy bars and clubs that endow Istanbul with that exotic edge, the international business traveller will always find an abundance of Turkish delight to enchant and amuse.

If the task of coordinating an international conference or business event in this magnificent city seems bewildering, then the Istanbul Convention and Visitors Bureau (ICVB) is on hand to offer specialist assistance. Founded in 1997 under the auspices of the Tourism Development and Education Foundation, the ICVB is an impartial not-for-profit organisation that eases the workload of the most practised convention planner and can help pinpoint the perfect location for every event. In addition to collecting

quotations on a selection of suitable venues, the ICVB can act as an intermediary between organisers and local services, conference centres, Professional Congress Organisers and Destination Management Companies.

To ensure the event is professionally executed on every level and runs as smoothly as possible, the ICVB will check the availability of facilities and make tentative bookings of venues and hotel rooms. Working closely with all partners, the ICVB performs preconference site inspections at venues throughout the city and even produces a wide range of excellent promotional materials, including the Istanbul Visitor’s Guide, brochures, films and other promotional materials.

With 8,000 years’ worth of experience as an international hub of trade, travel and diplomacy, and having been the capital of four major world empires, it should come as no surprise that Istanbul continues to dominate the world with its incomparable culture. More than seven million visitors flooded to the city during its dynamic year as the European Capital of Culture in 2010. And, with a dizzying assortment of world-famous arts festivals – including the International Istanbul Film Festival, Jazz Festival, Music Festival and Istanbul Biennial – it goes without saying that every event hosted in the unforgettable Queen of Cities is the event of a lifetime. l

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Antalya:

Heaven on Earth Bordered by balmy blue waters, rich with cultural heritage and abounding with world-class business hotels, Antalya is the rising MICE destination on the south-eastern tip of Turkey. Neil Walden explores the city that surpasses all expectations.

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nown as ‘Heaven on Earth’ by the ancient kings of Asia Minor, Antalya is indeed a celestial city, where three of the four seasons are spring and the other is summer.

With 300 days of sunshine each year, it is not hard to imagine why this historical city is regarded as divine.

As a result of its natural advantages, everyone from the ancient Greeks to the Ottomans settled here and left their cultural mark on its richly diverse heritage. The impeccable historical remains of this delightful city are complemented by superb skiing on the magnificent Taurus Mountains, and idyllic swimming opportunities in the balmy blue waters 78 l theMICEreport

of the eastern Mediterranean.

More than a purely sun, sea and historical destination, Antalya also has a well-deserved reputation in the meetings and incentive industry.

With its newly developed business hotels and well-equipped conference facilities, the city is a rising star for international congresses incentives and business meetings. There are few destinations that can boast such extreme good value for money and high standards of accommodation and service, a warm, sunny climate and a superior range of leisure facilities.

As an ideal destination for incentive travel, the city offers an exceptional range of attractions

for visitors, such as Antalya Museum – one of Turkey’s most impressive tourist venues – which has been awarded the ‘Museum of the European Council’. A trip to this museum provides the background to the must-see historical sites that can be visited across the region. The historical city centre demands to be explored, and includes Hadrian’s Gate, Hidirlik Tower, the famous Yivli Minaret, the impressive Kesik Minaret and the enthralling Old City with its historical streets and ancient port.

Incentive visitors who want to discover the extraordinary sites further afield can explore Turkey’s second largest cave, Dim Cave, the Aspendos Theatre – the most magnificent example of Roman architecture still in existence, the ancient city of Olympos, the mysterious ‘eternal flames’ at Chimera-Çıralı, the Roman city of Demre-Myra (birthplace of St Nicholas), or the protected island of Kekova. A range of activities are available throughout the year, including paintballing or golf in Belek, treasure hunting in the Old City, or fun climbing and diving around the region. Visitors can also enjoy a Turkish Bath or Ekopark tour, a jeep safari, a rafting tour at Köprülü Kanyon National Park, or join a range of thrilling tours or balloon rides around the breathtaking Greek city of Ephesus, the ruins of Pergamum, Termessos, Yatch, Sagalassos, Perge, Cappadocia or travel to Istanbul.

Through the efforts of the Antalya Convention Bureau (ACB), more than 240 national and international congresses will be hosted in Antalya in 2012, while the ICCA World Congress will be held here in 2014. Established by Antalya Promotion Foundation, a non-for-profit organisation, the ACB is supported by the Antalya Chamber of Commerce and Industry and aims to give the best possible advantages to organisations that choose this outstanding destination for their conferences, incentives and meetings.

Furthermore, a unique ‘all-inclusive’ programme is also available to delegates, in which almost all expenses – including accommodation, alcoholic and soft drinks, meals, entertainment, recreational activities, mini-bars, most Turkish Bath and sauna facilities and non-motorised water sports – are included in the price. With more than 550,000 hotel beds available, superior service from thousands of friendly professionals, and wellexperienced, multilingual staff on hand, Antalya – the ‘Heaven on Earth’ – promises to surpass all expectations. l

THE BEST MEETING POINTS OF TURKEY If the location of a meeting or conference will influence its quality and accomplishment, then there is no betterplace to hold it than in The Marmara Hotels.

The Marmara Taksim conference hall

The Marmara Taksim’s Totally Renewed Conference Rooms The Marmara Taksim’s completely renovated conference rooms now offer today’s most advanced state-of-the-art technology for each unique meeting.

Re-designed to cater exclusively to the needs of corporate clients, splitting into three breakout and five separate areas, The Marmara Meeting Center takes meetings and conferences to a whole new level.

The Marmara Taksim

Technological Infrastructure With 2 ballrooms and 19 conference rooms, ranging from 35-450 m² in size, The Marmara Taksim continues to be Istanbul’s leading conference and event centre. The meeting halls and areas can not only accommodate 10 to 1,000-people groups, but are also equipped with today’s most advanced state-of-the-art technology; from an automated digital screen that allows you to easily adjust lighting, to high-speed Internet access in all areas. Specially designed chairs and furniture ensure that each meeting room is geared to the smallest detail and the utmost comfort of all corporate guests.

Residence Kitchen The Residence Kitchen concept allows participants to enjoy a delightful array of pre-meeting breakfast foods, prepared by The Marmara’s award-winning chefs.

This special concept also extends to break-time coffee-tea service and drinks in the lounge area. In addition to the inventive catering menus prepared by these award-winning chefs, meals can also be enjoyed at the newly renovated Tuti Restaurant, which has been re-designed to incorporate its “Five-star Street Food” concept.

For more information, contact The Marmara Taksim at: +90 212 334 83 03

The Marmara Şişli

The Marmara Şişli

Its meeting and business center has six naturally lit boardrooms for up to 50 guests The Marmara Şişli, provides 3 meeting halls which can be easily merged to meet custom seating needs our meeting halls, namely, The Infrared, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi consist of 175 m² and can host up to 170 guests.

The Marmara Pera

The Marmara Pera

The Marmara Pera is equipped with five meeting rooms, including a ballroom which can accommodate up to 130 guests, as well as a fully equipped business center, Perapix, with natural daylight that is designed to make the most of your press conferences, product launches, media events and presentations of up to 100 participants.

The Marmara Antalya

The Marmara Antalya allows your group to combine business and pleasure at a fun resort the ballroom which is 865 m² (without any columns) accommodates up to 1000 people-suitable for car shows-can be divided into three sections. There are five meeting rooms 40-90 m², all with adjacent pre-function areas and equipped with modern audiovisual systems and internet connectivity.

The Marmara Antalya

The Marmara Bodrum

The Marmara Bodrum sets a business chic tone for high profile meetings and events for up to 125 people allowing for different seating arrangements the main meeting room can be divided into 3 breakout rooms, each with state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, high speed broadband and meeting packs.

The Marmara Bodrum

www.themarmaracollection.com

Genuine hospitality at inspirational locations...

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As an exquisite incentive location, D-Hotel Maris offers a taste of heaven on the untouched coast of southwest Turkey.

Peter Morrin explores the stunning landscape, spa facilities and superior amenities of this impeccable destination.

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ocated on the stunningly beautiful Datรงa Peninsula in southwest Turkey, the idyllic resort of D-Hotel Maris is a luxurious solution for the finest incentive travel. With breathtaking views over the crystal clear sea where the Mediterranean meets the Aegean, D-Hotel Maris is a peaceful paradise surrounded by uninhabited islands, luscious pine forests and bronze volcanic mountains. It is located within a unique reservation area of outstanding natural beauty and offers some of the most magnificent vistas in the whole of Turkey.

Nestling within 156,000 square metres of immaculately maintained, private land, D-Hotel Maris has been sumptuously renovated, and will be welcoming its first guests in the spring of 2012. The hotel was designed by the renowned

Singaporean company SCDA Architects in collaboration with the Turkish architectural firm MIDEK. The resulting style is a deliciously exotic fusion of oriental minimalism and chic Western modernity.

In addition to its spectacular design, picturesque setting and proximity to five alluring, Blue-Flag winning sandy beaches, the hotel provides a variety of guest rooms, suites and villas that are ideally suited for more intimate, high-end events or incentive visitors. A range of 200 luxurious guest rooms offer a choice of majestic views over either the tranquil sea or the misty, blue mountains, with most rooms benefitting from a balcony. Furthermore, all rooms have been especially designed and decorated to ensure the ultimate in relaxation and comfort.

turkey

Guests who book suites will benefit from exclusive access to the Executive Club Lounge – a spacious private lounge that is situated on the top floor of the hotel and offers the most impressive views of the bay. In addition to perfect privacy, personalised attention and a dedicated concierge service, the Executive Club Lounge delivers mouth-watering cuisine throughout the day. Lounge guests will also have access to the private beach, which offers stylish cabanas in which to relax while listening to the soothing sounds of the sea.

D-Hotel Maris provides numerous dining options, including the refined atmosphere of the breakfast restaurant, two exquisite à la carte restaurants that serve tempting Aegean, Ottoman and Asian cuisines, and a beach restaurant. The innovative fare at each of these

venues is freshly prepared, creatively designed and served with the highest standards of culinary art. Seven bars are situated around the resort area, which serve refreshing cocktails and provide a range of cultured entertainment, such as live traditional music during the evening hours.

As a luxury incentive travel destination, D-Hotel Maris provides a variety of exciting water sport facilities, including water-skiing, wakeboarding, a diving centre and a sailing school that issues international sailing licenses.

For superior conferencing, this exceptional hotel also provides a perfect meeting room for up to 70 guests, which includes up-to-date audiovisual equipment, conference package options and gala dinner preferences.

For guests who love to unwind in a relaxing

spa, D-Hotel Maris offers an especial treat; in the heart of this sophisticated resort is an oasis of peace and tranquillity. Designed by ESPA, the beautiful spa is an ideal escape from all stresses and strains, and an ideal incentive reward to help guests relax and rejuvenate. Expert therapists provide indulgent treatments, such as specialised facials and targeted body massages.

The spa’s clinicians use ESPA’s award-winning products, which are rich in the finest natural ingredients, in order to deliver outstanding results.

This exclusive resort also provides a private helicopter, which is available for airport transfers and excursions over the picturesque harbours and coves of this natural paradise. Two motor yachts and a custom-made 100 ft sailing yacht are also available for guests to hire. For a truly opulent experience, a private seaplane can also be booked to take guests from Istanbul and deliver them to D-Hotel Maris’s own private bay in less than two hours.

This superlative resort is only 130 km from Dalaman International Airport, 155 km from Bodrum International Airport, and 35 km from the charming city of Marmaris. Easily accessible, the D-Hotel Maris is a perfect incentive destination that offers a luxurious taste of Mediterranean heaven. l D-Hotel Maris P.O. Box 119 Datça Yolu Hisarönü Mevkii Marmaris/Mugla ˆ 48700 Turkey l Tel + 90 252 441 2000 l Fax + 90 252 436 9228 l E-Mail: info@dhotel.com.tr l Website: www.dhotel.com.tr l www.riminipalacongressi.it theMICEreport l 83

turkey

Illustrious Luxury in Istanbul theMICEreport

Awards 2012 Best Luxury Business Hotel: Turkey

G r a nd

C e v a h i r Ho t e l

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As the effervescent cultural, economic and financial heart of Turkey, Istanbul has defined luxury for thousands of years. Cliff James takes a look at the city’s award-winning hotel that raises the bar on luxury MICE travel: the Grand Cevahir Hotel and Conference Centre.

he thriving capital for a succession of imperial realms, Istanbul has been the majestic seat of the Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman Empires – a rich legacy that infuses the city’s breathtaking architecture and is recognised in the UNESCO World Heritage status of its historical areas. As the outstanding European Capital of Culture in 2010, the fame of this modern metropolis continues to flourish as Istanbul is a key contender to host the 2020 Summer Olympics.

Home to kings and emperors since time immemorial, Istanbul knows how to indulge international visitors in royal style, and the services for world-class meetings and conferences are second to none. Towering above its competitors, the Grand Cevahir Hotel and Convention Centre combines five-star comfort with five-star conference technology, and has been voted as the Best Luxury Business Hotel in Turkey in the renowned MICE Report Awards 2012.

Located in the centre of this city of a thousand minarets, the Grand Cevahir Hotel epitomises the convention hotel concept and is specially designed to cater for all requirements, from business meetings, product launches and international conferences to opulent banquets.

The hotel offers more than 300 rooms, including 237 standard rooms, 36 corner rooms and 3 disabled rooms, each with stunning views of the city’s exotic skyline. All rooms come with the first-class amenities that any business traveller could hope for, including air-conditioning, mini bar, internet access, satellite TV, private safes, bath phones, dry-cleaning services and 24-hour room service.

For MICE guests who demand a higher level of luxury, there are seven executive corner suites, 32 executive rooms and four vast presidential suites. Additionally, the Executive Floor privileges include private key card elevator access to the upper floors, a private lounge and breakfast buffet, complimentary five o’clock tea, and private meeting suites for up to 20 people.

Renowned for its superlative dining

options, the award-winning Grand Cevahir Hotel offers the most exquisite choices of international cuisine. Magnificently decorated in the style of the Ottoman palaces, the Sultan Restaurant offers seating for 150 diners in royal surroundings, with a VIP seating area for 20 guests and a luxuriant garden for 40 guests.

The Deliz Restaurant offers a capacity for 400 guests and serves a range of delicious Mediterranean and traditional Turkish cuisines from the open buffet and a la carte menus.

The Cevahir Patisserie is also on hand to serve a mouth-watering range of pastries, cakes and Turkish delicacies.

Most impressive of all for formal feasts fit for kings, the Grand Cevahir Ballroom is one of Europe’s most remarkable banqueting halls.

Stretching across 2,500 square metres, this vast hall has a capacity for 2000 dining guests, theatre seating for 3000 delegates or a cocktail gathering for 5000 guests. With the option of partitioning the hall into three rooms, the Ballroom is equipped with Barcovision digital projector services and giant electronic screens, lighting systems, simultaneous translation services for 13 languages, transmission facilities to all in-house TVs, and video conference broadcasting to any location in the world.

The conference centre also provides 22 multipurpose meeting rooms to suit every occasion, including the 1000-seater Cevahir Auditorium. The imposing range of state-ofthe-art conference facilities are surpassed only by the Cevahir’s designated Business Centre, which promptly provides secretarial services, photocopiers, faxes, PCs, printers and other equipment on request.

With access to the immaculate health club, swimming pool, sauna, solarium, Turkish baths and fitness centre, MICE visitors to the Grand Cevahir Hotel can enjoy the truly luxurious relaxation facilities on offer. Just 15 minutes from Atatürk International Airport and 10 minutes from the historical Old City, the Grand Cevahir Hotel and Conference Centre has justly earned the title of the Best Luxury Business Hotel in Turkey in this year’s MICE Report Awards. l theMICEreport l 85

istanbul

The

WOW Factor

With the completion of the stunning new development at WOW Istanbul’s Hotels and Convention Centre, Cliff James explores the biggest conference space with luxury accommodation in Istanbul.

A

five-star complex in the city that spans two continents, the WOW Istanbul Hotels and Convention Centre flawlessly combines luxurious comfort with state-of-the-art meetings facilities. To secure its position as a world leader in MICE events, WOW Istanbul has invested significantly in capacity with the addition of 21 new meeting halls. As Istanbul’s largest conference space with accommodation, the complex now offers a meeting area of 8,500 square metres, with the capacity to host 6,500 guests.

As Istanbul reached 7th place in global convention tourism, Ziya Cihan – the General Coordinator of WOW Istanbul Hotels & Convention Centre – stated that the stunning multi-complex is superbly placed to fulfil the needs of world-class events. “Keeping this growth and an ever-increasing demand for meetings in mind, we decided to invest in expansion, which finished at the beginning of this year,” says Cihan. “We were already home to Istanbul’s largest conference room at 3,108 square metres, but the new investment has enabled us to provide the largest meeting capacity with accommodation in Istanbul.”

With vast seven-metre-high ceilings, the largest conference room in this project covers a total area of 1,200 square metres and can hold up to 1,000 guests in a space that can be divided into three sections. Other meeting rooms within the complex vary in size from 70 to 225 square

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metres. The impressive new project also includes a sophisticated VIP lounge with a relaxation area, in addition to a range of elegant business and meeting rooms.

“As well as these new meeting rooms, there is a variety of social areas available that provide high-class entertainment and stylish dining options to cater to all our guests needs,” says Ziya Cihan. “This $20million project incorporates 34 new rooms and contributes to the vibrant vicinity by significantly increasing Istanbul’s meeting capacity. Thanks to the new project at the WOW Convention Centre, YeŞilköy has become Istanbul’s second largest ‘convention valley’.”

Comprising the four-star WOW Airport Hotel, the five-star WOW Istanbul Hotel and the WOW Convention Centre, this stunning complex provides 635 rooms and 1,270 beds for conference and meetings guests.

More importantly, the three buildings of this complex can also be utilised separately or as a single facility, depending upon the particular requirements of the event.

As one would expect, the biggest accommodation capacity in Istanbul also provides an exceptionally proficient event support service. “Our experienced team and special gift concepts, combined with this amazing architectural structure, enable us to make a significant difference to every kind of event,” says Ziya Cihan. “From international conferences,

business meetings and incentive accommodation, the WOW Istanbul Hotels and Convention Centre offers outstanding comfort and a vast array of options within a single complex.”

The four-star WOW Airport Hotel, for example, has 360 stylishly designed rooms and a variety of leisure, health and wellbeing services to enable visitors to relax after their conference.

With an on-site coffee shop restaurant and stylish lobby bar, MICE guests can unwind at the fully equipped Health Club, which includes a sauna, Turkish bath, fitness centre and a massage room.

Alternatively, the WOW Istanbul Hotel offers five-star luxury throughout its inspiring complex of 275 executive rooms, suites and standard rooms.

Serving the best of Turkish and international cuisines, the chic ambiance and talented kitchen team of the Restaurant Mezzanine really make a difference. With a glass-ceiling swimming pool, fitness hall, Turkish bath, sauna, massage room and vitamin bar, the WOW Istanbul Hotel provides an impressive selection of first-rate health facilities for guests. Furthermore, the hotel’s Executive Lounge, which includes a food and drinks buffet as part of its rich selection of services, has been custom-designed for guests who enjoy a privileged service.

As a truly remarkable setting for conventions and meetings, the Main Hall at the WOW Convention Centre has a seating capacity for 4,000 delegates in a pillar-free theatre, offering a myriad of meeting options. The facilities also include 13 fully equipped meeting rooms that can accommodate a range of events from 20 to 235 guests. With the completion of this vast, new development project, the WOW Convention Centre augments Istanbul’s status as a genuinely world-class MICE destination. l

360

RESTAURANT

MEZZANINE

WINGS BAR

ROOMS

8.500 m2

MEETING AREA

HEALTH

CLUB

POOL

275

ROOMS

COFFEE SHOP RESTAURANT

SWIMMING

6.500

FITNESS CENTER

PEOPLE

CAPACITY

34

MEETING ROOMS

SOME PEOPLE SAY YOU CAN’T HAVE IT ALL

PICK ONE TAKE ALL Imagine a complex…

5 star WOW Istanbul Hotel and 4 star WOW Airport Hotel and congress center WOW Convention Center located in the same complex with pleasant and comfortable rooms, restaurants and bars, health clubs, 34 meeting rooms and 6500 pax capacity.

www.wowhotelsistanbul.com +90 212 444 0 969

The heart of congresses and meetings beats here

European Cities Marketing

European cities are up and looking east

As Europe attracts an increasing share of the international meetings market, European Cities Marketing – the network of leading tourist offices and conventions bureaux – is setting its sights on Russia, India and China. Garry White investigates the benefits of marketing European destinations to the resilient Eastern economies.

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IN

2011, European cities continued their upward trend.

The European Cities Marketing Benchmarking Report 2012 – produced

by European Cities Marketing (ECM) – indicates that member cities are achieving an average year on year growth of 6.2 percent domestically and 7 percent internationally. Perhaps more surprisingly, the first results also revealed that the fastest growing source markets were Russia (up 33 percent) and China (up 22 percent).

Garry White, the incoming CEO of European Cities Marketing who has spent the last five years working in the Asia Pacific region as Regional Director for Visit Britain, claims that the BRIC markets – and in particular Russia, India and China – are already important source markets for European Cities.

“These economies are strong and they never really felt the impact of the global economic crisis as we did in Europe,” says Garry White. “You

have a huge middle-class segment emerging together with a significant high net worth, luxury segment and there is a lot of interest in travel to Europe. From a Chinese perspective, Europe is fascinating – but a lot of their perceptions are shaped by the film industry and European consumer brands.

The challenge and the opportunity is to present a product that is more tailormade to a Chinese/BRIC audience.

“My belief and experience indicates that Europe is more attractive as an idea than a set of individual countries, and that cities are far more interesting than the countries they belong to. Chinese buyers and consumers would be far more attracted by the idea of visiting a number of European cities than visiting any one country in Europe; this presents us with a tremendous opportunity at ECM.” The China and Asia Meetings Industry Research Report 2011, which was sponsored by CIBTM, supports this analysis. A poll of Chinese meeting

Ours is the commitment to providing you with a venue of great potential.

Yours is the pleasure of living moments that will be turned into an unforgettable experience in vast ultramodern spaces.

via della Fiera 23 — 47923 Rimini ph. +39 0541 711500 — fax +39 0541 711505 www.riminipalacongressi.it info@riminipalacongressi.it

Saturday October 15th 2011 inaugural event Sunday October 16th 2011 open day

European Cities Marketing Amitabh Kant has been the key driver of the ‘Incredible India’ and ‘God’s Own Country’ campaigns

industry buyers cited Europe as the second most attractive destination after domestic/North Asia and, interestingly, suggested that green, environmental and CSR issues are becoming increasingly important in the decision-making process. However, the product is very little known yet and surprisingly undersold. Europe stands to lose considerable market share to aggressive competitors who recognise the opportunity.

Considering the opportunity that these markets present for the leisure and meetings industry, European Cities Marketing – the network of leading tourist offices and conventions bureaux in Europe – is building BRIC into its forward strategy, starting with its annual conference. Hosted in Zagreb in June, this annual conference is entitled: ‘BRIC markets – Focus on Russia, India, China An opportunity for European Cities.’

The ECM BRIC conference will manifestly assist the meeting and leisure industries prepare for a period of unprecedented change and opportunity, and also learn from best practice. The keynote speaker will be Amitabh Kant, the man behind the Incredible India campaign and currently CEO of Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC). DMIC is the largest infrastructure project in India since Chandigarh, which involved leading international architects such as Le Corbusier. The DMIC initiative has a budget of US$90 billion and involves the creation of seaports, airports and up to 90 l theMICEreport

“The challenge and the opportunity is to present a product that is more tailor-made to a Chinese/BRIC audience” Garry White, CEO, European Cities Marketing

36 smart new cities.

Mr Amitabh Kant is also the author of ‘Branding India – An Incredible Story’, and has been the key driver of the ‘Incredible India’ and ‘God’s Own Country’ campaigns, which positioned and branded India and the Kerala State as leading tourism destinations. Both these campaigns have won several international awards and embraced a host of activities - including infrastructure developments, product enhancements, private-public partnerships, and positioning and branding based on extensive market research.

Other invited guests include specialists and experts on China including Roy Graff, an accomplished

business development and marketing specialist who has worked closely with tour operators, media and government officials in Asia, Europe, Middle East and North America, and Sally Greenhill, a destination development specialist.

The Russian market will be covered by experts from TMI Moscow and Moscow tourism advisory Committee, Helen Lloyd and Alexey Volov.

Reflecting on these expanding opportunities, Garry White claims that cities never stand still. “In the future every city will need to compete globally for their fair share of talent, business, meetings and tourism,” he says. “Our BRIC conference will lay the foundation for our approach in BRIC markets. We are already mapping out the possibility for a Meet Europe event in either India or China – or both – in 2013. I think it is becoming clear that Russia, India and China present a great opportunity for European Cities.

These are not future markets; they are happening now.” l www.europeancitiesmarketing.com

*ECM (European Cities Marketing) improves the competitiveness and performance of leading cities of Europe by providing a platform for convention, leisure and city marketing professionals to exchange knowledge, best practice and widen their network to build new business. European Cities Marketing is promoting and linking the interests of more than 120 members from more than 100 major cities in 32 countries.

For more information and pictures, please contact: Flavie Baudot, press@europeancitiesmarketing.com, +33 380 56 02 00

barcelona

A trend-setting destination that delivers high-quality business meetings and conferences, Barcelona boasts some of the world’s most cutting-edge facilities, a service-led enterprising spirit, and a truly unforgettable cityscape.

Caroline Branwell explores the delights of the destination that has won the Best MICE City and the Best Convention Bureau in South-West Europe in The MICE Report Awards 2012.

B

arcelona is famed as much for being a must-visit capital of high culture as for holding world-class conferences and expositions. Having positioned itself at the forefront of meetings tourism over the past 20 years, this stunning city is now universally recognised as a MICE destination par excellence.

With a colourful 2,000 year-old history, Barcelona has been home to many diverse cultures and peoples, and this deep-seated hospitality is indelibly marked the city’s character. Amongst others, the Romans, Arabs, Jews and Christians have all left their mark on the city, creating a spectacular fusion of architectures, heritages, monuments, cultures and cuisines Naturally, this influx of cultures has made Barcelona an open, cosmopolitan and very welcoming place. The city is compact, easy to get around, and visitors feel instantly at home. This innate hospitality is highly valued by MICE organisers who recognise that professional meetings are about more than just efficiency and quality facilities. Attendees also want to feel and experience the destination, and this is what Barcelona offers in abundance – an unforgettable experience.

The city’s meetings and expositions industry knows it has to strive to be continuously exceptional and outdo itself each year – particularly because of the high level of competition from other destinations.

Consequently, the promotion of the city as a leading MICE destination requires persistence, imagination and a great deal of hard work.

The proof is in the pudding, and – despite the world recession – Barcelona saw an increase in MICE participants, meetings and overnight stays last year. Obviously, the city does have some powerful inherent pull factors in its favour: the architecture, culture and climate to name a few. However, repeatedly delivering the level of excellence demanded by meetings organisers does require continuous effort.

Barcelona has always enjoyed certain natural advantages. It is blessed with an alluring location

surpassing the expectations of event organisers.

Barcelona was provided with a tremendous opportunity to create a city that would appeal to quality tourism when it hosted the Olympic Games in 1992. Rather than rest on its Olympic laurels, the city took significant steps to ensure the triumph of this tourism legacy, with the official launch of the Barcelona Convention Bureau in 1993. One of the secrets of the Bureau’s success has been the way it works in partnership with public and private sectors to create seamless processes that event organisers and meetings professionals know they can trust.

For example, wasteland areas that in 1992 stood idle are now the site of immaculate MICE facilities as a result of strategic plans and investment, which have focused on quality and sustainable MICE tourism. The city’s hotels are another case in point. A major plan was put in place to increase the number of beds on offer to meet the demand of tourists for the 1992 Olympics. However, since then, the hotel sector has doubled its bed count to more than 60,000 places, with the majority of these in the higher star categories.

Consequently, Barcelona now boasts some of the finest business and conference hotels, with major national and international chains all represented. Furthermore, the fact that innovative new hotels are still opening up in the city is testimony to the continuous strength of Barcelona’s reputation as an attractive, exciting and events-friendly destination.

The provision of superb MICE facilities is another factor in Barcelona’s success. The city now has three major congress venues that are

“The Mediterranean diet is certainly fashionable at the moment, but Barcelona has also played a significant role in promoting itself as the capital of food.”

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overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, a year-long mild climate, matchless gastronomy based on traditional Catalan recipes and quality produce.

The Mediterranean diet is certainly fashionable at the moment, but Barcelona has also played a significant role in promoting itself as the capital of food.

To become such an outstanding MICE destination requires planning, talent and vision – and this is exactly what the Barcelona Convention Bureau supplies in abundance.

Winner of the hotly contested Best Convention Bureau in South-West Europe in this year’s MICE Report Awards, the Barcelona Convention Bureau constantly strives and succeeds in

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able to accommodate the largest of meetings.

Each venue offers the flexibility, service and technical requirements needed to make events of every size a resounding success.

It is equally important for top MICE destinations to offer efficient transport connections to the rest of the world, and Barcelona is well connected by road, rail and air. The city’s airport is an international hub that is easily accessible from anywhere in the world and has become a key asset in attracting highlevel meetings and conferences. Furthermore, the city’s newly developed high-speed railway connection to the rest of Europe is also proving a highly significant draw for the professional meetings sector.

Something different In today’s competitive MICE environment, cities are expected to provide a variety of options for meetings and congresses because there is no such thing as a ‘one size fits all’ venue.

It goes without saying that each MICE event has its own distinctive needs and Barcelona prides itself on being able to offer something different for every organiser. Whether it is a congress hall, auditorium, meeting room or unique location for a product presentation, Barcelona offers an impressive range of settings, scenes and opportunities for all occasions.

Behind the scenes, the Barcelona Convention Bureau works with a wide range of service companies and venues to ensure that meetings run like clockwork and meet the highest international standards. The professionals making this business tick in Barcelona have the know-how and experience acquired over many years working with some of the best meetings professionals and organisations in the world. Brand Barcelona is flourishing because of this collaborative way of working. The depth of understanding between private and public sector professionals ensures

that all partners pull in the same direction to guarantee excellence of service delivery.

The combination of professional excellence, world-class MICE facilities and leisure activities is a winning one. Barcelona’s outdoor lifestyle is a particular attraction for meetings, incentive and conference visitors who want to enjoy the city in their downtime. The simplest of activities – such as taking a swim in the crystal-clean sea off the coast of one of Europe’s major metropolises – really is highly rewarding. So too is strolling down a traditional Catalan street, browsing in unique and appealing shops, or relaxing in a charming plaza for an afternoon drink, or even stumbling upon a bustling marketplace full of beautifully presented fresh produce. These are the memorable colours of Barcelona which make the place so vibrant and full of life.

and innovative chefs – to delight the taste buds of all visitors.

Barcelona’s appeal also comes from its contradictions. Ultra modern and with prizewinning architecture that inspires, the city is also replete with unrivalled art nouveau buildings and UNESCO World Heritage sites and monuments.

Throughout history, Barcelona has always played host to the leading exponents of avantgarde movements: from Picasso and Miró to Gaudí to name but a few – an artistic legacy that is visible around corner. This process of discovery and excitement is part of the Barcelona experience.

As the capital of Catalonia, Barcelona champions the traditions and customs that have helped make the country what it is today: a leading region in Europe. The preservation of that distinctive culture ensures that MICE visitors enjoy an authentic experience. This unbeatable mix of place, excellent meetings services and facilities and, above all, professional and welcoming people has made Barcelona a world-leading destination for the professional meetings sector.

Barcelona has had the chance of hosting some of the world’s most prestigious events, like international sporting events, global trade fairs and exhibitions, not to mention high-level congresses, conventions and incentive travel. In addition, MICE visitors frequently return afterwards to sample the city in their own time, to do things they did not have time to do, or simply because they enjoy being part of the place.

A unique and unforgettable destination, Barcelona has justly deserved the title of Best MICE City in South-West Europe in this year’s MICE Report Awards. And, with the Barcelona Convention Bureau winning this year’s Best Convention Bureau in South-West Europe, all meetings professionals can be assured of an unbeatable event, supported by a prize-winning team, at this flawless Mediterranean destination. l

“Throughout history, Barcelona has always played host to the leading exponents of avant-garde movements: from Picasso and Miró to Gaudí.”

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Barcelona offers these relaxing and satisfying experiences because it has invested heavily in creating an immaculate city where quality of life is given maximum priority. Although MICE visitors might only be temporary residents in this remarkable city, they too are able to immerse themselves in this unique quality of life during their stay.

The city’s vibrant entertainment and cultural offer ensures visitors can enjoy the best opera, ballet, concerts, theatre shows, festivals, art exhibitions, museums and heritage sites.

Furthermore, as a cosmopolitan gourmet city, there is an incredible array of restaurants – boasting some of the world’s most celebrated

THE CZECH REPUBLIC PROVIDES AN EXCELLENT EXAMPLE OF EUROPEAN DIVERSITY: in one small area, a number of completely diverse regions come together, all easily within reach of one another. In Prague, as well as other Czech cities, you will find a quiet and safe destination, excellent accessibility thanks to 5 international airports and international rail connections, and many luxury hotels and conference centres that meet international standards as regards quality and capacity.

The Czech Republic

A Stunningly

Different Destination

THE CZECH CONVENTION BUREAU provides all events organisers with a variety of complimentary services and tools tailored to suit all your needs.

CONTACT DETAILS: CzechTourism – Czech Convention Bureau, Vinohradska 46, 120 41 Prague 2, Czech Republic Phone: +420 221 580 111, Fax: +420 221 580 463 czechconvention@czechtourism.cz or visit www.czechconvention.com and www.czechtourism.com

Rimini

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Rimini

Rimini Palacongressi Italy’s largest dedicated conference centre R

ecently launched with a spectacular inauguration ceremony, Rimini’s Palacongressi is now one of Europe’s largest and most impressive stateof-the-art conference centres, and is already dominating the continent’s event calendar.

More than 1,500 Italian and international guests were invited to participate in the official opening ceremony during the first day, with approximately 20,000 visitors exploring the Palacongressi during the Open Day. From the extraordinary musical firework display to the numerous entertainment performances that brought colour and life to every corner of the centre, the inauguration days gave unforgettable memories to all who attended.

The new Rimini Palacongressi has been designed by renowned architect Volkwin Marg of Hamburg’s Studio GMP, one of the fifteen leading names in contemporary town planning.

Consequently, the Palacongressi di Rimini is not just innovative in terms of its flexibility of use for conferences, exhibitions and other types of events, but it also represents an important master plan at an urban level. With a focus on energy-saving policies and environmental quality, the development is connected to both the historic city centre and the seafront through scenic city parks.

This spectacular centre is comprised of two imaginative blocks, which contain a maximum of 39 rooms for 9,000 seats. As a result of a cleverly designed system of mobile soundproof partition walls, the majority of these halls can be subdivided into smaller areas. All the spaces are extremely versatile and modular, so that

A breathtaking architectural masterpiece on the Adriatic coast, Italy’s largest state-of-theart conference centre opens its doors several events can be held simultaneously.

Furthermore, the complex provides 500 underground car parks, superb exhibition spaces of up to 11,000 square metres, and the opportunity to provide every event area with catering and food services.

As the events market is necessarily orientated towards the latest conferencing technology, the Palacongressi offers the ultimate in high-tech, state-of-the-art facilities in order to meet all requirements. The distinctive feature of the conference centre, set in the first block, is the large shell-shaped amphitheatre, the Anfiteatro Hall, which is 23 metres high and provides 1,600 seats.

A vast pearl made of royal white granite, Europe’s largest sphere-shaped monolith, rises from the ground at the main entrance. Rotating on a sheet of water, this huge monolith offers a visual link with the spectacular shell within which the Anfiteatro Hall is housed. The second block hosts the main room, the Piazza Hall, which stands at 12 metres high and has an impressive seating capacity of 4,700.

The names of these halls evoke special bonds with aspects and localities in the town of Rimini, in keeping with the town planning and

architectural tradition of Italy. Furthermore the Palacongressi features some of the inherent characteristics of its genius loci – or native spirit of the area; the traditional colours of the Adriatic beaches, the turquoise, blue and green nuances of the sea, and the Roman lines of the amphitheatre that encircle and protect the pearl in its shell.

Rimini Convention Bureau is the company responsible for managing this exciting new centre. The Bureau is able to assist clients in every aspect of event management: from the bidding process to the personalised planning of the spaces, while also proposing selected professional service providers. Furthermore, event organisers can also take advantage of a partnership between the Palacongressi and a network of high-end hotels that offer consistent block bookings at the very best market rates. l

Contact us for a personalised proposal: Convention Bureau della Riviera di Rimini l T: +39 0541711500 l F: +39 0541711505 l info@riminiconvention.it l www.riminiconvention.it l info@riminipalacongressi.it l www.riminipalacongressi.it theMICEreport l 97

Photo: Jรถrg Hejkal

Come for business

and stay for pleasure!

During the day a successful convention. At noon an epicurean break with a glass of Moselle wine and a gourmet meal. In the evening a reception with a gastronomic climax in a venerable abbey or a medieval castle. Let the day fade away afterwards in one of the cosy bistros of the old town with its unique ramparts, a cultural monument of the UNESCO world heritage.

Discover the diversity of the City of Luxembourg!

Luxembourg Convention Bureau tel. (+352) 22 75 65 fax (+352) 46 70 73 e-mail: convention.bureau@lcto.lu www.lcb.lu

amsterdam

Hospitable, historical and hauntingly classical, Cliff James takes a look at the consummate cultural attractions and worldclass conference facilities of the Venice of the North.

S

ince its earliest beginnings, Amsterdam has been an outwardlooking hive of global trade.

Perched on the north-west corner of Europe, it was perfectly placed to be the financial and business capital of the Netherlands – and Europe’s wealthiest port city – in the 17th century boomtimes of commercial exploration. The nexus of a profitable trading network that stretched from the Baltic to North America, Brazil, Africa, India and even Indonesia, Amsterdam held sway over a vast business empire and was universally recognised as the financial centre of the world. This trading empire named one of its investments New Amsterdam – a colonial settlement on the southern tip

of Manhattan Island; of course, we now refer to that particular trading outpost as New York.

Even today, the legacy of Amsterdam’s golden age of commercial supremacy can be witnessed in the city’s architecture, in its cosmopolitan culture, and in its continuing success as a world-class business destination. According to the European Cities Monitor, Amsterdam has overtaken Brussels to become the fourth best European city in which to locate an international business, and looks set to rise up the ratings even further over the coming years. Consequently, many of the world’s top businesses have elected to base their headquarters in the city, including ING Group, TomTom, Philips and Delta Lloyd Group.

As a magnet for such global businesses, it is no surprise that this exceptional city also attracts a wealth of international meetings and events to its excellent conference centres. Coming up in 2013, for example, Amsterdam will be welcoming a multitude of government ministers, leading academics and influential decision-makers to a range of conferences, including the

International Conference on Internet Security, the International Conference on Nuclear Physics and Atomic Energy, the International Labour and Employment Relations Association and the Global Conference on Sustainability and Reporting.

Accustomed to hosting the most significant international gatherings, Amsterdam boasts an extensive range of first-class conference venues and meetings facilities that can accommodate events of every kind. Offering 370 superlative hotels, of which 12 are international five-star favourites, and more than 48,000 hotel beds, this city is capable of entertaining on a colossal scale.

One of the largest and most highly regarded conference centres in Amsterdam – in fact, in the whole of the Netherlands – is the Amsterdam RAI. Hosting a myriad of international trade fairs, exhibitions and congresses each year, the RAI is the ne plus ultra of MICE venues. Sophisticated, stylish and fully air-conditioned throughout, the RAI offers a total of 87,000 square metres of event space, with 11 multifunctional halls that are perfectly equipped for everything from theMICEreport l 99

amsterdam Also close to the financial heartland of the city, a few minute’s walk from the RAI Congress Centre, the luxury five-star Hotel Okura towers over the banks of the Amstel Canal. The award-winning Okura is an impeccably elegant venue that offers a total of 2,700 square metres of meeting space, high-speed wireless internet access and a selection of chic, naturally lit conference rooms that are fully equipped with state-of-the-art meetings technology and supported by a dedicated, in-house IT team. With 300 opulent guest bedrooms, a first-class health and relaxation suite – including a swimming pool and gym – and an exquisite restaurant which can customise delectable menus to suit the requirements of each event, the Hotel Okura is a worldrenowned meetings and incentive venue of the highest calibre.

Cornucopia of delights

exhibitions and trade fairs to sports or cultural events. RAI’s Congress Centre contains 22 impressive conference rooms that can host events for up to 1750 delegates, while the exhibition halls can easily be fitted out to accommodate larger conferences.

Catering facilities at the RAI are worldclass, as one would expect of a leading global congress centre. With an overall capacity to comfortably serve more than 3,000 guests at its award-winning restaurants, event organisers can elect to hold a gala banquet in the sumptuous Grand Ballroom, which offers a staffed cloakroom, mouth-watering menus that can be adapted to fit the theme of any event, and vast windows that provide magnificent views over Amsterdam’s stunning cityscape. Alternatively, meeting planners can host delicious post-event dinners in one of the four self-service restaurants, or the stylish Ronde or Brasserie restaurants, which offer a waiter service and speciality cuisines in elegant surroundings.

Easily accessible for MICE visitors, the unrivalled RAI Congress Centre is situated beside the World Trade Centre in Amsterdam’s smart business quarter, just a ten-minute train ride from the city’s main international airport. Of particular interest for delegates seeking to experience the city’s unique character, the RAI boasts a landing stage for canal boat trips along the charming 17th century canals, which are recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

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The World Trade Centre in Amsterdam’s smart business quarter

Museumplein – the most visited tourist venue in The Netherlands

In addition to such classic conference centres, Amsterdam offers a cornucopia of cultural delights for MICE visitors to explore and enjoy in their downtime.

The Dutch Golden Age lavished the city with historical elegance, eye-catching architecture and a legendary network of scenic canals – a picturesque heritage that sits side by side with remarkable modern art galleries, an abundance of fashionable shopping opportunities, and vibrant pop, rock and jazz festivals throughout the year.

Having provided a safe haven for multitudes of political and religious refugees over the past 400 years – including Huguenots from France, Protestants from Spain, and Jews and radical free-thinkers from across Europe – Amsterdam has a deep-rooted history of religious, social and intellectual tolerance.

This rich culture of diversity, hospitality and open-mindedness is evident in the city’s vibrantly cosmopolitan character today, making it one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations.

Event organisers preparing incentive and cultural programmes are spoilt for

choice, as the Venice of the North proffers more than 50 museums, including the poignant Anne Frank House and the unmissable Rijksmuseum. Displaying a vast collection of Dutch Masters from the Golden Age, including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch, Steen’s The Feast of Saint Nicholas and Vermeer’s The Milk Maid, plus a vast collection of elaborate Asian art, the Rijksmuseum never fails to satisfy as one of Europe’s best-loved art venues.

The Stedelijk Museum, situated in Amsterdam’s Museumplein (Museum Square), is an absolute must-see for MICE visitors with even the vaguest interest in contemporary art. Holding an incredible 90,000 objects, the Stedelijk is one of the world’s most comprehensive modern art collections, exhibiting a diverse range of sculptures, paintings and installations by names as famous as Matisse, Chagall, Kandinsky, Picasso, Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol.

Located nearby, also on Museumplein, is the most visited tourist venue in The Netherlands, the unforgettable Van Gogh Museum.

Guaranteed to stir the imagination and leave an indelible impression, the museum was ingeniously designed and curated to narrate the story of the tortured artist from his earliest works, such as The Potato Eaters, to his Sunflowers and self-portraits, to the awe-inspiring presentation of his final Wheatfield With Crows. No visit to Amsterdam can claim to be complete without a trip to this extraordinary site.

For MICE visitors in search of lively entertainment, Amsterdam offers 55 world-class theatres and concert halls, with 16,000 musical and theatrical performances each year. The Heineken Music Hall, for example, hosts an array of annual jazz, classical, electronic dance and pop festivals. For delegates seeking to unwind with a spot of high-end shopping, Amsterdam is a fashionista’s paradise, with a huge range of department stores and charismatic boutiques, from the vast Parisian-style Maison de Bonneterie to the captivating designer emporiums of the Pieter Cornelisz Hooftstraat.

A smartly designed transport network ensures Amsterdam is well-connected with tramlines, an efficient metro service, water buses and taxis, and canal cruises.

Served by five intercity railway stations and the excellent Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, the Venice of the North is easily accessible and offers a wealth of cultural, artistic and historical treasures to complement its world-class conferencing facilities. l

hotel okura amsterdam

Hotel Okura Amsterdam Experience True Hospitality Overlooking the beautiful Amstel Canal, the Hotel Okura Amsterdam provides a luxurious range of event options for every occasion. Cliff James investigates the warm hospitality, outstanding facilities and first-class service of this five-star destination.

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otel Okura Amsterdam is one of the finest five-star luxury hotels to be found in The Netherlands, and is a member of the exclusive Leading Hotels of the World group.

It is conveniently located close to Schiphol International Airport and is in the vicinity of many major tourist attractions. With 301 exquisitely comfortable rooms, the hotel offers unrivalled high-class accommodation facilities with extraordinary views of this historic city.

It also provides two bars and four first-class restaurants, three of which have achieved enviable awards from Michelin. This culinary expertise is reflected in the conference and events department of the hotel, which provides exclusive buffet options and restaurant-style food and service.

The hotel’s entire first floor consists of 2,800m2 of multifunctional areas. With no fewer than 19 banquet rooms and two spectacular foyers, Hotel Okura Amsterdam is able to provide an impressive amount of space for meetings of up to 1,500 delegates.

Furthermore, the conference floor has recently been renovated, giving the rooms a new and sophisticated ambience.

The sunlight, shining through the trees and forming patterns on the walls, was the inspiration for the stunning design of the renovated conference floor. The result is a décor of gentle colours and a carpet containing 14 different shades of green – all of which exudes a sense

of peace and comfort that is characteristic of the Okura brand.

With picturesque views over the renowned Amstel Canal, the 900m2 Grand Ballroom has many options for all occasions. LED lights have been added to the lighting plan, allowing 30 different lighting tones to reflect the ideal atmosphere for every event: whether it is a culinary dinner, cocktail reception or world-class conference. With its own separate entrance, a freight elevator and two kitchens, a range of spectacular events can be hosted in the Grand Ballroom.

The hotel’s smaller rooms have been fitted with built-in beamers and screens, ideal for video conferencing and meetings as well as receptions and festive get-togethers. The innovative 55-inch multi-touch screen at the centre of the foyer provides an ingenious information display; by touching the screen,

guests can view various parts of the hotel, including floor plans and pictures. It is also possible for this screen to be customised with the logos and images of companies holding their events at the hotel. With an exclusive canal pier, excellent parking facilities, internal audio-visual support and in-house options for spouse programs, the Hotel Okura Amsterdam guarantees a unique and complete experience.

While enjoying the relaxing ambience of this attractive five-star hotel, meeting delegates can also be treated to a culinary surprise in Serre Restaurant. Here, the traditional Japanese bento box is given a contemporary westernstyle makeover, and contains delicious international seafood, meat and vegetable dishes and even a dessert. This luxury wooden lunch box enables diners to enjoy a full lunch within 50 minutes for only €39.50 - a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy a delicious meal in between business meetings. l Hotel Okura Amsterdam Ferdinand Bolstraat 333 1072 LH Amsterdam l +31 20 6787 790 l events@okura.nl l www.okura.nl

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amsterdam

A Dutch Alliance Known variously as the city of canals, freedom and diamonds, Amsterdam’s legendary cultural mix complements the superb conferencing facilities on offer. As part of this unique offer, Cliff James looks at the auspicious new alliance between KLM Airlines and Amsterdam’s RAI Exhibition and Conference Centre.

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he centre of world finance and the diamond trade during the Dutch Golden Age, it is no surprise that Amsterdam still retains its reputation as a gilt-edged destination for business conferences and trade shows.

As the jewel in the city’s conferencing crown, the world-famous Amsterdam RAI Exhibition and Conference Centre contains the perfect combination of superior service, secure high performance ICT equipment and state-of-the-art audio-visual facilities to ensure every event is a memorable success.

For delegates and visitors, the conference or exhibition experience does not begin with their arrival at the doors of the Amsterdam RAI, but before they start their journey. Recognising that the trip to the City of Diamonds is an important part of the experience, Amsterdam RAI and KLM Airlines have joined forces to offer the most comfortable, convenient and best value journey to the city.

As part of this unique collaboration, companies and event organisers can use an online booking tool to offer KLM airline tickets 102 l theMICEreport

through their own website, making it easier for delegates to arrange their way to the event.

This guarantees that visitors and exhibitors have access to good value tickets from the Netherlands’ largest airline company.

This exclusive tool also offers visitors to the event website a five- to ten-percent discount on a wide range of published fares in Economy and Business Class seating on Air France and KLM flights, and their KL/AF flight number codes share flights with Alitalia, CityJet, Delta Airlines and Kenya Airways. In addition to these discounts for visitors and exhibitors, tickets can also be earned by the company organising the event.

One of the world’s most respected airlines, KLM flies direct to Amsterdam from 131 airports in key economic regions around the globe. Due to KLM’s membership of the SkyTeam alliance, visitors and exhibitors can fly in comfort and absolute ease to Amsterdam and back from 921 cities in 168 countries. As a pleasant journey is a key element to a successful event, meetings and exhibition organisers can rest assured that

visitors will arrive at Amsterdam Rai with the most favourable expectations.

The spectacular Amsterdam RAI has everything needed to organise and deliver an outstanding convention, exhibition or event. As a well-established meetings venue, the RAI offers superb accessibility, multi-functional rooms and every modern convenience to meet the unique demands of today’s business environment.

Located close to Amsterdam’s picturesque central parks of Amstelpark, Martin Luther Kingpark and Beatrixpark, the Amsterdam RAI is conveniently situated just south of the city centre. The centre benefits from excellent access by road and the efficient Dutch public transport system. It is also less than eight minutes from Schiphol airport, one of Europe’s best-served and most efficient airports. l

To find out more about the cooperation between Amsterdam Rai and KLM and this unique online booking tool, ask your representative at Amsterdam RAI, contact marcom@rai.nl or visit www.rai.nl/klm

YOU’RE AN ORGANISER. CREATE AN IMPACT WITH YOUR EVENT. PLANNING, MARKETING AND OPERATIONS ARE KEY PRINCIPLES REQUIRED TO REACH YOUR GOALS. HOWEVER, TO ACHIEVE ASSURED SUCCESS YOU NEED TO ADD REAL VALUE. MAKE A STEP FORWARD AND RAISE YOUR EVENT TO THE NEXT LEVEL. AMSTERDAM RAI CONVENTION CENTRE. WE WELCOME YOU TO OUR CITY.

SUCCESS FORMULA FOR A GREATER IMPACT ADDED VALUE > HOSPITALITY > > > > > > > > >

Attractive and open to the world 24/7 Customer focused service Top-class business environment 41,000 Hotel beds Exciting and charming city 1,250 Restaurants Rich cultural program 106 Theatres and museums Lively night life

Contact us for more information at +31 20 549 12 12, welcome@rai.nl or visit www.rai.nl

theMICEreport

Awards 2012 Best Convention Bureau: SE Europe

At he

n s C on ve nt io n B u r e a u

Athens The City of The Gods Rich in culture, steeped in ancient history and rightfully renowned as the birthplace of Western civilization, Athens has been revered as the fountainhead of philosophy and scientific wisdom for thousands of years. With state-of-the-art Olympic sports and conferencing facilities and flawless yearround weather, Cliff James investigates the unique opportunities for business events in this phenomenal City of Learning.

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urrounded by crystal-clear waters and spectacular mountains that inspired the ancient Greek poets to produce some of Europe’s finest literature, Athens is an unforgettable visitors’ park filled with countless cultural gems.

From the magnificent Acropolis, crowned by the legendary Parthenon, to the Byzantine churches, Ottoman monuments and mediaeval monasteries, Athens offers an array of activities for MICE visitors who wish to indulge in the history, culture, gastronomy, shopping and leisure activities of this celebrated metropolis. Delegates can immerse themselves in the timeless world of Plato and Aristotle, strolling along the longest and most beautiful archaeological pedestrian promenade in Europe, and stand among the

remnants of the Periclean Golden Age that are now UNESCO heritage sites.

From breathtaking archaeological sites, ancient amphitheatres and historical museums to modern art galleries, concert halls and opera houses, this ancient city offers an unrivalled variety of leisure itineraries for incentive and conference visitors to enjoy. Boasting more blue flag beaches than any other European city and an outstanding gastronomic scene that celebrates a true Mediterranean fusion of gourmet menus, Athens breathes professional hospitality. With hundreds of chic restaurants, stylish bars and traditional tavernas with live music, visitors are spoilt for culinary choice.

For business visitors who prefer to combine luxurious living and modern activities with trips to

ancient sites, this travel-friendly city also provides an extensive range of luxury hotels and spas, fashionable shops, 150 theatres, 200 indoor cinemas and 100 outdoor cinemas. Blend these contemporary facilities with a myriad of traditional street markets and boutique bazaars, and Athens becomes an event organiser’s dream destination.

However, it is not simply the preponderance of leisure and archaeological attractions that position Athens as an exceptional MICE location.

It was the magnificent successes of the 2004 Olympic Games and the 2011 Special Olympics that proved beyond any doubt that Athens has the resources, infrastructure and facilities to host world-class mega events. And, as a major European capital city, Athens has a highly professional and fully developed MICE support industry, with extensive experience of providing logistical and operational support for events and meetings of all sizes.

For conference planners who dare to think outside the box, extraordinary events can be hosted at one of this ancient city’s unique venues.

For example, with the assistance of local event organisations, any one of the fully renovated historic buildings close to the Athens Stock Exchange could be the location for seminars, lectures or business meetings – ensuring a memorable experience for every delegate.

Alternatively, events can be hosted at one of the many new state-of-the-art conference facilities that are continually being developed to boost business tourism. Furthermore, innovative

10 reasons to meet in Athens 1 2

Weather: The average temperature during April is 14 - 22 Co and daylight lasts for between eight and nine hours.

Access: Athens has one of the finest, award-winning airports in Europe, with direct connections to and from 65 international destinations.

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Conference facilities: High quality conference facilities with the latest technology equipment and exceptional space facilities to fulfil all kinds of requirements.

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athens

Athens Info Accommodation

l Number of 5-star hotels: 29 hotels | Total rooms: 6,350 rooms l Number of 4-star hotels: 64 hotels | Total rooms: 6,915 rooms l Number of 3-star hotels: 87 hotels | Total rooms: 5,850 rooms

Conference Facilities

Major Olympic venues to host your event, with an overall conference and exhibition space of 95,000m2 and more than 75000 seats to meet the requirements of the most demanding of events.

social and environmental responsibility schemes are in place to encourage organisers to choose Athens as the host city for their event.

Established associations and international corporations are increasingly locating their events in this inspirational City of The Gods for many reasons. With more than 12,000 fiveand four-star hotel rooms available in Athens itself (and more than 32,000 in the wider Attica Region), the accommodation options for event organisers are staggering. From contemporary boutique hotels to distinguished neoclassical venues, the variety of outstanding business, luxury, traditional and affordable hotels with views of the Acropolis ensures a MICE solution for every corporate budget.

Athens is also an ideal destination for MICE visitors who want to stay beyond the corporate event and explore the breathtaking Aegean Islands, less than an hour from the capital.

When the conferences have closed and the meetings adjourned, delegates can season their business with pleasure and relax on one of the many beautiful islands – an angle that many event organisers use in their marketing material to ensure exceedingly high response rates.

And with 330 days of annual sunshine, Athens is perfect for post-event sightseeing and scheduled activities.

For example, regular cruises are available to tour the islands off the coast of the Argosaronic Gulf – an ideal one-day getaway for those who want to extend their stay. The islands of Aigina,

Hydra, Poros and Spetses offer beautifully manicured resorts, villas and refurbished neoclassical hotel facilities, and connections between these idyllic locations are easy.

On the other hand, history enthusiasts can take a dramatic coastline road trip to the southern most tip of Attica and visit the ancient temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio. Built during the Golden Age of Pericles in the 5th century BC, the sanctuary still holds 15 of its 34 original Doric columns.

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Hotels: Athens has a wide choice of 5-star, four-star and three-star hotels with excellent services and locations to suit any requirement.

Transfers: Athens International Airport, Eleftherios Venizelos, is only 35 minutes from the heart of the city. An extensive network of buses, trams, trolleys and metro trains can easily take visitors anywhere in the city or the coast, which is only 15 minutes away from the city centre. The city centre is within easy and safe walking distance. The Athens metro is one of the finest in Europe and several metro stations are actual museums, presenting exhibitions from both the antique era as well as contemporary Greek art.

Easily accessible Home to the award-winning Athens International Airport – Eleftherios Venizelos – Athens is easily and directly accessible for MICE visitors from most international destinations. Since it became operational 10 years ago, the airport has received numerous accolades for its efficiency, design, customer service and commitment to excellence.

In June 2003, passengers voted it the Best Airport Worldwide in its category, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Even more impressive, in 2004 – the year that Athens hosted the Olympic Games – the airport’s ranking rose to second best in the world according to AETRA, the world’s leading Airport Benchmarking program.

Having won the prestigious title of Best Airport in Europe 2011, Eleftherios Venizelos is now internationally recognised as a world-leader in overall

Activities: As the largest archaeological park in Europe, Athens offers a wide variety of relaxing leisure activities, including great shopping, first-rate restaurants with the finest Greek and international cuisine, vibrant cultural life, the world-famous Athenian night-life, and the new Acropolis Museum, right on the footsteps of the sacred rock.

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Post- and Pre-Event Activities: Due to its great location, Athens offers MICE visitors the chance to visit some of the world’s bestknown ancient and historical sites, including Poseidon’s Temple in Cape Sounion, ancient Delphi and Mycenae, as well as some of the most immaculate islands in Greece.

passenger satisfaction, handling more than 200,000 flights each year and servicing more than 65 global destinations daily.

Positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Africa and the Middle East, Athens is easily accessible from most international points of departure, and several flights from major airport hubs in London, Berlin, Paris, New York, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Zurich, Rome, Milan, Larnaca and Dubai arrive each day.

Furthermore, the roads, rail services and transport networks in the capital city are among the most modern and environmentally friendly in the world. With Olympic-class designs and stateof-the-art improvements to the infrastructure, the superb airports, highways, metro system, buses, trams and catamarans ensure that visitors can get to their destination swiftly and safely. With coach, train and boat services connecting Athens with the rest of this beautiful country, Athens offers an all-encompassing solution for every event planner.

Academic, political, medical and international governmental bodies, in particular, are choosing to host their events in the historic centre of Athens –the birthplace of democracy, science and Western civilization. This inspired combination of first-rate hotel and conferencing facilities with matchless sightseeing, leisure and cultural opportunities guarantees a classic MICE experience in the City of Learning. l

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Features: Athenians are hospitable and friendly and most people speak at least one language, usually English. Athens is a safe city, with a vibrant and sleepless 24-hour culture.

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Value for Money: As an upcoming conference destination, Athens offers a high-quality MICE destination with affordable prices.

Tip: The Athens Convention Bureau works professionally with local partners, providers and event planners to meet all requirements and ensure that all events are perfectly delivered.

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croatia

theMICEreport

Awards 2012 Best MICE City: South East Europe

Z a g reb

Combining the very best of Eastern and Western Europe, Zagreb offers a cultural cornucopia for business visitors and event organisers. Neil Walden explores the history, landscape and MICE opportunities in the captivating capital of Croatia.

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ith a colourful history that stretches back to the 11th century, Zagreb – the capital of the Republic of Croatia – is one of Europe’s oldest cities and yet one of its youngest metropolises. With a population of almost one million, this vibrant city is the administrative, economic, diplomatic, scientific and cultural capital of the country.

Known by locals as ‘the City of a Million Hearts’, Zagreb has always captivated the attention of visitors.

Lately, this interest has been growing faster than ever due to Croatia’s upcoming accession to the European Union. Its location in the centre of the continent makes it easily accessible from all parts of Europe. Whether travelling by road, air or the convenient EuroCity rail, Croatia and Zagreb are always geographically close, being just a one-hour flight from Vienna, one and

half hours from Frankfurt, and two hours from London. Furthermore, the Zagreb International Airport is only 16 km from the city centre.

After more than 900 years, the rhythm of this picturesque location is still much the same. Behind the well-preserved medieval walls of the romantic Upper Town, the daily hustle and bustle of city life proceeds as it has for almost a millennium. The impressive streets of the Lower Town, on the other hand, possess the unmistakable grandeur of the AustroHungarian era.

Its ability to continually reinvent itself after so many years keeps Zagreb refreshingly youthful.

Inhabitants and visitors alike enjoy the city’s 20 theatres and approximately 50 museums, galleries and private art collections. Even the streets, squares and city parks are transformed into temporary museums and stages, which is why many events and exhibitions take place

croatia

Zagreb Highlights Attractions For some, the most memorable feature of Zagreb will be the Cathedral, for others it will be the central Ban Josip Jelacic Square, or even Zagreb’s Louvre - the Mimara Museum. Some will remember the trip they took on Zagreb’s funicular railway, which has linked the Upper and Lower Town for over a hundred years. The old and new districts are also connected on the other side of town by the beautifully mediaeval Kamenita Vrata (‘stone gate’).

The Croatian Parliament and the Government of the Republic of Croatia are located at the nearby St Mark’s Square, named after the elegant 13th century St Mark’s Church, which is renowned for its colourful roof representing the historical coats of arms of Zagreb and Croatia. The famous Lotršcak Tower, also built in the 13th century, is the best-preserved object of the earlier Old Town fortifications, and a cannon fired from this tower marks noontime every day.

Only a couple of minutes walk away is Dolac, one of Europe’s most lively outdoor markets. Famed for its cheerful red parasols, this vibrant location is a must-see for all visitors, with its delicious scents and colourful diversity of fresh picked fruits, vegetables, meat and mouth-watering dairy products.

Among Zagreb’s more unusual visitor destinations is Mirogoj, the city’s oldest cemetery. Dating from 1876, Mirogoj contains the graves of Croats who have been preeminent in politics and culture. Located within monumental neo-Renaissance arcades, the stunning headstones, memorials and cenotaphs have been created by internationally celebrated artists, and make this unique location a popular attraction.

outdoors between the spring and the autumn.

As a capital of culture, sports and science, Zagreb is home to a number of world-famous artists, athletes and scientists. The city also hosts many prestigious international festivals and events, such as the International Folklore Festival, World Festival of Animated Films, International Flower Show, the Zagreb Summer Open Air Festival, the Hot Air Balloon Festival, and many more. An absolute treat for world visitors, these many festivals enhance Zagreb’s special atmosphere.

Rich with the cultural and architectural influences of Central Europe, this stunning city is filled with Gothic churches, Baroque palaces, Art Deco buildings and beautiful city parks. However, Zagreb is also famous for its numerous downtown outdoor cafes, where the true pulse of the city captivates visitors. The laidback, Mediterranean way of life gives Croatia’s

Putting business in its place Zagreb is compact enough for business visitors to comfortably walk between hotels, theatres, museums and even the business district. The most important cultural attractions and hotels, many of which are members of international hotel chains, are conveniently located in the heart of the city – all within a 15-minute walk.

Zagreb is perfect for business events; the city houses a rich variety of fully equipped venues for both small meetings and large congresses, and there are many exciting possibilities for hosting a memorable incentive or a fascinating event.

With a rich assortment of high-class business hotels, conference halls in the historic heart of the city, numerous museums and galleries and top-quality PCOs and DMCs, Zagreb is an outstanding business destination that will be remembered long after the event.

Unique Old Venues Exclusive venues in the city’s Upper and Lower Towns hold the past in readiness for the present. Professionally organised, discreetly stage-managed and exquisitely delivered, business events in Zagreb are enhanced by the variety of unique locations available.

The National House Illyrian Hall Built in 1838, Illyrian Hall has the most beautiful Classicist interior in Zagreb. It is one of the most important buildings in recent Croatian political and cultural history.

The Golden Hall An old Upper Town palace houses the magnificent Neo-Baroque Golden Hall, complete with frescoes and sculptures by some of Croatia’s finest craftsmen.

The Croatian National Theatre Usually the setting for dramas, ballets and operas, the Croatian National Theatre offers a distinguished atmosphere and excellent catering for top-quality conventions, presentations and receptions.

Klovicevi Dvori Gallery Located in a stunning 17th century building, the Kloviæevi Dvori Gallery and its very eloquent atrium are the perfect place for conducting meetings, receptions and banquets.

Zagreb City Museum Located in the Upper Town, Zagreb’s City Museum offers a historical edge to modern business events. Displaying more than 75,000 cultural and artistic artefacts, the museum is situated within the renovated complex of the former monastery of St. Clare, built in 1650.

The Croatian State Archives Built in 1913, the State Archives is one of the most beautiful secessionist buildings in Croatia.

The interior is filled with astounding works of art, and it is ideal for business meetings and world-class events, where the beauty of the place itself will be an additional tool for success. theMICEreport l 107

croatia

Zagreb Highlights Arts and Crafts Museum Founded in 1880 as one of the first institutions of its kind in Europe, the Arts and Crafts Museum is a representative palace built in the German Renaissance style. The museum and its open terraces are an ideal place for organising symposiums, seminars, concerts and other events.

Mimara Museum The Mimara Museum and Art Gallery houses a magnificent art collection donated by Ante T. Mimara. It hosts lectures, concerts, conferences, gala dinners and receptions.

Halls As a modern European capital, Zagreb offers an impressive choice of multipurpose facilities for larger conventions and congresses, such as Hypo Expo XXI, Vatroslav Lisinski Concert and Congress Hall, and the Zagreb Fair Congress Centre. In addition, two recently opened grand multifunctional venues have enhanced the options: the Museum for Contemporary Art and the Zagreb Arena hall, both of which are suited for large exhibitions, conferences, shows and sporting events.

The Medvedgrad Fortress Zagreb is situated on the southern slopes of the Medvednica Mountain, which is covered with verdant forest. Visitors are able to climb to its highest mountain peak, Sljeme (1033 metres), using the pedestrian walkway that begins in the city’s central square. The western mountainside of Medvednica covers 228 km and is a picturesque wonderland. Visitors can find hotel accommodation, mountain paths and an alpine centre that offers refreshments and overnight stays. Amongst its many natural features, Medvednica hosts one of the largest caves in Croatia, Veternica, which holds many tunnels and is a home to numerous colonies of bats.

There is a medieval fortified town on Medvednica, Medvedgrad, which is about a 30-minute drive from the centre of Zagreb.

Built in 1250, this town is one of the largest and most impressive hilltop fortresses in Croatia.

The fortress itself is uniquely impressive and commands breathtaking views of the city of Zagreb below.

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Here, visitors can participate in a spectacular re-enactment of a medieval battle with swords, bows and arrows. As part of a unique incentive trip, visitors can enjoy the authentic experience of becoming medieval knights for a day, defending the grand walls of Medvedgrad, rattling weapons, quarrelling with knights, or perfecting their archery skills.

During the winter months, the Medvednica Mountain is a popular ski and sleigh resort where ski events are organised. It was here that the most famous Croatian skiers of all time and the Olympic winners Janica and Ivica Kostelic trained to become world champions. It is also the location of the world-famous VIP Snow Queen Trophy Ski Cup.

“The unique hospitality of its famously openhearted inhabitants gives the city a special charm”

The Banks of the River Sava A great addition to modern Zagreb is Jarun, the so-called ‘Zagreb’s sea’ – a large recreational and sports centre that is situated on the left bank of the River Sava, close to the metropolis. Ideal for swimming, the two lakes and five islets are interconnected by modern bridges and pebble beaches. Jarun also provides several kilometres of winding paths, cycling trails, green meadows, shady groves and the impressive 2,250-metrelong regatta lane upon which numerous international and world championships are organised.

Throughout the year, Jarun attracts many visitors, but it is liveliest during the summer months when – due to the impeccable weather – a stage is set up to host a variety of theatre performances, open-air concerts, famous DJs, fashion shows, firework shows and other events.

The Golf and Country Club is also located along the River Sava, which serves as a popular meeting place for golfers and their colleagues.

Barely 40 minutes away from Zagreb by road, the picturesque landscape of rolling green hills is dotted with churches, tales and legends, wine trails as well as many impressive medieval castles. The past has been well preserved in the village of Kumrovec, the birthplace of former Yugoslav president Tito, where visitors can make their own gingerbread hearts, prepare some typical dishes of the region, learn a local dance or simply learn about how locals lived in the past.

A two-hour drive away from Zagreb is the Plitvice Lakes National Park – an area of outstanding natural beauty, consisting of 16 flawless lakes and more than 90 waterfalls.

Protected by UNESCO, this national park invites visitors to stroll among the forests, climb the slopes or enjoy a boat ride across a lake. For those who want to explore the famously pristine coastline of Croatia, visitors either reach Opatija in two hours time by road or take a 50-minute flight to the Pearl of Adriatic – Dubrovnik.

capital the atmosphere of Europe’s biggest open-air café, while the unique hospitality of its famously open-hearted inhabitants gives the city a special charm.

To be in a vibrant city centre while enjoying nature and expansive greenery at the same time – all this is possible in Zagreb. Whichever road is taken, Zagreb delights with its beautiful pleasure gardens, as the city boasts a long tradition of cultivating public parks and lush open spaces.

Zagreb is also a gastronomic gateway to a stupendous variety of delicious cuisines. A vast array of sophisticated seafood, vegetarian and classical restaurants vie with snack-bars and family eateries to cater for every taste. For a local speciality, the Zagrebacki Odrezak comes highly recommended; it is veal cutlet filled with ham and cheese and then fried. Alternatively, visitors can try turkey with Mlinci (thinly-rolled pastry baked at high temperature and then boiled), or the original Zagorski Strukli – a continental speciality made with local pastry and cottage cheese.

Zagreb has many alluring aspects: professional, yet relaxed; ultramodern, yet dazzling with its thousand-year history; culturally rich, urbane and adventurous. In short, Zagreb is the city that simply has to be discovered and rediscovered time and time again. With exceptionally well-preserved natural surroundings, Zagreb invites visitors to explore the abundant pleasures of this stunning region: the castles, romantic legends, vineyards, spas, local gastronomic delicacies and traditional hospitality. l

croatia airlines

croatia airlines

theMICEreport

Awards 2012 Best Airline Southern Europe

Cr o a t i a A i r l i n e s

Voted the Best Airline in Southern Europe in The MICE Report Awards 2012, Croatia Airlines has been flying the flag of the ‘Land of a Thousand Islands’ for more than 20 years. Ed Carpenter takes off with the airline that is much more than just a comfortable flight.

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ith a pristine coastline of coves, inlets and sandy strands that stretch for 1778km, Croatia is known as the land of a thousand islands and offers one of the world’s most beautiful destinations for international meetings and conferences. For those planning a business trip to this tranquil, yet sophisticated and modern Adriatic nation, one of the most comfortable ways to arrive would be

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with the award-winning aircraft of the flag carrier – Croatia Airlines.

A middle-sized European airline in constant growth, Croatia Airlines has connected Croatian cities with the most important European metropolises for more than 20 years. Providing excellent services on short and mid-range flights in both Economy and Business Class, the airline’s most represented markets are Germany, the UK, Austria, Switzerland and France, in addition to flights within Croatia.

Having adjusted its business to the growing demands of the international MICE market, Croatia Airlines provides a quality service that is based on safety, punctuality, knowing the market and working with established and well-known partner organisations. The company’s business model has been enormously effective, and now this well-respected airline has received the celebrated accolade of Best Airline in Southern Europe in The MICE Report Awards 2012.

A member of Star Alliance and a participant of Miles & More, the greatest frequent flyer programme in Europe, the modern fleet of Croatia Airlines consists of 13 aircraft, including eight Airbuses. Special attention is given to maintenance to ensure that Croatia Airline’s safety standards are among the highest in the industry. Free meals and beverages are served during flights, and the in-flight services depend on the type and times of the flight. Business Class passengers are

also provided with a selection of Croatian and international newspapers.

The airline’s in-flight magazine, Croatia, is provided for all passengers, and this glossy publication offers an exciting introduction to the events, cultural heritage, historical sites and fascinating features about the popular destinations served by Croatia Airlines.

Furthermore, the airline’s fleet of Airbus aircraft are fully equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual systems that offer informative features and films.

Incredibly helpful staff at Croatia Airline’s offices are able to assist MICE travellers with all travel-related queries, while the company’s contact centre telephone personnel are always ready to assist. The constantly upgraded FlyOnLine service offers travellers the option of buying tickets online, and this service offers ticket reservation facilities in eight languages, including Croatian, English, German, French, Dutch, Spanish, Russian and Italian.

Furthermore, the website offers the opportunities of web check-ins, hotel accommodation and transfer reservations, and travellers can also check the status of their flights and order dutyfree products online that can be collected later when they board their flight.

As an extraordinary destination in the heart of Europe, rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, Croatia offers superb opportunities for sophisticated meetings, conferences and incentives. Having been recognised as the Best Airline in Southern Europe in this year’s MICE Report Awards, Croatia Airlines provides MICE organisers with an award-winning carrier to this stunning destination. l

For further information, visit www.croatiaairlines.com

Photos © Joe Hoelzl, LifestyleEvents, Markus Mitterer

Kitzbühel

With first-rate meetings facilities, classical Tyrolean class and 365 days of sports, nature and sophisticated lifestyle, the K3 KitzKongress centre is an undoubted conference king of the Alps. Cliff James investigates the unique ambience of the centre crowned Best MediumSized Conference Centre (Austria) in The MICE Report Awards 2012.

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nternationally renowned as one of the finest and most stylish winter sports resorts in the world, the town and wider district of Kitzbühel attracts a jet stream of celebrities and highend tourists to its highly prized slopes every year. Home to the annual World Cup ski races, including the region’s most significant downhill race on the challenging Streif slope, Kitzbühel is not just a paradise for ski enthusiasts, but also an enchanting mediaeval town with gothic churches and quaint cobbled streets that delight visitors from around the globe.

Crowning this breathtaking destination, the K3Kongress Centre is the ideal setting for high calibre conferences and world-class events in the midst of the Kitzbühel Alps, offering a professional all-round service, 1,759 square

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metres of immaculate space and 10 fully equipped event rooms. The K3 KitzKongress combines Alpine transparency and contemporary elegance with the warmth of traditional Tyrolese architecture.

Having opened its doors in 2010, the centre’s bright meeting halls and state-of-theart electronic technology provides a matchless opportunity for top-quality presentations in a truly unique setting. Awarded the coveted prize for Best Medium-Sized Conference Centre (Austria) in The MICE Report Awards 2012, the superiority of K3 KitzKongress’s high-end amenities, stunning location and awe-inspiring scenery has been resoundingly recognised.

A sophisticated resort As an attractive destination for conference attendees and incentive visitors, Kitzbühel offers it all. Founded in the 12th century, the charming destination offers visitors the opportunity to explore an unblemished mediaeval town that, nonetheless, possesses all the comforts and amenities of a sophisticated resort. The newly built tri-cable system, for example, is the cable car with the highest elevation above ground in the world (400 metres) and provides a direct route to the world-famous ski slopes. Visitors can explore the High Gothic 14th century church of St Catherine, or admire the frescos of Max Weiler, or the masterworks of Tyrolean artist Alfons Walde in the recently renovated Museum Kitzbühel, before relaxing in one of the many sophisticated restaurants and cafes in the picturesque cobbled streets.

A region of inspirational mountain landscapes, Kitzbühel marks the spot where winter sports and culture merge. Sports enthusiasts who grow

tired of the 170 kilometres of available ski slopes can instead explore the 800 kilometres of mountain bike paths, 1,000 kilometres of hiking trails, or the numerous tennis courts, golf courses and swimming pools that Kitzbühel offers.

With such an abundance of leisure and social programmes on hand, the KitzKongress is the obvious choice for event planners who want to ensure their delegates never experience a dull moment. At the core of the building is the outstanding Palladium Room (543 square metres), which can be divided into smaller rooms and includes an adjustable submersible stage and capacity for 450 to 800 guests. There are, in addition, six other light-flooded congress and conference halls available, ranging from 44 to 216 square metres, all with superb lighting and sound technology, free wireless LAN, and further four break-out meeting rooms.

The centre is also able to support event organisers with top quality, creative ideas, full service and a unique ambience in an exceptional location. The sport city in the heart of the Alps is also much easier to reach than one might imagine, due to its position within the airport triangle of Munich, Salzburg and Innsbruck. With its sublime synergy of old and new, traditional and modern, first-rate local sports facilities and high-end amenities, the K3 KitzKongress has well deserved its award in The MICE Report Awards 2012. l

Kitzbühel Tourismus Hinterstadt 18 6370 Kitzbühel l T +43 5356 66660 l info@kitzbuehel.com l www.kitzbuehel.com

Guaranteed summit meeting.

YOUR CONFERENCE VENUE IN THE HEART OF KITZBÜHEL -

1,759 sqm of congress & conference space Dividable ‘Palladium’ function hall (363-543 sqm), 500 people (parliamentary/gala), 750 people (cinema) With vehicle access 6 additional meeting rooms (44 - 117 sqm) 4 breakout rooms (22 - 63 sqm) Underground parking, free wireless, revitalised Grander water

Curious?

Then e-mail us: kitzbuehel@kitzkongress.at or simply call: +43 (0) 699 - 15 35 63 00 We look forward to welcoming you.

www.kitzkongress.at

budapest

F Combining a uniquely uplifting cultural experience with state-of-the-art conference facilities and a highly developed infrastructure, Budapest is a truly superlative MICE destination for every occasion.

Cliff James explores the unparalleled cuisine, culture, hospitality and scenic beauty of Budapest – the Pearl of the Danube.

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ormed from the fertile marriage of opposites – a union of the ancient Roman site of Buda on the west bank of the River Danube and ultramodern Pest on the east bank – Hungary’s vibrant capital city produces a bountiful brood of cultural attractions for business travellers. From the exquisite 13th century church of St Matthias, the Royal Palace and the Museum of Fine Arts, to the extensive UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Buda Castle quarter and the picturesque banks of the Danube, Budapest offers a copious platter of cultural enticements for MICE visitors to savour.

Unique and delectable, the world-famous Hungarian cuisine is served at a diverse range of delicious restaurants and eateries throughout Budapest – a relaxed café culture for which this city is celebrated. Business visitors can

enjoy a selection of traditional or international menus at the Gerbeaud Café, the Százéves, Biarritz, Kárpátia or the legendary Mátyás Pince restaurants. Alternatively, music aficionados will be spoiled for the choice by the variety of live contemporary and classical performances on offer, including world-class opera, fiery local gypsy troupes, first-rate jazz bands and traditional folk musicians, all of which are available in Budapest’s countless concert halls and music clubs.

Recognised as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Budapest offers a vast variety of historical sites, including more than 220 museums, for incentive visitors and conference delegates to explore at leisure.

Saint Stephen’s Basilica, for example, houses the relic of the Holy Right Hand of Hungary’s founder, King Saint Stephen. The spectacular neo-Gothic Parliament building is open to the public and hosts the priceless Hungarian Crown Jewels, while extensive Roman remains are an unmissable attraction at the Aquincum Museum.

But Budapest excels at combining contrasts, and the historical delights of this incredible city are matched by contemporary innovation.

As a burgeoning financial hub, Budapest ranks 3rd out of 65 cities on MasterCard’s Emerging Markets Index, and Hungary is now a leading light in the international leisure and entertainment industry, offering both originality and quality. Conveniently located at the centre of Europe and well-served by affordable transport links, this fascinating country presents a plethora of attractions: bold and intricate architecture, beautiful and varied scenery, and colourful cultural heritage of music, dance and captivating art.

As a location for world-class events and conferences, a range of comfortable, wellpriced and superbly equipped hotels have been developed in Hungary’s alluring capital and the surrounding countryside to cater for groups, business meetings, international conferences and incentive trips. Furthermore, there is an abundance of professional event organisations on hand that specialise in managing entertainment schedules, leisure activities and arranging the perfect venue. Most of all, MICE visitors are assured of a warm welcome in the heart of Europe.

Situated in the Carpathian Basin, Budapest is easily accessible from all European destinations and is served by Liszt Ferenc International Airport, just 16km south-east of the city centre. The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1, which services low-cost airlines, and Terminal 2 – which is divided between Terminal 2A, 2B and the brand new terminal SkyCourt that opened in March. Convenient for all business visitors, Liszt Ferenc International Airport is just a short flight away from all European capitals.

Other international airports in Hungary include Fly Balaton Airport, which receives scheduled and charter flights and is well-located in Sármellék on the western shores of Lake Balaton – the largest lake in central Europe. As a relaxing destination, the area around Lake Balaton is Hungary’s most popular recreational region and boasts many natural spa resorts and reviving springs in what is the world’s largest geothermal water cave system. Alternatively, MICE travellers can arrive at Debrecen Airport, which is situated just 2.5km from the centre of the vibrant commercial and economic city of Debrecen in the east of the country.

Meeting delegates and incentive travellers who arrive in Hungary by train are well-served by an impressive rail network that provides more than 30 direct trains a day between Budapest and no fewer than 25 major European cities.

Trains to Vienna run every three hours, for example, and there is also an efficient network of intercity trains linking Budapest with all the main Hungarian cities. Similarly, visitors who travel by coach are able to enjoy a proficient coach service that operates across the entire country, with international services terminating and departing from the comfortable and wellequipped Népliget Coach Station.

For MICE visitors who want to enjoy an unforgettable and definitive Danube experience while making the most of Hungary’s spectacular scenery, a hydrofoil river service operates throughout the summer months (May to October), linking the heart of Budapest with Vienna and Bratislava. International boat landing stages are situated along the River Danube between the stunning Chain Bridge and the Liberty Bridge.

Citizens of EU- and EEA-member states can

enter Hungary without a visa, as can nationals from other countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Israel, Japan and the United States.

Furthermore, English and German are widely spoken throughout the country, and all major credit, debit and charge cards can be used to make purchases in hotels, restaurants and shops, or to withdraw local currency from banks and ATMs. As undoubtedly one of the most reasonably priced destinations in the whole of Europe, Budapest presents exceptional value for MICE visitors – a fact that will come in handy when exploring the city’s assortment of high-class shops that sell everything from traditional embroideries, ceramics, and hand-painted Herend and Zsolnai porcelain, to world-famous brandies and wines. And with some of Central Europe’s most developed conferencing and business hotel facilities within a short distance of the city centre, Budapest truly presents an incomparable experience for every kind of MICE event. l theMICEreport l 115

hungary

InterContinental Budapest theMICEreport

Awards 2012 Best Luxury Business Hotel in Hungary

Continenta l Budapest Inter

With the extensively renovated conference floor now open for business, the InterContinental Budapest Hotel is an ideal location for large meetings, banquets, receptions and international events – and is now the proud recipient of The MICE Report’s Best Luxury Business Hotel in Hungary Award 2012. Cliff James talks to the InterContinental Budapest’s General Manager, Mathieu van Alphen, about this award-winning venue in the most beautiful city in Central Europe.

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ising majestically from the banks of the River Danube, Budapest has been justifiably described as the most beautiful city in central Europe. Renowned for its pristine collection of Ottoman, baroque, neoclassical and art nouveau architecture, the capital city of Hungary is a delightful destination for both business and leisure visitors. It has also been ranked by Forbes as the seventh most idyllic place to live in Europe, and by UcityGuides as the ninth most beautiful city in world.

With yellow trams rattling down grand boulevards, authentic cobblestone streets, decorative facades that witnessed past revolutions, grandiose turn-of-the-century apartment blocks and Turkish bathhouses, Budapest is a city richly infused with memories and history.

Overlooking the stunningly illuminated 116 l theMICEreport

Széchenyi Chain Bridge and Royal Castle, the InterContinental Budapest Hotel is perfectly placed for business visitors to experience the essence of this captivating city.

Just a few minutes away from the chic shopping districts around Andrassy Avenue and Váci Utca and the historic sites of St Stephen’s Basilica, the Opera House and the Szechenyi Thermal Bath, the InterContinental Budapest offers spectacular views of the city’s famous sites.

With the complete renovation of the entire conference and events floor, including new banquet furniture, carpeting, lighting, wall coverings and overall décor, the InterContinental Budapest has been extensively refurbished with a breathtakingly sophisticated, state-of-the-art look and feel. The General Manager of the hotel, Mathieu van Alphen, explains that the conceptual design of this renovation was inspired by the flawless interior design of the guest rooms and

Club Lounge, which had been refreshed in 2009.

“The colour scheme is gentle and elegant and exudes the sense of peace and comfort that is characteristic of the InterContinental brand, but with a touch of Hungarian influence,” says Mathieu. “Furthermore, LED lights have been added to the lighting plan of the conference floor, so they can now be adjusted to subtly switch the lighting colours in different tones to set the right atmosphere for every event. Colours, forms and accessories are in perfect harmony.

What is our idea of decoration? Creating an impeccable atmosphere.”

The legendary InterContinental Budapest has hosted many of the city’s largest and most prominent events, and the venue’s superior facilities are a premier choice for meeting initiatives of all types. Unique in their size and tradition, the hotel’s meeting spaces stretch over 1,869 m2 (20,117 ft2) and can be tailored to meet most requirements.

Superb views All the meeting rooms in the newly renovated conference area are situated on the first floor and feature natural lighting and superb views.

Fully equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology, the conference floor consists of 12 rooms and a stunningly decorated foyer that is suitable for congresses, product presentations, dinners and parties for up to 850 guests.

Mathieu van Alphen explains that the smaller rooms are provided with screens, ideal for video conferencing and meetings as well as receptions and executive gatherings. The innovative 17-inch door screens can be entirely customised with logos, presentations and short videos. With its

hungary

“We strive to capture a genuine sense of place and shared experience to inspire meetings that truly engage delegates and gets results.” view over the Royal Castle and Chain Bridge, the InterContinental Budapest is an ideal location for large congresses as well as banquet dinners, cocktail receptions or a glittering gala event at the end of a successful conference.

“We strive to capture a genuine sense of place and shared experience to inspire meetings that truly engage delegates and gets results,” says Mathieu. “Our success is founded on delivering a seamless service in environments that inspire delegates to connect with their surroundings and each other. Whatever the event, the InterContinental Meetings team knows what it takes to make life easier for the planner and create a memorable and highly rewarding occasion.

“Our Meetings Team can also offer a range of team-building experiences that can be based onsite or at beautiful and historical locations in the local area. These are an original way to motivate delegates while giving them a chance to engage with their destination.”

With a specific conference and events entrance, a freight elevator and dedicated banqueting kitchen, Mathieu says that spectacular events can also be hosted in the Grand Ballroom. For professional support for all meetings and presentations, the hotel also contains a professional Business Centre and an onsite audio-visual studio. Furthermore, the hotel has its own extensive underground parking facilities for visitors.

For business and incentive guests lucky enough to stay at the InterContinental Budapest, there are 402 luxurious and beautifully appointed guestrooms, including 18 suites and 184 superior rooms with stunning views of the River Danube.

“The designs and materials for the guestrooms have been carefully selected to create an opulent yet elegant atmosphere, allowing guests to completely relax and enjoy the convenience of 24-hour room service,” Mathieu explains. “They can also access the Instant Service Centre, WiFi, turndown and laundry services. Our concierge team is also more than happy to share its insider knowledge about the hidden secrets of Budapest with guests, ensuring visitors return to their homes with truly authentic and enriching experiences.”

Relaxing environment Business and incentive visitors can also enjoy the relaxing environment of the Club InterContinental, which includes an exclusive lounge and range of VIP services. “With memorable views of the everchanging Budapest skyline, Club InterContinental is designed for travellers who appreciate personalised recognition and distinctive amenities,” says Mathieu.

“In addition, guests can indulge in a rich variety of body, facial and beauty services at the SPA InterContinental. With 482 square metres of state-of-the-art treatment rooms, including a VIP spa suite for couples, a hightech fitness centre, relaxation area, resistance swimming pool and resting beds, our team of fully trained therapists are on hand to rejuvenate the body and spirits of all our guests. Our therapists even use traditional Hungarian products that reflect the world-famous bathing culture of Hungary.”

For mouth-watering cuisine, the InterContinental Budapest is the perfect place to enjoy truly authentic Hungarian dishes in

the unobtrusively elegant Corso Restaurant, Bar and Terrace. “Take a culinary journey through the delicious Hungarian masterpieces that have been given an extra twist by our gourmet chefs,” says Mathieu. “It is a perfect place to socialise with friends, unwind after a productive day of business meetings, or simply relax and watch the world go by in unforgettable surroundings.”

With such distinguished surroundings, exceptional facilities and unsurpassed service, the InterContinental Budapest has received The MICE Report’s coveted Best Luxury Business Hotel in Hungary Award 2012. Easily accessible from Budapest International Airport – which is a mere 16 miles (25 km) away – the InterContinental Budapest offers business and incentive visitors a world-class experience in the heart of the most picturesque destination in central Europe. l theMICEreport l 117

oslo

Global Oslo

The blue, the green, and the capital in between

Consistently ranking first place in the Quality of Life index of world cities, Oslo offers so much more than the world’s cleanest streets and the Nobel Peace Prize.

Situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, surrounded by fjords, forests and Olympic-class skiing pistes, the Norwegian capital is a natural destination for events of an altogether higher calibre. he beautifully picturesque city of Oslo is surrounded by ancient forest ridges at the head of the Oslo Fjord, and this very location gives the city unexpected and unsurpassable qualities for a national capital. In both summer and winter, the surrounding countryside provides sports and recreational opportunities for the city’s inhabitants and visitors. Oslo is one of the few world capitals that can offer subway services to the forest, with lakes and hiking trails all within city limits.

Norway’s capital city has a population of only 600,000, which is relatively low compared to most European capitals. Paradoxically, it is also one of the largest in terms of area and covers more than 450 square kilometres – most of which comprises forests and arable land.

Oslo is a city full of contrasts. Its natural beauty, combined with all the facilities of a modern metropolis, adds to the charm of a city often called, “the world’s biggest village”. Modern districts of this must-see capital include the bustling Aker Brygge area, a rehabilitated old shipyard area with Mediterraneanstyle shops, restaurants and cafés.

Oslo’s beautiful natural surroundings, its varied architecture, and its multinational inhabitants contribute to the city’s unique and progressive atmosphere.

The climate is actually better than its northern latitude might suggest, and this is due to the Gulf Stream that bears warm 118 l theMICEreport

air from the Gulf of Mexico across the Atlantic Ocean and along the coast of Norway. During the summer months, the sun stays above the horizon for 19 hours each day.

For skiing enthusiasts, the Holmenkollen ski jump – which overlooks the city – features the world’s oldest ski museum and one of the best panoramic views over Oslo. The spectacular new ski jump was ready for the World Nordic Ski Championships in 2011, and has prompted many to regard Oslo as: “the World’s Winter Capital”.

However, this stunning capital is equally a summertime city that offers all the activities and pleasures associated with the warmer seasons.

The quantity of activities on the fjord and in the city’s parks reveals how Oslo’s citizens exploit

the summer to the utmost. The fjord is a great outdoor venue in the summer with exciting activities on the many islands as well as in the water. An extensive and world-class yacht charter industry ferries visitors to countless beauty spots along the vast and scenic fjord. In the summer, it truly feels that the sun never sets.

As a high-tech, well-equipped conference city, Oslo’s meeting facilities can cater for up to 8000 delegates. There are around 60 superior hotels that offer a total of 11,000 rooms and more than 18,000 beds. In the city’s vicinity, another 15 hotels offer approximately 2,500 additional rooms.

The compact and immaculate city centre offers the majority of hotels, meeting facilities and tourist attractions – all of which are within easy walking distance of each other – which makes Oslo a practical venue for conferences and other first-class events. The city already hosts a variety of international meetings for up to 6,500 delegates in various fields, including the art, culture, science, medicine, economics and political worlds.

The Norwegian hotel industry does not have a star classification system, but the hotels are each of an impressively high standard. Hotel rates in Oslo compare well with those in other major European capitals, and always included in the quoted hotel rates are VAT (8%) as well as a large Norwegian breakfast buffet with hot and cold dishes.

oslo

“In the summer, it truly feels that the sun never sets” As a leading global city, Oslo is very wellconnected and easily accessible to other European capitals. Thirty-seven airlines run daily non-stop flights from major cities in Europe to Oslo Airport, which is situated barely 50 kilometres from the city centre, and an express train links the airport to the city centre in just 19 minutes. Furthermore, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and United Airlines operate non-stop connections between Oslo and New York, while Norwegian flies from Dubai and Qatar Airways flies from Doha. Oslo can also be reached from all continents via Copenhagen (55 minutes), with departures for Oslo every hour.

City of Festivals Known as the ‘City of Festivals’, Oslo has a varied social and cultural life that attracts and appeals to a wide range of people. Safaris in the wilderness of Oslo or a fjord cruise on an old wooden sailing boat are some examples of the innumerable activities on offer. Similarly, visitors can learn more about Norwegian cultural heritage by visiting the city’s well-funded museums that feature works by world-famous Norwegian artists.

Among the internationally renowned museums in Oslo are the Munch Museum,

the Kon-Tiki Museum, the Polar ship Fram Museum, The Viking Ship Museum, the National Gallery, the Norwegian Folk Museum, and the unmissable Vigeland Sculpture Park and Museum.

As the home of cultural giants like Edvard Munch, Gustav Vigeland, Thor Heyerdahl and Henrik Ibsen, Oslo honours each of these great figures with their own dedicated museum. Furthermore, some of these museums are available for receptions and other exceptional events.

The Vigeland Sculpture Park covers an area of 80 acres and features 212 awe-inspiring sculptures that were all modelled in full size

by Gustav Vigeland, who also designed the architectural setting and the layout of the grounds. The park is a popular recreation area all year round and hosts many of the city’s cultural events.

Perhaps best known as ‘the City of Peace’, Oslo also famously hosts the annual Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. The beautiful new Nobel Peace Centre is a unique building that attracts millions of international visitors each year. It hosts a museum filled with fascinating and thought-provoking exhibitions on the great personalities of the 100-year history of the

Nobel Peace Prize. The centre is also a unique venue for small, prestigious events. Oslo’s new Opera House, which is shaped like an ice-berg emerging from the water, has become another of Oslo’s architectural icons, and is visited by around 2.5million people every year.

Open-minded, progressive and outgoing, Oslo has wholeheartedly embraced global and European trends, and offers something special for everyone. For urban souls, there are cultural attractions, nightclubs, cafés and trendy boutiques. Outdoor enthusiasts are likely to opt for a ride on a mountain bike, a round of golf, or a skiing adventure – either cross-country or downhill – within the vast expanse of forests that make up greater Oslo. For those who wish to go for a swim, there are outdoor swimming pools, as well as stunning beaches, all of which are accessible by ferries from the city centre.

First-time visitors to Oslo are often surprised by the wide range and variety of restaurants and entertainment options that the capital has to offer. Most of these attractions are located within such a limited area that they are within walking distance of each other, and within easy reach of the world-class hotels and the superlative events venues. As a truly global city, the ‘City of Peace’ never ceases to surprise. l theMICEreport l 119

Voksenåsen Culture and Conference Hotel The view from

the top of the world

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Towering over the incomparable landscape of the Oslofjord, just a few minutes from the picturesque Norwegian capital, Voksenåsen Culture and Conference Hotel has taken worldclass conferencing to spectacular new heights.

Cliff James explores the blue-sky thinking opportunities and first-class meeting facilities of the award-winning hotel at the top of the world.

ith breathtaking views over Oslo’s picturesque architecture and the vast woodlands and immaculate fjords that embrace it, the spectacular Voksenåsen Culture and Conference Hotel takes inspirational conferencing to a new level – and, in the teeth of tough competition, has been awarded the Best Conference Hotel in Scandinavia in The MICE Report Awards 2012. Almost touching the clouds, the conference hotel delivers a relaxed and restorative atmosphere, world-class standards of service and contemporary interior designs to inspire every business guest and incentive visitor.

Entirely distinctive in its location and magnificent views over horizons that seem to stretch forever, the Voksenåsen is only a 20 minute drive from the culturally vibrant centre of Oslo. Located more than 500 metres above sea level, the hotel provides close proximity to the untouched Oslomarka pine-covered forests surrounding Norway’s capital city. Neighbouring the internationally renowned Holmenkollen Ski Jump and the Oslo Vinterpark Ski Centre, Voksenåsen is ideally located for extraordinary events with an extra touch of magic.

Each of the hotel’s outstanding 85 rooms offers spectacular views over the picturesque cityscape and the beautiful Oslofjord, as do the restaurant and executive lounges. In the Dag Hammarskjöld pavilion, for example, guests experience contemporary comfort and luxury, while experiencing the sensation of the great outdoors. With gleaming whitewashed walls, oak floors, slate surfaces and timeless Scandinavian wood furniture, Voksenåsen is defined by spacious colours, tight lines and a meticulous use of materials. The result is a contemporary masterpiece at one with the spectacular landscape.

The history of the conference hotel is as unique as its design. Described as a piece of Sweden in Norway, Voksenåsen is Norway’s national gift to its Scandinavian neighbour in return for humanitarian assistance during and just after World War II. Designed by the visionary architect Hans-Kjell Larsen, Voksenåsen was

presented to Sweden in 1955 and, even today, the flags of both nations can be seen flying side-by-side over the conference centre.

In recognition of this harmonious history, the aim of the hotel is to create an environment that is characterised by tranquillity and inspiration, assisting guests and event organisers from all nations to successfully meet their aims. Whether the event is a conference, business meeting or product launch, visitors always remember Voksenåsen for genuine friendliness, superb hospitality and absolute flexibility.

Delicious fare The hotel’s first-class restaurant – Nils Holgersson – offers guests exceptional views over Oslo and a wide-ranging international menu of delicious fare. Throughout the year, the Voksenåsen’s master chefs serve everything from traditional Scandinavian dishes to exotic delicacies from across the globe. The restaurant is also able to devise menus in accordance with specific culinary themes, guaranteeing an unrivalled culinary experience for every type of occasion.

The conference facilities at Voksenåsen are equally inimitable, as the hotel was the

“Each of the hotel’s outstanding 85 rooms offers spectacular views over the picturesque cityscape and the beautiful Oslofjord”

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Voksenåsen Culture and Conference Hotel

first congress centre in Norway to be awarded five-stars for excellence.

Offering a wide selection of conference and breakout meeting rooms of various sizes, the professional onsite conference service is available to provide support, advice and technical assistance from early morning to late into the evening.

Each of the impressive conference rooms is named after a prominent Scandinavian celebrity. The Einar Gerhardsen Hall contains its own stage and grand piano and, like the Tage Erlander Hall, can host events for up to 180 participants. The Wasa suite, on the other hand, is the conference centre’s luxurious VIP room and offers its own saloon and patio with magnificent views over the Oslofjord. Similarly, Kungaterrassen – the Kings Terrace – provides a regal theme for grand events, and was opened in 1999 by the royal families of Norway and Sweden.

State-of-the-art For presentations that require the most impressive, state-of-the-art technology, the Dag Hammarskjöld Hall is fully equipped with every high-tech facility, whereas the Villa Utsikten provides a perfect location for intimate gatherings with panoramic view over the fjord and surrounding woodland. With such facilities, it is no surprise that the Voksenåsen has won this year’s MICE Report Award for Best Conference Hotel in Scandinavia.

Steeped in the Scandinavian heritage of post-war concord, humanitarian aid and international harmony, the cultural programs at Voksenåsen have manifestly been inspired by the second United Nations Secretary General, Dag Hammarskjold. Consequently, the conference centre has instituted programs that look outward, with particular attention to international aid, the South and developing countries. Staff in the centre’s cultural and programming departments are adept at arranging activities that range from linguistic, cultural, political and economic affairs to industry, tourism and regional cooperation.

After attending meetings, business visitors and

- Facts -

❖ 85 rooms ❖ ❖ 11 meeting and breakout rooms ❖ ❖ Conference capacity – 180 people ❖ ❖ Dinner capacity – 225 people ❖ ❖ All technical facilities ❖ ❖ 12 kilometres from Oslo city centre ❖ ❖ 50 kilometres from the airport ❖ ❖ 30 acres of natural gardens ❖ ❖ Outdoor swimming pool ❖ ❖ Fitness room ❖ ❖ Sauna ❖ ❖ Free parking ❖

- GPS coordinates -

59°58”31.77 N og 10°39”56.09 E

- Contact -

Voksenåsen Kultur og Konferansehotell, Ullveien 4, NO-0791 Oslo, Norway www.voksenaasen.no hotell@voksenaasen.no +47 22 81 15 00 conference delegates can relax and truly immerse themselves in a wide range of cultural activities provided by the hotel, as Voksenåsen also presents classical concerts, folkloric music events, traditional singers and much more. Scandinavia is renowned for its uniquely preserved customs and festive celebrations, which the conference centre observes with events throughout the year.

Valborgsmässoafton (Walpurgis Night), for example, is marked with bonfires, traditional songs, herring dishes and delicious schnapps, while Midsummer is celebrated with maypole dances, traditional games and delicious

food. Kräftskiva is commemorated with a long-established crayfish feast, although traditional drinking songs and a huge variety of cheeses from the Västerbotten region of Sweden are also in abundance at all these celebrations. Similarly, traditional songs and flavoured schnapps are hallmarks of the Santa Lucia festival – a midwinter festival that lasts well into the early hours of the morning.

Voksenåsen also boasts a huge and impressive art collection, which consists of paintings, glassware and sculptures. Containing the famous “Queen Crown with Mantle” by Ulla Marit Brantenberg – a stunning piece of silver and crystal craftwork – the exhibition is easily accessed and free of charge. Private tours of the Voksenåsen Gallery can also be arranged, enabling conference delegates to view the outstanding exhibition of well-known artists, such as Håkon Bleken, Ørnulf Opdahl, Dan Young, Frans Widerberg, Lena Cronquist and Lars Lerin. Business visitors with a literary bent can also relax in the Selma Lagerlöf library, an inspiring room filled with all the classics of Swedish and Norwegian literature.

In keeping with its noble heritage and global aspirations, Voksenåsen Culture and Conference Hotel has adopted an environmentally conscious outlook, and aims to become the most environmentally friendly hotel and conference centre on the market. As of this year, Voksenåsen is a Climate Neutral Enterprise and supports the building of energy efficient Gyapa Cooking Stoves in Ghana. Furthermore, the conference centre reports its sustainability targets in accordance with the guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) – a framework for reporting on corporate economic, environmental and social activities.

With its superb views over the pristine cityscape of Oslo, its proximity to some of the finest winter sporting facilities, first-class conference resources and world-class standards of environmental responsibility, Voksenåsen Culture and Conference Hotel towers majestically above the heads of all rivals as surely as it soars over the beautiful Oslofjord. l

“The restaurant is also able to devise menus in accordance with specific culinary themes, guaranteeing an unrivalled culinary experience”

theMICEreport l 121

darmstadt

Darmstadt: The City of Science

Photo © Darmstadt Marketing, Rüdiger Dunker

F Famed for its notable history in scientific and technological discoveries, and as a revered seat of learning, Darmstadt offers a diverse range of venues for event organisers and meeting planners.

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rom the grandly prestigious Orangerie in the Bessungen district to the stunning art gallery of the Mathildenhöhe Institute, the palpable ambience of this historical city is one of class and progress. As a world-leader in green meetings, forward-looking venues such as the energy-efficient darmstadtium Science and Congress Centre have helped place this sophisticated city at the forefront of sustainable, stylish destinations. It is a sign of Darmstadt’s importance that a chemical element, darmstadtium (atomic number 110) has even been named to commemorate the city.

Visitors to Darmstadt can immediately identify the scientific significance of this destination, as the city limit signs all state: ‘Wissenschaftsstadt Darmstadt’ – ‘City of Science Darmstadt’ – a moniker that has been officially designated by the state of Hesse. Consequently, more than 30 world-renowned research institutions are

based here, including the University of Applied Science Darmstadt and Darmstadt University of Technology, the GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research, three Fraunhofer Institutes and the European Space Operations Centre (ESOC).

For conference and meetings delegates seeking a taste of culture in their down-time, the exceptional Mathildenhöhe Institute provides an enriching experience for all artlovers. In the cultural heart of the city around the Mathildenhöhe, the unique Art Nouveau ensemble of the eye-catching Wedding Tower and Russian Chapel attracts thousands of visitors every year. Furthermore, Darmstadt is a member of the Frankfurt Rhine Main Cultural Initiative, which enables visitors to take full advantage of the world-class State Theatre and thriving alternative cultural scene all year round, including the Art Nouveau days, the Night of the Churches, and Darmstadt’s Long Night – which

Lufthansa Training & Conference Center Seeheim Lufthansaring 1, D-64342 Seeheim-Jugenheim, Tel +49 (0)69 696 13 9100, Fax +49 (0)69 696 13 1015 sales@lufthansa-seeheim.de, www.lufthansa-seeheim.de

Specialised in Meetings, Incentives, Convention and Events

Annual MICE Report Awards 2012 e nc re Best Confe Venue in Germany

· 483 bed rooms

· More than 80 training and meeting rooms with 12 to 100 m² · 5 multifunctional event rooms, some with an integrated lounge bar · Regular courtesy shuttle service from/to the airport Frankfurt · 30 minutes to Frankfurt · 500 parking places free of charge · Surrounded by nature · Recreation area

AWARD WINNING DMC SERVICES IN FINLAND • Action-packed snow-based incentives • Icebreakers, huskies, snowmobiles, Snow & Ice Hotels • World Design Capital, Helsinki • Midnight cruises, Rally driving events & Design programmes • Meetings & Conferences theMICEreport

Awards 2012 Best DMC: Finland

T he

xperience Travel E

BOHA_peruslogo_mv_ai.pdf 1 29.3.2010 13:55:23

FOR TAILOR-MADE PROPOSALS PLEASE CONTACT : www.travel-experience.net • merja.hart@travel-experience.net

BEST OF HELSINKI AWARDS

darmstadt The ESOC main control room Left: The team from the Tourism and Convention Bureau

brings the city’s stunning artistic and historic venues to the public.

As a result of its prime location in the RhineMain region and its handy proximity to Frankfurt Airport, Darmstadt is easily accessible for international visitors. In addition, there are two attractive recreational areas on the outskirts of the city: the picturesque Bergstraße region and the beautiful low mountain ranges of the Odenwald, both of which are ideal for outdoor pursuits and exploration.

For nature-lovers seeking to relax in Darmstadt itself, the city boasts numerous luscious gardens and parks through which one can stroll and unwind. In close proximity to the darmstadtium Science and Congress Centre, the idyllically peaceful green lawns and scenic lake of the Herrngarten awaits visitors. An active festival culture also provides many exciting events, in particular the Heinerfest, which is one of the country’s largest urban festivals and to which visitors can enjoy a vast range of traditional German foods and beers.

Commercial and social life Conference delegates and incentive visitors can also take advantage of this bustling city’s commercial and social life. Darmstadt offers an impressive array of high-class, independent and brand-name outlets, with more than 480 shops and approximately 130,000 square metres of outstanding retail space. Despite the vast diversity of this commercial paradise, all the shops are in close proximity of each other due to intelligent and attractive town planning.

Furthermore, the city offers a variety of quaint streets and town squares with a large variety of bars and restaurants for visitors to relax and enjoy.

On hand to assist busy conference and business meeting planners, the professional Tourism and Convention Bureau team at Darmstadt Marketing is able to advise, help plan and arrange premises for every event.

From meeting rooms in hotels to large-scale international conferences in historical venues with spectacular views, the Bureau has many years of experience meticulously perfecting events in the City of Science. Furthermore, the 124 l theMICEreport

Photos © Darmstadt Marketing / J.Mai

Bureau provides a simple-to-follow individual booking link for event websites that enables participants and delegates to find suitable hotel accommodation in the city.

As an important element to the success of events, social programmes are taken equally seriously by Darmstadt’s Tourism and Convention Bureau. The accommodating team are full of creative ideas and activities that can combine fine dining with art appreciation in historical and cultural settings, a celebration of scientific discovery and advancement in a well-respected research centre, or an exhilarating excursion into the sublime Odenwald Mountains. Whether the social programme includes a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Messel Pit Fossil Site, or a wine tour and tasting in the Bergstraße region, the Bureau is adept at ensuring every aspect of the programme is a memorable success.

Furthermore, around 2,000 guided tours around this historic city are organised by the Tourism and Convention Bureau each year, most of which are tailored to suit the needs and interests of specific groups. Steeped in the scientific and technological fame of the city, the team are able to dip into a wide repertoire of possibilities and ideas to make science experiential. For example, guided visits to the darmstadtium Science and Congress Centre or the mind-blowing European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) can be easily arranged, as can excursions to the August-Euler airfield or the Technische Universitat Darmstadt, the university that has consistently achieved international renown for its advances in engineering, computer and political science.

Similarly, the Bureau is able to sate the appetites of voracious culture vultures with

comprehensive tours of Darmstadt’s countless arts venues, including the Mathildenhöhe and the Artists’ Colony Museum, the Castle Museum and the Kranichsteiner Hunting Lodge. Alternatively, theatre-goers can be treated to a dramatic evening at the celebrated State Theatre, while visitors with an interest in impressive architecture can tour the ultramodern gilded domes of the Waldspirale – or ‘Forest Spiral’ building – designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser. In total, around 70 different tours are available for guests in English, French, Dutch, Spanish, Italian or Russian.

The Tourism and Convention Bureau team is able to assist organisers in all matters relating to the hosting of special events in Darmstadt, and the team is more than willing to establish contacts with event agencies, catering companies and all cultural institutions to ensure the smooth running of programmes in the city. Having been honoured as a Senior Citizens Friendly Company in addition to being a certified member of the quality assurance management system ServiceQuality Germany in Hesse, the Bureau has been recognised for its outstanding customer focus, flexibility and quality of service. With the support of such an effective team in an outstanding location, the City of Science presents the perfect destination for intelligent events. l Wissenschaftsstadt Darmstadt Marketing GmbH l Touristik und Convention Büro Im Carree 1 64283 Darmstadt l Telephone: +49 - 6151-1345-11/-12 /-16 l tcb@darmstadt.de l www.darmstadt-marketing.de

the bregenz festival house

The Bregenz Festival House A modern conference and events centre overlooking the magnificent scenery of Lake Constance, The Bregenz Festival House is one of Austria’s finest MICE destinations. Ed Carpenter looks at the sustainable facilities of this sensational venue.

S

ituated on the scenic shores of Lake Constance at the northern tip of the Alps, The Bregenz Festival House is a beautiful international convention centre in Austria that caters to more than 400,000 guests each year. Having established itself as an attractive destination for cultural, social and corporate events of every kind, this charismatic venue has a well-earned reputation for promoting and organising high-level international conferences and meetings.

Consequently, the Bregenz Festival House is one of Austria’s key MICE venues and has been recognised as one of the top three convention centres in the world by the International Association of Congress Centres in 2004 and 2010.

Furthermore, the European Association of Event Centres (EVVC) named the Festival House the best convention centre in its category in Europe in 2011.

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During the summer months, the centre’s stunning premises are used for many of the musical and theatrical performances for the worldfamous Bregenz Festival, while Lake Constance becomes the location of a 7,000-seater floating stage that presents large-scale operatic and musical concerts.

With thirteen gorgeously designed and fully equipped meeting rooms, the Festival House can host events for between 60 to 4,500 guests, capably meeting all the requirements of small conferences and large conventions. The highly trained and experienced team are on hand to offer tailored solutions for specific requirements, and can either provide supplementary event support or take full and professional charge of the complete process of organisation.

In addition, this charming venue offers all the latest technical amenities and audio-visual

equipment needed to ensure a flawless event, including high-speed Wi-Fi in all the rooms. With a full range of amenities to assist those with disabilities, The Bregenz Festival House is also equipped with a guiding system to assist the visually impaired, in addition to an audio system for those with hearing impairments.

In recent years, The Bregenz Festival House has hosted a vast range of international ecological and sustainable events, and has developed its business practises to include a focus on sustainable management and social action. Consequently, the Austrian Ministry of the Environment has recognised the centre’s sustainable achievements with a ‘Green Meetings’ award. This outstanding venue has also been certified under the Ökoprofit program – an initiative for sustainable environmental management and cost-reducing eco-friendly improvements for companies situated in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg.

The Festival House is also renowned for its excellent dining facilities, high culinary standards and world-class cuisine. The in-house catering partner Eventz offers a variety of seasonal and locally sourced ingredients in its constantly updated menu options. Furthermore, the venue’s service partner, Convention Partner Vorarlberg, is an excellent provider with many years’ experience of ensuring a seamless service for guests. The services include sourcing perfect accommodation solutions, registrations, transfers, hotel bookings, social programmes and much more.

The Festival House’s handy location ensures it is easily accessible for international visitors, being on the border of three European countries, and just a three-minute walk away from Bregenz railway station. The conference centre can be quickly reached from Altenrhein (ACH) Airport in Switzerland or Friedrichshafen (FDH) Airport in Germany, while Zurich Airport is accessible by train or by car in less than one and a half hours. l

silberball.com

With many thanks to our customers Every day a fascinating world - Bregenz Festival House.

www.festspielhausbregenz.at

arcona

Absolute arcona

Providing impeccable conferences and unbeatable service in some of Germany’s most idyllic locations, arcona Hotels & Resorts has been duly awarded the Best Conference Hotel Group in Germany in this year’s MICE Report Awards. Neil Walden investigates the absolute in perfection served by this award-winning brand.

O

ne of Europe’s most distinctive hotel chains, arcona Hotels & Resorts has carved out an admirable reputation for itself as the provider of excellent service in unforgettable properties throughout Germany.

Recognised for luxuriant comfort, warm hospitality and an excellent choice of mouthwatering cuisines in its highly acclaimed restaurants, arcona has been resoundingly voted the Best Conference Hotel Group in Germany in The MICE Report Awards 2012.

At each of arcona’s high-quality hotels and resorts, meetings and incentive guests are treated to the same outstanding service and meticulous care. The hotel chain prides itself on constantly providing guests with the highest level of service and quality cuisine, whether the event is a confidential business meeting, an incentive group or a large-scale conference. From the picturesque scenery and fairytale castles of the Mecklenburgische Schweiz region, the historically quaint and charming market towns of Saxony and Bavaria, to the vibrant cultural pulse of ultramodern metropolises such as Berlin, Leipzig or Stuttgart, arcona hotels capture the ambience of their environment.

One of the most significant features that

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characterises all arcona Hotels & Resorts is the warm and relaxing atmosphere that each guest experiences during their memorable stay. With magnificent meeting and conference facilities, modern convention rooms that are fully equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual technology and first-rate health and wellbeing facilities, this award-winning hotel chain successfully combines the professional service of a world-class meetings venue with convivial hospitality.

For organisers planning events of every kind, arcona prides itself on providing the most suitable facilities to fit the occasion – whether the aim of the event is to inspire, motivate, negotiate or entertain. The arcona hotel in legendary Wartburg, for example is in a romantic setting surrounded by a sea of trees and offers a range of conference facilities, from ornately decorated meeting rooms for intimate discussions to highranking receptions in the vast mediaeval Hall of Heraldry (Wappensaal).

Furthermore, arcona Hotels & Resorts also provides an expert and highly skilled team of support staff to help planners fulfil the objectives of their events. The conference staff aim to exceed the expectations of meetings professionals by offering the most affordable

prices with a matchless quality guarantee. To meet these goals, arcona presents a special deal, called ‘Give me five’, which is available for all new booked events that take place before 31st March 2013. This deal includes the chance to save up to 20 percent on the cost of an event, with every fifth meeting being offered free of charge.

This time-limited offer is available for meetings of between five and 10 participants and is available at any of arcona’s 14 exquisite venues.

One idyllic location for such a meeting is at Landhotel Schloss Teschow, arcona’s tranquil hotel embedded in the gentle hilly landscape of Mecklenburgische Schweiz and surrounded by the 140 hectare estate of a Natural Park.

This immense woodland paradise adjoins the Teterower See – a natural lake that presents numerous outdoor activities for incentive visitors.

A perfect location to meet without distractions or relax in natural surroundings, the theme of the Landhotel Schloss Teschow resort is: ‘live – breathe – grow’.

In addition to the outdoor opportunities presented by the lake and stress-free countryside, the area also offers MICE visitors the chance to enjoy and improve their golfing abilities on the hotel’s 110-acre golf park. The nine-hole golf course is perfectly suited for beginners, while the 18-hole championship course is a worthy challenge for the more experienced golfer.

Alternatively, meetings professionals can hold an unforgettable event at arcona’s deliciously stylish and comfortable Steigenberger Hotel Remarque, situated near the picturesque mediaeval town of Osnabrück. Founded by Charlemagne in the 8th century, Osnabrück is a history-lover’s paradise, filled with cultural delights for sight-seeing visitors. Creatively designed and famed for its superior cuisine, Steigenberger Hotel Remarque is just one of arcona’s 14 superlative venues that will exceed the expectations of all event planners.

Conveniently located in the heart of Europe, arcona Hotels & Resorts are easily accessible and guaranteed to deliver award-winning service in beautiful surroundings. l

Value added for your meetings and events.

Stralsund

Are you planning on hosting an inspiring, surprising, motivating and thrilling event? From a traditional conference to an incentive event, our arcona HOTELS & RESORTS provide right setting.

Our pledge and commitment to you.

Our approach for meetings and events.

Rostock Wismar Teschow

Potsdam

Berlin

Osnabrück Braunschweig (Projekt)

The arcona approach for meetings and events offers: • Value added for the speaker in the form of a free upgrade and a culinary surprise at the hotel restaurant • A response to your inquiry within 4 hours and a quote within 24 hours • All conference equipment including free use of a projector • All meals are largely sourced locally – short supply chains protect the environment

Eisenach

Leipzig

Stuttgart

Our meetings and events hotline for you: +49 (0)800 918 18 18* (*free from a German land line)

Augsburg Baden-Baden Schaffhausen (Projekt)

arcona HoTels & ResoRTs · Steinstraße 9 · D- 18055 Rostock veranstaltung@arcona.de · www.arcona.de

iceland

Inspirational Iceland Best known for its dramatic landscapes of volcanoes, glaciers and geothermal spas, Iceland also boasts a variety of first-class conference venues and one of the strongest economies in Europe. Cliff James explores the legendary land, culture and facilities of this unforgettable island.

N Icelland is an eco-tourist’s playground

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o visitor to Iceland can fail to be inspired by the spectacular panorama of this awe-inspiring island on the edge of the Arctic Circle. A dramatic, unpolluted and magical playground for outdoor enthusiasts, the landscape is infused with ancient myths and filled with boiling mud pools, lava fields, surging geysers, smouldering volcanoes and formidable waterfalls.

This is an extraordinary realm where untouched nature coexists in perfect harmony with modern culture, as the nation’s capital city has a well-deserved reputation as the ‘Nightlife Capital of the North’. From the vibrantly cosmopolitan cafes, clubs and concert halls of Reykjavik to the breathtaking plateaus of Europe’s largest desert and the most powerful

waterfalls on the entire continent, Iceland is an unforgettable world of extremes.

Although it shares many characteristic social traits with its Scandinavian counterparts – in particular, a remarkably high quality of life, low crime rates, immaculate streets, and a constant topfive ranking on the Human Development Index – Iceland is also distinctly unique as a MICE destination. Due in no small part to its geographic location in the North Atlantic, the island boasts an independent history, literature, cuisine, culture and climate from its Nordic neighbours.

Despite its high latitude, for example, Iceland benefits from the warm currents of the North Atlantic Drift and enjoys generally higher temperatures than locations of similar latitude. It’s uniquely

central position also ensures shorter flight times for international MICE visitors, being less than five hours from New York or Moscow, and three from London.

It was Iceland’s convenient location that led to Reykjavik being chosen as the site of the groundbreaking peace summit between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev in 1986, which laid the foundations for the end of the Cold War. The beautiful building in which the two leaders met, Hofdi House, is used for receptions and banquets, and the picturesque grounds are still a key attraction for visitors.

Iceland’s detached geography also meant it was settled much later than any other area of Europe – the first known settler being the famous Viking chieftain Ingólfr Arnarson in 874 CE – and it subsequently developed a fiercely independent culture. From the Icelandic sagas and eddas, considered masterpieces of the High Middle Ages, to the inimitable 19th century poetry that sprung from the independence movement, the island nation has a wellearned reputation for literary excellence.

iceland

Importing, translating and publishing more international literature per capita than any other nation, and with the highest number of bookstores per capita in the world, Iceland is as much a focal point for bibliophiles as it is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

For event organisers seeking to include this literary heritage in a cultural programme, The Culture House in Reykjavik is an essential attraction.

Housing many of the island’s national treasures, including the beautifully decorated original vellum manuscripts of the mediaeval Icelandic sagas, the Codex Regius and the Flateyjarbók, this fascinating museum charts the history of the Icelandic people from the earliest pagan times to the Viking exploration of the Atlantic. With an extraordinary exhibition of landscape paintings, modern sculptures and contemporary art installations, the Culture House is also an exquisite venue for hosting international meetings, conferences, lectures and exhibitions.

The Reykjavik Art Museum is equally fascinating for MICE visitors looking to sample the cultural delights of the city in their downtime between meetings.

Housing the largest art collection in Iceland, this immense museum is spread over five architecturally stunning sites and includes the Kjarvalsstadir, which is devoted to the vast collection of Iceland’s best-loved and most groundbreaking landscape artist Johannes S. Kjarval.

The Asmundarsafn, another wing of the Art Museum, is a futuristic, domed venue which displays a range of sculptures, including the haunting figures of Ásmundur Sveinsson, whose artwork was inspired by the people, folktales and distinctive culture of this Nordic wonderland. Offering a variety of international exhibitions, art events, festivals and guided tours all year round, the various sites of the Reykjavik Art Museum can also be hired as the venues for conferences, meetings and impressive banquets.

No cultural tour of Reykjavik would be complete without a meander down to the city’s charming old fishing harbour, where whale-watching cruises can be hired and the characterful quayside warehouses have been converted into boutique

restaurants and shops. The Vikin Maritime Museum is also located down here, which showcases sea-related photography and fine art displays, in addition to an exhibition around the old seafaring vessel ‘Odinn’.

Iceland’s capital – vibrantly cosmopolitan Reykjavik

Economic dynamism Also situated near the old harbour is the award-winning international conference centre that has been hailed as a symbol of Iceland’s renewed economic dynamism.

The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is a lavishly designed glass and steel masterpiece overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Winner of the Best Conference Venue in Northern Europe in this year’s MICE Report Awards, the superlative Harpa is illuminated like a giant neon honeycomb on Reykjavik’s seafront and has already hosted a range of worldclass congresses and concerts in the 18 months it has been operating.

Reykjavik boasts an outstanding array of exclusive nightclubs, concert halls, first-rate malls and commercial high streets, and the particularly fashionable Smáralind and Laugavegur areas are welldeserving of a shopping trip. However, it goes without saying that any intrepid incentive or conference delegation should definitely venture beyond the safety of the capital and explore the magical wilderness beyond.

With unexpectedly warm summers that contain days when the sun never sets behind the horizon, adventurous MICE visitors can take advantage of hiking, mountain-biking or canoeing opportunities to discover the island’s three magnificent National Parks or the 4,970-kilometre-long coastline of awe-inspiring fjords.

Vatnajökull National Park, for example, is well-served by an impressive range of campsites, visitor centres, hotels and facilities that incentive guests can use en route to Dettifoss – the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

Alternatively, a variety of bespoke tours can be arranged to visit majestic Snaefell, the 700,000-year-old volcanic mountain made famous in Jules Verne’s Journey

The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is a lavishly designed glass and steel masterpiece

to the Centre of the Earth. For those who prefer their adventures to take place closer to the capital, Heidmork is an ecotourist’s playground, providing sustainable opportunities for mountain-biking, rafting, glacier-hiking, horse-riding, sea-kayaking, cave-exploration or whale-watching – all just a couple of hours from Reykjavik’s luxurious hotels.

As Iceland boasts some of the finest natural spas in the world, many MICE visitors make the most of the island’s superb resort facilities to relax and rejuvenate after a tough outdoor hike or an even tougher conference. For the ultimate in pampering, the Blue Lagoon in Grindavík is a first-rate health clinic and geothermal spa, which is hewn of 800-year-old volcanic rock and provides naturally warm, milky-white, mineralrich seawater bathing and silica mud treatments.

If this bewildering assortment of firstclass incentive rewards, once-in-a-lifetime outdoor activities, conference facilities and cultural attractions all seems too much to take in, Iceland’s award-winning Destination Management Company is on hand to bring it all together. With particular experience with incentive travel, teambuilding programmes, and creative events, Practical Travel is a wellestablished DMC that only works with qualified and experience suppliers, and tailors all its services to fit in with its clients’ requirements and expectations.

Furthermore, as the well-deserved winner of The Best DMC in Iceland in The MICE Report Awards 2012, Practical Travel is the obvious first point of call for all event organisers seeking to hold an unforgettable event in this enchanting island. l

“Many MICE visitors make the most of the island’s superb resort facilities to relax and rejuvenate after a tough outdoor hike or an even tougher conference” theMICEreport l 131

harpa

Harpa: Playing the right chords

Capable, sustainable and sensational – the pioneering Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre in Reykjavik hits all the right chords to win the Best Conference Venue in Northern Europe in The MICE Report Awards 2012. Cliff James investigates the spectacular new music venue and conference centre in the greenest city on earth.

F

amed for its spectacular northern light displays, rejuvenating thermal spas and fantastic scenery for outdoor enthusiasts, the ‘Land of Ice and Fire’ is equally renowned as the most peaceful country on the planet.

Comfortably clinching the top spot on the Global Peace Index again in 2012, Iceland is also a wellestablished torchbearer of democracy, having pioneered a series of popular referenda and open consultations on the country’s constitution.

Perhaps less well known is the fact that Iceland’s economy is today regarded as one of Europe’s recovery success stories, with an expected annual economic growth topping 4.5 percent this year – one of the strongest

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rates among developed countries. With strong economic growth, an array of outdoor activities for incentive visitors, and a vibrant cultural scene, Iceland is an attractive MICE hotspot.

The most visionary fact about this breathtaking island is it is also a global trendsetter in the field of renewable energy, generating 100 percent of its electricity from renewable sources.

With Reykjavik University a world leader in sustainable energy research, it is unsurprising that the capital city boasts a range of energy-efficient MICE venue centres – the most outstanding of which has been awarded the Best Conference Venue in Northern Europe in The MICE Report Awards 2012. The Harpa Conference Centre is a new congress centre in the vivacious heart of Reykjavik, and has already welcomed more than 1.3 million guests into its ultramodern halls since opening in May 2011.

Having established itself as the leading green meetings and events venue in Reykjavik, Harpa has already hosted an impressive itinerary of celebrated musicians and cultural icons, including

Jamie Cullum, Bryan Ferry, Björk, the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra and Berliner Philharmoniker.

Recognised as one of the greatest concert halls of the new millennium by Gramophone magazine, Harpa is also an outstanding meetings venue that hosts first-class international conferences, including EUWIN2011, EABCT 2011 and the Reykjavik Peace Parliament.

Offering 31,000 square metres of high-tech function space, four vast event halls, spacious reception and exhibition spaces, and exceptional meeting rooms with views over Reykjavik harbour – all fully equipped with the most advanced technical equipment – the Harpa Conference Centre deserves its recognition in this year’s MICE Report Awards.

Designed by the eminent artist Olafur Eliasson with Henning Larsen Architects and Batteriið Architects, the immense glass façade is crafted to utilise natural light and ventilation, thereby reducing power consumption. With easily visible recycling containers for staff and guests, the widespread use of china, glass and silverware rather than disposables, and use of local produce in the centre’s bistro, restaurants, bars, shops and catering services, Harpa is a pioneering green conference destination. In fulfilling the demands of responsible conference organisers, the centre offsets its travel and shipping carbon emissions through the Icelandic Carbon fund.

Conveniently located in the centre of transAtlantic air traffic routes, Reykjavik makes strategic sense for international meetings, being a shorter flight from major international centres.

Located in the heart of Iceland’s well-connected and welcoming capital, the award-winning Harpa Conference Centre is setting the standard for cutting-edge sustainable conferencing. l

If you can‘t believe your eyes or your ears, then you‘re probably in Harpa.

www.harpa.is

Harpa – the new concert hall and conference centre in Reykjavík.

Sendai: The City of Trees

© Sendai Tourism

sendai

Winner of the Best Convention Bureau in Japan in The MICE Report Awards 2012, the Sendai Tourism And Convention Bureau provides comprehensive MICE support in a stunning location.

Caroline Branwell explores the outstanding facilities in Sendai, The City of Trees.

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ith a population of more than one million people, Sendai is the largest city in the Tohoku Region of Japan.

Famous as a centre of science and culture, Sendai boasts more than 20 leading universities, colleges, research institutes, museums and other centres of learning. The city has also been named The City of Trees because of its lush, greenery and the vast rows of magnificent zelkova trees that line the streets.

Established in the 17th century by the warlord Date Masamune – menacingly known as ‘OneEyed Dragon’ – this fascinating city offers an array of historical sites for MICE visitors to explore during their downtime. In addition to the atmospheric ruins of Sendai Castle and the Sendai City Museum, the elaborately decorated Zuih den, or mausoleum complex of Date Masamune, is an absolute must-see for all visitors.

The wealth of post-conference entertainment opportunities includes such captivating events as the Jozenji-Dori Street Jazz Festival and the Tanabata Festival, one of the region’s largest summer festivals. For those with time to discover 134 l theMICEreport

the wider region, there are many sites of natural beauty and hot spring resorts, including Akiu and Sakunami Onsen, both perfect locations to rejuvenate in luxurious surroundings. The spectacular volcanic scenery of Mount Zao is also close by, while Matsushima Bay provides some of the most breathtakingly views that Japan has to offer.

This beautiful destination offers a full range of accommodation types, from small familyrun hotels to international standard high-end properties, all offering excellent value for money.

The fully equipped Sendai International Centre, for example, is able to host a variety of international meetings, while the luxurious Akiu Onsen and Sakunami Onsen hot spring resorts provide opportunities to hold large-scale conventions that fully utilise the rich natural resources.

To help international meeting planners deliver the perfect event, the Sendai Tourism and Convention Bureau offers a variety of expert services, such as assisting with the selection of conference centres and hotels, sourcing proposals from venues, and introductions to local

MICE suppliers, not to mention support with all conference programmes and cultural activities.

As a result of its superior service, the bureau has been voted the Best Convention Bureau in Japan in The MICE Report Awards 2012.

Recognising the bureau’s outstanding achievement, Charles Vandeleur, Chief Editor of The MICE Report, commended the organisation.

“I’m delighted that the Sendai Convention Bureau has been voted by our readers as the Best Convention Bureau in Japan for The Annual MICE Report Awards 2012,” he said. “This prestigious award has been won in a very tough category, highlighting the fantastic work the Sendai Convention Bureau does in promoting their region as a leading MICE destination.”

Well-connected with convenient access to the rest of the world from Sendai Airport, the city is linked to Tokyo Airport via the high-speed Tohoku Shinkansen rail-link. Renowned for its efficiency and hospitality, and now boasting an award-winning Convention Bureau, Sendai offers MICE visitors a world-class destination they will remember. l

trinidad and tobago

Timeless delight in With superlative diving through coral wonderlands, eco tours in verdant rainforests, hiking, cycling and a carnival to end all carnivals, Trinidad and Tobago provides the perfect accompaniments to an idyllic event.

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othing in the Caribbean can compare to the unsurpassed energy, diversity and distinctive heritage of the modern, cosmopolitan city of Port of Spain, the capital of Trinidad and Tobago. For those seeking to organise new and exciting events in the Caribbean, the Trinidad and Tobago Convention Bureau (TTCB) will work closely with meeting planners to secure the right event venue and plan the perfect programme.

As diverse and innovative as the destination it serves, the TTCB offers unrivalled expertise and an impressive range of free services to groups and meeting planners. From comprehensive information on this stunning destination’s venues, hotels and pricing to acting as an intermediary between accommodation providers and meeting coordinators, local chapters of international organisations, business chambers and incoming groups, the TTCB will

ensure the event budget is maximised.

The Bureau’s services are targeted to fulfil the specific needs of meeting planners, and include the provision of promotional literature, site inspections, assistance with official bids, information and quotations from suppliers and conference marketing. The TTCB can also operate as a liaison and coordinator for hoteliers, tour guides and tour operators, while providing information kits for delegates and arranging tours and spouse programmes.

Specialising in creating the perfect preand post-event package, the Bureau can tailor activities that are guaranteed to surpass the expectations and delight the senses of all delegates. The vast range of exceptional activities can include beach outings, in which participants sample local street cuisine, or rum tours at the famous Angostura distillery, where delegates are immersed in the history of the world renowned Angostura Bitters.

trinidad and tobago

Trinidad and Tobago Recent tours sponsored by the Bureau have included an exhilarating musical experience where delegates received lessons to play Trinidad and Tobago’s national instrument, the steel pan, while enjoying the islands’ traditional rum punch. The Bureau has also organised an eco adventure at the internationally recognised Asa Wright Nature Centre for bird watching and conservation, located deep within a tropical rainforest.

Established in August 2009, the Bureau has a talent for making the ordinary extraordinary and built an impressive reputation for

“The Bureau can tailor activities that are guaranteed to surpass the expectations and delight the senses of all delegates.”

successfully facilitating major events. In the first half of 2011, for example, the TTCB facilitated more than 20 meetings and conferences, including the Caribbean Development Bank Board of Governors Annual General Meeting, the Caribbean Investment Forum, the Trade and Investment Conference – which drew exhibitors from as far as China – and the Trinidad and Tobago Energy Conference, which attracted the industry’s most influential names and decision makers.

In 2011, the TTCB facilitated more than 30 meetings and conferences, including the Caribbean Development Bank Board of Governors Annual General Meeting, the International Project Management Conference, the Trade and Investment Conference - which drew exhibitors from as far as China - and the Trinidad and Tobago Energy Conference, which attracted the industry’s most influential names and decision makers.

This year, Trinidad and Tobago will host the International Press Institute World Congress on Press Freedom in June, which is expected to attract more than 400 delegates, including top media houses and journalists, from around the world. Other exciting conferences planned for 2012 include the Caribbean Veterinary Association Conference, the Pan-American Congress of Applied Mechanics, and the Lions’ Multiple District Convention, which will attract 900 delegates from around the region. l

To learn more about this exciting Caribbean destination, contact the Trinidad & Tobago Convention Bureau at: conventionbureau@tdc.co.tt or visit: http://www.gotrinidadandtobago.com/ trinidad/meetings Plan Trinidad & Tobago – your clients would love you for it.

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Trinidad & Tobago the other side of the caribbean...

Trinidad and Tobago Sightseeing Tours is the country’s premier tour operator serving a large majority of International Travel Agents, Wholesalers and Incentive Houses with services on both islands including: • Meet and greet • Transportation • Tours to various Attractions • Incentive and Conference handling • Hotel representation • Reconfirmation of flights • Cruise ship shore excursions So if you are looking for a highly dedicated and professional team to take care of your conference or incentive needs Trinidad and Tobago Sightseeing Tours would welcome the opportunity to hear from you.

T & T Sightseeing Tours 165a Western Main Road, St. James, Trinidad and Tobago T: 1 868 628 0668 F: 1 868 622 9205 E: carvalho@tstt.net.tt

www.trintours.com

Apartment Hotel Norway A HOME ABROAD

Tired of high travel expenses for yourself and your employees?

We all know that being on a business trip and staying at a hotel can be expensive and impersonal. You will soon miss the freedom that an apartment provides. Apartment Hotel Norway offers short term rental in central Oslo. We offer different types of apartment according your needs. Whether it is for a short business trip or long term consulting assignments; we have studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom apartments. All apartments are fully furnished, has cable TV, free wifi, fully equipped kitchen.

Everything is arranged for our guests to feel independent and at home. We offer parking in our underground parking. *Apartments from 595 NOK per day

Call us on (+47) 930 12 735 (Mon-Fri am 0800-pm 0400) for an offer or e-mail ina@apartmenthotel.no You can also visit our website at www.apartmenthotel.no for more information. *offer is valid for bookings over 14 days

Advertising Feature

The Hilton Vilamoura A Portuguese Paradise Located in the magnificent Algarve, land of all-year sunshine and idyllic relaxation, the Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort and Spa is a picturesque paradise for functional business meetings and refreshing incentive trips.

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or those who yearn for an indulgent afternoon in a relaxing spa, to be immersed in the private seclusion of a comfortable guestroom, or savour a delicious meal by cascading poolside waterfalls, the Hilton Vilamoura offers it all. Alternatively, if relaxation comes through exercise and activity, then the choices range from horse riding, water sports, a vibrant marina, clubs, bars, restaurants, beaches, an international casino, exciting shops, and of course the finest golfing, to name only a few.

The Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort and Spa is situated within four hectares of idyllic and romantic gardens, adorned by enormous pools, cascading waterways, lakes, grottos and picturesque pavilions that create a complete sense of serenity. In keeping with Vilamoura’s heritage, the resort’s modern architecture has a distinctive Moorish accent.

The Hilton Vilamoura has been voted Best Luxury Hotel in Portugal 2009, in addition to receiving numerous accolades from the World Travel Awards, including Portugal Leading Hotel in 2009, Portugal Leading Golf Resort in 2010 and Portugal’s Leading Resort in 2011. The hotel features a comprehensive

array of business amenities – perfect for meetings, conferences and corporate teambuilding exercises.

There are 183 spacious guestrooms, including 10 junior suites, one presidential suite and 41 one- and two-bedroom apartments.

All enjoy large balconies or terraces, with rooms and suites overlooking the nearby golf courses or the resort’s lush gardens. Rooms are air-conditioned and come equipped with flatscreen TVs, on-demand movies and tea and coffee facilities.

This outstanding hotel also provides three restaurants and two relaxing bars. The Cilantro restaurant serves traditional Portuguese and Latin American Cuisine, the Moscada Restaurant offers buffet menus at breakfast and dinner meal times, while the Aquarela Bar and Restaurant opens during the summer for alfresco meals and thematic buffets and barbecues. Delicious cocktails, spirits, tapas and light snacks are also available at the Rubi Bar, while the Beach Club As Cascatas features live music and sports shown on TV, and is also open during summertime for cocktails and light snacks.

A veritable haven of tranquillity, the Hilton

Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort takes pride in offering state-of-the-art spa facilities. As one of the largest relaxation amenities in Portugal, the exceptional 7 Seven Spa covers an area of more than 2800 square metres, although it is not its size that impresses but the repertoire of health, beauty and rejuvenating wellness products available. In keeping with the hotel’s superlative standard of service, every detail is carefully considered to ensure the most memorable, relaxing experience.

The hotel features a comprehensive array of business amenities, perfect for all meetings, conferences and corporate teambuilding exercises for up to 400 people. Six flexible meeting rooms can be divided in 10 multipurpose breakout rooms, a foyer area and a scenic courtyard that is ideal for cocktails and exhibitions. The Business Centre comes equipped with a dedicated Hilton Meetings Manager, an on-site audio-visual team and state-of-the-art conferencing equipment.

Easily accessible from Faro International Airport, the Hilton Vilamoura utilises all of the Hilton brand’s expertise on business services to provide unrivalled catering options and impeccable meeting spaces. l

As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa Rua da Torre de Água, Lote 4.11.1B 8125-615 Vilamoura, Portugal l Tel.: +351 289 304 000 l Fax: +351 289 304 005 l Email: sales.vilamoura@hilton.com l Book online at: www.hiltonvilamouraresort.com

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oitavos

Oitavos:

The Garden of Earthly Delights Winner of the Best Conference Hotel in Portugal in this year’s MICE Report Awards, The Oitavos has been perfectly designed for the highest quality events.

Ed Carpenter takes a look at the idyllic destination that offers it all.

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estling on a flawless stretch of coastline in the Sintra Cascais National Park, with far-reaching views over the alluring Atlantic, The Oitavos is a five-star conference hotel that exceeds all expectations.

Architecturally bold, defined by sleek lines, contemporary sculptures and elegantly graceful interiors, this ingeniously designed venue exudes class and unimpeachable style, and focuses the attention outwards to the immense blue of the ocean, golden sand dunes and a kaleidoscopic palette of verdant wildflowers and pine forests.

Located on the Estoril Coast, which gained fame as a high-class resort for Portugal’s aristocracy in the 19th century and is still one of the country’s most exclusive regions, The Oitavos is the crown of the area Lord Byron once described as “a glorious Eden – a garden of

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earthly delights”.

Set within the family-owned Quinta da Marinha estate, incentive and conference guests have complete access to an elite range of leisure and relaxation activities, such as horse-riding across the pristine dunes at the Equestrian Centre, a range of wellbeing treatments at the Health and Racket Club, or a round of golf on The Oitavos Dunes – which is ranked 68th on GOLF Magazine’s 2011 ‘Top 100 Courses in the World’.

Furthermore, there is an astonishing range of exciting outdoor activities along this perfectly preserved coastal region, ideal for incentive activities or to complement a conference programme. From surfing, yachting, windsurfing and kitesurfing, to world-class tennis facilities, The Oitavos offers guests excellent access to a vast array of sporting opportunities.

This incomparable venue takes the dining experience to a higher level, presenting MICE visitors with a uniquely modern interpretation of Portuguese and international cuisines. Overseen by the renowned Executive Chef Cyril Divilliers, who perfected his trade at three Michelin-starred restaurants, and the award-winning Executive Sous and Pastry Chef Joaquim de Sousa, the gastronomic masterpieces served at The Oitavos’s restaurants are truly unforgettable.

The Ipsylon Restaurant and Bar, for example, is a stylishly designed, cosmopolitan setting, ideal for post-conference socialising and superior dining. In the evenings, ‘Le Diner Du Chef’ is the highly recommended option, offering a set-tasting menu in which mouth-watering

seafood dishes are matched with exquisite wines. Carefully selected ingredients, ingeniously combined by the master chefs, are presented in a tempting menu of tasty tapas, innovative salads, delicious meats and locally sourced fresh Atlantic fish – not to mention the array of delectable desserts.

As a first-rate conference venue, The Oitavos is an event organiser’s dream location. Offering nine sleekly designed meeting rooms that can accommodate between 10 and 1,300 delegates, the hotel provides high-speed wireless internet connection and an impressive showroom for large exhibition items, such as cars or even small planes. Since it opened in 2010, this exhibition space has led to The Oitavos being selected as the setting of four major car launches, due also to the scenic roads around the property.

The conference hotel also offers a beautifully planned multiuse meeting room – Les Herbes – which offers 660 square metres for up to 1,300 conference guests and access to a landscaped outdoor patio area. With 142 stunning guest rooms, each with balconies and scenic views, including two breathtaking presidential suites, The Oitavos has truly deserved to win The Best Conference Hotel in Portugal in this year’s MICE Report Awards.

Easily accessible for international visitors, The Oitavos is less than a 30-minute drive from Lisbon International Airport and a 15-minute drive from a private landing strip. Boasting an on-site helicopter pad for special arrivals, The Oitavos is a world-class conference destination in a natural Eden. l

Looking for a different approach to corporate events?

In business you know how important it is to be different; to be memorable. At La Manga Club, Spain that’s exactly how we’ve been doing things for over 40 years.

With 2,300 sqm of versatile meeting space and Europe’s widest range of motivational and team building activities, our highly experienced in-house event organisers make everything happen seamlessly.

We remember every detail of your experience; so you won’t forget a thing. Like the fabulous food, the awe-inspiring landscape and the wonderful Murcian microclimate.

And all just a short haul flight away…

Visit www.lamangaclub.com call +34 968 33 1234 or email sales@lamangaclub.com

The Magnificence of Moscow Rivalling Rome and Byzantium as a vast, imperial power, Moscow continues to reign as a royal MICE destination today. Cliff James explores the fascinating culture, visitor attractions and meeting facilities of the megacity known as The Third Rome.

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ising majestically along the meandering banks of the Moskva River, Moscow is a captivating metropolis that fuses the best of East and West in its awe-inspiring architecture, culture and conference facilities. As the second largest megacity in Europe, Moscow is the financial and educational centre of Russia, and is home to the largest number of billionaires in the world.

With more than 60 universities and 220 higher education institutions and renowned business schools, the vibrant capital of the Russian Federation is a key destination for international medical, economic and business conferences.

This synthesis of academic excellence and high-tech industry is surpassed only by the fusion of historical eras that have coalesced into the city’s breathtaking architecture, for which Moscow is universally acclaimed. Tsarist palaces, Orthodox monasteries and 19th century bourgeois façades stand side-by-side with Soviet-era superstructures and 21st century skyscrapers. Conference and incentive visitors are inevitably drawn to return to Moscow, only to discover that there can never be enough time to explore all that this absorbing city has to offer.

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Above: Business travellers looking to enjoy their leisure time in Moscow would have to begin in Red Square

St Basil’s Cathedral – the most famous site in Moscow

Endlessly fascinating for MICE visitors, the secret of Moscow’s contemporary charm lies in the legendary history that informs its present. With a past that goes back 800 years, Moscow began life as a humble township in the vast Mongol Empire of Genghis Khan. By the 15th century, it had grown to become the capital of Muscovy under Ivan the Great, the first tsar of Russia, whose marriage to the niece of the last Byzantine emperor ensured Moscow became the imperial and spiritual heir to Byzantium and Rome – hence the city’s nickname as The Third Rome.

As the thriving capital of a vast empire that stretched from the borders of Canada, Korea and Mongolia to the shores of the Black and Baltic Seas, all trade roads in the vast Eurasian landmass led to Moscow. This blending of cultures continued through the Enlightenment years of Catherine the Great to the socialist revolution of 1917, and the explosion of Western-style capitalism in the 1990s. Today, the echo of each of these vividly divergent eras is indelibly marked in the ambience of Moscow’s character.

For event and incentive organisers seeking a unique

destination with no shortage of cultural programme opportunities, Moscow is unrivalled. All business travellers looking to enjoy their leisure time in The Third Rome would have to begin in the heart of the city: Red Square. From this central location, all highways lead out of Moscow to the four corners of the vast former Empire. The key state institutions and tourist attractions are situated around the edge of this awe-inspiring plaza, including the Kremlin, St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin’s Mausoleum, The State Historical Museum and the golden onion domes of the beautifully restored Kazan Cathedral.

MICE cultural programme planners are strongly recommended to include at least two trips to Red Square – to catch the stunning colours of the domes and bright façades during daylight, and the unforgettable night-time illuminations.

The most famous site in Moscow, St Basil’s Cathedral, is often mistaken for the Kremlin itself and is undoubtedly the most photographed image of the city. Dating back to the 16th century, the Orthodox cathedral was built during the reign of Ivan the Terrible to celebrate the expansion of his empire, and its brightly decorated domes, shaped like a rising bonfire into the sky, are unique in world architecture.

Inside, conference delegates can explore a bewildering array of vivid icons, statues and beautifully frescoed walls.

The State Historical Museum, also on Red Square, is another must-see for business travellers to the city. With an astounding range of exhibits, the State Historical Museum showcases the relics of prehistoric tribes from the East European

moscow

“Delegates are advised to indulge in at least one decadent night at the Bolshoi Theatre, home of the impeccable Bolshoi Opera and Ballet.”

Plain, a Viking longboat salvaged from the River Volga, traditional Russian folk artefacts, and majestic paintings and sculptures collected by Peter the Great and the Romanovs.

Delegates with more modern tastes can enjoy the sensational displays at The New Tretyakov Gallery, which exhibits works by contemporary Russian artists as well as stunning murals by socialist realist and avant-garde painters, such as Kandinsky. The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, on the other hand, embraces the ancient and the modern in equal measure.

Frequently compared to the British Museum in London, the Pushkin houses an incredible assortment of objects from ancient Greek and Egyptian civilizations, and golden artefacts from the site of Troy, in addition to an extraordinary collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings by Van Gogh, Gauguin, Picasso, Matisse and Cezanne.

For music-loving MICE visitors, the Pushkin Museum also doubles up as the venue for an internationally renowned chamber music festival, Svyatoslav Richter’s December Nights. However, for the quintessential classical music experience in Moscow, delegates are advised to indulge in at least one decadent night at the Bolshoi Theatre, home of the impeccable Bolshoi Opera and Ballet.

From the heavenly high notes of classical opera to the more earthly delights of Moscow’s commercial paradise, the city boasts a range of exciting shopping opportunities. The wealthiest area, Rublevka, offers a remarkable assortment of upscale shops, bars and VIP nightclubs,

while the attractive Tretyakovsky Proyezd hosts high-end boutiques, including Tiffany & Co, Armani and Prada. The Arbat, on the other hand, is a delightfully bohemian shopping street and tourist attraction in its own right. Lined with beautiful historical buildings and filled with lively street artists and performers, The Arbat is famous for its avant-garde restaurants, stylish bars and boutiques.

The Bolshoi Theatre, home to the quintessential classical music experience

Best Conference Venue A short walk from The Arbat stands one of the world’s most impressive conference centres. The World Trade Centre Moscow is a purpose-built, congress centre that provides an ideal venue and all-round meetings solution for event organisers.

Fully renovated in 2008, the centre features four dedicated floors of meetings rooms, a multi-functional Congress Hall and 24 conference halls. With around 3,000 square metres of fully equipped exhibition space, a highly professional business team and the flexibility to host a range of events – from large-scale receptions, product launches and international conferences to intimate business meetings – the World Trade Centre has truly deserved to be recognised as The Best Conference Venue in Russia in this year’s MICE Report Awards.

For event organisers seeking a MICE destination with a huge variety of quality hotels to choose from, Moscow offers a premium selection. The elegant Marriott Grand Hotel near Red Square, for example, offers a range of superior guest rooms, a business centre and seven impressive function rooms, including a

The World Trade Centre – voted The Best Conference Venue in Russia in this year’s MICE Report Awards

Grand Hall that can accommodate 400 conference guests, or 300 at a stunning banquet.

Alternatively, the Radisson Royal Hotel Moscow is a top-class conference hotel that literally towers above all others. One of the city’s famous ‘Seven Sisters’ – a series of soaring Stalin-era skyscrapers that epitomise the architecture of Soviet Classicism – the Radisson is a five-star hotel with around 500 immaculate guest rooms and suites with matchless views over the Moskva River. In addition to the Royal Wellness Club, which offers a Jacuzzi, spa, swimming pool and massage rooms, this exceptional venue provides some of the finest cuisine in Moscow at its sophisticated restaurants.

This combination of excellent conference facilities, elegant design and first-class service has ensured the Radisson is the indisputable title-holder of The Best Conference Hotel in Russia in The MICE Report Awards 2012.

Moscow’s central Eurasian location ensures it is easy for international MICE visitors to access, and it is well served by an extensive transport network, including four international airports, nine international railway terminals, a futuristic monorail system and a beautifully ornate metro network. Even in the 21st century, Moscow is confirming the legend that all roads lead to The Third Rome. l

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moscow

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The World Trade Center Moscow

verlooking the luxuriant green treetops and immaculate lawns of Krasnaya Presnya Park, the World Trade Center is perfectly situated in an attractive area of Moscow. Close to the beautiful embankment of the River Moskva, this excellent venue is located in the vicinity of Moscow’s major business district, the Expocentr Fair Ground and the international business complex called Moscow City. A member of WTCA, ICCA and AIPC, the WTC is part of the largest business complex in Russia and has 30 years of outstanding experience serving the needs of international meetings and event organisers.

In 2012 alone, the venue hosted a huge variety of first-rate events, including the World Media Summit, the XVIII ANOC General Assembly and the 43rd WTCA General Assembly. From large congresses, high-profile product launches and extravagant banquets to small business meetings, the WTC has a proven track record of providing all-round solutions to every kind of event.

An eye-catching building, the WTC is a purpose-built, uniform architectural ensemble that comprises three office towers with a total area of almost 110,000 square metres. For delegates who want the convenience of staying in luxury accommodation near their event, the Crowne Plaza Moscow WTC Hotel provides 724 elegant guest rooms, which include 149 deluxe Premium Class rooms and spacious apartment hotels with wonderful views of the city.

In addition to the venue’s outstanding hotel accommodation, conference delegates are also assured of stylishly designed restaurants, bars and cafes, and mouth-watering menus. The WTC’s highly regarded expert chefs prepare an incomparable selection of cuisines on site, including delicious light snacks for cocktail functions and impressive feasts for banquets and gala dinners. Furthermore, the center provides two spacious foyers that are ideal settings for

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Winner of the Best Conference Venue in Russia in The MICE Report Awards 2012, Moscow’s World Trade Center is an internationally recognised brand that signifies quality and excellence.

Ed Carpenter explores the superior facilities of this first-class venue. welcome cocktails and coffee breaks, or eventopening ceremonies.

For MICE organisers seeking a fully equipped conference venue with friendly service and outstanding support, the WTC Congress Center is second to none. With a staggering 30 function halls and four floors of conference rooms that

offer seating from 10 to 1,500 delegates, this excellent venue is able to host events for up to 4,600 participants. For top-range expositions and trade fairs, the center also provides 3,000 square metres of dedicated exhibition space, which can comfortably cater for a full range of events, from small business showcases to large product launches.

The most capacious multipurpose columnfree room is the vast Congress Hall, which can accommodate 1,500 delegates in theatre-style seating or 1,000 guests at a sumptuous banquet.

With movable soundproof partitions, this hall can be divided into three separate sections that can each comfortably seat up to 450 participants.

All the Congress Center’s meetings and conference rooms are fully equipped with a superb selection of projectors, screens and plasma display panels, not to mention state-ofthe-art professional lighting equipment, including flood lights, theatre lighting, lighting effects and control consoles. As a purpose-built and recently expanded venue, the Congress Center offers the latest meetings technologies to ensure the seamless running of every presentation. The Bosch conference system, for example, provides unbeatable audio-visual, wireless and clear communications solutions for the most high profile of events, including the most up-to-date digital infrared simultaneous interpretation system.

In addition to these innovative technologies, the Congress Center is expertly supported by a first-rate and friendly team of professional specialists. Dedicated to organising the most successful events, the specialist support team provides creative and original ideas to MICE planners, while offering instant solutions to any problem. As a world-class venue with experience of hosting a vast array of international political, business and science events, Moscow’s World Trade Center has truly deserved to be recognised as The Best Conference Venue in Russia in The MICE Report Awards 2012. l

WTC Congress Center – so much to offer!

n attractive destination n downtown location n flexible, multi functional purpose built venue n recent major expansion n 30 function halls and conference rooms seating from 10 to 1,500 n professional advice and consultations of dedicated event coordinators 12, Krasnoprenenskaya nab., 123610, Moscow, Russia T + 7 (499) 253-11 40 E intercongress@wtcmoscow.ru www.wtcmoscow.ru

n on-site state-of-the-art conferencing equipment, ensuring full IT & A/V event support n video conferencing n business services n in-house catering for all events from a coffee break to a banquet n restaurants, bars, cafes n delegates’ accommodation in Crowne Plaza WTC Moscow Hotel

moscow

Radisson Royal Hotel Moscow Winner of the Best Conference Hotel in Russia in The MICE Report Awards 2012, The Radisson Royal Hotel in Moscow exudes premier style and presidential elegance. Neil Walden investigates the magnificent masterpiece of European architecture.

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hen the immense Moscow skyscrapers known as the ‘Seven Sisters’ – or ‘Stalin’s Skyscrapers’ – were erected in the middle of the 20th century, their appearance marked a bold new era in European architecture.

One of the magnificent Sisters, Hotel Ukrania, was the largest hotel on the continent in 1957, and amazed guests from all over the world with its splendid interiors and combination of Russian baroque and gothic architectural style. After large-scale restoration works, this landmark hotel opened its doors in April 2010 under a new name – the Radisson Royal Hotel, Moscow.

Situated on a picturesque curve of the legendary Moskva River, the scenic location of the Radisson Royal Hotel is one of the many assets that distinguish it above other five-star hotels in Russia’s capital. Conveniently sited at the crossroad of two of the city’s main avenues, Kutuzovsky Prospect and Novy Arbat, this superlative hotel is close to the historical centre of Moscow and the multiple attractions of the global megacity.

Furthermore, the Radisson’s proximity to the Moskva River’s attractive embankment provides MICE visitors with a unique opportunity to take a memorable boat trip into the centre of the capital.

With its own elegant fleet of seven white yacht restaurants that operate all year round, the hotel’s dining vessels offer two-hour river trips from the berth of the Radisson Royal Hotel. Complete with a banqueting service, multimedia facilities, two open decks, a saloon-restaurant and a dance floor, there is also the option of hiring these yachts for private and corporate events of up to 200 guests.

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As the largest hotel among all of Moscow’s five-star deluxe properties, the Radisson Royal Hotel offers 497 superb rooms and suites in ten different categories, plus 38 apart-hotel suites that are fully equipped with modern kitchen facilities and are perfect for long-term stay. The guest rooms range in size from the 25 square metres of the Classic Room, to the immense 370 square metres of the Presidential Suite.

The delectably stylish apart-hotel suites are situated on the 22nd to 28th floors of the Radisson. In addition to providing dramatic panoramic views over Moscow’s cityscape, these suites combine all the benefits of private living and the highest standards of hotel service.

Furthermore, the Radisson uses the world’s best and most trusted brands and high-end products to ensure that guests receive guaranteed standards of comfort. Everything from the furniture, accessories, bed linens and towels to cosmetics and toiletries are supplied by the finest brands, including Frette, Baker, Provasi, Armando Rho, Turri, Villeroy & Boch, Penhaligon’s and Etro.

Guests enjoy a complete 24-hour service and wide range of privileges, such as access to The Royal Wellness club, which boasts a 50-metre swimming pool, fully equipped gym, beauty parlour and spa, thermal baths, Jacuzzi and massage room. Incentive guests who bring families can take advantage of the children’s activity corner, while enjoying the Radisson’s huge variety of restaurants, such as Persian cuisine at the Farsi Restaurant, stylish menus at

the European Tattler Club, exclusive Italian dining at the Bono Restaurant, or delicious dishes at the main Veranda.

For event organisers seeking a historical location full of charisma, the Radisson Royal Hotel provides a matchless conference centre, perfect for business meetings, high-profile congresses or elegant receptions. The hotel is adorned with original paintings by Russian masters from the 20th century, a vivid collection of Soviet-era sculptures, an award-winning diorama of Moscow, and a spellbindingly picturesque ceiling painting that illuminates the central hall.

With a plethora of Russian masterpieces and finely crafted details, the Radisson certainly bestows prestige on every event. All areas of the hotel are beautifully finished with precious woods and natural stone, including Indian granite and noble Italian and Spanish marbles. The hotel’s conference and banqueting staff are specially trained in the highest international standards of service to guarantee the utmost success for any scale and type of event.

The excellent standards of this superb hotel have been rightly recognised in this year’s prominent MICE Report Awards, as the Radisson is awarded The Best Conference Hotel in Russia.

This eminent award comes on top of a string of other honours from the World Travel Awards, including Russia’s Leading Luxury Hotel in Russia in 2011 and 2012, Europe’s Leading Luxury Business Hotel 2011 and 2012, World’s Leading Luxury Business Hotel 2011, and Europe’s Leading Landmark Hotel 2012. Illuminated by such acclaim, the Radisson is undoubtedly a cutabove all others. l

hilton madrid airport

Hilton Madrid Airport Hilton Madrid Airport’s avant-garde design and high service standards have made it the first choice for both national and international business travellers. Cliff James investigates the exceptional charms of this award-winning hotel.

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enowned for its excellent service standards and stunning avant-garde design, Hilton Madrid Airport has become the first choice for international business travellers to Spain. Strategically located close to the main exhibition centres and the vibrant heart of the city, this elegant venue offers MICE visitors a superior range of amenities.

With a vast function area of 1,700 square metres, the Hotel Madrid Airport can comfortably accommodate meetings, conferences and conventions of all types and sizes. Video conference equipment, instant translation systems and Wi-Fi internet are just some of the latest technological innovations that equip the 15 working areas of this high-quality venue.

For larger events, the magnificent Isabela Ballroom provides more than 750 square metres of luxurious function space and can host up to 580 guests. The hotel is ingeniously designed so that each of the two towers can function separately, providing MICE delegates with their exclusive space and services, entirely independent from the rest of the hotel.

The hotel offers 284 spacious and modern rooms across its two towers. Each of the bedrooms has a designated working area

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equipped with the latest multimedia technology.

Business travellers who stay at the hotel’s executive rooms can enjoy the superior advantages of the executive lounge, which offers its own reception for check-in and check-out, refreshments throughout the day, computers with internet access and personalised service.

For guests who desire a soothing indulgence, Hilton Madrid Airport offers the celebrated Hilton Relaxation Rooms® – rooms designed in a way that the space, light and colours radiate peace and harmony. These

spacious rooms include a luxurious marble bathroom, containing a relaxing hydromassage bathtub and separate shower. For the last word in relaxation, the hotel also offers a state-of-the-art gym, equipped with Precor machines, personal trainer services, sauna and a hydrotherapy pool.

In the evening, the Ferrum Bar becomes one of the hotel’s main attractions, with its stylishly modern interior decoration, high quality hospitality and a range of exclusive speciality whiskeys.

With the airport conveniently close, the Hilton offers business travellers an inspired day package - ‘Meetings in Transit’ - which enables guests to hire function rooms for their meetings, lunch, Wi-Fi Internet and access to hotel’s superior leisure facilities. And, with a complimentary shuttle service to and from the International Airport of Madrid Barajas, Hilton Madrid Airport ensures that the experience of every guest is as satisfying and stress-free as possible. l

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imex frankfurt

IMEX Frankfurt celebrates its 10th Anniversary

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ontinuing strong interest from buyers across Europe and the emerging economies of Brazil, China and India is fuelling demand for places on the much sought-after buyer programme at IMEX in Frankfurt. Exhibitor numbers are set to exceed those of the 2011 show, and organisers have launched an exciting new approach to IMEX’s education programme.

As a result of a positive knock-on effect from IMEX America, Ray Bloom – IMEX Chairman – has confirmed that several new US intermediaries will also be bringing their key clients to the Frankfurt trade show for the first time. In spite of a challenging year for many European countries, demand from European buyers is also buoyant; more than 20 new hosted buyer groups have been added and the programme is set to beat all previous records.

Plans are also in place to attract 152 l theMICEreport

more corporate buyers to the show through an innovative Executive Meeting Forum for C-Level buyers, many of whom – although influential in buying and budgetary decisions – do not usually attend industry exhibitions and events.

Interest from exhibitors has been exceptionally healthy this year, particularly among the anticipated 50 hotel groups, boosted by larger stands from many of the world-leading brands, including Fairmont Hotels, Starwood and Kempinski. ATA Hotels is taking a stand for the first year, while Best Western is returning to the show with its own stand.

Demand for exhibition space has

“We plan to deliver an unforgettable Association Day to mark this landmark event in the IMEX calendar.”

Ray Bloom, IMEX Chairman

been extremely high from across the world, with a broad range of destinations increasing their presence at IMEX in Frankfurt, including Boston, Brazil, Costa Rica, Croatia, Moscow, Paris, Slovakia, Sri Lanka and Turkey. Additionally, Visit Pittsburgh makes a welcome return to the show.

100 seminars on offer More than 100 different seminars, workshops and learning opportunities will also be provided by the IMEX in Frankfurt’s education programme. A new ‘Visionary Events’ series will complement the 2012 education agenda, which includes marketing communication, Apps, health, sustainability and social media.

The impressive line-up of speakers at this year’s IMEX includes the prominent business consultant Martin Suiter, who will speak on: ‘Using Sport and Tourism to Push your Brand’; Michael Luehrs, Sustainability Services Manager at MCI, who will present: ‘Engaging Stakeholders for Change’; Charlie Banks of Positive Impact who will address: ‘The Business Case for Implementing Sustainability,’ and Johanna Fischer, Managing Director of tmf dialogmarketing GmbH, who will present: ‘Social Media in the Meetings Industry: What exactly do we need it for?’

In addition, David Bancroft-Turner, Managing Director of The Academy for Political Intelligence, will run a session on ‘Political Intelligence™ - How to use positive organisational politics to get

imex frankfurt

results’. The full education and seminar programme will be available online shortly.

An Association Day worth associating with Always a popular day in the IMEX calendar, the programme for IMEX Association Day 2012 has been entirely redesigned and promises expert speakers, insightful peer case studies, lively discussions and unrivalled networking opportunities.

The IMEX team has planned a raft of changes and developments, including the introduction of three new educational tracks. The tracks divide the day’s educational content into ‘operations’, ‘meetings’ and ‘executive’ categories, which will help to tailor the delegate experience and provide greater, more relevant seminar and round-table choices.

Taking place at the Congress Centre, Messe Frankfurt, on Monday 21st May (the day before the show opens), this annual and unique day of association education and networking has become a must-attend event for hundreds of meeting planners from around the globe.

Each year, almost 300 association professionals from more than 30 countries attend the IMEX Association Day in Frankfurt, and organisers expect to see the highest turnout ever in 2012.

This year, IMEX will also use a number of new methods to invite delegates to shape the agenda for the day and to boost involvement, ensuring that the experience meets its objectives on engagement and interaction. Picking

“Each year, almost 300 association professionals from more than 30 countries attend the IMEX Association Day in Frankfurt, and organisers expect to see the highest turnout ever in 2012.” up on key issues for 2012, seminars include: ‘Evolving Membership Models’ and ‘Entering New Markets – The Key to Success’. Another hot topic for many associations faced with financial planning challenges will be ‘Generating New Revenues: what’s working and why.’

Co-organisers of the day, ICCA, will also run a ‘deep dive’ session and consultation on ‘The Art and Science of Successful Congress Bids’. In addition, there will be a debate on ‘Online Learning: the Pros and Cons’, which will address another hot topic that has both detractors and supporters in the association sector.

Also new this year will be a series of ‘Ask the Expert’ sessions, which will allow delegates to attend one-on-one clinics with an industry expert. These have been developed as a direct result of previous delegates requesting a chance to have in-depth coaching on specific issues they face in their roles as meeting planners.

As usual, this day of intense education will close with a networking reception that is open to IMEX in Frankfurt exhibitors, partners and suppliers. The evening

traditionally attracts up to 900 guests and has become the unofficial opening event of the show; as such, it sets the tone for the following three days of business. The networking reception will be held at the distinguished Westin Hotel.

Looking ahead to what he predicts will be yet another well-attended and received Association Day, Ray Bloom, IMEX Chairman, says: “We plan to deliver an unforgettable Association Day to mark this landmark event in the IMEX calendar.

Since the first ever IMEX Association Day, these events have grown in popularity, with delegate numbers increasing each year. Encouragingly, trends suggest that budgets within the associations sector have stabilised, with some even increasing.

“One point worth noting, however, is that whilst this is a robust industry, new challenges are constantly emerging and it is important for association meeting planners to learn how to adapt to these developments.” n

The tenth IMEX in Frankfurt will take place 22 -24 May at Messe Frankfurt.

For further information please visit www.imex-frankfurt.com

theMICEreport l 153

Europe’s main event for travel buyers & meetings planners to source new suppliers, update their knowledge and network with peers.

HIGHLIGHTS for 2013 ● Evaluate thousands of products from over 200 leading brands and innovative travel suppliers ● Update your knowledge across 60 thought-provoking and free to attend conference sessions ● Network with & learn from over 6,000 European travel professionals

Register for Free entry at www.businesstravelshow.com/MICE Main Show Sponsor:

Official Partners:

Partners & Sponsors:

the business travel show

The Business Travel Show As more companies recognise the importance of developing strategic meetings management policies, the necessity of being well versed in meeting innovations is increasingly essential. With a vast range of business travel products, services and solutions, the 2013 Business Travel Show provides all the options.

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usiness practices are evolving, according to groundbreaking new evidence, as more business travel managers are taking charge of their company’s meetings, conferences and incentive portfolios. The new annual travel buyer research, collated by the Business Travel Show, suggests that 55 percent of senior business travel buyers and procurement managers are increasingly responsible for MICE-related issues in their role. This contrasts considerably with the previous year’s research, which suggests that only 40 percent of buyers looked after MICE matters. Evidently, the trend for converging the two categories is undisputedly on the rise.

Despite this evidence, just over a third of buyers (36 percent) have a strategic meetings management policy (SMMP) in place, whereas 34 percent do not. Furthermore, one quarter of buyers are planning to introduce such a policy – a figure that has not changed since 2011.

Worryingly, five percent were simply not aware if their company even had a SMMP. For companies seeking to develop a robust SMMP and explore all the options, the Business Travel Show is a must-attend event. Taking place in London from 5th to 6th February 2013, this exceptional show is Europe’s key exhibition and conference for corporate travel buyers, managers and bookers. An excellent occasion to source suppliers, learn the latest information and network with professionals, the Business

Travel Show showcases literally thousands of business travel products and services from more than 200 suppliers. A high-quality, free-to-attend and thought provoking conference, the show also provides an unrivalled programme of peer-to-peer networking opportunities and social events.

This essential event has provided an impressive MICE offering for business travel buyers and procurement managers for the past five years – and 2013 is no different. The conference programme offers two valuable meetings masterclasses. The first, ‘Getting Started on a Strategic Meetings Management Programme’, is designed to help buyers get a strategic grip on meetings buying and is presented by the highly respected Director of Corvine Consulting, Sarah Firth. The second highly recommended master-class, ‘Quick Wins in Meetings Management’, is presented

by Marcel Shouted and constructively guides buyers through the early stages of adopting and introducing a SMMP. Speaking about the need for companies to develop a SMMP, the Event Director of the Business Travel Show, David Chapple, says many companies are still lagging behind. “Despite being hailed as the next big thing for years, many companies – as we have proved with our research – are finding it hard to take the first steps towards the SMMP goal,” David explains. “Gathering data and changing internal behaviour can be a longwinded process. These sessions help buyers to understand the first steps they should take, and

what low-hanging fruit they can pluck to start realising instant gains, while also looking to the long term.”

In addition to the conference, the show also enables buyers to encounter the most innovative business travel products, services and solutions from more than 200 suppliers, including airlines, hotels and serviced apartments, ground transportation, meeting venues, hotel and rail booking agents, travel management companies and technology providers. They can also network and negotiate with big brands, such as Virgin Atlantic Airways, Hilton Hotels, Premier Inn, Travelodge, American Express, Best Western Hotels, Japan Airlines and SIXT, as well as a huge assortment of exciting start-ups and growing enterprises.

Networking is a particularly important theme of the Business Travel Show, and the 2013 event will host even more networking and social events for buyers and suppliers to connect. This year’s priceless networking opportunities include the Agents and Hosted Buyers Lounges, Cellars in the Sky wine-tastings, Networking and Discovery Forums and after-show drinks on Tuesday 5th February at the Central Café.

For buyers seeking to take advantage of these invaluable opportunities, visitor registration is open now at www.businesstravelshow.com and pre-registering will ensure attendees are given fast-track access, saving a £30 entry fee on the door. l

“Many companies are finding it hard to take the first steps towards the SMMP goal” David Chapple Event Director of the Business Travel Show

theMICEreport l 155

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MILAN theMICEreport

Awards 2012 Best Luxury Business Hotel: Italy

Ho t e

l P r i n c i p e d i S a vo i a

A Milanese Masterpiece R

A work of art in the ultimate city of fashion, the elegant Hotel Principe di Savoia blends first-class meeting facilities with world-class service. Peter Morrin visits the celebrated conference hotel in the heart of Milan that exceeds all expectations.

ecognised the world over as the fashion capital of Europe, stylish Milan is also unquestionably the vibrant business heart of Italy. Staging a successful event in this city requires a delicate balance between traditional service and innovative expertise, which is why the Hotel Principe di Savoia – located in the centre of this dynamic destination – has been the finest event venue in Milan since 1927.

For almost a century, international guests and delegates have enjoyed the comfort, convenience and exceptional service for which the Principe is renowned.

With exquisite banqueting facilities and 13 exclusive event spaces, the Principe has proved itself time and again as the ideal venue for both corporate events and VIP social gatherings.

Boasting the largest meeting spaces of any five-star hotel in Milan, the Principe can accommodate up to 1000 guests across 7500 square feet. All the conference areas are equipped with the most advanced audio-visual technology, including Wi-Fi internet access and a Creston-integrated system control in the Sala Cristalli, where a single command on the colour LCD touch-screen panel is all a key note speaker needs to control their presentation.

A highly qualified team of professional staff is available to support event organisers from the planning stage right through to successful delivery.

Furthermore, the Principe’s world-class banquets are catered for by a coterie of expert chefs, who are on hand to prepare a range of exquisitely traditional regional and international dishes and kosher meals. With an attention to detail and quality of service that remains consistently excellent, cuisine at the Principe never fails to

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impress, regardless of the size of the event or the number of guests.

Dominating the Piazza della Republicca, the Hotel Principe di Savoia is neo-classical masterpiece that represents the true spirit of Milan. It has served as the natural home-fromhome for international travellers, the beau monde and cosmopolitan society since the roaring 1920s, and has recently been fully renovated to meet the needs of the modern business traveller. With newly refurbished rooms and suites, the Principe creates a perfect balance between the classically elegant and innovative styles that embody the spirit of Milan.

The new Ambassador, Principe and Imperial Suites, for example, are a perfect blend of traditional Milanese class and high technology. Featuring a chic new bar by Thierry

Despont, unique furniture and fine masterpieces that have been expressly designed for the hotel, the Principe is unquestionably the pearl of Milan. On the penthouse floor, the internationally renowned Presidential Suite is a 500 square metre space of pure luxury. Situated on the rooftop, the Suite features a variety of selective amenities, including a private swimming pool, sauna, Turkish bath and Jacuzzi.

On the ground floor, guests can relax and enjoy the fashionable Il Salotto meeting space, where the well-heeled Milanese and cosmopolitan visitors assemble to savour a delicious aperitif, tea or light snack, surrounded by sumptuous Italian art and designer furniture. Classic cocktails are served at the newly inaugurated Principe Bar, where guests can enjoy tasteful music while absorbing the inimitable panache of this flawless city.

The Principe’s Executive Chef – Fabrizio Cadei – designs and delivers a mouth-watering array of outstanding dishes at the five-star Acanto Restaurant. Meanwhile the hotel’s Club 10 Fitness and Beauty Centre offers a perfect sanctuary of blissful relaxation and total wellbeing for business and incentive travellers. In addition to the expertly renovated facilities, luxurious suites and state-ofthe-art conference amenities, the world-renowned Hotel Principe di Savoia surpasses itself with an uncompromising level of personal attention and exceptional service. l Hotel Principe di Savoia l Piazza della Repubblica 17 l 20124 Milan, Italy l hotelprincipedisavoia.com

aviation

• EccElsa aviation opEratEs a modErn and comfortablE tErminal ExclusivEly dEdicatEd to thE privatE aviation.

• a dEpEndablE and commitEd to sErvicE tEam is rEady to providE you with all thE rEquirEd sErvicEs 24h, 7 days a wEEk

• a nEw and modErn marina locatEd only thrEE minutEs away makEs EccElsa thE idEal starting point for a boating holiday in thE mEditErranEan.

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