May 2007

Google your flight

F.Y.I. Hotel cancellations can be costly >

While great deals can be found through booking hotel rooms online, you could lose out on some extra cash if you wind up cancelling your reservation.

Nowadays there’s a price to pay for cancellation, whether you booked your room on the phone using the hotel’s reservation line or their website. The same could be said if the reservation was made with Expedia or Travelocity.

Although sites like Hotwire and Priceline allows you to name the price that fits your budget, no refund is offered for a cancellation.

Policies vary depending on the hotel, but for those who book through Internet-only rates, only a partial refund at best can be expected.

However, if you pay a little more for the same room you purchased through a deal, you will have some leeway says Henry Harteveldt, senior analyst for travel research firm Forrestor Research. The cost for what amounts to cancellation insurance is approximately US$20.

But what to do if matters like a cancelled flight prevent you from getting to your hotel room? Harteveldt suggests making a phone call. If you reserved your room using the hotel’s site, call their toll-free line. If you booked using Expedia or Priceline, they should be the first ones you contact.

Ever rush to the airport only to find out your flight’s been cancelled? If you’re equipped with your cell phone and text Google using the code 466453, followed by an abbreviation of the airline you’re using (i.e. AA for American Airlines) and your flight number, you can find out the status of your flight. A text message that informs you of any changes in the departure and arrival times will show up on your phone.

Google has teamed up with flightstats.com to provide this free text-messaging service that not only offers your flight status but other helpful things like the airline’s contact information. Regular text messaging charges apply.

The service offers information only on flights that are leaving or going into the United States.

For more information on the SMS services offered by Google, visit www.google.com/sms.

Watch what you drink and eat While many people wanting to lose weight pay more attention to what they eat rather then what they drink, this is an oversight. Over 20 percent of calories are from liquids. Some of those calories come from healthy sources that provide your body with vitamins and calcium, like juice and milk. But others are from alcohol or soda and are empty calories, providing your body with few or no nutrients.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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THE INTERNATIONAL EDITION

Ed. Note

Canada has plenty of events As we mention in our page one article, there are so many professional industry-related conferences to attend that it can be difficult deciding which one to go to. Because the United States is a rather large neighbour containing the head offices of many organizations, including ISES, MPI, NBTA and PCMA, it is easy to understand why so many events take place down south.

But if we look in our own backyard there are numerous meeting and events in our own country that should be given their due.

Just a few months ago, the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) held their 51st Annual General Meeting in Toronto, the first time it has ever been held outside the U.S. By all accounts, Canada’s largest city did an exceptional job as the host.

Toronto was also the site of the recent National Business Travel Association (NBTA) meeting which saw more than 150 corporate travel professionals gather for two days of networking and education.

From July 28-31, Montreal will be the location for the MPI World Education Congress for which they are forecasting record attendance. And the International Special Events Society (ISES) will also be in Montreal this summer from August 16-18 for their Eventworld 2007.

So if you are tired of the same old tradeshow, this year has so far been a good one to discover new and exciting ones. And you know what they say – a change is as good as a rest and it will be difficult to go back to the same old show.

Leo Gervais

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A SSOCIATE E DITORS G RAPHIC A RTIST S ALES C IRCULATION C ONTRIBUTORS

Leo Gervais lgervais@theplanner.ca Camille Lay clay@theplanner.ca Jyl Ashton Cunningham jashton@theplanner.ca Matt Riopel James Paulson jpaulson@theplanner.ca Tania Joanis, Patricia Lemus Mike Auctor, Vanessa Baudry, Anne Biarritz, Jim Clemmer, Sandy Biback, Savika Fowsar, Shayne McCool, Lindsay Mills, Stacey Robinson, Tracy Racz, Diane Seguin, Barry Siskind, Ruby Zinsmeister

2105 de la Montagne, suite 100 Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Z8 Telephone: (514) 849-6841 ext. 333 Fax: (514) 284-2282 We welcome your comments: info@theplanner.ca The Planner is a monthly publication distributed to professional meeting and event planners across Canada.

The Planner uses 30% recycled post-consumer paper.

Poste-publication No. 40934013 4

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In this Issue 8 The benefits of membership

> There are many associations worth joining as a meeting planner, but the first thing to do is decide how much time you have and why you want to join.

12 Planner survey > This month’s planner survey deals with hotels, specifically 24-hour room rentals, late check-outs and charging for local telephone calls. The results will get some tongues wagging for sure...

14 Videoconferencing > Fed up with long flights, expensive hotel rooms and time-wasting meetings in far away places? Then it is probably time to consider videoconferencing as a possible solution to your problems.

15 PowerPoint powerless? > Ever been at a meeting and succumbed to “death by PowerPoint?” There’s probably not a businessperson alive who hasn’t seen or used this popular program, but is it still relevant as a business tool? Stacey Robinson givers her take on the software.

16 Montreal in focus > Once known as the biggest metropolis in Canada, the second-largest Frenchspeaking city in the world still offers a plethora of venues, restaurants and attractions to satisfy the palate of any planner.

24 Western venues > We often hear about Toronto and Montreal as cities with great venues, but many of our readers weighed in and told us about some fabulous places in Western Canada not to be missed when booking events.

26 Join IMPAC! > If you are a Canadian independent meeting planner, there is probably no better association for you than IMPAC. Just the networking opportunities and business contacts alone are worth becoming a member.

May 07

What do I plan to get out of this?

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

She would always follow that up with, “If you’re going to pay for something, make sure you get your money’s worth.” The lesson being that while conferences are expensive, they are usually worth every penny… and often more.

Now, I know what you are thinking – of course he is going to say that because he is the Chair of Meeting Professionals International. But that has been my philosophy for years. And, now as Chair of MPI and seeing all the different conferences I have of late, I am even more committed to that philosophy.

So when you attend a conference, do just that – attend the conference. So often we see people going to conferences focused on “hopefully meeting someone important” or “attending a seminar that might prove to be enlightening” or “maybe learning something new through benchmarking the successes of other suppliers and / or planners.”

Well, ladies and gentlemen, we all know that “hope is not a business strategy.” Attending conferences successfully is a no-chance event. Attending conferences is all about personal accountability. While planning your trip to the conference, you must ask yourself, “What do I plan to get out of this?” That’s right – take it back to ROO/ROI (Return on Objective and Return on Investment). Conferences can and should be a lot of fun when you plan in advance and consider the following: Who you will attend the conference with… and why.

What seminars you will attend… and why.

Who you need to meet… and why.

Who needs to meet you… and why.

If you don’t address these issues and answer these questions prior to putting pencil to registration paper (or digital

signatures to electronic forms) don’t even plan on going to the conference.

All of this applies even more to trade shows. I have heard salespeople tell me that a trade show was no good for a number of reasons: they didn’t get the attendees, they didn’t get the turn out, they didn’t get the response and any other number of excuses why someone else didn’t deliver.

Conversely, even during the “worst” of trade shows, I’ve seen people have a great event because they planned for success. They did this by contacting meeting planners in advance, letting them know where they were going to be, and letting them know the value of stopping by their booth. By developing an eager want in the planner’s mind, that planner will go out of their way during the trade show to find your booth. For a testimonial, you need look no further than Toronto… They get it and are certainly worth emulating and benchmarking.

So trade shows, conferences and congresses can, and should be, fun. The fun part is in celebrating the effort, the planning and the success as well as meeting those people you want to meet or contacting those people who are going to make a difference in your life, your business and your future.

And to answer my initial question, “Which conference or congress should I attend?” The answer is any MPI event, of course. Would you expect me to say anything else?

It will just keep getting better – it just takes time and effort to make it so.

“... hope is not a business strategy.”

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••• Mark Andrew is chairman of MPI's International Board of Directors. He can be reached at mark.andrew@andrewhospitality.com.

MPI's World Education Congress will be held in Montreal, Quebec from July 28-31. For more info, visit www.mpiweb.org.

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May 07

There are many benefits of association membership

BY SANDY BIBACK, CMP, CMM

IMPAC, MPI, SITE, PCMA, ISES – these are just a few of the acronyms for associations in our industry. How do you decide which to belong to?

Most people join associations to network, to improve their knowledge in their field and yes, to get business and this has been proven time and time again. According to a recent IMPAC (Independent Meeting Planners Association of Canada Inc.) survey, here are the main reasons people join IMPAC, listed in descending order: 1. professional development (read education) 2. build relationships with planners and suppliers (read networking) 3. referrals (read get business) 4. benefits (read medical, business discounts, etc.)

So, whether it’s a business networking group (Board of Trade anyone?) or a specific industry related association, people all want basically the same things.

It’s all about making a choice In my 25+ years in this business I have been or am a member of several business networking groups, including MPI (Meeting Professionals International), PCMA (Professional Convention Management Association) and IMPAC. I leave associations because they no longer provide for my needs (yes, it is all about me in this case!). It is about how I choose to spend my hard earned dollars to improve my knowledge and stay in the loop. Once I stop seeing a return on my investment – time and money – I leave. And I’ve been a member of some organizations for 10+ years, so they must be doing something right.

Now, let’s turn the focus away from me. I decided to go out to the industry and through two small surveys, I asked people why they joined or stayed members of various associations.

One is a US-based Listserv (though members are worldwide) and the other is a Canadian national organization.

Here’s what some people said: “The ability to ask for help.” Joan Moyer, ITPX (sounds like networking to me) “…meet your peers, try a new skill, fail without getting fired, assume leadership positions and give back…”

Rosemary Deitzer, CAP, Association & Meeting Services (sounds like networking, education and leadership to me) 8

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Networking is one great reason to join an association.

“For client leads.” Denise McGinn, CAE, Association Guidance (sounds like finding clients to me) “My membership with IMPAC helped me secure one of my largest accounts… and build a network of planners that I can count on to secure large scale events.”

Johanna Roach, Knowledge Bridge Inc. (wow—that’s networking and new clients all in one!)

“It inspired, me, as a student, to attain a certain level of professionalism.” Morgan Steele (let’s not forget about the legacy associations can provide to students.)

“You can reach out to fellow professionals for help in finding what you need in order to better service your clients.” Barb Sauder, Eclectic Events (networking in a non-competitive environment, how cool!)

Something that came up time and time again was the need to give back. How true. As association members, we get all the things listed above – so we need to give back, senior members of the industry in particular. And you know what? This is another benefit – for me – of belonging. I get to watch the newbie blossom and mature and become a professional within our industry because I and many others like me, gave them nurturing. I suppose in the end, for me, that’s the most gratifying benefit I receive from being an active member of an association.

Why do you belong? Ponder it. What do you give back? Ponder it.

Sandy Biback, CMP CMM, principal, Imagination+Meeting Planners Inc. has over 25 years industry experience. She is a meeting consultant, an educator and has been involved with APEX for 5 years.

She was co-chair of the ESG panel and is currently a member of the Glossary review committee. She can be reached via E-mail at: biback@imaginationmeetings.com.

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May 07

Join ISES!

Sudoku The object of the game: Fill each square with a number from 1 to 9 so that every number appears only once in each row, column and cell.

LEVEL: EASY

Solution, page 25.

LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE

Solution, page 25.

very Industry has its own industry association and for the event industry it is the International Special Event Society (ISES).

ISES was founded in 1987 with the purpose in mind of fostering enlightened performance through education while promoting ethical conduct.

Since 1987, ISES's worldwide membership has grown to involve over 4,000 members active in 37 Chapters throughout the world.

Membership brings together professionals from a variety of special events disciplines including caterers, meeting planners, decorators, event planners, audiovisual technicians, party and convention coordinators, educators, journalists, hotel sales managers and many more.

ISES offers its members many advantages, from networking to the sense that they are a bigger part of their industry.

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Benefits of Membership in ISES include: 1. Education through local meetings and events plus two international meetings per year - The Special Event and ISES EventWorld; 2. Discounts at all ISES meetings and events, and at other selected industry trade shows and conferences; 3. An opportunity to earn Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP) designation; 4. Preferred Insurance Rates for all types of insurance including Errors & Omissions, General Liability, Group Health and Dental, and Event Cancellation...and more!

5. Member-to-Member discounts and special offers; 6. A listing in the ISES Canada and ISES Worldwide Resource Directory; 7. A listing in the ISES Canada and ISES Worldwide online directories; 8. Local Chapter Updates and other regular communication; 9. Free ISES Worldwide publications: EventWorld and Special Events magazine, and ISES Canada publication; 10. An opportunity to raise your profile in the industry by serving on ISES Committees or on the Board of Directors; 11. Use of the ISES logo on your corporate publications and materials, which displays a level of professionalism to your clients; 12. An active support system promoting your growth in the special events industry.

SOME SUDOKU RESOURCES ON THE WEB: www.websudoku.com www.sudoweb.com www.dailysudoku.com www.sudokupuzz.com 10

BY DIANE SEGUIN

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May 07

Eventworld 2007 will be held in Montreal from August 16-18 Every year, ISES hosts the Eventworld Conference and, for the first time ever, we are very proud to say it is not only in Canada, but in our very own Montreal!

ISES Eventworld 2007 is the premier continuing education event for the special events industry. This prestigious international conference is a must for all event professionals. In today's competitive and dynamic environment, many professionals are looking for ways to be a step ahead of their competitors. ISES Eventworld 2007 has the tools to help you stay ahead!

ISES Eventworld 2007 An Institute for Professional Development August 16-18, 2007 Fairmont – The Queen Elizabeth Montreal, Quebec, Canada ISES Canada has Chapters in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and the Montreal Chapter is in formation with Eventworld being held in Montreal. The Montreal ‘chapter in formation’ is looking forward to becoming a full Chapter in the ISES family. To find out more or to join ISES Montreal, contact me at the e-mail below.

Diane Seguin works for Platinum Wedding Services. She can be reached at: info@platinumweddingplanning.com.

On the Web: www.isesmontreal.com

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On the Web: www.theplanner.ca

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Should hotel rooms be rented on a 24-hour basis?

Yes: 66% No: 34% hile at a meeting recently, I was reminded by the speaker of the importance of being different to prosper in this ever increasingly competitive market.

I’m always amazed at how hotels all do the same thing: they all promise the best beds (which should be a given anyway, when you think about it, after all they are renting a bedroom!) They promise a good shower, again a given. Now, wouldn’t a hotel really be different if they adopted practices based on the results of this survey? Imagine a hotel that would charge on a 24h-basis – wouldn’t that be a pleasant change? Check-in at 18h check-out by 18h.

All it would require on their part would be to juggle their labour a bit. Imagine a hotel that went even further and said they will charge you so much for 12 hours, 18, 24, 36, etc. Wow! Now THAT would be different. I can’t even fathom a hotel trying that, not being full all the time. If you have ideas or suggestions on this or other subjects let us know.

Leo Gervais

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Presently some hotels charge more when you ask for a late check-out. Do you feel they should give a rebate if you check-out early?

Yes: 56% No: 44% Do you feel hotels should still charge for local telephone calls?

Yes: 2% No: 98% Ed. Note: We did a quick and informal survey of several Canadian hotels and discovered that the most expensive hotels for local calls are in Toronto and Ottawa at $1.60 per call. Calgary and Montreal had most at $1 and Vancouver was $0.50. The hotels we contacted in Winnipeg and Halifax didn’t charge anything.

!

Jargon Buster Techno babble demystified sponsored by Avtec Professional A/V Services

What is YouTube?

YOUTUBE: YouTube is a popular free video sharing website which lets users upload, view, and share video clips. Videos can be rated; the average rating and the number of times a video has been watched are both published.

Founded in February 2005 by three former employees of PayPal, the San Bruno-based service utilizes Adobe Flash technology to display video. The wide variety of site content includes movie and TV clips and music videos, as well as amateur content such as videoblogging and short original videos. Currently staffed by 67 employees, the company was named TIME magazine's “Invention of the Year” for 2006. In October 2006, Google Inc. announced that it had reached a deal to acquire the company for U.S. $1.65 billion in Google's stock. The deal closed on November 13, 2006.

SOURCE: WIKIPEDIA

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May 07

Halifax gears up for busy season

BY LINDSAY MILLS

With the Easter snow behind us and a hint of summer in the air, Halifax is launching into one of the busiest conference and event seasons of the year.

Those planning meetings in Halifax in May, 2007 may want to encourage attendees to take in the World Indoor Lacrosse Championships taking place at the Metro Centre, May 14-20. This world-class event will see teams from eight countries competing for dominance. This event does a terrific job of showcasing the city’s infrastructure to host major international sporting events.

Planners considering June should plan on incorporating the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo into the agenda. The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo is a military and civilian extravaganza featuring more than 2,000 International and Canadian performers. It is presented each year at the Halifax Metro Centre and draws an audience of over 60,000 people during its annual run. Often referred to as “Canada's best kept secret,” the Tattoo is the world’s largest annual indoor show. Its unique combination of music, dance, drama, gymnastics, comedy, military displays, competitions and much more continue to thrill audiences year after year.

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Conference planners can combine a theme dinner at the World Trade and Convention Centre (attached to the Metro Centre) with a VIP block of seats for the performance. Smaller groups might consider renting an exclusive skybox where food and beverage service can be offered for groups from 12 – 40 enjoying the show.

On the Web: www.nstattoo.ca.

Destination Halifax, the city’s tourism marketing agency, has recently launched a new publication. Titled Set Sail for Halifax – Charting your Course, this workbook-style manual is a perfect tool for an association or corporate executive who wishes to host a conference or meeting in Halifax but does not know where to start. It offers advice on everything from venue selection and budgeting, to room set ups, menu planning and gratuities. Destination Halifax also offers an online RFP and Convention Service Request process to save planners time. They can send your request for proposal to suppliers that meet your specific requirements, who then forward quotes directly to you for fast and convenient follow up.

On the Web: www.destinationhalifax.com.

Lindsay Mills is an event manager for Agenda Managers Inc. Visit them at : www.agendamanagers.com.

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Videoconferencing is a great way to do business without being there

BY SHAYNE MCCOOL

average speed is 3 lines at 384 kilobits/sec. Be aware the speed will also factor into cost for long distance. For ideoconferencing has existed in some form since example, a one line call from Montreal to Paris is $18 the invention of television. High-quality video per hour while a three line call is $54 per hour. I rent streaming came about in the 1980s with the our videoconference room for a minimum two-hour advent of digital video and the use of ISDN (Integrated charge of $250. The room rental and long distance fees Services Digital Network) lines. Finally, in the 1990s, IP- should be your only cost. If you are considering purbased (Internet Protocol) videoconferencing became chasing the equipment needed for a videoconference possible and more efficient video compression tech- center you should calculate $20,000 for the necessary nologies were developed, allowing people to use desk- equipment. You will also need a location, furniture and top or personal computers. ISDN lines use combined the ability to offer services to your client such as telephone lines to Internet access transmit video and other audioimages. I prefer visual aids. this technology to Our most comusing the Internet mon clientele are for several realawyers recording sons: ISDN allows depositions, job a private signal. interviews and The Internet is standard corporate open to everyone m e e t i n g s . and if confidenTherefore, I usualtially is an issue it ly require one-oncannot be guaranone site setup with teed. Also, in my few additional experience, the requirements. You Internet is not as may, however, dependable. Using connect to multia secure digital ple sites at the video signal offers Videoconferencing is a cost-effective and productive way to hold a meeting. same time or intea better connecgrate PowerPoint tion success rate. presentations and other third party applications.

The type of connection you will be using is the most It is a recent and expanding technology which allows important aspect when planning a videoconference as quick access to meetings on short notice, reduces travyou will have to arrange two locations with the same el cost and allows for easier planning. Have a precontechnology. You cannot videoconference an ISDN line ference without having to go to the site or use it as a with someone using IP because both sites must have starting point to plan a larger meeting. It has further compatible technology. Another factor to consider is implications in the world of medicine and education there may be a difference in time zones. Most impor- allowing remote communities access to otherwise fortantly, always schedule a connection test. While you midable services. may be saving thousands of dollars in travel fees by What was once the world of George and Judy Jetson choosing a videoconference it is still a relatively costly is here today and growing with the future. technology and instantaneous transmission of high- Videoconferencing is a great technology – use it.

••• quality video is complicated. Don't take it for granted.

Shayne McCool is the Operations Manager for Videoconferencing A final technical matter to be aware of when using ISDN is your speed or bit rate. The lowest quality is one for Avtec Professional Audio-Visual Services. He can be reached at line at a speed of 128 kilobits/sec. In my experience the (514) 848-9542 ext. 317 or through the Avtec Web site: www.avtec.ca.

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May 07

Does PowerPoint still have power?

BY STACEY ROBINSON n 1984, Microsoft created PowerPoint, the most popular and all-encompassing computer presentation software program on the planet. Most of you have either had the pleasure of creating your own clip artladen presentations with PowerPoint or have sat in front of somebody else projecting his/her presentation from a laptop computer in a semi-darkened room.

But is there such a thing as PowerPoint overkill?

From coast to coast, audiences are nodding off in record number. Those who stay awake often look as excited as watching their neighbors’ family vacation slide show – some wag coined the term for the viewing of bad presentations as “death by PowerPoint.”

Do we rely on PowerPoint now because it’s an effective tool and actually improves the communication and retention of information, or do we depend on it simply because we're too lazy or unimaginative to express ourselves in any other way?

As with most technologies, PowerPoint can be properly used or abused. Here are some tips for maximizing its use and minimizing the abuses: Speaker support. Use PowerPoint only to support your talk. It should never stand alone. The main focus should be on the podium, not on the screen. Don’t let the technology become a crutch. Your main goal is always to connect with the audience.

Leave the special effects in Hollywood. Depending

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on the type of presentation, animation should be used sparingly, if at all. Too much pizazz will actually detract from the message you're trying to convey. An over-done presentation may even intimidate your audience.

Less is more. Don’t try to jam too much information into one visual. A good rule of thumb is to limit each slide to three or four bullet points or lines of text. If you want to share complex or detailed data, do it with handouts.

Always have a backup.

Computers sometimes fail and you can risk losing hours and hours of work.

Always have a backup, such as a USB drive or CDROM. It’s also wise to have your script on paper with numbered pages.

Know your audience. Remember that the presentation is for them, not you. If you need to deviate from your script to address the needs of your audience, then do it.

Just because you have your PowerPoint presentation all prepared doesn't mean you can’t ad-lib here and there.

Practice, practice, practice! Spend as much – or more – time working on your talk as you do on your PowerPoint visuals. This will help your presentation flow when it’s your time to shine.

PowerPoint has a lot to offer its many users and is constantly being upgraded to meet our needs. Be creative and use the program to add value to your presentation. It’s all about the audience and their attention should always be focused on YOU. Stacey Robinson is a graphic designer in Toronto. She can be contacted at: stacer12@hotmail.com.

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Montreal: A unique city for planners

BY JYL ASHTON CUNNINGHAM

Getting to Montreal is easy

ecently I asked a number of people if they could describe Montreal using just one word. As each started to think hard about which adjective they would choose, it was interesting to watch their facial expressions change with enthusiasm as they recaptured memories from past Montreal visits, which would help them in their task.

One by one they began to sound out potentials, and before long became pretty animated about how best to capture the essence, spirit and cosmopolitan charm of such a vibrant city. The end result was that not one person truly felt able to describe Montreal as asked, and the consensus was that it was an impossible task.

What brings groups to Montreal? Besides being one of the most beautiful cities in Canada, the downtown core is a perfect balance of live/work, with great care having been taken over the last few years to maintain that balance and preserve as much heritage as possible.

Architectural awards have been bestowed on conversions such as the Alcan Building on Sherbrooke Street, where the new building seamlessly combines with the original façade. Old Montreal is a treat to walk through with its cobbled streets, elegant hotels and eclectic restaurants. And there lies one of the keys of Montreal being such a popular destination: Everything is in walking or wheeling distance and free time can be utilized to maximum effect with minimum effort.

The biggest challenge faced by planners is how to fit in all the options open to them, at any time of year.

Tourisme Montreal is an excellent resource and a good place to start, as they have an enthusiastic and incredibly hard-working team, all there to make sure that every event is a success and guaranteed to bring repeat business. It is impossible to think of Tourisme Montreal without picturing the ruby red kiss planted provocatively on their marketing brochures and advertising material.

On a recent FAM trip to Montreal, Donna Murray, Tourisme Montreal's own event planner, was deemed to be the best in the business for the smorgasbord of entertainment and culinary delights that she had coordinated for the guests.

Getting to Montreal is very simple: Via Rail operates an express and regular service daily from Toronto, Ottawa and Quebec City. At press time there is a seat sale of $59 one way between Toronto and Montreal, which is an excellent deal.

For air travel Canadian (Porter, WestJet and Air Canada), U.S. and international carriers fly direct into Pierre Elliott Trudeau (formerly Dorval) Airport daily or weekly. Check air carrier websites often for deals.

There are two major convention centres in central Montreal, the Palais des Congrès and Place Bonaventure. Palais des Congrès is a huge, recently renovated building on the border of downtown and Old Montreal, with almost unlimited exhibit space and a colourful stained glass exterior wall running the full length of the east side. The carpets and wall colours are pretty outlandish and the circles and squares theme almost a throw-back to the sixties.

Place Bonaventure is one of the original famous buildings from the Expo years situated right downtown, with its textured concrete walls and striking columns.

Loading facilities have been much improved at Place Bonaventure over the years, with in and out times being carefully planned and operated by the facility, effectively eliminating the long wait times that were previously an issue. The Hilton Bonaventure is perched on top of Place Bonaventure and is renowned for the year-round outdoor swimming pool and the same interesting textured concrete.

Each convention centre has hotels close by and many are accessible through Montreal's famous Underground City.

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Shopping is a sport in downtown Montreal The Marriott Château Champlain (affectionately known as The Cheese Grater) is home to the famous Caf’ Conc’, a beautifully preserved cabaret theatre, perfect for Moulin Rouge theming. Their recently renovated 36th Floor wraps around the central elevators, providing a hollow square walk-through reception area, ideal for themed food stations in each of the four areas. The famous Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth on René Lévesque Boulevard towers over the Via Rail station.

Delta Centre Ville directly faces Place Bonaventure on University Avenue, and is just a stone’s throw from the Palais des Congrès. The Delta has the only revolving restaurant in the city.

For smaller meetings or for incentive events, try any of the fabulous boutique properties in Old Montreal.

Nelligan’s, Hôtel Place d’Armes, XIX Siècle and the St. James Hotel are just a few of the must-sees, with high ceilings, full windows and original architectural features.

The Ritz Carlton is still arguably the most famous hotel in the city, and while it can profess to being the only Ritz Carlton in Canada for a short while longer, the Montreal property will always have an unsurpassed reputation for exquisite cuisine, impeccable service and one of the most beautiful ballrooms in the country, the famous Oval Ballroom.

There is potential just about anywhere in Montreal to hold an event and new venues pop up almost daily.

Those in the know (and with the right contacts) love to use one of the several beautiful armoury buildings, where the Officers’ Mess offers a perfect backdrop for anything from a Board meeting to an elegant fashion show, formal dinner or cocktail reception. Several private clubs have also opened their doors to meeting planners, without necessarily having to purchase a membership or knowing someone who has one. Most of the city’s museums are in the downtown core, with wonderful event space, and the man-made St. Helen’s and Notre-Dame Islands are home to the Grand Prix, the Casino and the Old Fort Museum.

Montreal is the perfect central point from which to branch out on daily excursions, giving the planner who brings groups regularly to the city a variety of options from which to draw new ideas. The Laurentians, the Eastern Townships and the U.S. border are all only 40 minutes from downtown, depending on traffic. The surrounding regions all offer countless year-round outdoor activities to suit just about any budget. Golf courses in Montreal include some of the best in the country, both private and public and many can be reached in a matter of minutes.

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Since Montreal is an island, water sports, tours, fishing and sea-planing are all exciting possibilities.

If your group prefers to stay in the city, there is Mount Royal, which is tantamount to the landscape rising in the middle of the city, topped with a gorgeous chalet available to rent. Fantastic and virtually panoramic views create the perfect event backdrop.

Shopping is a sport in downtown Montreal, with Ogilvy and Holt Renfrew being the uncontested two Hall of Famers and Simons, an exclusively Quebec chain, taking a well-earned third place. Outlet malls are available on the West Island, in Bromont and St. Sauveur. The famous Chabanel district is closed on Saturdays and the fur district on de Maisonneuve Boulevard is virtually extinct, which is somewhat ironic.

A city where food is king There is no question that food is a major draw when choosing Montreal as a destination. Restaurants number in the thousands and are way too numerous to mention in detail, however it is likely that just about every cuisine on the planet has representation somewhere in Montreal, with a price to suit any wallet. Quebec has a bring-your-own-wine licensing law which can positively impact tighter budgets when choosing restaurants.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not essential to speak French to visit Montreal, although it is appreciated when the effort is made to use even basic French.

However it really helps to have even one member of your team who can speak French effectively with Montrealers who may not have fluent English (immigrants to Montreal are taught French rather than English when they arrive, so may have little English to work with. Excursions outside the city can sometimes prove a little more challenging without French and it is also useful to have a native Montrealer on the team, who tends to know the non-tourist spots).

With all of the above information, it is easy to see why planners might have a hard time deciding what to do in Montreal in the time allotted. Everything is within easy walking distance in the city and there is a plethora of activities to entice groups away as the mood strikes.

As for that one descriptive word, I figured it out for myself – it’s Montreal!

Jyl Ashton Cunningham CMP is a meeting planner and freelance writer based in Oakville, Ontario. Jyl is fluently bilingual and an expert on Montreal having lived there for 20 years prior to marrying an Ontario-based firefighter. Jyl can be reached at info@jaacevents.com and welcomes your feedback on her articles.

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Book reviews Humor works at work

BY LEO GERVAIS

heories abound about how to make employees more productive. At the heart of all these theories are two basic approaches: the carrot or the stick – motivation by a potential reward or a potential punishment.

I personally have seen companies do everything from hand out employee manuals designed to lay down the law of productivity and why it is important (stick) to provide better bonuses for higher achievers (carrot). We all know that event planning is stressful, productivity is important and that we spend a lot of time (probably too much) working. With that in mind, two books I recommend touch on a better way to work – with humour.

In Fun is Good, Mike Veeck (with Pete Williams) explains how to make work fun and create a culture of creativity. His Fun is Good philosophy does not throw out any Protestant work ethic you may have learned (and probably need to unlearn). Veeck’s basic premise is if people are having fun, it will have a trickle-down effect and affect everything from employee attitudes to customer service. His experience as the president and part-owner of several successful minor league baseball teams help illustrate the method he espouses to make sure you and your company ooze the Fun is Good philosophy. What I liked about this book is the fact that the basic tenet can be applied to almost anyone who wants to improve their working environment.

Another book in a similar vein is Humor Works by Dr. John Morreall.

He is a philosophy professor who

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uses many anecdotes to illustrate the link between humor and creativity, risk-taking and effective communication. There are many exercises in the book that will help you develop this link, and one of the best is part of exercise 10-1. The question reads: “Think of something you consider an urgent problem. Now imagine that you have just won the lottery for $10 million. What does that problem look like now?”

Through simple exercises, Morreall gets us to perform what is called a paradigm shift. Paradigms are mental maps of the way we perceive things. Too often, these maps are created through trying circumstances so our maps are flawed and represent a very narrow view of reality. When people say “Try to see the bright side” they are unconsciously telling you to shift your paradigm. Morreall spent almost two decades researching humor and its effect on people, so there is a “science” to his thinking. But at the core, his main focus is to get people to look at any situation in a different way and laugh. And he quotes Mark Twain who said that laughter springs from suffering.

Sounds like Twain might have been a meeting planner.

Book: Fun is Good Authors: Mike Veeck & Pete Williams Publisher: Rodale, 2005 ISBN: 1-59486-152-8 Price on Chapters.ca: $22.40 Book: Humor Works Author: John Morreall, Ph.D Publisher: HRD Press, 1997 ISBN: 0-87425-400-0 Price on Chapters.ca: $19.47 May 07

D AT E B O O K Upcoming Events May 16-20 National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners, Spring Conference, Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel, Niagara Falls, New York. Contact: (202) 628-3952, www.ncbmp.

June 7-9 Association for Convention Operations Management, ACOM University, Westin Casuarina Las Vegas Hotel, Las Vegas, Nev. Contact: (609) 799-3712, www.acomonline.org.

July 18-20 Destination Marketing Association International, Annual Convention, David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh, Pa. Contact: (202) 296-7888, www.iacvb.org.

July 22-25 National Business Travel Association, International Convention and Exposition, Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, Boston, Mass. Contact: (703) 684-0836, www.nbta.org.

July 28-31 Meeting Professionals International, World Education Congress, Montreal, Que. Contact: (972) 702-3000, www.mpiweb.org.

Aug. 16-18 ISES Eventworld 2007, Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel, Montreal, Que. Contact: (312) 321-6853, www.ises.com.

Have an event? E-mail us at info@theplanner.ca.

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Web sites of

interest

Learning to do www.5min.com So many of us are visual people, and we like to actually do something to learn it. The next best thing is watching someone else do it. This is the premise of this website, the Life Videopedia. It collects brief clips that demonstrate how to do things. The videos are all under five minutes and are classified into general categories like business, food and sports. The videos are provided by ordinary people and everyone is welcome to contribute – everyone is an expert about something.

Throwing out the perfect pitch www.15secondpitch.com This great site will help you refine a business pitch into a 15-second spiel you can use to sell yourself. The pitch wizard has five steps, and you must fill out the information in those steps to craft your pitch. They also have a paid section with career coaching services that includes a pitch refinement section.

Be your own boss www.freelancewitch.com There are plenty of people who do not work 9-to-5 jobs. These freelancers are lucky people in many ways and this website can help them develop their careers. It is basically a blog and community that exists to bring freelancers together to share tips and ideas. The site is regularly updated by a trio of freelancers who offer relevant and amusing tips on how to be a successful independent worker. This site is for both the freelancer and others looking to jump the corporate ship.

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Do you have a Web site you want to share with other planners?

Email us at info@theplanner.ca. For more great websites, check out www.theplanner.ca.

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Gotcha, too!

How planners can work effectively with exclusive and preferred suppliers and unionized venues

However there are still hotels and venues that continue to use exclusive or preferred suppliers, for a variety of reasons, some more valid than others. The planner is then left with three basic options: Select another venue, agree to the terms in full or negotiate a compromise.

Properties that cite non-compete clauses may do so for any of the following reasons. In each case, an option is given for how to work to mutual advantage for the best result.

BY JYL ASHTON CUNNINGHAM his article is a continuation of the Hidden Costs and Contract Negotiation articles in recent issues and is intended to educate and advise planners on options, red flags to watch for, as well as negotiating tips when dealing with unionized venues and those with preferred or exclusive suppliers.

Not too long ago, IMPACanada (Independent Meeting Planners Association of Canada) published an open letter to hotels, requesting that a clause be removed from contracts that would require planners to pay fees if they did not use the in-house exclusive AV supplier. The clause was duly moved in most cases as a result of the letter.

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Safety Venues that require the use of cherry pickers, rigging, installation near electrical wiring, pyrotechnics or other potential hazards have expert and licensed staff hired specifically to work in such conditions and will require using them exclusively. Such properties could include exhibit halls and theatres, race tracks, parks and zoos as well as most sports venues.

Attempting to negotiate the use of outside staff where safety is an issue could result in insurance cancellation or invalidation, as well as potential liability resulting from injury to inexperienced staff. It makes sense to agree completely with terms and conditions where safety is an issue and also to have a clause built into contracts that releases the planner and client (each named independently) from any damage or injury liability due to faulty work carried out by in-house suppliers.

Service Some venues will argue that service is compromised when outside vendors are used at their property.

This works both ways and it is up to the planner to decide whether it is more important to rely on the service of an AV or dĂŠcor company that they use on a regular basis, or accept that the in-house supplier can provide better service because they know the property better and have easy access to last-minute requirements.

In my experience, I would prefer to use any vendor that I am completely confident will deliver on their commitment, that can anticipate my requirements and will not spring surprises on me at the last minute.

When discussing sensitive or confidential issues at meetings, some clients only trust their own preferred vendors to be on site. As well, companies with branding that they use on a regular basis such as set design, will use a company that is prepared to store their materials and move them between venues as required.

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Working with a union...

One exception to the service rule might be when using a preferred or exclusive caterer, as kitchens may be off-limits to outside vendors, which also could be considered a safety issue.

up with a completely different vendor than anticipated.

Likewise, when a venue is still under construction, it is unreasonable to expect a client to agree to using exclusive vendors if they have not even been contracted.

Profit

Union environment

It is common knowledge that venues charge commission to preferred vendors to allow them into their premises. In exchange the vendor receives referrals and recommendations, as well as potentially more regular business. Commission can be as high as 50% in the case of an in-house AV company. The commission may also be shown as something called a Landmark Fee, usually between 15% to 20%, prevalent in Toronto, not as well known in other cities.

Either way, the client ultimately ends up paying, and the planner must do some careful number crunching to calculate the impact such fees have on a budget. Always ask about Landmark fees when using older and heritage venues – they can rarely be negotiated down or removed. When sending out an RFP, request that all fees related to penalties for using non-preferred vendors are clearly outlined in the response.

If a venue charges an AV company 50% commission to be exclusive, the chances are it will impact the final cost to the client as the company has to recoup operating and inventory expenses somehow. Any charge levied on the client by the venue for not using preferred suppliers is allegedly due to having to pay them to be on site anyway, should the client prefer to bring their own suppliers, as the in-house folks are the only ones allowed back-of-house. An effective way to negotiate is to offer to use some of the in-house labour while still being able to bring in outside vendor product, thereby reducing the penalty charges.

Always make sure you know who the preferred or exclusive suppliers are. Their names should be clearly stated in the contract and there should be a guarantee clause included that the named vendor will still be under contract at the time you actually hold your event.

Since so many contracts are negotiated several years in advance, it is possible that vendor contracts may expire with the property in the meantime, and you could end

This is the one area which is best left well alone in terms of trying to negotiate any other deal. Collective agreements are negotiated over months, sometimes years, and cover all personnel actions in a workplace.

This means that coffee and lunch breaks, use of tools, wearing of required safety equipment and making requests through the proper channels all have to be handled with the utmost care and respect towards the employees. To do otherwise may result in a high risk of potential labour dispute, downing of tools and even walk-outs which could be disastrous for an event.

Always connect with the foreman on site before doing anything, and act on his exclusive advice and recommendations. When something needs to be done, the foreman or his representative is the person who will make it happen.

In conclusion, planners are under increased pressure from all sides when negotiating supplier contracts.

The client naturally wants the best service for the lowest price and the venue needs to make a reasonable profit in order to stay in business. Perhaps if there was more transparency around the relationships, financial and otherwise, between venues and preferred/exclusive vendors, planners might be more receptive to using inhouse services. It is also up to the preferred and exclusive vendors to be competitive and negotiate better terms with venues, enabling them to still provide excellent service while being able to make money.

Many planners also feel that the higher cost of using in-house suppliers is justified by the convenience of having them close at hand. The key is to create a win-win situation for all concerned and ensure a successful event.

Always know who the preferred or exclusive supplier is.

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Jyl Ashton Cunningham CMP is an associate editor of The Planner and a conference and event planner based in Oakville, Ontario.

She can be reached at info@jaacevents.com and welcomes your comments on her articles.

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Hotel News

50/50 DEAL Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has teamed

HOTEL ROOMS GO HYPOALLERGENIC The nicely-made bed with chic beddings matched with elegant curtains, a beautiful carpet and a sweet scented aroma that fills your hotel room creates one first impression: cleanliness. But is it really clean?

The emergence of the hypoallergenic hotel room is here to offer you a truly clean room and settle your concerns about the “ick” factor. Pure Solutions NA, a company hired by the Premier Hotel in New York’s Times Square calls its Pure Room.

It is a seven-step process by which to cut down bacteria, dust, dust-mites and other possible irritants using tea tree oil, a natural antiseptic and disinfectant. This involves cleaning and treating the curtains, carpeting and air-conditioning units with an antimicrobial agent that attacks bacteria.

Other things being done to ensure a clean and allergy-friendly hotel room include replacing feather duvets to installing air purifiers, outfitting pillows and mattresses with liners that can help contain dust mites and swabbing phones and doorknobs with antibacterial agents.

Other hotel chains like the Hilton and the Millennium Hotels are testing the concept in a few hotels and could expand based on demand.

But is the demand there? In the first two months after the Fairmont Waterfront in Vancouver introduced a “featherless” floor in 2005, it was 87 percent full, the hotel said, compared with 70 percent occupancy in the hotel overall. The Hilton Chicago O’Hare Airport Hotel had so much demand for their two Enviro-Rooms created by Environmental Technology Solutions that it recently opened 11 more.

This trend is an addition to amenities such as flatscreen TVs and plush beds which have become the norm as hotels attempt to attract more clientele.

with Porter Airlines to offer travelers a new 50/50 offer that includes 50 percent off a second night at any one of Toronto’s Fairmont Royal York, Ottawa’s Fairmont Chateau Laurier or Montreal’s Fairmont Queen Elizabeth.

The deal also includes a $50 discount on a round-trip Porter Airlines flight.

Through June 30, travelers may book their stay at any of these hotels by calling 1-888-495-2127. Round-trip flights on Porter Airlines may be booked by calling 1-888-619-8622.

On the Web: www.fairmont.com/porter

MARRIOTT HAS WEAKER OUTLOOK After reporting a tripling of its first quarter profit, Marriott International Inc. has scaled back its full year growth forecast for revenue per available room, or revpar.

The company expects revpar to grow 6 per cent to 8 per cent in 2007, down from earlier estimates of 7 per cent to 9 per cent. They are taking a bit more “conservative outlook” for 2007, according to chief financial officer Arne Sorensen.

Industry analysts say this is their first real confirmation of a slowdown in the lodging industry.

THE TRIANGLE OF HOTEL SUCCESS According to HVS International, the success of any hotel or any organization for that matter is dependent on three issues termed the “Triangle for Hotel Marketing Success.”

Upkeep of the property is very primary because that is what guests base their impressions of the hotel on.

This begins from the entrance through the lobby, the corridors and into the guestrooms. A well-maintained, clean and up-to-date facility is crucial to their experience, which could result in referrals.

Just like the look of a hotel matters so does the service it provides. Standard Operating Procedures must be in 357 guestrooms and suites 18 meeting and function rooms that can accommodate up to 350 people Connected to the Montreal Convention Centre

Inquire about Meeting Options™ reward program... extras that you deserve.

360 St-Antoine Street West Montreal, Quebec H2Y 3X4 514-987-9900 www.montreal.intercontinental.com 22

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Hotel News place and updated and training needs to be continuous in order to keep that image of top-notch service consistent.

The third key is to be proactive in your marketing. In other words, a strong, well-trained and proactive sales team and marketing effort are imperative to properly executing the marketing plan and generating the demand to increase average rates and revenue. Use the available technology: websites, links, booking engines, and so on.

Without strong direction, management and motivating leadership, any organization including a hotel is doomed to fail.

STARWOOD 2007 FIRST QUARTER PROFIT EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS Starwood Hotels &

Overall, the cost for a hotel room in the UK was 17 percent more than in 2005, with the priciest city being Bath at the end of 2006. On average, a hotel there charges £114 per room for one night. Also at the end of last year, the price for a room in London totaled £107 a night, an increase of 22 percent.

MARRIOTT GETS TOP MARKS FOR DIVERSITY IN LODGING INDUSTRY Marriott International Inc. has once again made it onto DiversityInc magazine’s list of “Top 50 Companies for Diversity,” getting the highest rank out of all other companies in the lodging industry.

DiversityInc uses over 200 detailed questions that look at CEO commitment, unbiased retention, communications programs, and supplier diversity and diversity training to compile the list.

Already in the year, Marriott was chosen by the National Association for Female Executives as one of the ‘Top 10 Companies for Executive Women,’ was on Essence magazine’s list of ‘Top 50 Places to Work’ for African-American women, and was listed as one of the ‘Top 50 Corporations for Supplier Diversity’ by Hispanic Trends magazine.

Resorts Worldwide Inc. reported a first quarter profit increase of $122 million for 2007. In 2006, revenues derived from continuing operations were just $77 million in the first quarter.

Starwood CEO Bruce W. Duncan credits the quality of the company’s services and staff for the 1st quarter success and says he expects the growing trend to continue in the future.

NEW HOTELS IN CANADA A few new hotels will be

UK HAS HIGHEST EUROPEAN HOTEL PRICES A report by Hotels.com discovered that

springing up in Montreal in the coming months. In early summer, a new Candlewood Suites and an Embassy Suites will open. In addition, a new five star Hazelton Hotel will open in mid-July in Toronto’s Yorkville area.

around the world, the price for hotel rooms increased by 15 percent, with one of the most costly areas being the UK. When 2006 came to a close, on average the cost of a UK hotel room was £98, the highest in the continent, being greater than the £83 European average.

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HE RODE MADLY OFF IN ALL DIRECTIONS. STEPHEN LEACOCK

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A few suggestions

In this new section, A few suggestions, we will be providing you with ideas suggested by readers for you and your family as well as follow-up items based on past articles.

Family fare A new website and bespoke travel service launched in London aims to make visiting the city with kids a great experience. Vancouver-born Belinda Fisher created www.doublescoop.co.uk which offers a weekly report on the activities for families – from a great puppet show to child-friendly restaurants or an upcoming warehouse sale of kids’ designer clothing. And for a fee, Fisher will organize a holiday itinerary for families travelling to London that will please both young and old.

Follow-up

Venue Winners!

Our Eastern Canada Venues with a View winner is Lorelei Lutter from Cantest Ltd., Whitby, Ont. who will be awarded with a round-trip ticket on Porter Airlines to/from Toronto, Montreal or Ottawa.

Our Western Canada winner is Dawn van der Helm from Calgary Real Estate Board Co-operative Ltd., Calgary, Alta. who will receive a two-night gift certificate redeemable at any Canadian Coast Hotels & Resorts property.

Congratulations and thank you all for participating!

ANSWER EASY SUDOKU FROM PAGE 10

ANSWER MEDIUM SUDOKU FROM PAGE 10

A reader was so enthusiastic about our February Resolution Edition, she suggested a book for those who are serious about making changes: “This Year I Will...

How to finally change a habit, keep a resolution, or make a dream come true” by M.J. Ryan.

The book outlines why it is so hard to change or keep a resolution and provides concrete ways to achieve all of your goals.

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Join IMPAC and reap the benefits

BY RUBY ZINSMEISTER

can’t stress enough how important it is to get involved in whatever industry you’re working.

Whether you are just starting out or you are a veteran, we have so much that we can learn from one another.

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I started out in the event industry almost five years ago, straight out of school and right into owning my own business. I had no idea what I was getting into. All I had was an education and a dream.

I attended an industry conference where I listened to a panel talk about the different industry associations, IMPACanada being one on the Panel. I listened carefully to the member benefits and also heard that there was a reduced fee for students.

I went right to the tradeshow booth to find out more about the membership. I ended up joining that day.

Not having worked for a hotel, ad agency or marketing firm before, by volunteering as an executive on the board of directors for three years is how I got my experience. As VP of Programs, I was able to plan about 20 educational meetings, Holiday Fundraising Silent Auction & dinner as well as work with the conference committee. I couldn’t pay for a better education.

There are many specialties within our membership i.e. sponsorship, registration services, children’s programming, entertainment, incentives, education…By working on IMPACanada events with other volunteers we get a chance to learn each others style and from time to time we call on each other to partner on various contracts.

IMPACanada members are your friends From the mouths of our members, IMPACanada is: • An association that offers training and education specifically targeting the independent planner. It is also a fantastic organization that provided opportunities to network with industry peers who are willing to share their knowledge and expertise • IMPACanada helps you as a planner grow your business • IMPACanada brings together independent planners where we share ideas, concerns and discuss meeting planning issues while forming strong friendships with colleagues.

• IMPACanada fosters relations between members even though technically we are competitors If there is one thing I want to leave you with it is this: IMPACanada members are your friends and with your friends you pay compliments where compliments are due, you share your success and your disappointments.

By recognizing this, you’ll find your membership to be priceless.

Ruby Zinsmeister is an Event Specialist with 1st Impressions and is the IMPACanada VP of Communications. She can be reached at: zinsmeister@sympatico.ca.

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Industry News New look for Banff >

With utilities that are 100-years-old and narrow sidewalks, Banff Avenue is being shut down for eight months to undergo some renovations. Although local businesses suffer for now, the outcome will result in additional trees and tourist drop-off points for the area.

To compensate for lost revenue, the town has invested $1-million into things like hiring 30 more staff members to properly direct tourists and spa giveaways. Those wanting to indulge in a little window-shopping can still do so and parking can now be found at Caribou Street alongside Bow River.

Passports viewed as a border barrier The mandatory obligation of a passport to travel through plane into the United States is being considered a likely reason why less Canadians and Americans traveled between both countries this past February.

The average amount of flight travelers dropped 2.5 percent for that month when compared to February 2006 Meanwhile, traveling to both countries via car in the same month has dropped as well. Overnight car traveling into Canada decreased by 6 percent. Only 902,000 Americans came by car into the country for a day, a drop of 5.9 percent, and the lowest total since 1972.

From January, Canadians also traveled less into the United States by 7.9 percent.

Majority of traveling stress occurs in the air: Survey

While in the past it used to be easier to book rooms in tier-one cities during peak season, hotels are now increasingly stepping away from the negotiating table if the prices SMERF groups demand are too low for their liking.

But even though rates for rooms have gone up in the past year from 10 to 20 percent, hotels are open to providing reduced prices should a group choose to hold their event at a time when there’s a relatively empty schedule or in the course of a value season.

What’s also important for planners is to realize the buying power their group has and use it to their advantage to try to obtain concessions hotels don’t usually offer.

Reconsidering the location of the event can also save a SMERF group some money. Lower rates and more rooms are usually abundant in second and third tier destinations.

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F.Y.I. Up your energy through exercise >

Exercise, watching what you drink, and wearing the right pair of shoes can make a difference in your health.

These are some tips to keep you feeling well: Have you ever felt tired during the day, wishing you had more energy? A little exercise can go a long way. In a recent analysis of 70 studies by researchers from the University of Georgia, it was found that a regular exercise program lessens fatigue and boosts energy levels in comparison to a less active lifestyle.

Shoes too small to fill?

A poll of 1,006 adults conducted by Orbitz Travel Survey found that the most problems people run into while traveling happens in airports.

Flight delays were tagged as the biggest problem by 40 percent, while dealing with airport security came in second at 21 percent. Hotel amenities and cleanliness received 15 percent and renting cars got 9 percent.

Meanwhile, 21 percent who travel by plane said the latest security measures at airports like taking off shoes haven’t hindered their overall travel time.

When looking at security since 9/11, 42 percent said they feel safer and 46 percent said while some improvements could be made they did feel more secure.

As we age, the size and composition of our feet change. Over the years they become wider, flatter, or longer, and tend to loose padding. These problems can be exacerbated when the shoe you’ve got on is too tight. Nearly one out of four people are walking around in footwear that isn’t the right size, so check properly to see if the shoe really does fit!

SMERF groups get more with flexibility Booking rooms for huge events can be affordable for SMERF (social, military, education, religious, and fraternal) groups if they’re flexible with their planning.

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Alsace: A tiny region produces big wines

BY VANESSA BAUDRY he name Alsace not only refers to the small French administrative region that is located 500 km east of Paris, but more importantly to an exceptional wine-producing district that extends from the Vosges Mountains to the Rhine Valley. This tiny region offers quality wines at affordable prices. What better way to pique the interest of wine lovers from around the globe? The success of this region is Alsatian wine, which is born of the land, the traditions and the expertise of its grape producers.

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Alsace and wine The history of Alsace dates back to the Roman conquest. Following alternating periods of prosperity and decline, this wine-producing district attained prominence following WW II. Since then, Alsatian wines have continued to receive accolades and have enhanced their enviable reputation. The success of these wines can be attributed in part to the soil and the climate. The earth is rich and varied, and the mixture of soil types and the unique climate (sunny, hot, dry, and sheltered from the humid westerly winds by the Vosges Mountains) conspire to produce a scented and delicate aroma. Alsatian wine producers strive to preserve the quality of the grape, and to prioritize safety, hygiene, and the environment.

They are also constantly seeking to improve production methods in order to ensure the excellent character and reputation of their wines.

An affordable wine that pleases the palate

CIVA

A region that stands apart for its organic agriculture The organicultural tradition in Alsace dates back many years, and it continues to evolve. This evolution has undoubtedly been enhanced by the proximity of the Alsace region to Germany, which is the cradle of organic agriculture. The tradition of organic agriculture is well suited to the soil in the region, which is rich in minerals and does not use fertilizer or chemical products. All operations are environmentally friendly.

Note: A bio-wine fair is held in May of every year in Rouffach. For more information, contact the Rouffach Tourism Office, at 03 89 78 53 15, or visit their website: www.alsace-info.com.

Alsatian wine in Canada

Alsatian wines are available at a variety of prices, which allows them to target a broad spectrum of consumers. The most seductive aspect of Alsatian wines is that they provide a perfect complement to your food, whether they are served with an appetizer, an everyday meal, a gourmet repast or even an exotic feast. They are the perfect accompaniment for meat and for seafood.

The Conseil Interprofessionnel des Vins d’Alsace (CIVA) says: “The wines of Alsace know no borders when it comes to gourmet cuisine.”

There are seven varieties of wine attributed to the region of Alsace: Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir, Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, Muscat Rosé à Petits Grains, Sylvaner, Riesling, Pinot Gris and true Pinot Blanc.

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The Alsace region produces wine for every occasion.

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Canada does not play a major role in the Alsatian production market, but it did account for 12, 300 hl, or 4.9 per cent of Alsatian exports in 2006. This figure makes perfect sense, clearly illustrating the fact that this tiny region in France represents a significant attraction to Francophones from around the world!

On the lookout for Alsatian wines The Alsatian Wine Road (Route des Vins d’Alsace) is a unique route that has been in existence for 50 years, and that has helped to enhance the reputation of Alsatian wines. The Wine Road traverses more than 170 kilometres from the north to the south of Alsace, running through enchanting landscapes where plains and hills are melded in perfection, and encompassing

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The busiest time for wine events in Alsace is between April and October simple, traditional, and hospitable villages. The marked winery paths allow you to journey to the heart of the vineyards in order to discover the work of wine producers and the beauty of their land. A tour of the Wine Road would not be complete without sampling wines in the cellars of the wine producers: a subtle delight for the taste buds; rich with the delicate, fresh and light flavours of Alsatian wines.

The region of Alsace is a hub of activity between April and October, with a constant variety of organized events (celebrations of wine, wine fairs, walking tours centred on the theme of gastronomy and wine, etc.) aimed at promoting the region in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere that highlights the local expertise.

Consult the calendar of events on the Conseil Interprofessionnel des Vins d’Alsace website: www.civa.fr.

There is also a wine school in Colmar, whose objective is to instruct and educate professionals and wine enthusiasts, but first and foremost, to convey a love of wine. For more information, contact Ms. Laurence Wipff, at 03 89 20 16 20.

The love of wine will be your guide through this region, whose charm is inexorably linked to its many vineyards. Whether the purpose of your visit is professional or personal, nothing could be more pleasant than discovering this tiny paradise, where life’s many pleasures join together in harmony.

••• Vanessa Baudry is a freelancer living in France. She is a regular contributor to The Planner.

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Save Trees!

Please let us know if this publication is a duplicate or an unwanted piece of mail.

If you have moved or are planning to move, please call us at (514) 849-6841 ext. 315 or send us an E-mail with your new coordinates to: info@theplanner.ca.

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The NBTA is a must for travel pros

BY TANYA RACZ As a 17-year veteran of the Canadian travel industry, I came to realize early on in my career that the only constant in our industry is change.

As professionals we are expected by our companies, our clients, and ourselves to adapt to change constantly and positively with very little resources; human and/or financial. Change can be overwhelming, and it is virtually impossible to be the expert at everything when change is so rapid and frequent. There is hope! Industry associations ensure that you do not have to go it alone in the face of change.

For the last few years, many corporate travel departments and company meeting planners have been called upon to consolidate their meeting functions and take a more strategic approach to the management of their company’s meetings; A.K.A. process change. This is where an industry association membership benefits both buyers and suppliers. We provide the arenas (netsmart learning, on-line chats, face-to-face educational events, reports and studies) necessary for professionals to share with each other their successes, failures, and form industry best-practices. “Knowledge is power” and that power benefits you and your change strategies.

The National Business Travel Association (NBTA) Canada is such an association. We provide our members with the tools they need to do their ever-changing job in the most efficient, cost effective manner possible.

One of these tools is our Strategic Meetings Management Program (SMMP). NBTA’s Groups & Meetings Committee comprised of corporate meeting buyer and supplier professionals developed the SMMP handbook for their fellow members a few years ago.

This publication was the first of its kind for the indus-

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try and has since assisted hundreds of professionals develop and implement successful meetings management programs for their companies. Regardless of your company’s meeting size and scope, this tool will help you implement a program in less time, with less financial investment, and with a greater opportunity for success than if you had started from scratch.

I have been and continue to be a firm believer that associations benefit the corporate travel and meeting management industry as a whole. They are cost-effective, educational, interactive, productive, and provide time-sensitive portals of the information you need to know. Remember, change is the only constant in our industry. Equip yourself today for the change of tomorrow by joining an association. I am confident you will start realizing the benefits of membership immediately.

The National Business Travel Association is the premiere professional travel management association in Canada. As the Canadian arm of NBTA, the world’s leading business travel association, NBTA-Canada is the Canadian source for critical information on the business travel industry. For nearly 40 years, NBTA has dedicated itself to the professional development of its members through advocacy, education and training, and networking opportunities. NBTA represents over 2,700 corporate and government travel managers, meeting professionals, and travel service providers, who collectively manage and direct more than $170 billion of expenditures within the business travel industry. For more on NBTA-Canada, visit www.nbtacanada.org.

Tanya Racz, CCTE, is the President of the National Business Travel Association (NBTA) Canada. She can be reached at: tracz@nbta.org.

PLANNER

May 07